Patent Description:
The present invention relates to a lamp for vehicles and a vehicle having the same.

In general, a vehicle is an apparatus which moves a user riding therein in a desired direction. A common example of a vehicle is a car.

Various lamps are typically provided in a vehicle. For example, a vehicle typically implements head lamps, rear combination lamps, daytime running lamp (DRLs) and fog lamps.

Various devices may be used as light sources of such lamps provided in the vehicle.

<CIT> relates to a device including a light source, a sensor, and a controller, wherein the light source includes at least one light emitting device connected to a mount.

<CIT> relates to a projector type headlight including a projection lens arranged on an optical axis extending in a longitudinal direction of a vehicle.

<CIT> relates to a device having multiple LED light sources whose light emitting surface radiates electromagnetic radiation.

Dependent claims refer to preferred embodiments.

Implementations disclosed herein enable a lamp for a vehicle that is comprising: a light generation unit comprising an array provided with a plurality of micro-light emitting diode (micro-LED) chips arranged therein; and a lens configured to redirect light beams generated by the light generation unit, wherein the light generation unit is configured to output a plurality of beams having a divergence angle defined in a vertical direction, and wherein the lens is arranged to have a largest vertical cross-section thereof inscribed in the divergence angle of the beams that are output from the light generation unit.

According to the invention, the array comprising the plurality of micro-LED chips comprises a first group of micro-LED chips arranged at an uppermost portion of the array and configured to output first beams.

According to the invention, a second group of micro-LED chips is arranged at a lowermost portion of the array and configured to output second beams.

According to the invention, the divergence angle is defined between the first beams output from the first group of micro-LED chips and the second beams output from the second group of micro-LED chips.

Preferably, the largest vertical cross-section of the lens contacts a first plane that extends from the first group of micro-LED chips.

Preferably, the first plane forms an angle of <NUM> to <NUM> degrees in the upward direction relative to a first optical axis of the first group of micro-LED chips.

Preferably, the largest vertical cross-section of the lens contacts a second plane that extends from the second group of micro-LED chips.

Preferably, the second plane forms an angle of <NUM> to <NUM> degrees in the downward direction relative to a second optical axis of the second group of micro-LED chips.

Preferably, the lens is configured to have a diameter along the largest vertical cross-section that is based on a width of the array formed in the vertical direction.

Preferably, the lens is configured to have a diameter along the largest vertical cross-section that is <NUM> times to <NUM> times the width of the array formed in the vertical direction.

Preferably, the lamp for a vehicle is further comprising an air layer that is defined between the array and the lens.

Preferably, the air layer has a thickness of <NUM> to <NUM>.

Preferably, a curvature of the lens defines at least one side of the air layer having a convex shape curving away from the array.

According to a first option of the invention, the lens is configured to have a hollow interior formed therein.

Preferably, the lens comprises a first member and a second member that together define the hollow interior therebetween.

Preferably, the first member is located between the array and the hollow interior.

Preferably, the second member is located between the hollow interior and an outside of a vehicle towards which light from the array is directed by the lens.

Preferably, a second thickness of the second member of the lens is greater than a first thickness of the first member of the lens.

According to a second option of the invention, the lens is configured to have the largest vertical cross-section that comprises a first cross-sectional portion that has the shape of a part of a first circle having a first radius.

According to the second option of the invention, the lens is configured to have the largest vertical cross-section that comprises a second cross-sectional portion that is adjacent to the first cross-sectional portion and that has the shape of a part of a second circle having a second radius.

Preferably, the first cross-sectional portion of the lens is located closer to the array than the second cross-sectional portion of the lens.

Preferably, the first radius is greater than the second radius.

Preferably, a maximum thickness of the second shape is greater than a maximum thickness of the first shape.

Preferably, the lens comprises one or more bent parts formed along a length direction of the lens.

Implementations disclosed herein enable a lamp for a vehicle that is a light generation unit comprising an array provided with a plurality of micro-light emitting diode (micro-LED) chips arranged therein; and a lens that is configured to redirect light generated by the light generation unit,
wherein the plurality of micro-LED chips in the light generation unit comprises: at least one first micro-LED chip configured to output an uppermost portion of the light generated by the light generation unit; and at least one second micro-LED chip configured to output a lowermost portion of the light generated by the light generation unit, and wherein the lens is configured to redirect the light generated by the light generation unit by redirecting light that extends from the uppermost portion to the lowermost portion of the light generated by the light generation unit.

Preferably, the uppermost portion of the light is defined by a first plane that extends outward from the at least first micro-LED chip.

Preferably, the lowermost portion of the light is defined by a second plane that extends outward from the at least one second micro-LED chip.

Preferably, the lens is configured to be inscribed within the first plane and the second plane.

Preferably, the lens is configured to have a maximum cross-sectional width in a vertical direction that is <NUM> times to <NUM> times a width of the array in the vertical direction. Preferably, the lens is configured to have the largest vertical cross-section that comprises a first cross-sectional portion that has a first shape having a first radius. Preferably, the lens is configured to have the largest vertical cross-section that comprises a second cross-sectional portion that is adjacent to the first cross-sectional portion and that has the shape of a second part having a second radius.

Light that is output from lamps of a vehicle, such as daytime running lamps (DRLs), tail lamps, and brake lamps, is typically designed to have high uniformity of output while maintaining proper illumination.

However, vehicle lamps that implement conventional LEDs or LDs often have difficult in achieving high uniformity of output.

Implementations disclosed herein enable a lamp for a vehicle that utilizes a plurality of micro-LEDs and is better able to maintain proper illumination and while achieving high uniformity of output.

In the following description, a vehicle may be any suitable motorized vehicle and may include cars, motorcycles, etc. Hereinafter, description will be given using an example of a vehicle as a car.

In the following description, a vehicle may be powered by any suitable source of power, and may include, for example, an internal combustion engine vehicle provided with an engine as a power source, a hybrid electric vehicle provided with an engine and an electric motor as power sources, an electric vehicle provided with an electric motor as a power source, etc..

In the following description, the left side of a vehicle refers to the left side in a driving direction of the vehicle, and the right side of the vehicle refers to the right side in the driving direction of the vehicle.

<FIG> are views illustrating an external appearance of a vehicle in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, a vehicle <NUM> may include lamps for vehicles <NUM>.

The lamps for vehicles <NUM> may include head lamps <NUM>, rear combination lamps 100b, and fog lamps 100c.

The lamps for vehicles <NUM> may further include room lamps, turn signal lamps, daytime running lamps 100a, reverse lamps, positioning lamps, etc..

Here, an overall length means a length from the front part to the rear part of the vehicle <NUM>, an overall width means a width of the vehicle <NUM>, and an overall height means a length from the lower parts of wheels to a roof of the vehicle <NUM>. In the following description, an overall length direction L may mean a direction serving as a criterion for measuring the overall length of the vehicle <NUM>, an overall width direction W may mean a direction serving as a criterion for measuring the overall width of the vehicle <NUM>, and an overall height direction H may mean a direction serving as a criterion for measuring the overall height of the vehicle <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram of a lamp for vehicles in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, a vehicle lamp <NUM> may include a light generation unit <NUM>, a processor <NUM> and a power supply unit <NUM>.

The vehicle lamp <NUM> may further include an input unit <NUM>, a sensing unit <NUM>, an interface unit <NUM>, a memory <NUM> and a posture adjustment unit <NUM> individually or in combination.

The input unit <NUM> may receive user input to control the vehicle lamp <NUM>.

The input unit <NUM> may include one or more input devices. For example, the input unit <NUM> may include at least one of a touch input device, a mechanical input device, a gesture input device and a voice input device.

The input unit <NUM> may receive user input to control operation of the light generation unit <NUM>.

For example, the input unit <NUM> may receive user input to control turning-on operation or turning-off operation of the light generation unit <NUM>.

The sensing unit <NUM> may include one or more sensors.

For example, the sensing unit <NUM> may include a temperature sensor or an illumination sensor.

The sensing unit <NUM> may acquire temperature information of the light generation unit <NUM>.

The sensing unit <NUM> may acquire illumination information at the outside of the vehicle <NUM>.

The interface unit <NUM> may exchange information, signals or data with other devices provided in the vehicle <NUM>.

The interface unit <NUM> may transmit information, signals or data received from other devices provided in the vehicle to the processor <NUM>.

The interface unit <NUM> may transmit information, signals or data generated by the processor <NUM> to other devices provided in the vehicle <NUM>.

The interface unit <NUM> may receive driving condition information.

The driving condition information may include at least one of object information at the outside of the vehicle <NUM>, navigation information and vehicle state information.

The object information at the outside of the vehicle <NUM> may include information as to whether or not an object is present, position information of the object, movement information of the object, distance information of the object from the vehicle <NUM>, relative velocity information of the object to the vehicle <NUM>, and information regarding kinds of objects.

The object information may be generated by an object detection device provided in the vehicle <NUM>. The object detection device may detect an object based on sensing data generated by one or more selected from a camera, a radar, a lidar, an ultrasonic sensor and an infrared sensor.

Here, objects may include traffic lanes, other vehicles, pedestrians, two-wheeled vehicles, traffic signals, light, roads, structures, speed bumps, landmarks, animals, etc..

The navigation information may include at least one of map information, set destination information, path information due to setting of the destination, information regarding various objects on a path, traffic lane information and current position information of the vehicle <NUM>.

The navigation information may be generated by a navigation apparatus provided in the vehicle <NUM>.

The vehicle state information may include vehicle dynamic information, vehicle velocity information, vehicle inclination information, vehicle weight information, vehicle direction information, vehicle battery information, vehicle fuel information, vehicle tire pressure information, vehicle steering information, vehicle indoor temperature information, vehicle indoor humidity information, pedal position information, engine temperature information, etc..

The vehicle state information may be generated based on sensing information acquired by various sensors provided in the vehicle <NUM>.

The memory <NUM> may store basic data of respective units of the vehicle lamp <NUM>, control data to control operations of the respective units, and data input to or output from the vehicle lamp <NUM>.

The memory <NUM> may be one of various storage devices, such as a ROM, a RAM, an EPROM, a flash drive, a hard drive, etc., hardware-wise.

The memory <NUM> may store various kinds of data to control the overall operation of the vehicle lamp <NUM>, such as programs for processing or control through the processor <NUM>.

The memory <NUM> may be classified as a lower-level component of the processor <NUM>.

The light generation unit <NUM> may convert electric energy into light energy under the control of the processor <NUM>.

The light generation unit <NUM> may include an array <NUM> in which a plurality of groups of micro-light emitting diode (LED) chips is arranged.

The array <NUM> may be formed to be flexible.

The micro-LED chips of the groups may have different shapes.

According to embodiments, a plurality of arrays may be provided. The arrays may form an array module <NUM> (in <FIG>).

According to embodiments, in the array module <NUM>, the arrays may be stacked.

The array module <NUM> may be formed to be flexible.

For example, the array <NUM> having flexibility may be formed by disposing a flexible copper clad laminate (FCCL) on a base <NUM> (in <FIG>) formed of a flexible material and transferring micro-LED chips having a size of several µm onto the FCCL.

The micro-LED chips may be referred to as micro-LED packages.

The micro-LED chips may include light emitting diodes (LEDs) therein.

The micro-LED chips may have a size of several µm. For example, the micro-LED chips may have a size of <NUM>-<NUM>.

The LEDs of the micro-LED chips may be transferred onto a substrate.

The array <NUM> may include a plurality of sub-arrays in which a plurality of micro-LED chip groups is respectively arranged.

For example, the sub-arrays may have various figure shapes having designated areas.

For example, the sub-arrays may have a circular shape, a polygonal shape, a fan shape, etc..

The substrate may include a flexible copper clad laminate (FCCL).

For example, the base <NUM> (in <FIG>) and a first electrode <NUM> (in <FIG>) may form a substrate.

For example, a base <NUM> (in <FIG>) and a second anode 912b (in <FIG>) may form a substrate.

The posture adjustment unit <NUM> may adjust the posture of the light generation unit <NUM>.

The posture adjustment unit <NUM> may tilt the light generation unit <NUM>. Light output from the light generation unit <NUM> may be adjusted so as to travel in the upward and downward directions (for example, in the overall height direction), according to tilting of the light generation unit <NUM>.

The posture adjustment unit <NUM> may pan the light generation unit <NUM>. Light output from the light generation unit <NUM> may be adjusted so as to travel in the leftward and rightward directions (for example, in the overall width direction), according to panning of the light generation unit <NUM>.

The posture adjustment unit <NUM> may include a driving power generation unit to provide driving power necessary to adjust the posture of the light generation unit <NUM> (for example, a motor, an actuator or a solenoid).

If the light generation unit <NUM> generates low beams, the posture adjustment unit <NUM> may adjust the posture of the light generation unit <NUM> so as to output light to a lower area than if the light generation unit <NUM> generates high beams.

If the light generation unit <NUM> generates high beams the posture adjustment unit <NUM> may adjust the posture of the light generation unit <NUM> so as to output light to a higher area than if the light generation unit <NUM> generates low beams.

The processor <NUM> may be conductively connected to the respective components of the vehicle lamp <NUM>. The processor <NUM> may control the overall operations of the respective components of the vehicle lamp <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may control the light generation unit <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may control the light generation unit <NUM> by adjusting an amount of electrical energy supplied to the light generation unit <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may control the array <NUM> according to regions.

For example, the processor <NUM> may control the array <NUM> according to regions by supplying different amounts of electrical energy to the micro-LED chips arranged in the respective regions of the array <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may control the array module <NUM> according to layers.

The arrays <NUM> of the array module <NUM> may form the respective layers of the array module <NUM>.

For example, the processor <NUM> may control the array module <NUM> according to layers by supplying different amounts of electrical energy to the respective layers of the array module <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may individually control the sub-arrays.

For example, the processor <NUM> may control the sub-arrays so as to sequentially output generated beams in a designated direction, based on the arrangement positions of the sub-arrays.

The power supply unit <NUM> may supply electrical energy necessary to operate the respective units of the vehicle lamp <NUM>, under the control of the processor <NUM>. Particularly, the power supply unit <NUM> may receive power from a battery, etc. in the vehicle <NUM>.

<FIG> are reference views illustrating lamps for vehicles in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

<FIG> exemplarily illustrates a daytime running lamp 100a as a lamp for vehicles.

In order to allow other vehicle drivers to recognize the vehicle <NUM> while minimizing glare, light output from the daytime running lamp 100a needs to be uniform.

For this purpose, in the daytime running lamp 100a, a lens may have a circular or oval vertical cross-section.

<FIG> exemplarily illustrates a tail lamp 100b as a lamp for vehicles.

In order to allow other vehicle drivers to recognize the vehicle <NUM> while minimizing glare, light output from the tail lamp 100b needs to be uniform.

For this purpose, in the tail lamp 100a, a lens may have a circular or oval vertical cross-section.

The vehicle lamp <NUM> in accordance with the present invention may be applied to a brake lamp in addition to the daytime running lamp 100a and the tail lamp 100b.

<FIG> is a reference view illustrating the array provided with a plurality of micro-LED chips arranged therein, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, a plurality of micro-LED chips <NUM> may be arranged in the array <NUM>.

In the array <NUM>, the micro-LED chips <NUM> may be formed by transfer.

An arrangement interval and density (i.e., the number of micro-LED chips per unit area) of the micro-LED chips <NUM> in the array <NUM> may be determined based on a transfer interval.

The array <NUM> may include a plurality of sub-arrays <NUM> in which a plurality of groups of micro-LED chips <NUM> is respectively arranged.

The array <NUM> may include a base <NUM> and one or more sub-arrays <NUM>.

The base <NUM> may be formed of a material, such as polyimide (PI).

According to embodiments, the base <NUM> may be substrate. For example, the base <NUM> may be a flexible copper clad laminate (FCCL) which will be described later.

The sub-arrays <NUM> may be arranged on the base <NUM>.

In the sub-array <NUM>, a plurality of micro-LED chips <NUM> may be arranged.

The sub-arrays <NUM> may be formed by cutting a main array formed by arranging the micro-LED chips <NUM> on the FCCL.

In this case, the shapes of the sub-arrays <NUM> may be determined based on cut-out shapes of the main array.

For example, the sub-arrays <NUM> may have 2D figure shapes (for example, a circular shape, a polygonal shape and a fan shape).

<FIG> is a reference view illustrating the array provided with the micro-LED chips arranged therein, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, the array <NUM> may include a polyimide layer <NUM>, a flexible copper clad laminate (FCCL) <NUM>, a reflective layer <NUM>, an interlayer dielectric film <NUM>, a plurality of micro-LED chips <NUM>, a second electrode <NUM>, an optical spacer <NUM>, a phosphor layer <NUM>, a color filter film <NUM> and a cover film <NUM>.

The polyimide layer <NUM> may be formed to be flexible.

The FCCL <NUM> may be formed of copper. The FCCL <NUM> may be referred to as a first electrode.

According to embodiments, the polyimide layer <NUM> and the FCCL <NUM> may be referred to as a base <NUM>.

According to embodiments, the polyimide layer <NUM> may be referred to as a base.

The first electrode <NUM> and the second electrode <NUM> may conductively connected to the micro-LEDs <NUM> and thus provide power to the micro-LEDs <NUM>.

The first electrode <NUM> and the second electrode <NUM> may be transparent electrodes.

The first electrode <NUM> may be an anode.

The second electrode <NUM> may be a cathode.

The first electrode <NUM> and the second electrode <NUM> may include a metal, for example, any one selected from the group consisting of nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), rhodium (Rh), tantalum (Ta), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), silver (Ag), tungsten (W), copper (Cu), chrome (Cr), palladium (Pd), vanadium (V), cobalt (C), niobium (Nb), zirconium (Zr), indium tin oxide (ITO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO) and indium zinc oxide (IZO), or an alloy thereof.

The first electrode <NUM> may be formed between the polyimide film <NUM> and the reflective layer <NUM>.

The second electrode <NUM> may be formed on the interlayer dielectric film <NUM>.

The reflective layer <NUM> may be formed on the FCCL <NUM>. The reflective layer <NUM> may reflect light generated by the micro-LED chips <NUM>. The reflective layer <NUM> may be formed of silver (Ag).

The interlayer dielectric film <NUM> may be formed on the reflective layer <NUM>.

The micro-LED chips <NUM> may be formed on the FCCL <NUM>. The micro-LED chips <NUM> may be adhered to the reflective layer <NUM> or the FCCL <NUM> through solder or an anisotropic conductive film (ACF).

Here, the micro-LED chips <NUM> may mean LED chips having a size of <NUM>-<NUM>.

The optical spacer <NUM> may be formed on the interlayer dielectric film <NUM>. The optical spacer <NUM> serves to maintain a distance between the micro-LED chips <NUM> and the phosphor layer <NUM> and may be formed of an insulating material.

The phosphor layer <NUM> may be formed on the optical spacer <NUM>. The phosphor layer <NUM> may be formed of a resin in which phosphors are uniformly dispersed. At least one of a blue phosphor, a blue-green phosphor, a green phosphor, a yellow-green phosphor, a yellow phosphor, a yellow-red phosphor, an orange phosphor and a red phosphor may be used according to the wavelength of light emitted by the micro-LED chips <NUM>.

That is, the phosphors may be excited by light having first beams emitted by the micro-LED chips <NUM> and thus generate second beams.

The color filter film <NUM> may be formed on the phosphor layer <NUM>. The color filter film <NUM> may implement a designated color in light passed through the phosphor layer <NUM>. The color filter film <NUM> may implement at least one of red (R), green (G) and blue (B), or a color formed by a combination thereof.

The cover film <NUM> may be formed on the color filter film <NUM>. The cover film <NUM> may protect the array <NUM>.

<FIG> is a reference view illustrating the array module in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, the light generation unit <NUM> may include the array module <NUM> including a plurality of arrays.

For example, the light generation unit <NUM> may include a first array <NUM> and a second array <NUM>.

At least one of an arrangement interval between micro-LED chips, arrangement positions of the micro-LED chips and a density of the micro-LED chips of the first array <NUM> may be different from that of the second array <NUM>.

At least one of an arrangement interval between micro-LED chips, arrangement positions of the micro-LED chips and a density of the micro-LED chips of the second array <NUM> may be different from that of the first array <NUM>.

Here, the density of the micro-LED chips means the number of the micro-LED chips per unit area.

In the first array <NUM>, a first group of micro-LED chips may be arranged in a first pattern.

The first pattern may be determined by at least one of the arrangement interval between the micro-LED chips of the first group, the arrangement positions of the micro-LED chips of the first group and the density of the micro-LED chips of the first group.

The micro-LED chips included in the first array <NUM> may be arranged at a first interval.

The micro-LED chips included in the first group may be arranged at the first interval.

In the second array <NUM>, a second group of micro-LED chips may be arranged in a second pattern differing from the first pattern.

The second pattern may be determined by at least one of the arrangement interval between the micro-LED chips of the second group, the arrangement positions of the micro-LED chips of the second group and the density of the micro-LED chips of the second group.

The micro-LED chips included in the second array <NUM> may be arranged at the same interval as the interval between the micro-LED chips included in the first array <NUM>.

The micro-LED chips included in the second group may be arranged at the same interval as the interval between the micro-LED chips included in the first group.

That is, the micro-LED chips included in the second group may be arranged at the first interval.

The micro-LED chips included in the second group may be arranged so as not to overlap the micro-LED chips included in the first group in the vertical direction or in the horizontal direction.

For example, the micro-LED chips of the first group may be arranged in the first array <NUM> so as not to overlap the micro-LED chips of the second group, as the first and second arrays <NUM> and <NUM> in the overlap state are seen from the top.

For example, the micro-LED chips of the second group may be arranged in the second array <NUM> so as not to overlap the micro-LED chips of the first group, as the first and second arrays <NUM> and <NUM> in the overlap state are seen from the top.

Through such arrangement, interference of the first group of the micro-LED chips with light output of the second group of the micro-LED chips may be minimized.

According to embodiments, the light generation unit <NUM> may include three or more arrays.

<FIG> is an elevation view exemplarily illustrating the array module in an overlap state of a plurality of arrays.

<FIG> is a side view exemplarily illustrating the array module in the overlap state of the arrays.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the processor <NUM> may control the array module <NUM> according to regions <NUM> to <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may adjust a light distribution pattern by controlling the array module <NUM> according to the regions <NUM> to <NUM>.

The array module <NUM> may be divided into a plurality of regions <NUM> to <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may adjust amounts of electrical energy supplied to the respective regions <NUM> to <NUM>.

The processor <NUM> may adjust the intensity of output light by controlling the array module <NUM> according to layers.

The array module <NUM> may include a plurality of layers. Each layer may be formed by each of the arrays.

For example, a first layer of the array module <NUM> may be formed by a first array, and a second layer of the array module <NUM> may be formed by a second array.

The processor <NUM> may adjust amounts of electrical energy supplied to the respective layers.

<FIG> is a reference cross-sectional view illustrating the array module in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

Although <FIG> exemplarily illustrates the first array <NUM> and the second array <NUM> included in the array module <NUM>, the array module <NUM> may include three or more arrays.

With reference to <FIG>, the array module <NUM> may include a polyimide layer <NUM>, the first array <NUM> and the second array <NUM>.

According to embodiments, the array module <NUM> may further include a phosphor layer <NUM>, a color filter film <NUM> and a cover film <NUM> individually or in combination.

The second array <NUM> may be located on a base.

According to embodiments, a layer formed by the polyimide layer <NUM> and a second anode 912b may be referred to as the base.

According to embodiments, the polyimide layer <NUM> may be referred to as the base.

The second array <NUM> may be located between the first base <NUM> and the polyimide layer <NUM>.

The second array <NUM> may include the second anode 912b, a reflective layer <NUM>, a second interlayer dielectric film 914b, a second group of micro-LED chips 920b, a second optical spacer 916b and a second cathode 915b.

The second anode 912b may be a flexible copper clad laminate (FCCL). The second anode 912b may be formed of copper.

The second anode 912b and the second cathode 915b may be transmissive electrodes.

The second anode 912b and the second cathode 915b may be referred to as transparent electrodes.

The second array <NUM> may include transparent electrodes.

The second anode 912b and the second cathode 915b may include a metal, for example, any one selected from the group consisting of nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), rhodium (Rh), tantalum (Ta), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), silver (Ag), tungsten (W), copper (Cu), chrome (Cr), palladium (Pd), vanadium (V), cobalt (C), niobium (Nb), zirconium (Zr), indium tin oxide (ITO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO) and indium zinc oxide (IZO), or an alloy thereof.

The second anode 912b may be formed between the base <NUM> and the reflective layer <NUM>.

The second cathode 915b may be formed on the second interlayer dielectric film 914b.

The reflective layer <NUM> may be formed on the second anode 912b. The reflective layer <NUM> may reflect light generated by the micro-LED chips <NUM>. The reflective layer <NUM> may be formed of silver (Ag).

The second interlayer dielectric layer 914b may be formed on the reflective layer <NUM>.

The second group of the micro-LED chips 920b may be formed on the second anode 912b. The micro-LED chips 920b of the second group may be adhered to the reflective layer <NUM> or the second anode 912b through solder or an anisotropic conductive film (ACF).

The second optical spacer 916b may be formed on the second interlayer dielectric film 914b. The second optical spacer 916b serves to maintain a distance between the second group of the micro-LED chips 920b and the first array <NUM> and may be formed of an insulating material.

The first array <NUM> may be formed on the second array <NUM>.

The first array <NUM> may include a first anode 912a, a first interlayer dielectric film 914a, a first group of micro-LED chips 920a, a first optical spacer 916a and a first cathode 915a.

The first anode 912a may be a flexible copper clad laminate (FCCL). The first anode 912a may be formed of copper.

The first anode 912a and the first cathode 915a may be transmissive electrodes.

The first anode 912a and the first cathode 915a may be referred to as transparent electrodes.

The first array <NUM> may include transparent electrodes.

The first anode 912a and the first cathode 915a may include a metal, for example, any one selected from the group consisting of nickel (Ni), platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), iridium (Ir), rhodium (Rh), tantalum (Ta), molybdenum (Mo), titanium (Ti), silver (Ag), tungsten (W), copper (Cu), chrome (Cr), palladium (Pd), vanadium (V), cobalt (C), niobium (Nb), zirconium (Zr), indium tin oxide (ITO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO) and indium zinc oxide (IZO), or an alloy thereof.

The first anode 912a may be formed between the second optical spacer 916b and the first interlayer dielectric film 914a.

The first cathode 915a may be formed on the first interlayer dielectric film 914a.

The first interlayer dielectric layer 914a may be formed on the first anode 912a.

The first group of the micro-LED chips 920a may be formed on the first anode 912a. The micro-LED chips 920a of the first group may be adhered to the first anode 912a through solder or an anisotropic conductive film (ACF).

The first optical spacer 916a may be formed on the first interlayer dielectric film 914a. The first optical spacer 916a serves to maintain a distance between the first group of the micro-LED chips 920a and the phosphor layer <NUM> and may be formed of an insulating material.

The phosphor layer <NUM> may be formed on the first array <NUM> and the second array <NUM>.

The phosphor layer <NUM> may be formed on the first optical spacer 916a. The phosphor layer <NUM> may be formed of a resin in which phosphors are uniformly dispersed. At least one of a blue phosphor, a blue-green phosphor, a green phosphor, a yellow-green phosphor, a yellow phosphor, a yellow-red phosphor, an orange phosphor and a red phosphor may be used according to the wavelength of light emitted by the micro-LED chips 920a and 920b of the first and second groups.

The phosphor layer <NUM> may change the wavelength of light emitted by the first and second groups of the micro-LED chips 920a and 920b.

The phosphor layer <NUM> may change the wavelength of first beams generated by the first group of the micro-LED chips 920a and the wavelength of second beams generated by the second group of the micro-LED chips 920b.

The cover film <NUM> may be formed on the color filter film <NUM>. The cover film <NUM> may protect the array module <NUM>.

The micro-LED chips 920b included in the second array <NUM> may be arranged so as not to overlap the micro-LED chips 920a in the first array <NUM> in the vertical direction or in the horizontal direction.

The micro-LED chips 920a included in the second group may be arranged so as not to overlap the micro-LED chips 920a included in the first group in the vertical direction or in the horizontal direction.

Here, the vertical direction may be a direction in which the first and second arrays <NUM> and <NUM> of the array module <NUM> are stacked.

The first and second groups of micro-LED chips 920a and 920b may output light in the vertical direction.

The horizontal direction may be a direction in which the first and second groups of the micro-LED chips 920a and 920b are arranged.

The horizontal direction may be a direction in which the polyimide layer <NUM>, the first and second anodes 912a and 912b or the phosphor layer <NUM> is extended.

The vehicle lamp <NUM> may further include wirings to supply power to the array module <NUM>.

For example, the vehicle lamp <NUM> may further include first wirings <NUM> and second wirings <NUM>.

The first wirings <NUM> may supply power to the first array <NUM>. A pair of first wirings <NUM> may be provided. The first wirings <NUM> may be connected to the first anode 912a and/or the first cathode 915a.

The second wirings <NUM> may supply power to the second array <NUM>. A pair of second wirings <NUM> may be provided. The second wirings <NUM> may be connected to the second anode 912b and/or the second cathode 915b.

The first wirings <NUM> and the second wirings <NUM> may be arranged so as not to overlap each other.

<FIG> is a view exemplarily illustrating an overall external appearance of an array in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

<FIG> and <FIG> are schematic views briefly illustrating the array and micro-LED chips in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. <FIG> and <FIG> are side views.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG>, a plurality of groups of micro-LED chips 920c and 920d may be arranged in the array <NUM>.

The micro-LED chips 920c and 920b of the respective groups may have different shapes.

As exemplarily shown in <FIG>, the array <NUM> may be bent so as to have a plurality of curvature values according to regions.

The array <NUM> may be divided into a plurality of regions <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>.

The array <NUM> may be divided into the regions <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> according to curvature values.

The array <NUM> may include a first region <NUM>, a second region <NUM> and a third region <NUM>.

The first region <NUM> may be a bending region having a first curvature value.

The second region <NUM> may be a bending region having a second curvature value. The second curvature value may be greater than the first curvature value.

The third region <NUM> may be a bending region having a third curvature value. The third curvature value may be greater than the first curvature value.

Here, the curvature value may be defined as a reciprocal of the radius of a circle contacting the inner bent surface of the array <NUM> (opposite the surface of the array <NUM> outputting light) when the array <NUM> is bent.

Otherwise, the curvature value may be described as a degree of bending of the array <NUM>.

For example, if the curvature value of one region of the array <NUM> is <NUM>, the region may be flat.

The micro-LED chips 920c and 920d arranged in the respective regions <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> may have different shapes.

A first group of micro-LED chips 920c having a first shape may be arranged in the first region <NUM>. The micro-LED chip 920c, having the first shape, of the first group will be described later with reference to <FIG>.

A second group of micro-LED chips 920d having a second shape may be arranged in the second region <NUM>. The micro-LED chip 920d, having the second shape, of the second group will be described later with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>.

A third group of micro-LED chips 920d having the second shape may be arranged in the third region <NUM>. The micro-LED chip 920d, having the second shape, of the third group will be described later with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. The micro-LED chips of the third group may be top-and-bottom symmetrical with the micro-LED chips of the second group.

As exemplarily shown in <FIG>, the array <NUM> may be bent so as to have a constant curvature value.

The array <NUM> may be bent so as to contact a virtual circle <NUM> in the overall height direction, as seen from the side. In this case, the array <NUM> may have an arc-shaped cross-section. Here, the curvature value of the array <NUM> may be a reciprocal of the radius of the virtual circle <NUM>.

The array <NUM> may be divided into the regions <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> according to positions.

The array <NUM> may be divided based on an angle range formed between a virtual line connecting a center <NUM> of the virtual circle <NUM> to the array <NUM> and a line <NUM> passing through the center <NUM> of the virtual circle <NUM> and being parallel to a horizontal plane in a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction.

Here, the clockwise direction from the line <NUM> passing through the center <NUM> of the virtual circle <NUM> and being parallel to the horizontal plane is defined as "+", and the counterclockwise direction from the line <NUM> is defined as "-".

The flexible array <NUM> may include a first region <NUM>, a second region <NUM> and a third region <NUM>.

The first region <NUM> may be a region having a first angle range. The first angle range may be a range between +<NUM> degrees and -<NUM> degrees.

The second region <NUM> may be a region having a second angle range. The second angle range may be a range between +<NUM> degrees and +<NUM> degrees.

The third region <NUM> may be a region having a third angle range. The third angle range may be a range between -<NUM> degrees and -<NUM> degrees.

Output directions of beams generated by the groups of the micro-LED chips 920c and 920d may be different.

For example, when the micro-LED chips 920c and 920d are placed on the same plane, the output directions of beams generated by the respective micro-LED chips 920c and 920d may be different.

<FIG> are reference views illustrating shapes of the micro-LED chips in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

<FIG> schematically illustrates the micro-LED chip 920c, having the first shape, of the first group shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

With reference to <FIG>, the micro-LED chip 920c, having the first shape, of the first group (hereinafter, referred to as a first micro-LED chip) may have a general shape.

The first micro-LED chip 920c may include a main body <NUM>.

The main body <NUM> may include a p-n diode layer. The p-n diode layer may include a first type semiconductor layer (for example, a p-doped layer), an active layer and a second type semiconductor layer (for example, an n-doped layer).

As seen from the side, the main body <NUM> of the first micro-LED chip 920c may have a trapezoidal shape in which a top side is longer than a bottom side. The vertical cross-section of the main body <NUM> may be bilaterally symmetrical.

As seen from the top, the main body <NUM> of the first micro-LED chip 920c may have a rectangular shape.

The first micro-LED chip 920c may output beams <NUM> upward and sideward. The first micro-LED chip <NUM> may output beams <NUM> in the upward direction and in four directions, i.e., the frontward, rearward, leftward and rightward directions.

<FIG> schematically illustrates the micro-LED chip 920d, having the second shape, of the second group shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

With reference to <FIG>, the micro-LED chip 920d, having the second shape, of the second group (hereinafter, referred to as a second micro-LED chip) may have a different shape from the first micro-LED chip 920c.

The second micro-LED chip 920d may include a main body <NUM> and a reflective layer <NUM>.

The horizontal cross-sectional area of the main body <NUM> may be gradually increased in a direction towards the reflective layer <NUM>.

The vertical cross-section of the main body <NUM> may be bilaterally asymmetrical.

A side surface <NUM> of the main body <NUM> may have a gradient in a direction <NUM> perpendicular to the reflective layer <NUM>. The side surface <NUM> of the main body <NUM> may form an acute angle with the reflective layer <NUM>.

The gradient formed by the side surface <NUM> of the main body <NUM> in the direction <NUM> perpendicular to the reflective layer <NUM> may be determined based on the second curvature value.

For example, as the second curvature value is increased, the gradient may be gradually increased.

For example, as the second curvature value is decreased, the gradient may be gradually decreased.

The reflective layer <NUM> may be located on the main body <NUM>.

The reflective layer <NUM> may reflect beams generated by the main body <NUM>. The reflective layer <NUM> may be formed of silver (Ag).

As seen from the top, the main body <NUM> of the second micro-LED chip 920d may have a rectangular shape.

The second micro-LED chip 920d may concentratedly output beams <NUM> in one direction.

For example, if the vehicle lamp <NUM> functions as the rear combination lamp 100b, the second micro-LED chip 920d may concentratedly output beams <NUM> in the rearward direction of the vehicle <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically illustrates another micro-LED chip 920d, having the second shape, of the second group shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The second micro-LED chip 920d of <FIG> may have a different shape from the second micro-LED chip 920d of <FIG>.

The horizontal cross-sectional area of the main body <NUM> may be gradually decreased in a direction towards the reflective layer <NUM>.

A side surface <NUM> of the main body <NUM> may have a gradient in a direction <NUM> perpendicular to the reflective layer <NUM>. The side surface <NUM> of the main body <NUM> may form an obtuse angle with the reflective layer <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> are reference views illustrating a plurality of groups of micro-LEDs arranged in arrays in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

As described above with reference to <FIG>, an array <NUM> may be bent so as to have a constant curvature value.

The array <NUM> may include a plurality of regions <NUM> and <NUM>.

The regions <NUM> and <NUM> may be divided from each other according to positions thereof on the array <NUM>.

For example, a first region <NUM> may be a region having an angle range of +<NUM> degrees to -<NUM> degrees, formed between a virtual line connecting a center <NUM> of a virtual circle to the array <NUM> and a line <NUM> passing through the center <NUM> of the virtual circle and being parallel to a horizontal plane, as seen from the side.

For example, second regions <NUM> may be a region having an angle range of +<NUM> degrees to +<NUM> degrees and a region having an angle range of -<NUM> degrees to -<NUM> degrees, formed between the virtual line connecting the center <NUM> of the virtual circle to the array <NUM> and the line <NUM> passing through the center <NUM> of the virtual circle and being parallel to the horizontal plane, as seen from the side.

As exemplarily shown in <FIG>, the first micro-LED chips 920c may be arranged in both first and second regions <NUM> and <NUM>.

Otherwise, as exemplarily shown in <FIG>, the first micro-LED chips 920c may be arranged in the first region <NUM> and the second micro-LED chips 902d may be arranged in the second region <NUM>.

If the vehicle lamp <NUM> functions as the rear combination lamp 100b, light concentration in the rearward direction of the vehicle <NUM> must be increased.

In a vehicle lamp <NUM> including the array <NUM> of <FIG>, the first micro-LED chips 920c are located in the second regions <NUM>, and beams are distributed in the upward and downward directions of the vehicle <NUM> and, thus, light concentration in the rearward direction is lowered.

In a vehicle lamp <NUM> including the array <NUM> of <FIG>, the second micro-LED chips 920d are located in the second regions <NUM>, beams may be concentrated in the rearward direction of the vehicle <NUM>. Further, uniformity in intensity of light is increased and color deviation is reduced.

If the vehicle lamp <NUM> functions as the head lamp 100a or the fog lamp 100c, light concentration in the forward direction of the vehicle <NUM> must be increased.

In a vehicle lamp <NUM> including the array <NUM> of <FIG>, the first micro-LED chips 920c are located in the second regions <NUM>, beams are distributed in the upward and downward directions of the vehicle <NUM> and, thus, light concentration in the forward direction is lowered.

In a vehicle lamp <NUM> including the array <NUM> of <FIG>, the second micro-LED chips 920d are located in the second regions <NUM>, beams may be concentrated in the forward direction of the vehicle <NUM>. Further, uniformity in intensity of light is increased and color deviation is reduced.

<FIG> is a view exemplarily illustrating an external appearance of a lamp for vehicles in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, the vehicle lamp <NUM> may further include a main body <NUM> and a lens <NUM>.

The main body <NUM> may extend in a first direction. The first direction may be defined as a length direction of the main body <NUM>, as denoted in <FIG>.

For example, the main body <NUM> may extend in the overall width direction. In this case, the overall width direction may be defined as the length direction of the main body <NUM> (the first direction). The overall width direction may be described as the leftward and rightward directions.

For example, the main body <NUM> may extend in the overall height direction. In this case, the overall height direction may be defined as the length direction of the main body <NUM>. The overall height direction may be described as the upward and downward directions.

The main body <NUM> may receive the light generation unit <NUM>.

The lens <NUM> may be combined with a part of the main body <NUM> under the condition that the main body <NUM> receives the light generation unit <NUM>.

The lens <NUM> may cover the light generation unit <NUM>.

The lens <NUM> may be disposed in front of or at the rear of the light generation unit <NUM>. Here, the forward direction may be defined as the forward driving direction of the vehicle <NUM>, and the rearward direction may be defined as the reversing direction of the vehicle.

For example, if the vehicle lamp <NUM> functions as the daytime running lamp 100a, the lens <NUM> may be disposed in front of the light generation unit <NUM>.

For example, if the vehicle lamp <NUM> functions as the tail lamp 100b or the brake lamp, the lens <NUM> may be disposed at the rear of the light generation unit <NUM>.

The lens <NUM> may extend in the same direction as the main body <NUM>. Using the notation above, the lens <NUM> may extend in the first direction, defined as the length direction of the lens <NUM> in <FIG>.

For example, the lens <NUM> may extend in the overall width direction. In this case, the overall width direction may be defined as the length direction of the lens <NUM> (the first direction). The overall width direction may be described as the leftward and rightward directions.

For example, the lens <NUM> may extend in the overall height direction. In this case, the overall height direction may be defined as the length direction of the lens <NUM> (the first direction). The overall height direction may be described as the upward and downward directions.

The lens <NUM> may be configured to change a path of beams generated by the light generation unit <NUM>.

The array <NUM> may be received in the main body <NUM>. For example, the lens <NUM> is combined with the main body <NUM> under the condition that the array <NUM> is received in the main body <NUM> and, thus, the array <NUM> may be sealed by the main body <NUM> and the lens <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view exemplarily illustrating an array in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, the array <NUM> may extend in the same direction as the main body <NUM> and the lens <NUM>. The array <NUM> may extend in the first direction. The first direction may be defined as the length direction of the array <NUM>.

For example, the array <NUM> may extend in the overall width direction. In this case, the overall width direction may be defined as the length direction of the array <NUM> (the first direction). The overall width direction may be defined as the leftward and rightward directions.

For example, the array <NUM> may extend in the overall height direction. In this case, the overall height direction may be defined as the length direction of the array <NUM> (the first direction). The overall height direction may be defined as the upward and downward directions.

The array <NUM> may include a plurality of groups of micro-LED chips.

The array <NUM> may include a first group of micro-LED chips 920g1 and a second group of micro-LED chips 920g2.

The first group of micro-LED chips 920g1 may be arranged in a line in the first direction at the uppermost portion of the array <NUM>.

The second group of micro-LED chips 920g2 may be arranged in a line in the first direction at the lowermost portion of the array <NUM>.

The array <NUM> may further include one or more groups of micro-LED chips in addition to the first and second groups of micro-LED chips 920g1 and 920g2.

The various groups of micro-LED chips in the array <NUM> may collectively output a collection of beams. The collection of beams output from the array <NUM> may extend from an uppermost beam to a lowermost beam. For example, the uppermost beam may be an uppermost beam generated by the first group of micro-LED chips 920g1. The lowermost beam may be a lowermost beam generated by the second group of micro-LED chips 920g2.

The array <NUM> may have a divergence angle formed by uppermost and lowermost beams that are output from the array <NUM>.

In some implementations, the divergence angle of the array <NUM> may be formed in a second direction. The second direction may be defined as a direction perpendicular to the first direction. Further, the second direction may be defined as a direction perpendicular to an optical axis of beams generated by the array <NUM>.

The divergence angle of the array <NUM> formed in the second direction may be defined by beams generated by the first group of micro-LED chips 920g1 and the second group of micro-LED chips 920g2.

Further details of the divergence example are given below in relation to <FIG> and <FIG>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle lamp in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

<FIG> schematically illustrates only the array <NUM> and the lens <NUM> in the cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp <NUM> of <FIG>, taken along a first plane <NUM>.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, the array <NUM> may output beams having a divergence angle <NUM> between uppermost and lowermost beams.

The lens <NUM> may be arranged to be inscribed within the divergence angle <NUM>. As such, beams that are output from the array <NUM> within this divergence angle <NUM> are redirected by the lens <NUM>.

In some implementations, the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may have a circular or oval shape, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. The largest such vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> (e.g., the vertical cross-section through a center part of the lens) may be inscribed within the divergence angle <NUM>, in the vertical direction, of beams output from the array <NUM>.

The divergence angle <NUM> may be defined by first beams output from the first group of micro-LED chips 920g1 and second beams output from the second group of micro-LED chips 920g2.

The first group of micro-LED chips 920g1 may be arranged in a line in the overall width direction at the uppermost portion of the array <NUM>.

The second group of micro-LED chips 920g2 may be arranged in a line in the overall width direction at the lowermost portion of the array <NUM>.

The divergence angle <NUM> may be defined as an angle <NUM> in the upward and downward directions (or in the overall height direction) formed by the uppermost portion of the first beam output range and the lowermost portion of the second beam output range.

The vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may be inscribed in the divergence angle <NUM>. For example, the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may be inscribed in a first plane <NUM> and a second plane <NUM> defined by the beams output from the array <NUM>.

The vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may contact the first plane <NUM> having an angle in the upward direction with a first optical axis <NUM> extending from the first group of micro-LED chips 920g1 so as to be perpendicular to the array <NUM>.

Beams generated by the first group of micro-LED chips 920g1 may form the first plane <NUM>.

The first plane <NUM> may be defined as a plane generated by uniting uppermost parts of beams generated by the respective micro-LED chips <NUM> of the first group of micro-LED chips 920g1.

In some implementations, the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may contact the first plane <NUM> having an angle of <NUM> to <NUM> degrees in the upward direction with the first optical axis <NUM> extending from the first group of micro-LED chips 920g1 so as to be perpendicular to the array <NUM>.

The vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may contact the second plane <NUM> having an angle b in the downward direction with a second optical axis <NUM> extending from the second group of micro-LED chips 920g2 so as to be perpendicular to the array <NUM>.

Beams generated by the second group of micro-LED chips 920g2 may form the second plane <NUM>.

The second plane <NUM> may be defined as a plane generated by uniting lowermost portions of beams generated by the respective micro-LED chips <NUM> of the second group of micro-LED chips 920g2.

In some implementations, the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may contact the second plane <NUM> having an angle of <NUM> to <NUM> degrees in the downward direction with the second optical axis <NUM> extending from the second group of micro-LED chips 920g2 so as to be perpendicular to the array <NUM>.

The lens <NUM> is inscribed in the divergence angle <NUM> and, thus, beams are uniformly output in both the overall width direction and the overall length direction. The lens <NUM> converges beams, emitted upwards and downwards, in the direction perpendicular to the array <NUM> and, thus, beams are uniformly output in both the overall width direction and the overall length direction.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle lamp in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

<FIG> schematically illustrates only the array <NUM> and the lens <NUM> in the cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp <NUM> of <FIG>, taken along the first plane <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a diameter <NUM> in the vertical direction of the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may be determined based on the width of the array <NUM> in the vertical direction.

If the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> has a circular shape, the diameter <NUM> in the vertical direction of the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may be described as a diameter of the circular vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM>.

If the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> has an oval shape, the diameter <NUM> in the vertical direction of the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may be described as a major axis or a minor axis of the oval vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM>.

For example, the diameter <NUM> in the vertical direction of the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may be <NUM> times to <NUM> times the width of the array <NUM>. Particularly, the diameter <NUM> in the vertical direction of the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may be <NUM> times to <NUM> times the length of the array <NUM> in the vertical direction.

Since the length of the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> is determined based on the length of the array <NUM> in the vertical direction, beams output from the array <NUM> are not excessively spread upwards and downwards. Therefore, beams are converged in the direction perpendicular to the array <NUM> and, thus, beams are uniformly output in both the overall width direction and the overall length direction.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp <NUM>, taken along the first plane <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the vehicle lamp <NUM> may further include an air layer <NUM>.

The air layer <NUM> may be formed between the array <NUM> and the lens <NUM>.

The air layer <NUM> may prevent scattering of beams.

The air layer <NUM> may have a thickness of <NUM> to <NUM>.

Here, the thickness may be described as a distance between the array <NUM> and the lens <NUM>.

At least one surface <NUM> of the air layer <NUM> may be formed convex toward the array <NUM>, so that one side of the air layer curves away from the array <NUM>, as shown in the example of <FIG>.

For example, due to the circular or oval cross-section of the lens <NUM>, at least one surface <NUM> of the air layer <NUM> may be convex toward the array <NUM>.

In some implementations, the main body <NUM> may have a first groove and a second groove.

The lens <NUM> may include a first protrusion <NUM> combined with the first groove and a second protrusion <NUM> combined with the second groove.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle lamp in accordance with an embodiment of the first option of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, in some implementations the lens <NUM> may have a hollow interior <NUM> formed therein.

In some scenarios, the hollow interior <NUM> formed in the lens <NUM> may improve straightness of light in the direction perpendicular to the array <NUM>.

Due to the hollow interior <NUM> formed in the lens <NUM>, the lens <NUM> may be divided into different portions arranged around the hollow interior <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the lens <NUM> may be divided into a first member <NUM> at one side of the hollow interior <NUM>, and a second member <NUM> at an opposite side of the hollow interior <NUM>.

As such, the lens <NUM> may include both the first member <NUM> and the second member <NUM>, which may function as parts of the lens <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the first member <NUM> of the lens <NUM> may be located between the array <NUM> and the hollow <NUM>.

The second member <NUM> of the lens <NUM> may be located between the hollow <NUM> and the outside of the vehicle.

The vehicle lamp <NUM> may further include a cover lens <NUM>. The cover lens <NUM> may be formed of a transparent material. The cover lens <NUM> may form an external appearance of the vehicle lamp <NUM> and protect the components of the vehicle lamp <NUM>.

The second member <NUM> may be located between the hollow <NUM> and the cover lens <NUM>.

A thickness of the second member <NUM> may be greater than a thickness of the first member <NUM>.

The thickness of the first member <NUM> may be gradually decreased in the upward direction or the downward direction from an optical axis <NUM> of the lens <NUM>.

For example, a thickness <NUM> of a first point of the first member <NUM> is bigger than a thickness <NUM> of a second point of the first member <NUM>.

The first point of the first member <NUM> may be defined as a point of the first member <NUM> intersecting the optical axis <NUM> of the lens <NUM>.

The second point of the first member <NUM> may be defined as a point of the first member <NUM> not intersecting the optical axis <NUM> of the lens <NUM>.

The thickness of the second member <NUM> may be gradually decreased in the upward direction or the downward direction from the optical axis <NUM> of the lens <NUM>.

For example, a thickness <NUM> of a first point of the second member <NUM> is bigger than a thickness <NUM> of a second point of the second member <NUM>.

The first point of the second member <NUM> may be defined as a point of the second member <NUM> intersecting the optical axis <NUM> of the lens <NUM>.

The second point of the second member <NUM> may be defined as a point of the second member <NUM> not intersecting the optical axis <NUM> of the lens <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of a lens in accordance with one embodiment of the second option of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, the vertical cross-section of the lens <NUM> may include a first shape <NUM> and a second shape <NUM>.

The first shape <NUM> may be a shape formed by a part of a first circle having a first radius.

The second shape <NUM> may be a shape formed by a part of a second circle having a second radius.

The first shape <NUM> may be located closer to the array <NUM> than the second shape <NUM>.

The first radius may be greater than the second radius.

Using a lens <NUM> having a structure with such a first shape and a second shape shown in <FIG>, a lamp <NUM> having a thinner structure may be manufactured. As such, in some scenarios, light concentration may be increased and, thus, drivers of other vehicles may more easily recognize the lamp <NUM>.

In some implementations, a maximum thickness of the second shape <NUM> may be greater than a maximum thickness of the first shape <NUM>. As such, in some implementations, even though the second shape <NUM> corresponds to a second circle having a smaller radius than a first circle corresponding to the first shape <NUM>, the larger portion of the second circle may be used to define the second shape <NUM>, as compared to the portion of the first circle that is used to define the first shape <NUM>. As such, the maximum thickness of the second shape <NUM> may be greater than the maximum thickness of the first shape <NUM>.

<FIG> are views illustrating various shapes of a vehicle lamp in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

With reference to <FIG>, a lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> may have various shapes corresponding to shapes of an array <NUM>. For example, the lens <NUM>, <NUM> of <NUM> may have a similar shape to the shape of the array <NUM>.

In some implementations, the vehicle lamp <NUM> may have a bent shape.

For example, the array <NUM> may include one or more bent parts formed in the length direction of the lamp <NUM>.

The lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> may include one or more bent parts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> formed in the length direction of the vehicle lamp <NUM>.

The bent parts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> of the lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> may be formed at a point(s) of the lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> corresponding to bent part(s) of the array <NUM>. Here, the point of the lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> corresponding to the bent part of the array <NUM> may be defined as a point of the lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> contacting a virtual extension line extending from the bent part of the array <NUM> in the driving direction of the vehicle.

For example, the array <NUM> may include one or more bent parts. In this case, the lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> may include one or more bent parts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> at a point(s) thereof corresponding to the one or more bent parts of the array <NUM>. Here, the point of the lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> corresponding to the bent part of the array <NUM> may be defined as a point of the lens <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM> contacting a virtual extension line extending from the bent part of the array <NUM> in the driving direction of the vehicle.

As such, the lens may be configured to have a shape that conforms to the shape of the array <NUM>, and that efficiently directs light from the array <NUM> to an outside of the vehicle.

The above-described invention may be implemented as computer readable code in a computer readable recording medium in which a program is recorded. Computer readable recording media include all kinds of recording devices in which data readable by computer systems is stored. The computer readable recording media include a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), a Solid State Drive (SSD), a Silicon Disk Drive (SDD), a ROM, a RAM, a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a floppy disk, an optical data storage system, etc. Further, the computer readable recording media may be realized as a carrier wave (for example, transmission over the Internet). Here, a computer may include a processor or a controller.

As apparent from the above description, a vehicle lamp in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention has at least one of effects described below.

First, the vehicle lamp includes a plurality of micro-LEDs, thus securing required intensity of light.

Second, the vehicle lamp outputs beams having high uniformity due to a lens having a circular or oval vertical-cross section, which is inscribed in a divergence angle of output light in the vertical direction.

Third, the vehicle lamp allows drivers of other vehicles to recognize output light thereof, thus minimizing glare.

Claim 1:
A lamp (<NUM>) for a vehicle (<NUM>), the lamp (<NUM>) comprising:
a light generation unit (<NUM>) comprising an array (<NUM>) provided with a plurality of micro-light emitting diode, micro-LED, chips (<NUM>) arranged therein; and
a single lens (<NUM>) configured to redirect light beams generated by the light generation unit (<NUM>),
wherein the light generation unit (<NUM>) is configured to output a plurality of beams having a divergence angle defined in a vertical direction, and
wherein the array (<NUM>) comprising the plurality of micro-LED chips (<NUM>) comprises:
- a first group of micro-LED chips (920g1) arranged at an uppermost portion of the array (<NUM>) and configured to output first beams; and
- a second group of micro-LED chips (920g2) arranged at a lowermost portion of the array (<NUM>) and configured to output second beams, and
wherein the divergence angle is defined between the first beams output from the first group of micro-LED chips (920g1) and the second beams output from the second group of micro-LED chips (920g2),
characterized in that the lens (<NUM>) is arranged to have a largest vertical cross-section thereof inscribed in the divergence angle of the beams that are output from the light generation unit (<NUM>), and in that
the lens (<NUM>) is configured to have a hollow interior formed therein, or wherein the lens (<NUM>) is configured to have the largest vertical cross-section that comprises:
a first cross-sectional portion has a first shape (<NUM>) formed by a part of a first circle having a first radius; and
a second cross-sectional portion that is adjacent to the first cross-sectional portion and that has the shape of a second part (<NUM>) formed by a part of a second circle having a second radius.