Osram high-power LEDs for adaptive front lighting systems

Oslon Compact LEDs for the intelligent headlights on the new CLS Class

The headlights on the new Mercedes Benz CLS are equipped with Oslon Compact light-emitting diodes from Osram Opto Semiconductors. These extremely compact high-power LEDs can be arranged very close together in the headlight so that adaptive front lighting systems can be achieved. In addition to this current project, Osram and Daimler are working together to develop future innovative automotive lighting systems – as partners in the µAFS research project sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

For the new CLS headlights the car manufacturer uses an adaptive front lighting system (AFS) to provide greater visibility in every situation and therefore offer road users better protection from accidents. The light sources are Oslon Compact light-emitting diodes from Osram Opto Semiconductors; each module in the headlight is equipped with 24 LEDs. Thanks to UX:3 chip technology the LEDs achieve high luminous efficacy even at high currents. With package dimensions of 1.6 mm x 1.2 mm they are extremely compact so they can be arranged close to one another in the headlight with a high degree of flexibility. These light-emitting diodes therefore provide the basis for both AFS and light guide solutions.

Camera and controllers help to achieve the best distribution of light

To achieve ideal distribution of light with the Osram LEDs the car manufacturer uses a camera mounted on the windshield to cover the area in front of the vehicle. Four controllers in the vehicle perform calculations 100 times per second to determine the best lighting for the driver. LED-based adaptive lighting systems enable the road ahead to be automatically illuminated with exceptionally bright light and with precisely controlled distribution without dazzling other road users.

Successful cooperation for automotive lighting of the future

As pioneers in their respective industries, Daimler AG and Osram Opto Semiconductors are also cooperating on research projects. In the µAFS project sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) they are working with other partners on possible automotive lighting of the future. The aim of the project is to develop the technical principles for a new class of energy-efficient LED headlamps which may then provide the basis for adaptive front lighting systems. “In October 2014 we were able to reach the first major milestone when we presented a new type of LED chip with no less than 256 pixels. We are proud of this and looking forward to the continued success of the project together with Daimler and the other partners”, said Stefan Grötsch, Project Coordinator at Osram Opto Semiconductors.

Here you can find more information on the Osram Oslon Compact family.