Complex Shape Headlamps:Eight Years of Experience 970901

Until the late 1980s, the technology used in automotive lighting was relatively limited. Designers had little styling freedom as the main prerequisite of car makers was to reduce the size and increase the performance of lighting systems. VALEO invented SC (complex surface) technology to improve luminous efficiency. The first cars equipped with SC were the EAGLE PREMIER in the United States the CITROEN XM in Europe.

SC2 followed. SC2 incorporates reflector technology that controls both the vertical and horizontal deviation of the light and increases styling freedom especially for fog lamps.

The latest in the line of high performance lamps, SC3, was developed to optimize beam patterns in order to meet statutory requirements whatever bulb is used. Because SC3 uses a clear lens with an optical reflector, styling can be much more original and the angle of the lens can be increased to 60°. This technology is currently being made available to all VALEO customers worldwide in the form of SC3 clear lens high performance headlamps.

The photometrical performance of these new technologies requires higher precision and quality in the shape of the reflector. This is achieved by new processes developed with computer-assisted design and digitally controlled tools associated with dependable quality assurance facilities.

Since the beginning of the 1990s the higher performance and styling advantages of SC headlamps have resulted in their being used in more than 30% of new programs worldwide. VALEO's continuous growth is based on technological leadership in product innovation and manufacturing processes. The high performance of SC and HID lamps with clear lenses and automatic dynamic leveling systems form an integral part of VALEO's technological development.