Anisotropic Lens Combination for Compact Vehicle Headlamp Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle headlight light modules are bulky due to the need for separate optics and components to generate multiple rule-compliant light distributions, such as low beam and high beam, which increases size and complexity, making them less compact and more costly.
Innovation Solution
A compact light module design featuring a lens combination with varying refractive powers and a light decoupling optics system that allows for the generation of multiple light distributions using a single module, with a lens combination arranged closer to the diaphragm and light exit optics, and a heat sink for semiconductor light sources, reducing the number of components and installation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate optics and components are used for each light distribution function, then each function can be optimized independently, but the overall device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single optical component (the lens combination with anisotropic refractive power) to perform multiple light distribution functions. The lens combination, when combined with different aperture configurations, generates both low-beam and high-beam light distributions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated optics for each function and thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges previously separate optical functions into a unified system. By combining the lens combination with anisotropic refractive power and the aperture in a single integrated optical train, the system achieves multiple light distributions (low-beam, high-beam) that previously required separate optical components, thus reducing the total number of parts and simplifying the overall structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used for different light distributions, then functional requirements are met, but the installation space and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lens combination with anisotropic refractive power serves as a universal optical element that, when paired with different aperture settings, generates multiple required light distributions including low-beam, high-beam, and daytime running lights. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate optical assemblies into a single compact unit, significantly reducing installation space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple light distribution functions into a single integrated optical system comprising the lens combination and aperture. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple separate optical assemblies, thereby reducing the overall volume and installation space required while maintaining the capability to generate all necessary light distributions
3Volume of moving object
If a compact design with fewer components is used, then installation space is reduced, but achieving sharp light-dark boundaries and multiple distributions becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by giving different regions of the lens combination different refractive properties. The lens combination has anisotropic refractive power, meaning it has different refractive indices in different directions (different in the first and second directions perpendicular to the main propagation direction). This local variation in optical properties enables the single lens to perform multiple functions and achieve precise light control with sharp boundaries without requiring additional components
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables the generation of multiple rule-compliant light distributions, including low beam, high beam, and daytime running lights, in a compact and cost-effective manner, with reduced installation space and weight, while maintaining sharp light-dark boundaries and glare-free illumination.
Implementation Method 1
the lens combination has a different refractive power in two spatial directions perpendicular to each other and to the main propagation direction of the light emitted by the light module
Implementation Method 2
a light coupling optic comprising at least one partial optic
Data Source
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AI summary
A light module (8) for a motor vehicle headlight is presented, comprising at least two semiconductor light sources, a light coupling optic (9) having at least one partial optic (9B), and an aperture. The light module is characterized by the fact that a lens combination (48) is arranged between the light coupling optic (9) and the aperture, which is illuminated by at least one of the two semiconductor light sources. The lens combination (48) has different refractive powers in two spatial directions perpendicular to each other and to the main propagation direction of the emitted light. The light coupling optic (9) also has different refractive powers in these two spatial directions, with the refractive power of the light coupling optic (9) being greater in the spatial direction in which the lens combination (48) has a smaller refractive power.