Optimization of diffractive optical elements for automotive adaptive front-lighting systems: compliance with ECE-R123

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Automotive Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Conventional automotive headlamps face challenges including bulkiness, complex assembly, and mechanical fragility.
• Adaptive Front-lighting Systems (AFS) require advanced optical solutions for improved road illumination and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement an AFS using diffractive optical elements (DOEs).
• To optimize DOE parameters for ECE-R123 compliance, high optical performance, and compactness.
• To evaluate DOEs as a replacement for traditional complex lens systems in automotive lighting.

Main Methods:

• Simulations using VirtualLab Fusion (VLF) to optimize DOE pixel dimensions, diffraction efficiency, and phase distribution.
• Fabrication of DOEs with precise control over key parameters.
• Structural evaluation using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Optical performance assessment using a high-precision goniophotometer.

Main Results:

• Optimized DOEs achieved compliance with ECE-R123 standards, meeting key measurement points (B50L, 75R).
• Experimental results confirmed accurate cut-off lines and uniform illumination distributions.
• Demonstrated high optical performance and compactness of the DOE-based system.

Conclusions:

• Diffractive optical elements offer a viable, lightweight, and flexible alternative to conventional automotive headlamp systems.
• The developed DOE-based AFS provides a scalable and efficient solution for enhanced driving safety and adaptability.
• This technology advances automotive lighting by enabling planar architectures and simplified designs.