EP3671016A1 - Lighting device for a motor vehicle headlamp and motor vehicle headlamp - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting device (1) for a motor vehicle headlight for generating a light distribution with a cut-off line, the lighting device comprising a light source (10), a translucent body (100), a light feed element (101) for feeding light, which the emits at least one light source (10) and has a projection device (500). The translucent body (100) has a diaphragm device (103) with a diaphragm edge region (104). A light beam (S2) propagating in the optic body (110) is imaged by the projection device (500) as a light distribution (LV) with a light-dark boundary (HD), the light-dark boundary (HD) from the diaphragm edge area (104) of the aperture device (103) is determined. At least one light guide element (200, 300) is arranged on the optic body (110, 300), which has a light guide element light coupling surface (201, 301) and a light guide element light coupling surface (202, 302), and wherein the at least one light guide element (200, 300) is arranged on the optic body (110) in such a way that light (S3) is fed from the light feed element (101) via the light guide element light coupling surface (201, 301) into the at least one light guide element (200, 300), propagates in it and over it the light-guiding element light decoupling surface (202, 302) re-enters the optic body (110), the light guiding element light decoupling surface (202, 302) of the at least one light guiding element (200, 300) opening into the optic body (110) such that the at least one Light-guiding element light decoupling surface (200, 300), seen in a vertical direction (Z), lies below the diaphragm edge area (104), so that the light that has entered the optic body (110) again t rays (S5) are projected by the projection optics device (200) as a signlight light bundle (SL) into an area (B) of the light distribution above the light-dark boundary, and, for example as a signlight light distribution (SV), is imaged in the light image .

Description

The invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle headlight for generating a light distribution with a cut-off line, the lighting device having at least one light source, a translucent body, at least one light feed element for feeding light which emits the at least one light source, and a projection device, wherein the translucent body, the at least one light feed element and the projection device form an integral transparent, translucent optic body, preferably made of the same material, the translucent body having a diaphragm device with a diaphragm edge region, the diaphragm device being arranged in the direction of light propagation between the light feed element and the projection device , and wherein via the light feed element light of the at least one light source enters the translucent body, which is located in the l translucent body propagates as the first light beam, and wherein the aperture device modifies the first light beam to a modified second light beam such that this second light beam is imaged by the projection device as a light distribution with a light-dark boundary, the light-dark Boundary, in particular the shape and position of the light-dark boundary, is determined by a diaphragm edge region of the diaphragm device, and the projection device is designed to be inverting in the vertical direction.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a motor vehicle headlight comprising at least one such lighting device.

An above-described lighting device for a motor vehicle headlight or motor vehicle headlight with one or more such lighting devices is known from the prior art and is used, for example, to implement a low-beam light distribution or part of a low-beam light distribution, in particular the apron light distribution of a low-beam light distribution.

In the following, relevant terms used are to be defined for the time being. The optical axis of the optical body or the projection optical device is denoted by X, this is approximately the main emission direction of the light from the optics body. "Z" defines a vertical axis that is orthogonal to the optical axis X. Another axis "Y" runs perpendicular to the optical axis X and is orthogonal to the other two axes, X, Z.

The axes X, Z span a vertical plane, the axes X, Y span a horizontal plane.

When the direction of light rays in the "vertical direction" is mentioned, the projection of these light rays into the X, Z plane is meant. When the direction of light rays in the "horizontal direction" is mentioned, the projection of these light rays into the X, Y plane is meant.

In general, the terms "horizontal" and "vertical" are used for a simplified representation of the relationships; in a typical installation situation in a motor vehicle, the axes and planes described can actually be horizontal and vertical. However, it can also be provided that the lighting device or, in the case of a plurality of lighting devices, one or more, in particular all lighting devices, are rotated with respect to this position, for example the X axis can be inclined upwards or downwards against a horizontal plane of the reference system earth, or the one described The X, Y, Z axis system can generally be twisted. A person skilled in the art therefore understands that the terms used serve a simplified description and do not necessarily have to be oriented in this way in the earth reference system.

The projection device has a focal point or a focal plane which lies approximately in the area of the diaphragm edge of the optical body. Correspondingly, an intermediate light image in the area of the focal point or the focal plane, which intermediate image produces the optical bodies, is imaged by the projection device as a light distribution in front of the lighting device. In the case of a lighting device mentioned at the outset, the projection device is designed to be inverting in the vertical direction. This means that light rays that run above the horizontal X, Y plane in the focal plane come to lie in a lower region, ie below the so-called HH line, in the light image from the projection device, while light rays that are in the Focal plane run in an area below the X, Y plane, are shown above the HH line.

As a result of the configuration of the optic body with a diaphragm edge region, which preferably projects vertically from below the X, Y plane to this X, Y plane or slightly above it, the light beams from the lower region, i.e. faded out below the X, Y plane, so that there is a dimmed light distribution with a light-dark boundary, in particular a light-dark boundary which runs approximately horizontally in the light image and which, for example, can also have an asymmetry component.

According to legal requirements, light distributions from vehicle headlights have to meet a number of requirements.

For example, according to ECE and SAE above the light-dark line (HD line) - i.e. outside the primary illuminated area - minimum and maximum light intensities are required in certain regions. These act as a so-called "signlight" and enable e.g. illuminating overhead signposts. The luminous intensities used are usually in the order of magnitude of the usual scattered light values, thus far below the luminous intensities below the HD line, but predetermined minimum luminous intensities have to be exceeded. The required light values must be achieved with the least possible glare.

It is an object of the invention to provide a lighting device for a motor vehicle headlight, with which a "Signlight" described above can be generated.

This object is achieved with a lighting device mentioned at the outset in that, according to the invention, at least one light-guiding element is arranged on the optic body, which has at least one light-guiding element, a light-guiding element-light coupling surface and a light-guiding element-light coupling-out surface, and wherein the at least one light-guiding element is arranged in this way on the optics body that light from the light feed element is fed into the at least one light guide element via the light guide element light coupling surface, propagates in it, in particular at least partially by means of total reflection, and re-enters the optics body via the light guide element light coupling surface, the light guide element light coupling surface of the at least a light-guiding element opens into the optic body in such a way that the at least one light-guiding element light decoupling surface, when viewed in a vertical direction, lies at least partially, preferably completely, below the diaphragm edge region, the at least one light-guiding element or the light-guiding elements preferably looking in the direction of an optical axis of the optic body , in each case up to the diaphragm edge region or beyond, and wherein at least some, preferably all, light rays that have re-entered the optics body are projected by the projection optics device as a signlight light bundle into an area of the light distribution above the light-dark boundary, and, for example, as a Signlight light distribution, is shown in the photograph.

Due to the aperture edge area, no light is available in a lighting device according to the prior art, which could be imaged as a signlight in an area above the H-H line. The invention makes it possible to feed light from the light feed-in area with the at least one light-guiding element below the diaphragm edge area of the projection device. After these light rays originate from the position of the light-guiding element light decoupling surface of the at least one light-guiding element from a region of the focal plane of the projection device which is substantially or completely below the X, Y plane, this light is emitted by the projection device into a region above the HH - Line pictured.

It is preferably provided that the optic body and the at least one light-guiding element are formed in one piece with one another, and in particular from the same material. Such an embodiment has the advantage that at the point where the light-guiding-light coupling-out surface opens into the optic body, there is no interface at which the light from the light-guiding element could be deflected unintentionally. Light that "emerges" from the "light-guiding-element coupling-out surface" simply propagates in the optic body with the direction in which it comes from the light-guiding element.

In the same way, light from the light feed element enters the light guide element via the light guiding element light coupling surface without optical influence, since in the case of a one-piece design made of the same material there is no real interface.

It is preferably provided that the light-guiding optic body is laterally delimited by mutually opposite side delimitation surfaces, with light propagating in the optic body preferably at least partially at the side delimitation surfaces is reflected, in particular totally reflected, and wherein at least one light-guiding element is arranged on at least one side boundary surface.

These side boundary surfaces can run parallel to one another and / or parallel to the optical axis of the optical body, preferably they diverge in the direction of the optical axis, so that the light beam propagating in the optical body can widen vertically.

In particular, it is provided that at least one light guide element, preferably exactly one light guide element, is arranged on each of the two side boundary surfaces. In this way, the Signlight light distribution can also have a desired width in the horizontal direction.

It can be provided that the at least one light-guiding element or the light-guiding elements runs or run essentially parallel to an optical axis of the optical body. In this case, light from the light feed area, which essentially couples into the light guide element in the direction of the optical axis, propagates in a straight line without or only with one or a few total reflections through the light guide element.

For example, it can be provided that the at least one light-guiding element or the light-guiding elements have a rectangular or square cross-section or rectangular or square cross-sections, preferably with all light-guiding elements all having identical cross-sections, and / or preferably the cross-section of a light-guiding element over its entire longitudinal extent stays the same.

For a signlight light distribution that is as symmetrical as possible in the horizontal direction in the light image, provision is preferably made for the light guide elements to run at the same height in the vertical direction when there is one light guide element per side boundary surface.

It is preferably provided that the at least one light-guiding element or the light-guiding elements has or have a straight course.

In particular, it can be provided that at least one, preferably all, of the light-guiding elements of a side boundary surface is / are arranged such that the Light-guiding element light decoupling surface opens into the optic body below the diaphragm edge area or below a diaphragm edge located in the diaphragm edge area.

It can also be provided that at least one of the light-guiding elements of a side delimitation surface is arranged such that an upper edge of the light-guiding element light coupling-out surface opens into the optic body at the same height as the diaphragm edge area or a diaphragm edge located in the diaphragm edge area.

For example, it can be provided that at least one of the side boundary surfaces, preferably both side boundary surfaces, as seen in the direction of the optical axis, are each subdivided into a rear boundary surface, a middle boundary surface and a front boundary surface, the middle boundary surface of one or the two side boundary surface (s) jumping back in the horizontal direction, transverse to the optical axis with respect to the rear and front boundary surface of the respective side boundary surface, ie is recessed, and wherein the at least one light-guiding element is arranged on the central side boundary surface, and is preferably connected to it in one piece, and extends from the rear region of the optical body delimited by the rear side boundary surface to the front region delimited by the front side boundary surface extends the optic body.

For example, the central boundary surface extends approximately in the region of the light-conducting body, the rear boundary surface extends, for example, at least partially over a region of the light feed element, and the front region extends e.g. over the area of the projection device.

Boundary surfaces of the side boundary surface are preferably flat and, for example, parallel to one another.

A light-guiding element thus forms a type of web, which is located on the recessed boundary surface of the optic body, and is preferably formed in one piece with it.

Total reflection preferably occurs on outer surfaces, for example an upper side and underside and a lateral outer surface of the light-guiding element. Light can enter the light-guiding body, since there the light-guiding element is preferably directly on the light-guiding body Body adjoins, in particular formed integrally therewith from the same material, this light is intercepted by the diaphragm edge device.

Depending on the direction of propagation, light travels straight through a light guide element as it enters the light guide element, or it is totally reflected at boundary surfaces which limit the light guide element to the outside and propagates in this way to the projection device.

It is preferably provided that a lateral, preferably flat, outer surface of the at least one light-guiding element lies at the same height as the rear and / or front boundary surface of the side boundary surface on which it is arranged.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the diaphragm device is formed by boundary surfaces of the translucent body, which are e.g. converge in a common diaphragm edge that lies in the area of the diaphragm edge.

In this case it can be provided that outside the optic body, between the boundary surfaces, a physical aperture and / or on the outside of at least one of the two boundary surfaces, preferably that boundary surface which is arranged in the light propagation direction in front of the other boundary surface, a coating or a physical aperture is applied, by means of which light emerging from the light-guiding body can be intercepted.

In this case, it is then advantageously provided that the physical diaphragm and / or the coating for each light-guiding element has a recess through which the light-guiding element runs, so that light can propagate freely from the physical diaphragm and / or the coating.

It is preferably provided that the light feed element comprises light-shaping optics, which shapes the light emitted by the at least one light source in such a way that it is emitted essentially into the aperture edge region of the aperture device, and preferably the aperture edge region essentially in a focal line or in a focal surface of the projection device.

The above wording, which describes a bundling of the light beams onto a focal point or a focal plane of the projection device, which lies in or approximately in the area of the diaphragm edge, describes a simplified representation for a punctiform Light source. In the case of the real, spatially extended light sources used (for example LED chip, for example with a 1 mm emission edge length), undesired light falls off, which strikes, for example, the boundary surface (and the area discussed above, through which light emerges) of the light-conducting body and is used according to the invention becomes.

For example, the light shaping optics are collimators or they include a collimator. It can also be provided that the light feed element, e.g. as part of the light shaping optics, includes deflecting means, e.g. one or more reflecting surfaces, preferably one or more surfaces, on which light is totally reflected, with which the light of the at least one light source is deflected in the desired direction.

The at least one light source can, for example, be arranged in the region of the optical axis of the optical body and have a main emission direction approximately in the direction of the optical axis. However, the at least one light source can also lie above or below the optical axis and light at an angle> 0 ° to the optical axis, e.g. radiate at 90 ° to the optical axis. With such an arrangement of the light sources, deflection means are advantageous.

For example, the light-shape optics are also designed so that they not only collect light at the focal point, but in such a way that light also aims vertically higher above the diaphragm edge. This allows the light distribution along the VV line to run out from the HV point down to just in front of the vehicle. In this way, the light-guiding bodies according to the invention form an apron light distribution.

It is preferably provided that the diaphragm edge region lies essentially in a focal line or in a focal surface of the projection device.

The focal line is preferably below the diaphragm edge (or the diaphragm edge is above the focal line) and runs horizontally through the focal point, as well as transversely, in particular perpendicularly to the optical axis of the projection device.

It can be provided that the diaphragm edge region comprises at least one diaphragm edge that extends essentially transversely to an optical axis of the projection device.

For example, the diaphragm edge is a single edge. However, there can also be a double edge, the edges then being able to be arranged one behind the other in the light exit direction. The edge or the edges can be as sharp as possible or rounded, for example. The diaphragm edge region can have the same normal distance to this horizontal plane everywhere with respect to a horizontal plane, for example a horizontal plane which contains the optical axis X (X, Y plane). However, it can also be provided that the diaphragm edge region has different (vertical) normal distances from the plane in different sections. For example, in a first section the diaphragm edge area can have a first normal distance from the plane and in a second section can have a second, larger normal distance. The different sections can be connected to one another by an inclined section. In this way, an asymmetrical light-dark boundary can be created.

With such light-conducting bodies, an asymmetry in the light-dark boundary can also be achieved in that the different areas of the diaphragm edge in the horizontal direction, i.e. in the direction of light propagation or in the direction of the optical axis, have different distances from a vertical plane normal to the optical axis.

For example, it is provided that the projection device is designed as a projection lens arrangement or comprises one, wherein, for example, the projection lens arrangement consists of a projection lens.

As described at the beginning, the projection device is designed to be inverting in the vertical direction. Preferably, the projection device is further configured such that light rays, which emanate from the same point in the intermediate light image but propagate in different directions, are viewed vertically at the same height in the light image by the projection device when viewed in the vertical direction.

Such an influence is preferably not provided in the horizontal direction, so that light which emerges from the projection device is generally deflected horizontally (depending on the direction of propagation before the exit).

It can be provided that an outer surface of the projection device is formed by a groove-shaped structure in a smooth base surface, the grooves forming the groove-shaped structure running in a substantially vertical direction, and preferably two grooves lying next to each other in the horizontal direction by one, in particular essentially vertically extending elevation, which preferably extends over the entire vertical extent of the grooves, are separated. In this way, the Signlight area can be specifically broadened in the horizontal direction.

For example, the projection device is a projection lens in the form of a cylindrical lens, i.e. the interface of the optic body has the shape of part of a jacket of a cylinder, with the height of the cylinder running parallel to the Y axis. For example, the height of this cylinder lies in the X, Z plane.

That is, in cuts in planes parallel to the X, Z plane, the projection lens has identical cutting lines (contours).

It is preferably provided that the light-guiding body and the projection device are formed in one piece. It is also advantageously provided that the light feed element is formed in one piece with the light-guiding body. In particular, it is preferably provided that the light feed element (s), the light-guiding body and the projection device are formed in one piece with one another, in particular are formed from a single light-guiding material and form a single body (“optic body”). Furthermore, the light-guiding element (s) according to the invention are formed in one piece with the described optical body, in particular from the same transparent, light-guiding material.

It is preferably provided that the area in which the light coming from the light guide element (s) according to the invention is partially or completely projected, extends in the light image in the vertical direction over a range of approximately 1 ° -6 °, preferably over a range of 1 , 5 ° - 4.5 ° above the 0 ° -0 ° (HH) line, the horizon.

Furthermore, as an alternative or in addition, it can be provided that the area in which the entrance light bundle or parts thereof are projected is in the light image in the horizontal direction over a range of approx. -24 ° - + 24 °, preferably of approx . -18 ° - + 18 ° or -10 ° - + 10 ° extends.

For example, it is provided that the at least one light source comprises a light-emitting diode or a plurality of light-emitting diodes.

• Fig. 1 die wesentlichen Bestandteile einer erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform einer Beleuchtungsvorrichtung für einen Kraftfahrzeugscheinwerfer in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,
• Fig. 2 eine weitere Beleuchtungsvorrichtung gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,
• Fig. 3 einen Vertikalschnitt A-A, welcher die optische Achse enthält, durch die Beleuchtungsvorrichtung aus Figur 1,
• Fig. 4 einen Vertikalschnitt B-B parallel durch eine Beleuchtungsvorrichtung aus Figur 1 in einem Bereich eines seitlichen Lichtleitelementes, und
• Fig. 5 eine beispielhafte, schematische Darstellung einer Lichtverteilung erzeugt mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Beleuchtungseinheit.

The invention is discussed in more detail below with reference to the drawing. In this shows

• Fig. 1 the essential components of an embodiment of a lighting device for a motor vehicle headlight according to the invention in a perspective view,
• Fig. 2 another lighting device according to the present invention in a perspective view,
• Fig. 3 a vertical section AA, which contains the optical axis, through the lighting device Figure 1 ,
• Fig. 4 a vertical section BB parallel through an illumination device Figure 1 in a region of a lateral light-guiding element, and
• Fig. 5 an exemplary, schematic representation of a light distribution generated with a lighting unit according to the invention.

Figure 1 shows a lighting device 1 for a motor vehicle headlight for generating a light distribution with a cut-off. The lighting device 1 comprises at least one light source 10, which for example comprises one or more LEDs, and an optical body 110 in which light from the at least one light source 10 can propagate.

In the example shown, the optic body 110 consists of a translucent body 100 which is formed in one piece with a light feed element 101 for feeding in light which the at least one light source 10 emits and in one piece with a projection device 500.

The optical body 110 is preferably a solid body, that is to say a body which has no through openings or opening inclusions. The transparent, translucent material from which the body 110 is formed has one Refractive index greater than that of air. The material contains, for example, PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) or PC (polycarbonate) and is particularly preferably formed therefrom. However, the body 110 can also be made from glass material, in particular inorganic glass material.

The optic body 110, specifically the translucent body 100, has a diaphragm device 103 with a diaphragm edge region 104, the diaphragm device 103 being arranged between the light feed element 101 and the projection device 500. The projection device 500 is designed to be inverting, as was already discussed at the beginning.

As shown, the diaphragm device 103 is formed, for example, by two boundary surfaces 105, 106 of the translucent body 100, which converge in the diaphragm edge region 104, in particular into a common diaphragm edge 104a.

The following is a description of the basic mode of operation of the lighting device 1 shown Figure 3 which shows a vertical section AA through the illumination device 1 along the optical axis X (the position of the section plane AA is in the small picture of FIG Figure 3 , which shows a view of the optics body from above, recognizable): Light from the at least one light source 10 is fed via the light feed element 101 into the translucent body 100, which propagates in the translucent body 100 as the first light bundle S1. The light feed element 101, which is designed, for example, as a collimator, is designed in such a way that it bundles the light from the at least one light source mainly in the diaphragm edge region 104. The diaphragm edge region 104 lies in a focal point or in a focal surface BF of the projection device 500.

The first light bundle S1 is modified by the diaphragm device 103 to a modified, second light bundle S2 such that this second light bundle S2 is imaged by the projection device 500 as a light distribution LV with a light-dark boundary HD (see Figure 5 , which shows an exemplary light distribution). The light-dark boundary HD, in particular the shape and position of the light-dark boundary HD, is determined by the diaphragm edge region 104, in particular the diaphragm edge 104a of the diaphragm device 103 certainly. The exemplary light distribution LV shown is a classic apron distribution.

Below the optical axis X is the optical axis of the optic body 110, e.g. to understand the center line of the optic body 110 in relation to the apex of the exit lens or projection device.

Figure 2 shows a lighting device 1, which is essentially identical to that Figure 1 is. The embodiment according to Figure 2 differs from that Figure 1 only in that a screen 400 is provided between the two surfaces 105, 106. Frequently, it cannot be avoided that light also strikes the boundary surface 105. This light can typically lead to undesired scattered light, which can be intercepted with this diaphragm 400. Alternatively, this screen can be attached as an absorbent layer on the outside of surface 105.

According to the invention, it is now provided that at least one light guide element 200, 300, specifically in the example shown, two light guide elements 200, 300 (the second light guide element 300 is in the view from Figure 1 however, the Figure 2 are removed) are provided on the optic body 110. Each of the light guide elements 200, 300 has a light guide element light coupling surface 201, 301 and a light guide element light coupling surface 202, 302. The light guide elements 200, 300 are arranged on the optical body 110 in such a way that light S3 from the light feed element 101 via the light guide element light coupling surface 201 , 301 is fed into the light-guiding elements 200, 300, as is shown in the vertical section plane BB according to Figure 4 is shown (the position of the section plane BB is in the small picture of the Figure 4 , which shows a view of the optic body from above, recognizable), propagates in it (light rays S4), in particular at least partially by means of total reflection, and re-enters the optic body 110 via the light-guiding element light decoupling surfaces 202, 302 (light rays S5).

In this case, the light-guiding element light decoupling surfaces 202, 302 open into the optic body 110 such that they are at least partially, preferably completely below the diaphragm edge region 104, viewed in the vertical direction Z, in particular below the diaphragm edge 104a and / or below the X, Y plane.

An upper edge 220a, 221a of the light-guiding element light decoupling surface 202, 302 is preferably at the same height as the diaphragm edge region 104 or the diaphragm edge 104a or, as shown in the figures, is preferably below.

In addition, the light-guiding elements 200, 300, viewed in the direction of the optical axis X of the optical body 110, each extend at least up to the diaphragm edge region 104 or the diaphragm edge 104a or beyond.

The light beams S5 originating from the light guide elements 200, 300 are finally projected by the projection device as a signlight light bundle SL into an area B of the light distribution above the light-dark boundary, and, for example as a signlight light distribution SV, are imaged in the light image.

No light is available through the diaphragm edge area 104 or the diaphragm device 103 in a lighting device according to the prior art, which light could be imaged as a signlight in an area above the H-H line. The invention makes it possible to guide light from the light feed-in area 101 with the light-guiding elements 200, 300 below the diaphragm edge area past the projection device 500. After these light beams S5 originate from an area of the focal plane of the projection device, which is substantially or completely below the X, Y plane, due to the position of the light-guiding element light coupling-out surfaces 201, 301, this light S5 is transmitted from the inverting projection device 500 into an area pictured above the HH line.

Optic body 110 and light-guiding elements 200, 300 are preferably formed in one piece with one another, and in particular from the same material. Such an embodiment has the advantage that at the point where the light-guiding-light coupling-out surface opens into the optic body, there is no interface at which the light from the light-guiding element could be deflected unintentionally. Light that "emerges" from the "light-guiding-element coupling-out surface" simply propagates in the optic body with the direction in which it comes from the light-guiding element.

In the same way, light from the light feed element enters the light guide element via the light guiding element light coupling surface without optical influence, since in the case of a one-piece design made of the same material there is no real interface.

In this respect, the light coupling-in surfaces and the light coupling-out surfaces do not represent any real surfaces, in particular no interfaces in which light is deflected.

As in the Figures 1 and 2nd It can be seen that, where the light-guiding element 200 (the same applies to the second light-guiding element 300, but this cannot be seen in the drawing), the light-guiding element 200 again opens into the optic body 110 in the region of the diaphragm edge 104a is widened upwards. This is connected with the fact that there could be a hole there with a light guide element 200 that continues to run in a straight line and through the converging surfaces 105, 106, which could be disadvantageous in terms of production technology. Correspondingly, an expansion of the light guide element (s) 200 can be provided there, but this has no visual impact.

The optic body 110 is delimited laterally opposite side delimitation surfaces 120, 121. Light propagating in the optic body 110 can be at least partially, preferably completely, reflected, in particular totally reflected, on the side boundary surfaces 120, 121. In the example shown, these side boundary surfaces 120, 121 are flat and diverge in the direction of the optical axis X of the optical body 110 (see small picture in FIG Figure 3 and Figure 4 ).

The light guide elements 200, 300 are arranged on the side boundary surfaces 120, 121. The light-guiding elements 200, 300 are preferably configured identically and run at the same height on the optic body 110, in particular they preferably run parallel to the optical axis X.

For example, the light guide elements, viewed in sections normal to the optical axis X, have rectangular or square cross sections.

In the specific embodiment according to Figure 1 it is provided that the two side boundary surfaces 120, 121, viewed in the direction of the optical axis X, are each divided into a rear boundary surface 120a, a central boundary surface 120b and a front boundary surface 120c, the central boundary surface 120b of each of the two side boundary surfaces 120, 121 in the horizontal direction Y, transversely springing back to the optical axis X opposite the rear and front boundary surface 120a, 120c, the respective side boundary surface 120, 121, that is to say recessed.

A light guide element 200, 300 is arranged in each case on this recessed, central side delimitation surface 120b and is preferably connected to it in one piece. The Light-guiding element 200, 300 extends in the direction of the optical axis X from the rear region of the optic body 110 delimited by the rear side delimitation surface 120a to the front region of the optic body 110 delimited by the front side delimitation surface 120c.

For example, the central boundary surface 120b extends approximately in the region of the light-conducting body 100, the rear boundary surface 120a extends, for example, at least partially over a region of the light feed element 101, and the front region 120c extends e.g. at least partially over the area of the projection device 500.

A light-guiding element 200, 300 thus forms a type of web, which is located on the recessed boundary surface 120b of the optic body 110, and is preferably formed in one piece with it.

As shown, a lateral, preferably flat outer surface 200a of each light-guiding element 200, 300 lies at the same height as the rear and front boundary surface 120a, 120c of the side boundary surface 120, 121 on which it is arranged.

Total reflection preferably occurs on the lateral, outer surface 200a, a top side 200b and a bottom side 200c of each light guide element 200, 300. Light can enter the light-guiding body, since there the light-guiding elements 200, 300 preferably directly adjoin the light-guiding body 100 or optic body 110, in particular formed integrally therewith from the same material, this light is intercepted by the diaphragm edge device 103 in the optic body.

Depending on the direction of propagation, light travels straight through a light guide element as it enters the light guide element or it is totally reflected at boundary surfaces 200a, 200b, 200c, which limit the light guide element to the outside, and propagates in this way to the projection device 500.

As described at the beginning, the projection device 500 is designed to be inverting in the vertical direction. Preferably, the projection device 500 is further configured such that, viewed in the vertical direction, light rays emanating from the same point in the intermediate light image (ie an image in the (preferably vertical, normal, normal to the optical axis X) focal plane of the projection device 200, in which preferably in about the aperture edge 104a), but propagate in different directions, are projected vertically at the same height in the photograph by the projection device.

Such an influence is preferably not provided in the horizontal direction, so that light which emerges from the projection device 500 is generally deflected horizontally (depending on the direction of propagation before the exit).

In general, the projection device 500 is e.g. formed as a projection lens arrangement or includes one. Specifically, the projection device 500 in the example shown comprises an interface (or it consists of such an interface) which limits the optics body 110 to the front, and via which interface the light propagating in the optics body, in particular the light beams S5, as a light distribution in an area are imaged in front of the optic body 110. In order to achieve a corresponding deflection by refraction of the light rays when exiting via the light exit surface as described, the latter is shaped accordingly, in particular curved. The interface is preferably configured convex. In the example shown, the interface is convexly curved in vertical sections, while in horizontal sections it runs straight parallel to the optical axis.

Furthermore, it can also be provided that an outer surface of the projection device 500 is formed by a groove-shaped structure in the smooth base surface, as shown in FIG Figure 1 is indicated, the grooves forming the groove-shaped structure running in a substantially vertical direction, and preferably two grooves lying next to each other in the horizontal direction by a, in particular essentially vertical, elevation which preferably extends over the entire vertical extent of the grooves, are separated. In this way, the Signlight area can be specifically broadened in the horizontal direction.

For example, the projection device 500 is a projection lens in the form of a cylindrical lens, ie the interface of the optical body which acts as a projection lens has the shape of part of a jacket of a cylinder, with the height of the cylinder running parallel to the Y axis. For example, the height of this cylinder lies in the X, Z plane.

That is, in cuts in planes parallel to the X, Z plane, the projection lens has identical cutting lines (contours).

The design according to Figure 2 differs from that Figure 1 only by the diaphragm 400, the diaphragm 400 being modified for the invention in that it has a recess 401 for each light-guiding element 200, 300, through which the light-guiding element 200, 300 is guided.

The Signlight light bundle SL ( Figure 4 ) is projected into an area B of the light distribution above the light-dark boundary, and, for example as a signlight light distribution SV, is imaged in the light image ( Figure 5 ).

The area B, in which the entrance light bundle S4 or parts thereof are projected, extends in the light image in the vertical direction over a range of approximately 1 ° -6 °, preferably as shown over a range of 1.5 ° - 4.5 ° above the HH line.

In the horizontal direction, area B typically extends over a range of approximately -10 ° to + 10 °, preferably over -8 ° to + 8 °.

Claims (15)

Lighting device (1) for a motor vehicle headlight for generating a light distribution with a cut-off line, the lighting device • at least one light source (10), A translucent body (100), • at least one light feed element (101) for feeding light, which emits the at least one light source (10), and • has a projection device (500), wherein the translucent body (100), the at least one light feed element (101) and the projection device (500) form an integral transparent, translucent optic body (110), preferably made of the same material,
wherein the translucent body (100) has a diaphragm device (103) with a diaphragm edge region (104), the diaphragm device (103) being arranged in the direction of light propagation between the light feed element (101) and the projection device (500), and wherein
Via the light feed element (101), light from the at least one light source (10) enters the translucent body (100), which propagates in the translucent body (100) as the first light bundle (S1), and the first of the diaphragm device (103) Light bundle (S1) is modified to a modified, second light bundle (S2) such that this second light bundle (S2) is imaged by the projection device (500) as light distribution (LV) with a light-dark boundary (HD), the The light-dark boundary (HD), in particular the shape and position of the light-dark boundary (HD), is determined by the diaphragm edge region (104) of the diaphragm device (103), and wherein
the projection device (500) is designed to be inverting in the vertical direction,
characterized in that
at least one light guide element (200, 300) is arranged on the optic body (110), which has at least one light guide element (200, 300) a light guide element light coupling surface (201, 301) and a light guide element light coupling surface (202, 302), and wherein at least one light guide element (200, 300) is arranged on the optical body (110) in such a way that light (S3) from the light feed element (101) via the light guide element light coupling surface (201, 301) into which at least one light guide element (200, 300) is fed, propagates in it, in particular at least partially by means of total reflection, and re-enters the optic body (110) via the light guide element light coupling surface (202, 302), whereby the light-guiding element light coupling-out surface (202, 302) of the at least one light-guiding element (200, 300) opens into the optic body (110) in such a way that the at least one light-guiding element light coupling-out surface (200, 300) seen at least partially in a vertical direction (Z), is preferably completely below the diaphragm edge area (104),
the at least one light guiding element (200, 300) or the light guiding elements (200, 300), viewed in the direction of an optical axis (X) of the optic body (110), in each case extending or beyond to the diaphragm edge region (104) . extend,
and wherein at least a part, preferably all, of the light rays (S5) that have re-entered the optic body (110) are projected by the projection optics device (200) as a signlight light bundle (SL) into an area (B) of the light distribution above the light-dark boundary , and, for example as a Signlight light distribution (SV), are shown in the photograph. Lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the optic body (110) and the at least one light-guiding element (200, 300) are formed in one piece with one another, and in particular from the same material. Illumination device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the side boundary surfaces (120, 121) lying laterally opposite one another from the optics body (110) is limited, light propagating in the optics body (110) preferably being reflected at least partially at the side boundary surfaces (120, 121), in particular totally reflected, and wherein at least one light guiding element (200, 300) is arranged on at least one side delimitation surface (120, 121), preferably at least one light guiding element (200, 300) on each of the two side delimitation surfaces (120, 121), preferably precisely in each case a light guide element (200, 300) is arranged. Lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the at least one light guide element (200, 300) or the light guide elements (200, 300) in the Runs or run essentially parallel to an optical axis (X) of the optical body (110). Lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the at least one light-guiding element (200, 300) or the light-guiding elements (200, 300) have a rectangular or square cross-section or rectangular or square cross-sections, preferably in the case of a plurality of light-guiding elements ( 200, 300) all have identical cross sections, and / or preferably the cross section of a light guide element (200, 300) remains the same over its entire longitudinal extent. Lighting device according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that with one light guide element (200, 300) per side boundary surface (120, 121), the light guide elements (200, 300) run at the same height in the vertical direction. Lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the at least one light-guiding element (200, 300) or the light-guiding elements (200, 300) has or have a straight course. Lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that at least one of the light guide elements (200, 300) of a side boundary surface (120, 121) is arranged such that the light guide element light coupling surface (202, 302) below the diaphragm edge region (104) or below an aperture edge (104a) lying in the aperture edge region (104) opens into the optic body (110), or that at least one of the light-guiding elements (200, 300) of a side delimitation surface (120, 121) is arranged in such a way that an upper edge (220a, 221a ) of the light-guiding element light decoupling surface (202, 302) at the same height as the diaphragm edge area (104) or a diaphragm edge (104a) lying in the diaphragm edge area (104a) opens into the optic body (110). Lighting device according to one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that at least one of the side boundary surfaces (120, 121), preferably both side boundary surfaces, viewed in the direction of the optical axis (X) in each case in a rear boundary surface (120a), a central boundary surface (120b ) and a front boundary surface (120c) are subdivided, the central boundary surface (120b) of one or the two side boundary surface (s) (120, 121) in the horizontal direction (Y), recessed transversely to the optical axis (X) opposite the rear and front boundary surface (120a, 120c) of the respective side boundary surface (120, 121), that is to say recessed, and the at least one light-guiding element (200, 300) on the central side boundary surface (120b ) is arranged, and is preferably connected to it in one piece, and extends from the rear area of the optical body delimited by the rear side delimitation surface (120a) to the front area delimited by the front side delimitation surface (120c). Lighting device according to claim 9, characterized in that a lateral, preferably flat outer surface (200a) of the at least one light guide element (200, 300) at the same height as the rear and / or front boundary surface (120a, 120c) of the side boundary surface (120, 121) on which it is located. Lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the diaphragm device (103) is formed by boundary surfaces (105, 106) of the translucent body (100) which, for example, in a common diaphragm edge (104a) which in the diaphragm edge region (104) lies, converge, preferably outside the optic body (100), between the boundary surfaces (105, 106) a physical screen (300) and / or on the outside of at least one of the two boundary surfaces (105, 106), preferably that boundary surface (105) , which is arranged in the light propagation direction in front of the other boundary surface (106), a coating or a physical diaphragm is applied, by means of which light emerging from the light-guiding body (100) can be intercepted. Lighting device according to claim 11, characterized in that the physical screen (400) and / or the coating for each light-guiding element (200, 300) has a recess (401) through which the light-guiding element (200, 300) runs, so that light can move freely from the physical aperture (400) and / or the coating can propagate. Illumination device according to one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the light feed element (101) comprises a light-shaping optic which shapes the light (S1) emitted by the at least one light source (10) in such a way that it essentially extends into the diaphragm edge region ( 104) of the diaphragm device (103) is radiated, and preferably the diaphragm edge region (104) lies essentially in a focal line or in a focal surface (FB) of the projection device (500). Illumination device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that an outer surface of the projection device (500) is formed by a groove-shaped structure in a smooth base surface, the grooves forming the groove-shaped structure running in a substantially vertical direction, and preferably two each Grooves lying next to one another in the horizontal direction are separated by an elevation, in particular an essentially vertical one, which preferably extends over the entire vertical extent of the grooves. Motor vehicle headlight with at least one lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 14.

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