LED Matrix Systems – First application and outlook

Dr. Michael Kleinkes

Development Lighting Technology

Hella KGaA Hueck &. Co

Lippstadt, Germany

Michael.Kleinkes@hella.com

Zhiwen Yang

Lighting Technology Optics

Hella Cooperate Center China

Nanjing, China

Zhiwen.Yang@hella.com

Abstract— The technology of automotive light systems is developing rapidly. More and more functions have been developed or are under development (e.g. adaptive Cut-off-Line, glare free high beam, marking light, predictive bending light). These functionalities can be realized by using Halogen- or Xenon lamps, LEDs or Laser.

In this range the latest innovation is based on adressable LED-Arrays in the Audi A8, which leads to the world first, mechanical free dynamic  headlamp with high end functionality (glare free high beam). The LED-Matrix System consists of five individual controlled LED high beam segments, where Diodes are dimmed and activated/de-activated independently based on camera signals and control unit activation according to traffic/driving situation. The end consumer can easy understand the difference to other LED or HID/Xenon solutions by just observing the headlamp activity – showing a “living” appearance.

As a starting point for this article, the Audi A8 and the functionality will be explained. Then the article will focus on the next steps for the development of LED-Arrays, the possibilities, the advantages and generally speaking the evolution for such systems.

Keywords- Adaptive Driving Beam, Static and dynamic solutions, Safety benefit, LED-Array