Light-emitting module that reflects the illuminated surface of the concentrator

Abstract

To provide a light module for a vehicle that can form a light beam with a cutoff and that is compact and economical to produce.SOLUTION: A light module 2, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprises: a light source 4; a collector 6 with a reflective surface 6.2 configured to collect and reflect light rays emitted by the light source 4 into a light beam along an optical axis 8 of the module; and an optical system 10 configured to project the light beam. The collector 6 is configured such that portions of the light rays of the light beam are parallel to the optical axis 8 or have an angle of inclination α less than or equal to 25° in a vertical plane with respect to the optical axis. The optical system 10 is configured to form an image of the reflective surface 6.2 of the collector 6.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of luminous lighting and signalling, and more particularly to the field of motor vehicles. [Background technology]

[0002] It is a common practice to create a cutoff illumination beam using one or more optical modules with a benders. Such optical modules traditionally include a concentrator with a reflective surface of revolution with an elliptical profile. The concentrator is cap-shaped within a half-space bounded by a horizontal plane. A light source of the light-emitting diode type, essentially a point source, is located at the first focal point of the reflective surface and emits light toward the surface into the half-space. The light rays are then reflected in a converging manner toward the second focal point of the reflective surface. Another (generally flat) reflective surface with a cutoff edge at the same location as the second focal point ensures upward reflection of the light rays that do not pass exactly through the second focal point. These light rays are then refracted toward the bottom of the illumination beam by a thick lens. This reflective surface is commonly called a "bender" because it "bends" the light rays (which would otherwise form the upper part of the illumination beam) toward the top of the projection lens.

[0003] Such optical modules have the disadvantage that high precision is required for the positioning of the benders and the cut-off edges. Thus, the projection lens must be thick due to its short focal length, which increases its weight and makes it difficult to manufacture (especially in terms of sink marks). In addition, the concentrator has a considerable height, which occupies a considerable volume in the height direction. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is to alleviate at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above, and more particularly to provide a compact and more economically manufactured optical module capable of shaping a light beam that may involve cutoff.

[0005] The subject of the present invention is an optical module, in particular for motor vehicles, comprising a light source capable of emitting light rays, a collector having a reflective surface configured to collect and reflect the light rays emitted by the light source into a light beam along the optical axis of the module, and an optical system configured to project the light beam, the optical system being notable in that it is configured to form an image of the reflective surface of the collector.

[0006] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the collector is configured so that the rays of the light beam reflected from the rear part of the reflecting surface of the collector are parallel to the optical axis or have an inclination angle α of less than or equal to 25°, preferably less than or equal to 10° in the vertical plane relative to the optical axis. Advantageously, these rays represent at least 30%, preferably 40%, more preferably 50%, more preferably even 80% of the rays of the light beam. Advantageously, the rear part of the reflecting surface is the rear half of the surface.

[0007] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the light source is configured to emit light rays in a main direction between 65° and 115° to the optical axis, preferably perpendicular to the optical axis. According to a variant, the light source may be associated with a refractive element of the lens type in order to adjust the distribution of light over the reflecting surface of the collector, in particular to create variations in light intensity.

[0008] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the reflecting surface of the collector has a parabolic or elliptical profile. It is preferably a surface of revolution of said profile, the revolution being about an axis advantageously parallel to the optical axis. According to a variant, the reflecting surface is a free-form, sweeping or asymmetric surface. The surface may comprise several portions.

[0009] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the optical system has a focal point located on the optical axis at the same level as the light source, in front of or behind said light source with respect to the general propagation direction of the light beam along the optical axis.

[0010] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the module further comprises a screen located in front of the light source with respect to the general propagation direction of the light beam along the optical axis and facing said surface, so as to collect the light rays emitted forward by the light source and not reflected by the reflective surface of the collector.

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

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

[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the optical system comprises a reflector (advantageously on the optical axis).

[0014] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the reflector of the optical system is a first reflector, and the optical system comprises a second reflector located behind the first reflector and at a distance from the optical axis relative to the general propagation direction of the light beam, the first reflector being configured to reflect the light beam towards the second reflector, and the second reflector being configured to reflect the beam reflected by the first reflector in a direction approximately parallel to the optical axis.

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

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

[0017] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the reflective surface of the collector is concave and has a front edge and a rear edge relative to the general propagation direction of the light beam, the front edge bounding a lower part of the formed light image and the rear edge bounding an upper part of the image when the module is oriented in the mounting position.

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

[0019] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the reflective surface of the collector has two lateral edges which are extensions of the rear edge on either side of the optical axis and which lie in a horizontal plane when the module is oriented in the mounting position.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the rear edge lies in a horizontal plane, and the light image formed has a corresponding flat horizontal cut-off.

[0021] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the rear edge has a curve, and the light image formed has a corresponding curved horizontal cut-off.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the reflecting surface of the collector has two lateral edges on either side of the optical axis, which lateral edges intersect with the rear edge, and the formed light image has corresponding lateral cutoffs.

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

[0024] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, for at least one of the optical modules, the reflective surface of the collector has two lateral edges on either side of the optical axis that form an extension of the rear edge, the lateral edges being in a horizontal plane when the module is oriented in the mounting position, the rear edge being in a horizontal plane, and the light image formed has a corresponding flat horizontal cut-off. And for at least another of the modules, the reflective surface of the collector has two lateral edges on either side of the optical axis that form an extension of the rear edge, the lateral edges being in a horizontal plane when the module is oriented in the mounting position, the rear edge being curved, and the light image formed has a corresponding curved horizontal cut-off. The illumination beam has a curved horizontal cut-off.

[0025] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the number of at least one optical module amounts to at least two, the optical system of each of said modules being common.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the common optical system has a focal point located behind the collectors of at least two optical modules relative to the general propagation direction of the light beam.

[0027] The inventive solution is advantageous in that it allows for the projection of a sharp light image by imaging the illuminated reflective surface of the collector, thus achieving a similarly sharp cut-off at the edge of said surface. More particularly, the edge of the reflective surface (particularly the rear edge) has a size (e.g., between 15 and 20 mm) that is significantly larger than the cut-off edge (e.g., 5 mm) of optical modules with prior art benders. This makes the optical module substantially less sensitive to positioning tolerances between optical elements (e.g., of the light source relative to the collector) and therefore substantially more tolerant to unstable conditions.

[0028] Furthermore, the fact that we are under the Gaussian condition, i.e. the light rays are not too inclined with respect to the optical axis and are not far from said axis, has the consequence that the lens forming the projection system can be a thin lens (for example less than 6 mm thick), allowing it to be manufactured in a single plastic injection.

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

[0030] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic representation of an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a concentrator in the optical module of FIG. 1; [Figure 3] 2 is a view of the inner surface of the concentrator in the optical module of FIG. 1, viewed from the outside along the optical axis. [Figure 4] 2 is a diagrammatic representation of the light image of the illumination beam produced by the optical module of FIG. 1; [Figure 5] 5 is a schematic representation of an optical module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a concentrator in the optical module of FIG. 5; [Figure 7] 6 is a view of the inner surface of the concentrator in the optical module of FIG. 5, viewed from the outside along the optical axis. [Figure 8]6 is a diagrammatic representation of the light image of the illumination beam produced by the optical module of FIG. 5; [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a concentrator of an optical module according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a view of the inner surface of the concentrator in the optical module of FIG. 9, viewed from the outside along the optical axis. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagrammatic representation of the light image of the illumination beam produced by the optical module of FIG. 9; [Figure 12] 1 is a perspective representation of an optical device comprising an optical module according to the invention, according to a first embodiment of the invention; [Figure 13] 13 is a perspective view of the optical device of FIG. 12 from another direction. [Figure 14] 14A and 14B are schematic representations of the light images of the illumination beams produced by a module with a curved cutoff and a group of modules with a flat cutoff in the optical devices of FIGS. 12 and 13, respectively. [Figure 15] 14 is a diagrammatic representation of the light image in the optical device of FIGS. 12 and 13; [Figure 16] 4 is a perspective representation of an optical device comprising an optical module according to the invention, according to a second embodiment of the invention; [Figure 17] 17 is a perspective view of the optical device of FIG. 16 from another direction. [Figure 18] 18A and 18B are schematic representations of the light images of the illumination beams produced by a module with a curved cutoff and a group of modules with a flat cutoff in the optical devices of FIGS. 16 and 17, respectively. [Figure 19] 18 is a diagrammatic representation of the light image in the optical device of FIGS. 16 and 17; [Figure 20] 10 is a perspective representation of an optical device comprising an optical module according to the invention, according to a third embodiment of the invention; [Figure 21] 21 is a diagrammatic representation of the optical image in the optical device of FIG. 20; [Figure 22] 10 is a perspective representation of an optical device comprising an optical module according to the invention, according to a fourth embodiment of the invention; [Figure 23] 10 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a concentrator in an optical module according to the present invention; FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the optical module and its working principle. The optical module 2 essentially comprises a light source 4, a collector 6 capable of reflecting the light rays emitted by the light source to form a light beam along the optical axis 8 of the module, and a lens 10 for projecting said beam. Optical projection systems other than a projection lens are conceivable, in particular one or more reflecting mirrors (as in Figures 16 and 17).

[0033] The light source 4 is advantageously a semiconductor light source, in particular a light-emitting diode, which emits light rays in a main direction perpendicular to the main surfaces of the light source 4 and to the optical axis 8 in the example shown. According to the invention, the main direction of emission can lie between 65° and 115° to the optical axis 8.

[0034] The collector 6 comprises a shell- or cap-shaped support 6.1 and a reflecting surface 6.2 on the inner surface of the support 6.1. The reflecting surface 6.2 advantageously has an elliptical or parabolic profile. The surface is advantageously a surface of revolution about an axis parallel to the optical axis. Alternatively, it may be a free-form, swept, or asymmetric surface. The surface may also comprise multiple segments. The collector 6 in the form of a shell or cap is advantageously made of a material exhibiting good heat resistance, for example, glass or a synthetic polymer such as polycarbonate (PC) or polyetherimide (PEI). The term "parabolic" generally applies to reflectors whose surface has a single focal point, i.e., a region where light rays converge (i.e., a region where light rays emitted by a light source located at this convergence region are projected over a long distance after being reflected from the surface). Projecting a long distance means that the light rays do not converge toward a point located at a distance at least 10 times the dimension of the reflector. In other words, the reflected light rays do not converge toward a single point of convergence, or if they do, this point of convergence is located at a distance greater than 10 times the dimension of the reflector. Thus, a parabolic surface may or may not feature a parabolic portion. Reflectors having such surfaces are typically used to create a light beam alone. Alternatively, the reflector may be used as a projection surface associated with an elliptical reflector. In this case, the light source of the parabolic reflector is the point of convergence of the light rays reflected by the elliptical reflector.

[0035] The light source 4 is arranged at the focal point of the reflecting surface 6.2 so that its light rays are collected and reflected along the optical axis. At least some of these reflected light rays have an inclination angle α of less than 25°, preferably less than 10°, in the vertical plane relative to the axis, so as to satisfy the so-called Gaussian condition, which allows for a stigmata (i.e., sharpness of the projected image) to be obtained. These light rays are advantageously reflected by the rear part of the reflecting surface 6.2. Advantageously, the projection lens 10 is a plano-convex lens, i.e., with a flat entrance surface 10.1 and a convex exit surface 10.2. The lens 10 is considered thin (e.g., less than 6 mm) due to the gentle slope of the light rays to be deflected. The lens 10 has a focal point 10.3 located along the optical axis 8 at the same level as the light source 4 or behind said light source. In this case, the focal point 10.3 is located at the same level as the reflective surface 6.2 of the collector 6. It should be noted that the focal point can also be located behind or in front of the reflective surface 6.2, provided that it is in its vicinity (preferably within less than 10 mm, and preferably less than 5 mm).

[0036] If the reflecting surface is elliptical, it has a second focal point 6.3 located in front of the lens 10 and at a distance from the optical axis 8. It should be noted that this focal point can also be located behind the lens and / or on the optical axis, provided that it is close to the lens, in order to reduce the width of the beam on the entrance face of the lens.

[0037] The light module 2 may comprise a screen 12 arranged in front of the light source 4 and facing the reflective surface 6.2 of the collector 6, in order to collect the light rays emitted by the light source 4 in question and that do not strike the reflective surface 6.2. Such a measure is useful to avoid the presence of parasitic rays that may participate in the formation of the light beam (but without being imaged, strictly speaking). These rays may then illuminate the upper part of the light beam, which is undesirable in the case of an illumination beam with a cut-off. The screen is advantageously opaque and non-reflective in order to absorb these rays, but it is also possible to envisage reflecting them towards a distal absorption site.

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

[0039] Figure 3 shows a representation of the light intensity on the reflecting surface 6.2 as viewed from the outside along the optical axis. Specifically, it is the irradiance of the surface, i.e., the number of W / m² for electromagnetic radiation incident perpendicular to the direction of the surface. 2 The power per unit area is expressed as ρ / μ. The dark areas covering most of the surface correspond to lower irradiance, while the lighter central areas correspond to higher irradiance. It can be seen that the dark areas are clearly delimited by edges 6.2.1 and 6.2.2. In other words, the illuminated surface 6.2 inherently has sharp edges that can form cutoffs in the projection illumination beam that images this surface.

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

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

[0042] The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment and differs from it essentially in the following respects: the rear edge 106.2.2 of the reflective surface 106.2 has a curve, and more generally the walls forming the collector's holder 106.1 and the collector's reflective surface 106.2 extend less downward in the direction of the light source 104. In other words, the rear edge 106.2.2 not only has a curve, but is also closer to the optical axis 108. This is due to the desired beam shape, with maximum intensity at the level of the optical axis 108. In other collector configurations, it is possible to move the rear edge away from the optical axis. The rest is essentially the same as the optical module of the first embodiment.

[0043] 5 is a schematic representation of the optical module and its operating principle, similar to FIG. 1. As in the first embodiment, optical projection systems other than the projection lens 110 are conceivable, in particular one or more reflectors (as in FIGS. 16 and 17). It can be seen that the collector 106 is shorter, i.e., less divergent towards the light source 104.

[0044] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the concentrator 6 of the optical module 102 of Figure 5, similar to Figure 2. It can be seen that the rear edge 106.2.2 of the reflective surface 106.2 of the concentrator 106 forms a bend at its intersection with the central vertical plane.

[0045] Figure 7 is a representation of the light intensity of the reflective surface 106.2 viewed from the outside along the optical axis, similar to Figure 3. In that view, the curvature of the rear edge 106.2.2 can be clearly seen.

[0046] Figure 8 is a diagrammatic representation of the image projected by the optical module of Figure 5, similar to Figure 4. One can see the shape of the horizontal cutoff, which corresponds to the profile of the rear edge 106.2.2 visible in Figures 6 and 7.

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

[0048] This third embodiment differs from the previous two in that the concentrator is laterally truncated, i.e. it now only forms part of a shell as in the first and second embodiments.

[0049] The structure of the module and its working principle are similar to the previous two embodiments.

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

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

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

[0053] 12 to 15 show a lighting device for a motor vehicle according to a first embodiment.

[0054] Figures 12 and 13 show two perspective views of the light device 14. The light device 14 comprises a number of light modules according to the invention which combine to form a downward or low beam light beam with a curved horizontal cutoff.

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

[0056] The optical device 14 also comprises four optical modules 2 arranged side by side, according to the optical modules of Figures 1 to 4 (i.e., modules with flat horizontal cutoffs), such a feature being commonly referred to using the term "flat".

[0057] However, these optical modules 2 have the special feature that their projection lenses are integrated into a common lens 10'. The common lens 10' has a generally curved horizontal profile and an entrance surface 10'.1 and an exit surface 10'.2. The lens has a focal line 10'.3 that is advantageously located behind each collector 6 so as to essentially image the rear edge 6.2.2 of the reflective surface, thereby creating a sharp horizontal ("flat") cutoff. Thus, the illuminated reflective surface 6.2 of each collector 6 is essentially imaged vertically, but not so much horizontally, in order to achieve a diffuse horizontal illumination and ensure good uniformity between the images of the optical modules 2.

[0058] The projection lens 110 of the optical module 102 is advantageously separate from the common lens 10. The focal point of the lens 10 itself is located in front of the rear edge 106.2.2 of the reflective surface 106.2 of the concentrator 106 so as to image this surface not only vertically but also horizontally, thereby creating a sharp "curved" cut-off.

[0059] A partition may be provided between the optical module 102 and the optical module 2 closest to it, so that the modules can be placed close to each other without light rays leaking from one module interfering with the other. Such a partition extends essentially vertically when the optical device is in the mounting position shown in Figure 12. Advantageously, the partition is light-absorbing.

[0060] FIG. 14 shows the light images produced by optical module 102 (FIGS. 12 and 13) (“KINK”) and optical module 2 (“FLAT”). The upper light image is produced by optical module 102. It is very clear and corresponds to the light image of FIG. 8. The lower light image is produced by two of the four optical modules 2 (FIGS. 12 and 13), namely optical module 102, for the ray paths shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The sharp horizontal cutoff and uniform horizontal blending of the light images of the two modules are clearly visible. Note that the horizontal cutoff is lower and particularly flat compared to that seen in FIG. 4 for the optical module of the first embodiment. This is because the reflective surface of each concentrator has a rear edge and side edges that are farther away from the light source (similar to the optical modules of FIGS. 5 to 8), and the rear edge and side edges are exactly in the same plane.

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

[0062] 16 to 19 show a lighting device for a motor vehicle according to a second embodiment.

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

[0064] The light device 114 is essentially distinguished from the light device 14 of FIGS. 12 and 13 in that each projection lens of the light modules 2 and 102 is replaced by a reflecting mirror.

[0065] Specifically, the module 102 comprises an optical projection system 110' including a first reflector 110'.1 and a second reflector 110'.2. The first reflector 110'.1 may be flat or have a concavely curved horizontal profile. It transmits the light beam emitted by the collector of the optical module 102 to the second reflector 110'.2, which is configured to form an image of the illuminated reflective surface of the optical module 102. For this purpose, the second reflector 110'.2 may have a concave, parabolic vertical profile. Such a profile allows for an enlarged image of the illuminated reflective surface on the collector of the module 102. The second reflector 110'.2 may have a convex horizontal profile, especially when the first reflector 110'.1 has a concave horizontal profile. The first and second reflectors just described may also be reversed. In this case, the optical device would be more bulky (especially in the vertical direction) due to the fact that the first imaging mirror would have to be further forward.

[0066] Similar to the optical module 102, the optical module 2 comprises an optical projection system 10" provided with a first reflecting mirror 10"1 and a second reflecting mirror 10"2. The principle of operation is the same as that of the optical system 110' described above. Therefore, the statements presented above also apply to the optical system 10".

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

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

[0069] FIG. 20 shows a lighting device for an automotive vehicle according to a third embodiment.

[0070] 20 is a front perspective view of the light device 314, seen from above. The light device 314 includes a plurality of light modules according to the present invention, which are combined to form a high-beam type illumination beam.

[0071] Specifically, the light device 314 comprises a first group of two light modules 302 similar to those of FIGS. 1 to 4 (i.e., modules with flat horizontal cutoffs). However, the vertical orientation of the modules is reversed compared to the first embodiment, since the majority of the light forming the high-beam type beam is above the horizon. Therefore, according to the viewing angle in FIG. 20, each concentrator 306 points its cavity upward. For simplicity, the individual light sources are not shown. The function of this first group is to achieve the horizontal (or other) spread of the high beam. The light modules 302 share a common projection lens 310.

[0072] The optical device 314 also includes a second group of four side-by-side optical modules 302' similar to those of FIGS. 1 to 4 (i.e., modules with flat horizontal cutoffs) (again rotated 180° vertically). Therefore, from the viewing angle in FIG. 20, each concentrator 306' faces its cavity upward. The function of this second group is to create the frontal area of ​​the high beam, i.e., the central area with maximum intensity. However, these optical modules 302' have the special feature that their projection lenses are integrated into a common lens 310'. The common lens 310' has a generally curved horizontal profile and includes an entrance surface 310'.1 and an exit surface 310'.2. The entrance surface 310'.1 is structured in this case to improve the uniformity of the high beam.

[0073] A partition 320 may be provided between the optical module 302 and the optical module 302' closest to it, so that the modules can be placed close to each other without light rays leaking from one module interfering with the other. Such a partition 320 extends essentially vertically when the optical device is in the mounted position, as shown. Advantageously, the partition is light-absorbing.

[0074] Figure 21 shows the combined light image of the collectors 302 and 302' of Figure 20 when all light sources are turned on, in which the high beam light distribution can be easily seen.

[0075] FIG. 22 shows a lighting device for an automotive vehicle according to a fourth embodiment.

[0076] 22 shows a top view of the light device. The light device 414 comprises a number of light modules according to the invention, which combine to form a segmented high beam lighting beam with side light segments in the shape of a ship's sail (as seen on the screen) and central segments in the shape of a vertical strip.

[0077] Specifically, the optical device 414 comprises a first subgroup 502 of six optical modules. The four central modules are similar to those in FIGS. 9-11 (i.e., modules with vertical cutoffs). However, their vertical orientation is reversed compared to the first embodiment because the majority of the light forming the high beam is above the horizon. Therefore, according to the viewing angle in FIG. 22, each concentrator 406 faces its cavity upward. The function of these central modules is to form the rectangular central segments of the segmented high beam. The end modules are similar to those in FIGS. 1-4, with one side of their concentrators truncated, or similar to those in FIGS. 9-11, with one side extended into a shell. Again, the vertical orientation is rotated 180° so that the concentrators 506, 506' are viewed from above. The function of these side modules is to form the sail-shaped side segments of the segmented high beam. For the sake of simplicity, the individual light sources are not shown. It should be noted that in this case the collectors 406, 506, 506' are arranged side by side in an annular repeating arrangement with the above-mentioned surface extensions of the lateral modules 506, 506', and the optical foci of the collectors lie on a circular arc.

[0078] The optical device 314 also comprises a second sub-group with six optical modules similar to the first group, except that the two end collectors (the central collector 406' adjacent to the right-hand collector 506''') are offset one after the other forward relative to the optical focal points of the other collectors 506" and 406 to the left of them. In other words, there is a step between the collectors. This configuration has the advantage of reducing optical aberrations at the cutoff height and making it possible to obtain light segments with a vertical cutoff that are as vertical as possible when projected onto the screen. If necessary, a person skilled in the art could create a different configuration of modules in which the collectors are offset in a stepped manner (for example, all in one direction, or even by offsetting the end collectors relative to the central collector).

[0079] The beams of the sub-clusters 502, 502' are overlapped to produce a segmented high beam.

[0080] A partition 420 may be provided between the first sub-group 502 and the second sub-group 502', so as to allow the sub-groups to be close to each other without light rays leaking from one of the sub-groups interfering with the other. Such a partition 420 extends essentially vertically when the light device is in the mounted position, as shown. Advantageously, the partition is light-absorbing.

[0081] It is also advantageous to have a screen 421 placed between the collector and the projection lens, which makes it possible to block parasitic rays coming from the end collectors 506', 506''' and improve the clarity of the side segments.

[0082] In general, various optical projection systems can be envisaged for various embodiments of the optical module or device, as long as they are capable of imaging the illuminated reflective surface of the collector in question. In the case of the pair of reflectors described above with reference to Figures 16 to 19, the first and / or second reflectors may be integral with the associated collector, which is advantageous in terms of the relative alignment of these elements.

[0083] 23 shows a variant embodiment of the collector. According to this variant, the collector 6 may be made as a solid refractive element made of synthetic polymers such as polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate, glass or silicone. This solid refractive element comprises an entrance surface 6'.4 for the light beam emitted by the light source 4, an exit surface 6'.5 and a reflecting surface 6'.1 in the form of a cap. The reflecting surface 6'.1 is metallized to create a reflecting surface 6'.2 according to the invention.

[0084] Furthermore, while the light modules of the present invention have been described herein as forming a lighting device for producing illumination beams such as low beam, high beam, or a linear array of segmented high beams with parallel vertical strips, it should be understood that these modules could also be designed to perform signaling functions such as turn signals, daytime running lights, or position lights. This would have the aesthetic advantage of allowing a lighting device to include multiple aesthetically similar modules when turned off and to perform multiple or even all of the prescribed vehicle lighting and signaling functions at the front of the vehicle. Thus, a first lighting device producing a low beam and another lighting device producing a (possibly segmented) high beam could be combined within the same motor vehicle headlamp.

[0085] Still generally, it is advantageous to note numerous advantages of the optical module and optical device according to the present invention. The fact that the illuminated reflective surface of the collector is imaged essentially under Gaussian conditions makes it possible to obtain a sharp optical image and thus create a wide variety of cutoffs by shaping the corresponding edges of the reflective surface. Another notable advantage results from the fact that the Gaussian conditions exist to obtain a minimum level of sharpness, i.e., the collector dimensions are limited (e.g., less than 30 mm), particularly in height. Yet another notable advantage results from the fact that the Gaussian conditions exist, i.e., the projection lens can be a thin lens (e.g., less than 6 mm), which allows it to be manufactured in a single plastic injection without sink mark problems. Thin lenses have other advantages, such as requiring shorter injection cycle times, reducing the weight of the optical module, and causing little or no chromatic aberration. The last advantage allows the use of inexpensive, normal quality synthetic polymeric materials versus optically high quality materials that produce fewer color defects.

[0086] Finally, the fact that the lens is thin allows one particular embodiment to be envisaged in which the shell of the collector 6 and the projection lens 10 are formed in one piece by injection moulding, with the front end of the collector and the lens being connected by a bridge of material.

Claims

1. An optical module (2; 102; 202), in particular for motor vehicles, comprising: a light source (4; 104) capable of emitting a light beam; a collector (6; 106; 206) having a reflective surface (6.2; 106.2; 206.2) adapted to collect and reflect the light rays emitted by said light source (4; 104) into a light beam along the optical axis (8; 108) of the optical module; an optical system (10, 10', 10"; 110, 110') adapted to project said light beam; In an optical module (2; 102; 202) comprising the optical system (10, 10', 10"; 110, 110') is configured to form an image of the reflecting surface (6.2; 106.2; 206.2) of the collector (6; 106; 206), The optical system (10, 10', 10"; 110, 110') has a focal point (10.3, 10'.3; 110.3), which is located on the optical axis (8; 108) in front of the reflecting surface (6.2; 106.2; 206.2) and at or behind the light source (4; 104), with respect to the general direction of propagation of the light beam along the optical axis (8; 108).

2. 2. The optical module (2; 102; 202) according to claim 1, wherein the collector (6; 106; 206) is configured so that light rays reflected from the rear part of the reflecting surface (6.2; 106.2; 206.2) of the collector are parallel to the optical axis (8; 108) or have an inclination angle (α) in a vertical plane with respect to the optical axis of less than 25°, or less than 10°.

3. 3. The optical module (2; 102; 202) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light source (4; 104) is configured to emit light rays in a main direction between 65° and 115° to the optical axis or in a main direction perpendicular to the optical axis (8; 108).

4. 4. The optical module (2; 102) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the reflecting surface (6.2; 106.2; 206.2) of the collector (6; 106; 206) has a parabolic or elliptical profile.

5. 5. An optical module (2; 102; 202) according to claim 1, further comprising a screen (12; 112) located in front of the light source (4; 104) with respect to the general direction of propagation of the light beam along the optical axis and facing the reflective surface (6.2; 106.2; 206.2) of the collector (6; 106; 206) to collect light rays emitted forward by the light source (4; 104) and not reflected by the reflective surface (6.2; 106.2; 206.2) of the collector (6; 106; 206).

6. 6. The light module (2; 102; 202) according to claim 5, wherein the screen (12; 112) is opaque and non-reflective to absorb the concentrated light rays.

7. 7. An optical module (2; 102; 202) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the optical system is a projection lens (10, 10'; 110).

8. 7. An optical module (2; 102) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the optical system (10"; 110') comprises a reflector (10".1; 110'.1).

9. 9. An optical module (2; 102; 202) according to claim 8, wherein the reflector (10"; 110') of the optical system (10"; 110') is a first reflector, and the optical system comprises a second reflector (10"2; 110'.2) located behind the first reflector (10"; 110'.1) at a distance from the optical axis relative to the general propagation direction of the light beam, the first reflector (10"; 110'.1) being configured to reflect the light beam towards the second reflector (10"2; 110'.2), and the second reflector being configured to reflect the light beam reflected by the first reflector in a direction parallel to the optical axis.

10. 10. An optical module (2; 102) according to claim 9, wherein the first reflector (10''.1; 110'.1) is flat or has a concave profile in the horizontal plane when the optical module is oriented in the mounting position.

11. 9. An optical module (2; 102) according to claim 8, wherein the reflector (10''.1; 110'.1) has a parabolic profile in the vertical plane when the optical module is oriented in the mounting position.

12. An optical module (2; 102) as claimed in claim 9 or 10, wherein the first reflector (10"1; 110'.1) or the second reflector (10"2; 110'.2) has a parabolic profile in a vertical plane when the optical module is oriented in an installation position.

13. 13. An optical module according to claim 1, wherein the reflecting surface (6.2; 106.2; 206.2) of the collector (6; 106; 206) is concave and has a front edge (6.2.1; 106.2.1; 206.2.1) and a rear edge (6.2.2; 106.2.2; 206.2.2) relative to the general direction of propagation of the light beam, wherein when the optical module is oriented in a mounting position, the front edge bounds a lower part of the formed light image and the rear edge bounds an upper part of the image.

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

15. 15. An optical module (2; 102) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the reflecting surface (6.2; 106.2) of the collector (6; 106) has two lateral edges on either side of the optical axis that are extensions of the rear edge (6.2.2; 106.2.2), the lateral edges being in a horizontal plane when the optical module is oriented in an installation position.

16. 16. An optical module (2) according to claim 15, wherein said rear edge (6.2.2) lies in a horizontal plane and said formed optical image has a corresponding flat horizontal cut-off.

17. 16. An optical module (102) according to claim 15, wherein said rear edge (106.2.2) has a curve and said formed optical image has a corresponding curved horizontal cut-off.

18. 15. The optical module (202) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the reflective surface (206.2) of the collector (206) comprises two lateral edges (206.2.3, 206.2.4) on either side of the optical axis, the lateral edges intersecting the rear edge (206.2.2), and the formed optical image has corresponding lateral cutoffs.

19. A light device (14; 114) for a motor vehicle comprising a plurality of light modules (2; 102) combined to form together a lighting or signaling beam, at least one of the light modules (2; 102) being a light module according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. An optical device (14; 114) according to claim 19, wherein at least one (2) of the plurality of optical modules (2; 102) is an optical module according to claim 13, and at least another (102) of the plurality of optical modules is an optical module according to claim 14, and the light beam has a curved horizontal cutoff.

21. An optical device (14) as described in claim 20, wherein at least two (2) of the plurality of optical modules (2; 102) are optical modules as described in claim 13, and the optical system (10') of each of the optical modules is common.

22. 22. The optical device (14) of claim 21, wherein the common optical system (10') has a focal line (10'.3) located behind the collectors (6) of the at least two optical modules (2) relative to the overall propagation direction of the light beam.

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