HELLA completes HipE headlamp research project

Project described as a step toward a fully adaptive lighting system based on laser technology

HELLA completes HipE headlamp research project
HipE project laser scanner.

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA, a globally leading automotive supplier for lighting and electronics, and the Fraunhofer Application Centre for Inorganic Phosphors in Soest, Germany, are co-developing a prototype lighting system for the future, based on laser technology.

The HipE (highly innovative pixelated phosphors for laser-based emissions in headlamps) research project was funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) over a period of three years and was successfully completed in February 2019.

To project the light exactly where the driver needs it when driving on public roads, as well as detect potential hazards earlier, so that they can be avoided as quickly as possible, a fully adaptive, high-resolution light distribution system that can adapt to the traffic situation at hand in real time, is required.

To this end, both the headlamp and corresponding sensor system must be fitted to the vehicle.

At the same time, the system must meet heightened requirements when it comes to packaging, efficiency and illumination quality.

It is in this context that the Fraunhofer Application Centre for Inorganic Phosphors tested different materials with respect to their suitability as part of the HipE research project, with particular regard to their conversion characteristics and heat propagation.

The materials were then structured using a femtosecond laser, the removal parameters optimised, the contrast was increased and the heat propagation in the pixelated phosphor was analysed.

During the course of the research project, HELLA designed and built a prototype for a high-resolution headlamp module incorporating a laser light source for subsequent use in the headlamp assembly.

The lighting and electronics expert also checked which optical systems are suitable for meeting the requirements for a more compact design and greater efficiency.

As a result, it can be stated that structuring the phosphors can significantly improve the contrast between two pixels.

To fully meet the requirements of a headlamp application, however, additional measures must be subsequently implemented to improve the contrast still further.

The two project partners will continue to work together on this at the conclusion of the research project.

To find out more about HELLA, select the ‘more details’ link.

Have your say!

0 0

Lost Password

Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.