Lighting module with improved EMC shielding

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lighting module (2) comprising at least one semiconductor light source (5) and a driver circuit provided for the semiconductor light source (5), said driver circuit being arranged on a main body (4) of the lighting module (2), wherein the lighting module (2) is designed in such a way that the driver circuit is shielded by the main body (4) for improved electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). The invention additionally relates to a lighting device (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising such a lighting module (2) and a holding module (3) for the lighting module (2).

Description

[0001] LIGHTING MODULE WITH IMPROVED EMC SHIELDING

[0002] The present application claims priority over German patent application No. 10 2024 118 169 . 9 of 27 June 2024, the disclosure content of which is hereby incorporated into the present application by reference.

[0003] The present invention relates to a lighting module comprising at least one semiconductor light source and a driver circuit provided for the semiconductor light source, which is arranged on a base body of the lighting module, wherein the lighting module is designed such that the driver circuit is shielded by the base body for improved electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). Furthermore, the invention relates to a lighting device, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising such a lighting module and a mounting module for the lighting module.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] In the field of vehicle lighting, replaceable light sources have proven to be essential components, particularly with regard to their simple and cost-effective replacement in case of defects. Traditional light sources such as halogen and xenon lamps allow vehicle owners to quickly and easily restore lighting functionality when needed. However, LED-based light sources are now also increasingly used in vehicle lighting. LED-based light sources are characterized by their high energy efficiency, luminosity, and low failure rate. Precisely because of their low failure rate, LED-based light sources have so far been designed in such a way that a defect requires the replacement of the entire vehicle lighting system, e.g., the entire headlight assembly. Consequently, there is a lack of standardized solutions for the manual replacement of LED-based light sources in this area.

[0006] Furthermore, in the automotive sector, EMC requirements for the components and assemblies used are very high, which applies particularly to the driver circuitry of modern vehicle lighting systems. Due to the limited installation space available and the desired interchangeability of LED-based light sources, there are currently few, if any, standardized solutions that meet the corresponding EMC requirements in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0007] There is therefore a need to provide a lighting device, especially for a motor vehicle, or a light source that counteracts at least one of the aforementioned problems.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] This need is addressed by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Further developments and embodiments of the proposed principle are specified in the dependent claims.

[0010] The inventors propose an LED light source for, for example, a vehicle headlight, which, in the event of a defect, can be replaced by a layperson without much effort and without having to visit a workshop. The light source and a corresponding holding device are designed such that the holding device securely holds the light source in a designated position during normal use, but that the light source can be easily detached from the holding device in the event of a defect. The holding device and light source include contact surfaces, contact areas, and fastening elements that are arranged and designed in such a way that the light source cannot slip or tilt relative to the holding device when mounted, but can be easily and repeatedly removed from the holding device by actuating one of the fastening elements.Furthermore, the contact surfaces, contact areas, and fastening elements are arranged and designed to allow for simple and precise mounting and fastening of the light source. The light source, or its base, is designed to meet the stringent EMC requirements for use in, for example, a motor vehicle headlight. According to a first aspect, a lighting module is proposed that includes at least one semiconductor light source and a driver circuit for the semiconductor light source, which is mounted on the module's base. The lighting module, or its base, is designed to provide improved electromagnetic shielding for the driver circuit.Furthermore, a lighting device, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising a lighting module and a holding module, is proposed, wherein the lighting module and the holding module are repeatedly and releasably connected to each other according to a key-lock principle.

[0011] The lighting module, according to a first aspect, comprises a base body, a printed circuit board comprising a driver circuit configured to control at least one semiconductor light source and arranged on a bottom surface of the base body, and at least one semiconductor light source arranged on the base body or the printed circuit board. The at least one semiconductor light source can, for example, comprise one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). However, the lighting module can also have several semiconductor light sources arranged on the base body. Accordingly, the lighting module can be an LED-based module.

[0012] The base body has at least one rib extending from the underside and formed integrally with the base body, which extends at least over the driver circuit arranged on the circuit board at a distance from it. This at least one rib serves to electromagnetically shield the driver circuit, at least partially. In particular, this at least one rib ensures that the stringent EMC requirements for the lighting module are met for use in, for example, a motor vehicle headlight.

[0013] The printed circuit board, mounted on the base body, is electrically coupled to the at least one semiconductor light source. The driver circuit can be configured to provide the desired control signal for the at least one semiconductor light source. A PCB (printed circuit board) can serve as a carrier for further electronic components and / or a driver circuit and / or a connector and / or the at least one semiconductor light source. The PCB can, in particular, serve for the mechanical mounting and electrical connection of the aforementioned elements.According to some aspects, the base body has two opposing ribs extending from the underside and formed integrally with the base body. These two ribs extend at least over the driver circuit arranged on the printed circuit board and are spaced apart from it to at least partially shield the driver circuit electromagnetically. In particular, the two ribs can extend from two opposing sides of the base body over the driver circuit arranged on the printed circuit board and, spaced apart from it, essentially completely cover it, so that the driver circuit is at least partially electromagnetically shielded.

[0014] The two ribs can be spaced apart or touching. In particular, a gap can form between the two ribs on one side of the circuit board opposite the underside, or the two ribs can be butted together.

[0015] According to some aspects, the at least one rib, together with the underside, encloses a cavity open on at least one side, in which the printed circuit board or the driver circuit is arranged. In particular, the at least one rib can be designed or shaped such that it extends from the underside over the printed circuit board or the driver circuit in such a way that an (open) cavity is formed between the underside and a surface of the at least one rib opposite the underside, in which the printed circuit board or the driver circuit is arranged. This allows the printed circuit board or the driver circuit to be shielded from electromagnetic radiation, at least on the covered sides. According to some aspects, the at least one rib covers the printed circuit board essentially completely.In particular, the coverage of the printed circuit board (PCB) can be selected such that at least electronic components on the PCB that are susceptible to interference from electromagnetic radiation are covered by at least one rib. At the same time, the coverage of the PCB can be selected such that the PCB can still be easily mounted on the underside and the lighting module can be detachably connected to a suitable mounting module.

[0016] According to some aspects, at least one semiconductor light source is not covered by at least one rib. For example, the at least one rib may have a recess in the area of ​​the at least one semiconductor light source in order not to impede emission through the at least one rib or at least in the direction of the at least one rib.

[0017] According to certain aspects, the distance between the underside and a surface of the at least one rib that is essentially parallel to the underside is chosen depending on the height of the tallest component on the printed circuit board. In particular, the distance between the underside and the surface of the at least one rib that is essentially parallel to the underside can be chosen such that a small gap is still provided between the tallest component on the printed circuit board and the at least one rib. The smaller the gap, the greater the shielding effect of the at least one rib can be, while a larger gap can facilitate mounting the printed circuit board.

[0018] According to some aspects, the base body is formed by a particularly thin sheet. For example, the base body can have a thickness of at most 5 mm, or at most 3 mm, or at most 2 mm, and a thickness of at least 2 mm, at least 1 mm, or at least 0.5 mm. In particular, the base body can have a very small thickness compared to its surface area. According to some aspects, the base body is formed by a bent part, for example, a stamped-bent part. In particular, the at least one rib can be produced by bending dies.

[0019] According to some aspects, the printed circuit board (PCB) is glued to the underside of the base body. Specifically, the PCB can be attached to the underside of the base body using a thermally conductive adhesive or a thermally conductive connection. Alternatively, the PCB can also be riveted or screwed to the base body.

[0020] According to some aspects, at least one rib is in electrically conductive contact with the driver circuit, in particular to ground the driver circuit. This allows for further improvement in EMC. For this purpose, an electrically conductive pin can be attached to at least one rib, which, during operation of the lighting module, is in electrically conductive contact with the circuit board or the driver circuit and provides a so-called ground for the circuit board or driver circuit.

[0021] According to certain aspects, the base body has three parallel bearing surfaces projecting from its underside. These three bearing surfaces can be arranged in the same plane or in parallel, spaced-apart planes. The three bearing surfaces are designed to be positioned on at least one reference surface of a holding module. In particular, the number of reference surfaces corresponds to the number of different planes in which the bearing surfaces are arranged.If all three support surfaces are arranged in the same plane, they are designed to be arranged on a reference surface of the holding module. If two of the three support surfaces are arranged in the same plane and one of the support surfaces is arranged in a parallel offset plane, they are designed to be arranged on two reference surfaces of the holding module. If all support surfaces are arranged in parallel offset planes, they are designed to be arranged on three reference surfaces of the holding module. The lighting module can thus be designed to be statically determined via three defined support surfaces on at least one reference surface adapted for this purpose.

[0022] According to certain aspects, the base body also has at least one contact area on an upper surface opposite the underside, which is configured to interact with at least one first fastening element of the holding module by exerting a force in a direction perpendicular to the bearing surfaces. The at least one contact area can, in particular, be configured to come into contact with at least one first fastening element of the holding module such that a force is exerted by the at least one first fastening element in a direction perpendicular to the bearing surfaces. The exerted force allows the light module to be pressed onto the holding module at the three bearing surfaces. A projection of the at least one contact area or of a connecting line between two contact areas perpendicular to the bearing surfaces lies within or intersects a virtual surface spanned by the three bearing surfaces.The at least one contact area or several contact areas are arranged such that a force acting in the contact area(s) acts in a direction perpendicular to the contact surfaces, pressing the light module evenly onto the contact surfaces. This can be achieved either by having a projection of the at least one contact area or several contact areas perpendicular to the contact surfaces lie within the virtual area spanned by the three contact surfaces, or by having the projection of several contact areas perpendicular to the contact surfaces lie outside the virtual area spanned by the three contact surfaces, but in such a way that they are arranged symmetrically around the virtual area. This prevents any leverage effect of a force acting outside the virtual area.

[0023] According to certain aspects, the basic body further comprises at least one first, one second, and one third side surface, each connecting the underside of the basic body to the top side. The side surfaces can be formed by surfaces running essentially perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces, but they can also run at a different angle and / or be stepped. The second and third side surfaces can be formed essentially by opposing outer surfaces of the basic body and, in particular, can run essentially parallel to each other. The at least one first side surface can, however, connect the second and third side surfaces. In particular, several first side surfaces can be combined to connect the second and third side surfaces.The at least one first side surface is configured to interact with at least one first reference element of the holding module such that at least one first direction of movement of the lighting module is restricted within a plane parallel to the support surfaces. For example, the at least one first side surface can be configured to interact with a first stop of the holding module, wherein the stop restricts a first direction of movement of the lighting module within the plane parallel to the support surfaces. The second side surface is configured to interact with at least one second reference element of the holding module such that at least one second direction of movement of the lighting module, perpendicular to the first, is restricted within the plane parallel to the support surfaces.For example, the second side surface can be configured to interact with a second stop of the holding module, the stop restricting a second direction of movement of the light module perpendicular to the first within the plane parallel to the support surfaces. The third side surface further has a first recess configured to interact with a second movable fastening element of the holding module, such that a direction of movement of the light module opposite to the first and second directions of movement is restricted within the plane parallel to the support surfaces. For example, the third side surface can be configured to...The first recess in the third side surface is designed to interact with a movable fastening element of the mounting module, wherein the movable fastening element restricts a direction of movement of the light module opposite to the first and second directions of movement within the plane parallel to the support surfaces. Accordingly, the light module can be designed to be fixed via its side surfaces in such a way that movement of the light module within the plane parallel to the support surfaces is restricted or prevented, and simultaneously fixed via its top and bottom surfaces in such a way that movement of the light module perpendicular to the plane parallel to the support surfaces is restricted or prevented.

[0024] According to certain aspects, the at least one first side surface is designed to interact with the at least one first reference element of the holding module such that the at least one first side surface is centered relative to the at least one first reference element. For example, the at least one first side surface can be formed by a protrusion from the base body or by a second recess in the base body. Similarly, the first reference element of the holding module can be designed to interact with the protrusion or the second recess to center the at least one side surface relative to the at least one reference element.

[0025] According to some aspects, the base body is made of a highly thermally conductive material and, in particular, forms a heat sink for the light module or for the heat generated in the at least one semiconductor light source. The base body can have a multitude of cooling fins extending from the top and / or bottom. For example, the base body can be made of a metal and manufactured, for instance, using bending dies.

[0026] According to some aspects, a heat sink is additionally provided on the base body, with which the base body is in thermally conductive contact. In particular, such a heat sink can comprise a multitude of cooling fins that enable heat dissipation from the driver circuit and the at least one semiconductor light source.

[0027] According to some aspects, the base body is formed in one piece by a single element; however, the base body can also be composed of several parts, for example, an element made of a highly thermally conductive material that forms a heat sink for the light module or for the heat generated in the at least one semiconductor light source, as well as, for example, an encapsulation of the heat sink using, for example, a plastic. The side surfaces of the base body, the recesses, and the contact surfaces and areas can, for example, be formed by the encapsulation. However, this should not be understood as limiting, and the base body can also be composed of more than two and, in particular, different types of elements, whereby only one element, or several different elements, can form the side surfaces of the base body, the recesses, and the contact surfaces and areas.

[0028] According to some aspects, the at least one semiconductor light source is arranged on a projection of a connecting line between two contact areas perpendicular to the contact surfaces. For example, the at least one semiconductor light source can be arranged on the projection of a rotational axis formed by two contact areas. This has the advantage that, in the event of rotation of the lighting module about this rotational axis, the position of the at least one semiconductor light source relative to the mounting module is not significantly changed, but only the beam angle of the light emitted by the at least one semiconductor light source.This may be preferable because a positional shift of the at least one semiconductor light source relative to the holding module or a reflector module downstream of the lighting module can have a significant and undesirable influence on the emission characteristics of the emitted light, whereas a change only in the emission angle may be tolerable.

[0029] According to some aspects, the at least one contact area is formed by a recess on the top surface of the base body or comprises at least one further recess. The recess can serve to allow the at least one first fastening element to interact with the recess in such a way that the fastening element is arranged in the recess and holds the light module in position. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one contact area can be formed by a protrusion on the top surface of the base body or comprise at least one protrusion. A protrusion can, for example, serve as a stop against which the at least one fastening element can be attached. The at least one contact area can also be formed by a flat surface or comprise a flat surface that does not differ significantly from the top surface of the base body.The at least one contact area can, for example, be defined by a contact surface of the top with the at least one first fastening element, but otherwise not differ significantly from the top of the base body. Furthermore, according to some aspects, the at least one contact area can have a combination of the aforementioned configurations.

[0030] According to some aspects, the light module includes a fastening means for a reflector module, in particular further recesses in the base body which are designed to interact with a reflector module to hold it in position relative to the light module or vice versa. For example, further recess(es) may be provided in the base body which interact with reference element(s) of a reflector module and define a position relative to each other. The reflector module may be designed to direct light emitted by the at least one semiconductor light source in a desired direction and / or to shape the light.

[0031] According to certain aspects, the lighting module further comprises a connector element arranged on the base body and electrically coupled to the at least one semiconductor light source. The connector module is configured to interact with a corresponding connector counterpart, by means of which a signal and / or a supply current can be provided for the at least one semiconductor light source. A signal and / or a supply current for operating the at least one semiconductor light source can be provided via the connector element. The connector element can, in particular, be configured to interact with a corresponding connector counterpart in a repeatably detachable manner.

[0032] Furthermore, the present application proposes a holding module with which the lighting module can be detachably connected according to some aspects of the proposed principle. According to a further aspect, the holding module comprises at least one reference surface configured to interact with three mutually parallel support surfaces projecting from a bottom surface of a base body of the lighting module. Depending on whether the three support surfaces of the base body of the lighting module are arranged in the same plane or in mutually parallel, spaced-apart planes, the holding module can have one or more mutually parallel reference surfaces, each configured to interact with the three mutually parallel support surfaces of the base body. In particular, the number of reference surfaces corresponds to the number of different planes in which the support surfaces are arranged.In the case that all three support surfaces are arranged in the same plane, the holding module comprises one reference surface configured to interact with the support surfaces; in the case that two of the three support surfaces are arranged in the same plane and one of the support surfaces is arranged in a parallel offset plane, the holding module comprises two reference surfaces, each configured to interact with the support surfaces within a plane; and in the case that all support surfaces are arranged in parallel offset planes, the holding module comprises three reference surfaces, each configured to interact with one of the support surfaces. The holding module can accordingly have at least one reference surface on which the lighting module can be arranged, in particular such that the lighting module or...The basic body can be statically determined via three defined support surfaces on at least one adapted reference surface.

[0033] The holding module also comprises at least one first fastening element configured to exert a force in a direction perpendicular to the at least one reference surface onto a contact area on a top surface of the base body of the light module opposite the underside. The at least one first fastening element can, in particular, be configured to come into contact with a contact area on the top surface of the base body such that a force is exerted by the at least one first fastening element on the base body in a direction perpendicular to the at least one reference surface. The exerted force allows the light module to be pressed onto the at least one reference surface of the holding module at the three contact surfaces of the base body.

[0034] A projection of the at least one contact area or a connecting line between two contact areas perpendicular to the contact surfaces lies within or intersects a virtual area spanned by the three contact surfaces. The at least one contact area or several contact areas are arranged such that a force acting in the contact area(s) acts in a direction perpendicular to the contact surfaces in such a way that the light module is pressed evenly onto the contact surfaces. This can be achieved, on the one hand, by a projection of the at least one contact area or...Several contact areas perpendicular to the bearing surfaces lie within the virtual area spanned by the three bearing surfaces, or the projection of several contact areas perpendicular to the bearing surfaces lies outside the virtual area spanned by the three bearing surfaces, but in such a way that they are arranged symmetrically around the virtual area. This prevents any potential leverage effect of a force acting outside the virtual area.

[0035] The holding module also comprises at least one first reference element configured to interact with at least one first side surface of the lighting module such that at least one first direction of movement of the lighting module is restricted within a plane parallel to the reference surface. Furthermore, the holding module comprises at least one second reference element configured to interact with a second side surface of the lighting module such that at least one second direction of movement of the lighting module, perpendicular to the first, is restricted within the plane parallel to the reference surface. In particular, the first and second reference elements can form a stop for the base body of the lighting module, which is intended to restrict or prevent movement of the lighting module along a first and a second direction perpendicular to the first within a plane parallel to the reference surface.Furthermore, the holding module comprises a movable second fastening element configured to interact with a first recess in a third side surface of the lighting module such that a direction of movement of the lighting module opposite to the first and second directions of movement is restricted within the plane parallel to the reference surface. For example, the movable second fastening element can be configured to interact with a first recess in a third side surface of the lighting module, wherein the movable fastening element restricts a direction of movement of the lighting module opposite to the first and second directions of movement within the plane parallel to the reference surface.

[0036] Accordingly, the holding module can be designed to fix a lighting module by means of the reference elements and the second fastening element in such a way that movement of the lighting module within the plane parallel to the reference surface is restricted or prevented, and at the same time to fix the lighting module by means of the at least one reference surface and the at least one first fastening element in such a way that movement of the lighting module perpendicular to the plane parallel to the reference surface is restricted or prevented.

[0037] According to certain aspects, at least one first reference element, one second reference element, and one second fastening element are arranged and configured to restrict or substantially prevent rotation of the light module within a plane parallel to the reference surface. In particular, the holding module can be configured to fix a light module by means of the reference elements and the second fastening element in such a way that rotation of the light module within a plane parallel to the reference surface is restricted or substantially prevented.

[0038] According to certain aspects, the at least one reference surface and the at least one first fastening element are arranged and configured to restrict or substantially prevent rotation of the lighting module about an axis lying within a plane parallel to the reference surface. In particular, the holding module can be configured to fix a lighting module by means of the at least one reference surface and the at least one first fastening element in such a way that rotation of the lighting module about an axis lying within a plane parallel to the reference surface is restricted or substantially prevented.

[0039] According to certain aspects, the at least one first fastening element is movable, in particular elastically movable. Specifically, the at least one first fastening element can be designed similarly to a snap hook, which deforms elastically when the light module is positioned and thereby exerts a force on the base body in a direction perpendicular to the at least one reference surface. Depending on the configuration of the at least one contact area on the top surface of the base body, the at least one first fastening element can be designed to detachably hook onto the at least one contact area on the top surface of the base body. The at least one first fastening element can be designed to exert a force on the base body in a direction perpendicular to the at least one reference surface and to form a positive-locking connection with the at least one contact area on the top surface of the base body.

[0040] According to some aspects, the holding module comprises at least two first fastening elements configured to exert a force in a direction perpendicular to the at least one reference surface on contact areas on the upper surface of the light module. The at least two first fastening elements can be arranged with respect to a virtual surface spanned by the support surfaces of the light module such that their projections are perpendicular to the at least one reference plane, or projections of the contact areas between the fastening elements and the light module lie within the virtual surface, or they can be arranged symmetrically around the virtual surface. This is intended to ensure that the forces applied to the light module in a direction perpendicular to the at least one reference surface exert a uniform pressure on the light module and do not cause it to tilt due to leverage.According to some aspects, the second fastening element has a lever designed to repeatedly release the interaction between the second fastening element and the first recess in the third side surface of the light module. In particular, the lever can be designed so that a user of the holding module can easily actuate the lever with, for example, a finger to release the interaction between the second fastening element and the first recess in the third side surface of the light module. Specifically, no tool may be necessary to release the interaction between the second fastening element and the first recess in the third side surface of the light module; simply applying manual pressure to the lever may suffice.The lever can be designed in such a way that the disengagement of the interaction is repeatable, i.e., that the disengagement of the interaction can be carried out multiple times without the second fastening element being damaged or losing its function.

[0041] According to certain aspects, the at least one first reference element is configured to interact with the at least one first side surface of the lighting module such that the at least one first side surface is centered relative to the at least one first reference element. For example, the first reference element of the holding module can be configured to interact with a protrusion or a second recess of the at least one first side surface to center the at least one first side surface relative to the at least one reference element. The at least one first reference element can be formed by at least one pin and / or have a further recess that interacts with the at least one first side surface of the lighting module such that the at least one first side surface is centered relative to the at least one first reference element.

[0042] According to some aspects, the holding module comprises two first reference elements, each of which is formed by a pin, wherein the two first reference elements are configured to interact with the at least one first side surface of the lighting module such that at least one first direction of movement of the lighting module is restricted within the plane parallel to the reference surface and that the at least one first side surface is centered relative to the two first reference elements. In particular, the two first reference elements can be configured to interact with two first side surfaces of the lighting module such that a first direction of movement of the lighting module and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction are restricted within the plane parallel to the reference surface and that the first side surfaces are centered relative to the two first reference elements.The first side surfaces can taper conically towards each other, forming a bulge, and be positioned between the first two reference elements in such a way that each side surface interacts with one of the first reference elements. The arrangement of the two first reference elements can restrict, firstly, a first direction of movement of the lighting module and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction within the plane parallel to the reference surface, and secondly, center the first side surfaces relative to the two first reference elements.

[0043] According to some aspects, the at least one first reference element comprises a notch configured to interact with the at least one first side surface of the light module such that at least one first direction of movement of the light module is restricted within the plane parallel to the reference surface and that the at least one first side surface is centered relative to the at least one first reference element. In particular, the first reference element, or its further recess, can be configured to interact with two first side surfaces of the light module such that a first direction of movement of the light module and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction are restricted within the plane parallel to the reference surface and that the first side surfaces are centered relative to the two first reference elements.The first side surfaces can taper conically towards each other, forming a bulge, and be arranged in the further recess of the first reference element in such a way that each side surface interacts with a surface of the recess of the first reference element. The design of the recess and the arrangement of the first reference element can thereby restrict, firstly, a first direction of movement of the lighting module and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction within the plane parallel to the reference surface, and secondly, center the first side surfaces relative to the first reference element.

[0044] According to certain aspects, the at least one reference surface and the at least one first fastening element form a rail designed so that the lighting module can be inserted into the rail. The rail is designed with sufficient play to allow for easy insertion of the lighting module. In particular, the rail can be designed such that when the lighting module or its base body comes into contact with the at least one reference surface, contact between the holding module and the base body of the lighting module is only maintained on the upper side by the at least one first fastening element.

[0045] According to some aspects, the holding module has recesses that do not hinder the insertion of the light module into the holding module, especially in the area of ​​at least one rib.

[0046] According to some aspects, the second reference element is formed by a protrusion or a pin. For example, the second reference element can be formed by a protrusion within the rail, which is designed to interact with the second side surface of the base body of the lighting module.

[0047] Another aspect concerns a lighting device, particularly for a motor vehicle, comprising a lighting module according to the proposed principle and a holding module, particularly according to the proposed principle. The lighting module and the holding module are connected to each other or interact in such a way that the lighting module is essentially fixed in position relative to the holding module. Furthermore, the lighting module and the holding module are designed such that the essentially fixed position can be repeatedly released. Accordingly, the lighting module and the holding module are repeatedly and releasably connected to each other. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] Further aspects and embodiments according to the proposed principle will be revealed in relation to the various embodiments and examples, which are described in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0049] Figures 1A and 1B each show an isometric view of a

[0050] Lighting module according to the proposed principle;

[0051] Figures 2A and 2B show a top and a side view of a

[0052] Lighting module according to the proposed principle;

[0053] Fig. 3 shows an isometric view of another

[0054] Lighting module according to the proposed principle; and

[0055] Fig. 4 shows a top view of a lighting device according to the proposed principle.

[0056] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] The following embodiments and examples illustrate various aspects and their combinations according to the proposed principle. The embodiments and examples are not always to scale. Likewise, various elements may be enlarged or reduced to highlight individual aspects. It is understood that the individual aspects and features of the embodiments and examples shown in the figures can readily be combined without affecting the principle of the invention. Some aspects have a regular structure or shape. It should be noted that in practice, minor deviations from the ideal shape may occur without contradicting the inventive idea.

[0058] Furthermore, the individual figures, features, and aspects are not necessarily depicted at the correct size, and the proportions between the individual elements may not be entirely accurate. Some aspects and features are emphasized by being shown enlarged. However, terms such as "above," "below," "below," "larger," "smaller," and the like are correctly represented in relation to the elements in the figures. Thus, it is possible to deduce such relationships between the elements from the illustrations.

[0059] Figures 1A and 1B each show an isometric view of a lighting module 2 according to the proposed principle, while Figures 2A and 2B show a top and a side view of the lighting module 1. Figure 3 shows an isometric representation of another embodiment of a lighting module 2, and Figure 4 shows a top view of a lighting device 1, in particular a light source for a headlight, a taillight, or a flashing light for a motor vehicle, comprising a lighting module 2 and a holding module 3, which are repeatedly and releasably connected to one another. The lighting module 2 and the holding module 3 are connected to one another or interact in such a way that the lighting module 2 is essentially fixed in position relative to the holding module 3. Furthermore, the lighting module 2 and the holding module 3 are designed such that the essentially fixed connection can be repeatedly released.Accordingly, the lighting module 2 and the holding module 3 are repeatedly and detachably connected to each other.

[0060] The light module 2 comprises a base body 4 and a semiconductor light source 5, which is arranged on a bottom surface 6 of the base body 4. The number of semiconductor light sources (n) 5, in particular the six semiconductor light sources shown in Fig. 3, is to be understood as exemplary, and both one and more semiconductor light sources 5 can be arranged on the bottom surface 6 of the base body 4.

[0061] The base body 4 has three parallel bearing surfaces 7 projecting from its underside 6. These bearing surfaces 7 are shown here only as examples, either as circles or as a section shaped like a keyway, to indicate their possible positions on the underside. However, their shape, size, and position are merely illustrative and can be adapted as needed.

[0062] The contact surfaces 7 are designed to be arranged on a reference surface of the holding module 3. Similarly, the holding module 3 comprises a reference surface designed to interact with the three mutually parallel contact surfaces 7 projecting from a lower surface 6 of the base body 4 of the lighting module 2. In the illustrated case, the three contact surfaces 7 have the same or substantially the same height, so the holding module requires exactly one reference surface on which the three contact surfaces 7 are arranged. However, it is also possible for the three contact surfaces 7 to be arranged in different mutually parallel planes and for the holding module 3 to have a correspondingly suitable number of reference surfaces, so that the lighting module 2 can be arranged such that all contact surfaces 7 are in contact with and fully rest on one reference surface.

[0063] The holding module has two first fastening elements 11a. The first fastening elements 11a are designed to be movable, in particular in the form of a snap hook, which deforms elastically when the light module 2 is positioned in the holding module 3 and thereby exerts a force in a direction perpendicular to the reference surface on a contact area 10 on a top surface 9 of the base body 4 of the light module 2 opposite the bottom surface 6. The base body 4 accordingly has contact areas 10 on its top surface 9, which are designed to interact with the first fastening elements 11a of the holding module 3 by exerting a force in a direction perpendicular to the bearing surfaces 7.

[0064] The contact areas 10 are designed, in particular in the form of two indentations or recesses, such that the first fastening elements 11a can be detachably hooked onto the contact areas 10 on the upper surface 9 of the base body 4. In particular, the first fastening elements 11a and the contact areas 10 are designed such that, in the connected state of the holding module 3 and the lighting module 2, the first fastening elements 11a exert a force on the base body 4 in a direction perpendicular to the reference surface and form a detachable, positive-locking connection with the contact areas 10 on the upper surface 9 of the base body 4.

[0065] The first fastening elements 11a are arranged such that the contact areas 10 on the upper surface 9 of the base body 4 are positioned such that the force exerted on the base body 4 by the first fastening elements 11a perpendicular to the reference surface does not cause the base body 4 to tilt. This is achieved by a projection of the contact areas 10 or a connecting line between the contact areas 10 perpendicular to the reference surface intersecting one of the three support surfaces 7 of the light module 2 on a taut virtual surface.

[0066] The basic body 4 also has first side surfaces 14a, a second side surface 14b, and a third side surface 14c, each connecting the bottom surface 6 of the basic body 4 to the top surface 9 of the basic body 4. In the illustrated case, the second and third side surfaces 14b, 14c are formed on opposite sides of the basic body 4, while the first side surfaces 14a together connect the second and third side surfaces 14b, 14c. The basic body 4 can also have one or more fourth side surfaces, which are again opposite the first side surfaces and connect the second and third side surfaces 14b, 14c. In the illustrated case, the first side surfaces 14a form a front face of the basic body 4, while the second and third side surfaces 14b, 14c form sides of the basic body 4.

[0067] In the case shown in the figures, the first side surfaces 14a are defined by an obliquely tapered front region of the base body 4, which has a second recess 16b at its apex. This second recess 16b is V-shaped and defines two first side surfaces 14a that taper sharply / obliquely inwards towards the base body 4.

[0068] The first side surfaces 14a, in particular the first side surfaces formed by the second recess 16b, are designed to interact with a first reference element 15a of the holding module 3 such that at least a first direction of movement of the light module 2, and in the illustrated case also a second direction of movement of the light module 2 perpendicular to the first, is restricted within a plane parallel to the support surfaces 7. In particular, the holding module has a first reference element 15a in the form of a cylindrical pin, which serves as a stop for the first side surfaces 14a formed by the second recess 16b.The pin forms a first stop which interacts with the first side surfaces 14a, formed by the second recess 16b, when the holding module 3 and the light module 2 are connected, and restricts a first and a second direction of movement of the light module 2 perpendicular to the first within a plane parallel to the support surfaces 7 or to the reference surface.

[0069] The first side surfaces 14a, in particular the first side surfaces formed by the second recess 16b, in conjunction with the first reference element 15a in the form of a cylindrical mandrel, have the effect that the front part of the base body 4, and in particular the first side surfaces 14a, are arranged centrally relative to the first reference element 15a after the light module 2 has been inserted into the holding module 3. This is because the chamfered first side surfaces 14a, and in particular one of the chamfered first side surfaces 14a, slide along the first reference element 15a until they are in centered contact with the first reference element 15a.

[0070] The second side surface 14b is further configured to interact with a second reference element of the holding module 3 (not shown here) such that a second direction of movement of the light module 2, perpendicular to the first, is restricted within the plane parallel to the support surfaces 7. In particular, the holding module 3 has a second reference element in the form of a semicircular protrusion, which serves as a stop for the second side surface 14b. The protrusion thus forms a second stop, which interacts with the second side surface 14b when the holding module 3 and light module 2 are connected, and restricts a second direction of movement of the light module 2, perpendicular to the first, within the plane parallel to the support surfaces 7 and the reference surface, respectively. Furthermore, the third side surface 14c has a first recess 16a, which is configured to interact with a movable second fastening element 11b of the holding module 3.In particular, the holding module comprises a second fastening element 11b, which interacts with the first recess 16a in the third side surface 14c of the base body 4 of the light module 2 such that a direction of movement of the light module opposite to the first and second directions of movement is restricted within the plane parallel to the support surfaces 7 and the reference surface, respectively. In particular, the second fastening element 11b and the first recess 16a are designed such that, in the connected state of the holding module 3 and the light module 2, the second fastening element 11b exerts a force on the base body 4 in a direction perpendicular to the third side surface 14c and forms a releasable positive-locking connection with the first recess 16a.

[0071] The second fastening element 11b can have a lever (not shown) designed to repeatedly release the interaction between the second fastening element 11b and the first recess 16a in the third side surface 14c of the light module 2. In particular, the lever can be designed so that a user of the holding module 3 can easily actuate the lever with, for example, a finger to release the interaction between the second fastening element 11b and the first recess 16a. The lever can be designed so that the release of the interaction is repeatable, i.e., so that the release can be performed multiple times without damaging the second fastening element 11b or causing it to lose its function.

[0072] The reference surface and the first fastening elements 11a form a rail designed so that the lighting module 2 can be inserted into the rail. The rail is designed with sufficient play to allow for easy insertion of the lighting module 2. In particular, the rail is designed so that upon contact of the lighting module 2 or the base body 4 of the lighting module 2 with the

[0073] At the reference surface, contact between the holding module 3 and the base body 4 of the lighting module 2 on the upper surface 9 is established solely by the first fastening elements 11a. The rail facilitates the insertion of the lighting module 2 into the holding module 3, as it has upper and lower limits perpendicular to the support surfaces 7, as well as lateral limits within the plane of the support surfaces 7. The tapered front area of ​​the base body 4, and thus the first side surfaces 14a, further facilitate insertion, as these side surfaces can serve as lateral centering aids for insertion into the rail.

[0074] To control the semiconductor light source (n) 5, a printed circuit board 8 comprising electronic components is arranged on the underside 6, providing a driver circuit for the semiconductor light source (n) 5. Particularly in the automotive sector, the EMC requirements for the components or assemblies used are very high, which also applies in particular to the driver circuit of such a lighting module. Therefore, ribs 12a, 12b are also provided, which extend from the underside 6 or the opposite second and third side surfaces 14b, 14c at least partially over the printed circuit board 8 and in particular over the components of the driver circuit that are susceptible to electromagnetic radiation.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiments, two ribs 12a, 12b are provided, extending substantially perpendicularly to the underside 6 from the bottom surface 6 and the opposite second and third side surfaces 14b, 14c, respectively, and comprising a shielding area that extends substantially parallel to the underside 6, at least partially, over the printed circuit board 8 and, in particular, over the components of the driver circuit that are susceptible to electromagnetic radiation. The two ribs 12a, 12b, or their shielding areas, are separated from each other by a gap 13 and, together with the underside, enclose an open cavity 17 in which the printed circuit board 8 is at least partially arranged.

[0076] The ribs 12a, 12b are designed and arranged such that at least the components of the driver circuit that are susceptible to electromagnetic radiation are covered. Furthermore, the ribs 12a, 12b can be designed such that they do not extend over the semiconductor light source (n) 5, thus allowing undisturbed light emission in a direction perpendicular to the underside 6. As shown in Figures 1B and 2B, the recess can be correspondingly larger, or, as shown in Figure 3, the semiconductor light source (n) 5 cannot be covered by shortening the ribs 12a, 12b. It is also possible for the ribs 12a, 12b to extend over the semiconductor light source (n) 5; however, in this case, a recess is provided in the ribs directly above the semiconductor light source (n) 5.

[0077] The ribs have a height h perpendicular to the underside 6 such that the electronic components arranged on the circuit board 8 still have a sufficient distance d from the ribs 12a, 12b to allow the circuit board 8 to be mounted in the cavity 17 formed by the ribs 12a, 12b and the underside 6. For example, the distance d can be at least 3 mm, or at least 2 mm, or at least 0.5 mm.

[0078] As shown in Figures 1B and 2B, the semiconductor light source (n) 5 or a semiconductor light source module can be arranged directly on the base body 4 or the underside 6, respectively. However, it is also possible for the semiconductor light source (n) 5 to be arranged on the circuit board 8, as shown in Figure 3.

[0079] The holding module 3 can also have recesses so that the light module 2 can be inserted into the holding module 3 or the rail of the holding module 3 even despite the areas of the ribs 12a , 12b extending from the underside 6 or the opposite second and third side surface 14b , 14 c essentially perpendicular to the underside 6.

[0080] The base body 4 is furthermore formed from a highly thermally conductive material and serves as a heat sink for the light module 2 or for heat generated in the semiconductor light source 5. The base body 4 can have a plurality of cooling fins extending from the top and / or bottom surface (not shown). As shown in Figure 3, the light module can also have a heat sink 18 comprising cooling fins, which is attached to the base body 4 of the light module for additional cooling.

[0081] The base body 4, and in particular the ribs 12a, 12b, can be produced, for example, by forming. This can be seen in the figures from the bending radii, which result from deforming the material by bending. The basic shape of the base body can be produced, for example, by stamping, so that the base body is formed by a stamped and bent part; however, other methods for producing the basic shape of the base body 4 are also conceivable, such as laser cutting, waterjet cutting, or similar processes.

[0082] REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0083] 1 Lighting device

[0084] 2 lighting modules

[0085] 3 Holding module

[0086] 4 basic shapes

[0087] 5 Haibleir ter light source

[0088] 6 Underside

[0089] 7. Lay down, laugh

[0090] 8 circuit boards

[0091] 9 Top

[0092] 10 Contact area

[0093] Ila, 11b Fastening element

[0094] 12a, 12b rib

[0095] 13 gaps

[0096] 14a, 14b, 14c side surface

[0097] 15a Reference element

[0098] 16a, 16b recess

[0099] 17 Cavity

[0100] 18 heat sinks

[0101] Direction xy, xz, yz Plane h Height d Distance

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Lighting module (2) comprising: a base body (4); a printed circuit board (8) comprising a driver circuit designed to control at least one semiconductor light source (5) and arranged on a bottom surface (6) of the base body (4); and at least one semiconductor light source (5) arranged on the printed circuit board (8) or the base body (4); wherein the base body (4) has at least one rib (12a, 12b) extending from the bottom surface (6) and formed integrally with the base body, which extends at least over the driver circuit arranged on the printed circuit board (8) at a distance from it and electromagnetically shields the driver circuit at least partially;and wherein the base body (4) has at least two opposing ribs (12a, 12b) extending from the underside (6) and formed integrally with the base body, which extend at least over the driver circuit arranged on the circuit board (8) at a distance from it and shield the driver circuit electromagnetically at least partially.

2. Lighting module according to claim 1, wherein the two ribs (12a, 12b) are separated from each other by a gap (13).

3. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the at least one rib (12a, 12b) together with the underside (6) encloses a cavity (17) open on at least one side in which the circuit board (8) is arranged.

4. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the base body (4) is formed by a sheet metal.

5. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one rib (12a 12b) is produced by bending forms .

6. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one rib (12a, 12b) is in electrically conductive connection with the driver circuit, in particular to ground the driver circuit.

7. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one rib (12a, 12b) substantially completely covers the circuit board (8).

8. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one rib (12a, 12b) does not cover the at least one semiconductor light source (5).

9. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a distance between the underside (6) and a surface of the at least one rib (12a, 12b) running substantially parallel to the underside (6) is selected depending on the height of the highest component on the circuit board (8).

10. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the circuit board (8) is glued to the underside (6).

11. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the base body (4) has on its underside (6) three mutually parallel and projecting bearing surfaces (7) which are configured to be arranged on at least one reference surface (8) of a holding module (3); wherein the base body (4) has on an upper surface (9) of the base body (4) opposite the underside (6) at least one contact area (10) which is configured to interact with at least one first fastening element (11a) of the holding module (3) by exerting a force in a direction perpendicular to the bearing surfaces (7), wherein a projection of the at least one contact area a realm (10) or a connecting line (12) between two contact areas (10) perpendicular to the support surfaces (7) lies within or intersects a virtual surface (13) stretched on one of the three support surfaces (7); wherein the base body (4) has at least one first side surface (14a), a second side surface (14b) and a third side surface (14c), each connecting the underside (6) of the base body (4) with the top surface (9) of the base body (4), wherein the at least one first side surface (14a) is configured to interact with at least one first reference element (15a) of the holding module (3) such that at least one first direction of movement (x) of the light module (2) is restricted within a plane (xz) parallel to the support surfaces (7);and wherein the second side surface (14b) is configured to interact with at least one second reference element (15b) of the holding module (3) such that at least one second direction of movement (z) of the light module (2) perpendicular to the first is restricted within the plane (xz) parallel to the support surfaces (7); and wherein the third side surface (14c) has a first recess (16a) configured to interact in contact with a movable second fastening element (11b) of the holding module (3) such that one direction of movement of the light module opposite to the first and second directions of movement (x, z) is restricted within the plane (xz) parallel to the support surfaces (7).

12. Lighting module according to claim 11, wherein the at least one first side surface (14a) is configured to interact with the at least one first reference element (15a) of the holding module (3) such that the at least one first side surface (14a) is centered relative to the at least one first reference element (15a).

13. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the base body (4) is formed by a material that is electrically conductive and in particular thermally conductive, and in particular forms a heat sink.

14. Lighting module according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the at least one semiconductor light source (5) is arranged on a projection of a connecting line (12) between two contact areas (10) perpendicular to the support surfaces (7).

15. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a fastening means for a reflector module, in particular further recesses in the base body (4) for fixing a reflector module.

16. Lighting module according to one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a connector element arranged on the base body (4) and electrically coupled to the at least one semiconductor light source (5), wherein the connector element is configured to cooperate with a connector configured to provide a signal and / or a supply current for the at least one semiconductor light source (5).

17. Lighting device (1) , in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising a lighting module (2) according to one of claims 1 to 16 and a holding module (3) , wherein the lighting module (1) and the holding module (3) are repeatedly detachably connected to each other.

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