EP2546569B1 - Multifunctional lighting/signalling device for a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a lighting / multifunction signaling device for a motor vehicle.

The implementation of optical lighting / multifunction signaling devices for current motor vehicles is essential, because of the increasing multiplication and sophistication of the lighting and signaling functions to be performed.

From a number of functions initially limited to lighting by high beam and low beam, still designated codes, or Low Beam in English, the aforementioned functions include, at present, the Motorway Beam in English, Flat beam or Flat Beam in English, daytime running light beam or DRL for Daytime Running Light in English, and ADB beam, for Adaptive Driving Beam in English, ensuring the creation of a reduced adjustable illumination zone in pursuit of a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction or followed, in order to avoid any glare phenomenon of the driver of the latter.

In order to provide the aforementioned lighting / signaling functions, various solutions have been proposed in the corresponding technique.

A first solution, as described by the patent application EP2199664 , consists in implementing an optical device comprising a light source, a reflector associated with this source and a projection lens, to form a light beam, and an optical element placed between the reflector and the lens. This optical element can be displaced in translation in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis. The optical element has several edges or successive edges to create a cutoff of the light beam. These edges act as a beam bender by lateral displacement of the optical element and an interposition position of the light beam by the stop or the edge concerned, for the execution of the lighting function / signaling sought.

This solution is satisfactory but it has the disadvantage not only of the mechanical bulk of the mobile optical element in translation and its displacement, but also the process of selecting the edge or bending edge of the beam, which, in order to provide a lighting / signaling function switching transition acceptable for a user, requires a move / stop fast of the moving element. This increases the space required to perform such switching, because of the maximum travel distance of the movable optical element can reach the full length thereof, for switching between folding edges / transmitters placed at extremities of the latter.

A second solution, as described by the patent application EP 2244007 , consists in implementing an optical device comprising a light source, a reflector associated with this source and a projection lens to form a light beam, and a rotating element about an axis orthogonal to the optical axis of the light. set formed by the light source, the reflector and the lens. The rotating element, placed between the reflector and the lens, can be moved in rotation between a first and a second remarkable lighting position. The rotating element comprises at least two covers associated respectively with the first and second lighting position and comprise at least one edge to create a cut-off of the light beam. They play the role of a beam folder. The two covers and the rotating element are further arranged to perform a gradual transition of illumination between the two positions of remarkable lighting.

Such a solution gives satisfaction. However, the implementation of a mechanical solution by relative arrangement of the angular positions of the surfaces of the covers between a first and a second lighting position, to obtain a progressive switching of the beams, does not allow an easy generalization to a number any beams, or at least covering all the lighting / signaling functions mentioned above.

The document DE 10 2008010028 To shows another solution.

The present invention relates to the implementation of a lighting / signaling device for a motor vehicle likely to integrate all lighting / signaling functions of current vehicles, but in which the disadvantages and limitations of the devices of the aforementioned prior art are substantially removed.

An object of the present invention is in particular the implementation of a lighting / multifunction signaling device for a motor vehicle, in which the geometrical arrangement of the light beam folding edges constituting the beam folding machine is simplified, in the aim to simplify and streamline the manufacture and implementation of the beam bending machine.

Another object of the present invention is furthermore the implementation of a lighting / multifunction signaling device for a motor vehicle in which the beam bender is equipped with reflective optical facets, allowing a bending of a light beam with a light output. maximum illumination for each of the functions implemented.

Another object of the present invention is the implementation of a lighting / multifunction signaling device for a motor vehicle, in which the switching time for selecting and moving from one folding edge to another folding edge is substantially reduced, because of the simplification of the aforementioned geometric arrangement.

Another object of the present invention is furthermore the implementation of a lighting / multifunction signaling device for a motor vehicle, in which the processing of the illumination transitions from one light beam to another light beam of two functions. lighting / signaling is performed electronically, which minimizes the switching time and the visual effect produced on the driver of the vehicle, or a third vehicle, because of these transitions.

Another object of the present invention is finally the implementation of a lighting / multifunction signaling device for a motor vehicle, by means of which the execution of the function of continuation of the lighting / signaling functions ADB and code is furthermore simplified.

The lighting / multifunctional light beam signaling device for a motor vehicle, which is the subject of the invention, comprises at least one double-focus elliptical collector, a light source placed in the vicinity of one of the foci, and a beam projection lens. luminous according to a beam of lighting / signaling. It is remarkable in that it further comprises a multifunction beam bender, formed by an optical polyhedron, said optical polyhedron being provided with a number greater than two optical facets, each optical facet being provided with a folding edge / beam transmitter generating a specific lighting / signaling function. The optical polyhedron is placed in the path of the light beam, between the collector and the projection lens, in the vicinity of the second focus, and movable at least in rotation about an axis of rotation orthogonal to the optical axis of the assembly. , including the first and second homes. A selection and control resource of at least one optical facet and the folding edge / beam transmitter associated therewith is provided to bring the folding / transmitting edge into the position of intercepting the light beam in the vicinity of the second focus, by rotational displacement control of the optical polyhedron.

The device according to the invention is furthermore remarkable in that, for a lighting / signaling system with four functions, the cross section of the optical polyhedron is inscribed in a square, on each side of the square being associated an optical facet and a specific folding / transmitting edge for folding the light beam according to a code beam, an ADB beam, a driving beam and a flat beam, respectively.

The device which is the subject of the invention is furthermore remarkable in that, for a lighting / signaling system with five functions, the cross-section of the optical polyhedron is inscribed in a pentagon, on each side of the pentagon being associated an optical facet and a specific folding / transmitting edge allowing the folding of the light beam, an optical facet and a folding / transmitting edge specific to the lighting / motorway signaling function being inserted between the optical facet and the specific folding / transmitting edge of the beam of light. code and the optical facet and the folding edge / specific transmitter of the ADB beam respectively.

The device which is the subject of the invention is furthermore remarkable in that, for a lighting / signaling system with six functions, the cross section of the optical polyhedron is inscribed in a hexagon, on each side of the hexagon being associated a facet optical and a specific folding / transmitting edge allowing the folding of the light beam, an optical facet and a folding edge / transmitter specific to the daylight lighting / signaling function being inserted between the optical facet and the Folder edge / specific transmitter of the flat beam and the optical facet and the specific edge of the code beam respectively.

The device, object of the invention, is furthermore remarkable that the optical polyhedron is constituted by a plastic material, each optical facet and the folding edge / transmitter relative thereto being formed by extrusion and provided with a reflective coating, partially reflective or a recess.

The device which is the subject of the invention is also remarkable in that the selection and control resource comprises at least one rotation drive motor of the optical polyhedron, in increment of arc of rotation corresponding to the angle at the center of each optical facet, and a rotational drive motor control module.

The device, which is the subject of the invention, is furthermore remarkable in that the control of a rotation arc increment is executed in pulse mode, of duration less than 1/30 of a second.

The device which is the subject of the invention is also remarkable in that, during the control by incremental rotation of each optical facet, the motor control module generates a control pulse of reduction / extinction of the intensity of the electric current delivered to the light source.

The device, object of the invention, is also remarkable that the control module includes an electronic coding module receiving as input a coded signal indicating the state of the current beam and the state of the next beam and delivering a control signal the direction of rotation of the motor and the optical polyhedron and the number of arcs of rotation to change from the current beam state to the next beam state.

The device, object of the invention, is also remarkable in that the beam folder is further mounted on a plate movable in translation in a horizontal direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the assembly including the first and the second focus , the translational control of the plate being performed so as to shift the folding edge / transmitter in the focal plane of the second focus and the illumination beam azimuthal angular tracking of a vehicle traveling in the same direction or in the opposite direction.

The device that is the subject of the invention is finally remarkable in that the resources selection and control comprise a motor for translational movement of the plate and the beam bender controlled by a control module controlled by a control unit and a camera.

The lighting / signaling device multifunctional light beam for a motor vehicle, object of the invention, finds application to the equipment of motor vehicles of any type in order, in particular, to improve the safety of driving and circulation of vehicles equipped or not equipped with the latter.

• la figure 1 représente un schéma de principe, selon une vue en coupe, suivant un plan longitudinal de symétrie, du dispositif d'éclairage/signalisation par faisceau lumineux multifonctions pour véhicule automobile objet de la présente invention ;
• la figure 2 représente, selon une vue en perspective, un détail du dispositif d'éclairage/signalisation par faisceau lumineux multifonctions pour véhicule automobile, objet de la présente invention, tel que représenté en figure 1 ;
• les figures 3a, 3b et 3c représentent, à titre illustratif, différentes variantes d'exécution d'un polyèdre optique permettant la mise en oeuvre du dispositif objet de l'invention pour l'implémentation de quatre, cinq, six fonctions d'éclairage/signalisation respectivement, au moyen d'un polyèdre optique spécifique correspondant ;
• les figures 4a, 4b, 4c et 4d représentent une vue en perspective du polyèdre optique commuté dans ses différentes positions, pour l'exécution d'une fonction d'éclairage/signalisation spécifique associée à la facette correspondante du polyèdre optique, dans le cas où ce polyèdre optique présente quatre facettes, et, en conséquence, permet l'exécution de quatre fonctions d'éclairage/signalisation distinctes;
• la figure 5a représente, à titre illustratif, une vue en coupe de la figure 4a selon un plan longitudinal de symétrie de cette dernière et le diagramme d'iso-intensité du faisceau lumineux obtenu dans un plan orthogonal à l'axe optique ZZ de l'ensemble ;
• la figure 5b représente, à titre illustratif, une vue en coupe de la figure 4b selon un plan longitudinal de symétrie de cette dernière et le diagramme d'iso-intensité du faisceau lumineux obtenu dans un plan orthogonal à l'axe optique ZZ de l'ensemble ;
• la figure 5c représente à titre illustratif, une vue en coupe de la figure 4c selon un plan longitudinal de symétrie de cette dernière et le diagramme d'iso-intensité du faisceau lumineux obtenu dans un plan orthogonal à l'axe optique ZZ de l'ensemble ;
• la figure 5d représente, à titre illustratif, une coupe de la figure 4d selon un plan longitudinal de symétrie de cette dernière et le diagramme d'iso-intensité du faisceau lumineux obtenu dans un plan orthogonal à l'axe optique ZZ de l'ensemble ;
• la figure 6a représente, à titre illustratif, une commande par impulsions de la rotation du polyèdre optique dans un dispositif d'éclairage/signalisation par faisceau lumineux multifonctions pour véhicule automobile, conforme à l'objet de la présente invention ;
• la figure 6b représente à titre illustratif une commande par impulsions de la rotation du polyèdre optique de la figure 6a dans une variante préférentielle de mise en oeuvre, dans laquelle l'intensité d'alimentation de la source lumineuse est modulée de façon à atténuer et/ou supprimer la visibilité des transitoires de commutation du faisceau optique, du fait de la rotation du polyèdre optique précité ;
• la figure 7a représente, selon une vue de dessus, le dispositif d'éclairage/signalisation par faisceau lumineux multifonctions pour véhicule automobile, objet de l'invention, tel que représenté en figure 1, dans un mode de mise en oeuvre préférentiel non limitatif, dans lequel une combinaison de faisceaux d'éclairage/signalisation peut-être effectuée pour des faisceaux d'éclairage/signalisation différents, pour chaque projecteur avant du véhicule automobile, notamment lors de la mise en oeuvre de la fonction ADB et de la poursuite en azimut d'un véhicule tiers précédant le véhicule équipé du dispositif objet de l'invention, ou venant en sens inverse de ce dernier, dans le but de supprimer tout éblouissement du conducteur de ce véhicule tiers ;
• la figure 7b représente un schéma fonctionnel complet de commande du dispositif objet de l'invention tel que représenté en figure 7a ;
• la figure 7c représente une illustration de la commande de faisceau par la fonction ADB obtenue grâce à la mise en oeuvre du dispositif objet de l'invention tel que représenté en figures 7a et 7b.

It will be better understood by reading the description and by observing the drawings in which:

• the figure 1 represents a block diagram, in a sectional view, along a longitudinal plane of symmetry, of the lighting device / multifunction light beam signaling for a motor vehicle object of the present invention;
• the figure 2 represents, in a perspective view, a detail of the multifunction light beam illumination / signaling device for a motor vehicle, object of the present invention, as represented in FIG. figure 1 ;
• the Figures 3a, 3b and 3c represent, by way of illustration, various variant embodiments of an optical polyhedron allowing the implementation of the device that is the subject of the invention for the implementation of four, five, six lighting / signaling functions respectively, by means of a corresponding specific optical polyhedron;
• the Figures 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d represent a perspective view of the optical polyhedron switched in its different positions, for the execution of a specific lighting / signaling function associated with the corresponding facet of the optical polyhedron, in the case where this optical polyhedron has four facets, and as a result, allows the execution of four distinct lighting / signaling functions;
• the figure 5a represents, for illustrative purposes, a sectional view of the figure 4a along a longitudinal plane of symmetry of the latter and the iso-intensity diagram of the light beam obtained in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis ZZ of the assembly;
• the figure 5b represents, for illustrative purposes, a sectional view of the figure 4b along a longitudinal plane of symmetry of the latter and the iso-intensity diagram of the light beam obtained in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis ZZ of the assembly;
• the figure 5c represents for illustrative purposes, a sectional view of the figure 4c according to a longitudinal plane of symmetry of the latter and the iso-intensity diagram of the light beam obtained in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis ZZ of the assembly;
• the figure 5d represents, for illustrative purposes, a section of the figure 4d along a longitudinal plane of symmetry of the latter and the iso-intensity diagram of the light beam obtained in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis ZZ of the assembly;
• the figure 6a represents, for illustrative purposes, a pulse control of the rotation of the optical polyhedron in a multifunction light beam illumination / signaling device for a motor vehicle, in accordance with the subject of the present invention;
• the figure 6b represents for illustrative purposes a pulse control of the rotation of the optical polyhedron of the figure 6a in a preferred embodiment, in which the intensity of supply of the light source is modulated so as to attenuate and / or eliminate the visibility of the switching transients of the optical beam, because of the rotation of the aforementioned optical polyhedron ;
• the figure 7a represents, in a view from above, the lighting / signaling device multifunction light beam for a motor vehicle, object of the invention, as shown in FIG. figure 1 , in a preferred non-limiting embodiment, in which a combination of lighting / signaling beams can be made for different lighting / signaling beams, for each front projector of the motor vehicle, especially when setting implementation of the ADB function and azimuth tracking of a third vehicle preceding the vehicle equipped with the device object of the invention, or coming in the opposite direction of the latter, in order to remove any dazzle of the driver of this vehicle third party;
• the figure 7b represents a complete functional block diagram of the device object of the invention as represented in FIG. figure 7a ;
• the Figure 7c represents an illustration of the control of the beam by the function ADB obtained thanks to the implementation of the device object of the invention as represented in FIG. figures 7a and 7b .

A more detailed description of the multifunction lighting / signaling device for a motor vehicle, in accordance with the purpose of this invention, will now be given in connection with the figure 1 .

With reference to the above-mentioned figure, it is pointed out that the device which is the subject of the invention comprises at least one elliptical collector, also referred to as a reflector, denoted R, with a double focus f1, f2. A light source S is placed in the vicinity of one of the foci, the focus f1. The light source may be either a set of LEDs or a halogen source or other.

The device which is the subject of the invention also comprises a lens L for projecting the light beam, or fi, ft, f beams delivered by the light source S according to a lighting / signaling beam F.

According to a remarkable aspect of the device object of the invention, it further comprises a multi-function beam folder, denoted 1, formed by an optical polyhedron. This optical polyhedron 1 is provided with a number of optical facets greater than two, which can be arranged adjacently along a generative line of the polyhedron. Each optical facet is provided with a folding edge / beam transmitter, this folding edge / beam transmitter generating a specific lighting / signaling function. The optical polyhedron 1 is placed in the path of the light beam generated by the source S between the collector R and the projection lens L, in the vicinity of the second focus f2. It transmits reflected beams and beams transmitted to the lens. focus, whose focal plane contains the focus f2.

Each facet of the optical polyhedron 1 is provided at night with a reflective coating, if necessary partially reflecting, or with a recess, the folding edge / beam transmitter generating a specific lighting / signaling function of one of the facets being placed in the vicinity of the second focus f2. The folding / transmitting edge associated with the facet considered is thus orthogonal to the optical axis ZZ of the assembly and to the plane of the sheet containing the figure 1 .

In addition, according to a remarkable aspect of the device according to the invention, the optical polyhedron 1 is mobile at least in rotation about an axis of rotation YY orthogonal to the optical axis ZZ of the assembly including the first f1 and the second focus f2.

On the figure 1 is shown in phantom a mechanical link RR of the axis of rotation YY with a drive system described hereinafter.

In addition, the device which is the subject of the invention comprises a resource 2 for selecting and controlling at least one optical facet and the folding edge / beam transmitter associated therewith for bringing this folding / transmitting edge into position. interception of the light beam in the vicinity of the second focus f2, by controlling the rotational displacement of the optical polyhedron 1.

We understand, to the observation of the figure 1 that the controlled and selected optical facet intercepts the incident light beams to return reflected beams partially reflected fr or transmitted to the projection lens L to form the illumination / signaling beam F.

The optical polyhedron 1 is thus dimensioned so as to allow the free rotation of the latter and the setting up of the facet, in particular the folding / transmitting edge, in the vicinity of the second focus f2 by simple rotation control around the axis. of rotation YY. For this purpose, the edge of the polyhedron constituting the folding / transmitting edge of the face in question is placed orthogonally to the optical axis ZZ and to the plane of the sheet of the figure 1 .

The resource 2 for selecting and controlling at least one optical facet and the folding edge / beam transmitter thereof advantageously comprises a rotary drive motor 20 and a control module 21, which will be described in detail. later in the description. It is thus understood that the passage of one of the facets of the optical polyhedron 1 to another facet of the latter, to perform the switching of the corresponding lighting / signaling function, is thus performed by simple rotation of the optical polyhedron 1.

On the figure 1 , the optical polyhedron 1 is represented as consisting of four facets substantially inscribed in a square. This mode of implementation is not limiting.

Various alternative embodiments of the optical polyhedron 1 are shown and described in connection with the figure 2 and Figures 3a, 3b and 3c .

On the figure 2 , the collector R is represented, in a nonlimiting manner, as constituted by a double reflector each provided with a source arranged symmetrically with respect to the optical axis ZZ.

In general, it is indicated that each facet is provided with a specific folding / transmitting edge to perform the corresponding lighting / signaling function, the optical polyhedron 1 being switched by simple rotation around the axis of rotation YY, by ordering resource 2. The shape and size of each facet and each corresponding bending / transmitting edge is subject to specific regulations to meet the criteria of the corresponding standard lighting / signaling functions. For this reason, the shape and size of each of the aforementioned facets will not be described in detail.

With reference to the figure 3a when the lighting / signaling system has four functions, as shown in figure 1 or 2 , the cross-section of the optical polyhedron 1 is advantageously inscribed in a square, C. At each side of the square is associated an optical facet and a specific folding / transmitting edge allowing the light beam to be folded in a Code beam, an ADB beam, a Route beam and a Flat beam respectively. On the figure 3a , the corresponding facets are designated by the name of the function they can execute. They can advantageously be assigned each of a coded reference 01.02, 03 and 04 in fact to identify the position of each of the facets and the folding edge / transmitter associated therewith, during a switching sequence for example . Each facet, in the case of figure 3a , is included in a center angle of 90 °.

Where the signaling lighting system has five functions, as shown in figure 3b , the cross section of the optical polyhedron 1 is inscribed in a pentagon P. On each side of the pentagon is associated an optical facet and a specific folding / transmitting edge for folding the light beam. In this embodiment, an optical facet of a bending / transmitting edge specific to the Autoroute lighting / signaling function is inserted between the optical facet and the specific bending / transmitting edge of the Code beam and the optical facet and the specific folding / transmitting edge of the ADB beam respectively. On the figure 3b , each of the Code, Highway, ADB, Route and Flat functions has the coded reference 01, 02, 03 04, 05 respectively. Each optical facet is inscribed in an angle at center of 72 °.

When the lighting / signaling system has six functions, as shown in figure 3c , the cross section of the optical polyhedron 1 is inscribed in a hexagon H. At each side of the hexagon is associated an optical facet and a specific folding / transmitting edge for folding the light beam. More particularly, an optical facet and a folding / transmitting edge specific to the daylight lighting / signaling function is then inserted between the optical facet and the specific bending / transmitting edge of the flat bundle and the optical facet and the Specific bender / transmitter edge of Code Beam. On the figure 3c , each of the Code, Highway, ADB, Route, Flat and Day functions is coded as 01, 02, 03, 04, 05 and 06 respectively. Each optical facet is inscribed in an angle at the center of 60 °.

Regarding the execution of the optical polyhedron 1 as such, it is indicated that the latter can be obtained by extrusion of a fiberglass reinforced plastic material for example. The different facets and folding edge / transmitter of each of these can then be easily executed from a corresponding specific mold. Each facet is then provided with a reflective coating formed, for example, by a metallization of silver or aluminum alloy. In the case of the facet associated with the route function, the metallization is replaced at least partially by a recess denoted e which allows the passage and transmission of the entire upper beam at the facet plane and the virtual absence of folding of this beam, to execute the conventional Route lighting beam.

With regard to the daylighting function, the latter corresponds to a divergent facet, introducing a dispersion and a reduction in the intensity of the light beam. The number of optical facets of the optical polyhedron 1 is not limited to six. Proper sizing of the latter can increase this number to seven or eight.

Finally with reference to the figure 1 it is indicated that the selection and control resource 2 advantageously comprises a motor 20 for rotating the optical polyhedron 1 in increments of arc of rotation corresponding to the angle at the center of each optical facet, independently of the embodiment of the number of functions described in FIG. 3a, 3b, or 3c .

In addition, a control module 21 makes it possible to control the driving of the optical polyhedron 1 by the motor 20. The drive motor 20 may advantageously be constituted by a stepping motor. This type of motor makes it possible, in this application in particular, to adapt the angular rotation control of the optical polyhedron 1 to the engine rotation pitch.

In particular, a particularly advantageous specific control mode can be implemented from the coded references assigned to each of the aforementioned facets.

Thus, for each of the embodiments shown in FIG. 3a, 3b or 3c the rotation control by the module 21 can be performed from the initial coded reference Ci, corresponding to the facet and the folding edge / transmitter associated therewith in the current position of intercepting the light beam, and the coded reference final Cf to reach, corresponding to the facet and the folding edge associated with it, due to an automatic command or executed from the commodo of the vehicle by the driver of the latter. It is understood, in particular, that the calculation of the difference between the aforementioned coded reference values, the comparison of this difference in absolute value to half the number of functions implemented by the optical polyhedron 1 make it possible to determine the direction of direct rotation or retrograde optical polyhedron. The control of the motor is thus deduced from the number of elementary rotations corresponding to an angle at the center of each facet, limited to a number less than or equal to half the number of functions implemented by the optical polyhedron 1, to reach the lighting function. / signaling corresponding to the final coded reference Cf, by rotation in the direct or retrograde direction.

A more detailed description of the relative position of each optical facet and the folding / transmitting edge BP associated with each of them will now be given in connection with the Figures 4a to 4d and 5a to 5d , in the non-limiting case of the figure 3a where the optical polyhedron 1 implements four lighting / signaling functions.

On the Figure 4a and 4b the lighting / signaling function of Code L respectively ADB is selected. The optical facet of the optical polyhedron 1 has its folding edge / BP transmitter, whose CP cutoff is placed in the vicinity the second focus f2. It is noted that in the case of figure 4b the CP cutoff of the BP folding / transmitting edge is more important.

On the figure 4c , the Route lighting / signaling function is selected. The optical facet of the optical polyhedron 1 has its recess e instead of a folding edge / transmitter, which ensures a virtually complete transmission of incident beams emitted by the source, in the absence of interception. The recess e appears as a cutaway allowing the aforementioned almost complete transmission.

On the figure 4d , the Flat light / signaling function is selected. The optical facet of the optical polyhedron 1 has its fold edge / BP transmitter substantially centered in the vicinity of the second focus f2, in the absence of cut.

The Figures 5a to 5d take up, in a side sectional view of Figures 4a to 4d , the respective positions of the optical facets of the optical polyhedron 1, when selecting the similar functions of Code, ADB -L, Route and Flat respectively, accompanied by the iso-intensity curves of the light beam F delivered by the lens L in a frontal plane, orthogonal to the beam and containing the x, y directions.

It is found, in a conventional manner, that in the case of the function Code figure 5a , the light beam F has in the upper left quadrant of the x-plane, y a substantially zero intensity, and a height-limited intensity in the upper right quadrant of this same plane, than in the case of the L-type ADB function, figure 5b , the light beam F has in the upper left quarter of the plane x, y a substantially zero intensity but a significant intensity in the upper right quarter of this same plane, intensity comparable to that of the road function in the same quarter of plane, that in the case of the Route function, figure 5c , the light beam F has a substantially symmetrical intensity diagram with respect to the vertical direction x, the intensity of the illumination being significant in the upper right and left quadrants, than in the case of the selection of the function Plat, figure 5d For night urban lighting, for example, the light beam F has a substantially zero intensity pattern in the upper right and left quadrants of the same plane x, y.

A preferred mode of control of the selection of an optical facet and of the lighting / signaling function associated therewith is now described in connection with the Figures 6a and 6 b.

On the figure 6a , we consider the selection of the function of lighting / signaling Flat, from a lighting / signaling function Autoroute for example, during a passage of the vehicle from a motorway traffic to an urban traffic for example. This switching and function selection can be carried out either on the initiative of the driver of the vehicle or automatically.

We consider, in relation to the figure 3b , an optical polyhedron 1 implementing five lighting / signaling functions for which the initial coded reference Ci is thus 02 and whose final coded reference Cf is therefore 05.

The switching is performed, as described above, by determining the direction of rotation of the optical polyhedron 1, in this situation the retrograde direction, because the number of switching arcs by rotation in the forward direction is greater than the half of the total number of functions implemented, as previously described in the description.

According to a remarkable aspect of the device according to the invention, the switching of each successive optical facet according to the sequence represented in FIG. figure 6a , denoted 02, 01, 05 is executed with a limited optical facet switching time, for example less than or equal to 500 milliseconds. In particular, it can be understood that this switching mode makes it possible to substantially eliminate any transient secondary effect of optical switching linked to the rotation of the optical facets of the optical polyhedron 1. By way of nonlimiting example, it is indicated that the time interval between the switching of two successive facets can be taken much lower than the switching time of an optical facet.

In addition, as represented in figure 6b , the switching control and selection of an optical facet, as described above in connection with the figure 6a , may advantageously consist in modulating the intensity of the current delivered to the light source S to attenuate, if not suppress, the intensity delivered to the latter during the switching time of the facet considered. On the figure 6b the same process and switching sequence as in the case of figure 6a , the intensity of the current delivered to the light source S during the switching process of each facet being brought substantially to the zero value. The corresponding intensity chronogram delivered to the light source S is represented in dashed line on the figure 6b .

A more detailed description of a nonlimiting preferred mode of implementation of the device which is the subject of the invention will now be given in connection with the figures 7a , 7b and 7c .

The figure 7a represents a view from above of the device that is the subject of the invention as represented in figure 1 , in the preferred embodiment mentioned above. The same references designate the same elements. The plan of the figure 7a is the plane y, z of the figure 1 .

In addition, according to a remarkable aspect of the latter, the beam folder, that is to say the optical polyhedron 1, and, where appropriate, the drive motor in rotation thereof are mounted on a plate 3 movable in translation in a direction y orthogonal to the optical axis ZZ of the assembly including the first focus f1 and the second focus f2. We thus understand, with reference to the figure 7a , that the folding edge / transmitter BP being placed substantially at the second focus f2, the aforementioned translation is operated for the entire folding edge / BP transmitter in the focal plane of the focusing lens L. The aforementioned translation and allows to shift the entire light beam F in the plane of the figure 7a either in the plane containing the directions y and z of the aforementioned figure. This makes it possible to make an azimuth shift of the axis of the light beam F delivered by the focusing lens L. In particular, it is understood that the offset amplitude dy of the folding / transmitting edge BP and the cutting of this last, when a cutoff is present, is relatively low, between +/- 10 mm for example, but this offset allows a significant angular offset of the light beam F for tracking purposes of a third vehicle for example as well as it will be described below.

On the figure 7a , in addition to the plate 3 on which is rotatably mounted the optical polyhedron 1, driven in rotation by the motor 20 and controlled by the control module 21 b, a drive motor in translation, denoted 4. The latter is preferably a DC motor, because of the control accuracy of this type of motor. The output shaft of the aforementioned direct current motor may advantageously be coupled to a reduction system, not shown in the drawing, to enable the displacement in translation of the assembly formed by the plate 3 and the Optical polyhedron 1. The transmission system by gearbox or gear, of conventional type, will not be described in detail.

The device which is the subject of the invention, as represented in figure 7a , makes it possible to carry out an illumination tracking of a third-party vehicle VT, in order to prevent any glare from the driver of the latter under the following conditions.

For this purpose, the control module 21b, as shown in FIG. figure 7a , presents the specific architecture completed, as represented in figure 7b . In particular, a camera is provided on board a vehicle equipped with the device object of the invention, vehicle noted VE. The equipment of the latter consists of a device according to the object of the invention applied to each of the headlights of the equipped vehicle. It is understood, in particular, that while a single camera and a control unit are used for a given equipped vehicle, the left and right front headlight thereof includes, if necessary, an independent control module 21 b allocated at each respective lighthouse. On the figure 7b only a control module 21b has been shown, so as not to overload the drawing.

The above-mentioned control module 21b is associated with a DBL control unit 22 which is directly connected to the general control unit of the vehicle. The control module 21 performs the beam selection, i.e., lighting / signaling function comparable to the beam selection control module 21 shown in FIG. figure 1 .

It is understood, in particular, that because of the speed and flexibility of switching the choice of the lighting / signaling function by simple rotation of the optical polyhedron 1, as previously written in the description, the selection of a specific beam for each of the left and right front headlights VE equipped vehicle allows the creation of a dark area ZS and move in pursuit this dark area depending on the relative movement of the vehicle third VT vis-à-vis the vehicle equipped VE, as illustrated in Figure 7c .

In the above-mentioned figure, different relative positions of the third-party vehicle VT and the VE-equipped vehicle are represented in positions 1 to 5.

In position 1, the camera detects the third party vehicle VT in the far position. The right light beams Fd and left Fg are both switched to the function The above-mentioned beams show the iso-intensity diagram as represented in FIG. figure 5d , symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis of VE equipped vehicle.

The tracking function is started by the camera and executed by the control unit and of course, the control module 22, which controls the translational movement of the optical polyhedron 1, via the motor 4, to shift , depending on the approach of the third vehicle VT, the right beam Fd angularly to the left. This operation is performed by controlling the engine 4 and continued to the position 3 of the third vehicle VT, corresponding substantially to the minimum illumination distance for a light beam type L. During the approach of the third vehicle VT, the beam left Fg is not modified. When the third vehicle VT enters the minimum distance illumination zone of the right beam Fd, which moreover corresponds substantially to the minimum distance illumination zone of the left beam Fg, the right beam may be switched by rotating the optical polyhedron 1 to select, for example, the lighting / signaling function Code for the right beam Fd, as shown in position 4.

Finally, when the third vehicle VT has completed the crossing of the VE equipped vehicle, the right beam Fd can be switched again, and the left beam Fg, by selecting the Route lighting / signaling function for example, for each of the aforementioned bundles.

It will of course be understood that the process of tracking the third-party vehicle VT is not limited to the circulation of a third-party vehicle in the opposite direction to the equipped vehicle. This process also applies to any third-party vehicle preceding the VE-equipped vehicle, which VE is approaching. The beam switching and tracking sequences are then adapted accordingly.

Finally, it is understood that the tracking function, known as such to those skilled in the art, will not be described in detail but that this function can be applied in combination to any type of light beam having a longitudinal asymmetry of illumination to create a dark area ZS.

Claims (11)

1. Device for lighting/signalling by a multi-function light beam for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one elliptical collector (R) with a double focal point (f1, f2), a source of light (S) which is placed in the vicinity of one of the focal points, and a lens (L) for projection of the light beam according to a lighting/signalling beam (F),
   characterised in that it additionally comprises:

   - a multi-function beam bender, formed by an optical polyhedron (1), the said optical polyhedron being provided with a number of more than two optical facets, each optical facet being provided with a beam bender/transmitter edge (BP) which generates a specific lighting/signalling function, the said polyhedron (1) being placed on the trajectory of the light beam (F) between the said collector (R) and the said projection lens (L), in the vicinity of the said second focal point (f2), and mobile at least in rotation around an axis of rotation (YY) which is at right angles to the optical axis (ZZ) of the assembly which includes the said first and the said second focal point; and

   - means (2) for selection and control of at least one optical facet and of the beam bender/transmitter edge (BP) associated with the latter, in order to bring the said beam bender/transmitter edge (BP) into the position for interception of the said light beam in the vicinity of the said second focal point (f2) by means of a command for displacement in rotation of the said optical polyhedron (1).
2. Device according to claim 1, characterised in that, for a lighting/signalling system with four functions, the straight section of the said optical polyhedron (1) is contained within a square, each side of the square being associated with an optical facet and a specific bender/transmitter edge (BP) which permits bending of the light beam according to a low beam, an ADB beam, a high beam, and a flat beam, respectively.
3. Device according to claim 1, characterised in that, for a lighting/signalling system with five functions, the straight section of the said optical polyhedron (1) is contained within a pentagon, each side of the pentagon being associated with an optical facet and a specific bender/transmitter edge (BP) which permits bending of the light beam, an optical facet and a bender/transmitter edge (BP) specific to the motorway lighting/signalling function being inserted between the optical facet and the bender/transmitter edge (BP) specific to the low beam and the optical facet and the bender/transmitter edge specific to the ADB beam, respectively.
4. Device according to claim 1, characterised in that, for a lighting/signalling system with six functions, the straight section of the said optical polyhedron (1) is contained within a hexagon, each side of the hexagon being associated with an optical facet and a specific bender/transmitter edge (BP) which permits bending of the light beam, an optical facet and a bender/transmitter edge (BP) specific to the daytime lighting/signalling function being inserted between the optical facet and the bender/transmitter edge (BP) specific to the flat beam and the optical facet and the bender/transmitter edge specific to the low beam, respectively.
5. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the said optical polyhedron (1) is constituted by a plastic material, each optical facet and the specific bender/transmitter edge (BP) relating to it being formed by extrusion, and being provided with a reflective coating which is partially reflective, or with a recess.
6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the means for selection and control (2) comprise at least:

   - a motor (20) for rotation of the said optical polyhedron (1) by incrementing an arc of rotation corresponding to the angle at the centre of each optical facet;

   - a module (21) to control the rotation motor (20).
7. Device according to claim 6, characterised in that the command for incrementing an arc of rotation is executed in pulse mode, with a duration of 500 ms or less.
8. Device according to one of claims 6 or 7, characterised in that, during the command for incrementing an arc of rotation of each optical facet, the said control module (21) of the motor (20) additionally generates a pulse for command of the reduction/extinction of the intensity of the electric current supplied to the source of light.
9. Device according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterised in that the said control module (21) includes an electronic encoding module, which receives as input an encoded signal indicating the present state of the beam, and the next state of the beam, and providing a signal to command the direction of rotation of the motor (20) and of the optical polyhedron (1) and to command the number of arcs of rotation in order to go from the present state of the beam to the next state of the beam.
10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the said beam bender is also fitted on a plate (3) which is mobile in translation in a horizontal direction at right angles to the optical axis of the assembly which includes the said first (f1) and the said second (f2) focal points, the translation of the plate (3) being commanded such as to offset the specific bender/transmitter edge on the focal plane of the second focal point and the lighting beam in azimuthal angular pursuit of a vehicle travelling in the same direction or in the opposite direction.
11. Device according to claims 1 and 10, characterised in that the said means for selection and control additionally comprise a motor for displacement in translation of the plate and of the beam bender, commanded by a control module which is controlled by a control unit and a camera.

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