Illumination device for automobile floodlight and automobile floodlight

Abstract

To provide an irradiation device which can generate sign light light distribution in addition to front area light distribution or low beam light distribution, and which can generate desired light intensity as the whole sign light light distribution.SOLUTION: An irradiation device (1) for vehicle projector which generates light distribution (LV) having a brightness and darkness boundary (HDG) includes a light source (10), a light transmission body (100), a light incident element (101), and a projection device (500). The projection device (500) has a focal surface (P500) and an optical axis line (X). On a boundary surface (106) on the lower side of the light transmission body (100), first and second optical out couple structure (210) is provided, it is constructed so that light is emitted, and outside the light transmission body (100), the light propagates to the projection device (500), and without re-entering the light transmission body (100), the light hits the projection device (500) and an image is formed by the projection device (500).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Related Application Description) This application claims priority from European Patent Application No. 23205834.7 (DAS-Code: 1EBA), filed October 25, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to an illumination device for a motor vehicle floodlight for generating a light distribution with a light-dark boundary, the illumination device comprising: at least one light source; a light-transmitting body (or light guide); At least one light incident element for injecting (incidentally coupling) light emitted by at least one light source into the light-transmitting body; a projection device, the projection device having a focal plane and an optical axis; Light from at least one light source enters the optically transparent body through the light entrance element, and this light propagates within the optically transparent body as a first light beam to the light exit surface of the optically transparent body, the optically transparent body being defined by an upper boundary surface and a lower boundary surface located opposite the upper boundary surface, and at least a portion of the light rays of the first light beam that hit the upper boundary surface and / or the lower boundary surface are totally reflected one or more times at the respective boundary surfaces, the optically transparent body being defined by a light exit surface, and the light rays that are totally reflected one or more times at at least one boundary surface and exit the optically transparent body via the light exit surface, as well as the light rays that are incident from the light source, propagate through the optically transparent body to the light exit surface without reflection, and exit the optically transparent body via the light exit surface, are modified by the light guide into a second light beam, and the second light beam is imaged by the projection device as the light distribution to be generated.

[0003] The light exit surface is located, for example, on the opposite side to the light entrance element.

[0004] The invention further relates to a vehicle floodlight comprising at least one such illumination device. [Background technology]

[0005] From the prior art, the above-mentioned illumination devices are known, in which, by modifying the light transmitting body, the light entrance element or the projection device, it is possible to generate a sign light distribution in addition to a frontal light distribution (near-field light distribution) or a low beam light distribution using at least one light source.

[0006] In known solutions, the generated sign light distribution is relatively uniform. However, in order to achieve a legally predetermined light intensity value at a specified point of the light distribution, the light intensity of the entire sign light distribution must often be relatively high. However, this results in light intensity values ​​at other points that are higher than desired or even legally permitted. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 115183196 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2018 / 023141 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2023 / 038010 [Patent Document 4] European Patent Application Publication No. 4067734 [Patent Document 5] Patent Publication No. 2017-084556 [Patent Document 6] Patent Publication No. 2014-203587 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an illumination device that can generate a sign light distribution in addition to a front light distribution or a low beam light distribution and that overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0009] Furthermore, the object of the present invention may be to generate a sign light distribution that takes into account the characteristics of regulations in the United States, such as the characteristics of regulations of FMVSS108. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The object is achieved in the illumination device as described above by providing at least one first optical outcoupling structure and at least one second optical outcoupling structure adjacent to or within the lower boundary surface, the optical outcoupling structures being configured such that a first beam of light impinging on the optical outcoupling structure exits the optically transparent body, the light exiting the at least one first optical outcoupling structure propagates outside the optically transparent body in the form of a third beam towards the projection device, and the light exiting the at least one second optical outcoupling structure propagates outside the optically transparent body in the form of a third beam towards the projection device. The light propagates outside the optically transparent body to the projection device in the form of a fourth light beam, and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure is located farther from the focal plane than the at least one first optical outcoupling structure, and the third and fourth light beams hit the projection device directly, i.e., without first re-entering the optically transparent body, and are projected by the projection device as sign light beams onto a predetermined area located above the light-dark boundary, together forming, for example, one sign light distribution, and both sign light beams are imaged in different partial areas of the area located above the light-dark boundary.

[0011] That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, 1. An illumination device for an automotive floodlight for generating a light distribution having a light-dark boundary, the illumination device comprising: at least one light source; A light-transmitting body; At least one light incident element for directing light emitted by the at least one light source into the light-transmitting body; a projection device, the projection device having a focal plane and an optical axis; light from the at least one light source enters the light-transmitting body through the light-incident element, and the light propagates as a first light beam within the light-transmitting body to a light-exiting surface of the light-transmitting body; The optically transparent body is defined by an upper boundary surface and a lower boundary surface located on the opposite side of the upper boundary surface, at least a portion of the light rays of the first light bundle striking the upper boundary surface and / or the lower boundary surface is totally reflected at the respective boundary surface one or more times; The light-transmitting body is defined by a light exit surface, Furthermore, a light ray that has been totally reflected one or more times at at least one of the boundary surfaces and that exits from the light-transmitting body via the light exit surface, and a light ray that is incident from the light source, propagates through the light-transmitting body to the light exit surface without being reflected, and that exits from the light-transmitting body via the light exit surface, are modified by the light-transmitting body into a second light beam, and the second light beam is imaged by the projection device as the light distribution to be generated, at least one first optical outcoupling structure and at least one second optical outcoupling structure are disposed adjacent to or within the lower boundary surface; the optical outcoupling structure is configured so that light of the first light beam striking the optical outcoupling structure exits from the optically transparent body; the light exiting the at least one first optical outcoupling structure propagates outside the optically transparent body to the projection device in the form of a third beam; and the light emitted from the at least one second optical outcoupling structure propagates to the projection device in the form of a fourth beam outside the optically transparent body; the at least one second optical outcoupling structure is located farther from the focal plane than the at least one first optical outcoupling structure; Furthermore, the third light beam and the fourth light beam directly hit the projection device, i.e., without being previously re-incident on the light-transmitting body, and are projected by the projection device as sign light beams onto a predetermined area located above the light-dark boundary, and together form one sign light distribution, and both of the sign light beams are imaged in different partial areas of the area located above the light-dark boundary. An illumination device is provided, characterized in that: Further, according to a second aspect of the present invention, There is provided a vehicle floodlight comprising at least one of the illumination devices. 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

[0012] The present invention can have the following configurations. (Form 1) 1. An illumination device for an automotive floodlight for generating a light distribution having a light-dark boundary, the illumination device comprising: at least one light source; A light-transmitting body; At least one light incident element for directing light emitted by the at least one light source into the light-transmitting body; a projection device, the projection device having a focal plane and an optical axis; light from the at least one light source enters the light-transmitting body through the light-incident element, and the light propagates as a first light beam within the light-transmitting body to a light-exiting surface of the light-transmitting body; The optically transparent body is defined by an upper boundary surface and a lower boundary surface located on the opposite side of the upper boundary surface, at least a portion of the light rays of the first light bundle striking the upper boundary surface and / or the lower boundary surface is totally reflected at the respective boundary surface one or more times; The light-transmitting body is defined by a light exit surface, Furthermore, a light ray that has been totally reflected one or more times at at least one of the boundary surfaces and that exits from the light-transmitting body via the light exit surface, and a light ray that is incident from the light source, passes through the light-transmitting body without being reflected, and propagates to the light exit surface and exits from the light-transmitting body via the light exit surface, are modified by the light guide body into a second light flux, and the second light flux is imaged by the projection device as the light distribution to be generated, at least one first optical outcoupling structure and at least one second optical outcoupling structure are disposed adjacent to or within the lower boundary surface; the optical outcoupling structure is configured so that light of the first light beam striking the optical outcoupling structure exits from the optically transparent body; the light exiting the at least one first optical outcoupling structure propagates outside the optically transparent body to the projection device in the form of a third beam; and the light emitted from the at least one second optical outcoupling structure propagates to the projection device in the form of a fourth beam outside the optically transparent body; the at least one second optical outcoupling structure is located farther from the focal plane than the at least one first optical outcoupling structure; Furthermore, the third light beam and the fourth light beam hit the projection device directly, i.e., without being previously re-entered into the light-transmitting body, and are projected by the projection device as sign light beams onto a predetermined area located above the light-dark boundary, together forming, for example, one sign light distribution, and both of the sign light beams are imaged in different partial areas of the area located above the light-dark boundary. (Form 2) In the illumination device described in form 1, it is preferable that the third light beam and the fourth light beam impinge on the projection device in different regions of the projection device, particularly below the optical axis of the projection device, and pass through the projection device, and these regions of the projection device project the third light beam and the fourth light beam as sign light beams onto the region located above the light-dark boundary, to form, for example, one sign light distribution, and both of the sign light beams are imaged in different partial regions of the region located above the light-dark boundary. (Form 3) In the illumination device described in form 1 or 2, it is preferable that the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure are configured and arranged so that the partial areas onto which the outgoing sign light beams are projected by the projection device partially overlap, or are at least partially adjacent to each other, or are spaced apart from each other, and so that the third beam and the fourth beam impinge on the projection device or on predetermined areas of the projection device. (Form 4) In the irradiation device described in any one of Forms 1 to 3, it is preferable that the at least one first optical outcoupling structure is configured as a protrusion on the light-transmitting body or as a depression within the light-transmitting body, and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure is configured as a protrusion on the light-transmitting body or as a depression within the light-transmitting body. (Form 5) In the irradiation device described in any one of forms 1 to 4, it is preferable that the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure each extend over a specified horizontal extension range in a direction horizontal to the optical axis of the projection device, and that the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure each extend over a specified vertical extension range approximately in the direction of the optical axis of the projection device. (Form 6) In the irradiation device described in form 5, it is preferable that the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure have lateral extension ranges of different sizes, and preferably the at least one first outcoupling structure that is closer to the light exit surface has a smaller lateral extension range than the at least one second outcoupling structure. (Form 7) In the illumination device described in form 5 or 6, at least one of the optical outcoupling structures extends symmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the projection device in terms of its lateral extension range, and preferably, one of the first optical outcoupling structure or the second optical outcoupling structure extends symmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the projection device, and the other of the second optical outcoupling structure or the first optical outcoupling structure extends asymmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the projection device. (Form 8) In the illumination device described in any one of forms 5 to 7, it is preferable that the lateral direction in which the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and / or the at least one second optical outcoupling structure extends extends substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the projection device, and preferably extends substantially horizontally. (Form 9) In the irradiation device described in any one of forms 1 to 8, it is preferable that the at least one first outcouple structure and / or the at least one second outcouple structure are configured in the form of an outcouple prism or have an outcouple prism. (Form 10) In the illumination device described in form 9, it is preferable that each of the outcoupling prisms has an exit surface, and the exit surface is configured and inclined so that the exiting light beam is directed toward an area of ​​the projection device that projects the third light beam and the fourth light beam as sign light light beams onto the area located above the light-dark boundary. (Form 11) In the illumination device according to aspect 9 or 10, at least one or both of the exit surfaces are curved in the horizontal direction, i.e. in a horizontal cross section, and in particular concavely curved, and preferably the horizontal cutting curve obtained by cutting such a curved exit surface with a horizontal plane has the shape of a partial circle or follows the shape of the Petzval surface of the projection device. (Form 12) In the irradiation device according to any one of embodiments 9 to 11, at least one, or preferably both, of the exit surfaces is preferably not curved in the vertical direction, ie, in a vertical cross section. (Form 13) In the irradiation device according to any one of embodiments 9 to 12, it is preferable that the one or more exit surfaces are tilted so that the light beam passing through or emitting through the one or more exit surfaces extends perpendicular to the one or more exit surfaces. (Form 14) In the irradiation device described in any one of embodiments 1 to 13, it is preferable that the light-transmitting body has an aperture edge, the aperture edge is disposed between the light incident element and the projection device in the light propagation direction, and the aperture edge is imaged as the light-dark boundary within the light distribution. (Form 15) In the illumination device described in any one of forms 1 to 14, the light incident element shapes the light emitted from the light source and incident into the light incident element into the first light beam, and preferably, this light beam is directed toward a specified area of ​​the aperture edge. (Form 16) In the illumination device described in any one of the first to fifteenth embodiments, the aperture edge is curved in the horizontal direction, in particular concavely curved, and preferably follows the focal line of the projection device at the aperture edge, and preferably the aperture edge is located in the Petzval plane of the projection device. (Form 17) In the illumination device according to any one of the first to sixteenth embodiments, the light exit surface is formed to have a concave shape in the horizontal direction, and preferably follows the shape of the Petzval surface of the projection device. (Form 18) In the irradiation device according to any one of the first to seventeenth embodiments, the light exit surface is preferably formed in a convex shape in the vertical direction. (Form 19) An automobile floodlight comprising at least one irradiation device according to any one of the first to eighteenth aspects.

[0013] Preferably, only one first optical outcoupling structure and only one second optical outcoupling structure are provided.

[0014] The at least one first optical outcoupling structure and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure each extend over a defined horizontal extension range in a transverse direction (left-right direction) relative to the optical axis of the projection device, and in this case the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure each extend over a defined vertical extension range approximately in the direction of the optical axis of the projection device.

[0015] The configuration according to the present invention generates two different sign light beams that illuminate different areas within the light distribution and together form the sign light distribution. By appropriately configuring the different optical outcoupling structures, for example with respect to the size or width of each optical outcoupling structure, the amount of light in each sign light beam and thus the light intensity within the light distribution can be influenced. Due to different spacings of the optical outcoupling structures relative to the focal or Petzval plane of the projection device, light rays emerging from more distant optical outcoupling structures are imaged less sharply or “blurred” in the light image, resulting in more uniform illumination within the light image, whereas light rays from optical outcoupling structures located closer to the Petzval or focal plane are imaged more sharply or more focused, thereby illuminating a smaller area or areas more brightly.

[0016] Advantageous configurations of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0017] Preferably, the third and fourth light beams impinge on and pass through the projection device in different regions of the projection device, particularly below the optical axis of the projection device, and these regions of the projection device project the third and fourth light beams as sign light beams onto a predetermined region located above the light-dark boundary, forming, for example, one sign light distribution, and both sign light beams are imaged onto different partial regions of the region located above the light-dark boundary.

[0018] In this case, the optical axis of the projection device is also the optical axis of the irradiation device.

[0019] Advantageously, the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure are configured and arranged such that the partial areas onto which the outgoing sign light beams are projected by the projection device partially overlap or are at least partially adjacent to one another or spaced apart from one another, and the third and fourth beams impinge on the projection device or on predetermined areas of the projection device.

[0020] The at least one first optical outcoupling structure may be configured as a protrusion on the light-transmitting body or as a depression in the light-transmitting body, and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure may be configured as a protrusion on the light-transmitting body or as a depression in the light-transmitting body.

[0021] Furthermore, the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure have lateral extension ranges of different sizes, and preferably, the at least one first optical outcoupling structure closer to the light exit surface has a smaller lateral extension range than the at least one second optical outcoupling structure.

[0022] In this way, the amount of light exiting these optical outcoupling structures can be controlled.

[0023] At least one of the optical outcoupling structures may extend symmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the projection device in terms of its lateral extension range, and in this case, preferably, one of the first optical outcoupling structure or the second optical outcoupling structure extends symmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the projection device, and the other of the second optical outcoupling structure or the first optical outcoupling structure extends asymmetrically with respect to the optical axis of the projection device.

[0024] A symmetrically arranged optical outcoupling structure provides a symmetrical illuminance distribution (irradiation intensity distribution) with respect to the vertical axis (VV axis) within the light image, whereas an asymmetrically arranged optical outcoupling structure produces an asymmetrical illuminance distribution with respect to the vertical axis. For example, in the United States, FMVSS 108 stipulates illuminance determined along lines 5-5 and 8-8 described in the regulation, where the positions of these lines are asymmetric with respect to the VV axis. By appropriately asymmetrically arranging an optical outcoupling structure, the required illuminance can be achieved even for such asymmetrically located lines or areas. A basic sign light distribution is symmetric with respect to its illuminance distribution and is achieved using a symmetrical optical outcoupling structure.

[0025] Preferably, the lateral direction in which the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and / or the at least one second optical outcoupling structure extends can extend substantially perpendicular to the first light propagation direction and / or can extend substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the projection device, and preferably can extend substantially horizontally.

[0026] Furthermore, the at least one first optical outcoupling structure and / or the at least one second optical outcoupling structure may be configured in the form of an outcoupling prism (outcoupling prism) or may comprise an outcoupling prism.

[0027] In this case, each outcoupling prism has an exit surface, and the exit surface can be configured and inclined so that the exiting light beam is directed toward an area of ​​a projection device that projects the third light beam and the fourth light beam as sign light beams onto a predetermined area located above the light-dark boundary.

[0028] For example, at least one or both exit surfaces may be curved, in particular concavely curved, in the horizontal direction, i.e. in a horizontal cross section, and preferably the horizontal cutting curve obtained by cutting such a curved exit surface with a horizontal plane has the shape of a partial circle or follows or corresponds to the shape of the Petzval surface of the projection device.

[0029] At least one, or preferably both, exit surfaces may be uncurved in the vertical direction, ie in vertical cross section.

[0030] Preferably, the exit surface or surfaces can be tilted so that the light beams passing through or emitting through the exit surface or surfaces extend perpendicular to the exit surface or surfaces.

[0031] This reduces losses and reduces chromatic aberration.

[0032] In this case, by suitable configuration of the light entrance elements, the fan of parallel light rays can be shaped so as to ensure that the light rays strike the exit surface at an angle of 90° when viewed across the lateral extent of the exit surface.

[0033] More preferably, the light-transmitting body has a diaphragm edge that is arranged between the light incident element and the projection device in the light propagation direction, and in this case, the diaphragm edge can be imaged as a light-dark boundary in the light distribution.

[0034] The diaphragm edge serves to modify the first light beam into the second light beam emerging from the optically transparent body so that the light distribution generated by the projection device has a light-dark boundary. The shape of the HD boundary (light-dark boundary) in the light distribution is determined by the shape of the diaphragm edge. The extension of the diaphragm edge defines the boundary rays that barely contribute to the light distribution.

[0035] The diaphragm edge is formed by the light exit surface and the lower boundary surface, i.e. both surfaces meet at the diaphragm edge.

[0036] Furthermore, the light entrance element can shape the light emitted from the light source and incident into the light entrance element into a first light beam, and in this case, this light beam is preferably directed towards a predetermined area, in particular a predetermined area above the diaphragm edge, preferably a predetermined area just above the diaphragm edge.

[0037] In this case, this region is located or extends in particular immediately above the diaphragm edge.

[0038] Preferably, the diaphragm edge is curved in the horizontal direction, in particular concavely curved, and preferably follows or corresponds to the focal line of the projection device, with the diaphragm edge preferably lying in or approximately lying in the Petzval plane of the projection device.

[0039] With regard to the statement that the diaphragm edge lies in the Petzval plane, it should be noted that, to be precise, the relationship is as follows: the projection device has a focal point which lies on the optical axis of the projection device, and the Petzval or focal plane includes this focal point, as do the focal lines which extend through this focal point and lie in the Petzval plane.

[0040] The diaphragm edge is usually not located exactly in the Petzval plane or in the focal point, but at a (slight) distance above it. Typically, the light-dark boundary is slightly below the horizontal 0°-0° line in the optical image, or below the horizon, usually at an angle of 0.573°. To achieve this in the optical image, the diaphragm edge is located vertically slightly above the optical axis of the projection device or above the focal point, and in practice is often located only a few tenths of a millimeter away.

[0041] Furthermore, the light exit surface is formed concave in the horizontal direction and preferably follows or corresponds to the shape of the Petzval surface of the projection device.

[0042] The light exit surface can also be formed convex in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the light exit surface is tilted starting from the diaphragm edge and away from the Petzval surface. The generated light distribution is somewhat blurred, i.e., the generated light distribution is more uniform and the height of the projection device can be reduced.

[0043] For example, the at least one light source and / or the sign light source may each include one or more light emitting elements, such as one or more LEDs.

[0044] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0045] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing main components of an illumination device for an automobile floodlight according to an embodiment of the present invention, as viewed obliquely from below; [Figure 2] 2 shows a perspective view of the light transmitting body of the illumination device of FIG. 1 for beam shaping, viewed obliquely from below towards the outcoupling structure according to the invention; FIG. [Figure 3] 2 shows a vertical cross section of the illumination device of FIG. 1 taken along a vertical plane extending through the optical axis of the projection device. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 shows a vertical cross section of an alternative illumination device. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing details of the first outcoupling structure as viewed from below. [Figure 6] 6 is a plan view showing details of the first outcoupling structure of FIG. 5, viewed from below. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a front view of a vertical cross section perpendicular to the optical axis passing through the optically transparent body in the region of the second outcoupling structure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B show schematic diagrams of exemplary light distributions in the form of low beam and sign light distributions; [Figure 10] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary depiction of one light distribution as a result of an optical engineering simulation. [Example]

[0046] Figures 1, 2 and 3 show an illumination device 1 for an automotive floodlight to generate a light distribution LV having a light-dark boundary HDG, with the light distribution that can be generated using this illumination device 1 being diagrammatically illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, with Figure 10 showing one light distribution as a result of a simulation using the illumination device 1 according to the invention.

[0047] Figure 4 shows an alternative embodiment of an illumination device 1 according to the invention. The same reference numerals as those shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3 refer to the same elements.

[0048] 5 to 8 show details of the illumination device 1, where these details apply to both embodiments.

[0049] The illumination device 1 according to Figures 1, 2, 3 or 4 comprises a light source 10, a light-transmitting body (or light guide) 100, a light-inlet element 101 for coupling the light emitted by the light source 10 into the light-transmitting body 100, and a projection device 500, the projection device 500 having a focal plane or Petzval surface P500. The projection device 500 is typically realized in the form of a projection lens, but can also have a more complex structure in the form of a lens system. The Petzval surface P500 also comprises the focal line of the projection device 500, on which the focus of the projection device 500 is located in a horizontal plane.

[0050] For example, the light-transmitting body 100 and the light-incident element 101 are integrally (as one member) preferably made of the same material. The projection device 500 is preferably constructed separately from these elements 100 and 101. The light-transmitting body 100, the light-incident element 101, and the projection device 500 can be made of the same material.

[0051] The transparent, light-transmitting (translucent) material from which the objects 100, 101, 500 can be made has a refractive index greater than that of air. This material includes, for example, PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) or PC (polycarbonate), and is particularly preferably made of PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) or PC (polycarbonate). However, the objects can also be made of glass material, in particular inorganic glass material.

[0052] Light S10 (FIGS. 3 and 4) emitted by the light source 10 via the light entrance element 101 is incident into the light entrance body 100 via the light entrance surface 101a of the light entrance body 100. The light entrance element 101 can have the form of, for example, an imaging or non-imaging collimator optical system. The light entrance surface 101a is suitably shaped, and the flat light entrance surface 101a shown or suggested in the drawings is merely one of known possibilities for the shape of the light entrance surface 101a.

[0053] The light source 10, or at least one light source 10 in general, is for example one or more light emitting elements, for example one or more LEDs, comprised by the light source 10, or at least one light source 10, respectively.

[0054] The optically transparent body 100 is defined, inter alia, by an upper boundary surface 105, a lower boundary surface 106 located opposite the upper boundary surface 105, and light exit surfaces 102, 102″ located opposite the light entrance surface 101a.

[0055] The incident light from the light source 10 propagates within the optically transparent body 100 substantially in the direction of the light exit surface 102 as a first light beam S1, and at this time, the light incident element 101 shapes the light emitted from the light source 10 and incident into the optically transparent body 100 into the first light beam S1.

[0056] At this time, part of the incident light proceeds without deflection, and the other part proceeds as a first light beam S1 within the optically transparent body 100 in the direction of the light exit surface 102 based on total reflection at the boundary surfaces, particularly based on total reflection at the upper boundary surface 105 and / or the lower boundary surface 106.

[0057] The light-transmitting body 100 has an aperture edge 104, which is arranged between the light incident element 101 and the projection device 500 in the light propagation direction, and in this case, the aperture edge 104 is imaged as a light-dark boundary HDG within the light distribution LV (see Figures 9 and 10).

[0058] In this case, the diaphragm edge 104 serves to modify the first luminous flux S1 into the second luminous flux S2 emitted from the optically transparent body 100 so that the light distribution LV generated from the light rays of the second luminous flux S2 by the projection device 500 has a light-dark boundary HDG. The shape of the light-dark boundary HDG in the light distribution LV is determined by the shape and contour of the diaphragm edge 104.

[0059] The diaphragm edge 104 is formed by the light exit surface 102 and the lower boundary surface 106 , ie both surfaces 102 , 106 meet at the diaphragm edge 104 .

[0060] In this case, the light entrance element 101 and the light-transmitting body 100 are configured so that the first light beam S1 is directed toward the light exit surface 102, but preferably directed primarily toward a predetermined area P0, in particular a predetermined area above the aperture edge 104, preferably a predetermined area immediately above the aperture edge 104, thereby obtaining a clear light-dark boundary HDG within the light distribution LV with high illuminance below the light-dark boundary HDG.

[0061] Preferably, as shown, the diaphragm edge 104 is curved in the horizontal direction, in particular concavely curved, and preferably follows the focal line F500 of the projection device 500 at the diaphragm edge 104.

[0062] Preferably, as already explained in the previous paragraph, the diaphragm edge 104 is located in the Petzval plane P500 of the projection device 500, or can be located approximately in the Petzval plane P500.

[0063] 1, 2 and 3, the light exit surface 102 can be formed convex in the vertical direction, so that in the illustrated embodiment the light exit surface 102 is inclined towards the light source 10, starting from the diaphragm edge 104 and away from the Petzval plane P500. The generated light distribution LV is somewhat blurred, i.e. the generated light distribution is more uniform and the height of the projection device 500 can be reduced.

[0064] Alternatively (see FIG. 4), the light exit surface 102 ″ may be formed concave in the horizontal direction, preferably following or corresponding to the shape of the Petzval surface P 500 of the projection device 500 .

[0065] Specifically, the light rays propagating toward the light exit surfaces 102, 102″ and exiting the light-transmitting body 100 through the light exit surfaces 102, 102″ are modified by the light-transmitting body (light guide) 100, particularly by the aperture edge 104, into a second light beam S2, and the second light beam S2 is imaged by the projection device 500 as a light distribution LV having a light-dark boundary HDG.

[0066] 1, 2, 3 and 4, a first optical outcoupling structure 210 and a second optical outcoupling structure 220 are provided adjacent to or within the lower boundary surface 106. Each optical outcoupling structure 210, 220 extends over a defined lateral extension Q210, Q220, respectively, transversely (left-right) to the optical axis X of the projection device 500 or illumination device 1. Each optical outcoupling structure 210, 220 extends over a defined longitudinal extension L210, L220, respectively, approximately in the direction of the optical axis X.

[0067] For the sake of clarity, it is noted here that essentially two or more first optical outcoupling structures 210 and two or more second optical outcoupling structures 220 can also be provided, with these preferably being arranged side by side (multiple first structures side by side and multiple second structures side by side).

[0068] The optical outcoupling structures 210 and 220 are configured so that light of the first light beam S1 that strikes the optical outcoupling structures 210 and 220 exits the optically transparent body 100 .

[0069] The light exiting the first optical outcoupling structure 210 propagates outside the optically transparent body 100 to the projection device 500 in the form of a third beam S3.

[0070] The light exiting the second optical outcoupling structure 220 propagates to the projection device 500 at a fourth point outside the optically transparent body 100 in the form of a beam S4.

[0071] In this case, the second optical outcoupling structure 220 is farther away from the focal plane P500 than the first optical outcoupling structure 210.

[0072] In this case, this arrangement is configured so that the third light beam S3 and the fourth light beam S4 hit the projection device 500 directly, i.e., without first re-entering the optically transparent body 100, and are projected by the projection device 500 as sign light beams S3' and S4' onto a predetermined area B located above the light-dark boundary HDG, where they together form a single sign light distribution SV, and in this case, both sign light beams S3' and S4' are imaged onto different partial areas B1 and B2 of the area B located above the light-dark boundary HDG.

[0073] Light S4 coming from the second optical outcoupling structure 220, which is farther away from the focal plane P500, produces a blurred or less sharp image due to its (strongly) defocused position, resulting in approximately the same illumination intensity and better uniformity within the generated light distribution SV4 compared to light ray S3 from the first optical outcoupling structure 210, which is arranged closer to the focal plane P500.

[0074] The light distribution SV4 produced by the second optical outcoupling structure 220, which is further away from the focal plane P500, forms a kind of "basic" sign light distribution, which for example meets the requirements for sign light distributions of the ECE (Economic Commission for Europe). The other light distribution SV3 constitutes a kind of "additional" sign light distribution, which can be used to meet further requirements for sign light that go beyond the ECE, and / or the "basic" sign light distribution SV4 can be modified, for example, so that certain required limits on the resulting illuminance are achieved, but which, together with the additional sign light distribution SV3, can nevertheless produce a particularly legally or regulatory compliant sign light distribution SV.

[0075] Preferably, the third light beam S3 and the fourth light beam S4 impinge on the projection device 500 in different regions P1 and P2 of the projection device 500, particularly below the optical axis X of the projection device 500, and pass through the projection device 500. At this time, these regions P1 and P2 of the projection device 500 project the third light beam S3 and the fourth light beam S4 as sign light beams S3' and S4' onto a predetermined region B located above the light-dark boundary HDG, thereby forming, for example, one sign light distribution SV. At this time, both sign light beams S3' and S4' are focused on different partial regions B1 and B2 of the region B located above the light-dark boundary HDG, as described above.

[0076] The first optical outcoupling structure(s) 210 and the second optical outcoupling structure 220 are preferably configured and arranged so that the partial areas B1, B2 onto which the outgoing sign light beams S3', S4' are projected by the projection device 500 partially overlap, or are adjacent to each other at least in part, or are spaced apart from each other, and so that the third beam S3 and the fourth beam S4 impinge on the projection device 500 or on predetermined areas P1, P2 of the projection device 500.

[0077] 10 shows an example simulation result. Subregion B1 is located immediately above the light-dark boundary HDG, shifted to the right with respect to the vertical 0° axis, and relatively concentrated. Subregion B2, located above it, extends symmetrically with respect to the vertical 0° axis and is significantly less concentrated than subregion B1, i.e., extends over a significantly wider angular range in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The upper edge of subregion B1 merges with the lower edge of subregion B2. The overall sign light distribution SV is obtained by the partial sign light distributions SV3 and SV4, which are imaged onto subregions B1 and B2 and can be described as SV = SV(S3')U SV(S4'), where U is the union.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment (which is the same in Figures 3 and 4), the first optical outcoupling structure 210 is configured as a raised portion on the optically transparent body 100, specifically as a raised portion on the lower surface portion (lower boundary surface) 106, and similarly the second optical outcoupling structure 220 is configured as a raised portion on the optically transparent body 100, again as a raised portion on the lower surface portion (lower boundary surface) 106.

[0079] 9 and 10 (having distinctly different horizontal extensions) is achieved by having the first optical outcoupling structure 210 and the second optical outcoupling structure 220 have different lateral extensions Q210, Q220, as shown in FIG. 2, where the first optical outcoupling structure 210, which is closer to the light output surface 102, has a smaller lateral extension Q210 than the second optical outcoupling structure 220. In this manner, the amount of light output from the outcoupling structures can be controlled. Additionally, the second optical outcoupling structure 220 is disposed symmetrically with respect to the optical axis X, whereas the first optical outcoupling structure 210 is offset to the left with respect to the optical axis X, preferably completely to the left of the optical axis X.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the second optical outcoupling structure 220 extends continuously from left to right across substantially the entire width of the optically transparent body 100 or light guide 100, with equal extent on both sides of the optical axis X.

[0081] Regardless of the actual number of the first optical outcoupling structures 210 and the second optical outcoupling structures 220 and their arrangement with respect to the optical axis X, preferably the (partial) sign light distribution SV4 of the light beam S4 is symmetrical with respect to the vertical 0°-0° line (VV line) in the light image, whereas preferably the (partial) sign light distribution SV3 of the light beam S3 is asymmetrical with respect to the vertical 0°-0° line (VV line, vertical center line at H=0°) in the light image and will be shifted to the right in the case of a floodlight for right-hand traffic and will be shifted to the left in the case of a floodlight for left-hand traffic.

[0082] Returning again to Figures 2 and 5 to 8, it can be seen that preferably the lateral direction in which the first optical outcoupling structure 210 and the second optical outcoupling structure 220 extend extends substantially perpendicular to the optical axis X of the projection device 500 and also extends substantially horizontally.

[0083] Looking at the outcoupling structures 210, 220 in detail, they are preferably configured, for example, in the form of an outcoupling prism, as shown in the figure. The outcoupling prisms have exit surfaces 210a, 220a, respectively, which are tilted so that the exiting light beams S3, S4 are directed toward regions P1, P2 of the projection device 500, which projects the third and fourth light beams S3, S4 as sign light beams S3′, S4′ onto a predetermined region B located above the light-dark boundary HDG.

[0084] Unlike the prism type, the exit surfaces 210a, 220a can be curved, particularly concavely curved, in the horizontal direction, i.e., in a horizontal cross section. Preferably, the horizontal section curve obtained by cutting the curved exit surfaces 210a, 220a using a horizontal plane has the shape of a partial circle or follows or corresponds to the shape of the Petzval surface of the projection device 500. In this regard, FIG. 6 shows a selected cutting curve in a horizontal cutting plane, where the cutting curve represents a partial circle with center M and radius R. In different horizontal cutting planes, the cutting curves can have the same radius, and the centers can overlap in a (vertical) line. However, the radii in different horizontal cutting planes can also be different, particularly increasing as one moves from the outermost horizontal cutting plane toward the optically transparent body 100. In this case, the centers are preferably again located on one vertical line, and the part circles in the different horizontal cutting planes are therefore "concentric" part circles, so to speak.

[0085] More preferably, both exit surfaces 210a, 220a may be non-curved in the vertical direction, i.e., in a vertical cross section, so that the cutting curve obtained by cutting the exit surfaces 210a, 220a with a vertical plane is a straight line.

[0086] More advantageously, the exit surfaces 210a, 220a can be tilted at an angle relative to the optical axis X so that the passing or exiting light beams S3, S4 extend perpendicular to the flat exit surfaces 210a, 220a.

[0087] Finally, reference is made once again to Figure 9, which shows the difference between the measurement points of illuminance for the regulations for sign light distribution according to FMVSS 108 and the regulations for ECE spaces.

[0088] Within the diagonal dashed line area where lines 5-5 and 8-8 are located, there are differences regarding the required or maximum permissible illuminance in sign light distribution, and in particular, under the regulations of FMVSS 108, the illuminance along both of these lines must be higher than required by ECE regulations.

[0089] 10, as already mentioned above, one actual light distribution using outcoupling structures 210, 220 according to the present invention is shown. Sub-area B2 is illuminated evenly from left to right via the "rear" outcoupling structure 220. The outcoupling structure 210 attached on one side to the left illuminates the asymmetric right sub-area B1, compensating for differences between US and European regulations.

[0090] 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]

[0091] 1 Irradiation device 10 light source 100 Light transmitter / light guide 101 Light entrance element 101a Light incidence surface 102 Light exit surface 102” light exit surface 104 Aperture Edge 105 Upper boundary surface 106 Lower boundary surface 210 first optical outcoupling structure 210a Output surface 220 Second Optical Outcoupling Structure 220a Exit surface 500 Projection device X optical axis P500 focal plane / Petzval plane F500 focal line P0 area P1 area P2 area S10 Light Source S1 First beam S2 Second luminous flux S3 Third luminous flux S3' Sign Light Luminous Flux S4 Fourth beam S4' Sign Light Luminous Flux Q210 Lateral extension range Q220 Lateral extension range L210 Vertical extension range L220 Vertical extension range M Center of the partial circle R Radius of the partial circle LV light distribution SV sign light distribution SV3 Partial Sign Light Distribution SV4 Partial sign light distribution HDG light / dark boundary B area B1 subregion B2 partial area

Claims

1. An illumination device for an automotive floodlight for generating a light distribution (LV) having a light-dark boundary (HDG), the illumination device (1) comprising: At least one light source (10); A light-transmitting body (100), At least one light incidence element (101) for injecting light emitted by the at least one light source (10) into the optically transparent body (100); a projection device (500), the projection device (500) having a focal plane (P500) and an optical axis (X); Light (S10) from the at least one light source (10) enters the light-transmitting body (100) through the light-incident element (101), and this light propagates within the light-transmitting body (100) to a light-exiting surface (102) of the light-transmitting body (100) as a first light beam (S1); The optically transparent body (100) is defined by an upper boundary surface (105) and a lower boundary surface (106) located on the opposite side of the upper boundary surface (105), at least a portion of the rays of the first light bundle (S1) striking the upper boundary surface (105) and / or the lower boundary surface (106) is totally reflected at the respective boundary surface (105, 106) one or more times; The light-transmitting body (100) is defined by a light-emitting surface (102, 102"); Furthermore, a light ray that has been totally reflected one or more times at at least one of the boundary surfaces (105, 106) and that exits the light-transmitting body (100) through the light exit surface (102, 102″), as well as a light ray that is incident from the light source (10), passes through the light-transmitting body (100) without reflection, and propagates to the light exit surface (102, 102″) and exits the light-transmitting body (100) through the light exit surface (102, 102″), are modified by the light-transmitting body (100) into a second light beam (S2), and the second light beam (S2) is imaged by the projection device (500) as the light distribution (LV) to be generated; at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) and at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) are provided adjacent to or within the lower boundary surface (106); the optical outcoupling structures (210, 220) are configured so that light of the first light beam (S1) that strikes the optical outcoupling structures (210, 220) exits the optically transparent body (100); The light exiting the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) propagates outside the optically transparent body (100) to the projection device (500) in the form of a third light beam (S3); and the light exiting the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) propagates outside the optically transparent body (100) to the projection device (500) in the form of a fourth beam (S4); the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) is located farther away from the focal plane (P500) than the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210); Furthermore, the third light beam (S3) and the fourth light beam (S4) directly hit the projection device (500), i.e., without being previously re-incident on the light-transmitting body (100), and are projected by the projection device (500) as sign light beams (S3', S4') onto a predetermined area (B) located above the light-dark boundary (HDG), and together form one sign light distribution (SV), and both of the sign light beams (S3', S4') are imaged onto different partial areas (B1, B2) of the area (B) located above the light-dark boundary (HDG). An irradiation device characterized by:

2. the third light beam (S3) and the fourth light beam (S4) hit the projection device (500) in different regions (P1, P2) of the projection device (500) and pass through the projection device (500), and these regions of the projection device (500) project the third light beam (S3) and the fourth light beam (S4) as sign light beams (S3', S4') onto the region (B) located above the light-dark boundary (HDG) to form one sign light distribution (SV), and both of the sign light beams (S3', S4') are imaged onto different partial regions (B1, B2) of the region (B) located above the light-dark boundary (HDG); The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

3. the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) are configured and arranged such that the third light beam (S3) and the fourth light beam (S4) impinge on the projection device (500) or on predetermined areas (P1, P2) of the projection device (500) such that the partial areas (B1, B2) onto which the outgoing sign light beams (S3', S4') are projected by the projection device (500) partially overlap, or are at least partially adjacent to each other, or are spaced apart from each other; The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

4. the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) is configured as a protrusion on the optically transparent body (100) or as a depression within the optically transparent body (100), and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) is configured as a protrusion on the optically transparent body (100) or as a depression within the optically transparent body (100); The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

5. the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) each extend over a defined lateral extension range (Q210, Q220) transversely to the optical axis (X) of the projection device (500), and the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) each extend over a defined longitudinal extension range (L210, L220) approximately in the direction of the optical axis (X) of the projection device (500); The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

6. the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) and the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) have lateral extensions (Q210, Q220) of different magnitudes; The irradiation device according to claim 5 ,

7. the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) closer to the light exit surface (102) has a smaller lateral extension (Q210) than the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220); 7. The illumination device according to claim 6,

8. at least one of the optical outcoupling structures (210, 220) extends symmetrically with respect to its lateral extent with respect to the optical axis (X) of the projection device (500); The irradiation device according to claim 5 ,

9. one of the first optical outcoupling structure or the second optical outcoupling structure (220) extends symmetrically and the other of the second optical outcoupling structure or the first optical outcoupling structure (210) extends asymmetrically with respect to the optical axis (X) of the projection device (500); 9. The illumination device according to claim 8,

10. a lateral direction in which the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) and / or the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) extend substantially perpendicular to the optical axis (X) of the projection device (500) and also extends substantially horizontally; The irradiation device according to claim 5 ,

11. the at least one first optical outcoupling structure (210) and / or the at least one second optical outcoupling structure (220) are configured in the form of an outcoupling prism or comprise an outcoupling prism; The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

12. Each of the outcoupling prisms has an exit surface (210a, 220a), and the exit surfaces (210a, 220a) are configured and inclined so that the exiting light beams (S3, S4) are directed toward an area of ​​the projection device (500) that projects the third light beam (S3) and the fourth light beam (S4) as sign light light beams (S3', S4') onto the area (B) located above the light-dark boundary (HDG); 12. The illumination device according to claim 11,

13. In the outcoupling prism, at least one or both of the exit surfaces (210a, 220a) are curved or concavely curved in the horizontal direction, i.e., in a horizontal cross section; 12. The illumination device according to claim 11,

14. the horizontal cutting curve obtained by cutting such a curved exit surface (210a, 220a) with a horizontal plane has the shape of a partial circle or follows the shape of the focal plane (P500) of the projection device (500); 14. The illumination device according to claim 13,

15. In the outcoupling prism, at least one exit surface (210a, 220a), or both exit surfaces (210a, 220a), are not curved in the vertical direction, i.e., in the vertical cross section; 12. The illumination device according to claim 11,

16. In the outcoupling prism, one or more exit surfaces (210a, 220a) are inclined so that light beams (S3, S4) passing through or exiting from the exit surface (210a, 220a) or the exit surfaces (210a, 220a) extend perpendicular to the exit surface (210a, 220a) or the exit surfaces (210a, 220a); 12. The illumination device according to claim 11,

17. the light-transmitting body (100) has a diaphragm edge (104), the diaphragm edge (104) is disposed between the light entrance element (101) and the projection device (500) in the light propagation direction, and the diaphragm edge (104) is imaged as the light-dark boundary (HDG) within the light distribution (LV); The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

18. The light entrance element (101) shapes the light emitted from the light source (10) and incident into the light entrance element (101) into the first light beam (S1), and the light beam (S1) is directed toward a predetermined area (P0) of the diaphragm edge (104); The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

19. The diaphragm edge (104) is curved or concavely curved in the horizontal direction; The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

20. the diaphragm edge (104) follows a focal line (F500) of the projection device (500) at the diaphragm edge (104), and the diaphragm edge (104) is located within the focal plane (P500) of the projection device (500); 20. The illumination device according to claim 19,

21. the light exit surface (102″) is formed concave in the horizontal direction and follows the shape of the focal plane (P500) of the projection device (500); The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

22. The light exit surface (102) is formed to be convex in the vertical direction; The illumination device according to claim 1 ,

23. A vehicle floodlight comprising at least one illumination device according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

Images