WO2024023300A1 - Light module for a vehicle lighting device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a motor vehicle light module configured so as to emit a first light function and a second light function non-simultaneously, and comprising - a projection optical element (44) formed of a plurality of projection optical systems (6, 23, 25; 6', 23'), - a plurality of light units (11a, 11b, 11b', 11c), each light unit comprising: - at least one light assembly (12, 13, 20, 20b, 24), and - a projection system belonging to said plurality of projection optical systems and receiving the light rays emitted by the light assembly or assemblies of the corresponding light unit, the light units being arranged such that each projection system of said projection optical element (44) is illuminated when the first light function is emitted and when the second light function is emitted.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Title of the invention: Light module for a vehicle lighting device

The present invention relates to the field of automobile vehicle lighting devices, and more particularly concerns a light module capable of being integrated into such lighting devices.

The field of lighting for motor vehicles is subject to regulations which require that each motor vehicle be capable of carrying out lighting functions respecting specific safety standards. More particularly, the motor vehicle is equipped with one or more light modules dedicated to carrying out each of these functions with within each of these modules, at least one light source which is powered to emit light rays, and at least an optical projection system, such as a lens or a mirror, configured to form a light beam for lighting or regulatory signaling from the light rays emitted by the light source.

For reasons of space in particular, it is desired to equip a motor vehicle with a headlight within which one or more light modules are capable of generating several light functions, and in particular two different lighting functions including a lighting function. low beam and a high beam function.

Low beam headlights allow a motor vehicle to be seen by other users and its driver to properly see the roadway up to 30 meters away, without dazzling users present on the road. The high beams emit light beams with a greater range so that the driver of the motor vehicle can see the road properly, at least 100 meters away at night.

Low beam headlights are generated by a projection of a light beam formed on the basis of light rays emitted by light sources specifically dedicated to the formation of these low beam headlights.

The main beam consists of a light function distinct from the light function formed by the dipped headlights. In fact, the light module highlights works one or the other of the functions, but never both functions simultaneously.

The high beams can be independent of the low beams, being generated by a projection of a light beam formed on the basis of light rays emitted by light sources specifically dedicated to the formation of these high beams, or they can be generated by a projection of a light beam complementary to that making it possible to form the dipped headlights, this complementary light beam being formed on the basis of light rays emitted by light sources arranged in a manner complementary to the light sources specifically dedicated to the formation low beam headlights.

The means allowing the implementation of low beam and main beam headlights can be grouped together in the same light module placed on the front of a motor vehicle, in particular to facilitate the creation of optical continuity when passing the headlights. crossing with high beams.

It is thus known to provide within such a light module several light units comprising at least one light source and a collector for shaping the light rays emitted by the light source, and an optical projection system making it possible to project the beam light shaped by the collector. The light units thus make it possible to carry out one or other of the lighting functions.

However, such a configuration has the drawback of causing differences in light signatures between the light functions emitted, that is to say that the light emitted by each light function does not exit the light module through the same zones. For example, the optical projection systems of the light module are not always illuminated by each of the light functions. Thus, it may happen that when one of the light functions is emitted, for example the low beam function, one of the projection systems is not illuminated, and remains dark, while when the other light function is emitted , for example the high beam function, this projection system is illuminated.

The present invention fits into this context and aims at a light module which makes it possible to generate two distinct light functions and makes it possible to generate a uniform light signature between the two distinct light functions.

More particularly, the light module according to the invention is a motor vehicle light module configured so as to emit a first light function and a second light function non-simultaneously, and comprising

- an optical projection element formed of a plurality of optical projection systems

- a plurality of light units, each light unit comprising:

- at least one light assembly, and

- an optical projection system belonging to said plurality of optical projection systems and receiving the light rays emitted by the light assembly(s) of the corresponding light unit, the light units being arranged so that each optical projection system of said element projection optics is illuminated when the first light function is emitted, and when the second light function is emitted.

According to the invention, a light module is thus provided configured to generate two distinct light functions whose output surface is illuminated in an equivalent manner regardless of the light function implemented.

It should be understood that according to the invention, each of the optical projection systems participating in forming by juxtaposition next to each other the optical projection element, is illuminated when the first light function is emitted, and that this lighting is carried out only by the first light function. And that in a similar manner, each optical projection system is illuminated when the second light function is emitted, and that this lighting is achieved solely by the second light function. If necessary, the second light function can be achieved by the implementation of lighting means complementary to those implemented to achieve the first light function.

In particular, each of the optical projection systems can be fully illuminated when the first light function is emitted, and when the second light function is emitted. By integrality, we can in particular define the fact that at least 90% of the optical surface of the optical projection system is illuminated by light rays when the first light function is emitted, and respectively when the second light function is emitted.

Thus, advantageously, according to the invention, the light module is devoid of ambient light source, which would only have the function of illuminating one or more optical projection systems of the optical projection element without participating in the one and/or the other of the first and second light functions, and which would be used to artificially fill an area of an unilluminated optical projection system when the first light function and/or when the second light function is emitted.

Each light assembly includes at least one light source which is activated when the or one of the light functions in which it participates is implemented. Where appropriate, the light assembly also includes an optical device comprising, for example, a collector with a reflective surface.

The light source emits a plurality of light rays mainly towards the optical device and its reflective surface. In particular, the optical device may have a shape of revolution, elliptical or parabolic, centered on the optical axis of the optical projection system, in order to reflect the light rays in the direction of the optical projection system, regardless of the point incidence of the light ray on the reflecting surface.

The reflected light rays then propagate in a light beam to the optical projection system in a mainly longitudinal direction of propagation, parallel to the direction of the optical axis of the optical projection system. The latter projects the light beam onto the road scene forming or helping to form a light beam projected onto the road.

The light module according to the invention can take several configurations which all implement the characteristics previously mentioned according to which the light units are arranged so that each optical projection system of said optical projection element is illuminated when the first light function is emitted, and respectively, when the second light function is emitted. According to one characteristic of the invention, a partition is placed between two neighboring light units. This partition forms a separation wall for the light rays, so that the light rays emitted by one of the two light units do not reach the other of the two light units, and in particular do not reach the optical projection system on the other of the two light units, and vice versa. Each partition extends along the main axis of propagation of the rays between the two neighboring light units, from the light assemblies of each of these units to the optical projection element.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the optical projection system of each light unit is formed by a projection mirror.

According to an alternative characteristic of the invention, the optical projection system of each light unit is formed by a projection lens. In particular, the projection lenses are juxtaposed and form an optical projection unit, said optical projection unit forming the optical projection element. This projection optical unit can be transparent and one-piece.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the optical projection unit has, opposite the light assemblies, a continuous and smooth output face, formed by the continuity of the external faces of the projection lenses. In the application, “smooth” means a zone that can be derivated at any point, in other words a zone without a protruding or re-entrant edge. A portion is smooth when all the points forming it obey this definition.

The optical projection unit also has an entrance face facing the light assemblies, and formed successively by the internal faces of the projection lenses. This entrance face is continuous. Where applicable, the entrance face includes successive undulations corresponding to the internal faces of the projection lenses.

According to a first variant of a first embodiment, the motor vehicle light module is particular in that the plurality of light units comprises a first light unit and an additional light unit, the at least one light assembly of the first light unit comprising:

- a first light assembly formed of at least one first light source and a first optical device arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first light source and to form, from these light rays, a first light beam,

- a second light assembly formed of at least a second light source and a second optical device arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second light source and to form from these light rays, a second light beam, and the optical projection system of the first light unit, called first optical projection system, being arranged to project the first light beam into a first projected beam and the second light beam into a second projected beam; the at least one light assembly of the additional light unit, comprising:

- a first additional light assembly formed of at least a first additional light source and a first additional optical device arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first additional light source and to form, from these light rays, a first beam additional light, and the optical projection system of the additional light unit, called additional optical projection system, being arranged to project the first additional light beam into a first projected additional beam, the combination of the first projected beam and the first additional beam projected forming the first light function, and the combination of the first projected beam, the first additional projected beam and the second projected beam, forming the second light function.

This first variant of the first embodiment aims in particular to cover light modules in which the second light function is not obtained independently of the first light function, but by complementarity of the first beam(s) contributing to the first light function. with at least a second beam, which takes in the second light function a form complementary to that of the first beams. As a result, the means implemented to contribute to the achievement of the first light function remain active when the means implemented specifically to contribute to the achievement of the second function light are active. When within the first light unit or the additional light unit, the means implemented to contribute to the realization of the first light function are active, the optical projection system associated with this unit is illuminated, and the implementation additional implementation of means specific to the realization of the second luminous function of course allows this lighting to be preserved. If necessary, the additional implementation of means specific to the realization of the second light function makes it possible to increase the surface area of the illuminated surface of the optical projection system. For example, the illuminated area can be extended beyond the value of 90% previously discussed as an arbitrary threshold value for the definition of completeness.

It is notable that in this first embodiment, the fact that the means specific to carrying out the second lighting function, that is to say the means which are solely dedicated to this purpose, are not put into effect. work does not prevent lighting of the optical projection system.

In other words, in this first variant of the first embodiment, each light unit which comprises a light assembly participating in generating a second light beam in the direction of the optical projection system forming part of this light unit also comprises a light assembly participating to generate a first light beam in the direction of this optical projection system.

According to a second variant of the first embodiment, the additional light unit further comprises a second additional light assembly formed of at least a second additional light source and a second additional optical device arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second additional light source and to form from these light rays a second additional light beam, and the optical projection system of the additional light unit, called additional optical projection system being arranged to project the second additional light beam into a second additional projected beam, the second additional projected beam being combined with the combination of the first projected beam, the first additional projected beam and the second projected beam, to form the second light function.

In this second alternative embodiment of the first embodiment, the second light function is not obtained independently of the first light function, but by complementarity of the first beam(s) contributing to the first light function with at least a second beam, which takes in the second light function a form complementary to that of the first beams. The operation of the first embodiment described above therefore applies well.

According to a second embodiment, the motor vehicle light module is particular in that the plurality of light units comprises a first light unit and an additional light unit, the at least one light assembly of the first light unit comprising:

- a first light assembly formed of at least a first light source and a first optical device arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first light source and to form, from these light rays, a first light beam,

- a second light assembly formed of at least a second light source and a second optical device arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second light source and to form from these light rays, a second light beam, and the optical projection system of the first light unit, called first optical projection system, being arranged to project the first light beam into a first projected beam and the second light beam into a second projected beam; the at least one light assembly of the additional light unit, comprising:

- a first additional light assembly formed of at least a first additional light source and a first additional optical device arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first additional light source and to form, from these light rays, a first beam additional light,

- a second additional light assembly formed of at least one second additional light source and a second additional optical device arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second additional light source and to form from these light rays, a second additional light beam, and the optical projection system of the additional light unit, called additional optical projection system, being arranged to project the first additional light beam into a first additional projected beam, and the second additional light beam into a second additional projected beam, the combination of the first projected light beam and the first additional projected light beam forming the first light function, and the combination of the second projected beam and the second additional projected beam forming the second light function.

This second embodiment aims in particular to cover light modules in which for each optical projection system, means distinct from each other are implemented to contribute to the realization of a first light function and to the on the other hand, realization of a second light function, the means implemented to contribute to the realization of the second light function being deactivated when the means implemented to contribute to the realization of the first light function are active, and vice versa .

When within the first light unit or the additional light unit, the means implemented to contribute to the realization of the first light function are active, the optical projection system associated with this light unit is illuminated, and when alternatively, it is the means implemented to contribute to the realization of the second light function which are active, the optical projection system associated with this light unit is also illuminated, but without it being necessary to contribute other means than those associated with this second light function.

It should be noted that for each embodiment, the number of additional light units could vary without departing from the context of the invention, so that the light module according to the invention could comprise at least three light units each equipped with a light assembly and a projection optical system forming part of the projection optical element.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the light rays emitted by the light assembly(s) of a light unit are projected solely by the optical projection system of said light unit.

According to different characteristics of the invention, the light sources of a light unit can be arranged on the same support. For example, this support may consist of a printed circuit board. The light sources of all light units can be arranged on the same support.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the light module comprises a printed circuit board carrying all the light sources. The printed circuit board is configured to allow the operation of the light sources to be controlled, for example following a manual command activated by a user of the vehicle, and to turn on or off one or the other of the light sources by result. Using only one printed circuit board for all light sources simplifies assembly and the resulting problem of mounting clearances and position tolerances from one light source to another.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the printed circuit board has an inclination of between 5 ⁰ and 15 ⁰ relative to a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction. The light sources arranged closer to the optical projection system are then higher than the light sources arranged further from the optical projection system. Such an inclination allows the positioning of the light sources more opposite their respective optical device. This then generates a reflection of a greater number of light rays and thus improves the intensity of the light beams leaving the transparent optical part.

According to a characteristic of the invention, each optical device, respectively each additional optical device of a light assembly comprises at least one collector comprising a reflective surface arranged to collect and reflect the light rays emitted by the light source, respectively by the light source additional of the luminous assembly, the light rays reflected by the reflective surface of the collector and forming one of the light beams, respectively one of the additional light beams, being directed towards the optical projection system of the light unit comprising the light assembly.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the optical projection system of each light unit is arranged to form an image of the reflective surface of at least one collector of the light unit to generate at least one of the first and second projected beams, respectively of the first additional projected beam or of at least one of the first and second additional projected beams.

According to one characteristic of the invention, said at least one collector comprises the collector of the first optical device and/or the collector of the first additional optical device, and the collector of the first optical device and/or the collector of the first additional optical device have a rear end edge arranged in the vicinity of an optical focus of the optical projection system of the first light unit, respectively of the optical projection system of the additional light unit.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the optical focus of the optical projection system of the first light unit, respectively of the optical projection system of the additional light unit, is arranged at a distance less than or equal to 10 mm from the edge of rear end of the collector of the first optical device, respectively of the collector of the first additional optical device.

Within a first light unit or an additional light unit, the positioning of the optical focus of the optical projection system of the light unit relative to the first optical device and more particularly opposite a rear end edge of the reflecting surface of the collector of the first optical device, and where appropriate at a distance less than lomm, makes it possible to ensure the formation of a first light beam at the sharp cutting edge, by imaging this rear end edge forming the upper part of the beam projected onto the road.

According to a characteristic of the invention, within a first light unit and/or respectively an additional light unit, the optical device(s) of the first light set, respectively of the first set additional light, are offset longitudinally relative to the optical device(s) of the second light assembly, respectively of the second additional light assembly, the optical focus of the optical projection system being arranged longitudinally between the rear end edge of the collector(s) of the first assembly light, respectively from the collector(s) of the first additional light assembly, and the collector(s) of the second light assembly, respectively the collector(s) of the second additional light assembly.

According to a characteristic of the invention, within a first light unit, and/or respectively an additional light unit, the optical focus of the optical projection system is arranged longitudinally between the rear end edge of the device(s). optics of the first light assembly, respectively of the first additional light assembly, and the rear edge of the optical device(s) of the second light assembly, respectively of the second additional light assembly.

According to a characteristic of the invention, in order to avoid within a first light unit or an additional light unit that the optical device arranged longitudinally closest to the optical projection system does not hinder the propagation of the light rays deflected by another optical device up to the optical projection system, the optical device furthest from the optical projection system in the longitudinal direction is also offset at least in the vertical direction, in particular being closer to the printed circuit board than is the other optical device.

According to a characteristic of the invention, within a first light unit, and/or respectively an additional light unit, the optical device(s) of the first light assembly, respectively of the first additional light assembly are offset relative to the or to the optical devices of the second light assembly, respectively of the second additional light assembly, in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the optical axis of the optical projection system.

According to a characteristic of the invention, within a first light unit and/or respectively an additional light unit, the optical devices of a light assembly are offset transversely, that is to say in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, relative to the optical devices of another light assembly. And optical devices of the first light assembly, respectively of the first additional light assembly, can be arranged on either side of the optical device(s) of the second light assembly, respectively of the second additional light assembly, in said transverse direction.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the collector(s) of the first light assembly of the first light unit and/or respectively the collector(s) of the first additional light assembly of the additional light unit are offset relative to the collector(s) of the second light assembly of the first light unit, respectively relative to the collector(s) of the second additional light assembly of the additional light unit, in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the optical axis of the projection lens of the first unit light, respectively of the additional light unit.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the first light function can for example be a regulatory low beam function or only part of a regulatory low beam function. In the latter case, we can have one or more other modules in the vehicle which complement the first light function to form a regulatory low beam light.

According to one characteristic of the invention, the first light assembly is configured so that the first projected beam and/or the first additional projected beam has an upper cut-off edge formed by imaging the rear end edge of the corresponding optical device .

According to one characteristic of the invention, the second light function can for example be a regulatory high beam function or only part of a regulatory high beam function. Analogous to what has just been described, in the latter case, we can have one or more other modules in the vehicle which complement the second light function to form a regulatory high beam. In a first example corresponding to the first embodiment, the high beam function can be achieved by complementing the low beam function. In this case, the light sources associated with the realization of the low beam function also participate in the realization of the high beam function. In particular, only the combination of the first projected beam and the first projected additional beam forms the low beam function, and the combination of the first projected beam, the first projected additional beam, the second projected beam and, where appropriate, the second additional beam projected forms the high beam function. In this example, the second projected beam, and where appropriate the second additional projected beam, forms a complementary high beam.

In a second example corresponding to the second embodiment, the high beam function can be performed independently of the low beam function. In this case, when the light sources associated with carrying out the high beam function are activated, the light sources associated with carrying out the low beam function are deactivated. In particular, only the combination of the first projected beam and the first projected additional beam forms the low beam function, and only the combination of the second projected beam and, where applicable, the second additional projected beam forms the high beam function .Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear further through the description which follows on the one hand, and from several examples of embodiment given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the appended schematic drawings on the other hand, on which: [fig i] is a representation of a light module according to the invention in which the optical projection element is formed by the juxtaposition of a plurality of projection lenses,

| fig 2] is a representation of a light module according to the invention in which the optical projection element is formed by the juxtaposition of a plurality of projection mirrors,

[fig 3] represents the light module of Figure 1 according to a first embodiment, in perspective view making visible a transparent projection optical block formed from the plurality of juxtaposed projection lenses, a card of printed circuit and a plurality of collectors each forming an optical device associated with light sources not visible here and fixed on the printed circuit board,

[fig 4] represents a top view of the light module of Figure 3,

[fig 5] represents a view similar to that of Figure 3, and illustrates the light module of Figure 1 according to a variant of the first embodiment, and according to a second embodiment,

[fig 6] represents a top view of the light module of Figure 5,

[fig 7] represents a variant embodiment of the first embodiment of the light module according to the invention,

[fig 8] represents a sectional view of one of the light units fitted to a light module according to the invention.

Figure 1 is a general view of a light module 10 according to the invention. The light module 10 can for example be integrated into a motor vehicle, for example in a headlight of the motor vehicle, in order to fulfill at least one lighting function during a driving phase of said vehicle. As such, the light module 10 can in particular be arranged at the front of the vehicle.

The light module 10 is housed in a mask 2. The light module 10 is configured to provide a plurality of lighting functions or at the very least to contribute to the emission on the road scene of a plurality of lighting functions. The light module 10 ensures the emission and propagation of light beams until they pass through an optical projection element 44.

In the example of Figure 1, the optical projection element 44 is formed of an optical projection unit 4 which closes the mask 2. The optical projection unit 4 is formed of a plurality of projection lenses 6, 23.

As will be described in detail below, the light module 10 comprises a plurality of light units ensuring or contributing to the emission by the light module 10 of at least two light functions, and more particularly of at least two lighting functions. The optical projection unit 4 is divided into several portions 4a, 4b. In the example of Figure 1, each light unit of the light module 10 comprises a projection lens 6, 23. Each portion 4a, 4b of the optical projection unit 4 is then formed by the projection lens 6, 23 of a light unit of the light module.

Alternatively, as illustrated in the example of Figure 2, the optical projection element 44 can be formed by a plurality of projection mirrors 6', 23'.

In this example, each light unit of the light module 10 includes a projection mirror 6', 23' in place of the projection lens. The optical projection element 44 of the light module is then formed by all the projection mirrors 6', 23'.

The mask 2 is configured to at least partially accommodate the light module 10 according to the invention. This mask 2 has an opening 7 which covers the optical projection element 44, and the light module 10 is configured to direct the light rays emitted in the direction of this opening 7. The light rays are then either transmitted by the optical block of projection 4, or reflected by the projection mirrors 6', 23'.

In the remainder of the description, the light module according to the invention is described on the basis of the light module shown in Figure 1, that is to say on the basis of a light module comprising an optical projection unit 4 as optical projection element 44. It is understood that the following description applies identically to a light module comprising a plurality of projection mirrors to form the optical projection element 44. In particular, all the characteristics described in reference to Figures 3 to 8 apply identically to the light module of Figure 2, with the difference that the characteristics described for projection lenses apply to projection mirrors.

The light module according to the invention is configured to emit a first light function and a second light function non-simultaneously. The first light function can for example be a regulatory low beam function and the second light function can for example be a regulatory high beam function. Light units are configured within the light module to ensure or contribute to the emission of this first light function and this second light function.

According to the invention, the light units are arranged so that each optical projection system of the optical projection assembly is illuminated on the one hand when the first light function is emitted, and on the other hand when the second function light is emitted.

Figures 3 and 4 represent the light module of Figure 1 in which the mask 2 has been removed, in a first variant of a first embodiment.

The light module of this first embodiment comprises a first light unit 11a, and an additional light unit 11b.

The first light unit 11a comprises a first light assembly 12, a second light assembly 13, and a first optical projection system formed by a first projection lens 6, it being understood that it could be formed by a first projection mirror 6' . The first projection lens 6 receives the light rays emitted by the first and second light assemblies 12, 13. As described above, the first projection lens 6 is integrated into the projection optical unit 4 and corresponds to the first portion 4a of the optical projection unit 4.

Each light assembly 12, 13 of the first light unit 11a comprises a light source and a collector forming an optical device. In addition, each of the light assemblies 12, 13 provides at least in part a light function of its own within the first light unit 11a. This first light unit 11a can thus contribute to generating a plurality of light functions in the most compact manner possible.

More particularly, the first light assembly 12 of the first light unit 11a comprises first light sources 26, visible in dotted lines in Figure 4, and a first optical device 15, while the second light assembly 13 comprises a second light source 27, also visible in dotted lines in Figure 4, and a second optical device 16. The first and second light sources 26, 27 are connected to at least one printed circuit board 14. Each of the optical devices 15, 16 has the function of collecting and reflecting the light rays emitted by its own light source. The first optical device 15 thus forms a first light beam from the light rays emitted by the first light sources 26, and the second optical device 16 thus forms a second light beam from the light rays emitted by the second light source 27 As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first optical device 15 and the second optical device 16 have an offset relative to each other, at least in the longitudinal direction L, with the second optical device 16 which is arranged at the rear of the first optical device 15. In other words, a distance between the first projection lens 6 and the second optical device 16 is therefore greater than a distance between the first projection lens 6 and the first optical device 15. The advantage of such a positioning of the optical devices will be described in particular with reference to the sectional view of Figure 8 for example, but it should be noted that such a positioning is not limiting of the invention, since each light assembly within the first light unit 11a is able to illuminate the first projection lens 6 in turn.

In the example illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the first optical device 15 is divided into a first collector 18 comprising a reflective surface and a second collector 19 comprising a reflective surface. The first and second collectors 18, 19 are offset relative to each other in a transverse direction T, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. The first and second collectors 18, 19 form the first optical device 15. The reflective surfaces both collect and reflect light rays emitted by the first light sources 26 to generate the first light beam.

The second optical device 16 comprises a single collector comprising a reflective surface. The reflective surface of the collector collects and reflects the light rays emitted by the second light source 27 to generate the second light beam.

In order to project the first and second light beams, the first projection lens 6 of the first light unit 11a is arranged facing all of the collectors of the first and second optical devices 15, 16 of the first light unit 11a.

The arrangement of the light assemblies illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, and in particular, the shape of the first and second optical devices 15, 16 is not limiting to the invention. The light module could include optical devices with more or fewer collectors, or collectors arranged differently without departing from the scope of the invention.

The first projection lens 6 is arranged so as to face the light rays emitted by the first light assembly 12 and by the second light assembly 13. The projection lens 6 has an optical axis 17 extending in a longitudinal direction L The first projection lens 6 makes it possible to project the first light beam resulting from the first light assembly 12 into a first projected light beam, and the second light beams resulting from the second light assembly 13 into a second projected light beam.

The first projection lens 6 has an external face 61, facing away from the light assemblies 12, 13, which contributes to forming an exit face 41 of the optical projection unit 4 through which the projected beams ensure or contribute to ensuring a light function, and an internal face 60, through which the light rays enter the first projection lens 6.

The first and second projected light beams exit the first light unit 11a via the external face 61 of the projection lens 6.

These first and second projected light beams emerge from the first projection lens 6, depending on the activation of one and/or the other of the light assemblies 12, 13, illuminating the first projection lens 6.

The additional light unit 11b comprises an additional light assembly 24 provided with an additional light source 240, an additional optical device 241, and an additional optical projection system formed by an additional projection lens 23, it being understood that it could be formed by an additional projection mirror 23'. The additional projection lens 23 receives the light rays emitted by the additional light assembly 24. As described above, the additional projection lens 23 is integrated into the block projection optics 4 and corresponds to the second portion 4b of the projection optics unit 4.

The additional light source is positioned on the same printed circuit board 14 as the first and second sources 26, 27.

The first additional optical device 241 takes the form of a single collector. The additional optical device 241 could include several collectors without departing from the scope of the invention.

The first additional optical device 241 is arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first additional light source 240 and to form, from these light rays, a first additional light beam. This first additional light beam is directed towards the additional projection lens 23. This additional projection lens 23 is configured to transform this first additional light beam into a first additional projected light beam.

The additional projection lens 23 is configured to present an optical axis 17' extending in a longitudinal direction L.

The additional projection lens 23 has an external face 231, facing opposite the single additional light assembly 24, which participates in forming the output face 41 previously mentioned of the optical projection unit 4 through which the first additional light beam projected ensures or contributes to ensuring the first luminous function, and an internal face 230, through which the light rays enter the additional projection lens 23.

The additional projection lens 23 of the additional light unit 11b makes it possible to project a first additional light beam projected from the first additional light beam. The first additional projected light beam exits the first additional light unit 11b via the external face 231 of the additional projection lens 23.

As shown in Figure 4, a partition 50 is arranged substantially longitudinally, that is to say substantially parallel to the direction of the light beams in the direction of the optical projection unit 4, between the first light unit 11a and the unit additional light 11b which are neighboring. There partition 50 is configured to form a separation wall of the two light units 11a, 11b, in order to avoid the unwanted passage of light rays from one neighboring light unit to the other. The partition 50 extends here from the light assemblies of each of these units to the optical projection unit 4.

The optical projection unit 4 is formed from the juxtaposition of the first projection lens 6 and the additional projection lens 23. It is notable that the transparent optical part 4 has a continuous and smooth exit face 41, formed by the continuity of the external face 60 of the first projection lens 6 and of the external face 230 of the additional projection lens 23, and an entrance face 40 also continuous, but here with distinct successive profiles, formed successively by the internal face 60 of the first projection lens 6 and by the internal face 230 of the additional projection lens 23.

In this first embodiment, the realization of the first light function is obtained by the combination of the first projected light beam and the first additional projected light beam, and the realization of the second light function is obtained by the combination of the first projected light beam and the first additional light beam projected with the second projected light beam. In this first embodiment, the second projected light beam does not make it possible to carry out the second light function without the contribution of the first projected light beams used to carry out the first light function. The second projected light beam has an effect complementary to that of the first light beam and additional light beam projected to form the second light function.

It follows from the above that the light units of this first embodiment of a light module according to the invention are arranged so that the two projection lenses forming the optical projection unit 4, here the first lens of projection 6 and the additional projection lens 23, are illuminated as well:

- when on the one hand the first light function is emitted, by the combination of the first projected light beam emerging from the first projection lens 6 and the first additional projected light beam exiting from the additional projection lens 23, - and when on the other hand the second light function is emitted, by the combination of the first projected light beam and the second projected light beam emerging from the first projection lens 6 and the first additional projected light beam exiting from the additional projection lens 23.

It will be noted that if the light module comprised a first projection mirror 6' in place of the first projection lens 6, and an additional projection mirror 23' in place of the additional projection lens 23, then the surface of the first projection mirror 6' and the surface of the additional projection mirror 23' would both be illuminated both during the emission of the first light function, and during the emission of the second light function.

A second alternative embodiment of the first embodiment is illustrated in Figures 5 and 6. In this second alternative embodiment of the first embodiment, the light module comprises a first light unit 11a identical to the first light unit 11a of the first variant of the first embodiment, and an additional light unit 11b' which differs from the additional light unit 11b of the first variant of the first embodiment.

As the first light unit 11a shown in Figures 5 and 6 is identical to that shown in Figures 3 and 4, the description of the first light unit 11a made above with reference to Figures 3 and 4 applies to the first light unit 11a of Figures 5 and 6 and will not be repeated.

The additional light unit 11b' differs from the additional light unit 11b of Figures 3 and 4 in that it comprises a first additional light assembly 20 and a second additional light assembly 20b in place of the single additional light assembly 24 The other characteristics of the light module are identical. Thus, just like the additional light unit 11b, the additional light unit 11b' includes the additional projection lens 23 as a projection system, it being understood that this additional projection lens could be replaced by the additional projection mirror 23'. The light module also includes a partition 50 arranged substantially longitudinally between the first light unit lia and the additional light unit nb', to form a wall separating the two light units na, nb', in order to avoid the unwanted passage of light rays from a neighboring light unit to the 'other.

The first additional light assembly 20 comprises first additional light sources 22 and a first additional optical device 21 arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first additional light sources 22 and to form, from these light rays, a first additional light beam.

The second additional light assembly 20b comprises second additional light sources 22b and a second additional optical device 21b arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second additional light sources 22b and to form from these light rays a second additional light beam.

The first additional light sources 22 and the second additional light sources 22b are arranged on the same printed circuit board 14 as the first and second light sources 26, 27 of the first light unit 11a.

The first and second additional light beams are directed towards the additional projection lens 23, corresponding to the second portion 4b of the optical projection unit 4. This additional projection lens 23 is arranged facing the components of the first additional light assembly 20 and the second additional light assembly 20b.

In the example illustrated, the first additional optical device 20 and the second additional optical device 21b each comprise several collectors. The collectors forming the second additional optical device 21b are offset longitudinally and transversely relative to the collectors forming the first additional optical device 21 so as not to hinder the propagation of the light rays in the direction of the same additional projection lens 23.

The arrangement illustrated here in Figures 5 and 6 between the additional light assemblies is not limiting to the invention since each of the additional light assemblies can illuminate the additional projection lens 23 when the light sources associated with one of the sets are activated. In particular, the first and second additional optical devices could include more or fewer collectors, and for example each include only a single collector, or the collectors could be arranged differently.

The additional projection lens 23 of the additional light unit 11b makes it possible to project a first additional light beam projected from the first additional light beam, or a second additional light beam projected from the second additional light beam. The first and second additional projected light beams exit the first additional light unit 11b via the external face 231 of the additional projection lens 23.

These first and second additional projected light beams come out of the additional projection lens 23, depending on the activation of one and/or the other of the additional light assemblies 20, 20b, illuminating the additional projection lens 23 .

Just as for the first variant of the first embodiment, the realization of the first light function is obtained by the combination of the first projected light beam and the first additional projected light beam and the second light function is obtained by the combination of the first light beam projected and the first additional light beam projected with the second projected light beam to which is added the second additional projected light beam. Similar to the first variant of the first embodiment, the second projected light beam and, here, the second additional projected light beam do not make it possible to achieve the second light function without the contribution of the first projected light beams serving to achieve the first light function. The second projected light beam and, here, the second additional projected light beam have an effect complementary to that of the first light beam and additional light beam projected to form the second light function. We understand that in this way, it can again be concluded that the light units of this example of embodiment of a light module according to the invention are arranged in such a way that the two projection lenses forming the optical projection unit 4 , here the projection lens 6 and the additional projection lens 23, are illuminated as well:

- when on the one hand the first light function is emitted, by the combination of the first projected light beam emerging from the first projection lens 6 and the first additional projected light beam exiting from the additional projection lens 23,

- and when on the other hand the second light function is emitted, by the combination of the first projected light beam and the second projected light beam emerging from the first projection lens 6 and the first additional projected light beam and the second additional projected light beam emerging from the additional projection lens 23.

It will be noted that if the light module comprised a first projection mirror 6' in place of the first projection lens 6, and an additional projection mirror 23' in place of the additional projection lens 23, then the surface of the first projection mirror 6' and the surface of the additional projection mirror 23' would both be illuminated both during the emission of the first light function, and during the emission of the second light function.

A second embodiment of the invention can also be represented by Figures 5 and 6. In this embodiment, the arrangement of the first light unit 11a and the additional light unit 11b' is identical to that of the second variant of the first embodiment, and only the control of the light sources 26, 27, 22, 22b of the light units differs from the second alternative embodiment of the first embodiment.

Unlike the first embodiment, in the second embodiment the second light function is formed solely by the contribution of the second projected light beam and the second additional projected light beam. The first light beam and the first beam additional projected light does not contribute to the formation of the second light function.

In particular, the first and second projected light beams exit non-simultaneously from the first projection lens 6, depending on the activation of one or the other of the light assemblies 12, 13, by illuminating the first lens of projection 6. And, the first and second additional projected light beams exit non-simultaneously from the additional projection lens 23, depending on the activation of one or the other of the additional light assemblies 20, 20b, by illuminating the additional projection lens 23-

Thus, thanks to the specific configuration of the first light unit 11a which comprises both a first light assembly 12 contributing to the first light function and a second light assembly 13 contributing to the second light function, and thanks to the specific configuration of the additional light unit 11b' which comprises both a first additional light assembly 20 contributing to the first light function and a second additional light assembly 20b contributing to the second light function, the first projection lens 6 and the additional projection lens 23 are both illuminated during the emission of the first light function on the one hand, and during the emission of the second light function on the other hand.

It follows from the above that the light units 11a, 11b' of this second embodiment of a light module according to the invention are arranged in such a way that the two projection lenses forming the optical projection unit 4, here the first projection lens 6 and the additional projection lens 23 are illuminated as well:

- when on the one hand the first light function is emitted, by the combination of the first projected light beam emerging from the first projection lens 6 and the first additional projected light beam exiting from the additional projection lens 23,

- and when on the other hand the second light function is emitted, by the combination of the second projected light beam emerging from the first lens projection 6 and the second additional projected light beam emerging from the additional projection lens 23.

It will be noted that if the light module comprised a first projection mirror 6' in place of the first projection lens 6, and an additional projection mirror 23' in place of the additional projection lens 23, then the surface of the first projection mirror 6' and the surface of the additional projection mirror 23' would both be illuminated both during the emission of the first light function, and during the emission of the second light function.

It should be noted that the number of light units illustrated in Figures 1 to 6 is not limiting to the invention and that it is possible to have a different number of light units. In particular, the light module according to the invention may comprise more than one additional light unit.

A configuration with three light units is for example illustrated in Figure 7. This configuration is compatible with the first embodiment in which the first light beams are produced simultaneously with the second light beams in order to form the second light function.

In this Figure 7, the light module shown in Figures 5 and 6 comprises in addition to the first light unit 11a, and the additional light unit 11b', called first additional light unit 11b', a second additional light unit 11c. The light units are each demarcated in dotted lines to facilitate the reader's understanding.

The second additional light unit 11c is identical to the additional light unit 11b of the first variant of the first embodiment, with the difference that the additional projection lens 23 is replaced by a second additional projection lens 25. This second lens additional projection 25 is integrated into the optical projection unit 4 and corresponds to a third portion 4c of the optical projection unit 4.

Thus, each projection lens 6, 23, 25 is illuminated - when on the one hand the first light function is emitted, by the combination of the first projected light beam emerging from the first projection lens 6 and the first additional projected light beams exiting from the additional projection lens 23 and the second projection lens additional projection 25,

- and when on the other hand the second light function is emitted, by the combination of the first projected light beam and the second projected light beam emerging from the first projection lens 6 and the first additional projected light beam and the second additional projected light beam emerging from the additional projection lens 23, and from the first projected light beam emerging from the second additional projection lens 25 on the one hand.

A configuration with three light units is also possible for the second embodiment. In this case, it would be appropriate to add to the light module illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, a second additional light unit comprising a first additional light assembly contributing to the first light function and a second additional light assembly contributing to the second light function.

Figure 8 makes more particularly visible the general arrangement of a light unit, here the first light unit 11a of Figures 3 to 7, with the first and second distinct light assemblies 12, 13 associated with the first projection lens 6, forming part of the optical projection unit 4 previously mentioned.

Figure 8 is a section along a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and a vertical direction V perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction T, and passing through the second light source 27 of the second light assembly 13 of the first unit light 11a, this sectional view also making visible in the background a first light source 26 of the first light assembly 12 of this same first light unit 11a.

The first light source 26 is arranged opposite the first optical device 15, forming part of the first light assembly, and the second source light 27 is arranged opposite the second optical device 16, forming part of the second light assembly.

The first light source 26, in the event of activation, emits first light rays which propagate to the reflective surface of the first optical device 15 and are collected and reflected by the latter to form the first light beam, emitted in the direction of the first projection lens 6. The first light beam is then projected by the first projection lens 6. The second light source 27 emits second light rays which propagate to the reflecting surface of the second optical device 16, and are collected and reflected by the latter to form the second light beam, emitted in the direction of the first projection lens 6. The second light beam is then projected by the first projection lens 6

Each light source 26, 27 is arranged at a focus of the reflecting surface of the corresponding optical device, so that the rays it emits are collected and reflected along the optical axis 17 of the first projection lens.

The projection lens 6 is configured so that an optical focus 33 of this first projection lens 6 is arranged in the vicinity of a rear end edge 32 of the first optical device 15 with respect to the main direction of propagation of the light rays. along the optical axis.

By “in the vicinity” of the rear end edge 32 of the first optical device is meant that the distance between this rear end edge 32 and the optical focus 33 is less than or equal to 10 mm.

It results from this arrangement that at least part of these reflected rays have angles of inclination in a vertical plane relative to said optical axis 17 which are less than or equal to 25 ⁰ , preferably less than or equal to io°, of so as to be in the so-called Gaussian conditions, making it possible to obtain stigmatism, that is to say sharpness of the projected image. These are advantageously the rays reflected by the rear part of the reflecting surface of each of the optical devices 15, 16, and in particular the rays reflected in the vicinity of the rear end edge 32 of the first optical device 15.

The second optical device 16 is offset relative to the first optical device 15 in the vertical direction V, the second optical device 16 being closer to the printed circuit board 14 than is the first optical device 15. This offset allows the propagation of the second reflected light rays without them being obstructed by the first optical device 15.

In the example illustrated, the printed circuit board 14 has an inclination relative to a plane defined by the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction. The printed circuit board 14 has an angle of inclination 34 of between 5 ⁰ and 15 ⁰ relative to said plane. This inclination makes it possible to further orient the first light source 26 and the second light source 27 respectively towards the curvature of the first optical device 15 and the second optical device 16 in order to promote the reflection of the light rays.

A particular arrangement of two light assemblies within the same light unit has been described below, with reference to the light unit illustrated in Figure 8 which is more particularly the first light unit 11a of the light module of Figures 3 to 7, but it should be noted that other arrangements of two distinct light assemblies, in particular the arrangements illustrated on the additional light units of Figures 3 to 7 with for example a transverse offset of the optical devices of the light assemblies relative to each other. others could be implemented.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention, since a light module, in accordance with invention as it has just been described, comprises a plurality of optical projection systems forming part of an optical projection element and that the components of this light module are configured to be able to generate distinct light functions and so that the optical projection systems of the optical projection element are illuminated both when the first light function is emitted and when the second light function is emitted.

Claims

1. Light module (10) of a motor vehicle configured so as to emit a first light function and a second light function non-simultaneously, and comprising - an optical projection element (44) formed of a plurality of optical projection systems (6, 23, 25; 6’, 23’), - a plurality of light units (11a, 11b, 11b', 11c), each light unit comprising: - at least one light assembly (12, 13, 20, 20b, 24), and - an optical projection system belonging to said plurality of optical projection systems (6, 23, 25; 6', 23') and receiving the light rays emitted by the light assembly(s) of the corresponding light unit, the light units (11a, 11b, 11b', 11c) being arranged so that each optical projection system (6, 23, 25; 6', 23') of said optical projection element (44) is illuminated when the first light function is emitted and when the second light function is emitted. 2. Light module (10) of a motor vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that a partition (50) is arranged between two neighboring light units (11a, 11b, 11b', 11c). 3. Light module (10) of a motor vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the optical projection system of each light unit is formed by a projection lens (6, 23, 25), the projection lenses being juxtaposed and forming a transparent and one-piece projection optical unit (4), said projection optical unit forming the projection optical element (44). 4. Light module (10) of a motor vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the plurality of light units comprises a first light unit (11a) and an additional light unit (11b), the at least one light assembly of the first light unit (lia) comprising: - a first light assembly (12) formed of at least a first light source (26) and a first optical device (15) arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first light source (26) and to form from of these light rays, a first light beam, - a second light assembly (13) formed of at least a second light source (27) and a second optical device (16) arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second light source (27) and to form from of these light rays, a second light beam, and the optical projection system (6) of the first light unit (11a), called first optical projection system, being arranged to project the first light beam into a first projected beam and the second light beam into a second projected beam, the at least one light assembly of the additional light unit (11b; 11b'), comprising: - a first additional light assembly (24; 2o) formed of at least a first additional light source (240; 22) and a first additional optical device (241; 21) arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first source additional light (240; 22) and to form from these light rays, a first additional light beam, and the optical projection system (23) of the additional light unit (11b; 11b'), called optical projection system additional, being arranged to project the first additional light beam into a first projected additional beam, the combination of the first projected beam and the first projected additional beam forming the first light function and the combination of the first projected beam, of the first projected additional beam and of the second projected beam forming the second light function. 5. Light module (10) of a motor vehicle according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the additional light unit (11b') further comprises a second additional light assembly (20b) formed of at least one second additional light source (22b) and a second additional optical device (21b) arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second additional light source (22b) and to form from these light rays a second additional light beam, and the optical projection system (23) of the additional light unit (11b'), called additional optical projection system, being arranged to project the second additional light beam into a second additional projected beam, the second additional projected beam being combined with the combination of the first projected beam, the first additional projected beam and the second projected beam, to form the second light function. 6. Light module (10) of a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the plurality of light units comprises a first light unit (11a) and an additional light unit (nb'), 'at least one light assembly of the first light unit (11a) comprising: - a first light assembly (12) formed of at least a first light source (26) and a first optical device (15) arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first light source (26) and to form from of these light rays, a first light beam, - a second light assembly (13) formed of at least a second light source (27) and a second optical device (16) arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second light source (27) and to form from of these light rays, a second light beam, and the optical projection system (6) of the first light unit (11a), called the first optical projection system, being arranged to project the first light beam into a first projected beam and the second light beam into a second projected beam; the at least one light assembly of the additional light unit (nb'), comprising: - a first additional light assembly (20) formed of at least one first additional light source (22) and a first additional optical device (21) arranged to receive light rays emitted by the first additional light source (22) and to form from these light rays a first additional light beam, - a second additional light assembly (20b) formed of at least a second additional light source (22b) and a second additional optical device (21b) arranged to receive light rays emitted by the second additional light source (22b) and to form from these light rays a second additional light beam, and the optical projection system (23) of the additional light unit (11b'), called additional optical projection system, being arranged to project the first additional light beam into a first additional projected beam and the second additional light beam into a second additional projected beam, the combination of the first projected beam and the first additional projected beam forming the first light function, and the combination of the second projected beam and the second additional projected beam forming the second light function. 7. Light module (10) of a motor vehicle according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the light sources (26, 27, 22, 22b, 240) of a light unit (11a, 11b, 11’b, 11c) are arranged on the same support (14). 8. Light module (10) of a motor vehicle according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that each optical device (15, 16), respectively each additional optical device (21, 21b, 241), of a light assembly (12, 13, 20, 20b, 24) comprises at least one collector comprising a reflective surface arranged to collect and reflect the light rays emitted by the light source (26, 27), respectively by the additional light source (22, 22b, 240), of the light assembly (12, 13, 20, 20b, 24), the light rays reflected by the reflective surface of the collector and forming a light beams, respectively one of the additional light beams, being directed towards the optical projection system (6, 23, 25; 6', 23') of the light unit (11a, 11b, 11b', 11c) comprising the bright set. 9. Motor vehicle light module according to claim 8, characterized in that the optical projection system (6, 23, 25; 6', 23') of each light unit is arranged to form an image of the reflective surface of at least one collector of the light unit for generating at least one of the first and second projected beams, respectively the first additional projected beam or at least one of the first and second additional projected beams. 10. Motor vehicle light module according to claim 9, characterized in that said at least one collector comprises the collector of the first optical device (15) and/or the collector of the first additional optical device (21, 241), and the collector of the first optical device (15) and/or the collector of the first additional optical device (21, 241) have a rear end edge arranged in the vicinity of an optical focus of the optical projection system (6; 6') of the first light unit, respectively of the optical projection system (23, 23') of the additional light unit. 11. Motor vehicle light module according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the collector(s) of the first light assembly of the first light unit and/or respectively the collector(s) of the first additional light assembly (20) of the additional light unit (11b') are offset relative to the collector(s) of the second light assembly of the first light unit, respectively relative to the collector(s) of the second additional light assembly (20b) of the additional light unit ( 11b'), in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the optical axis of the projection lens (23) of the first light unit, respectively of the additional light unit (11b).