阅读说明：本技术 用于产生光动画的用于机动车的发光设备 (Lighting device for a motor vehicle for producing a light animation ) 是由 W·托马斯 R·兰德勒 于 2020-04-15 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种用于产生光动画的用于机动车(18)的发光设备(10)。该发光设备(10)具有光发射设备(24),其中,该光发射设备(24)被划分为多个区段(Si)。发光设备(10)此外具有控制单元(40),该控制单元被设计成,分开地操控光发射设备(24)的多个区段(Si)中的每个区段。此外,控制单元(40)被构造成,如此操控多个区段(Si),使得发光设备(10)的在用于光动画的所有区段上的平均的光度参数(LD、LS)处在规定的区间内。(The invention relates to a lighting device (10) for a motor vehicle (18) for producing a light animation. The light-emitting device (10) has a light-emitting device (24), wherein the light-emitting device (24) is divided into a plurality of segments (Si). The light-emitting device (10) furthermore has a control unit (40) which is designed to separately actuate each of a plurality of segments (Si) of the light-emitting device (24). Furthermore, the control unit (40) is designed to control the plurality of segments (Si) in such a way that the mean luminosity parameters (LD, LS) of the light-emitting device (10) over all segments for the light animation lie within a defined interval.)

1. A light-emitting device (10) for a motor vehicle (18) for producing a light animation, having:

-a light emitting device (24) for producing a light animation, wherein the light emitting device (24) is divided into a plurality of segments (Si), and

a control unit (40) designed to,

separately manipulating each of a plurality of segments (Si) of a light emitting device (24),

for generating and/or outputting the light animation, the plurality of segments (Si) are differently manipulated at a plurality of times (t) in respect of the photometric parameters (LD, LS) of the respective segment (Si),

the plurality of segments (Si) is controlled in such a way that the mean luminosity parameters (LD, LS) of the light-emitting device (10) over all segments (Si) for the light animation lie within a defined interval.

2. A light emitting device (10) according to claim 1, having a cover plate (12) configured as a shielding element for partially covering the light emitting device (24) with respect to its environment.

3. A light emitting device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the light emitting device (24) has an OLED (14) provided with a plurality of segments (Si), or the light emitting device (24) has a plurality of LED elements (16) as a plurality of segments (Si) provided with an optical element (20).

4. A light-emitting device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in a specified standard operating situation the plurality of sections (Si) each have the same light brightness (LD) and the same radiation characteristic within a specified tolerance level.

5. A light-emitting device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (40) is designed to operate the defined section (Si) with a defined light brightness (LD) for a defined period of time, wherein the light brightness (LD) is kept constant for the defined period of time.

6. The light-emitting device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (40) is designed to determine a partial section of the plurality of sections (Si) forming a closed curve.

7. The light-emitting device (10) according to claim 6, wherein the control unit (40) is designed to keep the respective first light intensities (LD1) of the sections corresponding to the closed curve constant and to change the respective second light intensities (LD2) of the sections corresponding to the inner region of the closed curve in order to achieve the light animation.

8. A light-emitting device (10) according to claim 6, wherein the control unit (40) is designed to keep the respective light intensities (LD) of the single or multiple segments corresponding to the closed curve constant within a specified time step.

9. The light-emitting device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (40) is designed to control the respective section (Si) using a control function (30), in particular a random function generated by means of a random number generator, wherein the control function (30) describes which section should have what light intensity (LD) at which time (t).

10. A light emitting device (10) according to claim 9, wherein the steering function (30) is determined by the control unit (40) such that the light intensity center is moved when the corresponding light animation is generated.

11. The lighting device (10) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the steering function is configured for a defined light animation and the light animation describes in particular a movement of a light intensity center of the light animation.

12. The light-emitting device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (40) is designed to vary the photometric parameters (LD, LS) of each individual segment (Si) by means of varying the respective voltage and/or the respective current applied across the individual segment (Si), in particular by means of PWM dimming of a plurality of segments (Si).

13. The lighting device (Si) according to one of the preceding claims, having a sensor (50) for measuring the temperature or the operating time of the light-emitting device (24), wherein the control unit (24) is designed to actuate and/or adjust the respective section (Si) of the light-emitting device (24) additionally as a function of the measured temperature of the light-emitting device and/or the operating time of the light-emitting device (24).

14. A motor vehicle (18) with a light-emitting device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A method for producing a light animation for a lighting device (10) of a motor vehicle, wherein the lighting device (10) has a light-emitting device (24) divided into a plurality of sections (Si), characterized in that:

-separately manipulating a plurality of segments (Si) of the light emitting device (24) such that the photometric parameters (LD, LS) of the light emitting device (10) lie within a defined interval, wherein the plurality of segments (Si) are manipulated differently in respect of the photometric parameters (LD, LS) of the respective segment (Si) at a plurality of instants (t) in order to generate and/or output a light animation, respectively.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle for producing a light animation. The invention also relates to a corresponding method for producing a light animation for a motor vehicle lighting device.

Background

The light function in motor vehicles is still currently usually implemented with incandescent lamps or, for some time, also with LED technology, especially in higher-grade motor vehicles. In the case of light emission with incandescent lamps, the advantage is a relatively modest production cost, while in the case of LEDs the advantage is a greater design possibility, a long service life and energy efficiency.

According to applicants' current recognition, none of the current light sources and point sources are capable of forming a surface light with constant luminance and radiance characteristics without additional optics. Furthermore, relatively subdivided sections cannot be produced in the light-emitting plane with currently existing light systems.

A relatively large dividing area is usually required between the individual luminous segments. In order to produce a homogeneous light emitting area, a large number of individual LED elements are usually arranged behind the diffusing material. As a result, the light of a large number of individual LED elements is scattered indefinitely and thus produces a visual impression of a uniform light emission surface. This is not the case with the measurement technique, which makes it possible to verify very high inhomogeneities in the light intensity. There are thus limitations in the design and animation of light functions.

For example, precisely implemented regions with different brightness cannot be displayed within the light-emitting area. Furthermore, the luminance distribution appearing on the light-emitting surface is also not constant. This may occur, for example, due to material tolerances in the diffuser, non-deterministic distribution of scattering particles, tolerances of the LED elements and positional deviations between the light source and the diffuser relative to each other. It can thus be ascertained, firstly, that it is currently not possible to display a light animation on a projection surface which corresponds to the specified photometric parameters. The photometric parameter can be, for example, the light intensity of the light-emitting area. The photometric parameter may also represent the light intensity distribution of the light emitting device.

In particular, in the area of motor vehicle rear lights, it is necessary for the respective rear lights to emit light of a defined light intensity. This is especially the case as stipulated by law. It is still desirable or necessary to be able to produce different light animations by means of the lighting device of the motor vehicle, for example with the aid of the rear lights, despite the defined photometric parameters.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the invention to provide a lighting device by means of which a light animation can be realized, while still complying with the prescribed photometric parameters of the lighting device.

This object is achieved according to the independent claims of the present application. Reasonable developments and alternative embodiments are given in the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

The invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle for producing a light animation. The light emitting device can additionally or alternatively output or show a light animation. The lighting device has a light emitting device for producing or showing a light animation. If the light-emitting device is configured as a rear light, for example, the rear light is used to display the motor vehicle and its width to the rear. Here, the light emitting device is divided into a plurality of sections. The plurality of segments may each be configured as a light source. Each individual segment can be configured as an independent light source. Thereby, the respective section may emit light. The control unit can thus be designed to control the plurality of segments or to control each individual segment separately. The photometric parameters of the respective sections are controlled, in particular adjusted or changed, by the control unit. Thereby, the control unit can adjust the lightness (leucothdchte) or lightness/brightness (Helligkeit) of each corresponding section. Thereby, the control unit is able to cause one or more segments to emit light differently. For example, the light emitting device may be divided into a plurality of equally large square areas. The shape and area of each section may be the same or different. Thus, polygonal, circular, oval, triangular or arbitrarily shaped segments can be provided. Furthermore, the respective sections may also differ in size.

The lighting device has a control unit which is designed to separately control each of a plurality of segments of the light-emitting device. This means, in particular, that the control unit can actuate each of the plurality of segments differently. The control is in particular the application of current and/or voltage to the respective section. This influences, in particular, the light intensity or brightness of the respective section.

The control unit is designed to actuate or adjust the plurality of segments differently at a plurality of times in relation to the photometric parameters of the respective segment in order to generate the light animation. The photometric parameter can include a value for the respective segment. For example, the photometric parameter may comprise a value relating to light intensity or to light brightness. It is thus possible to provide a separate value for the photometric parameter for each individual section. For example, all segments are identical and have, for example, 5cd/m²The same brightness. In this case, each segment has the same value in terms of luminance. The term "light animation" especially relates to the different manipulation of the segments of the light emitting device over time. This can be considered as a "sector status" at the respective moment. The different segment states at different times result in particular in a light animation. The corresponding manipulation of the segments in terms of photometric parameters may be referred to as "light distribution".

The control unit can adjust, control and/or regulate the light intensity or the light intensity of the respective section by means of the regulating current. A corresponding pulse width modulation of the individual segments is possible. The control unit can apply different current intensities or voltages to each individual section of the plurality of sections depending on the operating situation. Thereby, the control unit may set each segment with a different value in the photometric parameter. A variety of light animations can be shown by means of the light emitting device. The light emitting device has one or more light functions. The light function may be, for example, high beam, brake beam, flashing beam, tail beam, and/or projection beam. The light-emitting device can thus be configured as a headlight, a flashlight and/or a tail light.

The control unit is furthermore designed to control the plurality of segments in such a way that the average luminosity parameter of the lighting device over all segments for the light animation lies within a defined interval. The photometric parameter can in particular be constant. Thus, the predetermined interval may represent a constant value. By "constant" is meant that the value of the photometric parameter, for example the value of the light intensity or the value of the light brightness, is not always exactly equal to the constant value, but fluctuates around the constant value within the scope of the technical realizability. For example, a fluctuation of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, or 10% around a constant value also represents a constant value or represents a constant value. Thus, it is sufficient that the constant value is approximately constant.

Thus, each segment has an influence on the light parameter. The photometric parameter of the light emitting device is preferably an effective photometric parameter generated by the entirety of all sections of the light emitting device. The control unit can be designed to adjust or set the respective current intensity of the respective section such that the mean photometric parameter value, in particular the light intensity or the light brightness, of the lighting device over all sections lies within a defined interval or is approximately constant. Individual segments may be activated or produce light intensity depending on the steering situation. The luminance is less than the maximum possible luminance of the associated segment. It is thus not necessary that each segment must comply or satisfy the same photometric parameter or value thereof. The plurality of sections may be dynamically allocated into different groups by the control unit. Thereby, different spatial distributions of the segments may be obtained. The segments within a group may be manipulated identically. Thus, for example, the brightness of the segments can be increased in the first group and the segments can be dimmed in the second group to produce a light animation with a defined light intensity or brightness. The control unit can thus implement different intensity assignments in terms of photometric parameters for a section or for groups of sections.

The control unit preferably controls a plurality of or all of the segments in such a way that the available photometric parameters or the corresponding defined intervals are observed. Alternatively or in addition to the actuation, the control unit can also adjust the segments. The control unit can thus be configured to adjust the light intensity or the light intensity of a plurality of segments such that the average photometric parameter of the light-emitting device over all segments for any light animation lies within a defined interval. The light intensity of the respective section can be influenced or adjusted as a function of the respective current intensity applied to the respective section. In particular, the control unit may employ sensor data which is incorporated into the adjustment of the light intensity. The sensor data may be, for example, temperature data or operating time data of the section. By means of averaging, in particular, the effective photometric parameters of the lighting device can be determined or set.

The term "photometric parameter" can have different meanings. The photometric parameter may for example represent the light intensity. The light intensity is in particular the luminous flux within a defined solid angle. Thus, the light intensity can be expressed as a luminous flux per solid angle. The solid angle is preferably not a planar two-dimensional solid angle, but a three-dimensional solid angle given in solid curvature. Here, the SI unit for the light intensity is threshold (cd). In particular, the photometric parameter may relate to the light intensity only. Regulations or regulations relating to the lighting of motor vehicles, for example, specify the values of the light intensity of motor vehicle rear lights.

For example, in the european union official gazette of regulation (L285, 30/9 2014), it is mentioned that the minimum light intensity in the tail light is 4 bank. Since the regulations or ordinances relate to light intensity, the photometric parameters of the rear lights may also relate to light intensity. The same is true for other light emitting devices.

Alternatively or additionally, however, the term "photometric parameter" may also denote the brightness/luminance. Radiance is understood to be the amount of light emitted from a surface. Thus, the unit of luminance is Kammy per square meter (cd/m)²) And the unit of the light intensity is threshold (cd). Thus, the brightness is related to the surface. There are different starting points or elaborations with respect to the surface. In the context of the present application, any surface that emits light or emits light is always used in terms of light brightness. This is in particular the corresponding section of the light-emitting device. The "apparent" size of the surface or the viewed surface depending on external reference points is not considered within the scope of the present application. The light brightness in the context of the present application is thus the luminous flux emitted by the light-emitting surface (section of the light-emitting device). Although regulations or regulations relate to light intensity, the luminescence or light radiation of light-emitting devices is technicallyBy means of the different luminance of the respective segments. It is thus expedient in particular to base the photometric parameters on the respective section or the light intensity of the light-emitting device. In this case, however, the brightness of the respective section is preferably selected or set such that the defined light intensity of the lighting device or the rear light complies with legal requirements.

For the same reason, photometric parameters can also be based on luminous flux or illuminance. The illuminance can be understood as the light flux that reaches the illuminated surface. The surface is in particular a projection surface showing a light animation. The more light or light flux is directed from the light emitting device to the projection surface (cover plate abshlussscheibe), the greater the illuminance. In the context of the present application, the term "photometric parameter" preferably relates to the light intensity and/or the brightness of the light.

The control unit can individually control or adjust the light intensity of each individual segment such that the mean photometric parameter of the lighting device over all segments lies within a defined interval. The predetermined interval may have a lower limit value and an upper limit value, for example. In the case of a tail light as the light emitting device, for example, the lower limit value may be 4 thresholds. The upper limit value may be, for example, 17 thresholds. The light intensity of the rear light is therefore not necessarily precisely defined, but the luminosity parameters can lie within defined intervals. This defined interval is important in particular within the framework of motor vehicle licensing. It is thus an object of the present invention to achieve one or more different light animation or tail lamp states while still satisfying the specified permission conditions (specified photometric parameters within the interval). Since the photometric parameter must be within this interval, it is also commonly referred to as "interval permission" (Korridor-Zulassung).

Legal provisions or regulations may include other provisions related to photometric parameters that are relevant to the situation. Therefore, for example, a predetermined section different from the tail lamp of the automobile is applied to the high tail lamp of the truck. This can be taken into account by the control unit when actuating the respective section. It is thus possible to provide a rear light for a motor vehicle which not only meets legal requirements but also allows a plurality of light functions to be implemented. This can provide information to a pedestrian, for example. This is important in particular for fully autonomous motor vehicles. In this way, a fully autonomous motor vehicle can, for example, inform pedestrians: it will, for example, stop in time, a pedestrian can cross a lane. Messages may also be provided to the rear vehicle driver. For example, if a rear vehicle is driven too close to a vehicle having a light-emitting device according to the invention in the form of a tail light, it is possible to convey information to the rear driver that the distance between the two vehicles is too small. Corresponding information may be provided according to the corresponding light function. It is thereby possible to generate new optical effects by means of the lighting device and to provide a vehicle lamp with a high-quality look and feel.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides a lighting device with a cover plate, which can be provided as a projection surface of the lighting device for generating, outputting or displaying a light animation. The cover plate is usually arranged in the direction of the light rays emitted by the light-emitting device. Preferably, the cover is transparent. Additionally or alternatively, the cover plate may be configured for partially covering the shielding element of the light emitting device with respect to the environment of the light emitting device. In this case, the cover plate can be provided not only as a shield of the light-emitting device against environmental influences (for example moisture and dirt), but also additionally as an optical element. For example, the direction of the light rays emitted by the light-emitting device can be changed by means of a cover plate. This is achieved, for example, by the masking plates having corresponding refractive indices. This may allow additional degrees of freedom in the arrangement and geometry of the respective sections of the light-emitting device. Thus, for example, the segments can be arranged in a tiltable manner and, firstly, emit their respective light rays at a generally unusual angle. By means of the cover, the light rays emitted by the lighting device that are too obliquely directed are changed in their direction of propagation, so that the light emitted by the lighting device can be seen again clearly by other traffic participants. The cover plate can thereby focus the light beam radiated by the fan, for example. The light animation may be displayed or presented on the cover plate. But the light animation can also be shown without the cover plate. Communication with other traffic participants is thus possible by means of the lighting device, while still complying with the legal provisions.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides a light-emitting device, wherein the light-emitting device has an OLED provided with a plurality of segments or the light-emitting device has a plurality of LED elements as a plurality of segments provided with an optical element. A uniform surface light source can be formed by means of the optical element. Thereby, the inhomogeneous light can be converted into homogeneous light by means of the optical element, resulting in a homogeneous surface light source look and feel. The term OLED (organic light emitting diode) is mostly used as an abbreviation of the term organic light emitting diode. OLEDs are in particular light-emitting thin-layer structural elements made of organic semiconductor materials. The LED element is in particular an inorganic light-emitting diode. OLED light sources have been developed to be able to be used in the field of vehicle technology. OLEDs are particularly suitable for use in the present invention, since a uniform surface light source can be provided by means of OLEDs. A light emitting device having one or more OLED elements is capable of producing uniform surface light.

Such a uniform area light can be generated by the LED element in combination with the optical element. Thus, the inhomogeneous surface light of the plurality of LED elements can be converted into homogeneous surface light by means of the optical element. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the OLED is designed as a lambertian emitter. In this case, the luminance and the emission performance of each of the plurality of segments of the OLED are the same. The radiation properties relate in particular to the angular distribution of the emitted light. Therefore, not only the OLED but also a general LED element can be used to provide a uniform surface light source. Light animation can be produced and shown more simply by means of a uniform surface light source.

The term "light function" refers in particular to a corresponding light application on a motor vehicle. For example, tail light, brake light, high beam or low beam represent different light functions. In terms of the light of the rear light, it is preferable to use a light animation composed of a plurality of light distributions or segment states. In this case, a light animation is generated at a plurality of segment states at different times. A light animation may mean a plurality of light distributions in a prescribed time interval. A variety of light animations can be produced. The light animation can be generated or shown on the projection surface, for example on a cover plate. The cover can be designed as a transparent shielding element. In this case, the light animation or the light function can be seen directly and, in particular, no light animation is projected onto the cover plate. The time interval may comprise a plurality of time instants. A different light distribution can be achieved at each of these moments. The light distribution can be correlated both with time and additionally with position, i.e. the respective position on the projection surface. In particular, the light animation may be shown directly on the surface of the respective segment on the projection surface instead. In this case, the surface of the respective segment corresponds to the projection plane.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that, in a defined standard operating situation, the plurality of segments each have the same light intensity and the same radiation characteristic within a defined tolerance level. This applies in particular to uniform surface light sources. The radiation characteristic describes, in particular, how much light, that is to say how much luminous flux, emerges through a defined surface section or a defined solid angle. A surface light source which has been uniform so far has been particularly suitable as a uniform surface light source when the luminance differs from the corresponding average value by at most 10%. This embodiment provides, in particular, that the specified tolerance level is at most 2%. A reduction in tolerance levels can be achieved by manipulating multiple segments independently. This means that the fluctuation of the light brightness around the average value of the light brightness of the light emitting device is at most 2%. The criterion is preferably applied to each individual section of the light-emitting device. Thereby also a more accurate light animation can be generated or shown. The surface light sources which have been considered uniform to date, although appearing uniform to the human eye, nevertheless have fluctuations which can be ascertained from the measurement technology. This fluctuation can be further reduced by means of the light-emitting device described herein. This helps to provide a better standardized rear light for the motor vehicle.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the light-emitting device is designed as a lambertian emitter. Lambertian emitters are in particular light sources which emit light according to the lambertian principle. In a light-emitting device complying with the lambertian principle, the intensity of the emitted light is, although dependent on the direction of the emitted light ray, nevertheless the resulting luminance of the light is independent of the direction, i.e. in particular independent of the angle. The light-emitting device, which can be regarded as a lambertian emitter, simplifies the manipulation of the respective segments and thus the generation, output or display of the light animation. In order to implement a lambertian emitter as a light emitting device, the control unit may manipulate all segments in the same way. The advantages described in the preceding embodiments apply analogously to this embodiment.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the lighting device has a plurality of light-emitting devices, wherein the control unit is configured to generate a light animation of the plurality of light-emitting devices symmetrically with respect to a defined plane of symmetry during normal operation. In particular, an even number of light emitting devices may be provided. For example, these even number of light emitting devices may be arranged on the rear of the motor vehicle. The defined plane of symmetry is in particular parallel to the defined projection plane. A part of the even-numbered light emitting devices may be arranged on one side of the automobile and another part of the even-numbered light emitting devices may be arranged on the opposite side of the automobile. The defined plane of symmetry can in particular be perpendicular to the defined main radiation direction of the light-emitting device. In the case of a motor vehicle, the first light-emitting device may be arranged on a first side of the motor vehicle and the second light-emitting device may be arranged on a second side of the motor vehicle. The rear of the vehicle is here chosen as the reference point. In this embodiment, the light animations produced and shown by the first and second light emitting devices are symmetrical to each other with respect to the plane of symmetry. In this way, the other driver in the space behind the motor vehicle can perceive the light animation as symmetrical.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the control unit is designed to determine a partial section of the plurality of sections which forms a closed curve. Provision may be made for the control unit to determine a partial section of the plurality of sections: the light emitted by the partial section forms a closed curve on the cover plate. The closed curve may be, for example, circular, rectangular or triangular. In this case, the shape as a closed curve can likewise be arched or curved due to the arched shape of the cover. The closed curve can be referred to as a bounding surface/contour surface, by means of which the range for the light animation is defined. This helps to better see the light animation here. In particular, it is provided that the partial sections of the plurality of sections, in which the emitted light forms a closed curve, always produce a constant light intensity. The constant luminance of the portion of the plurality of segments is preferably constant over time. Thus, a static frame may be created within which the light animation is output, generated or shown. In particular, the light intensity of the respective section is varied and controlled in such a way that a continuous closed curve or rectangle of constant brightness is produced on the cover plate or the light-emitting device. In this case, the curve or rectangle can also be curved due to the defined curvature of the cover.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the control unit is designed to keep the respective first light intensities of the sections corresponding to the closed curve constant and to change the respective second light intensities of the sections corresponding to the inner regions of the closed curve in order to implement different light functions. Instead of the respective light intensity of the segments, the respective light intensity of the segments may be maintained or changed. In particular, the first or second light intensity is associated with the cover sheet. Accordingly, in this case it is not important which brightness or light intensity the respective section has, what is important is the light intensity of the emitted light animation. This embodiment can thus provide that the first or second light intensity, depending on the application, is associated with the respective section or cover. For example, the segment corresponding to the closed curve has a higher lightness than the segment corresponding to the inner region of the closed curve. The advantages and examples described in the above embodiments apply accordingly to this embodiment.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the control unit is designed to keep the respective light intensity of the individual or several segments corresponding to the closed curve constant within a defined time step. In this case, it is possible for only a part of the closed curve to emit light. In a further time step, other segments which should have a constant light intensity within the specified time step can be selected by the control unit.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the control unit is designed to control the respective segment using a control function, in particular a random function generated by means of a random number generator, wherein the control function describes which segment should have which brightness at which point in time. Instead of the light intensity, the control function can also relate to the light intensity. The different control functions are generally referred to as characteristic curves. The characteristic curve may be linear, square, sinusoidal, polynomial or based on other mathematical functions. Linear combinations of the mathematical functions for the manipulation functions are also possible. In particular, different control functions can be provided for each individual segment. A portion of the segments may be controlled or adjusted using the same steering function.

For example, the two sections may have different dimming gradients. The dimming gradient is in particular a linear characteristic curve. In this case, the dimming gradients can be designed opposite to one another, so that the same light intensity is always obtained over the entire light-emitting device. In the simple case of only two segments, the first segment may be dimmed (e.g., increasing the current intensity) while the second segment is dimmed by the same amount (e.g., decreasing the current intensity). The intensity of light emitted by these two segments remains constant in total. The principle for two individual segments can similarly be transferred to a light emitting device having a plurality of segments. The corresponding control function can be repeated arbitrarily in time or run as an infinite loop (Endlos-Schleife).

It is also possible to use more than two sections and multiple brightness levels. In particular, the number and position of the respective sections in the light-emitting device can be freely selected. Thereby, light emitting devices having more than 100 or even more than 1000 segments may be used. In particular, the segments can be manipulated at different brightnesses depending on their size, their position in the light-emitting device and/or the respective segment shape, in order to thereby achieve a defined constant light intensity. In this case, the respective characteristic curves or control functions of the individual segments can have the same slope, different slopes, uniform or varying slopes. Also, the slope of the characteristic curve of a partial section of the plurality of sections may be 0.

Random functions as steering functions can be generated by means of random generators (defined "random behaviors" ("Zufallsverhalten")/pseudo-random (pseudo-Zufall)). In this case, the stochastic function satisfies, in particular, the boundary conditions for complying with the specified photometric parameters. Thereby, a high quality impression of the light animation can be shown by means of the light emitting device. Depending on the desired light animation, all authentication-related parameters of the light emitting device can be kept constant and at the same time a dynamic light signature (Lichtsignatur) is shown. The light signs may be understood as light animations. By means of which (simple) symbols can also be shown. Here, the photometric parameters are preferably kept constant over the permissible form. This relates in particular to static-like optical cues. For example, tail light signs may be used in vehicle tail lighting. Thereby, a dynamic light animation can be achieved which is easily visible and draws more attention, while at the same time not being additionally dazzling like conventional lamps.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the control unit determines the control function in such a way that the light intensity center/light center of gravity (lichtschwenkt) is moved when the corresponding light animation is shown. The light intensity center can be defined similarly to the gravity center of gravity. In this case, the brightness of the respective light emission in particular in the illuminated section influences the position of the light intensity center. The position of the light intensity center can be dependent in particular on the number and distribution of the illuminated sections, the respectively realized brightness of the illuminated sections and the deactivated, i.e. dark, sections. In this case, the respective average of the light intensity over all sections of the light emission device results in particular in a light intensity center, taking into account the position of the respective section or of the assignable illuminated surface section on the cover plate. The light intensity center is thus understood to be the average of the respective positions of the sections or light-emitting surface sections, weighted by brightness or lightness. For determining the light intensity center, all segments of the light emitting device or a part of the entirety of the segments may be considered. In the case of a shift of the light intensity center, the plurality of light distributions preferably have different light intensity centers.

For determining the light intensity center, the relative brightness of the respective segment can be taken into account by means of a weighting factor. In the fully lit segment, the weighting factor for the corresponding average may be 1, with the weighting factor being 0 in the deactivated segment. Since each light distribution may have its own center of light intensity, the center of light intensity may be shifted by means of different light distributions having different centers of light intensity. Thus, for example, a light intensity center which runs from the outside inward can inform the other traffic participants of a danger situation.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the control unit is designed to control the respective section according to a defined brightness of the covering for the light animation. Accordingly, this embodiment provides that the control unit follows the specified light intensity of the cover. The control unit can in particular achieve a defined illuminance distribution on the cover plate. This is achieved, for example, by the control unit actuating the respective segments in such a way that a desired or defined illumination is achieved on the cover. In this embodiment, the brightness/optical density of the cover is considered rather than the brightness of the corresponding section. The photometric parameter in this case relates to the light intensity of the cover plate. The examples and advantages described in connection with the preceding embodiment apply correspondingly to this embodiment.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the control unit is designed to actuate the defined section with a defined brightness for a defined period of time, wherein the brightness is kept constant for the defined period of time. The defined sections may form a geometric figure. This may be, in particular, a geometric figure on the surface of the light-emitting device or on the cover plate. For example, the geometric figure may be a letter, character, or symbol. Each geometry may be assigned prescribed information about subsequent traffic. Acceleration, braking or turning can thus be displayed or communicated.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the control unit is designed to vary the luminosity parameters of each individual segment by means of varying the respective voltage and/or the respective current applied to the individual segment, in particular by means of PWM dimming of a plurality of segments. In this embodiment, the photometric parameters of the individual segments are changed. As described above, photometric parameters in this case mean, in particular, the brightness of light and/or the intensity of light. In this embodiment, individual segments of the light emitting device or OLED can be manipulated according to the desired light brightness. In this case, the respective brightness of each individual segment can be set by means of the respective current intensity for the individual segment. In this way, a simple actuation can be achieved by means of the control unit, since in the case of an OLED the change in the brightness of the light is relatively linear to the change in the intensity of the applied current. In short, it can be said that there is a linear relationship between the luminance of a segment and the intensity of the applied current of the segment.

Likewise, the luminance or brightness of each segment can be adjusted by varying the voltage applied across the respective segment. In particular, the intensity of the applied current may be varied in order to adjust, influence or adjust the brightness of the light of the respective segment. Advantageously, pulse width modulation can also be used in this embodiment. In this case, with respect to the amperage or voltage, a corresponding duty cycle or duty cycle may be defined for the applied amperage or voltage. Preferably, a rectangular signal can be used in pulse width modulation. The rectangular signal has in particular two values, namely state 0 for switching off and state 1 for switching on. The respective time intervals for state 0 and state 1 define the duty cycle or duty cycle herein. The light intensity for each individual segment can likewise be individually adjusted by means of pulse width modulation. The control unit can thus control a plurality of segments of the light-emitting device in terms of light brightness by means of pulse width modulation or pulse width dimming.

A further additional or alternative embodiment provides that the lighting device has a sensor for measuring the temperature of the light-emitting device or the operating time of the light-emitting device. The control unit is designed to control or regulate the respective section of the light-emitting device as a function of the measured temperature of the light-emitting device and/or the operating time of the light-emitting device. The control unit can adjust photometric parameters of the light-emitting device, in particular the light intensity, brightness or brightness, depending on sensor data, in particular the measured temperature and/or the operating time. The temperature of the light emitting device may especially be an average temperature of the light emitting device. In particular, the temperature of each individual section can be determined. From this, a plurality of temperature values can be obtained, which each indicate the temperature of the corresponding segment. From the plurality of temperature values, an average temperature for the entire light emitting device may be determined.

The operating time of the light-emitting device can be described in particular: how many time units the light emitting device has been running without interruption, or how many time units have elapsed since its manufacture. The time unit is here, in particular, an hour, a day or a year. The runtime can describe: how many time units the light emitting device has operated within a specified time frame. The sensor for temperature measurement can be realized, for example, by means of an NTC resistor or an NTC thermistor. In temperature sensors of this type, the respective temperature can be derived from the measured current. The control unit can thus take into account temperature effects and aging effects when operating the respective section. Thereby it is achieved that: a light emitting device is provided that meets legal requirements over its lifetime. Thereby, a light emitting device with the capability of showing light animation can be realized, which light emitting device realizes high quality and quality.

Another additional or alternative embodiment provides a motor vehicle having a light-emitting device according to one of the above-described embodiments. The light animation achievable by the light-emitting device can be used for communication with other traffic participants. In this case, increased attention can be drawn without disturbing dazzling of other traffic participants. The advantages and examples described in the above embodiments are correspondingly suitable for a motor vehicle having a lighting device. The light emitting device may have a plurality of tail lights or a plurality of other vehicle lights.

The control unit may have a processor device which is configured to execute the method or one of the preceding embodiments. The control unit may be part of a motor vehicle or the motor vehicle may comprise the control unit. The processor device can have at least one microprocessor and/or at least one microcontroller and/or at least one FPGA (field programmable gate array) and/or at least one DSP (digital signal processor) for this purpose. Furthermore, the processor device may have a program code which is configured to carry out an embodiment of the method according to the invention when executed by the processor device. The program code may be stored in a data memory of the processor device.

The invention also relates to a method for producing a light animation for a light emitting device. The method may additionally or alternatively be adapted for outputting or showing a light animation. The rear light has a light-emitting device which is divided into a plurality of sections. The method is characterized by separately controlling a plurality of segments of the light-emitting device, wherein the control is carried out in such a way that the photometric parameters of the light-emitting device lie within a defined interval. In this case, the plurality of segments are manipulated differently at a plurality of times in respect of the photometric parameters of the respective segment. Thereby outputting or producing, among other things, a light animation. The examples and advantages shown in the above-described embodiments likewise apply correspondingly to the methods shown, and vice versa. The functional features of the method can be regarded as corresponding device features. Likewise, device features may be considered corresponding method features.

Drawings

Now, the present invention is explained in detail based on the drawings. It should be noted here that the examples shown in the figures are particularly preferred embodiments, which, however, should not be understood as limiting the invention. The examples serve inter alia to illustrate how the invention can be applied or implemented.

The invention comprises a development of the method according to the invention having the features already described in connection with the development of the motor vehicle according to the invention. For this reason, corresponding modifications of the method according to the invention are not described again here.

The motor vehicle according to the invention is preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger or truck vehicle, or as a bus or a motorcycle.

The invention also comprises combinations of features of the described embodiments.

Drawings

Shown here are:

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary illustration of a motor vehicle having a tail light;

fig. 2 shows two tail lights as light emitting devices each having a different light emitting device;

fig. 3 shows sections of two examples of OLED light sources with corresponding steering functions;

FIG. 4 shows an example multi-zone system having zones provided with constant light intensity;

FIG. 5 shows an example light animation with a vertical light intensity center moving to the right;

FIG. 6 shows a light animation with horizontally extending light intensity centers; and

fig. 7 shows an exemplary method for a tail light.

Detailed Description

The examples explained below are preferred embodiments of the present invention. In the examples, the components of the embodiments described represent individual features of the invention which are considered to be independent of one another and which also improve the invention independently of one another. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to include other combinations of features than those of the illustrated embodiments. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by other of the features of the invention already described.

In the figures, like reference numerals designate functionally similar elements, respectively.

Fig. 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle 18 having a tail light 10. In the figure, the light emitting device 10 is configured as a tail light 10. The rear light 10 has a light-transmissive cover 12 and a light emitting device 24. The rear light 10 is used in particular as a light-functional rear light. The light emitting device 24 may have one OLED 14 or one or more LEDs 16. In the example of fig. 1, the light emitting device 24 has not only a plurality of LED elements 16 but also a plurality of OLED elements 14. The OLEDs 14 are in particular homogeneous surface light sources and can be designed as lambertian emitters in particularly advantageous embodiments. In this case, the luminance and the radiation performance (angular distribution) for each face unit (segment of the OLED 14) are the same. Preferably, the light emitting device 24 emits red light 22.

Fig. 2 shows, by way of example, how a surface light source can be produced by means of a plurality of LED elements 16. On the right in fig. 2, the light-emitting device 24 has only OLEDs 14. The light 22 emitted by the OLED is preferably uniform. The light 22 of the OLED 14 strikes the cover plate 12 in the further course. The shielding plate 12 may have a refractive index different from 1 for changing the propagation direction of the light 12 or the light ray 22 accordingly. The cover plate 12 can thus be configured as a lens. The light 22 has, inter alia, a wavelength that is visible as red light 22. In the example on the left side of fig. 2, the light emitting device 24 has two elements. Here, the plurality of LED elements 16 form a first unit of the light emitting device 24. A second unit of light emitting devices 24 is represented by optical element 20. The optical element 20 serves, in particular, to produce a uniform surface light source from the light 22 emitted by the plurality of LED elements 16.

The light 22 output by the optical element 20 preferably corresponds here to light which is similar to the OLED 14 with regard to its emission properties and luminance. The optical element 20 is arranged in the region of the LED element 16 in fig. 1. Since both the cover plate 12 and the optical element 20 are each light-transmitting, the optical element 20 is not visible in fig. 1. In the case of fig. 1 and 2, two light-emitting devices 24 are shown in a motor vehicle rear lamp with a cover plate 12. The motor vehicle rear lamp corresponds to a rear lamp. If the light-emitting device 24 is embodied as an OLED 14, this enables a very fine division between the individual segments.

In the context of the present application, the term "OLED" and the term "OLED light source" are to be understood as synonyms. Thus, the OLED 14 is a special form of light source. In the example of fig. 1, four different OLEDs 14 can be seen. The OLED 14 arranged furthest to the right is designed to be largest here. The right-hand OLED 14 is about 15 cm long, about 40 mm high and has 3 segments Si. However, OLEDs having significantly more segments Si can also be provided. That is, for example, OLEDs 14 having a light-emitting area of about 25 square centimeters and divided into about 1000 segments Si are intended to be used. Here, the index i indicates the corresponding number of the corresponding section.

In fig. 3, for example, a simple OLED 14 with only two segments Si is shown. The OLED 14 has a first section S1 and a second section S2. For simplicity, it is assumed that the OLED 14 has no other section Si. In this simple example, the two sections S1 and S2 have the same size and the same shape. However, the two sections S1 and S2 may have different brightness levels, that is, exhibit different luminance LDs. The different light intensities LD can be adjusted by means of the control unit 40. In the example of FIG. 3, section S1 is dimmed slightly relative to section S2. This state indicates a state at a predetermined time. The middle diagram of fig. 3 shows exemplary two possible steering functions 30 or characteristic curves 30 for the first and second sections S1 and S2. The steering function 30 has a time t on the x-axis and a light intensity LD on the y-axis. As can be seen well in fig. 3, the respective characteristic curve is designed to be linear. Instead of a linear characteristic curve 30 or a control function 30, more complex functions, such as polynomials or sinusoidal functions, can be used. As schematically shown by the steering function 30 of fig. 3, the brighter sections Sh are dimmed while the darker sections Sd are simultaneously dimmed with an opposite characteristic curve, so that the light intensity LS of the entire light emitting device 24 remains constant. In the simplified diagram of fig. 3, the light emitting device 24 is composed of only the first section S1 and the second section S2. The result of the inverse characteristic curve 30 of the steering function 30 shown in fig. 3 is the curve of the light intensity LS shown on the right in fig. 3. Here, the curve of the light intensity LS is stable and does not fluctuate.

In the case of different area ratios of the respective sections Si, compensation can be made by a correspondingly adjusted control function 30. Thereby, a constant light intensity LS of the light emitting device 24 can still be achieved. The steering function 30 may be repeated arbitrarily in time or run as an infinite loop.

In fig. 4, another embodiment having more than 2 sections and using multiple brightness levels is shown. In the case of fig. 4, the control unit 64 controls the segment Si. The control unit 40 may individually and independently manipulate the first section S1, the 64 th section S64, and all sections located therebetween. In the example of fig. 4, the sections S1, S8, S57, and S64 have the same luminance LD. In this case, it should be assumed that the respective luminance of the respective segments is 100% and the respective luminance of the four segments is the same. In FIG. 4, four segments S1, S8, S57, and S64 define a frame 45 within which light distribution, segment status, or light animation can be produced. Contrary to the illustration of fig. 4, the number and position of the individual segments Si can be arbitrary. In order to comply with the specified photometric parameters LS, LD, the respective segments Si are loaded with different optical brightnesses LD depending on the size, position and/or shape of the respective segments Si. The defined photometric parameter is in particular a legally defined light intensity LS for the rear light 10 of the motor vehicle 18.

Accordingly, in the example of fig. 4, the four sections S1, S8, S57, and S64 emit light at the same maximum luminance LD. In this case, the control unit 40 adjusts the light intensity LD of the remaining section Si of the OLED 14 in such a way that a defined light intensity LS is observed. This is achieved, for example, by means of a corresponding linear steering function 30, which may be referred to as a dimming gradient. To produce other light animations or light distributions, a random number generator can be used which generates corresponding random functions for manipulating the plurality of segments. The random function thus generated, however, satisfies the boundary condition that the light intensity LS emitted via the OLED 14 or by the rear light 10 has a defined value or that its light intensity value lies in a defined interval.

Each of the segments shown in fig. 4, except for the four edge segments S1, S8, S57 and S64, can be controlled by the control unit 40 using a respective dimming gradient or a respective control function. This is achieved, for example, by varying the current or voltage applied to the respective section Si. The luminance of the segment Si or the four edge segments may be temporarily or continuously between 0% and 100% of the maximum luminance LD of the segment. The current or applied voltage may be adjusted by means of pulse width modulation or pulse width dimming. Instead of the four shown edge sections, edge curves forming the frame 45 can be specified. In this case, in particular those sections Si of the OLED 14 are selected which result in a closed curve on the cover plate 12. The dashed curve shown in fig. 4 indicates a possible edge region of the covering panel 12 forming the frame 45. The segments Si belonging to the frame 45 can emit light LD with the same predetermined brightness as in the segments S1, S57, and S64. In this case, it is simply assumed that the frame 45 or the corner points shown in fig. 4 are likewise projected onto the cover plate 12 without distortion. The control unit 40 can take into account, in particular, the imaging criterion by which the light 22 emitted by the segments Si is distributed to the surface segments on the cover plate 12.

In another embodiment, the edge sections S1, S8, S57 and S64 may change their light luminance LD over time. The edge sections S1, S8, S57 and S64 may emit light at different intensities at different times, respectively. Thus, a "dynamic frame" within which another light animation is generated or shown may be output. Thus, in order to show the frame 45, it is not necessary that the edge sections S1, S8, S57 and S64 must emit light in a constant manner. The segments S1, S8, S57 and S64 may vary in their light brightness LD or be loaded with different currents at different times t by the control unit 40 accordingly, resulting in a time-varying light brightness LD accordingly.

Fig. 5 exemplarily shows a light animation in which the light intensity center LW is moved rightward. The light intensity center LW does not have to be a single point or a single segment Si. As shown in fig. 6, the light intensity center LW may have a spatial extension. In FIG. 5, segments are denoted as Sh or Sd, respectively. Here, Sh denotes a bright segment, and Sd denotes a dark segment. Of course, other gradations between Sh and Sd may also be achieved in terms of the luminance LD. However, such intermediate stages may be omitted for simplicity.

The OLED 14 shown in fig. 5 is divided into four regions. In the region I, the number of dark sections is the largest compared to other regions. Accordingly, the number of bright segments Sh in the first region I is minimal compared to the other segments Si. It is evident along the animation direction AR that the number of bright segments Sh increases by region. In the second region II of the OLED 14, the relative number of bright segments Sh has been increased with respect to the first region I. In the fourth region IV, only the bright segments Sh can also be seen. This results in that the light intensity center LW is not at the face of the OLED 14 or at the center of the cover plate 12, but moves slightly to the right. Thereby, a light animation can be produced whose light intensity center moves along the animation direction AR. The same principle can be applied to the example of fig. 6. In the case of fig. 6, the light intensity center is no longer a single small area or point, but has a long extension. In the case of fig. 6, the light intensity center LW is shown as a light straight line. In fig. 6, two opposite animation directions AR are shown. The opposite animation direction AR means that the light intensity LS increases from the upper end and the lower end of the OLED 14 towards the middle of the OLED 14. The changes in the light intensity center LW shown in fig. 5 and 6 can be used in a targeted manner for transmitting information to other traffic participants. Thus, for example, acceleration or too close a distance can be shown. This makes it possible to produce other dynamic light animations which can be seen better and draw more attention, without additionally being dazzled as often occurs with conventional lamps. At the same time, certain visual effects can be produced for other traffic participants in a targeted manner. This is achieved by means of a corresponding shift of the light intensity center LW, as shown in fig. 5 and 6.

Fig. 5 and 6 show an exemplary sensor 50. The sensor 50 can detect or measure, in particular, the temperature of the OLED 14 or the temperature of each individual segment Si. Also, the sensor 50 may measure the operating time of the OLED 14 or the light emitting device 24. The running time describes, in particular, the number of running hours of the light-emitting device 24 or the time elapsed since the light-emitting device 24 was manufactured. By means of the measured temperature of the respective section Si or by means of the average temperature for the entire light-emitting device 24, possible temperature effects of the light-emitting device 24 can be taken into account when operating the respective section Si. By measuring the running time, aging effects can likewise be taken into account when operating the respective section Si. The aging effect is related, for example, to a particular resistance in the lines to the respective section Si. By means of this line, the respective section Si can be acted upon by an electric current or a voltage. The control unit 40 can thus take into account temperature effects and aging effects by correspondingly actuating the respective section Si. Therefore, the material fatigue phenomenon can be compensated for and a rear lamp 10 whose service life can be further improved is realized. The temperature of the OLED 14 can be measured, for example, by means of an NTC. The speed of the light animation can likewise be adjusted by means of the control unit 40. Thus, slow light animation and faster light animation can be realized with higher dynamics.

In fig. 7, a possible method for actuating the respective section Si is shown by way of example. In a first step ST1, the necessary components are provided for the method. This mainly relates to the control unit 40 and the light emitting device 24 with the dependent section Si. In a second step ST2, the temperature and/or the operating time of the OLED 14 or the light-emitting device 24 can be measured, for example, by means of the sensor 50. This information or value is transmitted to the control unit 40. In a third step ST3, control unit 40 generates a corresponding control signal for the corresponding section Si. For this purpose, the control unit 40 can determine a corresponding control function 30. By means of the control function 30, in a fourth step St4, the respective segment Si can be controlled such that its respective light intensity LD is changed in such a way that a respective light animation results therefrom. Here, the control unit 40 considers: the luminosity parameters averaged over all sections Si for the light animation, which are the rear lights of the lighting device 10, lie within a defined interval.

As indicated by way of example in fig. 5 and 6, the control unit 40 controls the different sections Si. In both figures, two dashed arrows each extend from the control unit 40 to the respective section Si of the OLED 14. This means, for example, that the control unit 40 can control each of the individual segments Si of the OLED 14. For the sake of clarity only two dashed arrows are shown, respectively.

In general, the invention shows that light animation can be carried out by means of segmented OLEDs 14. Also other surface light sources with similar technical characteristics as OLED technology can be used. In this case, the light brightness LD of the respective segment Si of the OLED 14 is set by means of the input current. In this way, the control unit 40 can control each of the individual sections Si individually and thus provide each individual section Si with its own light brightness LD. The correspondingly adjusted light intensity LD is preferably varied over time. In this way, a new dynamic light animation can be generated, which can be used in a targeted manner for achieving a visual effect. For example, traffic-related information can be informed purposefully to the other traffic participants by means of the movement of the light intensity center LW. This type of information transmission is important in particular in the field of fully autonomous motor vehicles 18.