JP6968686B2 - Vehicle lighting - Google Patents

Description

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention forms a luminous intensity distribution suitable for a low-beam light distribution pattern (luminous intensity distribution in the vicinity of the front edge of the lower reflecting surface is relatively high) in a front end opening of a vehicle lamp, particularly a tubular reflective surface. Regarding vehicle lighting fixtures that can be.

Conventionally, in the field of vehicle lighting equipment, a tubular reflective surface having a front end opening larger than the rear end opening and narrowing in a pyramidal shape (square pyramid shape) from the front end opening toward the rear end opening, and vertically and horizontally. A tubular reflective surface composed of an upper reflective surface, a lower reflective surface, a left reflective surface and a right reflective surface, a projection lens arranged facing the front end opening of the tubular reflective surface, and a tubular reflection. A light source arranged to face the rear end opening of the surface is provided, and the light intensity distribution formed in the front end opening of the tubular reflecting surface by the direct light from the light source and the reflected light from the tubular reflecting surface is projected by the projection lens. A vehicle lighting fixture configured to form a low-beam light distribution pattern by reverse-projecting forward has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1 (FIG. 1 and the like)).

Japanese Patent No. 5442463

However, in the vehicle lighting equipment described in Patent Document 1, since the cross-sectional shape of the lower reflecting surface due to the vertical surface parallel to the optical axis is a parabola, a uniform luminous intensity distribution is formed in the front end opening of the tubular reflecting surface. Therefore, there is a problem that it is not possible to form a luminous intensity distribution suitable for a low beam light distribution pattern (a luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity near the front edge of the lower reflecting surface is relatively high).

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and the luminous intensity distribution suitable for the low beam light distribution pattern in the front end opening of the tubular reflecting surface (luminous intensity near the front end edge of the lower reflecting surface is relatively high). It is an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle lighting fixture capable of forming a distribution).

In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention is provided with a projection lens, behind the projection lens and above the optical axis of the projection lens, and is irradiated forward through the projection lens. In a vehicle lamp equipped with a first optical system that irradiates light forming a low beam light distribution pattern, the first optical system has a front end opening larger than the rear end opening and as the front end opening toward the rear end opening. A tubular reflective surface that narrows in a pyramidal shape, and is composed of an upper reflective surface, a lower reflective surface, a left reflective surface, and a right reflective surface provided on the upper, lower, left, and right sides, and the rear end opening. The projection lens is provided with a first light source facing the lower surface, and the focal point of the projection lens is located near the front end edge of the lower reflection surface, and the front end edge of the lower reflection surface is the light distribution pattern for the low beam. The lower reflection surface is configured to have a shape corresponding to a cut-off line, and the lower reflection surface is a rotational elliptical reflection surface in which the first focus is located near the first light source and the second focus is located near the focal point of the projection lens. It is characterized by.

According to this aspect, a luminous intensity distribution suitable for a low beam light distribution pattern (luminous intensity distribution in the vicinity of the front edge of the lower reflecting surface) can be formed in the front end opening of the tubular reflecting surface.

This is because the light from the first light source reflected by the lower reflecting surface is focused in the vicinity of the second focal point (near the front edge of the lower reflecting surface).

Further, in the above invention, in a preferred embodiment, the lower reflecting surface includes a first lower reflecting surface arranged near the first light source and a second lower reflecting surface arranged far from the first light source. The first lower reflection surface is a rotating elliptical reflection surface in which the first focus is located in the vicinity of the first light source and the second focus is located in the vicinity of the focal point of the projection lens. Is an inclined reflecting surface extending diagonally forward and downward from the front end of the first lower reflecting surface.

According to this aspect, a luminous intensity distribution suitable for a low beam light distribution pattern (luminous intensity distribution in the vicinity of the front edge of the lower reflecting surface) can be formed in the front end opening of the tubular reflecting surface.

This is because, firstly, the light from the first light source reflected by the first lower reflection surface is focused near the second focal point (near the front edge of the lower reflection surface), and secondly, the second lower part. This is because the light from the first light source reflected by the reflecting surface passes near the second focal point (near the front edge of the lower reflecting surface).

Further, in the above invention, a preferred embodiment is that the upper reflecting surface is a reflecting surface having a shape in which a cross section due to a vertical surface parallel to the optical axis is curved downward in a convex shape, and is close to the first light source. The first upper reflecting surface includes a first upper reflecting surface arranged in the first light source and a second upper reflecting surface arranged far from the first light source, and the first upper reflecting surface is reflected by the first upper reflecting surface. The surface shape is adjusted so that the light from the first light source is reflected by the lower reflecting surface and passes near the second focal point, and the second upper reflecting surface is reflected by the second upper reflecting surface. The light from the first light source is diffused in the vertical direction, and the light intensity distribution formed in the front end opening gradually decreases from the vicinity of the front end edge of the lower reflective surface toward the upper side. It is characterized in that its surface shape is adjusted so as to have a light intensity distribution.

According to this aspect, a luminous intensity distribution suitable for a low beam light distribution pattern (luminous intensity distribution in the vicinity of the front edge of the lower reflecting surface) can be formed in the front end opening of the tubular reflecting surface.

This is because, firstly, the light from the first light source reflected by the first lower reflection surface is focused near the second focal point (near the front edge of the lower reflection surface), and secondly, the second lower part. The light from the first light source reflected by the reflecting surface passes near the second focal point (near the front edge of the lower reflecting surface), and thirdly, it is reflected by the first upper reflecting surface and the lower reflecting surface in this order. This is because the light from the first light source passes near the second focal point (near the front edge of the lower reflecting surface).

Further, according to this aspect, the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening of the tubular reflecting surface may be a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the front end edge of the lower reflecting surface toward the upper side. can.

This is because the light from the first light source reflected by the second upper reflecting surface is diffused in the vertical direction, and the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening gradually increases from the vicinity of the front end edge of the lower reflecting surface toward the upper side. This is because the surface shape of the second upper reflecting surface is adjusted so as to have a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity is low.

Further, in the above invention, a preferred embodiment is that the left reflecting surface is a reflecting surface having a shape in which a cross section formed by a horizontal plane is curved convexly toward the right side, and is a first left reflecting surface arranged near the first light source. And a second left reflecting surface arranged far from the first light source, and the first left reflecting surface is such that the light from the first light source reflected by the first left reflecting surface is the same. The surface shape of the low beam light distribution pattern is adjusted so as to illuminate the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction, and the second left reflecting surface is the light from the first light source reflected by the second left reflecting surface. Is diffused in the left-right direction, and the surface shape of the low-beam light distribution pattern is adjusted so that the light distribution pattern has a gradation-like light intensity distribution in which the light intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction toward the right side. The right reflecting surface is a reflecting surface having a shape in which the cross section of the horizontal plane is curved convexly toward the left side, and is arranged near the first right light source and far from the first light source. In the first right reflecting surface, the light from the first light source reflected by the first right reflecting surface is centered in the left-right direction of the low beam light distribution pattern. The surface shape is adjusted so as to illuminate the vicinity, and the light from the first light source reflected by the second right reflecting surface is diffused in the left-right direction on the second right reflecting surface, and the low beam is emitted. The surface shape of the light distribution pattern is adjusted so that the light distribution pattern has a gradation-like light intensity distribution in which the light intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction toward the left side.

According to this aspect, the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening of the tubular reflective surface has a relatively high luminous intensity near the center in the left-right direction, and the luminous intensity gradually increases from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction toward both the left and right sides. It can be a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which is low.

Further, in the above invention, a preferred embodiment is light provided behind the projection lens and below the optical axis of the projection lens, transmitted through the projection lens and irradiated forward to form a high beam light distribution pattern. The second optical system is further provided with a second optical system that is arranged to emit light downward, and a reflective surface that reflects light from the second light source. The first focal point is located near the second light source, the second focal point is located near the focal point of the projection lens, and the cylindrical reflecting surface is provided from the front edge of the lower reflecting surface. It is characterized by having a downward reflecting surface extending diagonally backward and downward, and the cross-sectional shape of the downward reflecting surface due to a vertical surface parallel to the optical axis is curved downward in a convex shape. ..

According to this aspect, it is possible to provide a vehicle lamp capable of forming a light distribution pattern for a high beam having a large thickness in the vertical direction.

This is because the cross-sectional shape of the downward reflecting surface due to the vertical surface (and the plane parallel to it) including the optical axis is not a plane but is curved downward in a convex shape.

It is a perspective view of the lamp unit 10 for a vehicle. It is a vertical sectional view of the lamp unit 10 for a vehicle. It is an exploded perspective view of the lamp unit 10 for a vehicle. It is a front view of the tubular reflective surface 21. It is a figure which shows the arrangement example of the 2nd light source 32. (A) A perspective view of the spheroidal reflecting surface 33, and (b) a top view. It is a bottom view of the tubular reflective surface 21. (A) Top view for explaining the relationship between the light source images I _32R1 and I _32R2 of the plurality of light sources 32R ₁ and 32R ₂ on the right side and the front end edge 21b1 of the reflective surface 21b provided below, (b) left side. Top view for explaining the relationship between the light source images I _32L1 and I _{32L2 of the} plurality of light sources 32L ₁ and 32L ₂ and the front end edge 21b1 of the reflecting surface 21b provided below, (c) Light sources 32L ₂ and 32R ₂ . It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the relationship between the light source images I _32L2 , I _32R2 and the front end edge 21b1 of the reflection surface 21b provided below. It is an optical path diagram of the light from the 2nd light source 32. (A) Examples of the high-beam light distribution pattern P _Hi, an example of (b) high beam distribution pattern (Comparative Example). It is a vertical sectional view of a tubular reflective surface 21. (A) An optical path diagram of light from the first light source 22 reflected by the lower reflection surface 21b, and (b) an optical path diagram of light from the first light source 22 reflected by the upper reflection surface 21a and the lower reflection surface 21b. .. (A) An example of the luminous intensity distribution of the BB cross section in FIG. 13 (b), (b) an example of the low beam light distribution pattern P _Lo , and (c) the luminous intensity distribution of the AA cross section in FIG. 13 (b). This is an example.

Hereinafter, the vehicle lamp unit 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. Corresponding components in each figure are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate description is omitted.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle lamp unit 10.

The vehicle lighting unit 10 shown in FIG. 1 is a vehicle headlamp, and is mounted on, for example, a front end of a vehicle such as a motorcycle (not shown) or an automobile. Although not shown, the vehicle lighting unit 10 is arranged in a lighting chamber composed of an outer lens and a housing, and is attached to the housing or the like.

FIG. 2 is a vertical sectional view of the vehicle lamp unit 10. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the vehicle lamp unit 10.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the vehicle lighting unit 10 of the present embodiment is provided with the projection lens 23, behind the projection lens 23 and above the optical axis AX of the projection lens 23, and transmits the projection lens 23. A first optical system 20 that irradiates light that is irradiated forward to form a light distribution pattern for a low beam, and a projection lens 23 that is provided behind the projection lens 23 and below the optical axis AX of the projection lens 23. It includes a second optical system 30 that irradiates light that is transmitted and radiated forward to form a light distribution pattern for a high beam.

The first optical system 20 includes a tubular reflecting surface 21 and a first light source 22. The first optical system 20 together with the projection lens 23 constitutes a direct projection type (also referred to as a direct irradiation type) optical system. The tubular reflecting surface 21 and the first light source 22 are arranged above the optical axis AX extending in the front-rear direction of the vehicle.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the tubular reflective surface 21. FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the tubular reflective surface 21.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 11, the tubular reflective surface 21 has a front end opening A1 that is larger than the rear end opening A2 and narrows in a pyramidal shape (square pyramid shape) from the front end opening A1 toward the rear end opening A2. It is a tubular reflecting surface, and is composed of an upper reflecting surface 21a, a lower reflecting surface 21b, a left reflecting surface 21c, and a right reflecting surface 21d, which are provided on the upper, lower, left, and right sides, respectively.

The front end edge 21b1 (edge portion) of the lower reflecting surface 21b is configured to have a shape corresponding to the cut-off line of the low beam light distribution pattern.

In the tubular reflecting surface 21, the rear end opening A2 and the first light source 22 (light emitting surface) face each other so that the light from the first light source 22 (light emitting surface) passes through the inside of the tubular reflecting surface 21. It is held by the holding member 40 (see FIG. 2). The rear end opening A2 of the tubular reflective surface 21 surrounds the first light source 22 (light emitting surface) in front view (not shown). The holding member 40 is, for example, a heat sink having radiating fins 41 (see FIG. 1).

[Lower reflective surface 21b]
As shown in FIG. 11, the lower reflecting surface 21b is a reflecting surface having a shape in which the cross section due to the vertical plane parallel to the optical axis AX is curved upward in a concave shape.

In the lower reflection surface 21b, the first focal point F1 _21b2 is located near the first light source 22 (for example, the center of the light emitting surface), and the second focal point F2 _21b2 is located near the focal point F _{23 of the projection lens 23.} It is a face.

Specifically, the lower reflecting surface 21b includes a first lower reflecting surface 21b2 arranged near the first light source 22 and a second lower reflecting surface 21b3 arranged far from the first light source 22.

The first lower reflection surface 21b2 is a rotary ellipse in which the first focal point F1 _21b2 is located near the first light source 22 (for example, the center of the light emitting surface) and the second focal point F2 _21b2 is located near the focal point F _{23 of the projection lens 23.} It is a reflective surface. As a result, the light Ray1 (see FIG. 12A) reflected by the first lower reflecting surface 21b2 from the first light source 22 is _collected near the second focal point F2 21b2 (near the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b). It glows.

The second lower reflecting surface 21b3 is an inclined reflecting surface extending diagonally forward and downward from the front end of the first lower reflecting surface 21b2 to the front end opening A1. As a result, the light Ray2 (see FIG. 12A) reflected by the second lower reflecting surface 21b3 from the first light source 22 passes near the second focal point F2 21b2 (near the front end edge _{22b1 of the lower reflecting surface 22b).} do. This is because the light Ray2 from the first light source 22 is incident on the second lower reflection surface 21b3 at a relatively shallow angle and is reflected at a relatively shallow angle. The second lower reflecting surface 21b3 may be omitted.

[Upper reflective surface 21a]
As shown in FIG. 11, the upper reflecting surface 21a is a reflecting surface having a shape in which a cross section due to a vertical surface parallel to the optical axis AX is curved downward in a convex shape, and is arranged near the first light source 22. It includes a first upper reflecting surface 21a1 and a second upper reflecting surface 21a2 arranged far from the first light source 22.

In the first upper reflecting surface 21a1, the light Ray3 (see FIG. 12B) reflected by the first upper reflecting surface 21a1 from the first light source 22 is reflected by the lower reflecting surface 21b and is near _{the second focal point F2 21b2.} The surface shape is adjusted so that it passes through.

The second upper reflecting surface 21a2 is formed in the front end opening A1 by diffusing the lights Ray4 and Ray5 (see FIG. 12B) from the first light source 22 reflected by the second upper reflecting surface 21a2 in the vertical direction. The surface shape is adjusted so that the luminous intensity distribution to be formed becomes a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b toward the upper side.

[Left reflective surface 21c]
Hereinafter, the left means the left when facing the front of the vehicle. The left reflecting surface 21c is a reflecting surface having a shape in which the cross section of the horizontal plane is curved convexly toward the right side, and as shown in FIG. 4, the left reflecting surface 21c1 and the first left reflecting surface 21c1 arranged close to the first light source 22. Includes a second left reflective surface 21c2 located far from the first light source 22.

The surface shape of the first left reflecting surface 21c1 is adjusted so that the light from the first light source 22 reflected by the first left reflecting surface 21c1 illuminates the vicinity of the center of the low beam light distribution pattern in the left-right direction. ing.

In the second left reflecting surface 21c2, the light from the first light source 22 reflected by the second left reflecting surface 21c2 is diffused in the left-right direction, and the low beam light distribution pattern moves from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction to the right side. The surface shape is adjusted so as to have a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases.

[Right reflective surface 21d]
Hereinafter, the right means the right toward the front of the vehicle. The right reflecting surface 21d is configured symmetrically with the left reflecting surface 21c.

That is, the right reflecting surface 21d is a reflecting surface having a shape in which the cross section of the horizontal plane is curved convexly toward the left side, and as shown in FIG. 4, the first right reflecting surface 21d1 arranged near the first light source 22. And a second right reflecting surface 21d2 arranged far from the first light source 22.

The surface shape of the first right reflecting surface 21d1 is adjusted so that the light from the first light source 22 reflected by the first right reflecting surface 21d1 illuminates the vicinity of the center of the low beam light distribution pattern in the left-right direction. ing.

In the second right reflecting surface 21d2, the light from the first light source 22 reflected by the second right reflecting surface 21d2 is diffused in the left-right direction, and the low beam light distribution pattern moves from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction to the left side. The surface shape is adjusted so as to have a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases.

The tubular reflective surface 21 is formed by, for example, screwing screws (not shown) inserted into screw holes N1 and N2 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) provided on both the left and right sides to the holding member 40. It is held at 40.

The first light source 22 is a semiconductor light emitting element such as an LED or LD having a rectangular (for example, 1 mm square) light emitting surface. The first light source 22 is mounted on the substrate K1 with the light emitting surface facing forward (front). The number of the first light sources 22 is not particularly limited and may be one or a plurality. In the case of a plurality of first light sources 22, the first light sources 22 are arranged in a row in the horizontal direction. The substrate K1 is held by the holding member 40 by screwing or the like.

The projection lens 23 has a tubular reflection with the back surface 23b of the projection lens 23 so that direct light from the first light source 22 (light emitting surface) that has passed through the tubular reflection surface 21 and reflected light from the tubular reflection surface 21 are transmitted. The surface 21 is held by the holding member 40 in a state of facing the front end opening A1 (see FIG. 2).

As shown in FIG. 2, the projection lens 23 is held by the holding member 40, for example, by screwing the lens holder 50 that holds the projection lens 23 to the holding member 40.

The focal point F ₂₃ of the projection lens 23 is located near the front edge 21b1 (horizontal center) of the lower reflection surface 21b (see FIGS. 2 and 4).

FIG. 12A is an optical path diagram of light from the first light source 22 reflected by the lower reflection surface 21b, and FIG. 12B is an optical path diagram from the first light source 22 reflected by the upper reflection surface 21a and the lower reflection surface 21b. It is an optical path diagram of light.

In the first optical system 20 having the above configuration, when the first light source 22 is turned on, the direct light from the first light source 22 and the upper reflecting surface 21a, the lower reflecting surface 21b, the left reflecting surface 21c, and the right reflecting surface 21d, respectively. The reflected light forms a light intensity distribution suitable for the low beam light distribution pattern (a light intensity distribution in the vicinity of the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflective surface 21b) in the front end opening A1 of the tubular reflecting surface 21.

First, the light Ray1 from the first light source 22 reflected by the first lower reflection surface 21b2 (see FIG. 12A) is in the _{vicinity of the second focal point F2 21b2} (the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflection surface 21b). Focusing on (nearby), secondly, the light Ray2 (see FIG. 12A) from the first light source 22 reflected by the second lower reflecting surface 21b3 is _{near the second focal point F2 21b2} (lower reflecting surface). Passing through the front edge 22b1 of 22b), thirdly, the light Ray3 (see FIG. 12A) from the first light source 22 reflected in this order by the first upper reflecting surface 21a1 and the lower reflecting surface 21b. This is due to passing through the vicinity of the second focal point F2 _21b2 (near the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflection surface 21b).

The luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening A1 of the tubular reflecting surface 21 is a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b toward the upper side.

This is because the light Ray4 and Ray5 (see FIG. 12B) from the first light source 22 reflected by the second upper reflecting surface 21a are diffused in the vertical direction, and the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening A1 is determined. This is because the surface shape of the second upper reflecting surface 21a is adjusted so as to have a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b toward the upper side.

As described above, the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening A1 of the tubular reflecting surface 21 is inverted and projected forward by the projection lens 23. As a result, a low beam light distribution pattern is formed. FIG. 13B is an example of the low beam light distribution pattern P _Lo. In FIG. 13 (b), an example of directly facing the virtual vertical screen low-beam distribution pattern P _Lo formed on (located about 25m forward from the vehicle front) is shown in front of the vehicle. The low beam light distribution pattern P _Lo includes a cut-off line CL defined by the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b at the upper end edge. FIG. 13 (c) is an example of the luminosity distribution of the AA cross section in FIG. 13 (b). FIG. 13 (a) is an example of the luminosity distribution of the BB cross section in FIG. 13 (b).

As shown in FIG. 13 (c), the low beam light distribution pattern P _Lo has a relatively high luminous intensity near the upper end edge (cut-off line CL) in the vertical direction, and gradually decreases from the vicinity of the upper end edge toward the bottom. It becomes a light distribution pattern of a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity becomes low.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13A, the low beam light distribution pattern P _Lo has a relatively high luminous intensity near the center in the left-right direction in the horizontal direction, and goes from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction to both the left and right sides. It becomes a light distribution pattern of a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases.

This is because the surface shapes of the left reflecting surface 21c and the right reflecting surface 21d are adjusted as described above.

As shown in FIG. 2, the second optical system 30 includes a second light source 32, a spheroidal reflecting surface 33, and a downward reflecting surface 34. The second optical system 30 together with the projection lens 23 constitutes a projector-type optical system. The second light source 32, the spheroidal reflecting surface 33, and the downward reflecting surface 34 are arranged below the optical axis AX extending in the front-rear direction of the vehicle.

The second light source 32 is a semiconductor light emitting element such as an LED or LD having a rectangular (for example, 1 mm square) light emitting surface. The second light source 32 is mounted on the substrate K2 with the light emitting surface facing downward.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an arrangement example of the second light source 32.

_{As shown in FIG. 5, the second light source 32 includes a plurality of light sources 32L 1} and 32L ₂ arranged on the left side (the left side when facing the front of the vehicle; the same applies hereinafter) with respect to the vertical plane including the optical axis AX, and light. _{It includes a plurality of light sources 32R 1} and 32R ₂ arranged on the right side (the right side toward the front of the vehicle; the same applies hereinafter) with respect to the vertical plane including the axis AX. Hereinafter, when the light sources 32L ₁ , 32L ₂ , 32R ₁ , and 32R ₂ are not particularly distinguished, they are referred to as a light source 32 (or a light source 32L, 32R).

_{The two light sources 32L 1} and 32L ₂ on the left side are arranged horizontally and perpendicular to the optical axis AX at predetermined intervals. Similarly, the two light sources 32R ₁ and 32R ₂ on the right side are arranged horizontally and at predetermined intervals in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis AX. The number of the second light sources 32 is not particularly limited, and may be 1 or 3 or more.

6 (a) is a perspective view of the spheroidal reflecting surface 33, and FIG. 6 (b) is a top view.

As shown in FIG. 6, the spheroidal reflecting surface 33 (the reflecting surface based on the spheroidal surface) includes the spheroidal reflecting surface 33L arranged on the left side with respect to the vertical plane including the optical axis AX and the optical axis AX. Includes a spheroidal reflective surface 33R, which is located to the right of the vertical plane, including.

_{The first focal point F1 33L} of the rotating elliptical reflecting surface 33L on the _{left side is the vicinity of the light source 32L 2} closest to the optical axis AX among the plurality of light sources 32L ₁ and 32L _{2 on} the left side (for example, relative to the light emitting surface of the light _{source 32L 2).} located in a high center) luminance (see FIG. 5), and the second focal point _{F2 33L} is positioned near the focal point _{F 23} of the projection lens 23 (see FIGS. 2 and 4).

Similarly, the first focal point _{F1 33R} of the right ellipsoidal reflecting surface 33R, the light source 32R ₂ vicinity closest to the optical axis AX of the right of a plurality of light sources _32R 1, 32R ₂ (e.g., the light emitting surface of the light source 32R ₂ among relatively luminance it is positioned in a higher center) (see FIG. 5), and the second focal point _{F2 33R} is positioned near the focal point _{F 23} of the projection lens 23 (see FIGS. 2 and 4).

_{By locating the first focal points F1 33L} and F1 _33R and the second focal points F2 _33L and F2 _33R of the spheroidal reflecting surfaces 33L and 33R in this way, the central luminous intensity is relatively high and the central luminous intensity is relatively high, as described later. It is possible to form a wide high beam light distribution pattern in the left-right direction.

The distance between the first focal point F1 _33L and the first focal point F1 _33R is preferably 0.3 to 0.5 times the diameter of the projection lens 23. If it is smaller than 0.3 times, the effect of using the two spheroidal reflecting surfaces 33L and 33R is small, that is, the maximum luminous intensity cannot be secured. On the other hand, if it is larger than 0.5 times, the axes (rotational axes) of the rotating elliptical reflecting surfaces 33L and 33R have an angle (the angle becomes larger) with respect to the optical axis AX of the projection lens 23, so that the light enters the projection lens 23. The amount of is reduced. That is, the luminous flux utilization rate decreases. Therefore, in order to secure the maximum luminous intensity and not reduce the luminous flux utilization rate, it _{is desirable that the distance between the first focal point F1 33L} and the first focal point F1 _33R is 0.3 to 0.5 times the diameter of the projection lens 23.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9, since more light from the light source 32L on the left side is incident on the spheroidal reflection surface 33L on the left side (because it is hardly incident on the spheroidal reflection surface 33R on the right side), the light utilization efficiency is improved. do. Similarly, since more light from the light source 32R on the right side is incident on the spheroidal reflection surface 33R on the right side (because it is hardly incident on the spheroidal reflection surface 33L on the left side), the light utilization efficiency is improved.

The spheroidal reflective surface 33 is held by the holding member 40 by screwing a screw (not shown) inserted into the screw holes N3 and N4 (see FIG. 6) to the holding member 40.

As shown in FIG. 2, the downward reflecting surface 34 _{extends from the vicinity of the focal point F 23} of the projection lens 23 toward the rear diagonally downward direction. Specifically, the downward reflecting surface 34 extends diagonally backward and downward from the front end edge 21b1 of the reflecting surface 21b provided below. FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the tubular reflective surface 21. As shown in FIGS. 2, 4, and 7, the downward reflecting surface 34 is provided on the tubular reflecting surface 21. The angle of the downward reflecting surface 34 with respect to the optical axis AX ensures, for example, maximal luminous intensity and does not reduce the luminous flux utilization rate (more reflected light from the rotating elliptical reflecting surface 33 is incident on the projection lens 23). Angle is desirable.

The cross-sectional shape of the downward reflecting surface 34 due to the vertical surface (and the plane parallel to the optical axis AX) including the optical axis AX is curved downward in a convex shape as shown in FIG. 8 (c). As a result, as will be described later, it is possible to form a high beam light distribution pattern having a large thickness in the vertical direction.

FIG. 9 is an optical path diagram of the light from the second light source 32.

In the second optical system 30 having the above configuration, when the second light source 32 is turned on, as shown in FIG. 9, the light from the second light sources 32L and 32R is reflected by the rotating elliptical reflection surfaces 33L and 33R to be the second focal point. F2 _33L, (focus _{F 23} of the projection lens 23) _{F2 33R} was condensed near, partially reflected by the downward reflective surface 34, without another part is reflected by the downward reflective surface 34, the projection lens 23 Is transmitted and irradiated forward. As a result, the high beam light distribution pattern _PHi is formed.

10 (a) is an example of a high-beam light distribution pattern _{P Hi.} In FIG. 10 (a), an example of a high-beam light distribution pattern P _Hi formed directly facing the virtual vertical screen in front of the vehicle is shown.

At that time, as shown in FIG. _8A , the light source images I 32R1 and I _{32R2 of the plurality of light sources 32R 1} and 32R ₂ on the right side are on the left side with respect to the front end edge 21b1 of the reflective surface 21b provided below. It will be in a misaligned state. Then, the light source images I _32R1 and I _{32R2 in} a state of being shifted to the left side are projected in a state of being shifted to the right with respect to the intersection of the H line and the V line on the virtual vertical screen.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 8B, the light source images I _32L1 and I _{32L2 of the plurality of light sources 32L 1} and 32L ₂ on the left side are on the right side with respect to the front end edge 21b1 of the reflective surface 21b provided below. It will be in a misaligned state. _{Then, the light source images I 32L1} and I _{32L2 in} a state of being shifted to the right side are projected in a state of being shifted to the left with respect to the intersection of the H line and the V line on the virtual vertical screen.

The light source images I _32R2 and I _32L2 exemplified in FIGS. 8A and 8B are actually superimposed. Then, the superimposed light source image _{I 32R2, I 32L2} and the light source image _I 32R1 disposed on both sides _{thereof, I 32L1} is inverted projected on the virtual vertical screen. As a result, relatively brighter intersection near the H line and the V line, and the light distribution pattern P _Hi for high beam shown in wide 10 in the lateral direction (a) is formed.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8 (c), the cross-sectional shape of the downward reflecting surface 34 due to the vertical surface (and the plane parallel to the optical axis AX) including the optical axis AX is curved downward in a convex shape, so that it faces downward. The vertical dimensions of the _{light source images I 32R1} , I _32R2 , I _32L1 , and I _32L2 reflected by the reflecting surface 34 are h1 + h2. The light source image _{I 32R1, I 32R2, I 32L1} , I 32L2 that is projected onto a virtual vertical screen, the vertical direction thickness is large Fig 10 (a) the light distribution pattern _{P Hi} for high beam shown in is formed ..

On the other hand, when the cross-sectional shape of the downward reflecting surface 34 due to the vertical surface (and the plane parallel to the optical axis AX) including the optical axis AX is a planar shape (see reference numeral 34'in FIG. 8C), the downward reflecting surface The vertical dimension of the light source images I _32R1 , I _32R2 , I _32L1 , and I _{32L2 reflected by 34 is h1. By projecting} the light source images I 32R1, I _32R2 , I _32L1 , and I _32L2 onto the virtual vertical screen, the high beam light distribution pattern shown in FIG. 10 (b), which is thin in the vertical direction, is formed. FIG. 10B is an example of a high beam light distribution pattern (comparative example).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the luminous intensity distribution suitable for the low beam light distribution pattern (the luminous intensity in the vicinity of the front edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b is relatively relative to the front end opening A1 of the tubular reflecting surface 21. High luminosity distribution) can be formed.

First, the light Ray1 from the first light source 22 reflected by the first lower reflection surface 21b2 (see FIG. 12A) is in the _{vicinity of the second focal point F2 21b2} (the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflection surface 21b). Focusing on (nearby), secondly, the light Ray2 (see FIG. 12A) from the first light source 22 reflected by the second lower reflecting surface 21b3 is _{near the second focal point F2 21b2} (lower reflecting surface). Passing through the front edge 22b1 of 22b), thirdly, the light Ray3 (see FIG. 12A) from the first light source 22 reflected in this order by the first upper reflecting surface 21a1 and the lower reflecting surface 21b. This is due to passing through the vicinity of the second focal point F2 _21b2 (near the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflection surface 21b).

Further, according to the present embodiment, the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening A1 of the tubular reflecting surface 21 (the luminous intensity distribution in the vicinity of the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b) is determined by the projection lens 23. By back-projecting forward, it is possible to form a low-beam light distribution pattern with relatively high luminous intensity near the upper edge (cut-off line CL) and excellent distant visibility.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the luminous intensity of the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening A1 of the tubular reflective surface 21 gradually decreases from the vicinity of the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflective surface 21b toward the upward direction. It can be a distribution.

This is because the light from the first light source 22 reflected by the second upper reflecting surface 21a is diffused in the vertical direction, and the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening A1 is upward from the vicinity of the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b. This is due to the fact that the surface shape of the second upper reflecting surface is adjusted so that the luminous intensity is gradually decreased toward.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening A1 of the tubular reflecting surface 21 (gradient-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the front end edge 21b1 of the lower reflecting surface 21b toward the upper side). ) Is inverted and projected forward by the projection lens 23 to provide a low-beam light distribution pattern with an excellent light distribution feeling, with a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the upper end edge toward the bottom. Can be formed.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the luminous intensity in the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction is relatively high, and the luminous intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction toward both the left and right sides. It is possible to form a low beam light distribution pattern with an excellent feeling.

This is because the surface shapes of the left reflecting surface 21c and the right reflecting surface 21d are adjusted as described above.

Further, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a vehicle lamp unit 10 capable of forming a high beam light distribution pattern having a thick vertical direction without uneven luminous intensity.

This is because the cross-sectional shape of the downward reflecting surface 34 due to the vertical plane (and the plane parallel to the optical axis AX) including the optical axis AX is not a plane but is curved downward in a convex shape (see FIG. 8 (c)). ).

Further, according to this embodiment, the intersection near the relatively bright and H line and the V line, and can form a wide light distribution pattern for high beam P _Hi in the lateral direction.

This is the first focal point _{F1 33L} of the left ellipsoidal reflecting surface 33L is, the light source 32L ₂ vicinity closest to the optical axis AX of the plurality of light sources _32L 1, 32L ₂ of the left side (e.g., the light emitting surface of the light source 32L ₂ among relatively luminance it is positioned in a higher center) (see FIG. 5), and is due to the second focal point F2 _33L is positioned near the focal point F ₂₃ of the projection lens 23 (see FIG. 2).

The first focal point _{F1 33R} of the right ellipsoidal reflecting surface 33R is, the right of a plurality of light sources _32R 1, the light source 32R ₂ vicinity closest to the optical axis AX of the 32R ₂ (e.g., of the light-emitting surface of the light source 32R ₂ relatively luminance is positioned in a higher center) (see FIG. 5), and is due to the second focal point _{F2 33R} is positioned near the focal point _{F 23} of the projection lens 23 (see FIG. 2).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the vertical direction is maintained while relatively brightening the vicinity of the intersection between the H line and the V line, that is, maintaining the maximal intensity near the intersection between the H line and the V line. and it is possible to form the high-beam light distribution pattern P _Hi with excellent visibility wide in the horizontal direction.

In particular, according to the present embodiment, even if the rotary elliptical reflecting surface 33 is miniaturized to such an extent that the entire surface is largely hidden behind the projection lens 23 in front view (and thus, the entire vehicle lamp unit 10 is miniaturized). A high beam that is wide in the vertical and horizontal directions and has excellent visibility while relatively brightening the vicinity of the intersection of the H and V lines, that is, maintaining the maximal intensity near the intersection of the H and V lines. The light distribution pattern _PHi can be formed.

Next, a modification will be described.

In the above embodiment, an example in which the vehicle lighting unit of the present invention is applied to a vehicle headlight (headlamp) has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the vehicle lighting equipment of the present invention may be applied to vehicle lighting equipment other than vehicle headlamps (headlamps).

Further, in the above embodiment, an example in which the first optical system 20 and the second optical system 30 are configured as one vehicle lamp unit 10 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the projection lens 23 and the first optical system 20 are combined to form one vehicle lighting unit, and another projection lens 23 and the second optical system 30 are combined to form another vehicle lighting unit. You may.

Further, in the above embodiment, an example in which the spheroidal reflecting surface 33L on the left side and the spheroidal reflecting surface 33R on the right side are used as the spheroidal reflecting surface 33 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as the spheroidal reflecting surface 33, one spheroidal reflecting surface (one focal point and one second focal point) symmetrical with respect to the vertical plane including the optical axis AX may be used.

Further, in the above embodiment, as the tubular reflection surface 21, the front end opening A1 is larger than the rear end opening A2 and becomes narrower in a pyramid shape (square pyramid shape) from the front end opening A1 toward the rear end opening A2. An example using a surface has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as the tubular reflective surface 21, an optical surface (light emitting surface) corresponding to the front end opening A1, an optical surface (light entering surface) corresponding to the rear end opening A2, and reflective surfaces 21a, 21b, 21c provided on the top, bottom, left and right. A solid lens body including an optical surface corresponding to each of 21d and 21d (an optical surface that internally reflects light from the first light source 22 that has entered light from the incoming surface; a total reflecting surface) may be used.

All of the numerical values shown in the above embodiments are examples, and it goes without saying that appropriate numerical values different from these can be used.

Each of the above embodiments is merely an example in every respect. The present invention is not limitedly construed by the description of each of the above embodiments. The present invention can be practiced in various other forms without departing from its spirit or key features.

10 ... Vehicle lighting unit, 20 ... First optical system, 21 ... Cylindrical reflective surface, 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d ... Reflective surface, 21b1 ... Front edge, 22 ... First light source, 23 ... Projection lens, 23b ... Back surface, 30 ... 2nd optical system, 32 (32L, 32R) ... 2nd light source, 33 (33L, 33R) ... Rotating elliptical reflective surface, 34 ... downward reflecting surface, 40 ... holding member, 41 ... heat dissipation fin, 50 ... Lens holder

Claims (5)

A first optical system that is provided behind the projection lens and above the optical axis of the projection lens, and irradiates light that passes through the projection lens and is irradiated forward to form a low beam light distribution pattern. And, in the vehicle lighting equipment equipped with
The first optical system is
A tubular reflective surface whose front end opening is larger than the rear end opening and narrows in a cone shape from the front end opening toward the rear end opening, and is provided on the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the upper reflecting surface, the lower reflecting surface, the left reflecting surface, and the left reflecting surface. A tubular reflective surface composed of a right reflective surface and
A first light source provided so as to face the rear end opening is provided.
The focal point of the projection lens is located near the front edge of the lower reflection surface.
The front edge of the lower reflective surface is configured to have a shape corresponding to the cut-off line of the low beam light distribution pattern.
The lower reflecting surface is a vehicle lamp that is a rotating elliptical reflecting surface in which the first focus is located in the vicinity of the first light source and the second focus is located in the vicinity of the focal point of the projection lens. The lower reflecting surface includes a first lower reflecting surface arranged near the first light source and a second lower reflecting surface arranged far from the first light source.
The first lower reflecting surface is a rotating elliptical reflecting surface in which the first focus is located near the first light source and the second focus is located near the focal point of the projection lens.
The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, wherein the second lower reflecting surface is an inclined reflecting surface extending diagonally forward and downward from the front end of the first lower reflecting surface. The upper reflecting surface is a reflecting surface having a shape in which a cross section due to a vertical plane parallel to the optical axis is curved downward in a convex shape, and is a first upper reflecting surface arranged near the first light source. , A second upper reflective surface located far from the first light source.
The surface shape of the first upper reflecting surface is adjusted so that the light from the first light source reflected by the first upper reflecting surface is reflected by the lower reflecting surface and passes near the second focal point. And
In the second upper reflecting surface, the light from the first light source reflected by the second upper reflecting surface is diffused in the vertical direction, and the luminous intensity distribution formed in the front end opening is the front end of the lower reflecting surface. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the surface shape is adjusted so as to have a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases from the vicinity of the edge toward the upper side. The left reflective surface is a reflective surface having a horizontal cross section curved toward the right side, and is arranged near the first light source and far from the first light source. Including the second left reflective surface,
The surface shape of the first left reflecting surface is adjusted so that the light from the first light source reflected by the first left reflecting surface illuminates the vicinity of the center of the low beam light distribution pattern in the left-right direction. And
In the second left reflecting surface, the light from the first light source reflected by the second left reflecting surface is diffused in the left-right direction, and the low beam light distribution pattern moves from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction to the right side. The surface shape is adjusted so that the luminous intensity is gradually reduced according to the gradient-like luminous intensity distribution.
The right reflecting surface is a reflecting surface having a horizontal cross section curved toward the left side, and is arranged near the first light source and far from the first light source. Including the second right reflective surface,
The surface shape of the first right reflecting surface is adjusted so that the light from the first light source reflected by the first right reflecting surface illuminates the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction of the low beam light distribution pattern. And
In the second right reflecting surface, the light from the first light source reflected by the second right reflecting surface is diffused in the left-right direction, and the low beam light distribution pattern moves from the vicinity of the center in the left-right direction to the left side. The vehicle lamp according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the surface shape is adjusted so as to have a gradation-like luminous intensity distribution in which the luminous intensity gradually decreases. Further provided is a second optical system provided behind the projection lens and below the optical axis of the projection lens, and irradiating light that passes through the projection lens and is irradiated forward to form a light distribution pattern for a high beam. ,
The second optical system is
A second light source arranged to emit light downward,
A reflecting surface that reflects light from the second light source, the like having a rotating elliptical reflecting surface in which the first focus is located in the vicinity of the second light source and the second focus is located in the vicinity of the focal point of the projection lens. ,
The tubular reflective surface includes a downward reflecting surface extending diagonally backward and downward from the front end edge of the lower reflecting surface.
The vehicle lamp according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the downward reflecting surface due to a vertical surface parallel to the optical axis is curved downward in a convex shape.

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