Abstract
Within the last decade we have noticed considerable improvements in Automotive lighting devices.
Xenon headlights, Systems with low beam and high beam out of one Xenon bulb, so called Bi-Function headlights and in the near future, advanced front lighting systems (AFS) will lead to an important contribution in terms of safety when driving at night. In rear lamps and centre high mounted stop lamps the application of LEDs have also contributed to more safety due to the short rise time and the shorter braking distances involved.
In parallel the philosophy of automotive engineering has changed from individual technical solutions contributing to improved value within the vehicles to a system integration concept, where individual technical solutions will be combined to one specific innovation.
The use of various sensors and information tools for different and multiple applications within a vehicle is highly appreciated and will lead to synergies with reduced costs for the individual components. This philosophy will also be applied for lighting systems in the future. Due to the various new technical solutions for exterior lighting, stylists have more freedom in degree to realize their ideal appearance for future vehicles.
Freshening models, face lifts etc. of current vehicles are often accompanied with new front lights or rear lights. Clear lens design, frequently use of projector units, both for halogen as well as Xenon light sources and special solutions for position light with fiber optics and fresnel lenses are to be seen.
This specific trend in automotive lighting will be described by means of different examples. Automotive lighting will be described as a real challenge for engineers to create system-integrated solutions with attractive appearance and styling opportunities.