EP3699487B1 - Motor vehicle headlight module with variable focal length - Google Patents

Motor vehicle headlight module with variable focal length Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3699487B1
EP3699487B1 EP20155528.1A EP20155528A EP3699487B1 EP 3699487 B1 EP3699487 B1 EP 3699487B1 EP 20155528 A EP20155528 A EP 20155528A EP 3699487 B1 EP3699487 B1 EP 3699487B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
lens
motor vehicle
vehicle headlight
light module
headlight 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.)
Active
Application number
EP20155528.1A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3699487A1 (en
Inventor
Felix Maier
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.)
Marelli Automotive Lighting Reutlingen Germany GmbH
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Marelli Automotive Lighting Reutlingen Germany GmbH
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Publication of EP3699487A1 publication Critical patent/EP3699487A1/en
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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
    • F21S41/10—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by the light source
    • F21S41/14—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by the light source characterised by the type of light source
    • F21S41/141—Light emitting diodes [LED]
    • F21S41/147—Light emitting diodes [LED] the main emission direction of the LED being angled to the optical axis of the illuminating device
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
    • F21S41/10—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by the light source
    • F21S41/19—Attachment of light sources or lamp holders
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
    • F21S41/20—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S41/25—Projection lenses
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
    • F21S41/20—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters
    • F21S41/285—Refractors, transparent cover plates, light guides or filters not provided in groups F21S41/24 - F21S41/2805
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
    • F21S41/30—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by reflectors
    • F21S41/32—Optical layout thereof
    • F21S41/36—Combinations of two or more separate reflectors
    • F21S41/365—Combinations of two or more separate reflectors successively reflecting the light
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
    • F21S41/60—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by a variable light distribution
    • F21S41/63—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by a variable light distribution by acting on refractors, filters or transparent cover plates
    • F21S41/635—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by a variable light distribution by acting on refractors, filters or transparent cover plates by moving refractors, filters or transparent cover plates
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
    • F21S41/60—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by a variable light distribution
    • F21S41/67—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by a variable light distribution by acting on reflectors
    • F21S41/675—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by a variable light distribution by acting on reflectors by moving reflectors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a motor vehicle headlight light module according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such a light module is from DE 10 2014 213 636 A1 known.
  • one from the DE 10 2017 203 573 A1 known light module has means for generating an internal light distribution and projection optics.
  • the projection optics have a first lens and a second lens and are set up to emit the inner light distribution as the outer light distribution of the headlight.
  • the projection optics has a variable focal length and an actuator means configured to adjust the focal length, the actuator means being configured to change a position of at least one of the two lenses relative to the other of the two lenses.
  • a light module with a liquid-filled lens is known, its shape and thus Refractive power can be varied, for example, by pressure.
  • From the DE 10 2016 108 675 A1 and from the DE 10 2011 087 306 A1 dustproof light modules are known.
  • a well-known light module is a high-beam module with an adjustable headlight range that can be used outside of the high-beam mode to project information onto the road ahead of the motor vehicle.
  • the emission direction of the light module is pivoted downwards and the focal length of the light module is reduced by shifting at least one lens of the light module so that the information is sharply imaged onto the road.
  • the information is an image of an internal light distribution or directional distribution of light rays reflected by a DMD chip (DMD: Digital Mirror Device).
  • DMD Digital Mirror Device
  • Such a DMD chip has a very large number (order of magnitude: 1 million) of micromirrors, the mirror position of which can be controlled individually and can be switched between two positions individually for each mirror.
  • the DMD chip which has a total mirror area on the order of less than 10 square centimeters, is illuminated by a light source. Depending on the position of the mirrors, the light that is incident and reflected on the respective mirror is reflected to the projection optics or to other locations. The light reflected to the projection optics is projected onto the roadway and forms the pattern of the positions of the micromirrors. The remaining light is reflected onto an absorber, for example.
  • the reflecting surface of a single micromirror is very small.
  • contamination which can be caused by dust, for example, disturbs the image of the mirror, which is noticeable in the form of dark spots and areas that appear washed out in the external light distribution.
  • the displacement used which takes place transversely to the optical axis of the lenses, can be integrated more easily into a dust-tight housing than that which takes place along the optical axis, which is known from the prior art Shift.
  • a preferred configuration is characterized in that the projection optics are set up to change a distance of a sharp image of the internal light distribution from the motor vehicle headlight by moving it.
  • the projection optics has a first end position of the displacement and a second end position of the displacement.
  • the projection optics is set up to sharply image the inner light distribution in the first end position at a distance from the headlight that is between 10 m and 15 m.
  • Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the projection optics are set up to sharply image the inner light distribution in the second end position at a distance from the headlight that is between 3 m and 8 m.
  • the motor vehicle headlight device is set up to adjust the position with an electric motor that drives a threaded drive that has a drive side coupled to the electric motor and an output side coupled to one of the two lenses.
  • the light module has a dustproof housing, and the two lenses are arranged in the dustproof housing.
  • a further preferred configuration is characterized in that the first lens and the second lens are separated from one another by an air gap.
  • the first lens has a first outer surface facing the inner light distribution to be imaged and a first inner surface facing the air gap.
  • the first outer surface is a flat surface.
  • a further preferred configuration is characterized in that the first outer surface is concavely and/or convexly curved.
  • the second lens has a second inner surface facing the air gap and a second outer surface facing the projection lens.
  • the second outer surface is a flat surface.
  • the second outer surface is concave and/or convex.
  • the figure 1 a motor vehicle headlight 10 which is set up to to illuminate an area 12 located in front of the motor vehicle headlight 10 through a transparent cover plate 14 of the motor vehicle headlight 10 with an external light distribution.
  • the external light distribution results, for example, as a bright area on a roadway or on a screen projecting from the motor vehicle headlight 10 .
  • the motor vehicle headlight 10 has a light module 16 .
  • the light module 16 has means 18 for generating an internal light distribution localized within the light module 16 .
  • the light module 16 has projection optics 20, which are set up to sharply image the inner light distribution as the outer light distribution at an imaging distance 22 (focus distance) of several meters from the light module 16 in the area 12 located in front of the motor vehicle headlight 10.
  • the projection optics 20 has a projection lens 48, a first lens 42.1, a second lens 42.2 and actuator means 24 in the illustrated embodiment.
  • the projection optics 20 are set up to emit the inner light distribution as the outer light distribution of the headlight 10 .
  • the projection optics 20 have a variable focal length.
  • the actuator means 24 is adapted to a position of at least one of the two lenses 42.1, 42.2 to change to the other of the two lenses 42.2, 42.1.
  • the actuator means 24 is set up to change the position by moving the first lens 42.1 against the second lens 42.2 and/or the second lens 42.2 against the first lens 42.1 transversely to an optical axis 44 of the projection optics 20.
  • the actuator means 24 is, for example, an electric motor 24.1, for example a stepper motor, which is attached at a first end to a housing 16.1 of the light module 16 and which is connected at a second end via a threaded drive 24.2 to the first lens 42.1 and/or the second lens 42.2 is.
  • the stepping motor rotates a nut on a threaded rod connected to that of the first lens 42.1 or to the second lens 42.2 such that rotation of the nut moves the coupled lens transverse to an optical axis of the lens.
  • a simultaneous displacement of the two lenses against each other would also be conceivable.
  • the first lens 42.1 and the second lens 42.2 are set up to react to the change in position with a change in the focal length of the projection optics 20.
  • the refractive power of the projection optics 20 is 20 dioptres, for example.
  • the refractive power of the projection optics 20 can be varied by about a quarter according to the above-mentioned publication by Barbero.
  • the change in the refractive power of the projection optics 20 must be approximately equal to 0.15, so that the above example value of 20 results in a changed value of 20.15.
  • the value of 0.15 dioptres is certainly in the range of a quarter of the refractive power of 20 dioptres, so that a desired range of adjustment 26 for the distance at which a sharp image of the inner light distribution is produced can be implemented.
  • the projection optics 48 has a first end position and a second end position for the relative displacement of the two lenses 42.1, 42.2.
  • the projection optics 20 sharply depicts the inner light distribution at a distance from the headlight 10 of between 10 m and 15 m. This is the end position that is also set during normal operation of the light module 16, in which the light module 16 is operated as a high-beam module, for example.
  • the projection optics 20 form the inner light distribution at a distance from the headlight 10 sharply, which is between 3m and 8m.
  • This end position is set, for example, at walking speed, such as that which occurs in parking situations or in stop-and-go operation.
  • the internal light distribution or directional distribution of reflected rays results, for example, from the illumination of the micromirror of a DMD chip 28 by a light source 50.
  • the light source 50, the actuator means 24 and the position of the micromirror of the DMD chip 28 are controlled by a control unit 43.
  • a direction z coincides with the optical axis 44 and points from the DMD chip 28 to the projection optics 48.
  • the z-direction forms a right-handed coordinate system together with an x-direction and a y-direction.
  • figure 2 shows a preferred embodiment of a light module 16 as a dust-tight light module 16.
  • the first lens 42.1 and the second lens 42.2 are separated from one another by an air gap 45.
  • the first lens 42.1 has a first outer surface 42.1.1 facing the internal light distribution to be imaged (here: arrangement of the micromirrors of the DMD chip 28) and a first inner surface 42.1.2 facing the air gap 45.
  • the first outer surface 42.1.1 is a flat surface, for example.
  • the second lens 42.2 has a second inner surface 42.2.1 facing the air gap 45 and a second outer surface 42.2.2 facing the projection lens 48.
  • the second outer surface 42.2.2 is a flat surface, for example.
  • the outer surfaces 42.1.1 and 42.2.2 can also be concavely or convexly curved surfaces.
  • the following statements relating to the thickness of the first lens 42.1 relate in each case to a distance between a first imaginary flat surface, which is perpendicular to the optical axis 44 in the first lens 42.1, and the first inner surface 42.1.2.
  • the following statements relating to the thickness of the second lens 42.2 relate in this case to a distance of a second imaginary flat surface, which is perpendicular to the optical axis 44 in the second lens 42.2, from the second inner surface 42.2.1.
  • the optical axis 44 is in the figure 1 shown and falls in the figure 2 with the light beam 56 together.
  • First and second lenses satisfying these formulas represent examples of a first lens 42.1 and a second lens 42.2 which are arranged to react to the change in position with a change in the focal length of the projection optics.
  • the light module 16 has the light source 50 , primary optics 52 and a DMD chip 28 as the means 18 for generating the internal light distribution localized within the light module 16 .
  • the light source 50 is a semiconductor light source which is arranged on a first printed circuit board 54 and which emits light 56 in the direction of the primary optics 52 .
  • the primary optics 52 has a light-refracting part 52.1 and a reflector 52.2. The refractive part 52.1 is illuminated by the light source 50 illuminates and directs the light 56 onto the reflector 52.2.
  • the reflector 52.2 deflects the light 56 incident on it from the light-refracting part 52.1 onto a reflecting surface of a front side 28.1 of the DMD chip 28, the reflecting surface consisting of a large number of micromirrors. What is essential here is that the primary optics 52 direct the light 56 from the light source 50 onto the DMD chip 28 . How and with which optical elements this happens in detail is not essential for the invention.
  • a pivoting position of the micromirrors can be switched individually for each micromirror or at least for a subset of the micromirrors between a first pivoting position and a second pivoting position.
  • Each micromirror that is in the first pivoting position deflects the light incident on it from the primary optics 52 onto the projection optics 20 .
  • Each micromirror that is in the second pivoting position deflects the light 56 incident on it from the primary optics 52 in such a way that the deflected light does not fall on the projection optics 20 .
  • This light is directed onto an absorber 58, for example, and is absorbed there, so that it cannot produce any disruptive light effects.
  • the projection optics 20 directs the light 56 incident on it from the DMD chip 28 into the area 12 located in front of the motor vehicle headlight 10 (cf. figure 1 ). If the light module 16 is used as intended, this light is used before the Motor vehicle lying roadway illuminated.
  • the projection optics 20 have a projection lens 48 made of transparent plastic or glass.
  • the projection optics 20 can also have a plurality of lenses, for example an arrangement of an achromat and an imaging lens.
  • the path of the light 56 from the light source 50 to its exit from the projection optics 20 through the projection optics 20 lies completely in the dust-tight sealed interior 60.
  • This interior 60 is defined by a front housing part 62, a central support element 64 , the DMD chip 28, a first circuit board 54, the projection optics 20 and a dust-tight pressure equalization membrane 68 limits.
  • the first printed circuit board 54 serves to make contact with the light source.
  • a second printed circuit board 55 is used for contacting the DMD chip 28.
  • the second printed circuit board is located completely outside of the dust-tight interior 60.
  • the front housing part 62 is made of plastic and that seals and sealing lips 66 formed on the flange areas of the front housing part 62 are made of sealing material .
  • the central carrier element 64 has a front side 64.1 facing the interior space 60 and a rear side 64.2.
  • the central support element 64 has a first partial area 64.3 on the light source and primary optics side and a second partial area 64.4 on the DMD chip side. These two Sections 64.3 and 64.4 are spatially separated from one another, but are cohesively connected and together form the one-piece central support element 64.
  • the two sections 64.3 and 64.4 enclose an angle that is greater than 90° but less than 180°.
  • the central carrier element 64 is preferably made of metal and also serves as a heat sink, which absorbs the heat released in the light source 50 and emits it to the surroundings of the light module 16 .
  • the first printed circuit board 54 is firmly connected to the front side 64.1 of the central support element 64 in its first partial area 64.3.
  • the connection is, for example, a screw connection and/or an adhesive connection.
  • a front side of the first circuit board 54 carries the light source 50 realized as a semiconductor light source and the primary optics 52.
  • a back side of the first circuit board 54 faces the front side 64.1 of the central support element 64.
  • the laterally protruding edge of the front side 64.1 of the central support element 64 forms part of an interior-side flange area 64.5 of the central support element 64.
  • the second partial area 64.4 of the central carrier element 30 has a carrier element window 72.
  • FIG. A window edge area surrounding the carrier element window 72 forms a window flange area 36 on the rear side 64.2 of the central carrier element 64.
  • the DMD chip 28 is on the rear side 64.2 of the central carrier element 64 in its second partial area 64.4 is arranged in such a way that it covers the carrier element window 72.
  • the DMD chip 28 has two broad sides in the form of a front side 28.1 and a rear side, the front side and rear sides being separated from one another by lateral narrow sides 28.3 lying between them.
  • the front side 28.1 of the DMD chip 28 has a central chip area in which the micromirrors 28.4 are arranged, and it has a flange area 28.5 surrounding the central chip area in a closed curve, in which no micromirrors 28.4 are arranged.
  • the number of micromirrors is about 1.3 million, arranged in a matrix with 1152 columns and 1152 rows.
  • Such DMD chips digital mirror device
  • Texas Instruments are manufactured and marketed, for example, by Texas Instruments.
  • the figures 2 and 3 show in combination with one another that the DMD chip 28 is arranged overall in such a way that the two flange areas 74 and 28.5 face one another.
  • a DMD chip seal 76 in the form of a flat seal, which is held by the flange areas 78 and 28.5 with a pressing force that presses against one another and which seals the carrier element window 72 circulates in a closed curve.
  • the projection optics 20 has a further lens, which together with the projection lens 48 forms an anamorphic projection optics 20 .

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer-Lichtmodul nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1.The present invention relates to a motor vehicle headlight light module according to the preamble of claim 1.

Ein solches Lichtmodul ist aus der DE 10 2014 213 636 A1 bekannt. Ein aus der DE 10 2017 203 573 A1 bekanntes Lichtmodul weist Mittel zum Erzeugen einer inneren Lichtverteilung und eine Projektionsoptik auf. Die Projektionsoptik weist eine erste Linse und eine zweite Linse auf und ist dazu eingerichtet, die innere Lichtverteilung als äußere Lichtverteilung des Scheinwerfers abzustrahlen. Die Projektionsoptik weist eine variable Brennweite und ein zum Verstellen der Brennweite eingerichtetes Stellantriebsmittel aufweist, wobei das Stellantriebsmittel dazu eingerichtet ist, eine Lage von wenigstens einer der beiden Linsen zu der anderen der beiden Linsen zu verändern.Such a light module is from DE 10 2014 213 636 A1 known. one from the DE 10 2017 203 573 A1 known light module has means for generating an internal light distribution and projection optics. The projection optics have a first lens and a second lens and are set up to emit the inner light distribution as the outer light distribution of the headlight. The projection optics has a variable focal length and an actuator means configured to adjust the focal length, the actuator means being configured to change a position of at least one of the two lenses relative to the other of the two lenses.

Aus der Druckschrift DE 1 290 357 A von Alvarez ist ein System aus zwei speziell geformten optischen Linsen, mit denen unterschiedliche Brechkräfte realisierbar waren, bekannt. Die beiden Linsen sind so aufeinander abgestimmt, dass eine quer zur Richtung des durch Linsen hindurchtretenden Lichtes relativ zueinander erfolgende Verschiebung der beiden Linsen die Brechkraft des aus beiden Linsen gebildeten Linsensystems verändert. Die ursprüngliche Intention von Alvarez bestand darin, eine Brille zu entwickeln, mit der auf einfache Weise unterschiedliche Sehentfernungen scharf dargestellt werden können. In diesem Bereich werden die Alvarez-Linsen in den letzten Jahren stetig weiterentwickelt, da sie eine kostengünstige Alternative zu teuren Gleitsichtgläsern darstellen.From the pamphlet DE 1 290 357 A from Alvarez, a system consisting of two specially shaped optical lenses with which different refractive powers could be realized is known. The two lenses are matched to one another in such a way that a displacement of the two lenses relative to one another transverse to the direction of the light passing through the lenses changes the refractive power of the lens system formed from the two lenses. Alvarez's original intention was to develop glasses that could be used to focus on different visual distances in a simple manner. In this area, Alvarez lenses have undergone constant further development in recent years, as they represent a cost-effective alternative to expensive varifocal lenses.

Aus der Druckschrift Barbero, Rubinstein: Adjustable-Focus lenses based on the Alvarez Principle ist eine im Vergleich zur DE 1 290 357 A allgemeinere Flächenformel für brechende Flächen der Alvarez-Linsen bekannt.From the publication Barbero, Rubinstein: Adjustable-Focus lenses based on the Alvarez Principle is compared to the DE 1 290 357 A more general area formula for refracting surfaces of Alvarez lenses.

Aus der EP 3 301 497 A1 ist ein Lichtmodul mit einer flüssigkeitsgefüllten Linse bekannt, deren Form und damit Brechkraft z.B. durch Druck variierbar ist. Aus der DE 10 2016 108 675 A1 und aus der DE 10 2011 087 306 A1 sind staubdichte Lichtmodule bekannt.From the EP 3 301 497 A1 a light module with a liquid-filled lens is known, its shape and thus Refractive power can be varied, for example, by pressure. From the DE 10 2016 108 675 A1 and from the DE 10 2011 087 306 A1 dustproof light modules are known.

Das aus der DE 10 2017 203 573 A1 bekannte Lichtmodul ist ein Fernlichtmodul mit verstellbarer Leuchtweite, das außerhalb des Fernlichtbetriebs zur Projektion von Informationen auf die vor dem Kraftfahrzeug liegende Fahrbahn verwendbar ist. Für die Projektion von Informationen wird die Abstrahlrichtung des Lichtmoduls nach unten geschwenkt und die Brennweite des Lichtmoduls wird durch eine Verschiebung wenigstens einer Linse des Lichtmoduls so verringert, dass die Information scharf auf die Fahrbahn abgebildet wird.That from the DE 10 2017 203 573 A1 A well-known light module is a high-beam module with an adjustable headlight range that can be used outside of the high-beam mode to project information onto the road ahead of the motor vehicle. For the projection of information, the emission direction of the light module is pivoted downwards and the focal length of the light module is reduced by shifting at least one lens of the light module so that the information is sharply imaged onto the road.

Die Information ist dabei ein Bild einer inneren Lichtverteilung oder Richtungsverteilung von Lichtstrahlen, die von einem DMD-Chip (DMD: Digital Mirror Device) reflektiert werden. Ein solcher DMD-Chip weist eine sehr große Zahl (Größenordnung: 1 Million) von Mikrospiegeln auf, deren Spiegelstellung einzeln steuerbar ist und spiegelindividuell zwischen zwei Stellungen umschaltbar ist. Der DMD-Chip, der eine Gesamtspiegelfläche in der Größenordnung von weniger als 10 Quadratzentimetern hat, wird von einer Lichtquelle beleuchtet. Je nach Stellung der Spiegel wird das einfallende und am jeweiligen Spiegel reflektierte Licht zur Projektionsoptik oder an andere Orte reflektiert. Das zur Projektionsoptik reflektierte Licht wird auf die Fahrbahn projiziert und bildet das Muster der Stellungen der Mikrospiegel ab. Das übrige Licht wird zum Beispiel auf einen Absorber reflektiert.The information is an image of an internal light distribution or directional distribution of light rays reflected by a DMD chip (DMD: Digital Mirror Device). Such a DMD chip has a very large number (order of magnitude: 1 million) of micromirrors, the mirror position of which can be controlled individually and can be switched between two positions individually for each mirror. The DMD chip, which has a total mirror area on the order of less than 10 square centimeters, is illuminated by a light source. Depending on the position of the mirrors, the light that is incident and reflected on the respective mirror is reflected to the projection optics or to other locations. The light reflected to the projection optics is projected onto the roadway and forms the pattern of the positions of the micromirrors. The remaining light is reflected onto an absorber, for example.

Als Folge der großen Zahl von (untereinander gleichgroßen) Mikrospiegeln ist die reflektierende Fläche eines einzelnen Mikrospiegels sehr klein. Dies führt dazu, das Verunreinigungen, die zum Beispiel durch Staub bedingt sein können, die Abbildung der Spiegel stört, was sich durch dunkle Flecken und verwaschen erscheinende Bereiche in der äußeren Lichtverteilung bemerkbar macht.As a result of the large number of micromirrors (of the same size) the reflecting surface of a single micromirror is very small. As a result, contamination, which can be caused by dust, for example, disturbs the image of the mirror, which is noticeable in the form of dark spots and areas that appear washed out in the external light distribution.

Die Probleme des Standes der Technik werden durch das KFZ-Scheinwerfer-Lichtmodul gemäß Anspruch 1 gelöst.The problems of the prior art are solved by the motor vehicle headlight light module according to claim 1.

Die beim Stand der Technik verwendete Verschiebung einer Linse entlang ihrer optischen Achse wirkt sich tendenziell in einer Vergrößerung der erforderlichen Einbautiefe aus.The displacement of a lens along its optical axis used in the prior art tends to increase the required installation depth.

Die verwendete quer zur optischen Achse der Linsen erfolgende Verschiebung ist leichter in ein staubdichtes Gehäuse integrierbar als die aus dem Stand der Technik bekannte längs der optischen Achse erfolgende Verschiebung.The displacement used, which takes place transversely to the optical axis of the lenses, can be integrated more easily into a dust-tight housing than that which takes place along the optical axis, which is known from the prior art Shift.

Eine bevorzugte Ausgestaltung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Projektionsoptik dazu eingerichtet ist, eine Entfernung einer scharfen Abbildung der inneren Lichtverteilung von dem Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer durch das Verschieben zu verändern.A preferred configuration is characterized in that the projection optics are set up to change a distance of a sharp image of the internal light distribution from the motor vehicle headlight by moving it.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass die Projektionsoptik eine erste Endlage der Verschiebung und eine zweite Endlage der Verschiebung aufweist.It is also preferred that the projection optics has a first end position of the displacement and a second end position of the displacement.

Weiter ist bevorzugt, dass die Projektionsoptik dazu eingerichtet ist, die innere Lichtverteilung in der ersten Endlage in einer Entfernung zum Scheinwerfer scharf abzubilden, die zwischen 10m und 15m liegt.It is also preferred that the projection optics is set up to sharply image the inner light distribution in the first end position at a distance from the headlight that is between 10 m and 15 m.

Eine weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Projektionsoptik dazu eingerichtet ist, die innere Lichtverteilung in der zweiten Endlage in einer Entfernung zum Scheinwerfer scharf abzubilden, die zwischen 3m und 8m liegt.Another preferred embodiment is characterized in that the projection optics are set up to sharply image the inner light distribution in the second end position at a distance from the headlight that is between 3 m and 8 m.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass die Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfervorrichtung dazu eingerichtet ist, die Lage mit einem Elektromotor zu verstellen, der einen Gewindeantrieb antreibt, der eine mit dem Elektromotor gekoppelte Antriebsseite und eine mit einer der Beiden Linsen gekoppelte Abtriebsseite aufweist.It is also preferred that the motor vehicle headlight device is set up to adjust the position with an electric motor that drives a threaded drive that has a drive side coupled to the electric motor and an output side coupled to one of the two lenses.

Erfindungsgemäß weist das Lichtmodul ein staubdichtes Gehäuse auf, und die beiden Linsen sind in dem staubdichten Gehäuse angeordnet.According to the invention, the light module has a dustproof housing, and the two lenses are arranged in the dustproof housing.

Eine weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die erste Linse und die zweite Linse durch einen Luftspalt voneinander getrennt sind.A further preferred configuration is characterized in that the first lens and the second lens are separated from one another by an air gap.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass die erste Linse eine der abzubildenden inneren Lichtverteilung zugewandte erste äußere Fläche und eine dem Luftspalt zugewandte erste innere Fläche aufweist.It is also preferred that the first lens has a first outer surface facing the inner light distribution to be imaged and a first inner surface facing the air gap.

Weiter ist bevorzugt, dass die erste äußere Fläche eine ebene Fläche ist.It is further preferred that the first outer surface is a flat surface.

Eine weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die erste äußere Fläche konkav und/oder konvex gewölbt ist.A further preferred configuration is characterized in that the first outer surface is concavely and/or convexly curved.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass die zweite Linse eine dem Luftspalt zugewandte zweite innere Fläche und eine der Projektionslinse zugewandte zweite äußere Fläche aufweist.It is also preferred that the second lens has a second inner surface facing the air gap and a second outer surface facing the projection lens.

Weiter ist bevorzugt, dass die zweite äußere Fläche eine ebene Fläche ist.It is further preferred that the second outer surface is a flat surface.

Bevorzugt ist auch, dass die zweite äußere Fläche konkav und/oder konvex gewölbt ist.It is also preferred that the second outer surface is concave and/or convex.

Weitere Vorteile ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung, den Zeichnungen und den Unteransprüchen.Further advantages result from the following description, the drawings and the dependent claims.

Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung sind in den Zeichnungen dargestellt und werden in der nachfolgenden Beschreibung näher erläutert.Embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description.

Dabei zeigen, jeweils in schematischer Form:

  • Figur 1 ein Ausführungsbeispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfers;
  • Figur 2 eine bevorzugte Ausgestaltung eines Lichtmoduls als staubdichtes Lichtmodul; und
  • Figur 3 einen DMD-Chip des Lichtmoduls aus der Figur 2.
Show, each in schematic form:
  • figure 1 an embodiment of a motor vehicle headlight according to the invention;
  • figure 2 a preferred embodiment of a light module as a dust-proof light module; and
  • figure 3 a DMD chip of the light module from the figure 2 .

Dabei bezeichnen gleiche Bezugszeichen in verschiedenen Figuren jeweils gleiche oder zumindest ihrer Funktion nach vergleichbare Elemente.The same reference symbols in different figures denote the same elements or elements that are at least comparable in terms of their function.

Im Einzelnen zeigt die Figur 1 einen Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer 10, der dazu eingerichtet ist, einen vor dem Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer 10 lokalisierten Bereich 12 durch eine transparente Abdeckscheibe 14 des Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfers 10 hindurch mit einer äußeren Lichtverteilung zu beleuchten. Die äußere Lichtverteilung ergibt sich zum Beispiel als heller Bereich auf einer Fahrbahn oder einem vom dem Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer 10 stehenden Schirm.In detail, the figure 1 a motor vehicle headlight 10 which is set up to to illuminate an area 12 located in front of the motor vehicle headlight 10 through a transparent cover plate 14 of the motor vehicle headlight 10 with an external light distribution. The external light distribution results, for example, as a bright area on a roadway or on a screen projecting from the motor vehicle headlight 10 .

Der Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer 10 weist ein Lichtmodul 16 auf. Das Lichtmodul 16 weist Mittel 18 zum Erzeugen einer innerhalb des Lichtmoduls 16 lokalisierten inneren Lichtverteilung auf. Darüber hinaus weist das Lichtmodul 16 eine Projektionsoptik 20 auf, die dazu eingerichtet ist, die innere Lichtverteilung als die äußere Lichtverteilung in einer Abbildungsentfernung 22 (Fokusweite) von mehreren Metern zu dem Lichtmodul 16 scharf in den vor dem Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer 10 lokalisierten Bereich 12 abzubilden.The motor vehicle headlight 10 has a light module 16 . The light module 16 has means 18 for generating an internal light distribution localized within the light module 16 . In addition, the light module 16 has projection optics 20, which are set up to sharply image the inner light distribution as the outer light distribution at an imaging distance 22 (focus distance) of several meters from the light module 16 in the area 12 located in front of the motor vehicle headlight 10.

Die Projektionsoptik 20 weist im dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel eine Projektionslinse 48, eine erste Linse 42.1, eine zweite Linse 42.2 und Stellantriebsmittel 24 auf.The projection optics 20 has a projection lens 48, a first lens 42.1, a second lens 42.2 and actuator means 24 in the illustrated embodiment.

Die Projektionsoptik 20 ist dazu eingerichtet, die innere Lichtverteilung als äußere Lichtverteilung des Scheinwerfers 10 abzustrahlen. Die Projektionsoptik 20 weist eine variable Brennweite auf. Das Stellantriebsmittel 24 ist dazu eingerichtet, eine Lage von wenigstens einer der beiden Linsen 42.1, 42.2 zu der jeweils anderen der beiden Linsen 42.2, 42.1 zu verändern. Das Stellantriebsmittel 24 ist dazu eingerichtet, die Lage durch ein quer zu einer optischen Achse 44 der Projektionsoptik 20 erfolgendes Verschieben der ersten Linse 42.1 gegen die zweite Linse 42.2 und/oder der zweiten Linse 42.2 gegen die erste Linse 42.1 zu verändern.The projection optics 20 are set up to emit the inner light distribution as the outer light distribution of the headlight 10 . The projection optics 20 have a variable focal length. The actuator means 24 is adapted to a position of at least one of the two lenses 42.1, 42.2 to change to the other of the two lenses 42.2, 42.1. The actuator means 24 is set up to change the position by moving the first lens 42.1 against the second lens 42.2 and/or the second lens 42.2 against the first lens 42.1 transversely to an optical axis 44 of the projection optics 20.

Das Stellantriebsmittel 24 ist beispielsweise ein Elektromotor 24.1, beispielsweise ein Schrittmotor, der mit einem ersten Ende an einem Gehäuse 16.1 des Lichtmoduls 16 befestigt ist und der mit einem zweiten Ende über einen Gewindeantrieb 24.2 mit der ersten Linse 42.1 und/oder der zweiten Linse 42.2 verbunden ist. Der Schrittmotor dreht zum Beispiel eine Mutter auf einem Gewindestab, der mit der der ersten Linse 42.1 oder mit der zweiten Linse 42.2 verbunden ist, so dass eine Drehung der Mutter die angekoppelte Linse quer zu einer optischen Achse der Linse bewegt. Es wäre auch eine gleichzeitige Verschiebung der beiden Linsen gegeneinander denkbar.The actuator means 24 is, for example, an electric motor 24.1, for example a stepper motor, which is attached at a first end to a housing 16.1 of the light module 16 and which is connected at a second end via a threaded drive 24.2 to the first lens 42.1 and/or the second lens 42.2 is. For example, the stepping motor rotates a nut on a threaded rod connected to that of the first lens 42.1 or to the second lens 42.2 such that rotation of the nut moves the coupled lens transverse to an optical axis of the lens. A simultaneous displacement of the two lenses against each other would also be conceivable.

Die erste Linse 42.1 und die zweite Linse 42.2 sind dazu eingerichtet, auf die Veränderung der Lage mit einer Veränderung der Brennweite der Projektionsoptik 20 zu reagieren.The first lens 42.1 and the second lens 42.2 are set up to react to the change in position with a change in the focal length of the projection optics 20.

Die Brechkraft der Projektionsoptik 20 beträgt zum Beispiel 20 Dioptrien. Durch eine entsprechende Gestaltung der einander zugewandten brechenden Flächen der ersten Linse 42.1 und der zweiten Linse 42.2 kann die Brechkraft der Projektionsoptik 20 nach der oben genannten Druckschrift von Barbero um ca. ein Viertel variiert werden. Mit einer erwünschten Verstellbandbreite 26 von ca. 7m (minimaler Abstand zum Beispiel 5m, maximaler Abstand zum Beispiel 12,5m) für den Abstand des Lichtmoduls 16, bzw. der Abdeckscheibe 14 von einer äußeren Lichtverteilung, die ein scharfes Bild der inneren Lichtverteilung ist, muss die Änderung der Brechkraft der Projektionsoptik 20 etwa gleich 0,15 sein, so dass sich mit dem oben genannten Beispielwert von 20 ein geänderter Wert von 20,15 ergibt.The refractive power of the projection optics 20 is 20 dioptres, for example. By a corresponding design of the mutually facing refracting surfaces of the first lens 42.1 and the second lens 42.2, the refractive power of the projection optics 20 can be varied by about a quarter according to the above-mentioned publication by Barbero. With a desired adjustment bandwidth 26 of approx. 7 m (minimum distance, for example 5 m, maximum distance, for example 12.5 m) for the distance of the light module 16 or the cover plate 14 from an external light distribution, which is a sharp image of the internal light distribution, the change in the refractive power of the projection optics 20 must be approximately equal to 0.15, so that the above example value of 20 results in a changed value of 20.15.

Der Wert von 0,15 Dioptrien liegt sicher in dem Bereich von einem Viertel der Brechkraft von 20 Dioptrien, so dass eine erwünschte Verstellbandbreite 26 der Entfernung, in der ein scharfes Bild der inneren Lichtverteilung entsteht, realisierbar ist. Die Projektionsoptik 48 weist eine erste Endlage und eine zweite Endlage der relativ zueinander erfolgenden Verschiebung der beiden Linsen 42.1, 42.2 auf.The value of 0.15 dioptres is certainly in the range of a quarter of the refractive power of 20 dioptres, so that a desired range of adjustment 26 for the distance at which a sharp image of the inner light distribution is produced can be implemented. The projection optics 48 has a first end position and a second end position for the relative displacement of the two lenses 42.1, 42.2.

In der ersten Endlage bildet die Projektionsoptik 20 die innere Lichtverteilung in einer Entfernung zum Scheinwerfer 10 scharf ab, die zwischen 10m und 15m liegt. Dies ist die Endlage, die auch im normalen Betrieb des Lichtmoduls 16, in dem das Lichtmodul 16 zum Beispiel als Fernlichtmodul betrieben wird, eingestellt wird.In the first end position, the projection optics 20 sharply depicts the inner light distribution at a distance from the headlight 10 of between 10 m and 15 m. This is the end position that is also set during normal operation of the light module 16, in which the light module 16 is operated as a high-beam module, for example.

In der zweiten Endlage bildet die Projektionsoptik 20 die innere Lichtverteilung in einer Entfernung zum Scheinwerfer 10 scharf ab, die zwischen 3m und 8m liegt. Diese Endlage wird zum Beispiel bei Schrittgeschwindigkeit eingestellt, wie sie zum Beispiel bei Parksituationen oder im Stop and Go Betrieb auftreten.In the second end position, the projection optics 20 form the inner light distribution at a distance from the headlight 10 sharply, which is between 3m and 8m. This end position is set, for example, at walking speed, such as that which occurs in parking situations or in stop-and-go operation.

Die innere Lichtverteilung, bzw. Richtungsverteilung reflektierter Strahlen ergibt sich zum Beispiel durch Beleuchtung der Mikrospiegel eines DMD Chips 28 durch eine Lichtquelle 50. Die Lichtquelle 50, das Stellantriebsmittel 24 und die Stellung der Mikrospiegel des DMD-Chips 28 werden von einem Steuergerät 43 gesteuert.The internal light distribution or directional distribution of reflected rays results, for example, from the illumination of the micromirror of a DMD chip 28 by a light source 50. The light source 50, the actuator means 24 and the position of the micromirror of the DMD chip 28 are controlled by a control unit 43.

Eine Richtung z fällt mit der optischen Achse 44 zusammen und weist von dem DMD-Chip 28 zur Projektionsoptik 48. Die z-Richtung bildet zusammen mit einer x-Richtung und einer y-Richtung ein rechtshändiges Koordinatensystem.A direction z coincides with the optical axis 44 and points from the DMD chip 28 to the projection optics 48. The z-direction forms a right-handed coordinate system together with an x-direction and a y-direction.

Figur 2 zeigt eine bevorzugte Ausgestaltung eines Lichtmoduls 16 als staubdichtes Lichtmodul 16. figure 2 shows a preferred embodiment of a light module 16 as a dust-tight light module 16.

Die erste Linse 42.1 und die zweite Linse 42.2 sind durch einen Luftspalt 45 voneinander getrennt.The first lens 42.1 and the second lens 42.2 are separated from one another by an air gap 45.

Die erste Linse 42.1 weist eine der abzubildenden inneren Lichtverteilung (hier: Anordnung der Mikrospiegel des DMD-Chips 28) zugewandte erste äußere Fläche 42.1.1 und eine dem Luftspalt 45 zugewandte erste innere Fläche 42.1.2 auf. Die erste äußere Fläche 42.1.1 ist zum Beispiel eine ebene Fläche.The first lens 42.1 has a first outer surface 42.1.1 facing the internal light distribution to be imaged (here: arrangement of the micromirrors of the DMD chip 28) and a first inner surface 42.1.2 facing the air gap 45. The first outer surface 42.1.1 is a flat surface, for example.

Die zweite Linse 42.2 weist eine dem Luftspalt 45 zugewandte zweite innere Fläche 42.2.1 und eine der Projektionslinse 48 zugewandte zweite äußere Fläche 42.2.2 auf. Die zweite äußere Fläche 42.2.2 ist zum Beispiel eine ebene Fläche.The second lens 42.2 has a second inner surface 42.2.1 facing the air gap 45 and a second outer surface 42.2.2 facing the projection lens 48. The second outer surface 42.2.2 is a flat surface, for example.

Die äußeren Flächen 42.1.1 und 42.2.2 können auch konkav oder konvex gewölbte Flächen sein. In diesem Fall beziehen sich die folgenden, die Dicke der ersten Linse 42.1 betreffenden Ausführungen jeweils auf einen Abstand einer ersten gedachten ebenen Fläche, die senkrecht zur optischen Achse 44 in der ersten Linse 42.1 liegt, von der ersten inneren Fläche 42.1.2. Analog beziehen sich die folgenden, die Dicke der zweiten Linse 42.2 betreffenden Ausführungen in diesem Fall jeweils auf einen Abstand einer zweiten gedachten ebenen Fläche, die senkrecht zur optischen Achse 44 in der zweiten Linse 42.2 liegt, von der zweiten inneren Fläche 42.2.1. Die optische Achse 44 ist in der Figur 1 dargestellt und fällt in der Figur 2 mit dem Lichtstrahl 56 zusammen.The outer surfaces 42.1.1 and 42.2.2 can also be concavely or convexly curved surfaces. In this case, the following statements relating to the thickness of the first lens 42.1 relate in each case to a distance between a first imaginary flat surface, which is perpendicular to the optical axis 44 in the first lens 42.1, and the first inner surface 42.1.2. Analogously, the following statements relating to the thickness of the second lens 42.2 relate in this case to a distance of a second imaginary flat surface, which is perpendicular to the optical axis 44 in the second lens 42.2, from the second inner surface 42.2.1. The optical axis 44 is in the figure 1 shown and falls in the figure 2 with the light beam 56 together.

Ein Abstand z1 der ersten inneren Fläche 42.1.2 von der ersten ebenen Fläche (gedacht oder real, z.B. 42.1.1) genügt in einer Ausgestaltung der Gleichung z 1 = A xy 2 + x 3 3 + E

Figure imgb0001
wobei A und E Konstanten sind.A distance z1 of the first inner surface 42.1.2 from the first flat surface (imagined or real, eg 42.1.1) is sufficient in one embodiment of the equation e.g 1 = A xy 2 + x 3 3 + E
Figure imgb0001
 where A and E are constants.

Ein Abstand z2 der zweiten inneren Fläche 42.2.1 von der zweiten ebenen Fläche (gedacht oder real, z.B. 42.2.2) genügt in einer Ausgestaltung der Gleichung z 2 = − A xy 2 + x 3 3 + E

Figure imgb0002
A distance z2 of the second inner surface 42.2.1 from the second planar surface (imagined or real, eg 42.2.2) is sufficient in one embodiment of the equation e.g 2 = − A xy 2 + x 3 3 + E
Figure imgb0002

Die Erfindung ist nicht auf diesen Formeln genügende Ausgestaltungen beschränkt. Wie eingangs ausgeführt, ist aus der Druckschrift Barbero, Rubinstein: "Adjustable-Focus lenses based on the Alvarez Principle" eine im Vergleich zur DE 1 290 357 A allgemeinere Flächenformel für brechende Flächen der Alvarez-Linsen bekannt.The invention is not limited to configurations that satisfy these formulas. As stated at the outset, from the publication Barbero, Rubinstein: "Adjustable-Focus lenses based on the Alvarez Principle" is a comparison to DE 1 290 357 A more general area formula for refracting surfaces of Alvarez lenses.

Erste und zweite Linsen, die diesen Formeln genügen, stellen Beispiele einer ersten Linse 42.1 und einer zweiten Linse 42.2 dar, die dazu eingerichtet sind, auf die Veränderung der Lage mit einer Veränderung der Brennweite der Projektionsoptik zu reagieren.First and second lenses satisfying these formulas represent examples of a first lens 42.1 and a second lens 42.2 which are arranged to react to the change in position with a change in the focal length of the projection optics.

Als Mittel 18 zum Erzeugen der innerhalb des Lichtmoduls 16 lokalisierten inneren Lichtverteilung weist das Lichtmodul 16 die Lichtquelle 50, eine Primäroptik 52 und einen DMD-Chip 28 auf. Die Lichtquelle 50 ist eine Halbleiterlichtquelle, die auf einer ersten Leiterplatte 54 angeordnet ist und die Licht 56 in Richtung zu der Primäroptik 52 abstrahlt. Die Primäroptik 52 weist einen lichtbrechenden Teil 52.1 und einen Reflektor 52.2 auf. Der lichtbrechende Teil 52.1 wird von der Lichtquelle 50 beleuchtet und richtet das Licht 56 auf den Reflektor 52.2. Der Reflektor 52.2 lenkt das auf ihn vom lichtbrechenden Teil 52.1 her einfallende Licht 56 auf eine spiegelnde Fläche einer Vorderseite 28.1 des DMD-Chips 28, wobei die spiegelnde Fläche aus einer Vielzahl von Mikrospiegeln besteht. Wesentlich ist dabei, dass die Primäroptik 52 das Licht 56 der Lichtquelle 50 auf den DMD-Chip 28 richtet. Wie und mit welchen optischen Elementen dies im Einzelnen geschieht, ist für die Erfindung nicht wesentlich.The light module 16 has the light source 50 , primary optics 52 and a DMD chip 28 as the means 18 for generating the internal light distribution localized within the light module 16 . The light source 50 is a semiconductor light source which is arranged on a first printed circuit board 54 and which emits light 56 in the direction of the primary optics 52 . The primary optics 52 has a light-refracting part 52.1 and a reflector 52.2. The refractive part 52.1 is illuminated by the light source 50 illuminates and directs the light 56 onto the reflector 52.2. The reflector 52.2 deflects the light 56 incident on it from the light-refracting part 52.1 onto a reflecting surface of a front side 28.1 of the DMD chip 28, the reflecting surface consisting of a large number of micromirrors. What is essential here is that the primary optics 52 direct the light 56 from the light source 50 onto the DMD chip 28 . How and with which optical elements this happens in detail is not essential for the invention.

Eine Schwenkstellung der Mikrospiegel ist individuell für jeden Mikrospiegel oder zumindest für eine Teilmenge der Mikrospiegel zwischen einer ersten Schwenkstellung und einer zweiten Schwenkstellung umschaltbar. Jeder Mikrospiegel, der sich in der ersten Schwenkstellung befindet, lenkt das auf ihn von der Primäroptik 52 her einfallende Licht auf die Projektionsoptik 20 um. Jeder Mikrospiegel, der sich in der zweiten Schwenkstellung befindet, lenkt das auf ihn von der Primäroptik 52 her einfallende Licht 56 so ab, dass das abgelenkte Licht nicht auf die Projektionsoptik 20 fällt. Dieses Licht wird zum Beispiel auf einen Absorber 58 gelenkt und dort absorbiert, so dass es keine störenden Lichteffekte erzeugen kann.A pivoting position of the micromirrors can be switched individually for each micromirror or at least for a subset of the micromirrors between a first pivoting position and a second pivoting position. Each micromirror that is in the first pivoting position deflects the light incident on it from the primary optics 52 onto the projection optics 20 . Each micromirror that is in the second pivoting position deflects the light 56 incident on it from the primary optics 52 in such a way that the deflected light does not fall on the projection optics 20 . This light is directed onto an absorber 58, for example, and is absorbed there, so that it cannot produce any disruptive light effects.

Die Projektionsoptik 20 richtet das auf sie von dem DMD-Chip 28 her einfallende Licht 56 in den vor dem Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer 10 lokalisierten Bereich 12 (vgl. Figur 1). Bei einer bestimmungsgemäßen Verwendung des Lichtmoduls 16 wird mit diesem Licht die vor dem Kraftfahrzeug liegende Fahrbahn ausgeleuchtet. Die Projektionsoptik 20 weist eine Projektionslinse 48 aus transparentem Kunststoff oder Glas auf. Die Projektionsoptik 20 kann auch mehrere Linsen aufweisen, zum Beispiel eine Anordnung aus einem Achromaten und einer abbildenden Linse.The projection optics 20 directs the light 56 incident on it from the DMD chip 28 into the area 12 located in front of the motor vehicle headlight 10 (cf. figure 1 ). If the light module 16 is used as intended, this light is used before the Motor vehicle lying roadway illuminated. The projection optics 20 have a projection lens 48 made of transparent plastic or glass. The projection optics 20 can also have a plurality of lenses, for example an arrangement of an achromat and an imaging lens.

Bei dem erfindungsgemäßen Scheinwerfer 10 liegt der Weg des Lichtes 56 von der Lichtquelle 50 bis zu seinem durch die Projektionsoptik 20 hindurch erfolgenden Austritt aus der Projektionsoptik 20 vollständig in dem staubdicht abgedichteten Innenraum 60. Dieser Innenraum 60 wird durch ein Gehäusevorderteil 62, ein zentrales Trägerelement 64, den DMD-Chip 28, eine erste Leiterplatte 54, die Projektionsoptik 20 und eine staubdichte Druckausgleichsmembrane 68 begrenzt. Die erste Leiterplatte 54 dient zur Kontaktierung der Lichtquelle. Eine zweite Leiterplatte 55 dient zur Kontaktierung des DMD-Chips 28. Die zweite Leiterplatte liegt vollständig außerhalb des staubdichten Innenraums 60. Weiter ist bevorzugt, dass das Gehäusevorderteil 62 aus Kunststoff besteht und dass Dichtungen und an Flanschbereiche des Gehäusevorderteils 62 angeformte Dichtlippen 66 aus Dichtungsmaterial bestehen.In the headlight 10 according to the invention, the path of the light 56 from the light source 50 to its exit from the projection optics 20 through the projection optics 20 lies completely in the dust-tight sealed interior 60. This interior 60 is defined by a front housing part 62, a central support element 64 , the DMD chip 28, a first circuit board 54, the projection optics 20 and a dust-tight pressure equalization membrane 68 limits. The first printed circuit board 54 serves to make contact with the light source. A second printed circuit board 55 is used for contacting the DMD chip 28. The second printed circuit board is located completely outside of the dust-tight interior 60. It is also preferred that the front housing part 62 is made of plastic and that seals and sealing lips 66 formed on the flange areas of the front housing part 62 are made of sealing material .

Das zentrale Trägerelement 64 weist eine dem Innenraum 60 zugewandte Vorderseite 64.1 und eine Rückseite 64.2 auf. Das zentrale Trägerelement 64 weist einen Lichtquellen- und Primäroptik-seitigen ersten Teilbereich 64.3 und einen DMD-Chip-seitigen zweiten Teilbereich 64.4 auf. Diese beiden Teilbereiche 64.3 und 64.4 sind räumlich voneinander getrennt, hängen aber stoffschlüssig zusammen und bilden zusammen das einstückige zentrale Trägerelement 64. Die beiden Teilbereiche 64.3 und 64.4 schließen einen Winkel ein, der größer als 90°, aber kleiner als 180° ist. Das zentrale Trägerelement 64 besteht bevorzugt aus Metall und dient auch als Kühlkörper, der die in der Lichtquelle 50 frei werdende Wärme aufnimmt und an die Umgebung des Lichtmoduls 16 abgibt.The central carrier element 64 has a front side 64.1 facing the interior space 60 and a rear side 64.2. The central support element 64 has a first partial area 64.3 on the light source and primary optics side and a second partial area 64.4 on the DMD chip side. These two Sections 64.3 and 64.4 are spatially separated from one another, but are cohesively connected and together form the one-piece central support element 64. The two sections 64.3 and 64.4 enclose an angle that is greater than 90° but less than 180°. The central carrier element 64 is preferably made of metal and also serves as a heat sink, which absorbs the heat released in the light source 50 and emits it to the surroundings of the light module 16 .

Die erste Leiterplatte 54 ist fest mit der Vorderseite 64.1 des zentralen Trägerelements 64 in dessen erstem Teilbereich 64.3 verbunden. Die Verbindung ist zum Beispiel eine Schraub- und/oder Klebeverbindung. Eine Vorderseite der ersten Leiterplatte 54 trägt die als Halbleiterlichtquelle verwirklichte Lichtquelle 50 und die Primäroptik 52. Eine Rückseite der ersten Leiterplatte 54 ist der Vorderseite 64.1 des zentralen Trägerelements 64 zugewandt. Der seitlich überstehende Rand der Vorderseite 64.1 des zentralen Trägerelements 64 bildet einen Teil eines innenraumseitigen Flanschbereiches 64.5 des zentralen Trägerelements 64.The first printed circuit board 54 is firmly connected to the front side 64.1 of the central support element 64 in its first partial area 64.3. The connection is, for example, a screw connection and/or an adhesive connection. A front side of the first circuit board 54 carries the light source 50 realized as a semiconductor light source and the primary optics 52. A back side of the first circuit board 54 faces the front side 64.1 of the central support element 64. The laterally protruding edge of the front side 64.1 of the central support element 64 forms part of an interior-side flange area 64.5 of the central support element 64.

Der zweite Teilbereich 64.4 des zentralen Trägerelements 30 weist ein Trägerelementfenster 72 auf. Ein das Trägerelementfenster 72 umlaufender Fenster-Randbereich bildet auf der Rückseite 64.2 des zentralen Trägerelements 64 einen Fenster-Flanschbereich 36. Der DMD-Chip 28 ist auf der Rückseite 64.2 des zentralen Trägerelements 64 in dessen zweiten Teilbereich 64.4 so angeordnet, dass er das Trägerelementfenster 72 abdeckt.The second partial area 64.4 of the central carrier element 30 has a carrier element window 72. FIG. A window edge area surrounding the carrier element window 72 forms a window flange area 36 on the rear side 64.2 of the central carrier element 64. The DMD chip 28 is on the rear side 64.2 of the central carrier element 64 in its second partial area 64.4 is arranged in such a way that it covers the carrier element window 72.

Wie Figur 3 zeigt, weist der DMD-Chip 28 zwei Breitseiten in Form einer Vorderseite 28.1 und einer Rückseite auf, wobei Vorderseite und Rückseiten durch zwischen ihnen liegende seitliche Schmalseiten 28.3 voneinander getrennt sind. Dabei ist seine die Mikrospiegel 28.4 tragende Vorderseite 28.1 dem Trägerelementfenster 72 und damit dem Innenraum 60 zugewandt. Die Vorderseite 28.1 des DMD-Chips 28 weist einen zentralen Chip-Bereich auf, in dem die Mikrospiegel 28.4 angeordnet sind, und er weist einen den zentralen Chip-Bereich in einer geschlossenen Kurve umlaufenden Flanschbereich 28.5 auf, in dem keine Mikrospiegel 28.4 angeordnet sind. Die Zahl der Mikrospiegel beträgt zum Beispiel ca. 1,3 Millionen, die in einer Matrix mit 1152 Spalten und 1152 Reihen angeordnet sind. Derartige DMD-Chips (digital mirror device) werden zum Beispiel von der Firma Texas Instruments hergestellt und vertrieben.As figure 3 shows, the DMD chip 28 has two broad sides in the form of a front side 28.1 and a rear side, the front side and rear sides being separated from one another by lateral narrow sides 28.3 lying between them. Its front side 28.1, which carries the micromirrors 28.4, faces the carrier element window 72 and thus the interior space 60. The front side 28.1 of the DMD chip 28 has a central chip area in which the micromirrors 28.4 are arranged, and it has a flange area 28.5 surrounding the central chip area in a closed curve, in which no micromirrors 28.4 are arranged. For example, the number of micromirrors is about 1.3 million, arranged in a matrix with 1152 columns and 1152 rows. Such DMD chips (digital mirror device) are manufactured and marketed, for example, by Texas Instruments.

Die Figuren 2 und 3 zeigen in Kombination miteinander, dass der DMD-Chip 28 insgesamt so angeordnet ist, dass die beiden Flanschbereiche 74 und 28.5 einander gegenüberliegen. Zwischen den beiden Flanschbereichen 74 und 28.5 liegt eine DMD-Chip-Dichtung 76 in Form einer Flachdichtung, die von den Flanschbereichen 78 und 28.5 mit einer diese Flanschbereiche aufeinander pressenden Anpresskraft gehalten wird und die das Trägerelementfenster 72 in einer geschlossenen Kurve umläuft.the figures 2 and 3 show in combination with one another that the DMD chip 28 is arranged overall in such a way that the two flange areas 74 and 28.5 face one another. Between the two flange areas 74 and 28.5 is a DMD chip seal 76 in the form of a flat seal, which is held by the flange areas 78 and 28.5 with a pressing force that presses against one another and which seals the carrier element window 72 circulates in a closed curve.

Optional weist die Projektionsoptik 20 eine weitere Linse auf, die zusammen mit der Projektionslinse 48 eine anamorphotische Projektionsoptik 20 bildet.Optionally, the projection optics 20 has a further lens, which together with the projection lens 48 forms an anamorphic projection optics 20 .

Claims (13)

  1. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) which means for imaging an internal light distribution using projection optics (20) having a projection lens (48), a first lens (42.1) and a second lens (42.2), the optics being designed to image the internal light distribution as external light distribution, the projection optics (20) having a variable focal length and an actuator means (24) designed to adjust the focal length, the actuator means (24) being designed to adjust a position of at least one of the first and the second lens (42.1, 42.2) with respect to the other of the two first and second lenses, and the actuator means (24) being designed to change the position by moving, transversely to an optical axis (44) of the projection optics (20), the first lens (42.1) against the second lens (42.2) and/or the second lens (42.2) against the first lens (42.1), and the first lens (42.1) and the second lens (42.1) being designed to react to the change in position with a change in the focal length of the projection optics (20), and the internal light distribution resulting from illumination of the micromirrors of a DMD chip (28) by means of a light source (50), characterized in that the motor vehicle headlight light module (16) has a dust-proof housing (16.1) and in that the two lenses (42.1, 42.1) are arranged in the dust-proof housing (16.1) and in that its interior (60) is delimited by a housing front part (62), a central support element, the DMD chip (28), a first printed circuit board (54), the projection lens (48) of the projection optics (20) and a dust-proof pressure equalization membrane (68).
  2. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that the projection optics (20) are designed to change, by means of the movement, a distance from the motor vehicle headlight light module (16) at which the internal light distribution is sharply imaged.
  3. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to claim 1, characterized in that the projection optics (20) have a first end position of the movement and a second end position of the movement.
  4. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to claim 3, characterized in that the projection optics (20) are designed to sharply image the internal light distribution in the first end position at a distance from the motor vehicle headlight light module (16) of between 10m and 15m.
  5. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to claim 3 or claim 4, characterized in that the projection optics (20) are designed to sharply image the internal light distribution in the second end position at a distance from the motor vehicle headlight light module (16) of between 3m and 8m.
  6. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the motor vehicle headlight light module (16) is designed to adjust the position using an electric motor (24.1) which drives a threaded drive (24.2) that has a drive side coupled to an electric motor (24.1) and an output side coupled to one of the two lenses.
  7. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first lens (42.1) and the second lens (42.2) are separated from one another by an air gap (45).
  8. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first lens (42.1) has a first outer surface (42.1.1) facing the internal light distribution to be imaged and a first inner surface (42.1.2) facing the air gap (45).
  9. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to claim 8, characterized in that the first outer surface (42.1.1) is a flat surface.
  10. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to claim 8, characterized in that the first outer surface (42.1.1) is curved concavely and/or convexly.
  11. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second lens (42.2) has a second inner surface (42.2.1) facing the air gap (45) and a second outer surface (42.2.2) facing the projection lens (48).
  12. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to claim 11, characterized in that the second outer surface (42.2.2) is a flat surface.
  13. Motor vehicle headlight light module (16) according to claim 11 or claim 12, characterized in that the second outer surface (42.2.2) is curved concavely and/or convexly.
EP20155528.1A 2019-02-07 2020-02-05 Motor vehicle headlight module with variable focal length Active EP3699487B1 (en)

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DE102019103033.1A DE102019103033A1 (en) 2019-02-07 2019-02-07 Motor vehicle headlight module with a variable focus distance

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DE102021207081A1 (en) 2021-07-06 2023-01-12 Robert Bosch Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung projection module

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