Dual Function Light Module Homogeneous Beam Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-function light modules for motor vehicle headlights suffer from an uncomfortable contrast due to a dark area created by a fixed folder when switching between high beam and low beam functions, leading to an uneven light beam.
Innovation Solution
A light module with a projection lens that modifies the trajectory of the high beam light to overlap with the low beam, eliminating the dark area by redirecting light towards the image of the folder's edge, ensuring a seamless and homogeneous light emission without requiring a separate lens for each function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed folder is used to create a cut-off line for dipped beam function, then the dipped beam function complies with regulatory constraints, but a dark area is projected when high beam function is activated, creating uncomfortable contrast
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the folder movable instead of fixed. The folder can be positioned in different locations within the projection lens assembly - in the first position it creates the cut-off line for dipped beam function, and in the second position it moves out of the light path to eliminate the dark area when high beam function is activated. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between maintaining dipped beam compliance and achieving beam homogeneity.
2Ease of operation
If a bender is positioned in front of the light source to form a cut-off line, then the cut-off line is created according to regulatory constraints, but an image of the bender is projected creating a dark space in the high beam
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the folder from the light path when high beam function is needed. The movable folder can be extracted or repositioned to a location where it no longer intercepts the light rays, thereby eliminating the dark space image that would otherwise be projected. This allows the system to maintain cut-off line formation capability while avoiding the beam uniformity issue during high beam operation.
3Device complexity
If a single projection lens is used for both high beam and low beam functions, then the device structure is simplified, but the transition between functions creates a drop in light intensity at the junction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by using a movable folder that dynamically adjusts its position based on the beam function being used. When transitioning from dipped beam to high beam, the folder moves to eliminate the dark area, ensuring continuous light intensity. This dynamic adjustment allows a single projection lens to serve both functions effectively without creating intensity drops at the junction.
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 improves light homogeneity by smoothing the transition between high and low beam functions, enhancing light intensity and reducing driver discomfort from beam irregularities.
Implementation Method 1
The zone modifying the trajectory of the light is compatible with cases in which the high beam/low beam lighting is not decoupled, or only partially decoupled
Implementation Method 2
the folder comprises reflective surfaces
Data Source
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AI summary
A lighting module for motor vehicles is proposed, configurable to perform two functions: first, emitting a beam of light with a cutoff (101), the cutoff delimiting an illuminated area (102) and a dark area (103); and second, emitting a beam of light without a cutoff, illuminating the dark area (103). The lighting module includes a first light source suitable for use with the first function and a second light source suitable for use with the second function. It also includes a bending mechanism arranged to create the cutoff of the beam when the first function is performed.It also includes an optical element (700,800) capable of forming the light beam with or without cut-off, the optical element comprising diopters (302,314), at least one of the diopters having one or more zones, each zone modifying the trajectory of a part of the light, emitted by the second light source, passing through the optical element.