Discharge Light Source - The Basis for Fibre Optics Automotive Lighting

The recently developed technology of micro-discharge lamps allows to realize high-efficient metal halide lamps with low power consumption and high lighttechnical quality. Because of their compact construction and superior optical performance they are the base for optimized lighting systems for special lighting purposes in a number of applications. In a special study project Philips Lighting investigated the opportunities of automotive lighting with fiberoptic systems. Main aspect of the study was to adapt the light source for optimal system performance. The results showed that it is possible to realize different lighting applications as headlamps and dashboard lighting with one central light source. In an evaluation of different optical configurations the influence of the lightsource on the total system efficiency will be shown. The combination of a micro discharge lamp with an ellipsoidal reflector allowed to reach sufficient system efficiency to fullfil the requirements for car headlamp systems. The flexibility and compact profile of such a fiber optic system leads to new possibilities for advanced car design.