Patent Description:
Headlamps are generally configured to illuminate the road in front of a vehicle. Some headlamps produce a low beam pattern of light in front of the vehicle with forward and lateral illumination components, and a high beam pattern of light that provides a relatively bright and centrally located illumination pattern in front of the vehicle.

The document <CIT> describes a lamp for a vehicle. The document <CIT> discloses a projection lens. The document <CIT>, discloses a lightning unit. None o the prior art documents describe a way to achieve good overlapping of a high beam illumination pattern with a low beam illumination pattern.

The present invention provides bi-functional optical systems and methods. As will be described, systems and methods are provided that allow a single lamp (for a vehicle) to selectively produce a low beam illumination pattern alone, a high beam illumination pattern alone, or simultaneously a low beam illumination pattern and a high beam illumination pattern. Additionally, the single lamp construction is more compact (and less bulky) than some other designs.

The invention provides a lamp for a vehicle with the features of claim <NUM>. According to the invention, the lamp includes a housing, an axial symmetric lens coupled to the housing and defining an optical axis and a focal point, and a first light source positioned within the housing. The first light source is positioned behind the focal point of the axial symmetric lens relative to the optical axis. The lamp includes the second light source positioned within the housing. The second light source is positioned in front of the focal point of the axial symmetric lens relative to the optical axis. The first light source is configured to emit first light along a first optical path that extends from the first light source, towards the axial symmetric lens below the optical axis, and through the axial symmetric lens to define a low beam illumination pattern. The second light source is configured to emit second light along a second optical path that extends, from the second light source, towards the axial symmetric lens above the optical axis, and through the axial symmetric lens to define a high beam illumination pattern.

According to the invention, the lamp includes an image shifting lens positioned within the housing between the second light source and the axial symmetric lens, The second optical path extends, from the second light source, through the image shifting lens, and through the axial symmetric lens.

In some aspects, at least a portion of an image shifting lens can be positioned above a focal point and above an optical axis of an axial symmetric lens. The image shifting lens can be configured to receive at a rear surface an image defining a first focal point, and to project a shifted image out of a front surface of the image shifting lens. The shifted image can define a second focal point that is shifted from the first focal point away from the axial symmetric lens relative to the optical axis.

In some aspects, a second focal point of a shifted image overlaps with a focal point of an axial symmetric lens.

In some aspects, the lamp can include a reflector positioned within a housing. A first optical path can extend from the first light source, towards the reflector, and towards an axial symmetric lens away from the reflector.

In some aspects, the lamp can include a physical shield positioned within a housing. A physical shield can block a portion of light emitted from the first light source from being transmitted through an axial symmetric lens.

In some aspects, a physical shield can be positioned below an upper reflective surface of a reflector. The physical shield can have an extension that extends out from an interior volume of the reflector towards an axial symmetric lens. The extension can define a peripheral edge that can include a first linear region, a second linear region; and a curved region between the first and second linear regions. The curved region can be concave.

In some aspects, a physical shield can be oriented substantially parallel to an optical axis of an axially symmetric lens. The physical shield can include a well. A first thickness of the physical shield at the well can be smaller than a second thickness of the physical shield.

In some aspects, the lamp can include a wall coupled to and positioned within a housing. The wall can extend towards an optical axis so that the wall is substantially perpendicular to the optical axis. The lamp can include a support that can be coupled to and positioned within the housing. The support can extend away from an axial symmetric lens relative to the optical axis. A portion of the support can be substantially parallel to the optical axis. The first light source can be coupled to a surface of the support that faces a reflector. The second light source can be coupled to a surface of the wall that faces the axial symmetric lens.

In some aspects, the lamp can include an optical ring having a hole directed therethrough. The optical ring can be positioned within a housing behind an axial symmetric lens. The lamp can include a plurality of light sources, different from the first and second light sources, each of which can be positioned behind the optical ring and in front of the first light source relative to an optical axis.

In some aspects, a plurality of light sources can be positioned radially away from the second light source relative to an optical axis so that the plurality of light sources surround the second light source.

In some aspects, each of a plurality of light sources can be configured to emit amber light. The first light source can be configured to emit white light. The second light source can be configured to emit white light.

In some aspects, an optical ring can be a first optical ring. The lamp can include a second optical ring having a hole directed therethrough. The second optical ring can be positioned within a housing in front of the first optical ring relative to an optical axis. An axial symmetric lens can be inserted through the hole of the second optical ring. The lamp can include a cover coupled to the housing. At least a portion of the cover can be positioned in front of the axial symmetric lens.

In some aspects, a portion of a physical shield overlaps with a focal point of an axial symmetric lens.

In some aspects, the first light source can be configured to emit light that is reflected by a reflector and transmitted through an axial symmetric projection lens. A portion of the reflected light can be blocked and prevented from being transmitted to the axial symmetric projection lens by a physical shield. The reflected light can define a low beam illumination pattern.

In some aspects, the second light source can be configured to emit light that defines an image through an image shifting lens. The image shifting lens can be configured to shift the image back to a focal point of an axial symmetric projection lens. The image when projected through the axial symmetric lens can define a high beam illumination pattern.

In some aspects, a portion of a high beam illumination pattern can be overlaid on a low beam illumination pattern so that the portion of the high beam illumination pattern overlaps with the low beam illumination pattern.

In some aspects, a light source can be the first light source. An optical path can be a first optical path. A lamp can include a reflector positioned within a housing, and the second light source positioned within the housing. The second light source can be positioned behind a focal point of an axial symmetric lens relative to an optical axis. The lamp can include a physical shield that has a peripheral edge that can overlap with the focal point of the axial symmetric lens. The second light source can be configured to emit second light along a second optical path that extends from the second light source, towards the reflector, towards the axial symmetric lens away from the reflector, and through the axial symmetric lens to define a low beam illumination pattern.

In some aspects, the lamp can include a first plurality of light sources positioned within a housing in front of the second light source and surrounding the first light source. The plurality of light sources can emit light having a different color than light emitted from the first light source and the second light source.

In some aspects, the lamp can include a wall positioned within a housing between a reflector and an image shifting lens. The first light source can be coupled to the wall.

In some aspects, a focal point of an axial symmetric lens can be positioned between the first light source and the second light source.

In some aspects, a plurality of light sources can emit light having a different color than light emitted from the first light source and the second light source. The plurality of light sources can be configured to emit amber light. The first light source and the second light source can be configured to emit white light.

Some aspects provide a computer-implemented method of illuminating a scene away from a vehicle using a lamp that is coupled to the vehicle. The method can include causing, using one or more computing devices, the lamp to emit a low beam illumination pattern, and causing, using the one or more computing devices, the lamp to emit a low beam illumination pattern. Emitting the low beam illumination pattern does not include moving a physical shield that obstructs the projection of light from the lamp. Emitting the high beam illumination pattern does not include moving a physical shield that obstructs the projection of light from the lamp.

In some aspects, a method can include receiving, using one or more computing devices, a user input from a user input device of the vehicle, and adjusting, using the one or more computing devices, the light intensity of the one or more light sources of the lamp, based on the user input.

In some aspects, adjusting the light intensity of the one or more light sources includes one or more of stopping, using one or more computing devices, one or more light sources of the lamp from emitting light, causing, using the one or more computing devices, one or more light sources of the lamp to emit light, or changing, using the one or more computing devices, a light intensity of one or more light sources of the lamp.

In some aspects, a method can include causing, using one or more computing devices, the lamp to emit a parking illumination pattern, causing, using the one or more computing devices, the lamp to emit a directional indication illumination pattern, or causing, using the one or more computing devices, the lamp to emit a daytime illumination pattern.

In some aspects, a method can include causing, using one or more computing devices, the lamp to emit the directional indication illumination pattern while the lamp emits the low beam illumination pattern, the high beam illumination pattern, or both.

In some aspects, the lamp can include the first light source, the second light source different from the first light source, and a plurality of other light sources different from the first and second light sources that can surround the first light source and the second light source. A method can include causing, using one or more computing devices, one or more of the plurality of other light sources to emit light to generate a parking illumination pattern, a directional indication illumination pattern, or a daytime illumination pattern.

In some aspects, a method can include causing, using one or more computing devices, the first light source to emit light to generate a low beam illumination pattern, and causing, using the one or more computing devices, the second light source to emit light to generate a high beam illumination pattern.

In some aspects, a method can include receiving, using one or more computing devices, a sensor value from a sensor, and causing, using the one or more computing devices, the first light source and the second light source to generate a low beam illumination pattern, a high beam illumination pattern, or both based on the sensor value.

In some aspects, a sensor is a photosensor.

In some aspects, an image shifting lens can include one or more supports extending from opposing sides of a lens portion of the image shifting lens. The one or more supports can be coupled to the surface of a wall.

In some aspects, the first and the second light source can be light emitting.

The foregoing and other aspects and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description. In the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which there is shown by way of illustration a preferred configuration of the invention. Such configuration does not necessarily represent the full scope of the invention, however, and reference is made therefore to the claims and herein for interpreting the scope of the invention.

Before any aspect of the present invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The present invention is capable of other configurations and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use aspects of the present invention. Various modifications to the illustrated configurations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other configurations and applications without departing from aspects of the present invention. Thus, aspects of the present invention are not intended to be limited to configurations shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention which is defined by the appended claims. Skilled artisans will recognize the non-limiting examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the present invention that is defined by the appended claims.

The use herein of the term "axial" and variations thereof refers to a direction that extends generally along an axis of symmetry, a central axis, or an elongate direction of a particular component or system. For example, an axially-extending structure of a component can extend generally along a direction that is parallel to an axis of symmetry or an elongate direction of that component. Similarly, the use herein of the term "radial" and variations thereof refers to directions that are generally perpendicular to a corresponding axial direction. For example, a radially extending structure of a component can generally extend at least partly along a direction that is perpendicular to a longitudinal or central axis of that component. The use herein of the term "circumferential" and variations thereof refers to a direction that extends generally around a circumference or periphery of an object, around an axis of symmetry, around a central axis, or around an elongate direction of a particular component or system.

Conventional headlamps can include inefficiencies (e.g., optical inefficiencies). For example, conventional headlamps can suffer from difficulties with ensuring that when both a high beam and a low beam are simultaneously produced that they are both properly overlaid. In other words, because each lamp has their own optical components (e.g., lenses), and are located at different positions on the vehicle, it can be difficult to ensure that the combined light pattern from the activation of both the high beam and the low beam is properly overlaid. Thus, at times, when the high beam and the low beam are simultaneously produced, gaps and other undesirable spatial relationships between the high beam and the low beam can occur (e.g., lateral translations, vertical translations, etc.).

Some recent approaches have attempted to address some of the problems above by constructing a headlamp that has both a high beam and a low beam configuration. In these cases, these headlamps have a movable physical shield or a light shield. In this configuration, the position of the physical movable shield determines whether a high beam or a low beam light pattern is produced. More specifically, if the physical moveable shield obstructs a portion of the light emitted from the light source, then a low beam light pattern is produced. Alternatively, if the physical moveable shield is moved or positioned so that no light or minimal light is obstructed, then a high beam light pattern is produced. While these configurations (with movable shields) allow for a selective high and low beam configuration, the moveable components can be undesirable. For example, because the physical shield has to be physically moved from one position to the next, the power requirements (e.g., by activation of an electrical actuator) are higher than systems without such moving components. As another example, the moving components can reduce lamp longevity, at least because repeated actuation of the physical shield, many times, can cause the lamp to ultimately fail. As yet another example, these systems have a relatively uniform illumination pattern near central regions. In other words, because there is only a single light source, the illumination pattern is largely the same between regions and depends on the natural diffusion of light.

Some non-limiting examples provide advantages over the conventional configurations, and others, by providing a bi-functional lamp that can selectively produce a low beam illumination pattern, a high beam illumination pattern, or both simultaneously, without the need for movable components (e.g., the movable light shields). Additionally, some non-limiting examples provide a more compact design (axially). In other words, the bi-functional lamp has a decreased axial spatial footprint, as compared to conventional configurations.

<FIG> shows a front perspective view of a bi-functional lamp <NUM> for a vehicle (not shown) in a fully assembled configuration. The bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include a housing <NUM> having a first end <NUM> (e.g., a front end) and a second end <NUM> (e.g., a rear end), and a front cover <NUM>. The housing <NUM> can be generally configured to retain and secure the components of the bi-functional lamp <NUM>, and can be formed out of any suitable materials (e.g., plastics, metals, etc.). The front cover <NUM> can be coupled to the first end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and is substantially (i.e., deviating by less than <NUM>% from) transparent so as to allow light produced within the bi-functional lamp <NUM> to be emitted through the front cover <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include an optical ring <NUM>, and an axial symmetric lens <NUM> defining an optical axis <NUM> (see <FIG>) and a focal point <NUM> (see <FIG>). The optical ring <NUM> can be coaxially positioned in the housing <NUM> relative to the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, when the bi-functional lamp <NUM> is fully assembled. In some cases, a portion of the axial symmetric lens <NUM> is inserted through a hole of the optical ring <NUM> that is directed through the optical ring <NUM>. In other words, an inner circumference of the optical ring <NUM> (see <FIG>) can define the hole of the optical ring <NUM>, in which a portion of the axial symmetric lens <NUM> is inserted through. The optical ring <NUM> can be a transparent optical component that is configured to produce multiple intensities of light. For example, although not shown in <FIG>, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> includes light sources (e.g., amber light sources), which can direct emit light towards and through the optical ring <NUM> at different light intensities, as described below. In some non-limiting examples, the optical ring <NUM> can define a peripheral lip around a portion of or the entire circumference of the optical ring <NUM>.

The axial symmetric lens <NUM> can be coupled to the housing <NUM>, which can be implemented in different ways. For example, as described in below, the axial symmetric lens <NUM> can be coupled to the housing <NUM> via one or more fasteners (e.g., threaded fasteners). In some non-limiting examples, the axial symmetric lens <NUM> can define a cross-sectional shape that is substantially uniform around the optical axis <NUM>. In other words, the axial symmetric lens <NUM> can be formed by revolving a quarter of the cross-section of the axial symmetric lens <NUM> around the entire optical axis <NUM> (e.g., <NUM> degrees). As shown in <FIG>, the axial symmetric lens <NUM> is positioned behind the front cover <NUM>, but is positioned in front of many of the other components of the bi-functional lamp <NUM>. For example, the axial symmetric lens <NUM> is positioned in front of each of the light sources of the bi-functional lamp <NUM>, however, other configurations are possible.

With specific reference to <FIG>, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include a reflector <NUM>, a physical shield <NUM>, a light source <NUM>, an image shifting lens <NUM>, and a light source <NUM>. The reflector <NUM> can be arranged within the housing <NUM> behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, the image shifting lens <NUM>, the focal point <NUM> of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, and the light source <NUM>. In some configurations, the reflector <NUM> can be positioned near or adjacent to the second end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. While the reflector is shown as having a shell-like structure, other configurations are possible. For example, the reflector <NUM> can define a hemi-ellipsoid, while in other cases, including as shown in <FIG>, the reflector <NUM> can define a quarter ellipsoid. In other words, the reflector <NUM> that is substantially a quarter ellipsoid can be created by separating an ellipsoid at its equator (or in other words the semi major axis of the ellipsoid) to define an upper and lower half, and then further separating one of the halves at the prime meridian of the half (or in other words the semi minor axis of the ellipsoid) to yield a (substantially) quarter ellipsoid. In some cases, the substantially or exactly quarter ellipsoid for the reflector <NUM> can be advantageous in that the spatial footprint of the reflector can be decreased, while still being able to produce a low beam illumination pattern. Regardless of the configuration, the reflector <NUM> can define a reflection surface, and an internal volume. For example, light, including light produced by the light source <NUM>, can be reflected and redirected by the reflection surface of the reflector <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the physical shield <NUM> can be positioned within the housing <NUM> and can be oriented generally parallel to the optical axis <NUM>. In some cases, and as illustrated, the physical shield <NUM> can be positioned behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, behind the image shifting lens <NUM>, and behind the light source <NUM>. In addition, the physical shield <NUM> can be positioned in front of the light source <NUM>, and in front of a portion of the reflector <NUM>. In some non-limiting examples, the physical shield <NUM> can be partially received within the internal volume defined by of the reflector <NUM>, such that a portion of the physical shield <NUM> extends out from the internal volume of the reflector <NUM>. This portion of the physical shield <NUM> that extends out from the internal volume of the reflector <NUM> can define an extension <NUM>, which can include an edge that aligns with the optical axis <NUM> and the focal point <NUM> of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. In this way, because the edge of the physical shield <NUM> overlaps with the focal point <NUM>, the physical shield <NUM> can provide a crisper cut off for the low beam illumination pattern. In addition, because the physical shield <NUM>, which can be substantially planar, is oriented to be substantially parallel with the optical axis <NUM> of the axial symmetric lens <NUM> (and substantially perpendicularly to the direction of gravity), the physical shield <NUM> can be better supported and thus is impacted to a lesser extent by vibrational or other forces (e.g., as compared to physical shields that extend substantially perpendicular to an optical axis).

<FIG> shows a top cross-sectional view of the bi-functional lamp <NUM> in a fully assembled configuration to show the shape of the physical shield <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the physical shield <NUM> can include the extension <NUM> which can define a peripheral edge <NUM> and at least a portion of a well <NUM>. The extension <NUM>, including the peripheral edge <NUM>, can extend out of the internal volume of the reflector <NUM> in a direction along the optical axis <NUM> and towards the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. For example, the peripheral edge <NUM> can be the edge of the physical shield <NUM> that is farthest away, along the optical axis <NUM>, from the light source <NUM>. The peripheral edge <NUM> can include linear regions <NUM>, <NUM> that are joined together by a curved region <NUM> that is concave. Generally, the peripheral edge <NUM> of the physical shield <NUM> can define the shape or spatial illumination distribution of the light emitted from the light source <NUM> and reflected by the reflector <NUM>. In particular, some light that is reflected by the reflector <NUM> can be blocked (e.g., reflected) by the physical shield <NUM>, and thus the shape of the physical shield <NUM> (e.g., how far the physical shield <NUM> extends away from the reflector <NUM>) dictates the shape of the light pattern projected from the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. In other words, at least some light that is emitted from the light source <NUM>, reflected by the reflector <NUM>, and directed at the physical shield <NUM> is not transmitted through the axial symmetric lens <NUM> (e.g., but is rather reflected off from, or absorbed by, the physical shield <NUM> and is directed away from the axial symmetric lens <NUM>). In some non-limiting examples, the physical shield can be formed out of a polymer (e.g., a plastic), in which case the physical shield <NUM> can absorb light emitted from the light source <NUM>). In other cases, the physical shield <NUM> can be formed out of a metal, in which case the physical shield <NUM> can reflect light off the physical shield <NUM> (e.g., that is not intended to be transmitted through the axial symmetric lens <NUM>). In some configurations, the ability of the physical shield <NUM> to reflect light (rather than absorbing the light), can be advantageous in that the temperature of the physical shield <NUM> does not undesirably increase (e.g., which could undesirably heat other nearby components).

The well <NUM> can be arranged adjacent to the linear region <NUM> of the peripheral edge <NUM> of the physical shield <NUM>. The well <NUM> can include sloping (angled) faces that meet at a central location, which defines a portion of the linear region <NUM> of the peripheral edge <NUM>. Stated another way, the well <NUM> can define a number of facets that are angled towards the central location. At the central location, the well <NUM> defines a planar surface <NUM>. In some cases, the thickness of the physical shield <NUM> at the planar surface <NUM> (or at other portions of the well <NUM>) can be less than the thickness of a different portion of the well <NUM> (e.g., a portion of the well <NUM> not a the well <NUM>). In this way, the decreased thickness provided by the well <NUM> can provide increased illumination to a particular region and can provide a better cut-off for the illumination pattern, as described below. For example, because the required illumination cut off for low beam regulations is <NUM>-dimensional ("3D"), and because the edge <NUM> of the physical shield <NUM> (which follows the focal field of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>) is itself 3D and has a particular thickness (e.g., greater than <NUM> millimeter), then more light is required generally, which is provided by the (geometry of the) well <NUM>. In other words, due to the relatively small footprint of the well <NUM>, and the well <NUM> defining a decreased thickness of the physical shield <NUM>, a higher light region within the low beam illumination pattern is provided that has a crisp cut-off.

Referring back to <FIG>, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include the light source <NUM> that is positioned within the housing <NUM>, and that is located within the internal volume of the reflector <NUM>. In some cases, the light source <NUM> can be arranged axially behind (e.g., toward the second end <NUM>) of the physical shield <NUM> and the focal point <NUM> of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, relative to the optical axis <NUM>. In addition, the light source <NUM> can be positioned behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, behind the image shifting lens <NUM>, behind the light source <NUM>, and behind at least a portion of the reflector <NUM>. In some cases, the light source <NUM> can have a light emission surface that is substantially parallel to the optical axis <NUM> As shown in <FIG>, the light source <NUM>, and the physical shield <NUM>, can each be positioned below a reflecting surface of the reflector <NUM>. In operation, the light source <NUM> can be directed to emit light toward the reflection surface of the reflector <NUM>. This emitted light <NUM> can then be reflected by the reflector <NUM>, directed below the optical axis <NUM>, and transmitted through the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. The portion of the light <NUM> that is eventually projected through and emitted out of the axial symmetric lens <NUM> can define a low beam illumination pattern. Importantly, the physical shield <NUM> blocks (e.g., reflects away) a portion of the light <NUM> that is reflected by the reflector <NUM> so as to prevent that portion of light <NUM> from being transmitted to (and through) the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. Thus, the physical shield <NUM> causes a crisp or sharp cut-off for the low beam illumination pattern. In some non-limiting examples, the light source <NUM> can be a light emitting diode (LED) or can comprise multiple LEDs. However, in other configurations, the light source <NUM> can be an incandescent light bulb. In some cases, the light source <NUM> being at least one LED can be advantageous in that the spatial footprint of the bi-functional lamp <NUM>, and in particular, the axial spatial footprint of the bi-functional lamp <NUM> (e.g., defined by the length between the ends <NUM>, <NUM>) can be greatly decreased because LEDs are typically much smaller than other light sources. In addition, LEDs can have superior temperature generation characteristics for a given illumination value (e.g., more efficient light generation).

In some non-limiting examples, the arrangement of the light source <NUM> within the housing <NUM> can be altered to emit light in a different direction. For example, the light source <NUM> can be arranged to emit light in a direction generally toward the axial symmetric lens <NUM> (e.g., in a direction that generally aligns with or is slightly angled relative to the optical axis <NUM>). In these non-limiting examples, one or more lenses can be arranged between the light source <NUM> and the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, rather than the reflector <NUM>. Although a reflector <NUM> is described and illustrated as directing the light <NUM>, in alternative non-limiting examples the reflector <NUM> can be substituted with other optics that elicit the same optical response, such as, for example, mirrors or other reflecting optics.

The bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include the image shifting lens <NUM> that is arranged within the housing <NUM> and can be located axially between the physical shield <NUM> and the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. In addition, the image shifting lens <NUM> can be positioned behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, in front of the light source <NUM>, in front of the physical shield <NUM>, in front of the focal point <NUM>, in front of the light source <NUM>, and in front of the reflector <NUM>. In some configurations, a portion of the image shifting lens <NUM> can be positioned above the focal point <NUM> and above the optical axis <NUM>. In some cases, including when the bi-functional lamp <NUM> includes a wall <NUM> (e.g., which is arranged within and coupled to the housing <NUM>), the image shifting lens <NUM> can be positioned axially in front of the wall <NUM> (e.g., in a direction toward the first end <NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, the image shifting lens <NUM> has a rear surface <NUM> that is planar, and an opposing front surface <NUM> that is concave. In operation, light directed to the rear surface <NUM> in the form of an image has a focal point at substantially the location of the light source <NUM>, which is positioned in front of the focal point <NUM>. However, this image, when projected out of the front surface <NUM> defines a shifted image that has a focal point that substantially overlaps with the focal point <NUM> of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. In this way, the image shifting lens <NUM> shifts an image back to substantially the focal point <NUM> so that light emitted from the front surface <NUM> has a focal point that substantially overlaps with the focal point <NUM>. In this way, the high beam illumination pattern overlaps well with the low beam illumination pattern.

In some non-limiting examples, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include the light source <NUM> that can be arranged within the housing <NUM> and can be located axially between the physical shield <NUM> and the image shifting lens <NUM>. In some cases, the light source <NUM> can be positioned behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, behind the image shifting lens <NUM>, in front of the wall <NUM>, in front of the focal point <NUM>, in front of the physical shield <NUM>, in front of the light source <NUM>, and in front of the reflector <NUM>. In some non-limiting examples, the light source <NUM> can be coupled to or supported by a surface the wall <NUM> that faces the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, such that the light source <NUM> can be positioned axially between the image shifting lens <NUM> and the focal point <NUM> of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. In some configurations, the light source <NUM> can define a light emission surface that is substantially perpendicular to the optical axis <NUM>. In some cases, the light source <NUM> can be implemented in a similar manner as the light source <NUM>. For example, the light source <NUM> can be an LED, multiple LEDS, an incandescent bulb, etc..

In operation, the light source <NUM> can be arranged to emit light <NUM> toward the rear surface <NUM> of the image shifting lens <NUM>. The emitted light <NUM> can then be transmitted to and through the image shifting lens <NUM> and emitted out of the front surface <NUM> of the image shifting lens <NUM> to define an image. In general as described above, the image shifting lens <NUM> can be configured shift the image back to substantially the focal point <NUM> of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. For example, the optical characteristics of the image shifting lens <NUM> can shift a focal point of the image projected from the image shifting lens <NUM> back to the focal point <NUM> of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, which overlaps the high beam pattern with the low beam pattern (e.g., the high beam pattern is overlapped with at least a portion of the low beam pattern). In this way, because the image emitted out of the front surface <NUM> of the image shifting lens <NUM> is shifted back to the focal point <NUM>, light emitted from either of the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> will be transmitted though the axial symmetric lens <NUM> with a similar focal point. So, both patterns of light emitted out of the axial symmetric lens <NUM> (assuming both light sources <NUM>, <NUM> are emitting light) will "appear" to have originated from a similar focal point, and thus both patterns will be overlaid in a better manner.

In some non-limiting examples, the image projected out of the front surface <NUM> can be directed to the axial symmetric lens <NUM>. This image is then transmitted through and is projected out of the axial symmetric lens <NUM> to define a high beam illumination pattern. In some cases, the projected image, from the image shifting lens <NUM> and to the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, is located only above the optical axis <NUM>. In other cases, the projected image to the axial symmetric lens <NUM> is located in a region that spans above and below (and includes) the optical axis <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the light source <NUM> is configured to emit light along an optical path <NUM>. The optical path <NUM> can extend from the light source <NUM>, towards the reflector <NUM> (e.g., the reflective surface of the reflector <NUM>), towards the axial symmetric lens <NUM> (e.g., after reflecting off of the reflective surface of the reflector <NUM>), and through the axial symmetric lens <NUM> to define a low beam illumination pattern (e.g., after the light is projected out of the axial symmetric lens <NUM>). A portion of the optical path <NUM>, and in particular the portion <NUM> between the reflector <NUM> and the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, can cross the optical axis <NUM> at a downwards angle relative to the optical axis <NUM>. Thus, a section of the portion <NUM> of the optical path <NUM> extends above the optical axis <NUM>, while a section of the portion <NUM> of the optical path <NUM> extends below the optical axis <NUM>. In addition, the portion <NUM> of the optical path <NUM> can extend through a gap <NUM> that is positioned between the wall <NUM> and a shelf <NUM> of a support <NUM>. While only one optical path <NUM> has been described, it should be understood that light emitted from the light source <NUM> can follow multiple light paths that each follow a similar path as the optical path <NUM> (e.g., but are shifted in space) to define the low beam illumination pattern.

As shown in <FIG>, the light source <NUM> is also configured to emit light along an optical path <NUM>. The optical path <NUM> can extend from the light source <NUM>, towards the reflector <NUM>, towards the physical shield <NUM> (e.g., after reflecting off the reflective surface of the reflector <NUM>), and away from the physical shield <NUM> (or stopping at the physical shield <NUM>, including when the light is absorbed by the physical shield <NUM>). In this way, light that follows the optical path <NUM> advantageously is not transmitted through the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, so that the low beam illumination pattern has a crisp cut-off. In other words, the physical shield <NUM> blocks light that follows the optical path <NUM> from being transmitted through the axial symmetric lens <NUM>.

The light source <NUM> is also configured to emit light along an optical path <NUM>. For example, the optical path <NUM> can extend from the light source <NUM>, towards the image shifting lens <NUM>, through the image shifting lens <NUM>, towards the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, and through the axial symmetric lens <NUM> to define a high beam illumination pattern. As shown in <FIG>, the optical path <NUM> extends above the optical axis <NUM> (e.g., and does not extend below the optical axis <NUM>). However, in alternative configurations, the optical path <NUM> can extend below the optical axis <NUM> (e.g., so that the high beam illumination pattern is overlaid on the low beam illumination pattern). Similarly to the optical path <NUM>, while only one optical path <NUM> has been described, it should be understood that light emitted from the light source <NUM> can follow multiple light paths that each follow a similar path as the optical path <NUM> (e.g., but are shifted in space) to define the high beam illumination pattern.

In some non-limiting examples, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include the wall <NUM>, and a support <NUM>, each of which can be positioned within and coupled to the housing <NUM>. The wall <NUM> can be positioned behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, behind the image shifting lens <NUM>, behind the light source <NUM>, in front of the focal point <NUM>, in front of the physical shield <NUM>, in front of the light source <NUM>, and in front of the reflector <NUM>. The wall <NUM> can be oriented substantially perpendicularly to the optical axis <NUM>, and as described above, the light source <NUM> can be coupled to the wall <NUM> so that the light source <NUM> faces the axially symmetric lens <NUM>. The support <NUM> can include a shelf <NUM> that extends away from the axial symmetric lens <NUM> in a direction that is parallel to the optical axis <NUM>. In particular, the shelf <NUM> can define a planar surface that is substantially parallel to the optical axis <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the reflector <NUM>, the light source <NUM>, and the physical shield <NUM> can be coupled to the shelf <NUM>, and in particular, the planar surface of the shelf <NUM>. Although not visible in <FIG>, the wall and the support <NUM> can be integrally formed together. Thus, in some cases, the wall <NUM> can be part of the support <NUM> (e.g., the support <NUM> encompassing the wall <NUM>). In this way, the spatial positioning between the components of the bi-functional lamp <NUM> including the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> are continually maintained without the risk of changing over time (e.g., such as if the components were coupled together). In some cases, the wall <NUM> can be coupled to the support <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> show isometric views of the bi-functional lamp <NUM> with the housing <NUM> and front cover <NUM> removed for visual clarity. In some non-limiting examples, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include an optical ring <NUM> having a hole <NUM> directed therethrough. Although not shown in <FIG>, the optical ring <NUM> can be positioned within and coupled to the housing <NUM>. The optical ring <NUM> can be positioned behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, in front of the wall <NUM>, in front of the physical shield <NUM>, in front of the focal point <NUM>, in front of the light source <NUM>, and in front of the reflector <NUM>. In addition, the optical ring <NUM> can be positioned so that the optical ring <NUM> can surround the light sources <NUM>, <NUM>, the image shifting lens <NUM>, the physical shield <NUM>, the focal point <NUM>, and the reflector <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the axial symmetric lens <NUM> includes legs <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, while the optical ring <NUM> includes recesses <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Each leg <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> nests within a respective recess <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to secure the axial symmetric lens <NUM> relative to the optical ring <NUM>. In particular, each leg <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> includes a respective protrusion <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that is received within the respective recess <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Then, a respective fastener <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, each of which can be a threaded fastener, can be inserted through a leg and a recess and engaged with the support <NUM> (e.g., threadingly engaged with the support <NUM>) to secure the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, and the optical ring <NUM> to the support <NUM>. For example, the fastener <NUM> can be inserted through the leg <NUM> (e.g., and in particular the protrusion <NUM>) and the recess <NUM> of the optical ring <NUM>, the fastener <NUM> can be inserted through the leg <NUM> (e.g., and in particular the protrusion <NUM>) and the recess <NUM> of the optical ring <NUM>, and the fastener <NUM> can be inserted through the leg <NUM> (e.g., and in particular the protrusion <NUM>) and the recess <NUM> of the optical ring <NUM>. Regardless of the configuration, the axial symmetric lens <NUM> can be coupled to the support <NUM>, and the optical ring <NUM> can be coupled to the support <NUM>. In some cases, with the axial symmetric lens <NUM> having legs coupled the support <NUM>, a relatively constant distance can be maintained between the support <NUM> and the lens portion of the axially symmetric lens <NUM>. In addition, with the legs and recess configuration, the axial symmetric lens <NUM> can be advantageously constrained relative to each other.

<FIG> shows a front view of the optical ring <NUM> and the support <NUM> of the bi-functional lamp <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the optical ring <NUM> has been shown to be transparent to better illustrate the components situated behind the optical ring <NUM>. For example, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include a plurality of light sources <NUM> positioned within the housing <NUM>, which can include light sources <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Each light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be situated behind the optical ring <NUM>. In addition, each light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be positioned behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, in front of the focal point <NUM>, in front of the physical shield <NUM>, in front of the reflector <NUM>, and in front of the light source <NUM>. In some cases, the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be positioned to surround the light source <NUM>, surround the image shifting lens <NUM>, surround the light source <NUM>, surround the focal point <NUM>, and surround the reflector <NUM>. While the plurality of light sources <NUM> are illustrated as having twelve light sources, the light sources <NUM> can include other numbers of light sources including nine light sources, six light sources, four light sources, and even, in some cases, a single light source. In some non-limiting examples, each light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be implemented in a similar manner as the light sources <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, each light source of the light sources <NUM> can be an LED, incandescent bulb, etc..

Each light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be configured to emit light having a different color than the light emitted from the light source <NUM>, the light source <NUM>, or both. For example, each light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be configured to emit amber light, while the light source <NUM>, and the light source <NUM> can be configured to emit white light.

In some non-limiting examples, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include a plurality of light sources <NUM> different from the light sources <NUM>, <NUM>, and the plurality of light sources <NUM>. The plurality of light sources <NUM> can also be positioned within the housing <NUM>, and can be coupled to the support <NUM> The plurality of light sources <NUM> can be positioned behind the optical ring <NUM>, behind the axial symmetric lens <NUM>, in front of the wall <NUM>, in front of the focal point <NUM>, in front of the physical shield <NUM>, in front of the reflector <NUM>, and in front of the light source <NUM>. Although the plurality of light sources <NUM> can include nine light sources, the plurality of light sources <NUM> can include other numbers of light sources including six, and even in some cases, one light source. Each light sources of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be configured to emit light that is different from the light emitted by each of the light sources <NUM>. For example, each light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be configured to emit white light. Regardless of the configuration, light emitted from a light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can follow an optical path that extends through the optical ring <NUM>, and through the axial symmetric lens <NUM> (or the optical ring <NUM>). Similarly, light emitted from a light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can follow an optical path that extends through the optical ring <NUM>, and through the axial symmetric lens <NUM> (or the optical ring <NUM>). In some non-limiting examples, each light source of the plurality of light sources <NUM> can be implemented in a similar manner as the light sources <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, each light source of the light sources <NUM> can be an LED, incandescent bulb, etc..

In some embodiments, the lamp <NUM> can be configured to emit a parking light illumination pattern, a directional indication illumination pattern, a brake illumination pattern, etc. For example, causing the one or more of the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> to emit light can generate a parking illumination pattern (e.g., a parking light illumination pattern), a directional indication illumination pattern (e.g., when the driver initiates a turn signal, and when the lights <NUM>, <NUM> are on or off), a brake light illumination pattern, etc. In this way, with the bi-functional lamp <NUM> able to emit various illumination patterns, the total footprint for lamps the vehicle can be further decreased by using the bi-functional lamp <NUM>. In other words, the vehicle does not need to have a separate high beam light, a separate low beam light, and a separate parking light, etc..

In some non-limiting examples, the image shifting lens <NUM> can be coupled to the support <NUM>, and in particular, the wall <NUM> of the support <NUM>. For example, the image shifting lens <NUM> can include arms <NUM>, <NUM> that extend from respective sides of a lens portion <NUM> of the image shifting lens <NUM>. In some non-limiting examples, the arms <NUM>, <NUM> can be coupled (via fasteners, including threaded fasteners) to a front surface of the wall <NUM> (e.g., facing the axial symmetric lens <NUM>) to ensure that the lens portion <NUM> of the image shifting lens <NUM> is secure, without obscuring light projected through the front surface of the image shifting lens <NUM>. In addition, the arms <NUM>, <NUM> can be monolithic (or in other words integrally formed) with the lens portion <NUM>. In this way, it is ensured that, over time, the position between the arms <NUM>, <NUM> and the lens portion <NUM> are maintained (e.g., a coupling mechanism between the arms <NUM>, <NUM> and the lens portion <NUM> does not fail over time to undesirably change the position between these components).

<FIG> shows a perspective view of the support <NUM> with various light sources coupled thereto. For example, the bi-functional lamp <NUM> can include a circuit board <NUM> that supports and provides an electrical connection for the light source <NUM>, and the plurality of light sources <NUM>, <NUM>. As a more specific example, each light source of the light source <NUM>, and the plurality of light sources <NUM>, <NUM> can be coupled to the circuit board <NUM> and electrically connected to the circuit board <NUM>. Then, the circuit board <NUM>, with the light sources coupled thereto, can be coupled to the support <NUM> (e.g., a surface of the support <NUM> that faces the axial symmetric lens <NUM>).

<FIG> and <FIG> show two graphs of two different light patterns produced by the bi-functional lamp <NUM>. <FIG> shows a low beam illumination pattern <NUM>, which is produced using only the light source <NUM> (e.g., the light source <NUM> is turned off). As shown, the low beam illumination pattern <NUM> has a sharp cut-off region <NUM> that can be provided by the physical shield <NUM>. In other words, the physical shield <NUM> can block light reflected by the reflector <NUM> to cause a substantially straight (i.e., deviating by less than <NUM>°) cut-off region <NUM> for the projected low beam illumination pattern <NUM>. <FIG> shows a combined illumination pattern <NUM> that includes both the low beam illumination pattern <NUM> and the high beam illumination pattern <NUM>. The combined illumination pattern <NUM> can be formed when the low beam illumination pattern <NUM> is projected and the high beam illumination pattern <NUM> is projected (e.g., both light sources <NUM>, <NUM> are on). As shown, a portion of the high beam illumination pattern <NUM> can be overlaid on the low beam illumination pattern <NUM>, near a central region (e.g., vertically and horizontally relative to the view of the graph of <FIG>), which creates a region of the combined illumination pattern <NUM> having a greater lumens value as compared to either the high beam illumination pattern <NUM> or the low beam illumination pattern <NUM> alone.

In some non-limiting examples, the high beam illumination pattern <NUM> and the low beam illumination pattern <NUM>, or both (e.g., the combined illumination pattern <NUM>) can be easily and quickly selected or cycled. For example, because activation of the light source <NUM> generates the low beam illumination pattern <NUM>, and the activation of the light source <NUM> generates the high beam illumination pattern <NUM>, activation or deactivation of the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> can quickly adjust the desired illumination pattern, without the need for any moving components.

The selective activation, and illumination intensity of the lights of the lamp <NUM>, along with the optical rings <NUM>, <NUM> can provide different illumination schemes, including, for example, a daytime running illumination pattern, and a direction indication illumination pattern (e.g., using the amber light sources).

<FIG> shows a flowchart of a process <NUM> for illuminating a scene away from a vehicle using a lamp (e.g., the bi-functional lamp <NUM>). In addition, the process <NUM> can be implemented using one or more computing devices, as appropriate. The computing device (e.g., a controller device) can be in communication with the bi-functional lamp, including each light source of the bi-functional lamp. For example, the computing device can be the computing device of the vehicle, in which the lamp is coupled to the vehicle.

At <NUM>, the process <NUM> can include a computing device (e.g., in communication with the lamp) causing the lamp to emit a low beam illumination pattern. In some non-limiting examples, this can include causing a first light source (e.g., the light source <NUM>) to emit light towards a reflector of the lamp, and towards an axial symmetric lens of the lamp (e.g., after reflecting off the reflector). In some cases, when the lamp emits the low beam illumination pattern, the lamp does not also emit a high beam illumination pattern. For example, in this case, a computing device can cause a second light source (e.g., the light source <NUM>), different from the first light source, to not (or to stop) emitting light. In some non-limiting examples, causing the lamp to emit the low beam illumination pattern does not involve moving a physical shield that obstructs the projection of light out from the lamp.

At <NUM>, the process <NUM> can include a computing device causing the lamp to emit a high beam illumination pattern. In some non-limiting examples, this can include causing the second light source to emit light towards an image shifting lens of the lamp and towards the axial symmetric lens of the lamp (e.g., after passing through the image shifting lens). In some non-limiting examples, causing the lamp to emit the high beam illumination pattern does not involve moving a physical shield that obstructs the projection of light out from the lamp.

At <NUM>, the process <NUM> can include overlaying the high beam illumination pattern with the low beam illumination pattern. In some cases, this can include overlapping a portion of the low beam illumination pattern with a portion of the high beam illumination pattern. In some cases, this can be a related to the position of the light source and corresponding image shifting lens within the lamp (e.g., a bi-functional lamp).

At <NUM>, the process <NUM> can include a computing device receiving a signal from a vehicle that includes the lamp, a sensor in communication with the computing device, etc. In some cases, the signal can be a user input from a vehicle indicative of activation (or deactivation) of a parking brake, a user input indicative of activation or deactivation (e.g., including the turn direction) of a turn signal user input device (e.g., the turn lever of a vehicle), a user input indicative of activation (or deactivation) of a daytime running lights, a user input indicative of activation (or deactivation) of a low beam, a high beam, or both, etc. In some cases, the signal can be received from a sensor in communication with the computing device. For example, the sensor can be a light sensor (e.g., a photoresistor, a phototransistor, etc.), and the signal can be a light sensor value.

If at the block <NUM> a computing device does not receive a signal, the process <NUM> can proceed back to the block <NUM> to, for example, continue emitting the low beam illumination pattern, the high beam illumination pattern, or both. If, however, at the block <NUM> a computing device does receive a signal, the process <NUM> can proceed to the block <NUM>.

At the block <NUM>, the process <NUM> can include a computing device causing the lamp to adjust a light intensity of one or more light sources of the lamp, which can be based on the received signal from the block <NUM>. For example, if at the block <NUM> a computing device received from a vehicle a signal indicative of an activation (or deactivation) of a parking break, the computing device can cause one or more light sources of the lamp to emit (or stop emitting, in the case of the deactivation signal) a parking light illumination pattern. In some cases, this can include causing one or more light sources (e.g., the light sources <NUM>, <NUM>) that surround one or more light sources of the lamp (e.g., the light sources <NUM>, <NUM>) to begin emitting light. As another example, if at the block <NUM>, a computing device receives from a vehicle a turn signal indicative of activation (or deactivation) of a turn signal user input device, the computing device can cause one or more light sources of the lamp to emit (or stop emitting, in the case of a deactivation signal) a directional indication illumination pattern. In some cases, this can include causing one or more light sources (e.g., the light sources <NUM>) to emit amber light at a blinking frequency (or in other words a flashing frequency). In some cases, if the lamp is positioned on the same side of the vehicle as the direction indicated by the turn signal (e.g., the right side lamp, and a right turn), then the computing device can cause the one or more lights to blink at a frequency. If, however, the lamp is positioned on an opposing side of the direction indicated by the turn signal, then the computing device can cause the one or more light sources of the lamp not to emit light. In some cases, while the one or more light sources are flashing at a particular frequency, the lamp emits the high beam illumination pattern, the low beam illumination pattern, or both.

As yet another example, if at the block <NUM>, a computing device receives a user input indicative of activation (or deactivation) of daytime running lights, the computing device can cause one or more light sources of the lamp to emit a daytime illumination pattern. In some cases, this can include causing one or more of the light sources <NUM>, <NUM> to emit light to generate the daytime illumination pattern. As still another example, if at the block <NUM>, a computing device receives a user input indicative of activation (or deactivation) of a low beam, a high beam, or both, the computing device can cause the one or more light sources of the lamp to emit (or stop emitting in the case of deactivation) the low beam illumination pattern, the high beam illumination pattern, or both, depending on the user input. As still yet another example, if at the block <NUM> a computing device receives a sensor value from a sensor that exceeds (e.g., is less than) a threshold, the computing device can cause one or more light sources of the lamp to emit light (or stop emitting light). For example, the sensor can be a light sensor, and the sensor value can be a light sensor value. In this case, the light sensor value can be compared to a threshold light sensor value, and if the light sensor value exceeds (e.g., is less than) the threshold, the computing device can cause the lamp to emit a high beam illumination pattern, a low beam illumination pattern, or both. If however, the light sensor value is less than a threshold value, the computing device can cause the lamp to stop emitting the high beam illumination pattern, the low beam illumination pattern, or both.

As another example, if at the block <NUM>, a computing device receives a user input indicative of increasing (or decreasing) the illumination intensity of the high beam illumination pattern, the low beam illumination pattern, or both, then the computing device can cause the one or more light sources of the lamp to increase (or decrease) the power (e.g., current) provided to each of the light sources that generate the low beam illumination pattern, the high beam illumination pattern. As a more specific example, if a computing device receives a user input indicative of increasing a high beam illumination pattern, the computing device can cause the light source <NUM> to increase the light intensity of the light emitted by the light source <NUM> (e.g., by driving more power to the light source <NUM>). As another more specific example, if a computing device receives a user input indicative of decreasing a low beam illumination pattern, the computing device can cause the light source <NUM> to decrease the light intensity of the light emitted by the light source <NUM> (e.g., by driving less power to the light source <NUM>).

Although some of the discussion above is framed in particular around systems, such as the bi-functional lamp <NUM>, those of skill in the art will recognize therein an inherent feature of corresponding methods of use (and of making) of these systems. Correspondingly, some non-limiting examples can include methods of using a bi-functional lamp, and methods of forming (or making) a bi-functional lamp.

Although the invention has been described and illustrated in the foregoing illustrative non-limiting examples, it is understood that the present examples have been made only by way of example, and that numerous changes in the details of implementation of the invention can be made without departing from the scope of the invention, which is limited only by the claims that follow. Features of non-limiting examples can be combined and rearranged in various ways.

The present invention has described one or more preferred non-limiting examples, and it should be appreciated that many equivalents, alternatives, variations, and modifications, aside from those expressly stated, are possible and within the scope of the invention.

It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other non-limiting examples and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

As used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, discussion of particular directions is provided by example only, with regard to particular non-limiting examples or relevant illustrations. For example, discussion of "top," "front," or "back" features is generally intended as a description only of the orientation of such features relative to a reference frame of a particular example or illustration. Correspondingly, for example, a "top" feature may sometimes be disposed below a "bottom" feature (and so on), in some arrangements or non-limiting examples. Further, references to particular rotational or other movements (e.g., counterclockwise rotation) is generally intended as a description only of movement relative a reference frame of a particular example of illustration.

In some non-limiting examples, including computerized implementations of methods can be implemented as a system, method, apparatus, or article of manufacture using standard programming or engineering techniques to produce software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof to control a processor device (e.g., a serial or parallel general purpose or specialized processor chip, a single- or multi-core chip, a microprocessor, a field programmable gate array, any variety of combinations of a control unit, arithmetic logic unit, and processor register, and so on), a computer (e.g., a processor device operatively coupled to a memory), or another electronically operated controller to implement aspects detailed herein. Accordingly, for example, non-limiting examples can be implemented as a set of instructions, tangibly embodied on a non-transitory computer-readable media, such that a processor device can implement the instructions based upon reading the instructions from the computer-readable media. Some non-limiting examples can include (or utilize) a control device such as an automation device, a special purpose or general purpose computer including various computer hardware, software, firmware, and so on, consistent with the discussion below. As specific examples, a control device can include a processor, a microcontroller, a field-programmable gate array, a programmable logic controller, logic gates etc., and other typical components that are known in the art for implementation of appropriate functionality (e.g., memory, communication systems, power sources, user interfaces and other inputs, etc.).

As used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, ordinal numbers are used herein for convenience of reference based generally on the order in which particular components are presented. In this regard, for example, designations such as "first," "second," etc., generally indicate only the order in which the relevant component is introduced for discussion and generally do not indicate or require a particular spatial arrangement, functional or structural primacy or order.

As used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, directional terms are used for convenience of reference for discussion of particular figures or examples. For example, references to downward (or other) directions or top (or other) positions may be used to discuss aspects of a particular example or figure, but do not necessarily require similar orientation or geometry in all installations or configurations.

Claim 1:
A lamp (<NUM>) for a vehicle comprising:
a housing (<NUM>);
an axial symmetric lens (<NUM>) coupled to the housing (<NUM>) and defining an optical axis (<NUM>) and a focal point (<NUM>);
a first light source (<NUM>) positioned within the housing (<NUM>), the first light source (<NUM>) being positioned behind the focal point (<NUM>) of the axial symmetric lens (<NUM>) relative to the optical axis (<NUM>);
a second light source (<NUM>) positioned within the housing (<NUM>), the second light source (<NUM>) being positioned in front of the focal point (<NUM>) of the axial symmetric lens (<NUM>) relative to the optical axis (<NUM>); and
an image shifting lens (<NUM>) positioned within the housing (<NUM>) between the second light source (<NUM>) and the axial symmetric lens (<NUM>);
the first light source (<NUM>) is configured to emit first light along a first optical path (<NUM>) that extends from the first light source (<NUM>), toward the axial symmetric lens (<NUM>) below the optical axis (<NUM>), and through the axial symmetric lens (<NUM>) to define a low beam illumination pattern, and
the second light source (<NUM>) is configured to emit second light along a second optical path (<NUM>) that extends, from the second light source (<NUM>), through the image shifting lens (<NUM>), towards the axial symmetric lens (<NUM>) above the optical axis (<NUM>), and through the axial symmetric lens (<NUM>) to define a high beam illumination pattern.