Optical module for a luminous motor-vehicle device

Abstract

The invention relates to an optical module (1) for collimating a light beam delivered by a light source (2) located on a base (10) of the optical module (1) and along an optical axis (O1), comprising a first optical surface configured to deflect light rays (R1, R2, R3, R4) delivered by the light source (2), a second optical surface (12) for deflecting light rays (R1, R2) delivered by the first optical surface, an optical guide (17) parallel to the optical axis (O1) connecting the first optical surface to the second optical surface (12). The optical guide (17) comprises an opening located between the first optical surface and second optical surface (12), the opening forming a void (100) in the optical guide (17) and comprising a third and a fourth optical surface (14) forming collimating means for light rays (R1, R2) propagating through the optical guide (17).

Description

Description Title of the invention: Optical module for a motor vehicle lighting device [1] The technical context of the present invention is that of luminous signaling devices for motor vehicles. More particularly, the invention relates to an optical module for a luminous device of a motor vehicle. [2] In the state of the art, the use of luminous signaling devices, such as signal lights, on motor vehicles is known in order to be clearly visible to other motorists. The luminous devices are harmoniously integrated into the silhouette of the vehicle and contribute to its luminous signature. The luminous signature of a motor vehicle can be defined as a particular arrangement of the lighting zones giving the motor vehicle an original aesthetic appearance and / or allowing rapid and intuitive identification of a model of motor vehicle or a make of motor vehicle. The luminous devices thus comprise a set of light sources arranged in fairly complex shapes, generally composed of curved shapes, through which light rays are emitted. [3] Such light devices must emit light rays in specific directions so that other road users are properly warned of the presence of the motor vehicle and / or its intentions, and in order to comply with current national legislation. For this purpose, known light devices may incorporate optical modules capable of collimating a light beam. [4] We know in particular the document FR3045781A1 which discloses an example of such an optical module. The collimation of a light beam consists of modifying a divergent light beam emitted by a light source so that its light rays are made parallel to each other. This transformation of the light beam requires the use of optical surfaces positioned with great precision. The assembly of these optical surfaces is therefore particularly complex. This assembly is even more complex when the light device comprises a plurality of light sources arranged along a line or a curved surface. Thus the light devices known from the state of The technique is generally complex to assemble and / or fails to comply with the strictest automotive legislation. [5] The object of the present invention is to propose a new optical module in order to at least partially address the preceding problems and to further lead to other advantages. [6] Another aim of the invention is to simplify the optical coupling between such an optical module and the associated light source. [7] Another aim of the invention is to propose such an optical module sufficiently compact so that it allows matrix use and produces optimal collimation of the light rays generated by the light source. [8] According to a first aspect of the invention, at least one of the aforementioned objectives is achieved with an optical module for a motor vehicle lighting device, the optical module being configured to collimate a light beam coming from a light source located at a base of the optical module and along an optical axis, the optical module comprising: - a first optical surface configured to deflect first light rays coming from the light source and propagating in the air between said first optical surface and said second optical surface; - a second optical surface configured to deflect light rays from the first optical surface; - an optical guide extending parallel to the optical axis and connecting the first optical surface to the second optical surface. [9] According to the invention, the optical guide comprises a recess located between the first optical surface and the second optical surface, the recess being formed in the optical guide and being delimited by a third optical surface proximal to the first optical surface and a fourth optical surface, proximal to the second optical surface, the third optical surface and / or the fourth optical surface being configured to distribute second light rays which propagate in the optical guide towards a part of the optical guide opposite the first optical surface.

[0010] Advantageously, the third optical surface and / or the fourth optical surface are configured to distribute homogeneously or substantially homogeneously the second light rays which propagate in the optical guide towards a part of the optical guide opposite the first optical surface.

[0011] By "collimate", we mean that the collimated light rays are generally parallel to each other, and that angular deviations linked in particular to the dimensions of the light source may be present. By "partially collimate", we mean that the collimation is done in such a way that the light rays are all in a given plane, the angular deviations mentioned above being allowed with respect to said plane, and that in said plane, they may have different directions.

[0012] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the base forms a lower part of the optical module, proximal to the light source with which said optical module is intended to collaborate. The base thus forms a bearing surface against the electronic card supporting the light source with which the optical module is intended to be paired. This latter characteristic allows precise positioning of the light source by the optical part.

[0013] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the first optical surface forms a diopter for the first light rays coming from the light source with which the optical module is intended to collaborate. The first optical surface makes it possible to distribute the first light rays coming from the light source homogeneously on the second optical surface. However, the first light rays which extend beyond the first optical surface are not yet perfectly parallel to each other. The first optical surface thus forms a material-air diopter: the first light rays coming from the light source reach the first optical surface by propagating through the optical module and then, passing through the first optical surface, propagate in the air towards the second optical surface.By "distributed homogeneously" we mean that the illumination obtained on the surface reached by the light rays presents small variations. In particular, by considering convex zones having an area corresponding to one tenth of the total surface, and distributed over the entire said surface, the average illumination considered on each zone varies by a factor of less than 3 for all the zones.

[0014] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the second optical surface forms a diopter for the first light rays originating from the first optical surface and propagating in the air between the first optical surface and the second optical surface. The second optical surface makes it possible to achieve partial collimation, i.e. the first light rays originating from the second optical surface are less divergent than the first light rays originating from the first optical surface. In particular, the first light rays which extend beyond the second optical surface are now partially collimated.The second optical surface thus forms an air-matter diopter: the first light rays coming from the first optical surface reach the level of the second optical surface by propagating in the air and then, passing through the second optical surface, propagate in the optical module towards an exit face of said optical module. The exit face is proximal to the second optical surface.

[0015] The combination of the first optical surface and the second optical surface makes it possible to distribute relatively homogeneously the first light rays produced by the light source with which the optical module is intended to be associated and to make them all parallel or substantially parallel to a first collimation direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical module, i.e. along a width of the optical module.

[0016] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the optical guide connects the first optical surface and the second optical surface. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to precisely control the relative position and the relative orientation of the first optical surface and the second optical surface, thus making it possible to obtain high optical precision and qualitative collimation of the first light rays produced by the light source with which the optical module is intended to collaborate.

[0017] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the recess forms a void inside the optical guide, delimited, on the side of the first optical surface, by the third optical surface and, on the side of the second optical surface, by the fourth optical surface. The recess makes it possible, in a clever manner, to arrange two additional diopters in the optical guide in order to achieve the collimation of second light rays which propagate in said optical guide. For this purpose, the recess thus makes it possible to position, along the optical guide, the third optical surface and the fourth optical surface. The recess extends both in the direction of the optical axis and along the width of the optical module.

[0018] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the third optical surface forms a diopter for the second light rays originating from the light source and propagating in the optical guide. The third optical surface makes it possible to achieve partial collimation of the second light rays originating from the light source, i.e. the second light rays originating from the third optical surface are less divergent than the second light rays originating from the light source. However, the second light rays which extend beyond the third optical surface are not yet perfectly parallel to each other.The third optical surface thus forms a matter-air diopter: the second light rays coming from the light source reach the level of the third optical surface by propagating through the optical guide and then, passing through the third optical surface, propagate in the air towards the fourth optical surface.

[0019] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the fourth optical surface forms a diopter for the second light rays coming from the third optical surface. The fourth optical surface makes it possible to achieve a collimation complementary to that achieved by the third optical surface, that is to say that the second light rays coming from the fourth optical surface are less divergent than the second light rays coming from the third optical surface. In particular, the second light rays which extend beyond the fourth optical surface are now made perfectly parallel to each other or almost parallel to each other.The fourth optical surface thus forms an air-matter diopter: the second light rays coming from the third optical surface reach the level of the fourth optical surface by propagating in the air and then, passing through the fourth optical surface, propagate again in the optical guide towards the exit face of said optical module.

[0020] The combination of the third optical surface and the fourth optical surface makes it possible to distribute relatively homogeneously the second light rays produced by the light source to which the optical module is intended to be associated and propagating through the optical guide according to the first collimation direction, perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical module, i.e. according to the width of the optical module. Advantageously, the first optical surface and the second optical surface make it possible to partially collimate the first light rays emitted by the light source according to the same partial collimation direction as the third optical surface and the fourth optical surface, for the second light rays propagating in the optical guide.

[0021] The invention thus makes it possible to shape the light rays emitted by the light source with which the optical module according to the invention is intended to collaborate. Depending on the direction of propagation of the light rays emitted from the light source and entering the optical module near its base, the light rays interact with certain faces of the optical module and / or with certain of the aforementioned optical surfaces. In particular, for the sake of clarity and understanding of the operation of the present invention, the following light rays propagating through the optical module according to the invention are distinguished: - first light rays which propagate in the optical module via the ambient air separating the base from the plate first pass through the first optical surface then the second optical surface, said first light rays first passing through the first optical surface before passing through the second optical surface via the ambient air separating said first optical surface from said second optical surface. The first light rays are both distributed at the level of the second optical surface and made collimated or substantially collimated in a plane formed by the optical axis and the width of the optical module according to the invention, that is to say in the first direction within the meaning of the present invention; - second light rays propagating in the optical module through the optical guide first pass through the third optical surface and then the fourth optical surface. The second light rays propagate in the optical guide upstream of the third optical surface, then in the ambient air between the third optical surface and the fourth optical surface, then again in the optical guide beyond the fourth optical surface. Beyond the fourth optical surface, the second light rays are both distributed, and made collimated or substantially collimated in a plane formed by the optical axis and the width of the optical module according to the invention, that is to say in the first direction within the meaning of the present invention; - third light rays which propagate in the optical guide but without passing through the recess. The third light rays propagate towards an upper face of the optical module by total internal reflection against side walls of said optical guide. For this purpose, a parabolic shape of the optical guide advantageously makes it possible to shape the third light rays in order to orient them in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the first light rays and to the second light rays; - fourth light rays which escape the aforementioned shaping. These fourth light rays propagate in the optical guide in a direction between the recess and the lateral faces of the optical guide, so that they do not encounter sufficient optical surfaces which allow them to be straightened in the expected direction. The quantity of these fourth light rays could be limited by widening the recess, relative to the first direction, that is to say by increasing its width, or by stretching the lateral faces of the optical guide along the optical axis in order to intercept fourth light rays.

[0022] Thus, the optical module according to the first aspect of the invention solves the technical problem in that it makes it possible to improve the general collimation of the light rays emitted by the light source with which said optical module is intended to collaborate. More particularly, the optical module improves the collimation of the light rays which propagate in the optical guide.

[0023] The optical module in accordance with the first aspect of the invention advantageously comprises at least one of the improvements below, the technical characteristics forming these improvements being able to be taken alone or in combination:

[0024] - the recess is a through hole. In particular, the recess is a through hole provided in the optical guide, said through hole passing right through said optical guide in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis and along the smallest dimension of said optical axis;

[0025] - the optical guide, the first optical surface and the second optical surface are integrally formed and together form a single monolith. In the context of the present invention, by "integrally formed", it is understood that the optical guide, the first optical surface and the second optical surface are produced by the same manufacturing process and that they cannot be detached from one another without one and / or the other being entirely or partially damaged or destroyed. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to reduce manufacturing costs and to simplify the subsequent integration of such an optical module;

[0026] - the optical guide has a small thickness with respect to a length and a width of said optical guide. The thickness is here considered as corresponding to the smallest dimension of the optical guide taken in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis and to the width of the optical module. The length of the optical guide is taken parallel to the optical axis, and the width is taken simultaneously perpendicular to the length and to the thickness. By "small", it is understood that the thickness is at most equal to a quarter of the length of the optical guide. In particular, a thickness of the optical guide, taken perpendicular to the optical axis, is between 1 mm and 3 mm, preferably equal to 2 mm. Apart from the part of the optical guide comprising the recess, the optical guide has a profile which may be rectangular or flared. The optical guide has two opposite faces parallel to each other, in a direction parallel to the thickness of the optical guide.In the direction parallel to the width of the optical module, that is to say in the first direction within the meaning of the invention, taken simultaneously perpendicular to the thickness and to the optical axis, the optical guide has two opposite faces which can be parallel to each other or, preferably, inclined relative to each other in order to promote internal reflections of the second light rays propagating in the optical guide. In a particularly advantageous manner, the lateral faces are parabolic, that is to say they each form a portion of a paraboloid, or cylindro-parabolic, that is to say they each form a cylindrical surface with a parabolic profile, or director. In other words, the faces of the optical guide form guide faces delimiting a propagation zone of the second light rays, by total internal reflection on these faces and inside said optical guide.This advantageous configuration makes it possible to make parallel or. substantially parallel the third light rays which propagate in the optical guide without interacting with the recess and the third optical surfaces and fourth optical surfaces;

[0027] - in a direction parallel to the optical axis, the optical guide, taken at the level of the first optical surface, has a dimension smaller than that of said optical guide taken at the level of the second optical surface. In other words, in a direction parallel to the optical axis, the optical guide has a flared, and more particularly parabolic, shape in the direction of the second optical surface, so as to make it possible to make the third light rays propagating in the optical guide parallel or substantially parallel to the optical axis. This advantageous configuration also makes it possible to homogenize the distribution of the third light rays near the second optical surface. Consequently, this advantageous configuration makes it possible to limit the possible presence of hot spots in the collimated light beam produced by the optical module.In particular, at the first optical surface, a width of the optical guide is between 9 mm and 11 mm, preferably equal to 10 mm. Additionally or alternatively, at the second optical surface, a width of the optical guide is between 20 mm and 30 mm, preferably equal to 25 mm;

[0028] - the optical module includes: (i) a first portion in the form of a cylinder portion, the first optical surface being associated with the first portion, and (ii) a second plate-shaped portion, the first portion being connected to the second portion via the optical guide, the second optical surface being associated with the second portion. The first part supports the first optical surface configured to deflect some of the light rays coming from the light source with which the optical module is intended to be associated, and in particular the first light rays. The second part supports the second optical surface configured to deflect the first light rays coming from the first optical surface. The second part is therefore positioned downstream of the first part, according to the direction of propagation of the light rays in the optical module. The cylinder portion forming the first part thus delimits a hollow housing, inside said cylinder portion cylinder, in which hollow housing the light source is intended to be placed. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to efficiently inject the light rays generated by the light source into the optical module, through the cylindrical portion. The plate forming the second part extends at a distance from the first part and forms the exit face of the optical module. The plate is advantageously flat, and preferably extends in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical module;

[0029] - the first optical surface comprises a first set of prisms extending parallel to a first axis perpendicular to the optical axis, and the second optical surface comprises a second set of prisms extending parallel to a second axis perpendicular to the optical axis. The first optical surface forms a Fresnel surface or a stepped surface, in order to distribute the first light rays from the light source on the second surface, and in particular according to the collimation direction while maintaining a limited size of the optical module according to the invention. The collimation direction is here advantageously chosen according to the width of the optical module. The prisms forming the first optical surface may have variable shapes and / or dimensions depending on their distance from the optical axis, so as to produce a deviation adapted to the angle of incidence of the first light rays on said first optical surface.Similarly, the second optical surface forms a Fresnel surface or a stepped surface, in order to partially collimate the first light rays coming from the first optical surface according to the collimation direction while maintaining a limited size of the optical module according to the invention. The partial collimation direction is here advantageously chosen according to the width of the optical module. The prisms forming the second optical surface may have variable shapes and / or dimensions depending on their distance from the optical axis, so as to produce a deviation adapted to the angle of incidence of the first light rays on said second optical surface.

[0030] - the first axis associated with the first optical surface and the second axis associated with the second optical surface are advantageously parallel. The first axis and the second axis are here advantageously chosen according to the thickness of the optical module;

[0031] - the third optical surface and / or the fourth optical surface respectively comprise a third set of prisms and / or a fourth set of prisms, the third set of prisms and / or the fourth set of prisms extending parallel to a third axis and / or a fourth axis respectively, both perpendicular to the optical axis. The third optical surface forms a Fresnel surface or a stepped surface, in order to partially collimate the second light rays coming from the light source and propagating in the optical guide according to the collimation direction while maintaining a limited size of the optical module according to the invention. The partial collimation direction is here advantageously chosen according to the width of the optical module.The prisms forming the third optical surface may have variable shapes and / or dimensions depending on their distance from the optical axis, so as to produce a deviation adapted to the angle of incidence of the second light rays on said third optical surface. Similarly, the fourth optical surface forms a Fresnel surface or a stepped surface, in order to partially collimate the second light rays coming from the third optical surface according to the collimation direction while maintaining a limited size of the optical module according to the invention. The partial collimation direction is here advantageously chosen according to the width of the optical module.The prisms forming the fourth optical surface may have variable shapes and / or dimensions depending on their distance from the optical axis, so as to produce a deviation adapted to the angle of incidence of the second light rays on said fourth optical surface. When the third and fourth surfaces both comprise prisms, it is the combination of these prisms which makes it possible to ensure the partial collimation of the second light rays. When only one of the third and fourth surfaces comprises prisms, the other surface is smooth and advantageously flat;

[0032] - the third axis is parallel to the fourth axis;

[0033] - the third axis is parallel to the first axis. In particular, the third axis and the fourth axis are here advantageously chosen according to the thickness of the optical module;

[0034] - a width of the recess is identical to that of the cylinder portion forming the first part of the optical module. The width of the recess is measured in the same direction as the width of the optical guide, as defined previously. The width of the cylinder portion is measured in the same direction. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to capture a maximum of second light rays propagating in the optical guide in order to partially collimate them and distribute them spatially;

[0035] - the recess is centered relative to the cylinder portion forming the first part of the optical module. In other words, the recess and the cylinder portion are both aligned and centered relative to the optical axis of the optical module according to the invention. Complementarily, the recess and the cylinder portion both have the same plane of symmetry which extends parallel to the optical axis of the optical module according to the invention;

[0036] - the optical module comprises a fifth optical surface configured to straighten all the light rays coming from the light source in a fifth direction perpendicular to the first direction. For this purpose, the fifth optical surface comprises a fifth set of reliefs which extend along the inner face of the cylinder portion, perpendicular to the prisms forming the first optical surface. The fifth optical surface is formed by a set of arcuate lines centered on the same axis, perpendicular to the optical axis. The direction of elongation of the lines forming the fifth optical surface is here advantageously chosen according to the width of the optical module, so as to at least partially collimate the light rays which pass through it in a direction parallel to the thickness of the optical module. These different arcuate lines have radii of different values ​​so as to form steps.The fifth optical surface thus also forming a Fresnel surface or a stepped surface. The fifth optical surface is associated with the first portion-shaped part of the optical module. In particular, the fifth optical surface is proximal to the light source. The fifth optical surface is the first diopter crossed by all the light rays emitted by the light source and interacting with the optical module according to the invention;.

[0037] - Finally, the optical module may also comprise a sixth optical surface configured to straighten and / or diffuse the light rays coming from either the second optical surface or the optical guide. The sixth optical surface forms an upper surface of the plate forming the output face of the optical module. The sixth optical surface extends parallel to the second optical surface. In particular, the sixth optical surface is arranged on an external face of the second part, opposite the face on which the second optical surface is arranged. The sixth optical surface may for example comprise a wavy and profiled shape perpendicular to the optical axis, the sixth optical surface makes it possible to at least partially collimate the light rays which pass through it, that is to say at least the first light rays, the second light rays and the third light rays in a direction parallel to the width of the optical module.For this purpose, the sixth optical surface forms a Fresnel surface or a stepped surface, in order to partially collimate the first light rays, the second light rays and the third light rays coming from a lower part of the optical module according to the collimation direction while maintaining a limited size of the optical module according to the invention. The partial collimation direction is here advantageously chosen according to the width of the optical module. The prisms forming the sixth optical surface may have variable shapes and / or dimensions depending on their distance from the optical axis, so as to produce a deviation adapted to the angle of incidence of the first, second and third light rays on said sixth optical surface.

[0038] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a lighting device for a motor vehicle, the lighting device comprising: - a support; - at least one light source fixed to the support; - at least one optical module in accordance with the first aspect of the invention or according to any of its improvements, the base of each optical module being in contact with the support, on either side of one of the at least one light source.

[0039] In particular, each light source is optically coupled to one of the at least one optical module, and in particular at its first part, i.e. in particular at the level of its fifth optical surface. By "optically coupled", we understand that the light rays generated by the light source are mainly, or even exclusively, injected into the optical module with which it is associated.

[0040] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the support may be of any type, by its nature, its shape, its dimensions and / or its material. In particular, the support may comprise an electronic card associated with at least one light source.

[0041] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the light source is of the type comprising one or more light-emitting diodes. By light-emitting diode, we mean any type of light-emitting diodes, such as for example LEDs, an acronym meaning "Light Emitting Diode", OLEDs, an acronym meaning "organic LED", AMOLEDs, an acronym meaning "Active-Matrix-Organic LED", or FOLEDs, an acronym meaning "Flexible OLED". Advantageously, the light source is selectively controlled by a control unit which regulates an electrical supply current for each of said light sources in order to control their emission of light rays. It is thus possible to selectively control the light sources in order to configure them in any configuration between an off configuration and a maximum illumination configuration.

[0042] According to a non-limiting embodiment, the light device is for example of the type of a projector and / or a signal light and / or a daytime running light.

[0043] Various embodiments of the invention are provided, incorporating, according to all of their possible combinations, the various optional features set out herein.

[0044] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description on the one hand, and from several examples of embodiment given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0045] [Fig.1] illustrates a three-dimensional view of an optical module according to the first aspect of the invention;

[0046] [Fig.2] illustrates a side view of the optical module shown in FIGURE 1.

[0047] Of course, the features, variants and different embodiments of the invention may be combined with each other, in various combinations, provided that they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variants of the invention may be imagined comprising only a selection of features described below in isolation from the other features described, if this selection of features is sufficient to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the prior art.

[0048] In particular, all the variants and embodiments described can be combined with each other if there is no technical obstacle to this combination.

[0049] In the figures, elements common to several figures retain the same reference.

[0050] With reference to FIGURES 1 and 2, the invention relates to an optical module 1 for a motor vehicle lighting device, the optical module 1 being configured to collimate a light beam coming from a light source 2 located at a base 10 of the optical module 1 and along an optical axis 01, the optical module 1 comprising: - a first optical surface 11 configured to deflect first light rays R1 coming from the light source 2; - a second optical surface 12 configured to deflect the first light rays R1 coming from the first optical surface 11, the first light rays R1 propagating in the air between the first optical surface 11 and the second optical surface 12; - an optical guide 17 extending parallel to the optical axis 01 and connecting the first optical surface 11 to the second optical surface 12. Only second light rays R2 and third light rays R3 emitted by the light source 2 propagate in the optical guide 17, as well as, possibly, light rays R4.

[0051] The second light rays R2 and the third light rays R3 propagate in the optical guide 17 from a proximal part of the base 10 towards a proximal part of the second optical surface 12, for example by total internal reflection in the optical guide 17 or by refraction with certain specific surfaces as will be described later.

[0052] In the FIGURES, the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 emitted by the light source 2 intended to collaborate with the optical module 1 according to the invention are represented by dotted lines.

[0053] Generally speaking, the base 10 forms a lower part of the optical module 1, proximal to the light source 2 with which said optical module 1 is intended to collaborate. The base 10 takes the form of a plate of generally rectangular shape. The base may comprise several portions, each portion advantageously having the form of a plate of generally rectangular shape. The base 10 is mainly flat so as to form a surface for bearing and fixing to a support - not shown - of a light device comprising the optical module 1. The fixing of the base 10 on the support may be done by any suitable means. The support is for example an electronic card on which the light source 2 is mounted.

[0054] The light device is more particularly of the type of a signaling device for a motor vehicle: it is intended to emit light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 generated by the light source 2 and shaped by the optical module 1 according to the invention, in order to make the motor vehicle clearly visible to other road users. It can be arranged indifferently at the front or at the rear of the motor vehicle. For this purpose, such a light device comprises a plurality of optical modules 1 according to the invention, each optical module 1 being associated with a light source 2, so that the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 generated by the light source 2 are injected into the optical module 1. Each optical module 1 is associated with one or more light sources 2. However, each light source 2 is only associated with a single optical module 1.Thus, each optical module 1 is intended to receive the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 emitted by a light source 2 associated with it. The same light ray R1, R2, R3, R4 cannot pass through two different optical modules 1.

[0055] The optical modules 1 are thus distinct and adjacent to each other, possibly with direct contact between them. The optical modules 1 are positioned next to each other along a line that can take any shape, such as for example an arc of a circle or, more generally, a convex shape. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to define complex geometries that allow a wide variety of light signatures of the motor vehicle to be developed: an output face of the optical module 1 - located opposite the light source 2 - thus forms an external surface, visible from the outside of the motor vehicle. Alternatively, such optical modules 1 are integrated into light devices, placed behind a diffuser, in particular configured to mask a spacing between two adjacent optical modules 1.In the context of the invention, the diffusing screen is a screen formed from a diffusing material and / or having a surface condition allowing the diffusion of light, such as for example graining on one of its main faces or on both main faces, the main faces being those which are configured to be crossed by the light coming from the optical module(s) 1.

[0056] Generally speaking, the surface formed by the output faces of the optical modules 1 can extend in three dimensions and have one or more different curvatures in order to meet the desired style effects on the motor vehicle.

[0057] According to the invention, the optical guide 17 of the optical module 1 comprises a recess 100 located between the first optical surface 11 and the second optical surface 12, the recess 100 being formed and located in the optical guide 17. The recess 100 is a through hole. The recess 100 is delimited by a third optical surface 13 proximal to the first optical surface 11 and a fourth optical surface 14, proximal to the second optical surface 12. The third optical surface 13 and / or the fourth optical surface 14 are configured to distribute the second light rays R2 which propagate in the optical guide 17 in a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous manner in the direction of the second optical surface 12 and relative to a direction parallel to the width of the optical module 1. In other words, the third optical surface 13 and the fourth optical surface 14, each located on one side and the other of the recess 100 relative to the optical axis 01, make it possible to deflect the second light rays R2 which propagate in the optical guide 17 so that - beyond the fourth optical surface 14 - said second light rays R2 are made more parallel to the optical axis 01 than before the third optical surface 13.

[0058] Thus, according to the invention, the light rays R2, R3, R4 which propagate in the optical guide are shaped, that is to say distributed spatially and oriented relative to the optical axis O1: - either by total internal reflection against two lateral faces 171 of the optical guide 17, as is represented schematically by the third light ray R3 in FIGURE 2, - either by the effect of the third optical surface 13 and the fourth optical surface 14, as is schematically represented by the second light ray R2 in FIGURE 2; - either by direct propagation through the optical guide 17, from its lower part to its upper part, represented by the fourth light ray R4 in FIGURE 2. The fourth light ray R4 rather escapes the rectification produced by the optical module 1, because it interacts neither with the recess 100 and its third 13 and fourth 14 optical surface, nor with the lateral faces 171 of the optical guide 17. The presence of these fourth light rays R4 can be limited either by further widening the recess 100 and the third 13 and fourth 14 optical surfaces, or by increasing the dimensions of the optical module 1 along the optical axis 01 so that the lateral faces 171 intercept any fourth light ray R4 which would propagate in the optical guide 17 between the recess 100 and the lateral face 171.

[0059] The recess 100 is arranged in the optical guide 17, so as to form a through opening along at least one axis perpendicular to the optical axis 01 of the optical module 1. Thus, the second light rays R3 which propagate in the optical guide 17 now pass through two new diopters - the third optical surface 13 and the fourth optical surface 14 - which allow them to be deflected from their incident orientation on the third optical surface 13 by refraction and / or by transmission.

[0060] The optical guide 17 of the optical module 1 according to the invention has a constant thickness in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis 01. In particular, a thickness of the optical guide 17 is between 1 mm and 3 mm, preferably equal to 2 mm. As visible in FIGURES 1 and 2, in a direction parallel to the optical axis 01, the optical guide 17 has a flared shape in the direction of the second optical surface 12, so that lateral faces 171, as visible in FIGURE 2, allow a straightening of the third light rays R3 by total internal reflection during their propagation in the optical guide 17 in order to make them parallel or substantially parallel to the optical axis 01. In other words, the optical guide 17 has a dimension taken at the level of the first optical surface 11 smaller than that taken at the level of the second optical surface 12.This configuration, complementary to the recess 100 and its third optical surface 13 and its fourth optical surface 14 which make it possible to distribute homogeneously the second light rays R2 which pass through them and to make them parallel or substantially parallel to the optical axis 01, also makes it possible to make parallel to the optical axis 01 the third light rays R3 emitted by the light source 2 which escape the third optical surface 13 during their propagation in the optical guide 17, and which encounter one of the lateral faces 171 during this propagation.

[0061] In a direction parallel to the optical axis 01, the optical guide 17 projects from the base 10. Furthermore, in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis 01, the optical guide 17 extends at a middle portion of the optical module 1, so that only the second light rays R2 and the third light rays R3 which are emitted by the light source 2 and which extend in a plane parallel to that of FIGURE 2 or close to the latter are transmitted through said optical guide 17. In other words, the second R2 and third R3 light rays which are emitted by the light source 2 in the plane parallel to FIGURE 2 or in a slightly intersecting plane, i.e. inclined by a few degrees for example, are injected into the optical guide 17 taking into account its thickness.They then propagate there either by total internal reflection against the lateral faces 171 of the optical guide 17, or through said optical guide 17 and the recess 100, as explained previously. On the other hand, the first light rays R1 which extend in a manner too inclined with respect to this plane, that is to say for example along a plane inclined by several degrees with respect to the plane shown in FIGURE 2, extend in the air surrounding the optical module 1 and between the first optical surface 11 and the second optical surface 12.

[0062] Thus, the flared and extended shape of the optical guide 17, directly above the light source 2, makes it possible to capture and straighten the third light rays R3 in the direction of the optical axis O1 and to homogenize the distribution of said third light rays R3 during their propagation in the optical guide 17. This advantageous configuration thus makes it possible to limit the possible presence of hot spots or shadows in the light beam shaped by the optical module 1 from the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 emitted by the light source 2.

[0063] At the second optical surface 12, the optical module 1 takes the form of a flat plate 18 which advantageously extends parallel to the base 10. This configuration allows symmetry of the optical module 10, and thus equal light distribution laterally on each half. The plate 18 thus forms an exit face of the optical module 1. The plate 18 extends at a distance from and in line with the base 10, so that the first light rays R1 emitted by the light source 2 and which do not extend into the optical guide 17 pass through the gap between the base 10, and the first optical surface 11, and the plate 18, at the second optical surface 12, through the air. The plate 18 advantageously has a rectangular shape so that it can easily be associated with that of another optical module 1 - by adjacent proximity - so as to reduce an interval between two adjacent optical modules 1.

[0064] More particularly, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGURES 1 and 2, the optical module 1 comprises: - a first part 21 in the form of a portion of a cylinder 19, the first optical surface 11 being associated with the first part 21. The first part 21 supports the first optical surface 11 configured to deflect the first light rays R1 coming from the light source 2 with which the optical module 1 is intended to be associated; and - a second part 22 in the form of a plate 18, the first part 21 being connected to the second part 22 via the optical guide 17, the second optical surface 12 being associated with the second part 22. The second part 22 supports the second optical surface 12 configured to deflect the first light rays R1 coming from the first optical surface 11. The second part 22 is therefore positioned downstream of the first part 21, according to the direction of propagation of the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 in the optical module 1.

[0065] In this exemplary embodiment, the cylinder portion 19 forming the first part 21 thus delimits a hollow housing inside which the light source 2 associated with the optical module 1 is intended to be placed. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to efficiently inject the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 generated by the light source 2 into the optical module 1, through the cylindrical portion, both towards the optical guide 17 for the second light rays R2 and the third light rays R3, and towards the first optical surface 11 for the first light rays R1.

[0066] The plate 18 forming the second part 22 extends at a distance from the first part 21 and forms the output face of the optical module 1. The plate 18 advantageously extends in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis 01 of the optical module 1.

[0067] In order to deflect the light rays R1, R2, R3 which pass through them in order to make them more homogeneous and parallel to the optical axis O1, each optical surface of the optical module 1 comprises a set of prisms. Each optical surface thus forms a Fresnel surface or a stepped surface, in order to deflect the light rays R1, R2, R3 coming from the light source 2 along the optical axis O1 while maintaining a limited size of the optical module 1 according to the invention. The prisms forming each optical surface may have variable dimensions depending on their distance from the optical axis O1, so as to produce a deviation adapted to the angle of incidence of the light rays R1, R2, R3 on the corresponding optical surface.

[0068] Of course, in order to optimize the alignment of the light rays R1, R2, R3 with the optical axis O1, the sets of prisms of each optical surface extend in a crossed manner, in order to straighten the light rays R1, R2, R3 in two different directions, and preferably perpendicular to each other, or parallel in order to amplify the straightening of said light rays R1, R2, R3 in a given direction. Thus, the set of prisms associated with the first optical surface 11 extends parallel to a first axis perpendicular to the optical axis 01, and the set of prisms associated with the second optical surface 12 extends parallel to a second axis perpendicular to the optical axis 01. The first axis and the second axis are advantageously parallel to each other and correspond to the thickness of the optical module 1.

[0069] Furthermore, the set of prisms associated with the third optical surface 13 extends parallel to a third axis perpendicular to the optical axis 01, and the set of prisms associated with the fourth optical surface 14 extends parallel to a fourth axis perpendicular to the optical axis 01. The third axis and the fourth axis are advantageously parallel to each other. In order to homogenize the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 at the plate 18 forming the exit face of the optical module 1 - at the second part 22 of said optical module 1 - the third axis and the fourth axes are respectively parallel to the first axis and to the second axis. Thus, the first optical surface 11, the second optical surface 12, the third optical surface 13 and the fourth optical surface 14 are all configured to straighten the corresponding light rays R1, R2, R3 along the width of the optical module 1, i.e. in the plane illustrated in FIGURE 2.

[0070] Thus, the optical module 1 makes it possible - through its different optical surfaces 11 to 16 - to make the light rays R1, R2, R3 substantially parallel to each other and to the optical axis 01. The optical surfaces 11 to 16 therefore transform a set of light rays R1, R2, R3 diverging at the level of the light source 2 into a beam of light rays R1, R2, R3 parallel to each other and to the optical axis 01, but also distributed homogeneously in a direction corresponding to the width of the optical module 17, taken beyond the exit face of the optical module 1. Such a transformation thus makes it possible to straighten the light rays R1, R2, R3 in order to reorient them in a given direction parallel to the optical axis 01 and in order to make the motor vehicle clearly visible to other road users and in particular according to angles imposed by the national legislations in force.

[0071] In order to further improve the alignment of the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 emitted by the light source 2, the optical module 1 also comprises a fifth optical surface 15 configured to deflect all the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 coming from the light source 2. The fifth optical surface 15 is positioned upstream of the first optical surface 11 in the direction of propagation of the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 from the light source 2. The fifth optical surface 15 extends parallel to the first optical surface 11. In particular, the fifth optical surface 15 extends on an inner face of the cylinder portion 19 of the first part 21 of the optical module 1 while the first optical surface 11 extends on an outer face of said cylinder portion 19. The fifth optical surface 15 is therefore turned towards the light source 2.

[0072] The fifth optical surface 15 is configured to straighten all the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 coming from the light source 2 in a fifth direction perpendicular to the first direction. The fifth direction is here parallel to the thickness of the optical module 17. In other words, the fifth optical surface 15 makes it possible to straighten the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 in a plane perpendicular to that illustrated in FIGURE 2. For this purpose, the fifth optical surface 15 comprises a fifth set of reliefs which extend along the inner face of the cylinder portion 19, perpendicular to the prisms forming the first optical surface 11. The fifth optical surface 15 is formed by a set of arcuate lines centered on the same axis, perpendicular to the optical axis 01. These different arcuate lines have radii of different values ​​so as to form steps.The fifth optical surface 15 thus also forming a Fresnel surface or a stepped surface.

[0073] Finally, the optical module 1 may also comprise a sixth optical surface 16 configured to straighten and / or diffuse all the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 coming from either the second optical surface 12 or the optical guide 17. The sixth optical surface 16 forms an upper surface of the plate 18 forming the output face of the optical module 1. The sixth optical surface 16 extends parallel to the second optical surface 12. In particular, the sixth optical surface 16 is arranged on an external face of the second part 22, opposite the face on which the second optical surface 12 is arranged. sixth optical surface 16 may for example comprise a wavy and profiled shape perpendicular to the optical axis 01.

[0074] The optical module 1 according to the invention is rigid. It is not intended to deform during the assembly of the lighting device or during its use. Such optical modules 1 may for example be made of a polymer transparent to the wavelengths of the light rays R1, R2, R3, R4 emitted by the light sources 2, in particular a polycarbonate (PC) or a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Advantageously, the optical modules 1 of a lighting device all have an identical shape in order to facilitate the design of the lighting device, its manufacture and its assembly by facilitating the bringing together of two adjacent optical modules 1. However, in the context of the present invention, it is possible for a lighting device to comprise optical modules 1 of different sizes depending on the desired effects.It is also very easy to manufacture light devices of different sizes by simply varying the number of optical modules 1 that they contain. By way of non-limiting example, a light device according to the invention comprises, for example, a series of at least five optical modules 1 assembled in series and arranged adjacent to each other, in a linear or curved alignment, or even in a two-dimensional plane or curved network. The optical modules 1 are advantageously manufactured by a plastic injection process in an injection mold, which allows them to be manufactured in large quantities and with excellent reproducibility.

[0075] In one embodiment, a flexible light-transmitting member 20 is provided around the outer periphery of the second plate-shaped portion 12 of the optical module 10, as shown in FIG. 3. The flexible light-transmitting member 20 is provided around the side surface of the second plate-shaped portion 12. When assembling a plurality of optical modules 10, the flexible light-transmitting members 20 on adjacent optical modules 10 may fill the gaps between the second plate-shaped portion 12. The dimensions of the flexible light-transmitting member 20 may correspond to the spacing between two neighboring optical modules, i.e., about one to three millimeters. The flexible light-transmitting member 20 is preferably transparent or translucent, and the light can pass through the portion of the flexible light-transmitting member 20 to illuminate the spaces between the second plate-shaped portions 11 of the optical modules 10, improve the overall illumination effect after assembly, and ensure the optical uniformity of the light-transmitting device having a plurality of optical modules 10 after assembly.

[0076] In one embodiment, the flexible light-transmitting element 20 is provided on one side of the plate-shaped second portion 12 of the optical module 10 transversely to the optical axis. When assembling the plurality of optical modules 10, the flexible light-transmitting element connects the light-emitting surfaces of neighboring optical modules 10 to achieve a uniform illumination effect. When linearly assembling the plurality of optical modules 10, the flexible light-transmitting element 20 may be provided only on the side of the second portion 12 of the optical module 10 in contact with the other optical modules 10, or it may be provided on all sides of the second portion 12. When assembling the plurality of optical modules 10 in an array, the flexible light-transmitting element is preferably provided on all sides of the second portion 12 of the optical module 10.

[0077] In one embodiment, the flexible light-transmitting member 20 is preferably made of transparent or semi-transparent TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer), which has good elasticity and strength, as well as excellent optical properties. In order to ensure uniformity of the lighting effect, a certain proportion of diffusion material particles may be added to the flexible light-transmitting member 20 to diffuse the light.

[0078] In another embodiment, the flexible light-transmitting member 20 is made of silicone. Silicone has good light-transmitting properties, such as high transparency and light transmission, as well as good flexibility for bending at any angle.

[0079] Optical microstructures, such as Fresnel surfaces, stepped surfaces, cushions or graining, etc., can also be arranged on the light exit surface of the flexible light-transmitting member 20, so as to change the direction of light passing therethrough, adjust the light distribution and improve the uniformity of the light exit effect.

[0080] In one embodiment, the flexible light-transmitting element 20 may be formed from separate components. Such a design allows the portions of the flexible light-transmitting element to be flexibly adapted and designed as needed. It is easy to adapt its size and design to the needs at the time of assembly.

[0081] In other embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the flexible light-transmitting element 20 may also be integrated into the optical module 10 by an overmolding process. Such a design makes it possible to facilitate the assembly of several optical modules 10 and to achieve cost savings.

[0082] In another embodiment, the light emitting device comprises a separate flexible element 3, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the flexible element 3 having illuminations adapted to mount a second plate-like portion 11 of the optical module 10 for connecting a plurality of optical modules 10 together. In this embodiment, the flexible element 3 has the function not only of flexibly fixing the optical modules 10, but also of changing the direction of the light passing through it, i.e. it has the function of deflecting or homogenizing the light beam.

[0083] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the second plate-shaped portion 12 of the optical module 10 has an asymmetrical structure, i.e., the second plate-shaped portion 12 is asymmetrical with respect to the connection structure of the first portion 11 and the second portion 12. In detail, a side edge of the surface close to the second portion 12 of the surface of the connection structure has a first projection, and a side edge opposite the aforementioned side edge of the surface far from the connection structure has a second projection extending in a direction opposite to the first projection. When the plurality of optical modules 10 are assembled, the first projections and the adjacent second projections overlap in the direction of the optical axis, thereby avoiding areas dark areas caused by gaps between adjacent optical modules 10 and improve the homogeneity of the overall light output effect.

[0084] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the different characteristics, forms, variants and embodiments of the invention can be associated with each other in various combinations to the extent that they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, all the variants and embodiments described above can be combined with each other.

Claims

Claims

1. Optical module (1) for a motor vehicle lighting device, the optical module (1) being configured to collimate a light beam coming from a light source (2) located at a base (10) of the optical module (1) and along an optical axis (01), the optical module (1) comprising: - a first optical surface (11) configured to deflect first light rays (R1) coming from the light source (2); - a second optical surface (12) configured to deflect the first light rays (R1) coming from the first optical surface (11) and propagating in the air between said first optical surface (11) and said second optical surface (12); - an optical guide (17) extending parallel to the optical axis (01) and connecting the first optical surface (11) to the second optical surface (12); characterized in that the optical guide (17) comprises a recess (100) located between the first optical surface (11) and the second optical surface (12), the recess (100) being formed in the optical guide (17) and being delimited by a third optical surface (13) proximal to the first optical surface (11) and a fourth optical surface (14), proximal to the second optical surface (12), the third optical surface (13) and / or the fourth optical surface (14) being configured to distribute second light rays (R2) which propagate in the optical guide (17) towards a part of the optical guide (17) opposite the first optical surface (11).

2. Optical module (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the optical guide (17) has a thickness, corresponding to the smallest dimension of said optical guide (17) taken in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (17), small with respect to a length of said optical guide (17) taken parallel to the optical axis (17) and a width, taken simultaneously perpendicular to the length and to the thickness.

3. Optical module (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein, in a direction parallel to the optical axis (01), the optical guide (17) has a flared shape in the direction of the second optical surface (12), the width of the optical guide (17) taken at the level of the first optical surface (11) being less than the width taken at the level of the second optical surface (12).

4. An optical module (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the optical module (1) comprises: - a first part (21) in the form of a portion of a cylinder (19), the first optical surface (11) being associated with the first part (21); and - a second part (22) in the form of a plate (18), the first part (21) being connected to the second part (22) via the optical guide (17), the second optical surface (12) being associated with the second part (22).

5. An optical module (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the first optical surface (11) comprises a first set of prisms extending parallel to a first axis perpendicular to the optical axis (01), and the second optical surface (12) comprises a second set of prisms extending parallel to a second axis perpendicular to the optical axis (01).

6. Optical module (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first axis and the second axis are parallel.

7. An optical module (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the third optical surface (13) and / or the fourth optical surface (14) respectively comprise a third set of prisms and a fourth set of prisms, the third set of prisms and the fourth set of prisms extending parallel to a third axis perpendicular to the optical axis (01).

8. Optical module (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the third axis is parallel to the first axis.

9. An optical module (1) according to any preceding claim taken in combination with claim 4, wherein a width of the recess (100) is identical to that of the cylinder portion (19) forming the first part (21) of the optical module (1).

10. A lighting device for a motor vehicle, the lighting device comprising: - a support; - at least one light source (2) fixed to the support; - at least one optical module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the base (10) of each optical module (1) being in contact with the support, on either side of one of the at least one light source (2).

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