Abstract:
A sun visor assembly for an automotive vehicle has a sun visor panel and at least one lighting element flush mounted on the sun visor panel. The lighting element is an electroluminescent film electrically connected to a triggering device for energizing the electroluminescent film illuminating the sun visor panel.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0001]    1. Field of the Invention  
           [0002]    The invention relates to a lighting device.  
           [0003]    2. The Prior Art  
           [0004]    Such a lighting device is known as a flexible, self-adhesive film brake light for motor vehicles according to DE 297 06 601 U1. This consists of a thin flexible film which is intensely illuminative and reflective, can be attached in a self-adhesive manner to the rear or rear window of the motor vehicle, and is supplied via a transformer with voltage through cable connections and connection to a brake light cable. A disadvantage in this respect is the rather low light intensity in such films according to present prior art, which at present corners to about 200 Candela/m 2 , and the low durability of the films, so that failures frequently occur.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0005]    The object of the invention is now to provide a lighting element in which the light intensity is considerably increased,, and whose structure offers the greatest possible protection against mechanical damage.  
           [0006]    The object of the invention is achieved by the lighting device, wherein the lighting element is disposed on a carrier film, which has on an upper side facing said carrier film a surface structure forming reflectors, or is provided with a reflective coating. The surprising advantage in this respect is that by means of using a carrier film reducing the radiation losses an increased lighting intensity is achieved, so that the lighting element can be used also in those areas where specific minimal values do not permit the use of films known at present.  
           [0007]    In other embodiments, the carrier film is in the form of a vibration and/or shock-absorbing damping layer. Moreover it is advantageous that the lighting element is immovably connected, i.e. thermally glued to the carrier layer, or the lighting element is attached to the carrier film, or the lighting element is connected to the carrier film via an intermediate layer, e.g. an adhesive layer. It is also possible for the carrier film to be roughly U-shaped, and to form a receiving means for the lighting element. The advantage of these designs is that universal applicability of the lighting element is achieved by the low space requirements demanded by the overall structure, so that bulky assembly channels, which are expensive to form, and which in addition in previous lighting systems must be easily accessible for servicing and changeover of defective lamps, etc., are now eliminated. Such assembly channels also incur high costs in manufacture and precise coordination of materials which are suitable for deformation in order to provide such assembly channels. The invention may be used in a series of applications, e.g. for lighting and/or illuminating interior spaces, for formation of advertising messages, signs relating to danger points, emergency exit paths, without specific assembly measures. In this respect the flexibility of such lighting elements also plays a decisively positive part, as it is possible to attach them easily to spatially curved surfaces, and also to a high degree damage is effectively avoided.  
           [0008]    In a further embodiment, the film forming the lighting clement is formed with the carrier film as an integral injection-moulded part. Moreover it is advantageous that the injection-moulded part is formed firm a plastics material composite of at least two electrically conductive layers connected by an electrically non-conductive insulating layer. An advantage in this respect is that in this way high quality and reliable compact elements may be manufactured particularly economically, and the desired shape and size suitable for the respective example of use can be achieved without substantial restrictions. Compact elements produced in this way are particularly suitable for mass production, as is desirable nowadays for the large batch numbers required.  
           [0009]    A further advantage of the lighting device is that there is disposed on a surface of the film opposite the carrier film a transparent covering layer, e.g. a coloured film. An advantage in this respect is that in this way lighting fields, which emit lights of differing colours for purposes of differentiation, such for example as rear light units for motor vehicles, can be combined to form extremely compact units.  
           [0010]    An advantageous design is characterised in that the covering layer is provided on one surface, preferably on a surface facing away firm the film with a surface structure, e.g. crystalline particles for scattering the traversing light, or the covering layer is structured on one surface, preferably on a surface facing the electroluminescent film, in a lens shape in order to focus traversing light beams. An advantage in this respect is that in his way, as required, in accordance with the respective purpose of use of the lighting element, the emitted light beams may be given a specific direction.  
           [0011]    A further advantage of the lighting device is that the carrier film is disposed with the film and covering layer in a vibration- and shock-absorbing peripheral layer encompassing a front and rear surface. Moreover it is advantageous that a protective layer, particularly of reversibly deformable plastic, is disposed on one surface of the film or on tile covering layer laid over it. It is of advantage that in this way the lighting element can be used even at high-risk positions, e.g. in the corner area of vehicles, etc., as these latter represent a how risk of damage.  
           [0012]    In a fitter embodiment, light-guiding devices, e.g. reflectors, are disposed in the protective layer, so that a further substantial influence on the light beams is possible in accordance with the requirements in the respective envisaged use.  
           [0013]    A advantageous design is characterised in that the covering layer is designed as a connecting layer for securing the lighting clement in a casing portion, e.g. in a portion of the bodywork of the vehicle, particularly of a motor vehicle, in which way, according to one design as described in claim  15 , expensive assembly elements and constructive measures can be eliminated in its use.  
           [0014]    A further advantage of the lighting device is that the lighting element may be powered via the supply and/or triggering device by pulses, particularly by low-frequency voltage pulses. It is further possible for the pulses to be formed from high-frequency pulses, particularly of a high-frequency alternating voltage. It is also possible for the frequency of the alternating voltage to be between 500 and 50 kHz. An advantage in this respect is that on the one hand the life duration of the lighting clement is thereby increased, in that the chemical decomposition process of tie elements is delayed by the phased pulses, which affect the inorganic or organic particles in the film. Furthermore, the light intensity may be considerably increased thereby.  
           [0015]    A development is also possible in which a plurality of lighting elements operated independently of one another are combined in one casing portion, e.g. a portion of the bodywork of a vehicle, to form a lighting device. It is further possible for the lighting device to be acted upon by supply and/or triggering devices which are operated independently of one another. An advantage in this respect is that a wide field of application is achieved and possible designs awe afforded, enabling unrestricted design fur the lighting unit and thus also for the objects on or in which these latter are lo be used.  
           [0016]    It is further of advantage that the entire spectrum of the lighting elements necessary in or on a vehicle, which emit a permanent light or a flashing light in corresponding environmental circumstances, is covered.  
           [0017]    The disposition of such a lighting device with the lighting element in or on rear-view mirrors for indicating intended alterations in direction, i.e. as an additional signal flasher, is advantageously achieved in that these lighting elements require little space in their incorporation and structure, and the necessary supply and/or triggering devices can be optionally integrated at any point on the vehicle, or when designed in a hybrid manner may be integrated directly in the lighting element without the necessity for cable guides. In such a case only supply from the energy source is necessary which, due to the low energy requirement of such lighting elements, cause only a small outlay. Due to the possibilities of shaping, such lighting elements are suitable for outer surfaces of the casing of rear view mirrors, as they may be turned around end faces and thus flashing signals are clearly visible to both approaching and following vehicles and even during an overtaking procedure. Thus such, lighting elements can also make a considerable contribution to increasing safety in traffic.  
           [0018]    A further substantial advantage of all these advantageous solutions resides in the low energy requirement for such lighting elements and also in the fact that, in comparison to previous lighting arrangements, they radiate almost no heat and therefore can be made of less temperature-resistant materials without special ventilation measures or measures for heat removal. Due to this very considerable advantage, such lighting elements are also suitable as background illumination for instruments and instrument channels; here also the low space requirement plays a substantial part in their effective use.  
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0019]    For better understanding of the invention, it is described in more detail with reference to the embodiments given by way of example and shown in the drawings. Shown are:  
         [0020]    [0020]FIG. 1: the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified schematic view;  
         [0021]    [0021]FIG. 2: an embodiment in the form of a vehicle of the lighting-device according to the invention in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0022]    [0022]FIG. 3: a further embodiment of the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 4: another embodiment of the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified, schematic view,  
         [0024]    [0024]FIG. 5: an embodiment or the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 6: a side view an embodiment of the lighting device according to the invention according to FIG. 5;  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 7: a further embodiment of the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0027]    [0027]FIG. 8: a pictorial illustration of a further embodiment of the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified view;  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 9: a plan view of the embodiment according to FIG. 8 in cross-section and in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 10: a further pictorial view of a field of application of the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 11: a rear view of the embodiment according to FIG. 10 in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 12: a circuit diagram for control of the lighting device according to the invention, in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 13: a diagram of a signal configuration for triggering the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified, schematic view;  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 14: a further embodiment of a construction of the lighting device according to the invention in a simplified, schematic view. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0034]    It should initially be stated that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts have been provided with identical reference numerals or identical component titles, the disclosures contained in the entire description being logically transferable to identical parts with identical reference numerals or identical components titles. In addition, the details of position selected in the description, such for example as top, bottom, lateral, etc. refer to the FIG. directly described or illustrated, and upon an alteration in position are to be logically transferred to the new position Furthermore, individual features from the various embodiments shown can represent independent solutions according to the invention.  
         [0035]    In FIG. 1, a lighting device  1  is shown inserted in a receiving means  2  of a casing portion  3 . The lighting device  1  substantially consists of a lighting element  4 , which consists of an at least double-layered electro-luminescent film  5  and is connected over the entire surface via an intermediate layer  6  to a carrier film  7 . The carrier film  7  preferably encompasses the film  5  in the area of its surrounding edge faces  8 . On an upper side  9  facing the film  5 , the carrier film  7  has a surface structure which forms reflectors  10 , which reflect the light beams emerging from the film  5 . Such reflection is also to be achieved by a so-called reflective coating, as also with a reflection coating  11 , e.g. a mirror finish of the upper side  9 . On a surface  12  opposite the upper side  9  of the carrier film  7  there is disposed, preferably on the film  5 , a transparent cover layer  13 , e.g. a plastic film. This covering layer  13 , depending on the light effects required, can be provided on a surface  14 ,  15  facing, or facing away from the film  5 , with coatings for scattering or focusing the traversing light beams. Such coatings can be provided with crystal particles, or a surface structure can be provided which forms a lens structure covering the entire surface. For further protection of the lighting element  4 , there may preferably be disposed on a front surface  15  of the covering layer  13  a further protective layer  17 , e.g. of transparent, break-resistant resiliently reversible plastic. In order to achieve further light effects, there may preferably be provided in this protective layer  17  the optical elements, e.g. reflectors  18 , etc., influencing the light radiation. Furthermore, there may be provided between the carrier film  7 , which is preferably formed from a vibration- and shock-absorbing plastic, and the casing portion  3 , as shown in FIG. 1, a cover layer  19  as a connecting layer  20  simplifying assembly and absorbing deformation forces, and which for example consists of a self-adhesive permanently elastic plastic material. Via contact terminals  21 ,  22 , the layers of the film  5  arc contacted with cables  23 ,  24 , which further lead to a supply and/or triggering device  25 , which arc connected to a power source  26 .  
         [0036]    The lighting element  4  comprising film  5  and carrier film  7  has in all a thickness  27  of only a few millimeters. Thus there results for incorporation of such a lighting device, a depth  28  in the range between 5 and 20, preferably about 10 mm, so that said lighting device  1  may be used in a versatile manner and requires no outlay in assembly terms. It is also possible rapidly to interchange the entire lighting device  1 , although this, due to the robustness and long-life duration of the individual elements, is not normally necessary during the period of use of an appliance, particularly a vehicle. The lighting device  1  with lighting element  4  is therefore usable in many ways, and may be operated with a low energy requirement. A long life duration and increased light intensity arc achieved by special circuitry measures, as will be described later.  
         [0037]    [0037]FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the lighting device  1 . For this purpose a plurality of the lighting elements  4  described above arc disposed on a rear portion  29  of a vehicle  30 .  
         [0038]    In this respect the lighting elements  4  may have different shapes for the most varied purposes of use on the vehicle  30 , i.e. for example when the lighting element  4  is used for a flashing device  31 , the lighting element  4  is designed in the form of arrows. In this respect it is possible when the lighting element  4  is used for a brake light  32 , for the latter to be designed in a rectangular form as known from prior art with normal lamp-operated brake lights  32 , and can be disposed over a large area on the rear portion  29  of the vehicle  30 .  
         [0039]    Due to the simplicity of working the lighting device  1 , it is now possible for additional brake lights  33  to be disposed on the frame  34  of the vehicle chassis  35 , particularly in the case of a truck. As any optional shape may be produced for such a lighting device  1 , so that an additional lighting device  1  can be positioned for a further brake light  33  on the frame  34  of the vehicle chassis  35 , without great expense on the vehicle chassis  35 , particularly on the frame  34 , without the necessity for undertaking special structures on the roof  36  of the vehicle  30  as with prior art, i.e. by designing the additional brake lights  33 , the lighting device  1  is produced in a longitudinal direction, so that a correspondingly large surface on the vehicle structure  35 , particularly on the frame  34  can be utilised, without, as is known from prior art, the necessity of using the vehicle doors  37 ,  38  or a roof structure. If a lighting device  1  were disposed on one of the two vehicle doors  37 ,  38 , then a high outlay would be incurred for power supply to the lighting device  1 , in order to avoid faults at the points of contact. Naturally it is possible for the lighting device  1  to be disposed also on the vehicle doors  37 ,  38  as a symbol or an additional lighting device.  
         [0040]    It is further possible to use the lighting device  1 , particularly the lighting element  4  as a reversing light  39 . In this respect as shown for example on the vehicle  30 , it is possible for the reversing lights  39  to be circular in shape.  
         [0041]    Due to the various arrangements and fields of application of the lighting elements  4 , it is possible for such elements  4 , simply or in part, to emit different colour signals, as is known from prior art. For example it is possible in this case for the flasher device  31  to emit a yellow light in the form of flashing signals, whilst the brake lights  32 ,  33  emit a red light and the reversing lights  39  give out a white light. It is also possible for the vehicle  30 , as is prescribed by law, to be fitted with a rear lamp  40  in the form of the lighting device  1 , so that during night journeys this rear Light, with projectors disposed on the base, emits a permanent red light.  
         [0042]    It is also possible, for example, also to dispose lighting devices  1 , particularly the lighting elements  4  on the rear-view mirrors  41 ,  42  of the vehicle  30 , so that the legally prescribed lateral flashing lights can be omitted.  
         [0043]    The advantage of using the lighting device  1 , particularly the lighting elements  4  for illuminating the vehicle  30  resides in the fact that due to the thin layered structure of the lighting element  4 , these can be attached to smooth surfaces of the vehicle  30 , or only small hollowed portions need be provided on the bodywork portions, so that cost-effective manufacture of the vehicle  30  is guaranteed. It is also possible, due to the thin design of the lighting elements  4 , to retro-fit the vehicles  30  in a cost-effective mariner and in a simple form with additional lights. A further advantage resides in the fact that due to the flexible design of the lighting device  1 , said lighting device  1  is not destroyed upon contact with other articles, but that it adapts to the deformation of the bodywork parts, so that the lighting device  1  will not break or require to be replaced when the bodywork parts revert to their original shape.  
         [0044]    It is naturally possible, due to the simplicity of working the lighting device  1 , to mount advertising messages or specially designed informative text on the vehicle  30 . In this respect it is for example possible, when such a lighting device  1  is used on a school bus, that the latter can activate the lighting device  1  at a bus stop, so that a print sequence appears at the rear of the vehicle, for example with “Danger! Children”, so that a considerable advance in traffic safety on the roads is achieved.  
         [0045]    Power supply to the individual lighting devices  1  is carried out as in lighting systems knows in prior art, from the energy source disposed in the vehicle  30 , particularly the battery or light generator; in order to convert the poser supplied, a control appliance can be provided before each lighting device  1 , or an individual control appliance call be provided for all the lighting devices.  
         [0046]    A further advantage in the use of such a lighting element  4  resides in the fact that due to the thin layered construction, the lighting device can be adapted to the most varied spatially curved shapes of the vehicle  30 .  
         [0047]    [0047]FIG. 3 to  7  show embodiments of the use of such a lighting device  1  in different designs.  
         [0048]    The embodiments shown in FIG. 3 to  7  relate to an application of the lighting device  1  in an inner space of the vehicle  30 . For this purpose, a sun-shade  43  with a mirror  44  disposed thereon is shown in FIG. 3 to  7 .  
         [0049]    As can now be seen in FIG. 3, on either side of the mirror  44  flanking its lateral edges in the longitudinal direction is a respective lighting device  1 , particularly the lighting element  4 .  
         [0050]    The function of the lighting device  1  or of the lighting element  4  in relation to the mirror  44  in the sun-shade  43  resides in the fact that, when the sun-shade  43  is swung down, the lighting device  1  is automatically activated, i.e. by means of swinging down the sun-shade  43  a power supply is effected to the lighting device  1 , so that the lighting element  4  begins to shine.  
         [0051]    The advantage of such an arrangement resides in the fact that the lighting device  1  radiates directly into the inner space of the vehicle  30  or into the face of the user, so that the user can recognise himself in the mirror. A further advantage of use of the lighting device  1  with respect to the mirror  44  in the sun-shade  43  resides in the fact that, due to the flat construction of the lighting element  4 , no special measures or designs need be present in the sun-shade  43 , but that the mirror  44  and the lighting elements  4  can be simply secured on a surface  45 . The mirror  44  and the lighting device  1  or lighting element  4  may for example be attached by simple gluing.  
         [0052]    A further arrangement of the lighting element  4  is shown in dotted lines in FIG. 3. In this case the lighting elements  4  are disposed an the front face of the mirror  44 . Naturally it is possible for the lighting elements  4  to be disposed both in the longitudinal direction of the lateral edge of the mirror  44  and in the region of the end surface of the mirror  44 .  
         [0053]    [0053]FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the sun-shade  43 . In this embodiment at least one lighting device  1 , i.e. the lighting element  4 , is disposed on hie periphery of the mirror  44 . It can be seen from this embodiment that both individual struts and also circular or rectangular designs of the lighting element  4  can be provided with such a lighting device  1 .  
         [0054]    [0054]FIG. 5 and  6  show a further embodiment of the sun-shade  43 . In this embodiment the mirror  44  is disposed in a recess  46  of the sun-shade  43 . This embodiment also has a flap  47 , by means of which the mirror  44  can be covered. The flap  47  may for example be opened through an angle of 135°, and is connected by a joint arrangement  48  to the sun-shade  43 , so that by swinging up the flat  47 , the mirror  44  becomes visible. In this respect it is possible for the flap  47  to be fixed when open by a blocking device. So that the mirror  44  or the inner space can be illuminated, the lighting device  1 , particularly the light element  4 , is disposed on an inner side  49  of the flap  47 .  
         [0055]    In this embodiment the power supply to the lighting device  1  is activated only after the flap  47  has been swung upwards, i.e. when the sun-shade  43  is swung down, the power supply for the lighting device  1  is not activated, but only when the flap  47  is open. This is of advantage in that in this way, when the mirror  44  is not required, yet while still providing a corresponding shade from the sun, the sun-shade  43  can be swung down into the interior space of the vehicle, without the lighting device  1  being supplied with power.  
         [0056]    A situation is further achieved in which, due to the inner side  49  of the flap  47 , which has at least one lighting element  4  for covering the mirror  44 , the emerging light illuminates the mirror  44  and the interior of the vehicle in the position of use of the sun-shade  43 . For this purpose the lighting element  4 , when the flap  47  is opened at an angle, is fixed by the blocking device at an angle of about 135° C. between a plane accommodating the sun-shade  43  and a plane accommodating the flap, and in this position of the lighting element  4  is directed towards the interior of the vehicle.  
         [0057]    [0057]FIG. 7 shows a further field of application of the lighting device  1 , particularly the lighting element  4 . In this embodiment the lighting device  1 , particularly the lighting element  4 , is used for a symbolic representation in the interior of the vehicle, such as a pictogram, symbol, advertising sign, print image etc.  
         [0058]    In this respect it is possible for the lighting element  4  to have the most varied shapes. In the embodiment shown the lighting clement  4  has a circular cutout  50 , a cross-piece  51  being disposed in the inner space of the circular cut-out  50 . In addition it is possible for drawings or any representations to be disposed in the background. In this respect it is for example possible that in using such a design of the lighting device  1 , a cigarette is disposed in the inner space, so that due to the symbolic representation of the circle with a cross-stripe the passengers or the driver are informed that smoking is forbidden in the automobile. Naturally it is possible for any symbolic representation to be executed with such a lighting device  1  or with the lighting element  4 . It is also possible to dispose specific print sequences in the interior of the vehicle or externally on the bodywork of the vehicle  30 .  
         [0059]    The field of application of such a lighting device, particularly of the lighting element  4 , can be diverse with respect to a vehicle. For example it is possible to use the lighting device to illuminate an ash-tray, electrical window raises or switches, etc. It is also possible to dispose the lighting element  4  on a portion of the firmer lining, e.g. the roof, on the end face casing portion  3  of a door, on door thresholds, or as emergency exit signs in the gangway area of a vehicle  30 .  
         [0060]    When the lighting element  4  is incorporated in the interior of the vehicle  30 , particularly in the sun-shade  43 , it is advantageous for the lighting element  4  or the film  5 , when it is not supplied with power, to be flesh-coloured, as in this way it is not recognisable by a person. It is further possible by using a special switch to supply the sun-shade  43  with power upon even slight opening of the flap  47  or of the sun-shade  43 , so that in this way the basic colour of the lighting element  4  cannot be recognised, and thus special colour filters for the lighting element  4  are omitted.  
         [0061]    [0061]FIG. 8 and  9  show an embodiment of an arrangement of a lighting device  1  for an external mirror  52  of a vehicle  30 .  
         [0062]    In the embodiment shown, the lighting device  1  is used as a flashing device  31 , i.e. by providing the lighting device  1  with power a flashing light is emitted by the lighting element  4 .  
         [0063]    For this purpose, in the external mirror  52  shown, the lighting device  1  or the lighting element  4  is disposed in a casing  53 , the user of the vehicle not being hindered upon activation of this lighting device  1  in the external minor  52 , i.e. the user of the vehicle  30 , glancing in the external mirror  52 , has available the entire mirror surface  54  for monitoring the traffic.  
         [0064]    In order to achieve this, a special constriction of the external mirror  42  is necessary. This is produced by forming a layered structure of a plurality of layers to result in a mirror device  55 . For this purpose the outermost layer of the mirror device  55  is formed by a commercially available glass  56  or transparent film or plastic layer, a mirror layer  58 , consisting of chromium, being applied to a side lying opposite the line of sight on a surface  57  of the glass  56 . By means of this mirror layer  58  a situation is achieved in which, when one looks into the, glass  56  on the side lying opposite the mirror layer  56 , the impinging light is mirrored on the mirror layer  58 , so that in accordance with the angle of incidence of the eye of the user, corresponding image is shown on this mirror layer  58 .  
         [0065]    In the area in which the lighting device  1 , particularly the lighting element  4  is to be disposed, the mirror layer  58  is etched out, as shown by a free space  59 . As the lighting element  4  is in the form of an arrow  60 , only a partial section of Us free space  59  is visible in FIG. 9. The shape of the lighting element  4  in the form of an arrow  60  has been selected in that the lighting device  4  is to be used as a lashing light for turning in a specific direction of the vehicle  30 , so that the vehicles following the vehicle  30  or the vehicles lateral thereto can recognise the turning direction or flashing direction of the vehicle  30 .  
         [0066]    So that a reflection of the impinging light is provided also in the free space  59 , in which no minor layer  58  is applied, a dichroic layer  61  is disposed on the mirror layer  58 , so that by applying an article, particularly of the lighting device  1  in the region of the free space  59  a mirroring results, i.e. by means of the dichroic layer  61  a situation is achieved in which the otherwise blind point or the minor device  55  is improved in such a way that by the application of a lighting device  1  or of another article behind the dichroic layer  61 , i.e. by darkening the free space  59 , a mirror image is provided, so that no blind points result on the mirror surface  54 .  
         [0067]    So that the user of the vehicle is not distracted by the light element  4  disposed on the external mirror  52 , a deflecting layer  62  is disposed on the dichroic layer  61 . The deflecting layer  62  has the purpose of deflecting the light omitted by the lighting device  1  in the opposite direction to the user of the vehicle, so that the user cannot recognise the flashing light in the external mirror  52 , i.e. by means of activating the lighting device  1 , particularly the lighting element  4 , the emitted light beams  63  are deflected via the deflecting layer  62  at an angle  64  of about 30° in the opposite direction to the user of the vehicle, so that the vehicles  30  travelling behind the vehicle  30  however can recognise the light source in the external mirror  52 , without the driver of the vehicle or the user of this light source being hindered thereby.  
         [0068]    In order now that a light signal or the light beams  63  can be omitted, the lighting device  1  or the lighting element  4  is disposed on this deflecting layer  62 . Le lighting element  4  or the lighting device  1  must in this case be disposed on the deflecting layer  62  in such a way that the etched-out free spaces  59 , provided by etching out in the mirror layer  58 , are covered, so that due to the dichroic layer  61 , darkening of these free spaces  59  is provided and thus a mirror image is achieved on the entire surface of the mirror device  55 .  
         [0069]    In this respect it is for example possible that the lighting element  4  need not be designed in accordance with the arrow  60  shows but that the lighting clement  4  may be disposed over the entire or part surface of the overall deflector layer  62 , the light beams  63  being able to penetrate outwards through the mirror device  55  only in the area of the free space  59 . This is of advantage in that in this way by simple exchange of the layered structure, particularly of the glass  56 , with the most varied layers lying behind, various symbols can be shown or can be interchanged on the external mirror.  
         [0070]    An advantage of such a construction resides in the fact that by means of such an arrangement on the vehicle  30  the lateral legally prescribed flashing lights can be omitted and thus the appearance of the vehicle  30  can be improved. A further advantage resides in the fact that by using lighting device  1  on the external mirror  52 , the thickness  65  thereof can be kept very small, and thus costs or material can be saved in constructing the external mirror  52 .  
         [0071]    [0071]FIG. 10 and  11  show a further embodiment of an arrangement of the lighting device  1  with respect to the external mirror, in particular a rear-view mirror of a vehicle  30 .  
         [0072]    In the embodiment shown, the lighting device  1 , particularly the lighting element  4 , is now disposed over at least a partial area of the external surface of the casing  53 , the lighting element  4  for this purpose being preferably disposed on and face  67  facing away from a retaining device  66  for the vehicle  30 . In this case the lighting element  4  extends from the end face  67  to an adjacent rear surface  68  which is disposed opposite the mirror device  55 . Thus the lighting element  4  is secured to an outer side  69  of the casing  53 , so that approaching vehicles can recognise the emitted light beams  63  when the lighting device  11  is actuated.  
         [0073]    It is further possible to insert the lighting element  4  in a recess  70  in the casing  53 , the recess tapering in the direction of the face edge  67 , so that emergence of the lighting device  1  from the recess  70  is ensured in the area of the end faces  67 .  
         [0074]    It can now be said that the recess  70  for the lighting element  4  is disposed in the rear surface  68  of the external mirror  52 , said recess preferably being in a flared shape on the end surface  67 , and that the lighting element  4  projects over the end face  67  by a thickness, particularly by a thickness of the film forming the lighting element  4 .  
         [0075]    This is of advantage in that in this way those vehicles  30  which arc passing the external mirror  52  laterally, can recognise a small area  71  in the region of the end edges  67 , so that it is ensured tat even passing vehicles  30  can perceive this when the lighting device  1  is activated.  
         [0076]    In addition, in this way a situation is achieved in which by means of emergence of the lighting device  1  from the recess  70  in the external mirror  52  when the vehicle  30  is overtaken or passed and the lighting device  1  is activated, the overtaking vehicle  30  can firstly recognise a narrow-strip in the region of the end face  67 , however as the distance reduces, the area  71  for recognition of the lighting device  1  is increased for the passing vehicle  30 , particularly the driver of a vehicle  30 , so that the lighting device  1  is prevented from being overlooked when it is activated. Thus it is possible in such an embodiment in turn to use the lighting device  1  as a flashing device  31 , so that the lamps located laterally on the vehicle  30  can be omitted,  
         [0077]    Naturally it is possible for the lighting device  1  to be disposed, not over a partial area of the outer surface  69  of the external mirror  52 , but that the entire outer surface  69  of the casing  53  is formed by such a lighting device  1 .  
         [0078]    [0078]FIG. 12 and  13  show an embodiment for control of the lighting device  1 , as shown in the FIG. 1 to  1   1  previously described. For this purpose FIG. 12 shows a schematic circuit diagram, whereas in FIG. 13 there can be seen a diagram showing the power supply for the lighting device  1 . Basically it should be mentioned that in the embodiment shown a triggering system for the flashing device  31  is shown. Naturally it is possible for such a triggering to be used also for continuous use.  
         [0079]    The circuit diagram shown has a power source  73  for supplying a control device  72 . The power source  73  may for example be formed from a direct current source, particularly a battery, or by an alternating current source. In this respect it should be mentioned that when an alternating current source is used, the known rectifying methods for converting the alternating power source into a direct current power source familiar to a person skilled in the art and known from prior art can be used, so that supply of the liming device  1  in turn is effected by a direct current.  
         [0080]    In order that the lighting device  1  may be supplied with power, two cables  74 ,  75  are connected to the power source  73 , the cable  74  being used for positive potential and the cable  75  for negative potential. It is possible to dispose a support condenser  76  parallel to the power source  73  and between the two cables  74 ,  75 .  
         [0081]    The cables  74 ,  75  are then corrected to a converter device  77 . The converter device  77  has the purpose of converting the direct current, i.e. that the direct current supplied from the power source  73  is converted by the converter device  77  to a corresponding voltage level. It is for example possible to use a transformer as a converter device  77 . If a transformer is used as a convener device  77 , the person skilled in the art, as is already known from prior art, must first form from the direct current supplied from the power source  73  an alternating voltage, as is possible for example by means of a fill bridge or by oscillators or generators, so that a transfer of the supplied power via the transformer is possible. Then the alternating source formed can be reconverted into a direct surreal. Naturally it is possible for any optional form of converter device  77  to be used for converting the power from the power source  73 .  
         [0082]    Connected to the output of the converter device  77  arc supply lines  78 ,  79  for supplying a consumer  80 . The consumer  80  is now formed by the lighting device  1 , particularly by the lighting element  4 .  
         [0083]    So that the consumer  80  is now supplied with power and thus begins to illuminate, a plurality of switching devices  81  to  83  are incorporated between the converter device  77  for the positive potential in the supply line  78 . The switching devices  81  to  83  can for example be formed by transistors. It is naturally possible to use any optional form of switch device, for example a switch, a relay or the like. The switch devices  81  to  83  are incorporated in series with the supply line  78 , i.e. an interruption to the supply line  78  results when the switch device  81  to  83  is not activated, so that an interruption in the energy supply to the consumer  80 , particularly to the lighting device  1 , occurs.  
         [0084]    The individual switch devices  81  to  83  are initiated via generators, particularly frequency generators. Thus the switch device  81 , which is incorporated in series with the converter device  77 , is triggered via high frequency generator  84 . By means of triggering the switching device  81  via a high frequency generator  84  a situation is achieved in which the direct current supplied from the converter device  77  is chopped up in accordance with the set frequency at the high frequency generator  84 , as is pictorially shown at the output  85  of the switch device  81 , and thus forms a high frequency alternating current. Thus it is possible for the high frequency generator  84  to have a frequency range between 500 and 50 kHz, i.e. that due to the frequency of for example 10 kHz set at the high frequency generator  84 , a high frequency voltage is generated at the output  85  of the switch device  81  with a corresponding frequency of 10 kHz.  
         [0085]    Connecting with the switch device  81  is the further switch device  82 , again incorporated in series in the supply line  78 . The switch device  82  is again triggered via a frequency generator, however in this case by a low frequency generator  86 , i.e. again a low frequency signal is generated at an output  85  of the switch device  82 . The frequency of the low frequency generator  86  can be between 10 and 50 Hz, so that a corresponding low frequency signal, L shown pictorially at the output  87 , is generated.  
         [0086]    It is further possible for a further switching device  83  in series with the switching devices  81 ,  82  described above, particularly with the switch device  82 , is incorporated in series with the supply line  78 . The switch device  83  is in turn triggered by a low frequency generator  88 , this latter being capable of having a frequency between 0 and 10 Hz. By means of this switching device  83  a low Frequency signal, as shown pictorially at an output  89  of the switch device  83 , is formed.  
         [0087]    In connection with the switch device  83 , the consumer  80  is connected between the two supply lines  78 ,  79 , so that parallel incorporation of the consumer  80  to the converter device  77  is provided. Due to the various signal shapes as formed by the individual switch devices  81  to  83 , it is now possible for the lighting device  1 , particularly the consumer  80  to be supplied with power from the converter device  77 . In order however that the consumer  80 , in particular the lighting element  4 , is supplied with power, all the switch devices  81  to  83  must be activated at the same time, so that a circuit can be formed between the supply line  78 , the consumer  80  and the supply line  79 . The functional sequence for such a control device  72  can he effected for example as described below.  
         [0088]    After the control device  72  has been activated, i.e. the power source  73  has been activated, a control signal is sent to the individual generators, particularly in the high frequency generator  84  and the two low frequency generators  86 ,  88  via lines  91  to  93 , by a control device  90 , which for example corresponds to an on-board computer of the vehicle  30 . By means of the control signals the individual generators are now activated, i.e. they trigger the individual switch devices  81  to  83  at the corresponding frequency which can be previously set for each individual generator. This is visible at point in time  94  in FIG. 13.  
         [0089]    At point in time  94 , i.e. upon activation of the control device  72 , all the switch devices  81  to  83  are activated, so that a circuit can be built up via the supply line  78  to the supply line  79  and thus the consumer  80  is supplied with power. Due to this circuit, the lighting device  4  now begins to illuminate.  
         [0090]    As however the individual ,witch devices  81  to  83  are triggered at different frequencies, triggering of the lighting element  4  by a combination of the individual pulses as schematically shown in FIG. 12 and visible by various lines in the diagrams, i.e. by means of activation of a switch device  83  at a set frequency of for example 1 Hz, the switch device  83  is activated over a period of time  95 , so that a current flow is possible from output  87  of the switch device  82  to the output  89  of the switch device  83  over this period of time  95 .  
         [0091]    As however the switch device  82  is activated at a different frequency from the switch device  83 , during the period of time  95  a plurality of the pulses  96 , shown in dotted lines, and corresponding to the switch device  82  are formed. These pulses  96  have a different period of time  97  compared to the period of time  95 , i.e. by means of the individual pulses  96  pulsed operation of the lighting device  1  is formed within the period of time  95  of the switch device  83 . As however the switch device  81  is disposed between the converter device  77  and the switch device  82 , the consumer  80  cannot be supplied with power when the switch device  81  is deactivated. Due to the high frequency triggering of switch device  81 , now, as shown symbolically in FIG. 12, a high frequency voltage is generated at the output  85 , so that the supply of consumer  80  basically occurs via the high frequency voltage, this however supplying the consumer  80  with power only in those points of time at which all the switch devices  81  to  83  are activated, i.e. now the high frequency voltage is applied at consumer  80  when the switch device  82  forms a pulse  96  over the period of time  97  and simultaneously the switch device  83  is activated over the period of time  95 . By means of such a control method, the individual pulses  96  are formed with high frequency pulses  98  from the switch device  81 , i.e. these over the period of tie  97 , containing the pulses  96 , contain the high frequency pulses  98 , and thus forms a combination of the individual Frequencies of the most varied control devices  81  to  83  providing power to the consumer  80 .  
         [0092]    It should be mentioned in this respect that it is naturally possible for the generators, particularly the high frequency generator  84  and the two low frequency generators  86 ,  88  to be differently set via the control appliance  90 , i.e. via the control lines  91  to  93  a corresponding signal is transmitted, so that on the basis of this signal the individual generators are set. As is shown by the design for the flashing device  31  illustrated in FIG. 12 and  13 , after expire of the period of time  95  the switch device  83  is deactivated over a period of time  99 . Because the switch device  83  is deactivated, supply of power to the consumer  80  from the converter device  77  is no longer possible, so that the lighting clement  4  is likewise deactivated, i.e. the lighting element  4  no longer illuminates.  
         [0093]    Within the period of time  99 , however, both switch devices  81 ,  82  are further triggered by the generators, particularly by the high frequency generator  84  and the low frequency generator  86 , so that the signals shown symbolically are formed; due to the deactivation of switch device  83 , however, these cannot be applied to the consumer  80 .  
         [0094]    After the time period  99  has expired, switch device  83  is then activated by the low frequency generator  88 , so that a current flow can take place via the switch device  83 , as visible at time point  100  in the diagram in FIG. 13. By means of activation of switch device  83  over the time period  95 , the individual switch devices  81  to  83  are applied in combination with the different frequencies to the consumer  80 , particularly to the lighting element  4 , so that this latter can begin to illuminate over the time period  95 .  
         [0095]    As a frequency of e.g.  1  Hz is set in the low frequency generator  88 , it can now be stated that the lighting device  1  begins to flash at a rhythm of 1 Hz. Naturally it is possible, by setting the low frequency generator  88  for example at 0 Hz, thus to set a continuous interconnection or tire switch device  83 , so that continuous operation of lighting device  1  can take place. In continuous operation, the lighting element  4  is triggered by a pulse  96  formed by the low frequency generator  86  with the time period  97 . Thus for example it is possible for the low frequency generator  96  to have a frequency of 20 Hz. This frequency has proved advantageous as due to the inertia of the lighting element  4  and the corresponding frequency of e.g. flickering at the lighting device  1  is not perceptible by the eye of a person, so that a constant illumination of the lighting device  1  is provided over the lime period during which the switch device  83  is closed.  
         [0096]    Naturally it is possible with such a control device  72  that different time durations for triggering the switch device  81  to  83  can be set in operation, i.e. for example upon first activation of the switch device  83 , the duration  95  for example comes to 1 second, and after deactivation of the switch device  83  the duration  99  can come to 2 seconds and then upon frequent activation of the switch device  83  the time period  95  can come to 3 seconds.  
         [0097]    The advantage of such triggering resides in the fact that, due to the low frequency supply of the consumer  80 , particularly the lighting device  1 , mi a frequency rhythm of the switch device  82  a longer life duration is achieved for the lighting element  4 , as this is not continuously supplied with power, but after expire of the period  97  a rest phase is provided for the lighting element  4 .  
         [0098]    Naturally it is possible to use any other optional embodiment of a control device  72  for triggering the consumer  80 , particularly the lighting device  1 , as is known from prior art. For this purpose it is for example possible to control triggering via a microprocessor circuit with corresponding amplifiers to supply the lighting device  1 . It is also possible, instead of a plurality of switch devices  81  to  83 , to use only one switch device, i.e. the switch device  81 , so that continuous supply of the consumer  80  with the high frequency voltage, i.e. with the high frequency pulses  98  can be carried out.  
         [0099]    [0099]FIG. 14 shows a further embodiment of a construction of a lighting device  1 .  
         [0100]    In this case the construction has a frame  101  surrounding the lighting element  4 . The frame  101  can for example be formed by plastic or aluminum, this frame  101  being preferably in a U-shape. It is now possible within the frame  101  to dispose on the light-emitting side  102  a glass  103  or a transparent film, which can be either smooth or structured. Naturally it is possible to use a prismatic film in order to obtain a better light intensity of the lighting device  1 .  
         [0101]    There is then disposed on the glass  103  on the side of the glass  103  facing away from the light-emitting side  112 , the lighting element  4  with the known layers constructed as in the FIG. 1 to  13  previously described. In order now that the lighting element  4  is pressed against the glass  103  or against the film, a pressure plate  104  can be disposed behind the lighting element  4 . It is also possible to apply a reflective layer, in particular a chromium layer to the pressure plate  104 , so that a reflection of the light beams  63  emitted with respect to the light-emitting side  102  can be reflected in such a way that they in turn are deflected in the direction of the light-emitting side  102 , so that even better emission and light intensity of the lighting element  4  is achieved.  
         [0102]    Connecting with the pressure plate  104  it is now possible to dispose the switch device  72  in a compact fashion. For this purpose the switch device  72  has a printed circuit board  105  with the components  106  located on said printed circuit board  105 . The control device  72 , which is disposed on the side of the pressure plate  104  opposite the light-emitting side  102 , corresponds to the construction of the switch device  72  as described in FIG. 12. Naturally it is possible to provide any other optional circuit construction.  
         [0103]    It has proved advantageous, when the switch device  72  is used with respect to the lighting element  4 , to construct it in a hybrid fashion or to have the individual components constructed as thinly as possible, so that a low thickness  107  is achieved for the frame  110  or for the lighting device  1  produced in a compact manner. In this respect it is for example also possible for the converter device  75 , when a transformer is used, to be produced in the form of planar transformers.  
         [0104]    In order now that the individual structures and layers are securely positioned in the frame  101 , a resilient member  108  as known from prior art can be used between the U-shaped frame  101  and the printed circuit board  105 . By means of this resilient member  108 , the individual layers are pressed in the direction or the light-emitting side  102 , avoiding the occurrence of cavities between the individual layers of the lighting device  1 .  
         [0105]    The advantage of such a structure of the lighting device  1  now resides in the fact that due to the compact construction and low thickness  107 , the lighting device  1  may be used at any optional point on the vehicle or in those areas wherever anything has to be illuminated. For this purpose it is merely necessary for the compact lighting device  1  to be connected by cables to a power source, so that no additional appliances and structures are necessary for controlling the lighting device  1 . Furthermore it is possible, in order better to fix the lighting deuce on an object, to provide a cover plate  109 . This cover plate is secured on the side opposite the light-emitting side  102  on the frame  101  of the lighting device  1 . By means of this cover plate it is now possible to make the lighting device  1  watertight, so that the lighting device  1  may be used in the open air. A further advantage results from the use of a cover plate  109 , as in this way a flat surface is provided, so that simple attachment of the lighting device  1  is possible.  
         [0106]    Naturally it is possible to design the frame  101 , the cover plate  109  and the layers located in the frame  101  as flexible, so that the lighting device  1  may be attached to any optional shape. It is flier possible to produce such a compact construction of the lighting device  1  without the control device  72 , in this case the resilient member  108  not being provided on the printed circuit board  106 , but on the pressure plate  104 , so that a considerably thinner construction is achieved.  
         [0107]    It is further possible to have the supply and/or triggering device  25  designed as a semiconductor component and to locate it on the lighting element  4  and/ or carrier film  7 . Naturally it is also possible for the supply and/or triggering device  25  to have an interval switch for triggering the lighting element  4 .  
         [0108]    It is further possible to have the lighting device, in particular the lighting element  4 , triggered by the supply and/or triggering device  25  in different ways for day and night operation, i.e. the light intensity of the lighting device  1  is altered for day and night operation, the light intensity being increased in this respect for day operation so that easier or better recognition of the illuminated lighting element  4  is achieved.  
         [0109]    As a matter of order it should be pointed out that, in the drawings, individual components and component groups are shown out of proportion and distorted in scale for better understanding of the invention.  
         [0110]    In addition, individual features of the individual embodiments may form, with other individual feature of other embodiments, or respectively on their own, the subject-matter of independent inventions.  
         [0111]    Above all, the individual constructions in FIG. 1;  2 ;  3  to  7 ;  8 ,  9 ;  1   0 ,  1   1 ;  12 ,  13 ; and  14  can form the subject- matter of independent solutions according to the invention. The object and solutions according to the invention in this respect are to be seen in the detailed descriptions of these FIG.