Vehicle lamp apparatus and vehicle

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of vehicle lamps and provide a vehicle lamp apparatus and a vehicle. The vehicle lamp apparatus and the vehicle both comprise a heating device, a first cavity, a second cavity, a liquid cooling plate, and a lamp housing. At least part of the first cavity is formed by means of the lamp housing, the second cavity is provided inside the first cavity, and the heating device is provided in the second cavity. The liquid cooling plate is used for performing heat dissipation on the heating device, and comprises a first housing of an integrated structure and a second housing provided with a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet; the first housing is connected to the second housing to form a third cavity for accommodating a cooling medium; the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet are respectively communicated with the interior and exterior of the third cavity; the second housing and a joint of the second housing and the first housing are both located outside the first cavity. Such a configuration can solve the leakage problem and mitigate the condensation problem, thereby improving the reliability of the vehicle lamp apparatus.

Description

Vehicle lighting devices and vehicles

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410520105.3, filed on April 24, 2024, entitled "Vehicle Lighting Device and Vehicle", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of vehicle lighting technology, and in particular to a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0003] Currently, automotive lights consist of a housing, a projection device, and a liquid cooling system. The projection device, installed inside the housing, serves both lighting and projection needs. The liquid cooling system, also inside the housing, includes a liquid cooling plate, an inlet pipe, and an outlet pipe. The liquid cooling plate is connected to the vehicle's liquid cooling circuit system via these pipes. The cooling medium within the plate exchanges heat with heat-generating components such as the light source and imaging devices inside the housing, keeping their temperatures within a reasonable range and improving the light's reliability. However, liquid cooling systems suffer from condensation and leakage issues, leading to lower reliability in automotive lights. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle that can solve leakage and improve condensation, thereby increasing the reliability of the vehicle lighting device.

[0005] This application provides a vehicle lighting device, including a heat-generating device, a first cavity, a second cavity, a liquid-cooled plate, and a lamp housing. At least a portion of the first cavity is formed by the lamp housing. The second cavity is disposed inside the first cavity, and the heat-generating device is disposed within the second cavity. The liquid-cooled plate is used to dissipate heat from the heat-generating device. The liquid-cooled plate includes a first housing and a second housing having an inlet and an outlet. The first and second housings are connected to form a third cavity for containing a cooling medium. The inlet and outlet communicate with the interior and exterior of the third cavity, respectively. The second housing and the connection point between the second housing and the first housing are both located outside the first cavity.

[0006] The second housing is located outside the first cavity, so the liquid inlet and outlet are also located outside the first cavity. Therefore, by placing the connection between the first and second housings, the liquid inlet, and the liquid outlet outside the first cavity—that is, by placing the leakage points on the liquid cooling plate that are prone to leaking cooling medium outside the first cavity—it is possible to prevent the cooling medium from leaking into the interior of the first cavity from these points, thus avoiding any impact on the components inside the first cavity and improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device.

[0007] Since the second housing and its connection point with the first housing are located inside the first cavity, at least a portion of the liquid cooling plate is located outside the first cavity. Condensation generated by the portion of the liquid cooling plate outside the first cavity is also located outside the first cavity, thus not affecting the components inside the first and second cavities, improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device. Furthermore, by placing the condensation-sensitive heating components inside the second cavity, the moisture concentration within the second cavity can be maintained within a reasonable range, preventing condensation and ensuring the normal operation of the heating components within the second cavity, thereby further improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the vehicle lighting device further includes a moisture control element disposed within the second cavity, which is used to absorb moisture within the second cavity.

[0009] In this way, by absorbing moisture in the second cavity through the humidity control component, the moisture concentration in the second cavity can be further reduced, and the probability of condensation in the second cavity can be further reduced. This allows the heating device in the second cavity to operate in more demanding scenarios, which helps to further improve the reliability of the vehicle lighting device.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the humidity control element has an absorption state and a release state. When the humidity control element is in the absorption state, it absorbs moisture from the second cavity. When the humidity control element is in the release state, it releases moisture into the second cavity.

[0011] In this way, when the concentration in the second chamber is lower than the preset threshold, the humidity control component will switch from the absorption state to the release state. The humidity control component can release moisture more slowly and stabilize the surrounding temperature environment. On the one hand, it can prevent condensation from forming inside the second chamber. On the other hand, the humidity control component can switch back to the absorption state and absorb moisture from the second chamber again, so that the humidity control component can be used repeatedly.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the first housing is an integral structure.

[0013] In this way, the leakage points on the liquid cooling plate that are prone to leakage can all be located outside the first cavity, which can prevent the cooling medium from leaking into the interior of the first cavity through the leakage points on the liquid cooling plate, and can further improve the reliability of the vehicle lighting device.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the lamp housing includes a front shell, a rear cover, and a flexible connector. The front shell is connected to the rear cover via the flexible connector. The front shell, the rear cover, and the flexible connector form a first cavity. A liquid cooling plate is disposed outside the first cavity and is fixedly connected to the rear cover.

[0015] By placing the liquid cooling plate outside the lamp housing, leakage of the cooling medium can be prevented from affecting the internal components of the lamp housing, and condensation generated by the liquid cooling plate can also be prevented from affecting the internal components, thus further improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device. Additionally, the flexible connection allows the rear cover to swing relative to the lamp housing, enabling the projection device to swing and adjust its angle relative to the lamp housing when it is included in or fixed to the rear cover.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the back cover is fitted to the heating element in the second cavity, and the cooling medium in the liquid cooling plate exchanges heat with the heating element in the second cavity through the back cover.

[0017] This reduces the heat exchange path between the heating element and the cooling medium in the second cavity, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency and heat dissipation.

[0018] In one possible implementation, at least a portion of the back cover serves as part of the cavity wall of the second cavity.

[0019] This reduces the number of parts in the lighting system, simplifying its structure. Simultaneously, the moisture control components absorb moisture from the second chamber, preventing condensation that occurs when the rear cover contacts the liquid cooling plate.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the lamp housing includes a front housing and a flexible connector, the front housing being connected to a first housing via the flexible connector, and the front housing, the flexible connector, and the first housing forming a first cavity.

[0021] By placing the liquid cooling plate on the outside of the lamp housing, condensation from the liquid cooling plate can be prevented from affecting the internal components of the lamp housing, further improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device. Additionally, when the projection module is fixedly connected to the first housing, the projection module can sway relative to the lamp housing via a flexible connector, allowing for angle adjustment when the projection device includes the rear cover.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the heating device in the second cavity is fitted to the first housing.

[0023] This reduces the thermal resistance between the cooling medium and the heat-generating device, which helps improve the heat dissipation capacity of the heat-generating device.

[0024] In one possible implementation, at least a portion of the first housing serves as part of the cavity wall of the second cavity.

[0025] In this way, the liquid cooling plate can dissipate heat from the heat-generating components on the one hand, and form a second cavity on the other hand to reduce the number of parts in the vehicle lighting device, which helps to improve heat dissipation efficiency.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the vehicle lighting device further includes at least one of a first annular seal and a second annular seal. The first annular seal is disposed between the front housing and a first end of the flexible connector and abuts against both the front housing and the flexible connector. The second annular seal is disposed between a second end of the flexible connector and a rear cover and abuts against both the rear cover and the flexible connector; alternatively, the second annular seal is disposed between a second end of the flexible connector and a first housing and abuts against both the first housing and the flexible connector.

[0027] This improves the sealing performance between the front shell and the flexible connector, further enhancing the sealing performance of the first cavity. Additionally, it improves the sealing performance between the flexible connector and the rear cover or the first shell, further enhancing the sealing performance of the first cavity.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the vehicle lighting device further includes a vent and a through hole, the through hole connecting the first cavity and the second cavity, the vent being disposed at the through hole, and the gas in the first cavity exchanging with the gas in the second cavity through the vent.

[0029] In this way, the first chamber can exchange gases with the second chamber through the vent, meaning that gas in the first chamber can enter the second chamber through the vent, or vice versa, maintaining pressure balance between the two chambers. Additionally, when the moisture concentration in the second chamber is higher than that in the first chamber, moisture from the second chamber can also enter the first chamber through the vent, helping to prevent condensation in the second chamber.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the vehicle lighting device further includes a projection device, which comprises a lens, a third housing, an imaging device, and a second cavity. At least a portion of the imaging device is disposed within the second cavity, and the imaging device is used to generate an imaging beam directed towards the lens. The lens is mounted on the third housing and is used to project the imaging beam to the outside of the first cavity. The third housing is disposed within the first cavity and is a portion of the cavity wall of the second cavity.

[0031] In this way, the vehicle's lighting system can not only provide illumination but also project a picture.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the imaging device includes a light source and an imaging element. At least a portion of the light source is disposed inside a second cavity. At least a portion of the imaging element is disposed inside the second cavity, and the imaging element is used to generate an imaging beam based on the light beam emitted by the light source and project it onto a lens.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the imaging device is a display that emits an imaging beam toward the lens.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the third housing is connected to the first housing, and the lens, the third housing, and the first housing form a second cavity. Alternatively, the third housing is used to connect to the rear cover, and the lens, the third housing, and the rear cover form a second cavity.

[0035] This not only creates a second cavity but also reduces the number of parts in the headlight assembly. Additionally, the angle of the projection device can be adjusted.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the projection device further includes a control device disposed within the first cavity, the control device being used to control the projection device to emit an imaging beam, or the control device being used to be electrically connected to a controller, the control device and the controller being used to control the projection device to emit an imaging beam.

[0037] In this way, the projection device has at least some control functions, which can control the projection device to emit an imaging beam.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the control device is fixedly connected to the third housing, and the control device includes a fourth housing and a control unit, which is disposed inside the fourth housing and electrically connected to the imaging device.

[0039] In this way, by connecting the imaging device to the vehicle's controller through a control device, the integration of the vehicle lighting system can be improved.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the control device further includes a first connector and a second connector, which are spaced apart along the axial direction of the lens. The first connector and the lens are located on the same side of the third housing, and the second connector and the liquid cooling plate are located on the same side of the third housing.

[0041] In this way, while ensuring the connection between the control device and the external device, the size of the vehicle lighting device in the direction perpendicular to the lens axis can be reduced, which helps to miniaturize the vehicle lighting device.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the vehicle lighting device includes a vent connected to a third housing in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the lens. A control device is spaced apart from the vent, and the projection of the control device covers the vent and the projection of the control device covers the liquid cooling plate.

[0043] This reduces the size of the headlight assembly in the direction perpendicular to the lens axis, which helps to miniaturize the headlight assembly.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the vehicle lighting device further includes at least one of a third annular seal and a fourth annular seal. The third annular seal is fitted onto the outer wall of the lens and abuts against both the lens and the third housing. The fourth annular seal is disposed between the third housing and the first housing and abuts against both the third housing and the first housing; alternatively, the fourth annular seal is disposed between the third housing and the rear cover and abuts against both the rear cover and the third housing.

[0045] This improves the sealing performance between the lens and the third housing, further enhancing the sealing performance of the second cavity. Additionally, it improves the sealing performance between the third housing and the first housing or rear cover, further enhancing the sealing performance of the second cavity.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the heating device is a light source, an imaging device, or a circuit board.

[0047] The second aspect of this application provides a vehicle including a liquid cooling circuit system and a vehicle lighting device as described in any of the first aspects. The vehicle lighting device includes a liquid cooling plate, the inlet and outlet of which are respectively connected to the liquid cooling circuit system. The liquid cooling circuit system includes a radiator for cooling the cooling medium in the liquid cooling circuit system.

[0048] Secondly, the headlight assembly shares a liquid cooling cycle with the entire vehicle, eliminating the need for a separate cooling system. This reduces the size and weight of the headlight assembly, allows for downgrading of headlight specifications, and improves production efficiency.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the liquid cooling plate is connected in series with the liquid cooling circuit system, or the liquid cooling plate is connected in parallel with the liquid cooling circuit system.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the vehicle also includes a flow control valve connected between the liquid cooling plate and the liquid cooling circuit system.

[0051] In this way, the flow regulating valve can regulate the flow rate of the cooling medium into the liquid cooling plate of the headlight device. By controlling the flow rate of the cooling medium, precise temperature control can be achieved, thereby preventing fogging caused by excessively low temperature inside the headlight device. Attached Figure Description

[0052] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a vehicle lamp in the related technology;

[0053] Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of a means of transportation provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a means of transportation provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first type of vehicle lighting device provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of point A in Figure 4;

[0057] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of point B in Figure 4;

[0058] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the flexible connector shown in Figure 4;

[0059] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of another flexible connector provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 9 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the vehicle lighting device shown in Figure 4 with the lamp housing removed;

[0061] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of another vehicle lighting device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 11 is an enlarged schematic diagram of point A in Figure 10.

[0063] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100, Vehicle; 200, Vehicle lighting device; 300, Liquid cooling circuit system; 310, Water tank; 320, Water pump; 340, Radiator; 350, Liquid inlet pipe; 360, Liquid outlet pipe; 400, Component requiring heat dissipation; 500, Projection device; 510, Lens; 520, Imaging device; 530, Light source; 531, Substrate; 532, Light-emitting element; 540, Third housing; 550, Reflective element; 560, Fifth annular seal; 10, Heating element; 20, Humidity control element; 30, First cavity; 40, Second cavity; 50, Liquid cooling plate; 51, First housing; 52, Second housing; 53, Third cavity; 54, Liquid outlet; 55, Liquid inlet; 60, Lamp housing; 61, Front housing; 62, Flexible connector; 621, Corrugated pipe structure; 63, Rear cover; 71. Ventilation element; 72. Through hole; 80. Control device; 81. Control unit; 82. First housing; 83. Second housing; 84. Fourth cavity; 85. First connector; 86. Second connector; 87. Fourth housing; 91. First annular seal; 92. Second annular seal; 93. Third annular seal; 94. Fourth annular seal. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a vehicle lamp in the related art. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle lamp in the related art includes a housing 610, a projection device 620, and a liquid cooling device 630. The projection device 620 is used to meet lighting and projection requirements and is installed inside the housing 610. The liquid cooling device 630 includes a liquid cooling plate 631, an inlet pipe 632, and an outlet pipe 633. The liquid cooling plate 631 is installed inside the housing 610 and is connected to the liquid cooling circuit system 700 on the vehicle through the inlet pipe 632 and the outlet pipe 633. The liquid cooling plate 631 is in contact with the heat-generating components 621 such as the light source and imaging device in the projection device 620. The cooling medium inside the liquid cooling plate 631 (as shown by the arrow in Figure 1) is used to exchange heat with the heat-generating components 621 such as the light source and imaging device inside the housing 610, keeping the temperature of the heat-generating components 621 within a reasonable range and improving the reliability of the vehicle lamp.

[0065] However, because the temperature of the cooling medium is lower than the temperature inside the housing 610, and the temperature of the components in contact with or indirectly in contact with the cooling medium is low, condensation will occur when the hot air inside the housing 610 encounters components with lower wall temperatures. This will reduce the performance of heat-generating components 621 such as the light source and imaging device, or damage the light source, imaging device, and other heat-generating components 621, thus reducing the reliability of the vehicle lighting device. In addition, the cooling medium is prone to leakage from the welds and pipe joints of the liquid cooling plate 631, affecting the inside of the vehicle lighting and reducing its reliability.

[0066] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a vehicle lighting device 200 and a vehicle 100. By placing leakage points such as the weld seam, inlet 55, and outlet 54 of the liquid cooling plate 50 on the outside of the lamp housing 60 of the vehicle lighting device 200, leakage of the cooling medium into the interior of the lamp housing 60 can be prevented, thus avoiding impact on the components inside the lamp housing 60 and improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200. Furthermore, by placing at least a portion of the liquid cooling plate 50 on the outside of the lamp housing 60, condensation generated by the liquid cooling plate 50 can be prevented from affecting the components inside the lamp housing 60, further improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200. In addition, a second cavity 40 is provided inside the lamp housing 60, and the condensation-sensitive heating element 10 is placed inside the second cavity 40. The humidity inside the second cavity 40 is controlled by a humidity control element 20 to prevent condensation from forming inside the second cavity 40, ensuring the normal operation of the heating element 10 inside the second cavity 40 and improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0067] The means of transportation 100 may include, but is not limited to, known means of transportation such as automobiles, airplanes, ships, and trains. Additionally, the means of transportation 100 provided in this application embodiment may also be a future-developing means of transportation 100. The automobile may be an electric vehicle, a gasoline-powered vehicle, or a hybrid vehicle, such as a pure electric vehicle, a range-extended electric vehicle, a new energy vehicle, a fuel cell vehicle, or a hybrid electric vehicle. Exemplarily, in this application embodiment, an automobile is used as an example of the aforementioned means of transportation 100, as shown in Figure 2. Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of a means of transportation provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0068] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a means of transportation provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0069] As shown in Figure 3, the vehicle 100 includes a liquid cooling circuit system 300, which is used to dissipate heat from components 400 that require heat dissipation, such as the motor, motor control unit (MCU), onboard charger (OBC), and DC-DC converter.

[0070] For example, as shown in FIG3, the liquid cooling circuit system 300 may include a reservoir 310, a water pump 320, and a radiator 340. The radiator 340 is used to cool the cooling medium in the liquid cooling circuit system 300. The reservoir 310 can expel air from the liquid cooling circuit system 300 and replenish the cooling medium. The water pump 320 provides power to the cooling medium, causing it to circulate within the liquid cooling circuit system 300. After passing through the component 400 requiring heat dissipation, the cooling medium cools the component 400 through heat exchange. The heated cooling medium then flows into the radiator 340. A fan may also be installed in the radiator 340. The radiator 340 can cool the cooling medium through natural air convection, forced convection by the fan, or refrigerant from the vehicle, allowing the cooling medium to re-cool the component 400 requiring heat dissipation.

[0071] The cooling medium can be distilled water, deionized water, or other liquid coolant. It should be understood that the connection methods for the heat dissipation components 400, water tank 310, water pump 320, and radiator 340 are not limited to those shown in Figure 3.

[0072] As shown in Figure 3, the vehicle 100 also includes a lighting device 200, which includes headlights, taillights, and other decorative lights. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the lighting device 200 is a headlight. The lighting device 200 has heat-generating components 10 such as a light source 530, an imaging device 520, and a circuit board. In order to ensure that the performance of the lighting device 200 is within a reasonable range, it is also necessary to dissipate heat from the heat-generating components 10 so that their temperature is within a reasonable range.

[0073] For example, as shown in FIG3, the heat-generating device 10 in the vehicle lighting device 200 can be cooled by the liquid cooling circuit system 300. The vehicle lighting device 200 shares the same liquid cooling circuit system 300 with the whole vehicle. The vehicle lighting device 200 does not need a separate cooling system, which can reduce the size and weight of the vehicle lighting device 200, and the vehicle lighting specifications can be downgraded, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0074] For example, as shown in FIG3, the vehicle lighting device 200 includes a liquid cooling plate 50, which is used to dissipate heat from the heat-generating device 10. The liquid cooling plate 50 can be in direct or indirect contact with the heat-generating device 10. The liquid cooling plate 50 has an outlet 54 and an inlet 55, which are connected to a liquid cooling circuit system 300. The inlet 55 supplies cooling medium from the liquid cooling circuit system 300 into the liquid cooling plate 50, and the outlet 54 supplies cooling medium from the liquid cooling plate 50 into the liquid cooling circuit system 300. In this way, the cooling medium in the liquid cooling plate 50 can exchange heat with the heat-generating device 10. The cooling medium heated by the heat-generating device 10 enters the liquid cooling circuit system 300 from the outlet 54 to carry away the heat generated by the heat-generating device 10, keeping the temperature of the heat-generating device 10 within a reasonable range.

[0075] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG3, the liquid cooling circuit system 300 may further include an inlet pipe 350 and an outlet pipe 360. The inlet pipe 350 is connected to the inlet port 55, and the outlet pipe 360 ​​is connected to the outlet port 54. The cooling medium circulates between the liquid cooling plate 50 and the liquid cooling circuit system 300 through the outlet pipe 360 ​​and the outlet pipe 360. In other embodiments, the vehicle lighting device 200 may further include an inlet pipe 350 and an outlet pipe 360. One end of the inlet pipe 350 is connected to the inlet port 55, and the other end of the inlet pipe 350 is connected to the liquid cooling circuit system 300. One end of the outlet pipe 360 ​​is connected to the outlet port 54, and the other end of the outlet pipe 360 ​​is connected to the liquid cooling circuit system 300. The cooling medium circulates between the liquid cooling plate 50 and the liquid cooling circuit system 300 through the outlet pipe 360 ​​and the outlet pipe 360.

[0076] In some possible implementations, the liquid cooling plate 50 and the liquid cooling circuit system 300 can be connected in series. In other possible implementations, as shown in Figure 3, the liquid cooling plate 50 and the liquid cooling circuit system 300 can also be connected in parallel.

[0077] In some possible implementations, the vehicle 100 may also include a flow control valve (not shown) connected between the liquid cooling plate 50 and the liquid cooling circuit system 300. In this way, the flow control valve can regulate the flow rate of the cooling medium into the liquid cooling plate 50 of the lighting device 200, achieving precise temperature control by controlling the flow rate of the cooling medium, thereby preventing fogging problems caused by excessively low temperatures within the lighting device 200.

[0078] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first type of vehicle lighting device provided in the embodiment of this application, Figure 5 is an enlarged schematic diagram of point A in Figure 4, and Figure 6 is an enlarged schematic diagram of point B in Figure 4.

[0079] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the vehicle lighting device 200 includes a heat-generating device 10, a first cavity 30, a second cavity 40, a liquid cooling plate 50, and a lamp housing 60. At least a portion of the first cavity 30 is formed through the lamp housing 60. The second cavity 40 is disposed inside the first cavity 30, and the heat-generating device 10 is disposed within the second cavity 40. The liquid cooling plate 50 is used to dissipate heat from the heat-generating device 10. The liquid cooling plate 50 includes a first housing 51 and a second housing 52 having a liquid inlet 55 and a liquid outlet 54. The first housing 51 and the second housing 52 are connected to form a third cavity 53 that contains a cooling medium. The liquid inlet 55 and the liquid outlet 54 communicate with the interior and exterior of the third cavity 53, respectively. The second housing 52 and the connection point between the second housing 52 and the first housing 51 (as shown by C in Figure 5) are both located outside the first cavity 30.

[0080] The first housing 51 is a single, integral structure, thus eliminating any points of leakage for the cooling medium. The second housing 52 is located outside the first cavity 30, meaning the inlet 55 and outlet 54 are also located outside the first cavity 30. Therefore, by placing the connection between the first housing 51 and the second housing 52, the inlet 55, and the outlet 54 outside the first cavity 30—that is, by placing the leakage points on the liquid cooling plate 50 that are prone to cooling medium leakage outside the first cavity 30—it is possible to prevent the cooling medium from leaking into the interior of the first cavity 30 from these locations, thereby avoiding any impact on the components within the first cavity 30 and improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0081] Since the second housing 52 and the connection between the second housing 52 and the first housing 51 are located inside the first cavity 30, at least a portion of the liquid cooling plate 50 is located outside the first cavity 30. Condensation generated by the portion of the liquid cooling plate 50 located outside the first cavity 30 is located outside the first cavity 30 and will not affect the components inside the first cavity 30 and the second cavity 40, thus improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200. Furthermore, by placing the condensation-sensitive heating element 10 inside the second cavity 40, the moisture concentration inside the second cavity 40 can be maintained within a reasonable range, preventing condensation from forming inside the second cavity 40. This ensures the normal operation of the heating element 10 inside the second cavity 40, thereby improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0082] Understandably, the second cavity 40 has good sealing performance. The second cavity 40 is equivalent to a sealed space. The moisture concentration inside the second cavity 40 can remain constant or change only slightly. Therefore, condensation is not easily generated inside the second cavity 40, and the heating device 10 inside the second cavity 40 can work normally.

[0083] It should be noted that, in addition to the second cavity 40, a heating device 10 may also be installed in the first cavity 30 (not shown in the figure).

[0084] The specific type of heating device 10 is not limited here. Among them, the heating device 10 can be a light source 530, an imaging device 520, a circuit board, or other devices.

[0085] The type of heating device 10 within the second cavity 40 is not limited here. For example, as shown in FIG4, the heating device 10 within the second cavity 40 is a light source 530, an imaging device 520, or a circuit board. Furthermore, the number of heating devices 10 within the second cavity 40 can be multiple or one. For example, as shown in FIG4, the number of heating devices 10 within the second cavity 40 is two; however, the number of heating devices 10 can also exceed two.

[0086] In some possible implementations, as shown in Figure 4, the vehicle lighting device 200 may also include a moisture control element 20 disposed inside the second cavity 40, which is used to absorb moisture inside the second cavity 40.

[0087] In this way, by absorbing the moisture in the second cavity 40 through the humidity control component 20, the moisture concentration in the second cavity 40 can be further reduced, and the probability of condensation in the second cavity 40 can be further reduced. This allows the heating device 10 in the second cavity 40 to work in more demanding scenarios, which helps to further improve the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0088] In some embodiments, the humidity control element 20 may have an absorption state and a release state. When the humidity control element 20 is in the absorption state, it absorbs moisture from the second cavity 40. When the humidity control element 20 is in the release state, it releases moisture into the second cavity 40.

[0089] In this way, when the concentration in the second cavity 40 is lower than the preset threshold, the humidity control element 20 will switch from the absorption state to the release state. The humidity control element 20 can release moisture slowly and stabilize the surrounding temperature environment. On the one hand, it can prevent condensation from forming inside the second cavity 40. On the other hand, the humidity control element 20 can switch back to the absorption state and absorb moisture in the second cavity 40 again, so that the humidity control element 20 can be used repeatedly.

[0090] Understandably, the moisture control element 20 is made of a moisture-controlling material that can absorb or release moisture.

[0091] The number of humidity control components 20 can be one or more, and there is no specific limitation here. For example, as shown in Figure 4, the number of humidity control components 20 is one.

[0092] In some embodiments, the humidity control element 20 may be disposed near the heating device 10, which helps to absorb the moisture near the heating device 10 in a timely manner and avoids condensation near the heating device 10.

[0093] In some implementations, as shown in Figure 4, the first housing 51 can be an integral structure. In this way, the leakage points on the liquid cooling plate 50 that are prone to leakage can be located outside the first cavity 30, which can prevent the cooling medium from leaking into the interior of the first cavity 30 through the leakage points on the liquid cooling plate 50, and can further improve the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0094] However, in some other implementations, the first housing 51 can also be assembled from multiple parts, for example, the first housing 51 can be welded together from two parts.

[0095] In some implementations, as shown in Figure 4, the second housing 52 can be an integral structure, which can further reduce leakage points on the liquid cooling plate 50 and further improve the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0096] However, in some other implementations, the second housing 52 can also be assembled from multiple parts, for example, the second housing 52 can be welded together from two parts.

[0097] For example, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the cavity wall of the first cavity 30 is the lamp housing 60, that is, the lamp housing 60 forms the first cavity 30.

[0098] For example, referring to Figures 4 and 5, the lamp housing 60 may include a front housing 61, a rear cover 63, and a flexible connector 62. The front housing 61 is connected to the rear cover 63 via the flexible connector 62, and the front housing 61, the rear cover 63, and the flexible connector 62 form a first cavity 30. The liquid cooling plate 50 is disposed outside the first cavity 30 and fixedly connected to the rear cover 63.

[0099] By placing the liquid cooling plate 50 on the outside of the lamp housing 60, leakage of the cooling medium can be prevented from affecting the internal components of the lamp housing 60, and condensation generated by the liquid cooling plate 50 can also be prevented from affecting the internal components of the lamp housing 60, thereby further improving the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200. Furthermore, the flexible connection allows the rear cover 63 to swing relative to the lamp housing 60, so that when the projection device 500 includes or is fixed to the rear cover 63, the projection device 500 can swing relative to the lamp housing 60 and adjust its angle.

[0100] It should be noted that, in addition to being fixedly connected to the rear cover 63, the liquid cooling plate 50 can also be fixedly connected to other devices, which will not be described in detail here.

[0101] Referring to Figure 4, the front shell 61 is similar to a cylindrical structure. One end of the flexible connector 62 is connected to the opening of the front shell 61, and the other end of the flexible connector 62 is connected to the rear cover 63. In addition, the flexible connector 62 is a ring structure, that is, the flexible connector 62 is a tubular structure with both ends open.

[0102] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the flexible connector shown in Figure 4, and Figure 8 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of another flexible connector provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0103] The specific structure of the flexible connector 62 is not limited here. For example, as shown in Figure 7, the flexible connector 62 can be an elastically deformable annular connector; that is, the flexible connector 62 is made of an elastically deformable material and has a hollow structure. Alternatively, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the flexible connector 62 can be a corrugated tube structure 621, as shown in Figure 8, where a portion of the flexible connector 62 is a corrugated tube structure 621. Of course, the entire flexible connector 62 can also be a corrugated tube structure 621, which can deform, causing the flexible connector 62 to deform as well. Of course, the flexible connector 62 can also have other structures, which will not be described in detail here.

[0104] In some embodiments, the liquid cooling plate 50 can be indirectly attached to the heating device 10, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, the liquid cooling plate 50 is indirectly attached to the heating device 10 through the rear cover 63. In other embodiments, the liquid cooling plate 50 can also be attached to the heating device 10, that is, the liquid cooling plate 50 is in direct contact with the heating device 10.

[0105] In some embodiments, a thermal interface layer (not shown in the figure) may be provided between the rear cover 63 and the liquid cooling plate 50. The thermal interface layer is used to reduce the thermal resistance between the rear cover 63 and the liquid cooling plate 50, which can improve the heat exchange efficiency between the rear cover 63 and the liquid cooling plate 50.

[0106] In some embodiments, exemplarily referring to Figures 5 and 6, the rear cover 63 may be fitted to the heating element 10 within the second cavity 40, and the cooling medium within the liquid cooling plate 50 exchanges heat with the heating element 10 within the second cavity 40 through the rear cover 63. In other embodiments, the rear cover 63 may also be indirectly fitted to the heating element 10 within the second cavity 40; that is, the vehicle lighting device 200 may further include a first heat-conducting element (not shown in the figures), with a first side of the first heat-conducting element fitted to the heating element 10 within the second cavity 40 and a second side of the first heat-conducting element fitted to the rear cover 63.

[0107] In summary, the rear cover 63 is directly or indirectly attached to the heating element 10 inside the second cavity 40, and the cooling medium can exchange heat with the heating element 10 and remove heat. However, when the rear cover 63 is directly attached to the heating element 10 inside the second cavity 40, the heat exchange path between the heating element 10 and the cooling medium inside the second cavity 40 can be shortened, thereby improving heat exchange efficiency and heat dissipation effect of the heating element 10.

[0108] When multiple heating elements 10 are provided in the second cavity 40, the rear cover 63 can be directly attached to each heating element 10 in the second cavity 40, or it can be directly attached to a portion of the multiple heating elements 10 and indirectly attached to another portion. Similarly, when multiple heating elements 10 are provided in the first cavity 30, the rear cover 63 can be directly attached to each heating element 10 in the first cavity 30, or it can be directly attached to a portion of the multiple heating elements 10 and indirectly attached to another portion.

[0109] In some possible implementations, at least a portion of the back cover 63 may serve as part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40. For example, referring to Figures 4 and 5, a portion of the back cover 63 forms part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40. Of course, the back cover 63 may also form part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40.

[0110] By having at least a portion of the rear cover 63 serve as part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40, the utilization rate of the rear cover 63 can be improved, while the number of parts in the lighting device 200 can be reduced, thus simplifying the structure of the lighting device 200. Furthermore, the rear cover 63 is in contact with the liquid cooling plate 50, resulting in a low temperature for the rear cover 63. The moisture control element 20 can absorb moisture within the second cavity 40, preventing condensation on the surface of the rear cover 63 and further improving the reliability of the lighting device 200.

[0111] In some possible implementations, the vehicle lighting device 200 may further include at least one of a first annular seal 91 and a second annular seal 92, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, where the vehicle lighting device 200 may include a first annular seal 91 and a second annular seal 92. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the vehicle lighting device 200 may also include one of a first annular seal 91 and a second annular seal 92.

[0112] As shown in Figure 4, the first annular seal 91 is disposed between the first end of the front shell 61 and the flexible connector 62 and abuts against the front shell 61 and the flexible connector 62 respectively, which can improve the sealing performance between the front shell 61 and the flexible connector 62 and further improve the sealing performance of the first cavity 30.

[0113] As shown in Figure 5, the second annular seal 92 is disposed between the second end of the flexible connector 62 and the rear cover 63 and abuts against the rear cover 63 and the flexible connector 62 respectively, which can improve the sealing performance between the flexible connector 62 and the rear cover 63 and further improve the sealing performance of the first cavity 30.

[0114] The specific material of the first annular seal 91 is not shown here. For example, the first annular seal 91 can be an annular foam structure. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first annular seal 91 can also be a structure formed by dispensing adhesive. Or, in still other embodiments, the first annular seal 91 can also be a structure formed by welding.

[0115] In some embodiments, the first annular seal 91 and the flexible connector 62 are an integral structure, that is, the first annular seal 91 can be a part of the flexible connector 62. In this way, there is no need to set a separate sealing part, which can reduce the number of parts of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0116] The specific material of the second annular seal 92 is not shown here. For example, the second annular seal 92 can be an annular foam structure. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the second annular seal 92 can also be a structure formed by dispensing adhesive. Or, in still other embodiments, the first annular seal 91 can also be a structure formed by welding.

[0117] In some embodiments, the second annular seal 92 and the flexible connector 62 are an integral structure, that is, the second annular seal 92 can be a part of the flexible connector 62. In this way, there is no need to set a separate sealing part, which can reduce the number of parts of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0118] In some possible implementations, as shown in Figure 4, the vehicle lighting device 200 may also include a vent 71 and a through hole 72. The through hole 72 connects the first cavity 30 and the second cavity 40. The vent 71 is disposed at the through hole 72, and the gas in the first cavity 30 exchanges with the gas in the second cavity 40 through the vent 71.

[0119] In this way, the first cavity 30 can exchange gases with the second cavity 40 through the vent 71. That is, gas in the first cavity 30 enters the second cavity 40 through the vent 71, or gas in the second cavity 40 enters the first cavity 30 through the vent 71, thus maintaining pressure balance in the first cavity 30 and the second cavity 40. Furthermore, when the moisture concentration in the second cavity 40 is greater than that in the first cavity 30, moisture in the second cavity 40 can also enter the first cavity 30 through the vent 71, helping to prevent condensation in the second cavity 40.

[0120] The specific structure of the vent 71 is not limited here. For example, the vent 71 can be a vent valve that allows gas to pass through but prevents liquid water from passing through.

[0121] As shown in Figure 4, the vent 71 is inserted inside the through hole 72. However, in some embodiments, the vent 71 may also be disposed outside the second cavity 40 and cover the through hole 72. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the vent 71 may also be disposed inside the second cavity 40 and cover the through hole 72.

[0122] To meet projection requirements, as shown in Figure 4, the vehicle lighting device 200 also includes a projection device 500. The projection device 500 is used to emit an imaging beam that forms an image towards the outside of the first cavity 30 (as indicated by the arrow in Figure 4). The projection device 500 includes a lens 510, a third housing 240, an imaging device, and a second cavity 40. At least a portion of the imaging device is disposed inside the second cavity 40, and the imaging device is used to generate an imaging beam directed towards the lens 510. The lens 510 is mounted on the third housing 540, and the lens 510 is used to project the imaging beam to the outside of the first cavity 30. The third housing 540 is disposed inside the first cavity 30, and the third housing 540 is a portion of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40.

[0123] The specific structure of the imaging device is not limited here. In some implementations, as shown in Figure 4, the imaging device may include a light source 530 and an imaging device 520. At least a portion of the light source 530 is disposed inside the second cavity 40. For example, as shown in Figure 6, a portion of the light source 530 is disposed inside the second cavity 40, and another portion is disposed outside the second cavity 40. Alternatively, the light source 530 may also be disposed entirely inside the second cavity 40. At least a portion of the imaging device 520 is disposed inside the second cavity 40. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the imaging device 520 is disposed inside the second cavity 40. Alternatively, a portion of the imaging device 520 may be disposed inside the second cavity 40, and another portion may be disposed outside the second cavity 40. The imaging device 520 is used to generate an imaging beam based on the beam emitted by the light source 530 and project it onto the lens 510.

[0124] The specific structure of the imaging device 520 is not limited here. The imaging device 520 can be a DMD, LCOS, MEMS, or other similar devices.

[0125] The specific structure of the light source 530 is not limited here. For example, as shown in FIG6, the light source 530 may include a substrate 531 and a light-emitting element 532. The substrate 531 is located outside the second cavity 40 and connected to the third housing 540, while the light-emitting element 532 is located inside the second cavity 40. In some embodiments, the substrate 531 may be a circuit board, and the substrate 531 is electrically connected to the light-emitting element 532.

[0126] In other implementations, the imaging device can also be a display, which emits an imaging beam toward the lens 510. The display can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), or the like.

[0127] As shown in Figure 4, the third housing 540 is a single-piece structure. However, in some embodiments, the third housing 540 can also be constructed from multiple parts.

[0128] As shown in Figure 4, the rear cover 63 is part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40. Therefore, the projection device 500 may also include the rear cover 63, the third housing 540 is connected to the rear cover 63, and the lens 510, the third housing 540 and the rear cover 63 form the second cavity 40. However, in some embodiments, the projection device 500 may also include a base plate (not shown in the figure), the third housing 540 is connected to the base plate, and the lens 510, the third housing 540 and the base plate form the second cavity 40, the rear cover 63 is connected to the base plate, and at least a portion of the rear cover 63 is disposed outside the second cavity 40.

[0129] In summary, the projection device 500 can have a second cavity 40 either because the cavity wall of the second cavity 40 can be at least a portion of the rear cover 63 or the rear cover 63 is not part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40. However, when the projection device 500 includes the rear cover 63, not only can a second cavity 40 be formed, but the number of parts in the vehicle lighting device 200 can also be reduced. In addition, the rear cover 63 is connected to the front shell 61 via a flexible connector 62, allowing the projection device 500 to be tilted relative to the front shell 61 via the flexible connector 62, thereby adjusting the angle of the projection device 500.

[0130] It should be noted that, in order to ensure the sealing of the second cavity 40, the inside of the lens 510 needs to be well sealed.

[0131] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG6, when a portion of the light source 530 is located outside the second cavity 40, the projection device 500 may further include a fifth annular seal 560. The fifth annular seal 560 is located outside the second cavity 40 and between the third housing 540 and the light source 530, and abuts against the third housing 540 and the light source 530 respectively. This can improve the sealing performance between the third housing 540 and the light source 530, and further improve the sealing performance of the second cavity 40.

[0132] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG4, the projection device 500 may further include a reflective element 550 located in the second cavity 40. The reflective element 550 reflects the light beam emitted by the light source 530 to the imaging device 520. The imaging device 520 modulates the imaging beam directed toward the lens 510 according to the light beam from the reflective element 550. The lens 510 projects the imaging beam to the outside of the second cavity 40.

[0133] For example, the reflective element 550 can be a curved mirror. Of course, the reflective element 550 can also be other structures.

[0134] It should be noted that the optical path scheme inside the second cavity 40 can be other than that shown in Figure 4. That is to say, the positional arrangement of devices such as the light source 530, imaging device 520, and reflective element 550 can be other than that shown in Figure 4.

[0135] In some possible implementations, the vehicle lighting device 200 may also include at least one of a third annular seal 93 and a fourth annular seal 94. For example, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the vehicle lighting device 200 includes a third annular seal 93 and a fourth annular seal 94. Of course, the vehicle lighting device 200 may also include either a third annular seal 93 or a fourth annular seal 94.

[0136] As shown in Figure 4, the third annular seal 93 is fitted onto the outer wall of the lens 510 and abuts against both the lens 510 and the third housing 540, thereby improving the sealing performance between the lens 510 and the third housing 540 and further enhancing the sealing performance of the second cavity 40. As shown in Figure 5, the fourth annular seal 94 is disposed between the third housing 540 and the rear cover 63 and abuts against both the rear cover 63 and the third housing 540, thereby improving the sealing performance between the third housing 540 and the rear cover 63 and further enhancing the sealing performance of the second cavity 40.

[0137] The specific material of the third annular seal 93 is not shown here. For example, the third annular seal 93 can be an annular foam structure. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the third annular seal 93 can also be a structure formed by dispensing adhesive. Or, in still other embodiments, the third annular seal 93 can also be a structure formed by welding.

[0138] The specific material of the fourth annular seal 94 is not shown here. For example, the fourth annular seal 94 can be an annular foam structure. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the fourth annular seal 94 can also be a structure formed by dispensing adhesive. Or, in still other embodiments, the fourth annular seal 94 can also be a structure formed by welding.

[0139] In some possible implementations, as shown in FIG4, the projection device 500 may further include a control device 80 disposed within the first cavity 30, the control device 80 being used to control the projection device 500 to emit an imaging beam. For example, the control device 80 may be electrically connected to the imaging device 520, and the control device 80 is used to control the imaging device 520 to generate an imaging beam based on the beam emitted by the light source 530. Of course, in some embodiments, the control device 80 may also be used to control the light source 530 to emit a beam.

[0140] In addition to its own control function, in some embodiments, the control device 80 of the projection device 500 can also be electrically connected to the controller (not shown in the figure). The controller and the control device 80 are used to jointly control the projection device 500 to emit an imaging beam. That is, part of the control function of the projection device 500 is integrated on the control device 80 and the other part is integrated on the controller.

[0141] In some embodiments, the lighting device 200 may include a controller, i.e., the controller is part of the lighting device 200. In other embodiments, the vehicle 100 may include a controller, in which case the controller and the lighting device 200 are two independent parts.

[0142] For example, as shown in FIG4, the control device 80 is fixedly connected to the third housing 540. The control device 80 includes a fourth housing 87 and a control unit 81 disposed inside the fourth housing 87. The control unit 81 is used for electrical connection with the imaging device 520. In this way, by realizing the electrical connection between the imaging device 520 and the controller of the vehicle 100 through the control device 80, the integration of the vehicle lighting device 200 can be improved.

[0143] As shown in Figure 4, the fourth housing 87 may include a first housing 82 and a second housing 83. The first housing 82 and the second housing 83 are connected to form a fourth cavity 84 that accommodates the control unit 81. The first housing 82 is fixedly connected to the third housing 540.

[0144] In some embodiments, in order to enable the control unit 81 to be electrically connected to the imaging device 520, the first housing 82 is provided with a connection through hole (not shown in the figure), which connects the inside and outside of the fourth cavity 84. The imaging device 520 can be electrically connected to the control unit 81 through the electrical connector (not shown in the figure) and the connection through hole.

[0145] Figure 9 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the vehicle lighting device shown in Figure 4 with the lamp housing removed.

[0146] In some possible implementations, referring to Figures 4 and 9, the control device 80 further includes a first connector 85 and a second connector 86, spaced apart along the axial direction of the lens 510 (as shown in the Y direction in Figure 4 or 9). The first connector 85 and the lens 510 are located on the same side of the third housing 540, and the second connector 86 is located on the same side of the liquid cooling plate 50. In this way, while ensuring the control device 80 can be connected to external devices, the size of the vehicle lighting device 200 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the lens 510 can be reduced, contributing to the miniaturization of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0147] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG4, the vent 71 is connected to the third housing 540. Along a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the lens 510 (X direction in FIG4), the control device 80 is spaced apart from the vent 71, and the projection of the control device 80 covers the vent 71. Along a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the lens 510 (X direction in FIG9), the projection of the control device 80 covers the liquid cooling plate 50. This reduces the size of the vehicle lighting device 200 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the lens 510, contributing to the miniaturization of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0148] In the above description, the liquid cooling plate 50 is disposed on the outside of the lamp housing 60. However, the liquid cooling plate 50 can also be partially disposed inside the lamp housing 60 and partially disposed on the outside of the lamp housing 60. The following describes the implementation method in which the liquid cooling plate 50 is partially disposed inside the lamp housing 60.

[0149] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of another vehicle lighting device provided in an embodiment of this application, and Figure 11 is an enlarged schematic diagram of point A in Figure 10.

[0150] The difference between Figure 10 and Figure 4 lies in the structure of the lamp housing 60. In the former, a portion of the cavity wall of the first cavity 30 is the lamp housing 60, and the other portion is the liquid cooling plate 50. Specifically, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the lamp housing 60 includes a front shell 61 and a flexible connector 62. The front shell 61 is connected to the first housing 51 through the flexible connector 62. The front shell 61, the flexible connector 62, and the first housing 51 form the first cavity 30, such that a portion of the cavity wall of the first cavity 30 is the lamp housing 60, and the other portion is the first housing 51.

[0151] The first housing 51 is an integral structure, and the second housing 52 and the connection between the second housing 52 and the first housing 51 are still located outside the first cavity 30, so that the cooling medium cannot leak into the interior of the first cavity 30, which can further improve the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 200.

[0152] In some possible implementations, the heating element 10 within the second cavity 40 can be fitted into the first housing 51. The heating element 10 within the second cavity 40 can be directly fitted into the first housing 51 (as shown in Figure 11) or indirectly fitted into it; both methods transfer the heat generated by the heating element 10 to the first housing 51, where it is absorbed by the cooling medium. However, directly fitting the heating element 10 within the second cavity 40 into the first housing 51 further shortens the heat transfer path between the cooling medium and the heating element 10, thus improving the heat dissipation capacity of the heating element 10.

[0153] In some embodiments, when a heating device 10 may also be provided in the first cavity 30, the heating device 10 in the first cavity 30 may also be directly or indirectly attached to the first housing 51.

[0154] In some possible implementations, at least a portion of the first housing 51 may serve as part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40, for example, as shown in FIG11, where a portion of the first housing 51 forms part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40. Of course, the first housing 51 may also form part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40.

[0155] By using at least a portion of the first housing 51 as part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40, the utilization rate of the liquid cooling plate 50 can be improved, while the number of parts in the vehicle lighting device 200 can be reduced, thus simplifying the structure of the vehicle lighting device 200. In addition, the heat transfer path between the heat-generating device 10 and the liquid cooling plate 50 within the second cavity 40 can be further shortened, which helps to improve the heat dissipation effect.

[0156] For example, as shown in FIG10, the third housing 540 is connected to the first housing 51, and the lens 510, the third housing 540, and the first housing 51 form the second cavity 40. In some embodiments, the projection device 500 may further include a base plate (not shown in the figure), the third housing 540 is connected to the base plate, and the lens 510, the third housing 540, and the base plate form the second cavity 40, the first housing 51 is connected to the base plate, and at least a portion of the first housing 51 is disposed outside the second cavity 40.

[0157] In summary, the cavity wall of the second cavity 40 can be at least a portion of the first housing 51 or a portion of the first housing 51 that is not part of the cavity wall of the second cavity 40, thus forming the second cavity 40. However, when the projection device 500 includes the first housing 51, not only can the second cavity 40 be formed, but the number of parts in the vehicle lighting device 200 can also be reduced.

[0158] When the projection device 500 includes a first housing 51, as shown in FIG10, the first housing 51 is connected to the front housing 61 via a flexible connector 62, allowing the projection device 500 to be tilted relative to the front housing 61 via the flexible connector 62, thereby adjusting the angle of the projection device 500. Furthermore, in some embodiments, by rationally designing the structure of the first housing 51, the cooling medium can be located inside the first cavity 30.

[0159] In some possible implementations, as shown in Figure 11, the vehicle lighting device 200 may also include a second annular seal 92. The second annular seal 92 is disposed between the second end of the flexible connector 62 and the liquid cooling plate 50 and abuts against the liquid cooling plate 50 and the flexible connector 62 respectively, which can improve the sealing performance between the flexible connector 62 and the liquid cooling plate 50 and further improve the sealing performance of the first cavity 30.

[0160] In some possible implementations, as shown in Figure 11, the vehicle lighting device 200 may also include a fourth annular seal 94, which is disposed between the third housing 540 and the first housing 51 and abuts against the third housing 540 and the first housing 51 respectively, thereby improving the sealing performance between the third housing 540 and the first housing 51 and further improving the sealing performance of the second cavity 40.

[0161] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0162] The devices or elements referred to in the embodiments of this application or implied herein must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise precisely specified.

[0163] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of the present application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0164] The term "multiple" in this article refers to two or more. The term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this article generally indicates an "or" relationship between the preceding and following related objects; in formulas, the character " / " indicates a "division" relationship between the preceding and following related objects.

[0165] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0166] It is understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned process numbers does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A vehicle lighting device, characterized in that, It includes a heating element, a first cavity, a second cavity, a liquid cooling plate, and a lamp housing; The first cavity is at least partially formed through the lamp housing, and the second cavity is disposed inside the first cavity, wherein the heating device is disposed inside the second cavity; The liquid cooling plate is used to dissipate heat from the heat-generating device. The liquid cooling plate includes a first housing and a second housing with a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet. The first housing and the second housing are connected to form a third cavity for containing the cooling medium. The liquid inlet and the liquid outlet are respectively connected to the inside and outside of the third cavity. The second housing and the connection between the second housing and the first housing are both located outside the first cavity.

2. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vehicle lighting device also includes a humidity control component, which is disposed in the second cavity and is used to absorb moisture in the second cavity.

3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The humidity control component has an absorption state and a release state; When the humidity control element is in the absorption state, the humidity control element absorbs the moisture in the second cavity; When the humidity control element is in the released state, the humidity control element releases moisture into the second cavity.

4. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first housing is a single-piece structure.

5. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The lamp housing includes a front shell, a rear cover, and a flexible connector. The front shell is connected to the rear cover via the flexible connector. The front shell, the rear cover, and the flexible connector form the first cavity. The liquid cooling plate is disposed outside the first cavity and is fixedly connected to the rear cover.

6. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The rear cover is fitted to the heating element in the second cavity, and the cooling medium in the liquid cooling plate exchanges heat with the heating element in the second cavity through the rear cover.

7. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, At least a portion of the rear cover serves as part of the cavity wall of the second cavity.

8. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The lamp housing includes a front shell and a flexible connector. The front shell is connected to the first housing through the flexible connector. The front shell, the flexible connector, and the first housing form the first cavity.

9. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The heating device inside the second cavity is fitted to the first housing.

10. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first housing serves as part of the cavity wall of the second cavity.

11. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that, The vehicle lighting device also includes at least one of a first annular seal and a second annular seal; The first annular seal is disposed between the front shell and the first end of the flexible connector and abuts against the front shell and the flexible connector respectively; The second annular seal is disposed between the second end of the flexible connector and the rear cover and abuts against the rear cover and the flexible connector respectively; or, the second annular seal is disposed between the second end of the flexible connector and the first housing and abuts against the first housing and the flexible connector respectively.

12. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The vehicle lighting device also includes a vent and a through hole. The through hole connects the first cavity and the second cavity. The vent is disposed at the through hole, and the gas in the first cavity exchanges with the gas in the second cavity through the vent.

13. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The vehicle lighting device also includes a projection device, which includes a lens, a third housing, an imaging device, and a second cavity. At least a portion of the imaging device is disposed inside the second cavity, and the imaging device is used to generate an imaging beam directed toward the lens; The lens is mounted on the third housing and is used to project the imaging beam to the outside of the first cavity; The third housing is disposed inside the first cavity, and the third housing is a portion of the cavity wall of the second cavity.

14. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The imaging device includes a light source and an imaging component; At least a portion of the light source is disposed inside the second cavity; At least a portion of the imaging device is disposed inside the second cavity, and the imaging device is used to generate an imaging beam based on the beam emitted by the light source and project it onto the lens.

15. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The third housing is connected to the first housing, and the lens, the third housing, and the first housing form the second cavity; or, The third housing is used to connect to the rear cover, and the lens, the third housing, and the rear cover form the second cavity.

16. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that, The projection device further includes a control device disposed in the first cavity. The control device is used to control the projection device to emit the imaging beam, or the control device is used to be electrically connected to the controller. The control device and the controller are used to control the projection device to emit the imaging beam.

17. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The control device is fixedly connected to the third housing. The control device includes a fourth housing and a control unit. The control unit is disposed inside the fourth housing and is electrically connected to the imaging device.

18. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 17, characterized in that, The control device further includes a first connector and a second connector, which are spaced apart along the axial direction of the lens. The first connector and the lens are located on the same side of the third housing, and the second connector and the liquid cooling plate are located on the same side of the third housing.

19. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, The vehicle lighting device includes a vent, which is connected to the third housing in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the lens. The control device is arranged at intervals with the vent, and the projection of the control device covers the vent and the liquid cooling plate.

20. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 13 to 19, characterized in that, The vehicle lighting device also includes at least one of a third annular seal and a fourth annular seal; The third annular seal is fitted onto the outer wall of the lens and abuts against the lens and the third housing, respectively. The fourth annular seal is disposed between the third housing and the first housing and abuts against the third housing and the first housing respectively; or, the fourth annular seal is disposed between the third housing and the rear cover and abuts against the rear cover and the third housing respectively.

21. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that, The heating device is a light source, an imaging device, or a circuit board.

22. A means of transportation, characterized in that, The invention includes a liquid cooling circuit system and a vehicle lighting device as described in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the vehicle lighting device includes a liquid cooling plate, the inlet and outlet of which are respectively connected to the liquid cooling circuit system, and the liquid cooling circuit system includes a radiator for cooling the cooling medium in the liquid cooling circuit system.

23. The means of transport according to claim 22, characterized in that, The liquid cooling plate is connected in series with the liquid cooling circuit system, or the liquid cooling plate is connected in parallel with the liquid cooling circuit system.

24. The means of transport according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, The vehicle also includes a flow control valve connected between the liquid cooling plate and the liquid cooling circuit system.

Images