Lighting device for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting device (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising: - a first electronic system (10) comprising a first printed circuit board (12) provided with a first electrical-connection portion (15), - a second electronic system (20) comprising a second printed circuit board (22) provided with a second electrical-connection portion (25), the first electronic system and the second electronic system being placed one on top of the other, and - an edge connector (50) comprising a jaw (52) which is clamped around the first electronic system and the second electronic system, the jaw comprising a first jaw portion (52A) provided with electrical contacts (54) cooperating with the first electrical-connection portion and a second jaw portion (52B) provided with other electrical contacts (55) cooperating with the second electrical-connection portion so as to electrically connect the first electronic system and the second electronic system.

Description

Description Title of the invention: Lighting device for a motor vehicle. TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The technical field of the invention relates generally to automotive lighting and light signaling.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to the field of light modules for lighting or light signaling of motor vehicles.

[0003] In particular, the invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Automotive lighting systems require an increasing number of electrical connections, which are intended to provide control and power to the light sources they contain.

[0005] In particular, for certain automotive lighting devices, printed circuit boards are known to be used to achieve lighting and / or signaling functions. To connect these printed circuit boards to each other and to one or more power supplies, electrical wiring harnesses or pin connectors are commonly used.

[0006] However, a large number of connectors (wires or otherwise) are required. Such a lighting device is therefore particularly expensive to produce.

[0007] Furthermore, the physical space available to integrate such devices is generally limited, and the bulkiness of these lighting devices makes their installation difficult.

[0008] Finally, given the large number of connectors required, the maintenance of these lighting devices is particularly delicate. Summary of the invention

[0009] The present invention proposes to improve electrical connections in lighting devices for motor vehicles, by reducing manufacturing costs and improving the compactness of these lighting devices.

[0010] One aspect of the invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle, the lighting device comprising: - a first electronic system comprising a first printed circuit board equipped with a plurality of first electronic components and at least one first electrical connection part, the first electronic system comprising at least one light source among the plurality of first components, - a second electronic system comprising a second printed circuit board equipped with a plurality of second electronic components and at least one second electrical connection part, the first electronic system and the second electronic system being superimposed on one another, and - an edge connector comprising a jaw enclosing the first electronic system and the second superimposed electronic system, said jaw comprising a first part of the jaw provided with electrical contacts cooperating with at least one first part of the electrical connection of the first electronic system and a second part of the jaw provided with other electrical contacts cooperating with at least one second part of the electrical connection of the second electronic system so as to electrically connect the first electronic system and the second electronic system.

[0011] Thus, advantageously according to the present invention, the use of the on-board connector allows the first electronic system and the second electronic system to be electrically connected without the need for electrical wires. Furthermore, no soldering is required to make this electrical connection.

[0012] Such an assembly reduces manufacturing costs while ensuring an efficient electrical connection. Furthermore, the assembly is easy for an operator to implement and is also readily reproducible. Finally, the lighting device according to the invention is easy to handle and disassemble should a component need replacing.

[0013] Furthermore, the use of this on-board connector allows for easy sharing of an electrical function between the first and second electronic systems without requiring duplication. The use of on-board connectors also facilitates easy connection of the lighting device to other external electronic components (and in particular to a power supply, for example).

[0014] In addition to the characteristics mentioned in the preceding paragraph, the lighting device according to the invention may have one or more additional characteristics from among the following, considered individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0015] - the on-board connector includes a keying element adapted to ensure correct positioning of the on-board connector on the first electronic system and the second electronic system;

[0016] - the error-proofing element takes the form of a wall extending transversely between the first part of the jaw and the second part of the jaw;

[0017] - the thickness of the first electronic system and the second superimposed electronic system is less than 5 millimeters;

[0018] - the on-board connector includes a retaining means for retaining said on-board connector on the first superimposed electronic system and second superimposed electrical system;

[0019] - the means of retention is a means of snapping;

[0020] - there is also provided an additional edge connector comprising an additional jaw clamping the first electronic system and the second electronic system superimposed, said additional edge connector being positioned on an edge, of the first electronic system and the second electronic system, opposite an edge, of the first electronic system and the second electronic system, on which said edge connector is positioned;

[0021] - the first electronic system comprises an isolated metallic substrate and the second electronic system comprises a substrate comprising a composite material made of epoxy resin and glass fibers;

[0022] - the first electronic system and the second electronic system each comprise a substrate comprising a composite material made of epoxy resin and glass fibers;

[0023] - the first electronic system and the second electronic system each comprise an isolated metallic substrate;

[0024] - a thermal interface is positioned between the first electronic system and the second electronic system;

[0025] - an electrically insulating interface is positioned between the first electronic system and the second electronic system;

[0026] - It is also planned to:

[0027] - a third electronic system comprising a third printed circuit board equipped with a plurality of third electronic components and at least one third electrical connection part, the third electronic system comprising at least one other light source from among the plurality of third components, the third electronic system being positioned below the second electronic system, and - another on-board connector comprising another jaw clamping the first electronic system and the third electronic system, said other jaw comprising a first other jaw part provided with electrical contacts cooperating with at least a first electrical connection part of the first electronic system and a second other jaw part provided with electrical contacts cooperating with at least a third electrical connection part of the a third electronic system so as to electrically connect the first electronic system and the third electronic system; and

[0028] - It is also planned to:

[0029] - a third electronic system comprising a third printed circuit board equipped with a plurality of third electronic components and at least one third electrical connection part, the third electronic system comprising at least one other light source from among the plurality of third components, the third electronic system being positioned below the second electronic system, and - another edge connector comprising another jaw enclosing the second electronic system and the third electronic system, said other jaw comprising a first other jaw part provided with electrical contacts cooperating with F at least a second electrical connection part of the second electronic system and a second other jaw part provided with electrical contacts cooperating with F at least a third electrical connection part of the third electronic system so as to electrically connect the second electronic system and the third electronic system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0030] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description, which can be read in conjunction with the figures. These figures are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0031] [Fig.1] Fig.1 represents a schematic front view of a first embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention,

[0032] [Fig.2] Fig.2 represents a partial schematic perspective cross-sectional view, along plane A-A of Fig.1, of the first embodiment of the lighting device,

[0033] [Fig. 3] Figure 3 represents a schematic perspective view of an edge connector included in the lighting device according to the invention.

[0034] [Fig.4] Fig.4 represents a schematic perspective view of an initial use of the edge connector included in the lighting device of [Fig.1],

[0035] [Fig.5] Fig.5 represents a schematic perspective view of a second use of the edge connector included in the lighting device of [Fig.1],

[0036] [Fig.6] Fig.6 represents a schematic perspective view of a third use of the edge connector included in the lighting device of [Fig.1],

[0037] [Fig. 7] Figure 7 represents a schematic front view of a second embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention.

[0038] [Fig.8] Figure [Fig.8] represents a schematic rear view of a third embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention,

[0039] [Fig. 9] Figure 9 shows a schematic front view of a fourth embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention, and

[0040] [Fig.10] Fig.10 represents a schematic front view of a fifth embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention.

[0041] For clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical reference symbols across all figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present invention aims to provide a compact, easy-to-install and easy-to-handle lighting device for motor vehicles, with reduced manufacturing costs. More specifically, the present invention provides a lighting device in which the electrical connection between components is made without the use of electrical wires.

[0043] In this description, the vehicle (not shown) in question is a motor vehicle. The term "motor vehicle" is understood to mean any type of motorized vehicle. Hereafter, the terms "vehicle" and "motor vehicle" are used interchangeably to describe the vehicle relevant to this invention.

[0044] Figure 1 shows a front view of a first embodiment of a lighting device 1 according to the invention. Figure 2 shows a partial perspective cross-sectional view of the lighting device 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0045] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the lighting device 1 comprises a first electronic system 10, a second electronic system 20 and an edge connector 50.

[0046] The first electronic system 10 comprises a first printed circuit board 12. This first printed circuit board 12 has a first face 12A and a second face 12B, opposite the first face 12A. The first face 12A and the second face 12B are connected to each other by a peripheral edge 12C. The first printed circuit board 12 is provided, for example here on its first face 12A, with a plurality of first electronic components 13, 14. Among this plurality of first electronic components 13, 14, the first electronic system 10 includes at least one light source 14. This light source 14 is, for example, a light-emitting diode (or LED for "Light-Emitting Diode" according to the commonly used Anglo-Saxon term).

[0047] In the case of a light source corresponding to a particularly energy-intensive function (typically if the lighting device is a lighting module), the first printed circuit board 12 includes an insulated metal substrate (known to those skilled in the art by the acronym SMI or IMS for "Insulated Metal Substrate"). In practice, an isolated metallic substrate comprises an aluminum layer on which a copper layer is formed.

[0048] In the case of a light source corresponding to a less energy-dissipating function (typically if the lighting device is a signaling device), the first printed circuit board 12 comprises a substrate made of a composite material consisting of an epoxy resin and glass fibers. In this description, "composite material" means a material comprising at least two different materials, the combination of which gives the assembly very high strength. In this example, the first printed circuit board is of type FR-4. The use of such a substrate for the first printed circuit board is particularly advantageous for certain applications (especially in the case of signaling devices) because it is less expensive (and therefore reduces the production costs of the lighting device compared to, for example, using an insulated metallic substrate).

[0049] The first printed circuit board 12 has a thickness of less than 2 millimeters (mm). Preferably, this thickness is between 0.5 and 1.6 mm. If the first printed circuit board 12 has an insulated metallic substrate, the thickness is between 1 and 1.5 mm. If the substrate is made from a composite material comprising an epoxy resin and glass fibers, the thickness is, for example, between 0.6 and 1.6 mm.

[0050] As shown in [Fig.2], the first electronic system 10 also includes a first electrical connection part 15. This first electrical connection part 15 enables the electrical connection of the first electronic system 10. Here, the first electrical connection part 15 is formed on the first face 12A of the first printed circuit board 12.

[0051] In practice, this first electrical connection part 15 includes, for example, receptacles (not shown) equipped with conductive tracks enabling electrical contact in order to electrically connect the first electronic system 10 (as described below). To improve the electrical connection and prevent abrasion of the conductive tracks, these are, for example, coated with a tin-based coating.

[0052] As also shown in Figures 1 and 2, the lighting device 1 also includes the second electronic system 20. Similar to what was described for the first electronic system 10, the second electronic system 20 includes a second printed circuit board 22. This second printed circuit board 22 has a first face 22A and a second face 22B, opposite the first face 22A. The first face 22A and the second face 22B are connected by a peripheral edge 22C. The second circuit board Printed plate 22 is equipped, for example here on its first face 22A, with a plurality of secondary electronic components 23, 24. Among this plurality of secondary electronic components 23, 24, the second electronic system 20 comprises at least one power electronics component. Power electronics components include, for example (and in a non-limiting and non-exhaustive manner), transistors, capacitors, inductors, etc.

[0053] Here, the second printed circuit board 22 comprises a substrate made of a composite material consisting of epoxy resin and glass fibers. For example, the second printed circuit board is of type FR-4. The use of such a substrate for the second printed circuit board is particularly advantageous because 11 is particularly suitable for supporting power electronics components. Indeed, the multilayer structure of such a substrate allows these power electronics components to be supported and electrically connected in a small footprint.

[0054] The second printed circuit board 22 has a thickness of less than 2 mm. Preferably, this thickness is between 0.6 and 1.6 mm.

[0055] As shown in [Fig.2], the second electronic system 20 also includes a second electrical connection part 25. This second electrical connection part 25 enables the electrical connection of the first electronic system 20. Here, the second electrical connection part 25 is formed on the second side 22B of the second printed circuit board 22.

[0056] In practice, similarly to the first electronic system 10, the second electrical connection part 25 includes, for example, receptacles (not shown) equipped with conductive tracks enabling electrical contact for electrically connecting the second electronic system 20 (as described below). To improve the electrical connection and prevent abrasion of the conductive tracks, these are, for example, coated with a tin-based coating.

[0057] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 are superimposed on one another. More specifically, the second side 12B of the first printed circuit board The first electronic system 10, 12, is arranged to be in contact with the first face 22A of the second printed circuit board 22 of the second electronic system 20. The thickness of the assembly formed by the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 stacked together is less than 5 mm. Preferably, this thickness is between 1 and 4 mm. This arrangement improves the compactness of the lighting device 1 and thus reduces its size, particularly for integration into the motor vehicle.

[0058] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 are fixed together by means of fastening means 5. These fastening means include, for example, metallic elements (e.g., aluminum) or polymer material. Preferably, the fastening means consist, for example, of at least two screws 5 passing through the thickness formed by the overlapping of the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 (and thus, in practice, through the thickness of the first printed circuit board 12 and the thickness of the second printed circuit board 22). Here, four screws 5 are used.

[0059] Alternatively, a thermal interface can be positioned between the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20. Alternatively, an electrically insulating interface can be positioned between the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20. Alternatively still, an adhesive interface can be introduced between the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 so as to stick the first printed circuit board 12 and the second printed circuit board 22 together.

[0060] Advantageously according to the invention, in order to electrically connect the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20, the lighting device 1 includes the edge connector 50. In the present description, "electrically connect" means to connect each of two systems electrically to one or more external devices or to interconnect them (i.e., to connect them electrically).

[0061] As can be seen in Fig. 3, the edge connector 50 includes a jaw 52. This jaw 52 clamps the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20, which are stacked one on top of the other, to make the electrical connection between the two. In other words, the edge connector 50, and more specifically the jaw 52, ​​sandwiches the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20.

[0062] More specifically, the edge connector 50 is positioned along an edge of the assembly formed by the superposition of the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 by enclosing this assembly at a portion 7 of the edge 12C and the edge 22C. The edge connector 50 is therefore positioned along this portion 7 of the edge 12C and the edge 22C.

[0063] For this purpose, the jaw 52 comprises a first jaw part 52A and a second jaw part 52B. The first jaw part 52A and the second jaw part 52B extend parallel to each other and are connected by a connecting portion 53. Essentially, an opening 51 is thus formed between the first jaw part 52A and the second jaw part 52B. This The opening 51 is therefore adapted to receive the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 superimposed (at the level of the portion of the edge 12C and the edge 22C).

[0064] In practice, the opening 51 is adapted to receive a portion of the assembly formed by the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 superimposed, this portion comprising the first electrical connection part 15 of the first electronic system 10 and the second electrical connection part 25 of the second electronic system 20.

[0065] This arrangement is used to allow the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 to be electrically connected. For this purpose, the first jaw part 52A and the second jaw part 52B each include electrical contacts 54, 55 adapted to be coupled respectively with the conductive tracks of the first electrical connection part 15 of the first electronic system 10 and with the conductive tracks of the second electrical connection part 25 of the second electronic system 20.

[0066] In practice, to ensure that electrical contact is correctly established between, on the one hand, the conductive tracks of the first electrical connection part 15 of the first electronic system 10 and the electrical contacts 54 of the first jaw part 52A of the edge connector 50, and, on the other hand, the conductive tracks of the second electrical connection part 25 of the second electronic system 20 and the electrical contacts 55 of the second jaw part 52B of the edge connector 50, pads (not shown) can be formed on the conductive tracks of the first electrical connection part 15 of the first electronic system 10 and on the conductive tracks of the second electrical connection part 25 of the second electronic system 20. The use of these pads thus ensures the effectiveness of the electrical connection between the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20.

[0067] These pads are formed, for example, by adding material such as conductive adhesive or solder paste. These pads have a thickness of less than 0.3 mm, preferably less than 0.2 mm, and do not extend beyond (in width and length) the receptacles of the relevant conductive tracks.

[0068] The use of the on-board connector is particularly advantageous because it allows the first and second electronic systems to be electrically connected without the need for wires. Furthermore, no soldering is required for this electrical connection. This assembly reduces manufacturing costs while ensuring an efficient electrical connection. Moreover, the assembly is easy for an operator to implement and is also readily reproducible. Finally, the device luminous according to the invention is easy to handle and disassemble in case of need to replace an element.

[0069] Furthermore, the use of this on-board connector makes it easy to share an electrical function between the first electronic system and the second electronic system without having to duplicate it.

[0070] As can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the on-board connector 50 includes electrical terminals associated, on the one hand, with electrical contacts 54 and 55 and, on the other hand, connected to electrical wires 60. These electrical wires 60 allow, in particular, the connection of the lighting device 1 to an external power supply (to the lighting device). Alternatively, these electrical wires 60 can allow the connection of the lighting device 1 to other devices such as a fan, for example, or to a headlight of the motor vehicle, or to other electronic systems. In other words, the electrical wires 60 allow the reception and / or transmission of electrical current and / or data concerning the lighting device 1.

[0071] In practice, the electrical terminals not connected to an electrical wire correspond to a direct interconnection between the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20.

[0072] Figure 4 shows an example of the lighting device 1 in which all the electrical terminals of the edge connector 50 are connected to electrical wires 60. In such an example, the first electronic system and the second electronic system are electrically connected without being directly interconnected with each other.

[0073] Figure 5 shows an example of the lighting device in which two electrical terminals are not connected to electrical wires. These two electrical terminals thus serve to allow the direct interconnection between the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20. Among the electrical terminals used in this example, some can be used to connect the lighting device to a power supply, while others can be used to connect the lighting device to another electronic system (with another printed circuit board, for example) or to a fan.

[0074] Figure 6 shows an example of the lighting system in which none of the electrical terminals are connected to an electrical wire. This means that all the electrical terminals of the on-board connector are used for the direct interconnection of the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the edge connector 50 includes a keying element 56 (visible in [Fig. 3]). This keying element 56 ensures the correct positioning of the edge connector 50 on the assembly formed by the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 superimposed. In other words, this keying element 56 prevents assembly errors and in particular coupling errors between electrical contacts 54, 55 of the edge connector 50 and the conductive tracks of the first electrical connection part 15 of the first electronic system 10 and the conductive tracks of the second electrical connection part 25 of the second electronic system 20.

[0076] As shown in [Fig. 3], the keying element 56 is in the form of a wall 56 extending transversely between the first jaw part 52A and the second jaw part 52B. In other words, the wall 56 extends through a portion of the opening 51, projecting from the connecting portion 53 of the jaw 52 of the edge connector 50. This wall 56 is, for example, adapted to cooperate with a notch formed in the first printed circuit board 12 of the first electronic system 10 and in the second printed circuit board 22 of the second electronic system 20 so as to guarantee a single mounting position for the edge connector 50 on the assembly formed by the superimposed first electronic system 10 and second electronic system 20. This then ensures a correct electrical connection of the on-board connector to the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20.Furthermore, this also makes assembly easier for the operator (since there is only one correct mounting position).

[0077] In practice, the wall can be positioned at any position (between the electrical contacts) in the jaw 52 of the edge connector 50: in the center, at either end, or inside the jaw (as shown in [Fig.3]).

[0078] To prevent accidental disengagement of the edge connector 50, the latter includes a retaining means (not visible in the figures) for securing the edge connector 50 to the assembly formed by the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 superimposed. This retaining means is, for example, a snap-fit ​​mechanism. In practice, this retaining means is, for example, formed by elastic tabs that snap into complementary means formed on the first side 12A of the first printed circuit board 12 of the first electronic system 10 and on the second side 22B of the second printed circuit board 22 of the second electronic system 20, so as to ensure that the edge connector 50 is retained on the assembly formed by the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 superimposed.

[0079] This retaining device has the advantage of being easily disengaged by an operator, as simply applying pressure to the retaining device is enough to remove the edge connector from the assembly formed by the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 superimposed. It should be noted that this system requires the intervention of an operator to allow this disengagement (this cannot therefore be caused by vibrations or shocks that the lighting device would undergo).

[0080] Alternatively, the indicator light may include a means for verifying the connection of the on-board connector to ensure that the on-board connector is correctly connected to the first and second electronic systems. In practice, this verification means is, for example, formed by a shorter conductive trace among one of the conductive traces formed on the first printed circuit board 12 or on the second printed circuit board 22. The corresponding electrical contact of the on-board connector may, for example, be connected to an external diagnostic device which, in the event of incorrect positioning of the on-board connector, transmits an information message to alert to the incorrect assembly of the on-board connector on the first and second electronic systems.In other words, when the electrical contact in question is not properly connected to this shorter conductive track, the operator is informed of the need to redo the assembly.

[0081] This means of verification is for example of the type of a CPA connector (for "Connector Position Assurance" according to the original Anglo-Saxon name).

[0082] Advantageously, the lighting device according to the invention corresponds to a lighting module integrated into a headlight assembly of the motor vehicle. In this case, the first electronic system comprises an insulated metallic substrate and the second electronic system comprises a substrate made of a composite material consisting of an epoxy resin and glass fibers.

[0083] Alternatively, the lighting device according to the invention may correspond to a signaling device integrated into a headlight unit of the motor vehicle. In this case, the first electronic system and the second electronic system each comprise a substrate made of a composite material consisting of an epoxy resin and glass fibers.

[0084] Alternatively, the lighting device according to the invention may be such that the first electronic system and the second electronic system each comprise an insulated metallic substrate. In this case, the first and second electronic systems are arranged so that their respective electrical connection points are positioned to be clamped by the edge connector. Thus, the associated electrical contacts are accessible from the outside, and it is possible to connect the first and second electronic systems via the edge connector.

[0085] The structure proposed by the invention can therefore be used for all these types of lighting devices integrated into the motor vehicle.

[0086] Figure 7 shows a schematic front view of a second embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention. The elements common to the first embodiment described above are identified by the same reference numerals and are not described again in detail hereafter.

[0087] This second embodiment of the luminous device 100 differs from the first embodiment described above essentially because of the means of fixing used to fix together the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20.

[0088] In this second mounting mode, the light device 100 includes an additional edge connector 150 used to perform this mounting function of the first electronic system and the second electronic system.

[0089] This additional edge connector 150 has the same characteristics as the edge connector 50 described previously. In particular, the additional edge connector 150 includes a jaw 152 that clamps the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20. In practice, the jaw 152 is wider than the jaw 52 in order to allow it to clamp both the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20.

[0090] The main difference lies in the fact that this additional edge connector 150 is not used to electrically connect the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20, but rather to hold them together mechanically. Specifically, the electrical contacts of the additional edge connector are not coupled to any track of the first electrical connection part 15 of the first electronic system 10, nor to the second electrical connection part 25 of the second electronic system 20.

[0091] In practice, in order to ensure optimal fixing of the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20, the additional edge connector 150 is positioned on an edge (of the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20) opposite to that on which the edge connector 50 is positioned.

[0092] This arrangement allows the assembly formed by the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20 to be sandwiched between two opposing zones, thus holding them together. This arrangement is particularly advantageous because it does not require modification of the printed circuit boards (in particular, it is not necessary to drill the printed circuit boards for the insertion of screws as shown in Figures 1 and 2, for example).

[0093] Figure 8 shows a schematic rear view of a third embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention. The elements common to the first embodiment described above are identified by the same reference numerals and are not described in detail again hereafter.

[0094] In this third embodiment, the lighting device 200 includes a third electronic system 30 (in addition to the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20). This third electronic system 30 is similar to the first electronic system 10 described previously. It includes a third printed circuit board 32. This third printed circuit board 32 has a first face 32A and a second face 32B, opposite the first face 32A. The first face 32A and the second face 32B are connected by a peripheral edge 32C. The third printed circuit board 32 is provided, for example here on its second face 32B, with a plurality of first electronic components (not shown in the figures). Among this plurality of first electronic components, the third electronic system 30 includes at least one light source (not shown). This light source is, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED).

[0095] Similar to the first electronic system 10 described previously, in the case of a light source corresponding to a particularly energy-consuming function (typically if the light device corresponds to a lighting module), the third printed circuit board 32 includes an insulated metallic substrate.

[0096] In the case of a light source corresponding to a less energy-dissipating function (typically if the lighting device is a signaling device), the third printed circuit board 32 comprises a substrate made of a composite material consisting of an epoxy resin and glass fibers. In this example, the third printed circuit board is of type FR-4. The use of such a substrate for the third printed circuit board is particularly advantageous for certain applications (especially in the case of signaling devices) because it is less expensive (and therefore allows for lower production costs for the lighting device compared to the use of, for example, an insulated metallic substrate).

[0097] The third printed circuit board 32 has a thickness of less than 2 mm. Preferably, this thickness is between 0.5 and 1.6 mm. If the third printed circuit board 32 has an insulated metallic substrate, the thickness is between 1 and 1.5 mm. If the substrate is made from a composite material comprising an epoxy resin and glass fibers, the thickness is, for example, between 0.6 and 1.6 mm.

[0098] The third electronic system 30 also includes a third electrical connection part (not visible in the figures). This third electrical connection part allows for the electrical connection of the third electronic system 30. Here, the third electrical connection part is formed on the second side 32B of the third printed circuit board 32.

[0099] In practice, this third electrical connection component includes, for example, receptacles (not shown) equipped with conductive tracks that allow electrical contact for electrically connecting the third electronic system 30 (as described below). To improve the electrical connection and prevent abrasion of the conductive tracks, these are, for example, coated with a tin-based coating.

[0100] As shown in [Fig. 8], the first electronic system 10, the second electronic system 20, and the third electronic system 30 are stacked one on top of the other. Here, the second electronic system 20 is positioned between the first electronic system 10 and the third electronic system 30. More specifically, the second face 12B of the first printed circuit board 12 of the first electronic system 10 is arranged to be in contact with the first face 22A of the second printed circuit board 22 of the second electronic system 20. Furthermore, the second face 22B of the second printed circuit board 22 of the second electronic system 20 is arranged to be in contact with the first face 32A of the third printed circuit board 32 of the third electronic system 30.The combined thickness of the first electronic system 10, the second electronic system 20, and the third electronic system 30 is less than 7 mm. Preferably, this thickness is between 1 and 6 mm. This arrangement improves the compactness of the lighting device 200 and thus reduces its size, particularly for integration into a motor vehicle.

[0101] As described previously, the first electronic system 10, the second electronic system 20, and the third electronic system 30 are fastened together by means of fasteners (not visible in the figures). These fasteners include, for example, metallic elements (e.g., aluminum) or polymer material. Preferably, the fasteners consist, for example, of at least two screws passing through the thickness formed by the overlapping of the first electronic system 10, the second electronic system 20, and the third electronic system 30.

[0102] Alternatively, similarly to what has been described for the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20, a thermal interface can be positioned between the second electronic system 20 and the third system electronic 30. Alternatively, an electrically insulating interface can be positioned between the second electronic system 20 and the third electronic system 30. Alternatively, a sticky interface can be introduced between the second electronic system 20 and the third electronic system 30 so as to stick the second printed circuit board 22 and the third printed circuit board 32 together.

[0103] As previously described, in order to electrically connect the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20, the lighting device 200 includes the edge connector 50. Advantageously in this embodiment, in order to electrically connect the second electronic system 20 and the third electronic system 30, the lighting device 200 also includes another edge connector 250.

[0104] Although not explicitly shown in the figures, this other edge connector 250 has the same characteristics as the edge connector 50 introduced previously. In particular, the other edge connector 250 includes a jaw 252. This jaw 252 clamps the second electronic system 20 and the third electronic system 30, which are stacked in such a way as to make the electrical connection between the two. In other words, the other edge connector 250, and more specifically the jaw 252, sandwiches the second electronic system 20 and the third electronic system 30.

[0105] In particular, as previously described for the edge connector 50, the jaw 252 of the other edge connector 250 comprises a first jaw portion 252A and a second jaw portion 252B. The first jaw portion 252A and the second jaw portion 252B extend parallel to each other and are connected by a link portion 253. Essentially, an opening (not visible in the figures) is thus formed between the first jaw portion 252A and the second jaw portion 252B. This opening is therefore suitable for receiving the superimposed second electronic system 20 and third electronic system 30.

[0106] This arrangement is used to enable the electrical connection between the second electronic system 20 and the third electronic system 30. For this purpose, the first jaw part 252A and the second jaw part 252B each include electrical contacts (not visible) adapted to be coupled respectively with the conductive tracks of the second electrical connection part 25 of the second electronic system 20 and with the conductive tracks of the third connection part of the third electronic system 30.

[0107] In practice, in order to ensure that the electrical contact is correctly established between, on the one hand, the conductive tracks of the second part of the connection of the second electronic system 20 and the electrical contacts of the first part 252A of the jaw of the other edge connector 250, and, on the other hand, the conductive tracks of the third electrical connection part of the third electronic system 30 and the electrical contacts of the second part 252B of the jaw of the other edge connector 250, pads (not shown) can be formed on the conductive tracks of the second electrical connection part of the second electronic system 20 and on the conductive tracks of the third electrical connection part of the third electronic system 30. The use of these pads thus ensures the effectiveness of the electrical connection between the second electronic system 20 and the third electronic system 30.

[0108] The use of this additional on-board connector is particularly advantageous because it allows the second and third electronic systems to be electrically connected without the need for wires. Such an assembly reduces manufacturing costs while ensuring an efficient electrical connection. Furthermore, the assembly is easy for an operator to implement and is also readily reproducible. Finally, the lighting device according to the invention is easy to operate.

[0109] This embodiment with the three electronic systems is particularly advantageous because it allows, in particular, the implementation of a so-called "dual-function" module. Such a dual-function module allows two lighting functions to be implemented from the same lighting device. Here, the first electronic system performs one lighting function, and the third electronic system performs a second lighting function. The first lighting function is, for example, a "dipped beam" function (or "low-beam" according to the commonly used Anglo-Saxon term), and the second lighting function is, for example, a "main beam" function (or "high-beam" according to the commonly used Anglo-Saxon term).

[0110] Figure 9 shows a schematic front view of a fourth embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention. The elements common to the third embodiment described above are identified by the same reference numerals and are not described in detail again hereafter.

[0111] More specifically, in this fourth embodiment of the lighting device 300, the other on-board connector 350 allows the first electronic system 10 and the third electronic system 30 to be electrically connected.

[0112] Although not explicitly shown in the figures, this other edge connector 350 has the same characteristics as the edge connector 50 introduced previously. In particular, the other edge connector 350 includes a jaw 352. This jaw 352 clamps the first electronic system 10 and The third electronic system 30 is superimposed to make the electrical connection between the two. In other words, the other edge connector 350, and more specifically the jaw 352, sandwiches the first electronic system 10 and the third superimposed electronic system 30.

[0113] Figure 10 shows a schematic front view of a fifth embodiment of a lighting device according to the present invention. The elements common to the third and fourth embodiments described above are identified by the same reference numerals and are not described in detail again hereafter.

[0114] This fifth embodiment corresponds to a combination of the third and fourth embodiments. In this fifth embodiment, the lighting device 500 comprises the first electronic system 10, the second electronic system 20, and the third electronic system 30. This lighting device 500 also comprises the edge connector 50 electrically connecting the first electronic system 10 and the second electronic system 20, a first other edge connector 250 electrically connecting the second electronic system 20 and the third electronic system 30 (as described in the third embodiment introduced previously), and a second other edge connector 350 connecting the first electronic system 10 and the third electronic system 30 (as described in the fourth embodiment introduced previously).

[0115] This arrangement is particularly advantageous because it allows for the efficient connection of electronic systems without the need for electrical wires. Such an assembly reduces manufacturing costs while ensuring a reliable electrical connection. Furthermore, the installation is easy for an operator. In addition, the use of onboard connectors also allows for easy connection of the lighting device to other external electronic components (and in particular to a power supply, for example).

Claims

Demands

1. A lighting device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) for a motor vehicle, the lighting device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) comprising: - a first electronic system (10) comprising a first printed circuit board (12) equipped with a plurality of first electronic components (13, 14) and at least one first electrical connection part (15), the first electronic system (10) comprising at least one light source (14) among the plurality of first electronic components, - a second electronic system (20) comprising a second printed circuit board (22) provided with a plurality of second electronic components (23, 24) and at least one second electrical connection part (25), the first electronic system (10) and the second electronic system (20) being superimposed one on top of the other, and - an edge connector (50) comprising a jaw (52) clamping the first electronic system (10) and the second electronic system (20) superimposed, said jaw (52) comprising a first jaw part (52A) provided with electrical contacts (54) cooperating with F at least a first electrical connection part (15) of the first electronic system (10) and a second jaw part (52B) provided with other electrical contacts (55) cooperating with F at least a second electrical connection part (25) of the second electronic system (20) so as to electrically connect the first electronic system (10) and the second electronic system (20).

2. Light device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) according to claim 1, wherein the edge connector (50) includes a keying element (56) adapted to ensure correct positioning of the edge connector (50) on the first electronic system (10) and the second electronic system (20).

3. Light device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) according to claim 2, in which the error-proofing element (56) is in the form of a wall (56) extending transversely between the first jaw part (52A) and the second jaw part (52B).

4. Light device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the thickness of the first electronic system (10) and the second electronic system (20) superimposed is less than 5 millimeters.

5. Light device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the edge connector (20) includes a retaining means for retaining said edge connector (50) on the first electronic system (10) and the second electronic system (20) superimposed.

6. Light device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) according to claim 5, wherein the retaining means is a snap-on means.

7. A light device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, also comprising an additional edge connector (150) comprising an additional jaw (152) enclosing the superimposed first electronic system (10) and second electronic system (20), said additional edge connector (150) being positioned on an edge of the first electronic system (10) and second electronic system (20), opposite an edge of the first electronic system (10) and second electronic system (20), on which said edge connector (50) is positioned.

8. A lighting device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first electronic system (10) comprises an insulated metallic substrate and the second electronic system (20) comprises a substrate comprising a composite material formed of an epoxy resin and glass fibers.

9. A lighting device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first electronic system (10) and the second electronic system (20) each comprise a substrate comprising a composite material formed of an epoxy resin and glass fibers.

10. A lighting device (1; 100; 200; 300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first electronic system (10) and the second electronic system (20) each comprise an insulated metallic substrate.

11. A light-emitting device (200; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, also comprising: - a third electronic system (30) comprising a third printed circuit board (32) provided with a plurality of third electronic components and at least one third electrical connection part, the third electronic system (30) comprising at least one other light source from among the plurality of third components, the third electronic system (30) being positioned below the second electronic system (20), and - another edge connector (250) comprising another jaw (252) clamping the second electronic system and the third electronic system another jaw (252) comprising a first other jaw part (252A) provided with electrical contacts cooperating with F at least a second electrical connection part (25) of the second electronic system (20) and a second other jaw part (252B) provided with electrical contacts cooperating with F at least a third electrical connection part of the third electronic system (30) so as to electrically connect the second electronic system (20) and the third electronic system (30).

12. A light-emitting device (300; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, also comprising: - a third electronic system (30) comprising a third printed circuit board (32) provided with a plurality of third electronic components and at least one third electrical connection part, the third electronic system (30) comprising at least one other light source from among the plurality of third components, the third electronic system (30) being positioned below the second electronic system (20), and - another on-board connector (350) comprising another jaw (352) clamping the first electronic system (10) and the third electronic system (30), said other jaw (352) comprising a first other jaw part (352A) provided with electrical contacts cooperating with F at least a first electrical connection part (15) of the first electronic system (10) and a second other jaw part (352B) provided with electrical contacts cooperating with F at least a third electrical connection part of the third electronic system (30) so as to electrically connect the first electronic system (10) and the third electronic system (30).

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