Remote HID headlamp system options

Bringing the performance benefits of new technology to mainstream vehicle segments put demands on development engineering.

The high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlamp provides significantly more light than traditional headlamps, giving a sense of security similar to that of driving during the day. There are complex reflector-type, projection-type, and parabola and lens optics-type HID headlamps in the market. They require two HID bulbs and two ballasts per vehicle. However, the best of such systems in today's market provide only about 23 lm/W on the road. In addition, HID headlamps are heavy, costly, and expensive to replace. Hence, widespread application of HID headlamps remains limited.

Remote lighting systems (RLSs), also known as distributive lighting systems (DLSs), present an opportunity to standardize light collection optics by separating them from the distribution optics, which are sensitive to the vehicle exterior styling. RLSs offer low-cost HID lighting; reduced energy consumption, weight, and package depth; increased styling flexibility; modularity; improved beam pattern control and heat management; low replacement cost; and possible dynamic control of lighting.