EP3105498B1 - Portable lamp comprising a device for electrically controlling the geometry of the electric beam - Google Patents

Portable lamp comprising a device for electrically controlling the geometry of the electric beam Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3105498B1
EP3105498B1 EP15707057.4A EP15707057A EP3105498B1 EP 3105498 B1 EP3105498 B1 EP 3105498B1 EP 15707057 A EP15707057 A EP 15707057A EP 3105498 B1 EP3105498 B1 EP 3105498B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
portable lamp
generated
lamp according
control
light
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Not-in-force
Application number
EP15707057.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3105498A1 (en
Inventor
Fabien Genthon
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Zedel SAS
Original Assignee
Zedel SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Zedel SAS filed Critical Zedel SAS
Publication of EP3105498A1 publication Critical patent/EP3105498A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3105498B1 publication Critical patent/EP3105498B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V14/00Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements
    • F21V14/003Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements by interposition of elements with electrically controlled variable light transmissivity, e.g. liquid crystal elements or electrochromic devices
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V23/00Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
    • F21V23/003Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being electronics drivers or controllers for operating the light source, e.g. for a LED array
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V23/00Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
    • F21V23/04Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches
    • F21V23/0442Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches activated by means of a sensor, e.g. motion or photodetectors
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2101/00Point-like light sources

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of portable electric lamps and in particular a frontal portable lamp with an improved control of the management of the geometry of the light beam.
  • FIG. 2 it is a headlamp comprising at least one light-emitting diode 11 of the LED type and an optical sensor 14 housed in its vicinity and intended to capture a signal representative of the light reflected by the surface of an object 16 illuminated by the lamp.
  • a control circuit 13 provides a processing of this signal for the purpose of automatically regulating the power of the LED according to a predetermined threshold. In this way, automatic regulation of the light beam emitted by the lamp is performed without further manual action to adapt the lighting environment, while managing energy consumption.
  • the present invention proposes to significantly improve this situation by proposing a new control device of the geometry of the beam perfectly adapted to these new needs appeared with the new functionalities likely to appear in the modern headlamps.
  • WO 2007/080543 discloses a lamp module comprising at least one LED for light emission, and means for extracting and shaping the light generated by the LED, and a base for connection to a light device .
  • the module comprises at least one switchable cell electrically adapted to receive the light emitted by the LED, which cell, in a first state, transmits the incoming light without substantially altering the light direction and, in a second state, alters the direction of the light. light when the light passes through the cell.
  • WO 2007/007234 (KONINKL PHILIPS ELECTRONICS NV) describes a light module producing light with an electrically variable diffusing pattern.
  • the object of the present invention is to propose a portable lamp structure, such as a frontal one, enabling easier control of the geometry of the light beam.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for controlling the geometry of the beam of a portable lamp, reducing the manufacturing costs but also the size of the lamp.
  • the electro-optical device may be a liquid crystal diffuser controlled either by a current or by a control potential.
  • the pane consists of a PDLC film through which passes through said narrow beam, said PDLC film comprising polarization electrodes for receiving a control potential of the transparency of said film.
  • control potential is generated from a manual controller.
  • control potential is generated from information generated by a sensor capturing a fraction of the brightness reflected on an illuminated object.
  • control potential is generated from information generated by an accelerometer-type sensor, thus allowing the control of long lighting when the user is running or jogging.
  • control potential is generated from information generated by an image sensor.
  • the portable lamp comprises communication means for receiving information from which is generated the control potential of the adjustable transparency.
  • This information can come either from another communicating lamp - configured in master mode - or from a data processing device such as a mobile phone, a tablet etc ... likely to control the features of the portable lamp.
  • the portable lamp is particularly suitable for producing a headlamp.
  • the lamp comprises a light source 31 generating a light beam generated for example by means of one or more LEDs (s).
  • the light source 31 may be provided with a primary optics for providing a first collimation so as to allow the formation of a rather narrow beam.
  • a secondary optics 32 may be provided to improve collimation of the source as necessary and thus increase, as necessary, the narrow geometry of the beam.
  • the lamp then comprises an electro-optical device 33 arranged in front of the light source, such as an electro-optical diffuser allowing a control electrical transparency / opacity, so as to control the geometry of the light beam generated by the LED (s).
  • an electro-optical device 33 arranged in front of the light source, such as an electro-optical diffuser allowing a control electrical transparency / opacity, so as to control the geometry of the light beam generated by the LED (s).
  • the electro-optical device 33 consists of a PDLC film (liquid crystals dispersed in dispersive liquid crystal polymers or polymers) which, as a person skilled in the art knows, consists of a particular embodiment of crystals. heterogeneously dispersed liquids within a polymer matrix.
  • PDLC film liquid crystals dispersed in dispersive liquid crystal polymers or polymers
  • This PDLC film can advantageously replace the glass usually disposed in front of the light source and protecting the latter, and comprises two polarization electrodes 34 and 35 for receiving a control signal, for example a control potential Vc generated by a control unit 36. .
  • the portable lamp can, therefore, provide new features (ambient light - lantern - dawn simulator alarm clock).
  • the invention thus solves very effectively a multitude of problems that arose in the development of an "electric zoom".
  • the potential Vc is controlled via a member or manual switch actuated by the user of the lamp which can thus come to adjust - as desired - the scattering angle of the beam.
  • the figure 4 illustrates a second embodiment of a lamp 100, supposedly frontal, combining the use of an electro-optical diffuser in a lamp type "dynamic".
  • the lamp 100 comprises a power module 450 associated with a control module 400 and a light source 460 comprising one or more LEDs (s) provided, where appropriate its own focal system (not shown).
  • the current supply of the LED diode 460 - via the conductors 461 - is carried out under the control of an information or a control signal 401 generated by the control module 200.
  • the power module 450 specifically includes all the components conventionally encountered in an LED lighting lamp for the production of a high intensity light beam, and in general based on PWM Pulse Width Modulation (FIG. or Pulse Width Modulation in the Anglo-Saxon literature), well known to a person skilled in the art and similar to that found in class D audio circuits.
  • This PWM modulation is controlled by means of the control signal 401.
  • the term "signal” mentioned above refers to an electrical quantity - current or voltage - which makes it possible to cause the control of the power module 450, and in particular the PWM modulation used to supply power to the LED diode 460.
  • control signal 401 any "control information", for example a logic information stored in a register and transmitted by any appropriate means to the power module 450 for the purpose of controlling the transmission power of the light beam.
  • control information for example a logic information stored in a register and transmitted by any appropriate means to the power module 450 for the purpose of controlling the transmission power of the light beam.
  • the two control modules 400 and power 450 are integrated within the same integrated circuit.
  • control signal 401 when referring to a "control signal 401", one indistinctly includes the embodiments using an electrical control quantity - current or voltage - as well as the embodiments in which the control is performed by means of logical information transmitted within the power module 450. For this reason, we will speak here below without distinction of signal or command information.
  • the switching components and circuits that make up the power module 450 - whether bipolar transistors, FET ( Field Effect Transistor ) or MOS ( Metal Oxide Semiconductor ) or MOSFET transistors - are well known. a person skilled in the art and the presentation will be deliberately lightened in this regard for the sake of brevity. In the same way, the reader will be invited to refer to the general works dealing with various aspects of PWM modulation.
  • control module 400 comprises in particular a sensor 410 with its own focal optics, intended to capture a portion of the light reflected on an illuminated object, so as to generate useful information for the implementation of said lighting "Dynamic” or "reactive".
  • This information produced by the sensor 410 is processed by the control module 400 so as to derive, by means of appropriate logic and analog circuits, a control potential Vc which is transmitted via conductors 471 appropriate to a PDLC film 470 so as to control the phenomenon of diffusion of the light beam passing through this film PDLC.
  • control of the diffusion is such that in the absence of control voltage Vc, the diffusion operated by the PDLC film 470 is maximum, thus producing light rays in all directions (represented by the beam 473 on the figure 4 ).
  • control module 400 when the control module 400 generates a significant potential Vc - of the order of 75 volts today but with the objective of lowering it under the value of 24 volts - the film PDLC will prove to be a transparency total or quasi-total, so that only a narrow beam 472 will be generated by the portable lamp.
  • FIG. figure 5 A sensor accelerometer 420 is added to, or simply substituted for, the sensor 410.
  • This accelerometer sensor is particularly useful for detecting a situation of large movements, for example when the wearer is running where it will be useful to control automatically, thanks to the The control unit 400 generates a narrower and longer beam.
  • the figure 6 shows another example of a more sophisticated embodiment in which the lamp comprises an image sensor 430 such as that described in the patent application WO 2012/119756 dated 6 March 2012 , and allowing the control of the beam geometry from an image analysis from an image processor 435 shown in FIG. figure 6 .
  • This image analysis leads, via an appropriate digital processing, to the generation of a suitable control potential Vc making it possible to pilot the diffusion of the PDLC film 470.
  • the reader will refer more particularly to the developments described in this patent application for the particular embodiment of a portable lamp with such a sensor.
  • the figure 7 shows another embodiment in which one adds, to the elements described in the embodiment of the figure 4 (and which keep for brevity the same reference numerals) a wireless communication unit 440, and in particular transmission / reception circuits for receiving a control information received from a device external to the lamp, said information serving to generate the control potential Vc of the electro-optical scattering device.
  • the communication circuits are of the Bluetooth type or equivalent and allow an exchange of information between two portable lamps so as to allow a master / slave type control between the two lamps.
  • the wireless communication circuits 440 are used to ensure data exchange between the portable lamp and an external data processing device, such as a mobile phone or a touch pad 500, which will thus be able to take advantage of all the processing power. available in these external devices, but also their communication features.
  • an external data processing device such as a mobile phone or a touch pad 500
  • This arrangement can be particularly advantageous since it will then become possible to use the large computing power available within these external equipment, and extended functionalities including communication, to come provide a fine and powerful adjustment of the geometry beam.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Crystallography & Structural Chemistry (AREA)
  • Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)
  • Circuit Arrangement For Electric Light Sources In General (AREA)

Description

Domaine technique de l'inventionTechnical field of the invention

La présente invention concerne le domaine des lampes électriques portatives et notamment une lampe portative frontale dotée d'une commande perfectionnée de gestion de la géométrie du faisceau lumineux.The present invention relates to the field of portable electric lamps and in particular a frontal portable lamp with an improved control of the management of the geometry of the light beam.

Etat de la techniqueState of the art

La demanderesse de la présente demande de brevet a contribué de manière significative au développement de nouvelles lampes portatives, améliorant le confort et l'éclairage de leurs utilisateurs dans toutes sortes de situations sportives (spéléologie, escalades, jogging, etc...) ou professionnelles (secours, élagage, mine etc...).The applicant of the present patent application has contributed significantly to the development of new portable lamps, improving the comfort and lighting of their users in all kinds of sporting situations (speleology, climbing, jogging, etc ...) or professional (rescue, pruning, mine etc ...).

Dans la demande de brevet FR2893811 déposée le 21 Novembre 2005 , elle a ainsi proposé une lampe électrique portative telle qu'illustrée dans la figure 1, comportant au moins deux sources de lumières ayant des faisceaux distincts - respectivement étroit/long et large/court - respectivement générés par une source lumineuse centrale 1d et une source lumineuse annulaire 1e qui, en combinant leur faisceaux au moyen d'une unique commande, permettent de générer un effet de « zoom ». Cet effet de « zoom » reste cependant assez relatif avec un variation limitée de l'angle du faisceau. Par ailleurs, cette réalisation requiert deux sources de lumière distinctes, ce qui peut accroître significativement le coût de fabrication mais surtout l'encombrement de la source lumineuse. Enfin, et cela n'était pas l'inconvénient le moins gênant, pour pouvoir disposer d'un flux lumineux bien homogène, il est nécessaire que les sources lumineuses soient bien appairées, ce qui peut s'avérer difficile et ce d'autant plus que, en général, les LED comportent des profils de vieillissement différents entraînant assez rapidement une perte d'homogénéité dans la production des flux lumineux respectifs des deux (ou plus) lampes LED, venant ainsi amoindrir l'efficacité du phénomène de « zoom » recherché.In the patent application FR2893811 filed on November 21, 2005 , she thus proposed a portable electric lamp as illustrated in the figure 1 , comprising at least two light sources having distinct beams - respectively narrow / long and wide / short - respectively generated by a central light source 1d and an annular light source 1e which, by combining their beams by means of a single command, generate a "zoom" effect. This "zoom" effect, however, remains rather relative with a limited variation of the beam angle. Furthermore, this embodiment requires two separate light sources, which can significantly increase the manufacturing cost but especially the size of the light source. Finally, and this was not the least inconvenient disadvantage, to be able to have a very homogeneous luminous flux, it is necessary that the light sources are well matched, which can be difficult and all the more that, in general, the LEDs have different aging profiles resulting in a fairly rapid loss homogeneity in the production of the respective luminous flux of the two (or more) LED lamps, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the phenomenon of "zoom" sought.

Apparaissent ainsi un certain nombre de problèmes techniques à résoudre.Thus appear a number of technical problems to solve.

Par ailleurs, un autre problème réside dans l'opportunité de pouvoir intégrer l'effet de zoom dans la technique de l'éclairage dit « dynamique » ou « réactif ». mis au point par la société demanderesse de la présente demande de brevet. En effet, dans la demande de brevet WO2009/133309 , celle-ci a introduit le concept de l'éclairage dit « réactif » ou « dynamique ». Brièvement, comme cela est illustrée dans la figure 2, il s'agit d'une lampe frontale comportant au moins une diode électroluminescente 11 de type LED ainsi qu'un capteur optique 14 logé dans son voisinage et destiné à capter un signal représentatif de la lumière réfléchie par la surface d'un objet 16 éclairé par la lampe. Un circuit de commande 13 assure un traitement de ce signal dans le but de réguler automatiquement la puissance de la LED en fonction d'un seuil prédéterminé. De cette manière, une régulation automatique du faisceau lumineux émis par la lampe est effectuée sans autre action manuelle afin d'adapter l'éclairage à l'environnement, tout en gérant la consommation en énergie.Moreover, another problem lies in the opportunity to integrate the zoom effect in the technique of lighting called "dynamic" or "reactive". developed by the applicant company of the present patent application. Indeed, in the patent application WO2009 / 133309 , it introduced the concept of lighting called "reactive" or "dynamic". Briefly, as illustrated in the figure 2 it is a headlamp comprising at least one light-emitting diode 11 of the LED type and an optical sensor 14 housed in its vicinity and intended to capture a signal representative of the light reflected by the surface of an object 16 illuminated by the lamp. A control circuit 13 provides a processing of this signal for the purpose of automatically regulating the power of the LED according to a predetermined threshold. In this way, automatic regulation of the light beam emitted by the lamp is performed without further manual action to adapt the lighting environment, while managing energy consumption.

Si le principe de cet éclairage « dynamique » constitue indéniablement une avancée significative dans le domaine des lampes frontales, et plus généralement de l'éclairage portatif, il reste cependant nécessaire de combiner cet éclairage avec un effet de zoom performant, permettant une adaptation efficace et flexible de l'éclairage de manière constante aux conditions d'éclairement.If the principle of this "dynamic" lighting is undeniably a significant advance in the field of headlamps, and more generally of portable lighting, it remains necessary to combine this lighting with a powerful zoom effect, allowing effective adaptation and flexible lighting consistently to lighting conditions.

Par ailleurs enfin, dans la demande de brevet internationale WO2012/119756 , la demanderesse a introduit une lampe frontale dotée d'un dispositif de faisceau à géométrie variable commandé par une analyse d'une image générée par un capteur d'image. Pour une telle lampe particulièrement sophistiquée, il apparaît également souhaitable de pouvoir disposer d'une solution de « zoom » ou de contrôle de la géométrie du faisceau lumineux qui soit particulièrement performante et flexible pour tirer grandement avantage des possibilités offertes par cette nouvelle technologie de lampe.Finally, finally, in the international patent application WO2012 / 119756 , the Applicant has introduced a headlamp with a variable geometry beam device controlled by an image analysis generated by an image sensor. For such a particularly sophisticated lamp, it also seems desirable to have a solution of "zoom" or control of the geometry of the light beam that is particularly powerful and flexible to take great advantage of the possibilities offered by this new lamp technology.

Comme on le voit, il reste souhaite de pouvoir disposer d'un mécanisme efficace et flexible de contrôle de la géométrie du faisceau qui permette une intégration harmonieuse et performante dans les toutes dernières technologies de lampe portative, et tout spécialement la lampe dite « dynamique ». En outre, il est souhaitable de proposer une solution efficace aux problèmes d'encombrement, de coût et celui du vieillissement des sources de lumière.As can be seen, it remains desirable to have an efficient and flexible beam geometry control mechanism that allows harmonious and efficient integration into the latest portable lamp technologies, especially the so-called "dynamic" lamp. . In addition, it is desirable to provide an effective solution to congestion problems, cost and aging of light sources.

La présente invention se propose d'améliorer significativement cette situation en proposant un nouveau dispositif de commande de la géométrie du faisceau parfaitement adapté à ces nouveaux besoins apparus avec les nouvelles fonctionnalités susceptibles d'apparaître dans les lampes frontales modernes.The present invention proposes to significantly improve this situation by proposing a new control device of the geometry of the beam perfectly adapted to these new needs appeared with the new functionalities likely to appear in the modern headlamps.

WO 2007/080543 (KONINKL PHILIPS ELCTRONICS NV) décrit un module de lampe comprenant au moins une diode LED pour l'émission de lumière, et des moyens pour extraire et mettre en forme la lumière générée par la LED, et une base pour la connexion à un dispositif lumineux. Le module comporte au moins une cellule commutable électriquement adaptée pour recevoir la lumière émise par la LED, laquelle cellule, dans un premier état, transmet la lumière entrante sans altération substantielle de la direction lumineuse et , dans un second état, altère la direction de la lumière lorsque la lumière traverse la cellule. WO 2007/080543 (KONINKL PHILIPS ELCTRONICS NV) discloses a lamp module comprising at least one LED for light emission, and means for extracting and shaping the light generated by the LED, and a base for connection to a light device . The module comprises at least one switchable cell electrically adapted to receive the light emitted by the LED, which cell, in a first state, transmits the incoming light without substantially altering the light direction and, in a second state, alters the direction of the light. light when the light passes through the cell.

US 2012/169953 (KATAOKA SHOEI et al ) décrit la disposition d'un panneau à cristaux liquides devant une LED pour commander la lumière générée par la LED et la qualité de la lumière distribuée. US 2012/169953 (KATAOKA SHOEI et al ) describes the arrangement of a liquid crystal panel in front of an LED to control the light generated by the LED and the quality of the light being distributed.

WO 2007/007234 (KONINKL PHILIPS ELECTRONICS NV) décrit un module lumineux produisant de la lumière avec un motif diffusant électriquement variable. WO 2007/007234 (KONINKL PHILIPS ELECTRONICS NV) describes a light module producing light with an electrically variable diffusing pattern.

Exposé de l'inventionPresentation of the invention

La présente invention a pour but de proposer une structure de lampe portative, telle que frontale, permettant une commande facilitée de la géométrie du faisceau lumineux.The object of the present invention is to propose a portable lamp structure, such as a frontal one, enabling easier control of the geometry of the light beam.

Un autre but de la présente invention consiste à proposer un dispositif de commande de la géométrie du faisceau d'une lampe portative, réduisant les coûts de fabrication mais aussi l'encombrement de la lampe.Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for controlling the geometry of the beam of a portable lamp, reducing the manufacturing costs but also the size of the lamp.

C'est un autre but de la présente invention que de fournir un dispositif de lampe portatif permettant un contrôle fin de la géométrie du faisceau et adapté à l'éclairage dynamique.It is another object of the present invention to provide a portable lamp device for fine control of the beam geometry and adapted for dynamic lighting.

L'invention réalise ces buts au moyen d'une lampe électrique portative, telle qu'une lampe frontale, comportant :

  • une source lumineuse générant au moins un faisceau lumineux générant un faisceau étroit, de préférence étroit;
  • une vitre disposée devant ladite source lumineuse, ladite vitre comportant un dispositif de diffusion électro-optique commandé par un signal électrique pour la production d'une diffusion électriquement réglable,
caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte en outre :
  • un capteur (410) adapté pour capter une fraction de la luminosité réfléchie sur un objet éclairé par ladite source lumineuse ;
  • un module de commande (400) couplé audit capteur et audit dispositif électro-optique, ledit module de commande (400) générant ledit signal électrique à partir de la luminosité réfléchie captée par ledit capteur.
The invention achieves these objects by means of a portable electric lamp, such as a headlamp, comprising:
  • a light source generating at least one light beam generating a narrow beam, preferably narrow;
  • a window arranged in front of said light source, said pane comprising an electro-optical diffusion device controlled by an electrical signal for the production of an electrically adjustable diffusion,
characterized in that it further comprises:
  • a sensor (410) adapted to capture a fraction of the reflected brightness on an object illuminated by said light source;
  • a control module (400) coupled to said sensor and said electro-optical device, said control module (400) generating said electrical signal from the reflected brightness picked up by said sensor.

Le dispositif électro-optique pourra être un diffuseur à cristaux liquides commandé soit par un courant, soit par un potentiel de commande.The electro-optical device may be a liquid crystal diffuser controlled either by a current or by a control potential.

Dans un mode de réalisation la vitre se compose d'un film PDLC au travers duquel traverse ledit faisceau étroit, ledit film PDLC comportant des électrodes de polarisation destinée à recevoir un potentiel de commande de la transparence dudit film.In one embodiment the pane consists of a PDLC film through which passes through said narrow beam, said PDLC film comprising polarization electrodes for receiving a control potential of the transparency of said film.

De préférence la lampe portative :

  • une source lumineuse comportant au moins une LED générant un faisceau étroit
  • une source d'alimentation destinée à l'alimentation électrique de la ou des LEDs ;
  • une unité de commande destinée à générer un potentiel de commande destiné à la commande de la transparence dudit film PDLC.
Preferably the portable lamp:
  • a light source comprising at least one LED generating a narrow beam
  • a power source for the power supply of the LED or LEDs;
  • a control unit for generating a control potential for controlling the transparency of said PDLC film.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, le potentiel de commande est généré à partir d'un organe de commande manuel.In a particular embodiment, the control potential is generated from a manual controller.

Alternativement, le potentiel de commande est généré à partir d'une information générée par un capteur captant une fraction de la luminosité réfléchie sur un objet éclairé.Alternatively, the control potential is generated from information generated by a sensor capturing a fraction of the brightness reflected on an illuminated object.

Alternativement, le potentiel de commande est généré à partir d'une information générée par un capteur de type accéléromètre , permettant ainsi la commande d'un éclairage long lorsque l'utilisateur fait de la course à pied ou du jogging.Alternatively, the control potential is generated from information generated by an accelerometer-type sensor, thus allowing the control of long lighting when the user is running or jogging.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, le potentiel de commande est généré à partir d'une information générée par un capteur d'image.In a particular embodiment, the control potential is generated from information generated by an image sensor.

Plus spécifiquement, la lampe portative comporte des moyens de communication permettant de recevoir une information à partir de laquelle est générée le potentiel de commande de la transparence réglable. Cette information peut provenir soit d'une autre lampe communicante - configurée en mode maître - soit d'un dispositif de traitement de donnée tel qu'un téléphone mobile, une tablette etc... susceptible de commander des fonctionnalités de la lampe portative.More specifically, the portable lamp comprises communication means for receiving information from which is generated the control potential of the adjustable transparency. This information can come either from another communicating lamp - configured in master mode - or from a data processing device such as a mobile phone, a tablet etc ... likely to control the features of the portable lamp.

Dans un mode de réalisation spécifique, la lampe portative est particulièrement adaptée à la réalisation d'une lampe frontale.In a specific embodiment, the portable lamp is particularly suitable for producing a headlamp.

Description des dessinsDescription of the drawings

D'autres caractéristiques, but et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description et des dessins ci-après, donnés uniquement à titre d'exemples non limitatifs. Sur les dessins annexés :

  • La figure 1 illustre le schéma de principe d'une lampe conventionnelle comportant un « zoom électrique ».
  • La figure 2 représente le schéma de principe d'une lampe conventionnelle comportant un « éclairage dynamique »
  • La figure 3 illustre un premier mode de réalisation préféré d'une lampe portative comportant un vitrage à transparence électriquement réglable.
  • La figure 4 illustre un second mode de réalisation combinant un diffuseur électro-optique avec une lampe à éclairage dynamique.
  • La figure 5 illustre un troisième mode de réalisation d'une lampe portative comportant un accéléromètre utilisé pour la génération du potentiel de commande du diffuseur électro-optique.
  • La figure 6 montre un quatrième exemple de réalisation d'une lampe portative comportant un capteur d'image et d'un processeur de traitement d'image permettant la génération d'une information de commande destinée à la génération du potentiel de commande du diffuseur électro-optique.
  • La figure 7 montre un cinquième mode de réalisation d'une lampe portative comportant des moyens de communication permettant de recevoir une information servant à la génération du potentiel de commande du diffuseur électro-optique.
Other characteristics, objects and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the description and the drawings below, given solely by way of non-limiting examples. In the accompanying drawings:
  • The figure 1 illustrates the block diagram of a conventional lamp with "electric zoom".
  • The figure 2 represents the schematic diagram of a conventional lamp with "dynamic lighting"
  • The figure 3 illustrates a first preferred embodiment of a portable lamp having an electrically adjustable transparency glazing.
  • The figure 4 illustrates a second embodiment combining an electro-optical diffuser with a dynamically illuminated lamp.
  • The figure 5 illustrates a third embodiment of a portable lamp comprising an accelerometer used for generating the control potential of the electro-optical diffuser.
  • The figure 6 shows a fourth embodiment of a portable lamp comprising an image sensor and an image processing processor for generating a control information for generating the control potential of the electro-optical diffuser.
  • The figure 7 shows a fifth embodiment of a portable lamp comprising communication means for receiving information for generating the control potential of the electro-optical diffuser.

Description des modes de réalisation préférésDescription of the preferred embodiments

On décrit à présent, en relation avec la figure 3 , un mode de réalisation particulier d'une lampe, telle qu'une lampe frontale générant un faisceau lumineux, et dotée d'un dispositif perfectionné de commande de la géométrie de ce faisceau lumineux.We now describe, in relation to the figure 3 , a particular embodiment of a lamp, such as a headlamp generating a light beam, and provided with an improved device for controlling the geometry of this light beam.

La lampe comporte une source lumineuse 31 générant un faisceau lumineux généré par exemple au moyen d'une ou plusieurs diodes LED(s). La source lumineuse 31 pourra être dotée d'une optique primaire destinée à assurer une première collimation de manière à permettre la formation d'un faisceau plutôt étroit.The lamp comprises a light source 31 generating a light beam generated for example by means of one or more LEDs (s). The light source 31 may be provided with a primary optics for providing a first collimation so as to allow the formation of a rather narrow beam.

Optionnellement, on pourra prévoir une optique secondaire 32 destinée à améliorer, en tant que de besoin, la collimation de la source et accroître ainsi, en tant que de besoin, la géométrie étroite du faisceau.Optionally, a secondary optics 32 may be provided to improve collimation of the source as necessary and thus increase, as necessary, the narrow geometry of the beam.

La lampe comporte ensuite un dispositif électro-optique 33 disposé devant la source lumineuse, tel qu'un diffuseur électro-optique permettant une commande électrique de la transparence/opacité, de manière à pouvoir commander la géométrie du faisceau lumineux généré par la ou les LED(s).The lamp then comprises an electro-optical device 33 arranged in front of the light source, such as an electro-optical diffuser allowing a control electrical transparency / opacity, so as to control the geometry of the light beam generated by the LED (s).

De préférence le dispositif électro-optique 33 est constitué d'un film PDLC (Cristaux liquides dispersés dans des polymères ou polymère à cristaux liquides dispersif) qui, comme un homme du métier le sait, est constitué d'une mise en oeuvre particulière de cristaux liquides par dispersion hétérogène au sein d'une matrice polymère.Preferably, the electro-optical device 33 consists of a PDLC film (liquid crystals dispersed in dispersive liquid crystal polymers or polymers) which, as a person skilled in the art knows, consists of a particular embodiment of crystals. heterogeneously dispersed liquids within a polymer matrix.

Ce film PDLC peut remplacer avantageusement la vitre disposée habituellement devant la source lumineuse et protégeant celle dernière, et comporte deux électrodes 34 et 35 de polarisation destinées à recevoir un signal de commande, par exemple un potentiel de commande Vc généré par une unité de commande 36.This PDLC film can advantageously replace the glass usually disposed in front of the light source and protecting the latter, and comprises two polarization electrodes 34 and 35 for receiving a control signal, for example a control potential Vc generated by a control unit 36. .

On obtient ainsi une combinaison avantageuse d'une source lumineuse spécifiquement étroite et d'un diffuseur électro-optique PDLC que l'on peut venir commander électriquement de manière à générer diverses géométries de faisceaux lumineux, depuis le faisceau le plus étroit (lorsque le film PDLC est parfaitement transparent) jusqu'à une diffusion maximum assurant une diffusion de la lumière dans toutes les directions, comme cela est illustré dans la figure 3.An advantageous combination of a specifically narrow light source and an electro-optical diffuser PDLC is thus obtained which can be electrically controlled so as to generate various light beam geometries from the narrowest beam (when the film PDLC is perfectly transparent) to a maximum diffusion ensuring diffusion of light in all directions, as illustrated in FIG. figure 3 .

Grâce à cette disposition particulièrement avantageuse, l'on peut ainsi générer, au moyen d'une unique source lumineuse à faisceau étroite, par exemple inférieure à 10 degrés, une grande variété d'angles ou d'ouvertures de faisceau. La lampe portative peut, dès lors, assurer de nouvelles fonctionnalités (lumière d'ambiance - lanterne - réveil simulateur d'aube).Thanks to this particularly advantageous arrangement, it is thus possible to generate, by means of a single light source with a narrow beam, for example less than 10 degrees, a wide variety of angles or beam openings. The portable lamp can, therefore, provide new features (ambient light - lantern - dawn simulator alarm clock).

Et ces nouvelles fonctionnalités seront permises tout en en réduisant considérablement l'encombrement de la lampe puisque, dans le meilleur des cas, une seule LED sera nécessaire pour produire une grande variété de faisceaux lumineux.And these new features will be allowed while greatly reducing the size of the lamp since, in the best case, a single LED will be necessary to produce a wide variety of light beams.

Par ailleurs, le problème de l'appariement des LED et de leurs profils de vieillissement ne se pose plus puisqu'une seule LED pourra permettre de générer une multitude de faisceaux qui présenteront toujours une couleur bien homogène.Moreover, the problem of the pairing of LEDs and their aging profiles no longer arises since a single LED will make it possible to generate a multitude of beams that will always have a homogeneous color.

L'invention résout ainsi de manière très efficace une multitude de problèmes qui se posaient dans l'élaboration d'un « zoom électrique ».The invention thus solves very effectively a multitude of problems that arose in the development of an "electric zoom".

L'on a en outre relevé un avantage de type esthétique car, en l'absence de potentiel de commande Vc, la lampe éteinte se trouve totalement grainée et présente, de ce fait, un aspect esthétique remarquable.It has also been noted an aesthetic advantage because, in the absence of control potential Vc, the extinguished lamp is completely grained and thus has a remarkable aesthetic appearance.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulièrement simple, le potentiel Vc est commandé via un organe ou commutateur manuel actionné par l'utilisateur de la lampe qui peut ainsi venir régler - à souhait - l'angle de diffusion du faisceau.In a particularly simple embodiment, the potential Vc is controlled via a member or manual switch actuated by the user of the lamp which can thus come to adjust - as desired - the scattering angle of the beam.

Alternativement - et cela montre la grande flexibilité du dispositif qui est décrit - l'on pourra venir régler automatiquement le potentiel Vc à partir de diverses informations.Alternatively - and this shows the great flexibility of the device that is described - we can come to automatically adjust the potential Vc from various information.

La figure 4 illustre un second mode de réalisation d'une lampe 100 , supposée frontale, venant combiner l'utilisation d'un diffuseur électro-optique au sein d'une lampe de type « dynamique ».The figure 4 illustrates a second embodiment of a lamp 100, supposedly frontal, combining the use of an electro-optical diffuser in a lamp type "dynamic".

La lampe 100 comporte un module de puissance 450 associé à un module de commande 400 et une source lumineuse 460 comportant une ou plusieurs diodes LED(s) dotées, le cas échéant de son système focal propre (non représenté).The lamp 100 comprises a power module 450 associated with a control module 400 and a light source 460 comprising one or more LEDs (s) provided, where appropriate its own focal system (not shown).

Dans l'exemple de la figure 4, l'on a représenté, dans un souci de simplification, une unique diode LED 460 alimentée par ses conducteurs 461 connectés au module de puissance 450 qui représente clairement le mode de réalisation le plus compact.In the example of the figure 4 , for the sake of simplicity, there is shown a single LED diode 460 powered by its conductors 461 connected to the power module 450 which clearly represents the most compact embodiment.

En revanche, lorsque la compacité n'est pas recherchée au premier plan, on pourra, notamment pour accroître la luminosité de la lampe, prévoir plusieurs diodes au sein d'un même système optique focal, voire même multiplier le nombre de systèmes optiques afin d'accroître les possibilités d'utilisation de la lampe. En particulier, on pourra envisager l'utilisation de LED plus imposantes de type multi-chips (Cree XLM2) combinée à des optiques plus imposantes, permettant une réalisation plus sophistiquée.On the other hand, when the compactness is not sought in the foreground, it will be possible, in particular to increase the brightness of the lamp, to provide several diodes within the same focal optical system, or even to multiply the number of optical systems to increase the possibilities of use of the lamp. In particular, we can consider the use of larger LEDs of multi-chip type (Cree XLM2) combined with larger optics, allowing a more sophisticated realization.

Dans un mode de réalisation spécifique, l'alimentation en courant de la diode LED 460 - via les conducteurs 461 - est effectué sous la commande d'une information ou d'un signal de commande 401 généré par le module de commande 200.In a specific embodiment, the current supply of the LED diode 460 - via the conductors 461 - is carried out under the control of an information or a control signal 401 generated by the control module 200.

Le module de puissance 450 comporte spécifiquement tous les composants que l'on rencontre conventionnellement dans une lampe d'éclairage à LEDs pour la production d'un faisceau lumineux de forte intensité, et en général basée sur la Modulation en Largeur d'Impulsion MLI (ou Pulse Width Modulation dans la littérature anglo-saxonne), bien connue d'un homme du métier et similaire à celle que l'on rencontre dans les circuits audio de classe D. Cette modulation MLI est commandée au moyen du signal de commande 401. En général, l'on notera que le terme « signal » mentionné précédemment renvoie à une grandeur électrique - courant ou tension - qui permet de provoquer la commande du module de puissance 450, et notamment la modulation MLI servant à alimenter en courant la diode LED 460. Il ne s'agit ici que d'un mode particulier de réalisation, étant entendu qu'il sera possible de substituer au « signal de commande 401 » toute « information de commande » , par exemple une information logique stockée dans un registre et transmise par tout moyen approprié au module de puissance 450 dans le but de commander la puissance d'émission du faisceau lumineux. Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, l'on pourra même envisager que les deux modules de commande 400 et de puissance 450 soient intégrés au sein d'un même circuit intégré.The power module 450 specifically includes all the components conventionally encountered in an LED lighting lamp for the production of a high intensity light beam, and in general based on PWM Pulse Width Modulation (FIG. or Pulse Width Modulation in the Anglo-Saxon literature), well known to a person skilled in the art and similar to that found in class D audio circuits. This PWM modulation is controlled by means of the control signal 401. In general, it will be noted that the term "signal" mentioned above refers to an electrical quantity - current or voltage - which makes it possible to cause the control of the power module 450, and in particular the PWM modulation used to supply power to the LED diode 460. This is only a particular embodiment, it being understood that it will be possible to substitute for the "control signal 401" any "control information", for example a logic information stored in a register and transmitted by any appropriate means to the power module 450 for the purpose of controlling the transmission power of the light beam. In a particular embodiment, it can even be envisaged that the two control modules 400 and power 450 are integrated within the same integrated circuit.

Un homme du métier comprendra donc aisément que lorsque l'on se réfère à un « signal de commande 401 » , l'on englobe indistinctement les réalisations recourant à une grandeur électrique de commande - courant ou tension - ainsi que les réalisations dans lesquelles la commande est effectuée au moyen d'une information logique transmise au sein du module de puissance 450. Pour cette raison, l'on parlera ci-après indistinctement de signal ou d'information de commande.A person skilled in the art will therefore readily understand that when referring to a "control signal 401", one indistinctly includes the embodiments using an electrical control quantity - current or voltage - as well as the embodiments in which the control is performed by means of logical information transmitted within the power module 450. For this reason, we will speak here below without distinction of signal or command information.

D'une manière générale, les composants commutateurs et circuits qui constituent le module de puissance 450 - qu'il s'agisse de transistors bipolaires, transistors FET (Field Effect Transistor) ou MOS (Metal Oxyde Semiconductor) ou MOSFET - sont bien connus d'un homme du métier et l'exposé sera délibérément allégé à cet égard par souci de concision. De même, l'on invitera le lecteur à se renvoyer aux ouvrages généraux traitant des divers aspect de la modulation MLI.In general, the switching components and circuits that make up the power module 450 - whether bipolar transistors, FET ( Field Effect Transistor ) or MOS ( Metal Oxide Semiconductor ) or MOSFET transistors - are well known. a person skilled in the art and the presentation will be deliberately lightened in this regard for the sake of brevity. In the same way, the reader will be invited to refer to the general works dealing with various aspects of PWM modulation.

On voit dans la figure 4 que le module de commande 400 comporte en particulier un capteur 410 doté de son optique focale propre, destiné à capter une partie de la lumière réfléchie sur un objet éclairé, de manière à générer une information utile pour la mise en oeuvre de l'éclairage dit « dynamique » ou « réactif ».We see in the figure 4 that the control module 400 comprises in particular a sensor 410 with its own focal optics, intended to capture a portion of the light reflected on an illuminated object, so as to generate useful information for the implementation of said lighting "Dynamic" or "reactive".

Cette information produite par le capteur 410 est traitée par le module de commande 400 de manière à dériver au moyen de circuits logiques et analogiques adéquats un potentiel de commande Vc qui est transmis via des conducteurs 471 appropriés à un film PDLC 470 de manière à contrôler le phénomène de diffusion du faisceau lumineux transitant par ce film PDLC.This information produced by the sensor 410 is processed by the control module 400 so as to derive, by means of appropriate logic and analog circuits, a control potential Vc which is transmitted via conductors 471 appropriate to a PDLC film 470 so as to control the phenomenon of diffusion of the light beam passing through this film PDLC.

Plus spécifiquement, la commande de la diffusion est telle qu'en l'absence de tension de commande Vc, la diffusion opérée par le film PDLC 470 est maximale, produisant ainsi des rayons lumineux dans toutes les directions (représenté par le faisceau 473 sur la figure 4). Au contraire, lorsque le module de commande 400 génère un potentiel Vc important - de l'ordre de 75 volts aujourd'hui mais avec l'objectif de le baisser sous la valeur de 24 volts - le film PDLC se révèlera être d'une transparence totale ou quasitotale, en sorte que seul un faisceau étroit 472 sera généré par la lampe portative.More specifically, the control of the diffusion is such that in the absence of control voltage Vc, the diffusion operated by the PDLC film 470 is maximum, thus producing light rays in all directions (represented by the beam 473 on the figure 4 ). On the contrary, when the control module 400 generates a significant potential Vc - of the order of 75 volts today but with the objective of lowering it under the value of 24 volts - the film PDLC will prove to be a transparency total or quasi-total, so that only a narrow beam 472 will be generated by the portable lamp.

Avec un tel dispositif, l'on peut ainsi venir commander automatiquement le coefficient de diffusion du film PDLC via le potentiel de commande Vc à partir de la réflexion de la lumière sur un objet éclairé captée par le capteur 410.With such a device, it is thus possible to automatically control the diffusion coefficient of the film PDLC via the control potential Vc from the reflection of light on an illuminated object picked up by the sensor 410.

L'on améliore ainsi significativement la lampe « dynamique » ou « réactive » connue en intégrant ainsi un film PDLC électriquement commandable. Plus spécifiquement, la possibilité d'une commande électrique du diffuseur électro-optique permet de simplifier grandement la boucle de rétroaction permettant la commande de diffusion en fonction de la lumière captée par le capteur 410.This significantly improves the known "dynamic" or "reactive" lamp by integrating an electrically controllable PDLC film. More specifically, the possibility of electrical control of the electro-optical diffuser greatly simplifies the feedback loop enabling the diffusion control as a function of the light picked up by the sensor 410.

Ce qui rend ainsi la lampe 100 de la figure 4 particulièrement flexible à un grand nombre de boucles d'asservissement qui sont dès lors possibles.What makes the lamp 100 of the figure 4 particularly flexible to a large number of servo loops which are therefore possible.

Mais cela n'épuise certainement pas les possibilités de l'invention qui peut permettre une grande variété de commande différentes, comme on le voit encore avec le dispositif illustré dans la figure 5 , dans lequel tous les composants identiques à ceux de la figure 4 conservent leur références. Dans ce dispositif de la figure 5, on vient ajouter - ou simplement substituer - au capteur 410 un capteur accélérométrique 420. Ce capteur accélérométrique se révèle particulièrement utile pour détecter une situation de mouvements importants, par exemple lorsque le porteur court où il pourra être utile de commander automatiquement, grâce à l'unité de commande 400 la génération d'un faisceau plus étroit et plus long.But this certainly does not exhaust the possibilities of the invention which can allow a wide variety of different commands, as can be seen again with the device illustrated in FIG. figure 5 , in which all the components identical to those of the figure 4 retain their references. In this device the figure 5 A sensor accelerometer 420 is added to, or simply substituted for, the sensor 410. This accelerometer sensor is particularly useful for detecting a situation of large movements, for example when the wearer is running where it will be useful to control automatically, thanks to the The control unit 400 generates a narrower and longer beam.

La figure 6 montre un autre exemple de réalisation plus sophistiquée dans lequel la lampe comporte un capteur d'image 430 tel que celui décrit dans la demande de brevet WO 2012/119756 en date du 6 Mars 2012 , et permettant la commande de la géométrie du faisceau à partir d'une analyse d'image provenant d'un processeur d'images 435 représenté dans la figure 6. Cette analyse d'images conduit, via un traitement numérique approprié , à la génération d'un potentiel de commande Vc adéquat permettant de venir piloter la diffusion du film PDLC 470. Le lecteur se reportera plus particulièrement aux développements décrits dans cette demande de brevet pour la réalisation particulière d'un lampe portative dotée d'un tel capteur.The figure 6 shows another example of a more sophisticated embodiment in which the lamp comprises an image sensor 430 such as that described in the patent application WO 2012/119756 dated 6 March 2012 , and allowing the control of the beam geometry from an image analysis from an image processor 435 shown in FIG. figure 6 . This image analysis leads, via an appropriate digital processing, to the generation of a suitable control potential Vc making it possible to pilot the diffusion of the PDLC film 470. The reader will refer more particularly to the developments described in this patent application for the particular embodiment of a portable lamp with such a sensor.

La figure 7 montre un autre mode de réalisation dans lequel on vient ajouter, aux éléments décrits dans le mode de réalisation de la figure 4 (et qui conservent par souci de concision les mêmes références numériques) une unité de communication sans fil 440, et notamment des circuits d'émission/réception pour la réception d'une information de commande reçue d'un dispositif extérieur à la lampe, ladite information servant à la génération du potentiel de commande Vc du dispositif de diffusion électro-optique.The figure 7 shows another embodiment in which one adds, to the elements described in the embodiment of the figure 4 (and which keep for brevity the same reference numerals) a wireless communication unit 440, and in particular transmission / reception circuits for receiving a control information received from a device external to the lamp, said information serving to generate the control potential Vc of the electro-optical scattering device.

Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, les circuits de communication sont de type Bluetooth ou équivalents et permettent un échange d'information entre deux lampes portatives de manière à permettre un contrôle de type maître/esclave entre les deux lampes.In a particular embodiment, the communication circuits are of the Bluetooth type or equivalent and allow an exchange of information between two portable lamps so as to allow a master / slave type control between the two lamps.

L'on parvient ainsi, grâce à cette disposition une commande centralisée de la diffusion du film PDLC .Thus, thanks to this arrangement, a centralized control of the diffusion of the PDLC film is achieved.

Alternativement, les circuits de communication sans fil 440 sont utilisés pour assurer un échange de données entre la lampe portative et un dispositif externe de traitement de données, tel un téléphone mobile ou une tablette tactile 500 qui pourront ainsi tirer avantage de toute la puissance de traitement disponible dans ces dispositifs externes, mais également leur fonctionnalités de communication. Afin de venir piloter la commande de la luminosité du faisceau mais également sa géométrie au moyen du film PDLC 470.Alternatively, the wireless communication circuits 440 are used to ensure data exchange between the portable lamp and an external data processing device, such as a mobile phone or a touch pad 500, which will thus be able to take advantage of all the processing power. available in these external devices, but also their communication features. In order to pilot the control of the brightness of the beam but also its geometry by means of the film PDLC 470.

Cette disposition peut se révéler particulièrement avantageuse puisqu'il deviendra alors possible d'utiliser la grande puissance de calcul disponible au sein de ces équipements externes, et des fonctionnalités étendues notamment en matière de communication, pour venir apporter une réglage fin et performant de la géométrie du faisceau.This arrangement can be particularly advantageous since it will then become possible to use the large computing power available within these external equipment, and extended functionalities including communication, to come provide a fine and powerful adjustment of the geometry beam.

Avec une telle possibilité de communication, une multitude de nouvelles fonctionnalités sont dès lors permises à la lampe frontale.With such a communication possibility, a multitude of new features are therefore allowed to the headlamp.

Claims (11)

  1. A portable electric lamp comprising:
    - a light source generating at least one light beam, preferably narrow;
    - a glass sheet disposed in front of said light source, said glass sheet comprising an electro-optical device driven by an electric signal for producing an electrically adjustable diffusion,
    characterized in that it further includes:
    - a sensor (410) configured for sensing part of the light being reflected on an object which is lighted by said light source;
    - a control unit (400) coupled to said sensor and said electro-optical device, wherein said control unit (400) generates said electric signal from the reflected light being sensed by said sensor.
  2. The portable lamp according to claim 1 characterized in that said electro-optical device is a diffusion polymer liquid crystal being controlled by a current.
  3. The portable lamp according to claim 1 characterized in that said electro-optical device is a diffusion polymer liquid crystal controlled by a voltage.
  4. The portable lamp according to claim 3 characterized in that said glass sheet consists of a PDLC film through which passes through said narrow beam, wherein said DPLC film comprises biasing terminals configured for receiving a control voltage for controlling the transparency of said DPLC film.
  5. The portable lamp according to claim 4 characterized in that it includes:
    - said light source comprising at least one LED generating a narrow beam
    - a power source for the power supply of the at least one LED;
    - a control unit for generating a control voltage for controlling the transparency of said DPLC film.
  6. The portable lamp according to claim 5 characterized in that said control voltage is generated from an information which is generated by an accelerometer sensor.
  7. The portable lamp according to claim 5 characterized in that said control voltage is generated from an information generated by an image sensor.
  8. The portable lamp according to claim 5 characterized in that said lamp comprises communication means and said control voltage is generated from an information received via said communication means.
  9. The portable lamp according to claim 8 characterized in that said control voltage is generated from an information received from another lamp being configured in master mode lamp and communicating with said portable lamp.
  10. The portable lamp according to claim 9 characterized in that said control voltage is generated from an information generated by a smartphone/tablet type device communicating via a wireless communication channel.
  11. The portable lamp according to claim 1 to 10 characterized in that it consists of a headlamp having one single LED generating a narrow beam of less than 10 degrees, which can be transformed into a scattering light by means of said control signal.
EP15707057.4A 2014-02-14 2015-02-13 Portable lamp comprising a device for electrically controlling the geometry of the electric beam Not-in-force EP3105498B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1400407A FR3017692A1 (en) 2014-02-14 2014-02-14 PORTABLE LAMP COMPRISING A DEVICE FOR ELECTRICALLY CONTROLLING THE GEOMETRY OF THE ELECTRICAL BEAM
PCT/EP2015/053127 WO2015121429A1 (en) 2014-02-14 2015-02-13 Portable lamp comprising a device for electrically controlling the geometry of the electric beam

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3105498A1 EP3105498A1 (en) 2016-12-21
EP3105498B1 true EP3105498B1 (en) 2018-12-26

Family

ID=51063490

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP15707057.4A Not-in-force EP3105498B1 (en) 2014-02-14 2015-02-13 Portable lamp comprising a device for electrically controlling the geometry of the electric beam

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US20160258599A1 (en)
EP (1) EP3105498B1 (en)
FR (1) FR3017692A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2015121429A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4124177A1 (en) 2021-07-20 2023-01-25 Reichhardt GmbH Steuerungstechnik Indoor or outdoor lighting system

Families Citing this family (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9665825B2 (en) 2014-06-09 2017-05-30 Cognitive Scale, Inc. System for refining cognitive insights using cognitive graph vectors
EP3298431A1 (en) * 2015-05-18 2018-03-28 Lasermotive Inc. Light curtain safety system
FR3041498A1 (en) * 2015-09-21 2017-03-24 Zedel LED LAMP WITH BRIGHTNESS CONTROL DEVICE
EP3510442B1 (en) * 2016-09-08 2023-11-22 LensVector Inc. Liquid crystal dynamic beam control device
TWI769181B (en) * 2016-11-18 2022-07-01 美商聯思維公司 Liquid crystal dynamic beam control device and manufacture
EP3330608B1 (en) * 2016-12-05 2021-03-31 The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd Connected lamp and method for controlling the lamp
FR3064101B1 (en) * 2017-03-17 2019-11-01 Eydi Technology DEVICE FOR TRANSMITTING A LIGHT ALERT, ASSOCIATED ALERT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
US10942423B1 (en) * 2017-06-16 2021-03-09 Apple Inc. Light source module with adjustable focus
EP3826432A1 (en) 2019-11-22 2021-05-26 Oberalp Spa Headlamp with an ai unit
EP4064792A1 (en) 2021-03-25 2022-09-28 Zedel Headlight provided with improved dynamic lighting
US11350506B1 (en) 2021-05-03 2022-05-31 Ober Alp S.P.A. Adaptive illumination control via activity classification

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ATE411199T1 (en) * 2003-02-21 2008-10-15 Gentex Corp AUTOMATIC VEHICLE EXTERIOR LIGHT MONITORING SYSTEM DESIGNS
WO2007007234A1 (en) * 2005-07-08 2007-01-18 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. A light module for producing light with a scattering pattern that is electrically variable and use thereof as multiple purpose light
WO2007080543A1 (en) * 2006-01-16 2007-07-19 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Lamp module and lighting device comprising such a lamp module
DE102007036697A1 (en) * 2007-08-03 2009-02-05 Lear Corp., Southfield Optical scattering of a light beam
KR101381248B1 (en) * 2009-09-11 2014-04-04 테루유키 카타오카 Led lighting device
JP6514894B2 (en) * 2011-11-23 2019-05-15 クォークスター・エルエルシー Light emitting device for propagating light asymmetrically
KR101520709B1 (en) * 2012-05-07 2015-05-15 엘지전자 주식회사 Lighting apparatus and Method of controlling a lighting apparatus
US9170474B2 (en) * 2012-06-21 2015-10-27 Qualcomm Mems Technologies, Inc. Efficient spatially modulated illumination system

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP4124177A1 (en) 2021-07-20 2023-01-25 Reichhardt GmbH Steuerungstechnik Indoor or outdoor lighting system
DE102021118773A1 (en) 2021-07-20 2023-01-26 Reichhardt Gmbh Steuerungstechnik Lighting system with multiple lights

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2015121429A1 (en) 2015-08-20
FR3017692A1 (en) 2015-08-21
US20160258599A1 (en) 2016-09-08
EP3105498A1 (en) 2016-12-21

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3105498B1 (en) Portable lamp comprising a device for electrically controlling the geometry of the electric beam
EP3145280B1 (en) Led lamp provided with a brightness control device
FR3017691B1 (en) PORTABLE ELECTRIC LAMP WITH WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
EP2706824B1 (en) Portable electric lamp provided with an anti-glare system
EP2706823B1 (en) Portable electric lamp provided with a device for automatically adjusting the illumination
EP2684426B1 (en) Led lamp provided with a variable-geometry beam device
US20220046162A1 (en) Adaptive light source
EP2695490B1 (en) Programmable led lighting device and method
FR2749965A1 (en) WIDE RANGE DOUBLE LEVEL REAR LIGHT DISPLAY
EP1952676A1 (en) Electronic zoom portable electric lamp
EP3739873A1 (en) System and method for measuring ambient light
US10013925B2 (en) Display device, light converting device and display system
EP2504932A1 (en) Led lighting unit having improved control
WO2018007385A1 (en) Light device with a light source having a lighting area and a communication area
WO2021014055A1 (en) Communicating backlighting device for a screen and electronic system comprising a screen backlit by such a device
FR3077619A1 (en) LIGHTING PANEL FOR LIGHT COMMUNICATION
FR3007236A1 (en) MULTI-MODE LIGHTING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USING SAME
EP1494489A1 (en) Radio communications device comprising at least one light source controlled by a digital signal
FR3022098A1 (en) DEVICE FOR DISPLAYING LUMINOUS ANIMATIONS BY LED MATRIX
FR2919457A1 (en) Switching power supply device for powering and controlling LEDs in e.g. street lighting, has adjustment channels adjusting different current by colors of LEDs, where one of channels is adjusted to nominal current
EP3357753A1 (en) Driving assistance method and system

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20160913

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20180704

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1081897

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20190115

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602015022222

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190326

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190326

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20181226

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190327

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1081897

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20181226

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190426

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190426

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602015022222

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190213

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20190228

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20190326

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20190927

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190228

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190228

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190903

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190213

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190326

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190226

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190228

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20150213

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181226