Development of the guide 'Autronic Eye'

A multiplier phototube is the sensor used in the automatic headlamp-control device called Autronic Eye. Possibilities for solving the headlight glare problem indicated the following desirable characteristics of an automatic headlamp control device: (1) switch to the lower beam promptly when subjected to sufficient light and switch back to the upper beam promptly when light is removed, (2) retain the lower beam when the approaching driver dims, (3) dim for cars on curves and not dim excessively for extraneous light at the roadside, (4) not be affected by variations in the reflectivity of road surfaces, (5) function under conditions of adverse weather, such as rain, snow, and fog, (6) provide the driver with a means of obtaining a lower beam for use in the city and when following another car, when there is insufficient light to retain the lower beam automatically, (7) provide the driver with a means of obtaining an upper beam for signaling and at dusk, (8) function with normal variations of car loading, (9) provide the lower beam during warm-up, (10) not be impaired when operated in the daytime, (11) be insensitive to changes in battery boltage, (12) use a minimum of current to avoid exceeding the generator capacity, (13) withstand the abuses of automotive service which includes heat, cold, vibration, and moisture, and (14) be easily adjustable in the field. The autronic eye complies with all of these requirements and experience during the first year of production demonstrates that it offers real possibilities for improving the glare problem. Control; Glare; Headlamps; High beamed headlamps; Low beamed headlamps; Weather