Automatic headlight beam throw adjustment

The automatic headlight beam throw adjustment thus ensures that oncoming traffic is not dazzled. The automatic headlight beam throw adjustment is supported by two ride height sensors. Automatic headlight beam throw adjustment is legally mandated for bi-xenon headlights.

The automatic headlight beam throw adjustment also includes:

• Dynamic headlight beam throw adjustment
• Adaptive headlight beam throw adjustment

The dynamic headlight beam throw adjustment was developed for compensating pitching movements that occur as a result of braking and acceleration.

Adaptive headlight beam throw adjustment uses driving condition signals to identify driving over rises or dips. The headlights are turned appropriately. The automatic headlight beam throw adjustment thus ensures that oncoming traffic is not dazzled.

The automatic headlight beam throw adjustment is supported by 2 ride height sensors. one ride height sensor each located on the front axle and the rear axle of the vehicle. Data from ride height sensors are evaluated directly by the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM). The footwell module (FRM) receives signals from the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) through the K-CAN2. Within the central gateway module (ZGM) the FlexRay transfers the signal to the K-CAN2.

The following graphic shows the light cone's primary motion patterns during operation of the automatic headlight beam throw adjustment.

Fig 1: Adjusting Automatic Headlight Beam Throw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The headlight is increased while driving through a dip. The driving area visibility is enhanced without blinding oncoming traffic. Roadway obstacles are recognized earlier than with previous headlight systems. This makes it possible to react to obstacles early and initiate evasive maneuvers as required.

The following illustration shows vehicle driving through a dip.

Fig 2: Adjusting Adaptive Headlight Beam Throw (Driving Through Dips And Over Crests)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The headlight beam throw is lowered when driving over a rise. The driver of an approaching vehicle is subjected to less glare than with the headlight systems used up to now.

The following illustration shows vehicle driving over a hump.

Fig 3: Adjusting Adaptive Headlight Beam Throw (Vehicle Passes Over Crest)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.