Search Results

1 Valuation of a light distribution before building prototypes is one of the future tasks of headlamp development. The objective comparison of different headlamps but also the consideration of human factors like physiological parameters should be supported by software tools. Therefore a new program system has been developed, that allows the rating of a beam pattern under different traffic conditions. Basis of the calculation is the light distribution of the lamp, high and/or low beam. This can be both, the result of the simulation tool “Helios” or the data of the headlamp measurement. The first step is the calculation of a photorealistic picture with accurate luminance values. Therefore a large set of different parameters are given in a library, the user has the possibility to define his own street geometry and situation.

Light distributions of headlamps have a large influence on the areas of fixation of drivers at nighttime. Physiologigal factors of the perception cause a fixation in bright areas in the field of vision. The illumination of the road scene and therewith the luminance of the road and the objects is depending on the light distribution of the headlamp. The paper shows the influence of typical light distributions of different types of headlamps on the visual strategy of drivers. It trys to answer the question “Is it possible to influence the drivers field of viewing?” In a second part it deals with the question of the influence on the driving behaviour and the safety feeling of drivers.

Light distributions of headlamps are defined as static values. Neither FMVSS nor ECE allow variable beam pattern for low beam headlamps. New electronic systems and sensors available for car applications facilitate a situative. lighting that prepares an optimum lighting for each driving Situatuion. This paper shows the necessity of different beam patterns for certain driving situations. Based on an road geometry analysis and an investigation of objects in the street the optimum ligh! dictrihutionr are carried out for the single situations.

Systematic analysis of road situations within Europe sheds new light on future requirements for forward lighting. Road markings, traffic signs and other objects to be illuminated reside in well defined areas of the visual field. Objects not to be illuminated, such as oncoming drivers, also take up distinct areas. A new dipped beam can provide better vision and less glare. The curved cut-off for the new dipped beam has proven its quality throughout road tests. It is, however, not permitted by ECE regulations up to now, but the “Advanced Front lighting System” project could make improvements of this kind possible.