Lighting assembly for a vehicle provided with two high-definition lighting modules and associated vehicle
A dual lighting assembly with high-definition modules on either side of the vehicle's median axis addresses the challenge of integrating safety and clarity in vehicle lighting by optimizing angular fields and functions, ensuring clear message projection and wide visibility without obstructing other drivers.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- VALEO VISION SA
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-18
Smart Images

Figure EP2025086658_18062026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
VEHICLE LIGHTING KIT EQUIPPED WITH TWO HIGH-DEFINITION LIGHT MODULES AND ASSOCIATED VEHICLE
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of motor vehicles and more particularly concerns a lighting assembly for such motor vehicles. Technical problem
[0002] Lighting assemblies correspond to different means of lighting and / or signaling positioned, for example, at the front of the vehicle.
[0003] These lighting assemblies must possess functional characteristics that meet safety standards. Therefore, the emission power of these lighting assemblies is important in order to provide sufficient visibility without obstructing the view of other drivers. Another parameter to consider is the processing of the light beam by these lighting assemblies, and more specifically the shape of the beam projected onto the road, in order to ensure the driver has a sufficiently wide and deep field of vision for safe driving, with the road scene adequately illuminated and their own vehicle clearly visible to other road users.
[0004] Recently, new high-definition light modules have been integrated into lighting systems. These modules project a symbol or message onto the road in front of the vehicle, for the driver's attention. This symbol or message might, for example, indicate a speed limit or a potential hazard. It is therefore clear that the light module associated with such a function must be high-definition to ensure the projected message is legible and understandable.
[0005] However, integrating a high-definition light module into a lighting system that must comply with a safety standard relating to the extent of the field of vision is complicated, because respecting a wide extent of the projected light beam to perform the regulatory lighting functions is difficult to reconcile with the need for a narrow field of vision required to project clear and perfectly legible symbols or messages onto the road for the user.
[0006] The present invention addresses this problem by providing a lighting assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising a first lighting device and a second lighting device, these two lighting devices being configured to be positioned on either side of a longitudinal median axis of the vehicle. In other words, one of the two lighting devices is configured to be positioned on one side of the longitudinal median axis of the vehicle, while the other of the two lighting devices is configured to be positioned on the opposite side of this same axis.
[0007] According to the invention, each of the lighting devices comprises a first lighting module and a second lighting module, the first lighting modules of the first lighting device and the second lighting device being configured to participate in the realization of a first lighting function while the second lighting modules of the first lighting device and the second lighting device being configured to generate corresponding high-definition pixelated light beams.
[0008] In addition, the second light module of the first light device is configured to generate a first high-definition light beam with a first horizontal angular field, while the second light module of the second light device is configured to generate a second high-definition light beam with a second horizontal angular field, when the first light beam and the second light beam are projected onto a vertical screen.
[0009] The second horizontal angular field is greater than the first horizontal angular field and greater than 32°.
[0010] Furthermore, the second high-definition light beam is located at least partially above the first light beam; in this case, the second light beam overlaps at least partially with the first, and its center is positioned above the center of the first. In addition, the second light beam is located at least partially above a horizontal reference axis of the vertical screen, such that its center is positioned above this horizontal reference axis.
[0011] According to the invention, the second light module of the first lighting device and the second light module of the second lighting device are configured to operate a common lighting function, referred to as the second lighting function, which is an adaptive lighting function. The second light module of the first lighting device is also configured to operate a third lighting function, which is a road writing function.
[0012] Finally, one of the second light modules includes a light source identical to the light source of the other second light modules, and optical means different from the optical means of the other second light modules.
[0013] In this document, "high definition" means that each second light module comprises a light source consisting of thousands of elementary light-emitting sources. Furthermore, each second light module is configured to emit a pixelated light beam containing at least 1000 pixels. A pixel in the pixelated light beam can correspond to a single elementary light-emitting source or to a group of elementary light-emitting sources.
[0014] The median longitudinal axis is the median longitudinal axis of the vehicle equipped with the lighting assembly, parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal axis of travel. It separates the lighting devices in that one lighting device is located on one side of this median longitudinal axis and the other lighting device is located on the opposite side of this median longitudinal axis. In other words, the first lighting device and the second lighting device are, for example, positioned at the left and right headlights of the vehicle.
[0015] The "horizontal field of view" (or the full name "horizontal field of view") of a light beam refers to the extent of that beam along the vertical direction, expressed in degrees (°), measured on a vertical screen when the light beam is projected onto that screen. A "vertical screen" is defined as a projection screen equipped with an orthonormal coordinate system, for example, located 25 meters from the light source. Generally, a photometric grid consisting of points placed on this screen can be represented. The photometric grid is equipped with the values for maximum and / or minimum luminous intensity or luminous flux, in accordance with regulations in the field of automotive lighting.
[0016] The lighting system according to the invention thus enables, in addition to a basic lighting function—namely, short- and / or medium-range lighting—at least one other high-definition supplementary lighting function at different heights, achieved through the vertical offset of the first high-definition light beam relative to the second high-definition light beam. In particular, the second light module of the proposed second lighting device is configured primarily to manage a high-definition light function with a wide field of vision above the horizontal reference axis. In this case, this light function is an adaptive driving beam (ADB) function, hereinafter referred to as the ADB function, implemented by the supplementary beam within a driving beam.This function creates shadow zones where another vehicle is detected. In other words, the second light module of the second lighting device is configured to operate a long-range road beam illumination function.
[0017] Furthermore, the second module of the first device provides support in implementing this adaptive lighting function. Indeed, since the beams generated by the second light modules overlap at least partially, the overlap zone can be the area where both second modules perform the same ADB lighting function. In this way, the overlap zone offers several possibilities for creating shadows thanks to the presence of two pixelated beams within the same illuminated area.
[0018] Thanks to the pixelation of the second light modules, it is possible to create shadow zones corresponding to the size of the detected vehicle, while leaving light elsewhere. Thus, the ADB function improves the driver's visual comfort, especially during night driving, without dazzling other drivers.
[0019] Furthermore, the light beam generated by the second module of the second lighting device can also form the upper part of a cutoff lighting beam, by integrating the cutoff edge into this upper part.
[0020] As for the second light module of the first lighting system, this second module is configured to operate a road writing function. The projection aims to provide driving-related information to the vehicle's driver without requiring them to change their gaze. The road writing function thus enhances driving safety.
[0021] This explains the advantage of having the second light module of one of the lighting devices—in this case, the first light—in high definition with a narrow beam angle. The road writing function is properly implemented when clear, bright projection of symbols or messages onto the road for the driver's attention is guaranteed. The narrow beam angle and high definition ensure a sharp, legible projection, making the message easy to understand.
[0022] In this case, the second light module of the first lighting unit is configured to contribute to the short- and / or medium-range lighting function. Generally, the short- and / or medium-range lighting function is provided by a low-beam headlight, also known as a dipped beam or low beam. This low-beam headlight is located primarily in the lower part of the area illuminated by the entire lighting system. On a vertical screen, the low-beam headlight mainly occupies the area around and below the horizontal reference axis. According to automotive lighting regulations, the low-beam headlight includes a cutoff line with a kink. In this case, the second light module of the first lighting unit can emit a beam corresponding to the kink.This part can therefore be combined with a horizontal cut-off beam (called "flat beam" in English) generated by the first modules to form the regulatory cut-off lighting beam.
[0023] As proposed, the second light module of the first light device is multifunctional: it helps to create shadow areas in the pixelated beam at the location of the detected vehicle, to project information onto the road and to form the bump part in the cut-off line of the cut-off lighting beam.
[0024] Generally, only the first and second lighting devices are sufficient to provide the main lighting functions of a motor vehicle, namely the low beams and high beams. The configuration of each of these devices is therefore simple and compact.
[0025] As explained previously, the second modules of each lighting device perform at least one common function while also having the ability to perform other lighting functions specifically dedicated to each of the second modules.
[0026] Specifically, the second light module of each light device is configured so that their simultaneous operation, with the projection of an associated light function specific to them, namely a light function with a high-resolution light beam and specific angular aperture, can be implemented without the implementation of one of the specific functions by one of the second light modules interfering with the implementation of the other specific functions by the other second light modules.
[0027] For example, the road writing light function can complement the high-definition lighting function. In this configuration, it is possible to adjust the brightness of either of the secondary lighting modules to ensure that the logo or message of the road writing light function remains visible despite the high intensity of the long-range beam.
[0028] Finally, the light source of each second light module is identical in terms of characteristics, and it is the processing of the light rays by optical means, specific to each second light module, which subsequently differs, for example with a different number of lenses or a difference in focal length of these lenses from one second light module to another.
[0029] Using identical light sources in the second lighting modules offers numerous significant technical advantages. This standardization optimizes the supply chain and reduces production costs while simplifying manufacturing and assembly processes. Functionally, the consistent photometric characteristics of both modules ensure visual uniformity, similar aging of the sources, and predictable thermal behavior, all of which contribute to maintaining the quality and reliability of the lighting system throughout the vehicle's lifespan.
[0030] Furthermore, this configuration, where functional differentiation is achieved solely through optical means, offers significant design flexibility and increased modularity. This approach also simplifies maintenance and repairs, with only one type of critical component to manage, while reducing environmental impact through improved recyclability and optimized energy consumption.
[0031] Advantageously, the first light module of the first lighting device and the first light module of the second lighting device can be identical insofar as they both perform the same lighting function. The light beams generated by each of these first light modules overlap to perform this same lighting function, in this case, a first lighting function. The first lighting function could, for example, be the lower part of a lighting beam, whether it be a dimming beam or a high beam.
[0032] The second light modules of each light device have the function of providing a complement to the light function provided by the first light module of the corresponding light device, and their relative position allows them to provide an additional light function at different heights.
[0033] Advantageously, the center of the second high-definition light beam is located between 0.5° and 2° above the horizontal reference axis.
[0034] Advantageously, the first high-definition light beam, when projected onto the vertical screen, is located at least partially below the horizontal reference axis such that the center of the first light beam is located below the horizontal reference axis, and the first horizontal angular field is between 26° and 30°. In this way, the light beams generated by these second, high-resolution light modules have an opening angle, at least along the longitudinal component, that differs from one another so as to optimally implement the additional lighting function associated with them.More specifically, one of the lighting devices, in this case the second lighting module of the first lighting device, is configured to manage the implementation of a high-definition lighting function with a restricted field of view, that is, a field of view with a limited angular opening on either side of a reference axis, primarily towards the bottom of the screen or the space illuminated by the lighting system. Simultaneously, the other lighting device, in this case the second module of the second lighting device, ensures the implementation of a high-definition lighting function with a wide field of view, primarily towards the top of the screen or the space illuminated by the lighting system.
[0035] Advantageously, the center of the first high-definition light beam is located between 0.25° and 1.5° below the horizontal reference axis.
[0036] Advantageously, the second light module of the second light device is configured to operate additional light functions, including the sign lighting function (also called the "signlight" function in English).
[0037] Advantageously, the first and second light modules of the same lighting system are positioned identically relative to each other for every lighting system. For example, the first and second light modules can be aligned vertically or horizontally. The positioning of the two light modules is advantageously strictly identical for each lighting system, with, for example, identical alignment and spacing from one lighting system to another.
[0038] In other words, lighting devices are distinguished from one another by the operating characteristics of the second lighting modules specific to each lighting device, and in particular the angular field of the light beam they generate, and therefore by the lighting function(s) associated with each of these second lighting modules within the lighting device.
[0039] Advantageously, the second light module of a lighting device is configured to emit a light beam with a vertical angular field (or, more precisely, the "vertical field of view") different from that of the light beam emitted by the second light module of the other lighting device. The vertical angular field of the light beam emitted by the second light module may depend on the lighting function associated with it.
[0040] Advantageously, the second light module of one of the lighting devices can be oriented differently from the second light module of the other lighting device. For example, if it is a road writing light, the second light module is preferably angled towards the road to display the message projected onto the road, whereas if it is a light function intended to form the upper part of a light beam, the second light module can be raised to move the projected light beam away from the vehicle, in order to increase the range of the overall light beam thus formed.
[0041] Specifically, in this case where the first lighting device provides a road writing function, the vertical inclination of the second lighting module relative to a horizontal reference plane—that is, a plane parallel to the road on which the vehicle is traveling—is negative in order to project a beam of light towards the ground. The narrowed field of vision, combined with this, ensures the formation of a very clear image, whether it be a symbol or a message. If one of the lighting devices, in addition to the first lighting function, also has a long-range lighting function—in this case, the second lighting device—the associated second lighting module can be oriented vertically at a positive angle relative to the same horizontal plane and the reference axis in order to project a beam of light far ahead of the vehicle and with a wide field of vision, thus complying with regulatory standards.
[0042] According to one embodiment of the invention, the light source of each of the second light modules is a monolithic electroluminescent light source. The electroluminescent source is a solid-state lighting source (a term used to describe a solid-state light source) that comprises electroluminescent elements which use electroluminescence to emit light. Electroluminescence is a known optical and electrical phenomenon in which a material emits light in response to an electric current passing through it, or to a strong electric field. This is distinct from the emission of light due to temperature (incandescence) or the action of chemicals (chemiluminescence). The monolithic electroluminescent light source comprises hundreds or thousands of electroluminescent elements that share the same layer of electroluminescent material and / or the same substrate.Electroluminescent elements can be arranged in a matrix with multiple columns and rows, also called a "monolithic matrix." A monolithic matrix is therefore a grid of electroluminescent elements, or a grid of pixels. Each electroluminescent element in the matrix is electrically independent of the others and emits light or not independently of the other elements in the matrix. Each element of the matrix is controlled individually. Alternatively, the electroluminescent elements can be electrically grouped, for example, by powering them using a parallel or series connection, in order to reduce the number of elements to be managed. To control the light source, it can be coupled with an electronic device capable of powering and controlling the elements of a monolithic matrix of electroluminescent elements.
[0043] This new family of monolithic light-emitting diodes (LEDs) offers a large number of pixels, on the order of thousands, within a single package for increased compactness. It also simplifies the optical design of the light module compared to those using a digital micromirror array (DMD). Indeed, DMDs require not only projection optics but also collimation optics to focus the light rays from a light source, most often a light-emitting diode (LED). In a light module with a monolithic source, only the projection optics are needed to perform direct imaging of this source.
[0044] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first light beam comprises a first number of pixels, the angular opening of each pixel being between 0.05° and 0.10°. Simultaneously, the second light beam comprises a second number of pixels, the angular opening of each pixel being between 0.10° and 0.15°.
[0045] Advantageously, the second light module of one of the light devices is configured to generate a different luminous flux than that generated by the second light module of the other of the light devices.
[0046] For example, in a configuration where the first light device provides a writing light function on the road and the second light device has a long-range lighting function, the latter requires a greater luminous flux to guarantee a light projection ensuring an optimal field of vision.
[0047] Advantageously, the first lighting device is configured to be positioned on the same side as the driver with respect to the median longitudinal axis, while the second lighting device is configured to be positioned on the opposite side of the driver with respect to the median longitudinal axis.
[0048] In the case where the first light device allows a light function for writing on the road and the second light device has a light function for long-range lighting, the second light device is preferably arranged so as to be on the opposite side to the driver in order to avoid obstructing the visibility of third drivers crossing the vehicle.
[0049] Another object of the invention is related to a motor vehicle comprising the lighting assembly according to the invention.
[0050] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description on the one hand, and from several illustrative and non-limiting examples of embodiments given with reference to the attached schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:
[0051] is an illustration of a vehicle seen from above, equipped with a lighting system according to the invention,
[0052] is a front view of a first lighting device that is part of the lighting system of the,
[0053] is a schematic representation of the light beams emitted by the first integrated lighting device within the lighting system, these light beams being projected onto a vertical screen located approximately 25 meters from the vehicle,
[0054] is a front view of a second lighting device that is part of the lighting assembly of the,
[0055] is a schematic representation of the light beams emitted by the second light device integrated within the lighting system, these light beams being projected onto a vertical screen located approximately 25 meters from the vehicle,
[0056] is a schematic representation of the light beams emitted by the first and second lighting devices within the lighting system,
[0057] is a side view of a light module configured to implement a lighting function,
[0058] is a side view of a light module configured to implement a different lighting function than that associated with the light module illustrated in.
[0059] In the following description, the schematic representation of the beams in Figures 3, 5, and 6 is obtained by projecting the light beams onto the vertical screen located 25 meters in front of the vehicle. The vertical screen is equipped with an orthonormal coordinate system with a horizontal reference axis H0 and a vertical reference axis V0. These two reference axes intersect at the origin of the coordinate system at 0°. The numbers indexed on this coordinate system have angular units expressed in degrees or "°".
[0060] Figure 1 illustrates a vehicle 1 seen from above comprising a lighting assembly 2 according to the invention. The lighting assembly 2 is integrated into the vehicle 1, preferably at its front, as illustrated in Figure 1. The lighting assembly 2 extends on either side of a median longitudinal axis 3 dividing the vehicle 1 into two longitudinal portions. In other words, the lighting assembly 2 comprises elements arranged on the left and elements arranged on the right of the vehicle 1, these elements being configured to perform different lighting functions on the road near the vehicle, here at the front of the vehicle 1.
[0061] More specifically, the lighting assembly 2 comprises a first lighting device 4 and a second lighting device 5 arranged on either side of the median longitudinal axis 3, each lighting device 4, 5 being configured to perform a plurality of lighting functions, for example, one or more lighting and / or signaling functions. As illustrated in the figure, the first lighting device 4 is configured to operate, among other things, a road-writing function. Such a lighting function consists of projecting a beam of light onto the road so that a message 6 can be read directly on the road by the driver of the vehicle 1 and be warned of an event, for example, a hazard or a speed limit.Regarding the second light device 5, according to the configuration illustrated in, this one provides a long-range lighting function, ensuring optimal road lighting.
[0062] In this configuration, the first light device 4 includes at least one high-definition light module, enabling the message 6 to be displayed by light projection in a legible and understandable manner.
[0063] Indeed, as illustrated in figures 2 and 3, the first lighting device 4 comprises a first lighting module 71 capable of generating a first basic light beam 41 which helps to perform a first lighting function and a second lighting module 81, corresponding to the high-definition lighting module mentioned previously, capable of projecting a first high-definition light beam 42, which is configured to project the message 6 illustrated in.
[0064] In the example described, the first basic light beam 41 is a cutoff beam with a straight horizontal cutoff, also called a "flat" cutoff in Anglo-Saxon terminology. This cutoff beam helps to illuminate the scene in front of the vehicle over a short to medium distance, for example, a minimum of 30 meters (m) in front of the vehicle. The first basic light beam 41 is located here below the horizontal reference axis H0 and extends over an angular width P of approximately 55°, between -25° and 30° to the left and right of the central vertical reference axis V0.
[0065] Thus, the first basic light beam 41 generated by the first light module 71 is a wide-aperture light beam designed to contribute to illuminating the entire roadway in front of the vehicle. Furthermore, the first basic light beam 41 is offset to the left because it is projected by the first light device 4, which is positioned to the left of the median longitudinal axis 3, as shown in the figure.
[0066] The second high-definition light module 81 of the first light device 4 is configured to project the first high-definition light beam 42 with a horizontal angular field P1 between 26° and 30°, as illustrated in the figure. Here, in the illustrated example, the first high-definition light beam 42 is centered with respect to the vertical reference axis V0 such that its angular extent is approximately 14°, + / - 1°, on either side of this vertical axis, for a total width of 28°. Specifically, as referenced in the figure, the first high-definition light beam 42 has a left lateral limit HD1L positioned at -14°H and a right lateral limit HD1R positioned at +14°H.
[0067] Furthermore, the first high-definition light beam 42 is positioned partly above and partly below the horizontal reference axis V0. In other words, the second light beam 42 has an upper limit HD1U located above the horizontal axis V0 and a lower limit HD1D located below the same axis V0. For example, and not as a limitation, the upper limit HD1U is located at +3°V and the lower limit HD1D is located at -3°V, for a vertical angular range of 6.5°. The center L1 of this beam 42 is located 0.25° below the horizontal axis H0. Thus arranged, the second light beam 42 is perfectly capable of forming the upper part of a high-beam headlight.
[0068] The horizontal angular extent P1 of the first high-definition light beam 42 as presented in the previous paragraph certainly corresponds to a narrow angular opening but sufficient to ensure the medium and / or long-range lighting function.
[0069] Furthermore, as illustrated in the figure, the first high-definition light beam 42 overlaps with the upper part of the first basic light beam 41. This arrangement, combined with the pixelation of the first high-definition light beam 42, creates a kink in this beam, which, in combination with the break in the first basic light beam 41, forms a standard dipped-head beam.
[0070] Therefore, the first lighting device 4 only requires the first lighting module 71 and the second lighting module 81 to perform two main vehicle lighting functions, namely the low beam lighting function and the high beam lighting function.
[0071] Regarding the second lighting device 5, according to the configuration illustrated in, it provides, in addition to the first lighting function common to both lighting devices, a long-range lighting function, ensuring optimal road lighting, schematically illustrating the different light beams emitted by the second lighting device 5.
[0072] More specifically, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the second lighting device 5 comprises a first lighting module 72 capable of generating a second basic light beam 51 which helps to perform the first lighting function previously mentioned, here the lower part of a lighting beam, and a second lighting module 82, corresponding to the high-definition lighting module mentioned previously, capable of projecting a second high-definition light beam 52 specific to the second lighting device, which is configured here to provide long-range lighting of the vehicle as illustrated in, i.e. the upper portion 20 of a high-intensity light beam.
[0073] By way of non-limiting example of the invention, the second high-definition light beam 52, specific to the second lighting device, can be an ADB type light beam, for the English acronym "Adaptive Driving Beam". Such a beam consists of a long-range, high-intensity lighting beam that is segmented, each segment being formed by the implementation of specific pixels of the associated light module, and this beam is particular in that it allows the shape of the beam to be adapted by controlling the light sources to darken one of the segments when a vehicle is detected in the field of vision corresponding to that segment.Of course, this is advantageous insofar as it allows the other segments to be lit at high intensity without risk of dazzling the driver of the detected vehicle, so this function must be implemented by high-definition lighting means, to ensure that the demarcation between a lit segment and an unlit segment is clear.
[0074] The second high-definition light module 82 of the second light device 5 is configured so that the second high-definition light beam 52 extends over a horizontal angular field P2 greater than 32°. In the example described, the second high-definition light beam 52 is centered with respect to the vertical reference axis V0 such that its angular extent is approximately 17°, + / - 1°, on either side of this vertical axis. Specifically, as referenced in Figure 1, the second light beam 52 has a left lateral limit HD2L positioned at -17°H and a right lateral limit HD2R positioned at +17°H, substantially on either side of the central vertical reference axis V0.
[0075] Furthermore, the second high-definition light beam 52 is positioned partly above and partly below the horizontal reference axis V0. In other words, the second light beam 52 has an upper limit HD2U located above the horizontal axis V0 and a lower limit HD2D located below the same axis V0. By way of example, and not limiting the application, the upper limit HD2U is located at +5.5°V and the lower limit HD1D is located at -3°V, for a vertical angular range of 8.5°. According to the invention, and as in the illustrated example, the center L2 of the second high-definition light beam 52 is located 1.25° above the horizontal reference axis H0.
[0076] The second basic light beam 51 generated by the first light module of the second light device 5 is, like the first light device 4, a wide-aperture cutoff beam designed to illuminate the entire roadway in front of the vehicle. According to the figure, the second basic light beam 51 is located below the horizontal reference axis H0 and extends at an angular angle of approximately 55°, between -30° and 25° to the left and right of the central vertical reference axis V0. Thus, relative to this central vertical reference axis V0, the first light beam 51 projected by the first light module is offset to the right because it is projected by the second light device 5, which is positioned to the right of the median longitudinal axis 3, as shown in the figure.
[0077] Furthermore, similarly to the first light device 4, the second light device 5 is configured so that its second high-definition light beam 52 partially overlaps with the upper portion of its second basic light beam 51. In this way, a break in the cutoff can be formed in the second light beam 52, which, in combination with the break in the light beam 51, forms the regulatory cutoff.
[0078] Therefore, in the same way as for the first light device 4, the second light device 5 with only the first light module 72 and the second module 82 is self-sufficient to perform the two main lighting functions of the vehicle, namely the low beam type lighting function and the high beam type lighting function.
[0079] We understand from reading the and the notably that the superposition of the first basic light beam 41 generated by the first light module 71 of the first light device 4 and the second basic light beam 51 projected by the first light module 72 of the second light device 5 generates a global beam which performs or participates in performing the first lighting function, here a lower part of a road lighting beam.
[0080] Such a configuration, that is to say as illustrated and combining what is schematically shown in figures 3 and 5, makes it possible to ensure, through a common operation, a first lighting function and to ensure, through operations proposed by each high-definition lighting device, high-definition lighting functions, among which here is a road writing lighting function and a long-range lighting function, for example of the ADB type, by allocating the means necessary for the realization of these additional high-definition lighting functions to specific lighting modules for each lighting device.
[0081] Therefore, within each high-definition lighting system, specific lighting resources can be provided for the optimal implementation of one of the additional high-definition lighting functions. Each of these additional functions is optimally implemented to the extent that the resolution and angular field of the projected beam are provided for said additional function. Thus, the difference between the first horizontal angular field P1 and the second angular field P2 allows for the optimal implementation of each of the lighting functions of the associated lighting system 4, 5. As a further example, the resolution of a lighting module linked to the road writing function is higher than the resolution of a lighting module linked to the long-range lighting function, because the message 6 resulting from the road writing function must be clear and legible.
[0082] The advantage of the lighting assembly 2 according to the invention is thus its ability to implement two distinct high-definition lighting functions when performed simultaneously, without the development of means associated with the implementation of one of these functions interfering with the development of means associated with the implementation of the other. It is therefore possible, according to the invention, both to optimally implement the road writing function, which requires the sharpest possible resolution within a limited field of vision for the driver, and to optimally implement a long-range lighting function, which requires a sufficient field of vision to cover the road scene.
[0083] According to the lighting assembly 2 illustrated, the first lighting device 4 is configured to be positioned on the same side as the driver with respect to the median longitudinal axis 3, while the second lighting device 5 is configured to be positioned on the opposite side from the driver with respect to the median longitudinal axis 3. According to the example described, positioning the first lighting device 4 on the driver's side allows the driver to quickly see and read the message 6. Depending on the vehicle model 1, and more particularly depending on the driving side associated with the vehicle equipped with the lighting assembly according to the invention, the first lighting device 4 can therefore be positioned on the left or right side of the vehicle 1.
[0084] Regarding the arrangement of the modules within the lighting devices, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 4, the spatial organization of the first lighting module 71,72 and the second lighting module 81,82 is the same for the first lighting device 4 and the second lighting device 5 illustrated there. In each of Figures 2 and 4, the first lighting module 71 or 72 and the second lighting module 81 or 82 are vertically aligned with each other, but any configuration is possible, the essential point being that it is identical or substantially identical for the two lighting devices 4, 5, for example the spacing between the lighting modules 71 or 72, 81 or 82.
[0085] As previously mentioned, the first light module 71 or 72 is configured to perform a first lighting function. This first lighting function is the same for both lighting devices 4 and 5. For example, the first lighting function could be the function of illuminating the lower part of a light beam described earlier.
[0086] In one embodiment, the second light module 81 or 82 is configured to implement a different lighting function from one light device 4, 5 to the other. Thus, according to the example in Figure 1, the first light device 4 is configured to operate at least two lighting functions: a first lighting function operated by the first light module 71 and a second lighting function operated by the second light module 81, which corresponds to the road writing function shown in Figures 1 and 2. The second light device 5 is also configured to operate at least two lighting functions: the first lighting function operated by the first light module 72 and a third lighting function operated by the second light module 82, which corresponds to the long-range lighting function, i.e., the formation of the upper part of a light beam, shown in Figures 1 and 3.
[0087] It is thus understood that the two different lighting functions illustrated correspond to the second lighting function implemented by the second lighting module 81 of the first lighting device 4 and the third lighting function implemented by the second lighting module 82 of the second lighting device 5. In this example, which is not exhaustive, the lighting function implemented by the second lighting module 81 or 82 of each lighting device 4, 5 is exclusive to those devices. The second lighting function is therefore not implemented by the second lighting device 5, just as the third lighting function is not implemented by the first lighting device 4. This ensures that the ideal angular aperture is implemented for each lighting function considered.According to the example illustrated, it is therefore possible to combine a road writing light function and a high long-range lighting light function, in order to generate both a road writing light beam, and an upper part of a high-definition light beam, for example for the formation of an ADB type beam, meeting the safety standards related to the field of vision generated by said light beam.
[0088] That being said, in another operating mode of the lighting system 2, it is also possible for the two high-definition lighting modules 81 and 82 to perform the same additional high-definition lighting function. Indeed, as illustrated in Figure 1, the second light beams 42 and 52 overlap in a zone of overlap around the horizontal reference axis. It is therefore conceivable that these two beams 42 and 52 contribute to the second lighting function, namely the ADB function, which consists of creating shadow zones, or black holes, finely adapted to the third vehicle(s) detected in this zone of overlap.
[0089] Each lighting device 4, 5 may include one or more additional lighting modules 91, 92 performing a given lighting function, including signaling functions such as the daytime running lamp (DRL) function, and / or the position lamp (PL) function, and / or the turn indicator (TI) function.
[0090] Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the second luminous modules 81 and 82 of the lighting devices of the lighting assembly according to the invention. Following the configuration described in Figure 1, Figure 1 illustrates a second luminous module 81 implementing a road writing function, and Figure 2 illustrates a second luminous module 82 implementing a long-range lighting function.
[0091] Initially, these two figures schematically illustrate the presence in the two second light modules 81 and 82 of a light source 101 or 102, whose characteristics may be identical or different from one second light module to the other, and of optical means 121 or 122 for processing the light rays emitted by the light source 101 or 102 of the second light module 81 or 82, which are different from one second light module to the other. For example, depending on the lighting function implemented, the optical means 121 or 122 may differ from one second light module to the other in terms of the type or size of lenses, the number of lenses, or the focal length of one or more lenses.
[0092] This difference in the optical means of the second light modules can allow the implementation of what was previously mentioned as the main difference between the second light modules of one light device and another, namely the specific angular opening of the light beam they project.
[0093] In one example, the light source 101 of the second light module 81 of the first light device 4 is identical to the light source 102 of the second module 82 of the second light device 5. In parallel, the respective optical means 121 and 122 are designed to exhibit different optical powers. This configuration can be associated, for example, with the configuration of the second light beams 42 and 52 as shown in Figures 2, 3, and 5. Furthermore, the second light modules 81 and 82 can be configured to project the light beams 42 and 52 in high definition such that each of these beams has a number of pixels corresponding to the number of elementary light-emitting sources of the associated light source.In such a case, the same light source in both light modules 81, 82 and the optical means 121, 22 can be chosen so that the resolution of each pixel in the second beam 42 is approximately 0.08° for a total width P1 of 28°, and the resolution of each pixel in the second beam 52 is approximately 0.12° for a width P2 of 34°. It is observed that these resolution values are advantageously suited to the high-definition lighting functions described above.
[0094] According to another example, the two second light modules 81 and 82 can differ in the characteristics of their light source 101 or 102, whether physical characteristics, such as the specific luminous flux of each source, or operating characteristics, such as the luminous intensity at which these light sources are driven. Preferably, to return to the example of the lighting functions described earlier, the light source 101 or 102 providing the projection of a long-range light beam has a higher luminous intensity, for example a luminous flux of around 750 lm, than the light source 10 providing the projection of a road writing light beam, with, for example, a luminous flux of around 500 lm.
[0095] The second light module 81 illustrated and the second light module 82 illustrated are also distinguished from each other by their vertical inclination 131 and 132 with respect to a horizontal reference plane 14, more precisely by the vertical inclination 13 of the light beam 11 generated with respect to this horizontal reference plane 14. Such a vertical inclination is dependent on the light function generated by the second light module 8. In figures 7 and 8, the second light module 81 or 82 is inclined in order to implement such a vertical inclination 131 or 132, but the second light module 81 or 82 can remain upright, and it is the optical means mentioned previously that cause the vertical inclination 131 or 132.
[0096] If the second light module 81 is intended to implement a road writing function, the generated light beam 111 is preferentially inclined vertically towards the road, as illustrated in Figure 1, in order to project the light beam 111 onto the road. The vertical inclination 131 creates a downward shift of -0.5° in the first high-definition light beam 42, as shown in Figure 1, Figure 1 being an illustrative representation to schematically represent the vertical inclination 131.
[0097] Conversely, if the second light module 82 is intended to implement a long-range lighting function, the generated light beam 112 is preferentially inclined vertically upwards, as illustrated in Figure 1, in order to project the light beam 112 further and improve the field of vision. The vertical inclination 132, for example, creates an upward shift of the second high-definition light beam 52 of +1.25°, as shown in Figure 1, which is an illustrative representation to schematically represent the vertical inclination 132.
[0098] The configuration of the second light modules 81 and 82 illustrated in figures 7 and 8 thus makes it possible to optimize the light function associated with said second light modules.
Claims
Lighting assembly (2) for a motor vehicle (1), comprising a first lighting device (4) and a second lighting device (5), these two lighting devices (4, 5) being configured to be arranged on either side of a median longitudinal axis (3) of the vehicle (1), in which: each lighting device (4, 5) comprises a first lighting module (71, 72) and a second lighting module (81, 82), the first lighting modules (71, 72) of the first lighting device (4) and of the second lighting device (5) being configured to participate in the realization of a first lighting function of short and / or medium range illumination while the second lighting modules (81, 82) of the first lighting device (4) and of the second lighting device (5) being configured to generate corresponding high-definition pixelated light beams (11),the second light module (81) of the first light device (4) is configured to generate a first high-definition light beam (42) having a first horizontal angular field (P1), while the second light module (82) of the second light device (5) is configured to generate a second high-definition light beam (52) having a second horizontal angular field (P2), when said first light beam (42) and said second light beam (52) are projected onto a vertical screen,and the second horizontal angular field (P2) is greater than the first horizontal angular field (P1) and greater than 32°; and the second high-definition light beam (52) is located at least partially above the first high-definition light beam (42) and at least partially above a horizontal reference axis (H0) of the vertical screen such that the center (L2) of said second light beam is located above the horizontal reference axis; characterized in that the second light module (81) of the first light device (4) and the second light module (82) of the second light device (5) are configured to operate a common light function, called the second light function,which is an adaptive lighting function; the second light module (8) of the first light device (4) is configured to further operate a third light function, which is a road writing light function; and one (81) of the second light modules comprises a light source (101) identical to the light source (102) of the other (82) of the second light modules, and optical means (121, 122) different from the optical means of the other of the second light modules (81, 82). Light assembly (2) according to claim 1, wherein the center (L2) of the second high-definition light beam (52) is located between 0.5° and 2° above the horizontal reference axis (H0). Light assembly (2) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first high-definition light beam (42), when projected onto the vertical screen, is located at least partially below the horizontal reference axis (H0) such that the center (L1) of the first light beam is located below the horizontal reference axis, and in that the first horizontal angular field (P1) is between 26° and 30°. Light assembly (2) according to claim 3, wherein the center (L1) of the first high-definition light beam (42) is located between 0.25° and 1.5° below the horizontal reference axis (H0). Light assembly (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first light module (71, 72) and the second light module (81, 82) of the same light device (4, 5) are positioned with respect to each other in the same way for each light device (4, 5). Light assembly (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light source (101, 102) of each of the second light modules (81, 82) is a monolithic electroluminescent light source. Light assembly (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first high-definition light beam (42) comprises a first number of pixels, the angular opening of each pixel being between 0.05° and 0.10°. Light assembly (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second high-definition light beam (52) comprises a second number of pixels, the angular opening of each pixel being between 0.10° and 0.15°. Light assembly (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second light module (81, 82) of one of the light devices (4, 5) is configured to generate a different luminous flux from that generated by the second light module of the other of the light devices. Light assembly (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first light device (4) is configured to be positioned on the same side as the conductor with respect to the median longitudinal axis (3), while the second light device (5) is configured to be positioned on the opposite side to the conductor with respect to the median longitudinal axis (3). Motor vehicle comprising the lighting assembly according to one of the preceding claims.