JP7101526B2 - Vehicle lighting - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a vehicle lamp, and in particular, even if the front lens body is arranged in a posture in which a predetermined receding angle is tilted, the luminous intensity of a part of a predetermined light distribution pattern (for example, a low beam light distribution pattern) is relatively lowered. It relates to a vehicle lamp that can suppress the (so-called blurred state).

FIG. 15 is a vertical sectional view of a conventional vehicle lamp 100. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp 100 shown in FIG. 15 (omitted except for the main optical surface).

Conventionally, as shown in FIG. 15, the front lens body 101, the rear lens unit 102 arranged behind the front lens body 101, and the rear lens unit 102 arranged behind the rear lens unit 102 are transmitted through the rear lens unit 102 and the front lens body 101 in this order. A vehicle lighting tool 100 including a light source 103 that emits light that is irradiated forward to form a predetermined light distribution pattern (for example, a low beam light distribution pattern) is known (for example, Patent Document 1 (for example, Patent Document 1). See Fig. 32 etc.). The rear lens unit 102 is a lens unit responsible for collecting light in the first direction (for example, the direction orthogonal to the paper surface in FIG. 15), and the front lens body 101 is a second direction orthogonal to the first direction (for example, FIG. 15). This is the lens unit that is in charge of condensing light in the middle and up and down directions.

The rear lens portion 102 is an edge portion provided between the first light coming-in surface 102a, the first light-emitting surface 102b on the opposite side thereof, and the first light-emitting surface 102a and the first light-emitting surface 102b (focus F). It includes 102c and a reflective surface 102d extending rearward from the edge portion 102c. The curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 102b is constant in each vertical cross section.

The front lens body 101 includes a second light incoming surface 101a and a second light emitting surface 101b on the opposite side thereof.

The front lens body 101 and the rear lens portion 102 are connected by a connecting portion 104. The connecting portion 104 connects the upper portion of the front lens body 101 and the upper portion of the rear lens portion 102 with a space Sa sandwiched between them.

The front lens body 101, the rear lens portion 102, and the connecting portion 104 are made of a transparent resin such as polycarbonate or acrylic, and are integrally molded by injection molding using a mold.

Specifically, the front lens body 101, the rear lens portion 102, and the connecting portion 104 are formed by a mold whose pulling direction is opposite to that of the connecting portion 104 (see arrow AR in FIG. 15). In order to smoothly pull out the mold, the second light receiving surface 101a of the front lens body 101 is configured as a flat surface.

On the other hand, the second light emitting surface 101b of the front lens body 101 has a cylindrical axis in the first direction in order to collect the light emitted from the light source 103 emitted from the second light emitting surface 101b in the second direction orthogonal to the first direction. It is configured as a semi-cylindrical surface (cylindrical surface) that extends (in a line).

In the vehicle lighting tool 100 having the above configuration, when the light source 103 is turned on, the light from the light source 103 enters the rear lens portion 102 from the first light incoming surface 102a and is partially shielded by the reflecting surface 102d. Light is emitted from the first light emitting surface 102b together with the reflected light from the reflecting surface 102d. At that time, the light from the light source 103 emitted from the first light emitting surface 102b is focused in the first direction by the action of the first light emitting surface 102b. Then, the light emitted from the light source 103 emitted from the first light emitting surface 102b passes through the space Sa between the rear lens unit 102 and the front lens body 101, and further, from the second light entering surface 101a to the front lens body 101. Light enters the lens and emits light from the second light emitting surface 101b to be irradiated forward. At that time, the light from the light source 103 emitted from the second light emitting surface 101b is focused in the second direction by the action of the second light emitting surface 101b. As a result, a predetermined light distribution pattern (here, a low beam light distribution pattern) is formed.

International Publication No. 2015/178155

However, as a result of the examination by the present inventors, in the vehicle lamp 100 having the above configuration, as shown in FIG. 16, the front lens body 101 is tilted by a receding angle θ1 with respect to the reference axis AX1 extending in the vehicle width direction in the top view. It was found that the luminous intensity of a part of the predetermined light distribution pattern (here, the low beam light distribution pattern) is relatively low (so-called blurred state) when the light distribution pattern is arranged in a slanted position.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and even if the front lens body is arranged in a posture in which a predetermined receding angle is tilted, a part of the luminous intensity of the predetermined light distribution pattern (for example, the light distribution pattern for low beam) is It is an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle lighting fixture capable of suppressing a relative decrease (becoming a so-called blurred state).

In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention is a front lens body, a rear lens portion arranged behind the front lens body, and a rear lens portion arranged behind the rear lens portion. And in a vehicle lamp provided with a light source that transmits light in this order and irradiates forward to form a low beam light distribution pattern, the rear lens portion transmits the rear lens portion. In the lens unit that is in charge of condensing the light from the light source in at least the first direction, the light from the light source enters the first light incoming surface that enters the rear lens unit and the rear lens unit. The front lens body includes a first light emitting surface from which light from the light source is emitted and an edge portion that defines a cut-off line of the low beam light distribution pattern, and the front lens body is the rear lens portion that passes through the front lens body. In the lens unit responsible for condensing the light from the light in the second direction orthogonal to the first direction, the light from the rear lens unit enters the front lens body, the second light input surface, and the front lens. The front lens body includes a second light emitting surface from which light emitted from the rear lens portion that has entered the body is emitted, and the front lens body is arranged in a posture inclined by a predetermined receding angle, and the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface. And at least one of the curvatures of the vertical cross section of the second light input surface is different for each vertical cross section , and the vertical cross section includes the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces having different inclination angles. The cross section of the first light emitting surface or the cross section of the second light entering surface through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces is transmitted when light enters the front lens body from the light emitting surface, and the edge portion. Is to collect light in the rear lens portion when the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces emits light from the second light emitting surface and enters the rear lens portion from the first light emitting surface. The curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light input surface is the second light input surface and the first light exit surface through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes. It is characterized in that it is adjusted for each vertical cross section so that the shorter the distance between the two and the lighter, the larger the distance between the light and the light .

According to this aspect, a vehicle lighting device capable of suppressing a relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of a low beam light distribution pattern even when the front lens body is arranged in a posture tilted at a predetermined receding angle is provided. can do.

This is because at least one of the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface and the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light entering surface is made different for each vertical cross section.

Further, in the above invention, a preferred embodiment is that at least one of the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface and the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light entering surface is a focused line extending in the vehicle width direction. It is characterized in that it is adjusted for each of the vertical sections so as to be.

Further, in the above invention, a preferred embodiment is that the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface is between the second incoming surface and the first light emitting surface through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes. It is characterized in that it is adjusted for each vertical cross section so that the shorter the distance is, the larger the distance is.

Other aspects of the present invention include a front lens body, a rear lens portion arranged behind the front lens body, and a rear lens portion arranged behind the rear lens portion, and the rear lens portion and the front lens body are arranged in this order. In a vehicle lighting device comprising a plurality of light sources that transmit and emit light that is emitted forward to form an ADB light distribution pattern, the rear lens portion is the light from the light source that is transmitted through the rear lens portion. In the lens unit that is in charge of condensing light in at least the first direction, the light from the light source that enters the rear lens unit and the light from the light source that enters the rear lens unit are the light from the light source. The front lens body includes a first light emitting surface that emits light, and the front lens body is in charge of condensing light from the rear lens unit that passes through the front lens body in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. Then, a second incoming surface where the light from the rear lens portion enters the front lens body and a second light emitting surface where the light emitted from the rear lens portion entering the front lens body is emitted. Including, the front lens body is arranged in a posture inclined at a predetermined receding angle, and the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light entering surface, and the vertical cross section of the second light entering surface. At least one of the curvatures of the above is different for each vertical cross section, and in the vertical cross section, a group of horizontal light rays included in each of a plurality of vertical planes having different tilt angles enters the front lens body from the second light emitting surface. It is a cross section of the first light emitting surface, or a cross section of the first light entering surface or the second light entering surface through which a group of horizontal light rays included in each of the plurality of vertical faces is transmitted when illuminated, and the plurality of light sources. Is provided along the focused line formed by condensing the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical planes behind the rear lens portion when the horizontal light group is transmitted through the front lens body and the rear lens portion. The curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light input surface becomes larger as the distance between the second light input surface and the first light exit surface through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes is shorter. As described above, it is characterized in that it is adjusted for each vertical cross section .

According to this aspect, a vehicle lighting device capable of suppressing a relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of a low beam light distribution pattern even when the front lens body is arranged in a posture tilted at a predetermined receding angle is provided. can do.

This made at least one of the curvature of the vertical section of the first light emitting surface, the curvature of the vertical section of the first incoming surface, and the curvature of the vertical section of the second incoming surface different for each vertical section. It is due to the fact.

Further, in the above invention, a preferred embodiment is that at least one of the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light entering surface, and the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light entering surface is It is characterized in that the focused line is adjusted for each vertical cross section so as to be a focused line extending in the vehicle width direction.

Further, in the above invention, a preferred embodiment is that the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface is between the second incoming surface and the first light emitting surface through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes. It is characterized in that it is adjusted for each vertical cross section so that the shorter the distance is, the larger the distance is.

Further, in the above invention, a preferred embodiment is that the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light entry surface is the second light entry surface and the first light exit surface through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes. It is characterized in that it is adjusted for each vertical cross section so that the shorter the distance between them, the larger the distance.

It is a top view of the vehicle lamp 10. It is a front view of the light fixture 10 for a vehicle. FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along the line AA of the vehicle lamp 10 shown in FIG. It is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle lamp 10 (omitted except for the main optical surface). (A) An example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed when the curvature of the vertical section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each vertical section, (b) The curvature of the vertical section of the first light emitting surface 31b for each vertical section. This is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed when adjusted to. It is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle lamp 10 (omitted except for the main optical surface). (A) A2-A2 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. 6, (b) B2-B2 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. 6, and (c) C2-C2 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. (A) A2-A2 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. 6, (b) B2-B2 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. 6, and (c) C2-C2 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. (A) A1-A1 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. 4, (b) B1-B1 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. 4, and (c) C1-C1 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. (A) A1-A1 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. 4, (b) B1-B1 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. 4, and (c) C1-C1 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. It is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp 10A of the second embodiment (omitted except for the main optical surface). (A) is a cross-sectional view of B3-B3 of the vehicle lamp 10A shown in FIG. 11 (omitted except for the main optical surface), and (b) is a front view of the substrate K2 on which the light sources 42a to 42c are mounted. This is an example of an ADB light distribution pattern formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each vertical cross section. It is a cross-sectional view of a vehicle lamp 10A (omitted except for the main optical surface). It is a vertical sectional view of the conventional vehicle lamp 100. It is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp 100 shown in FIG. 15 (omitted except for the main optical surface).

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, the vehicle lamp 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. The corresponding components in each figure are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations are omitted.

FIG. 1 is a top view of the vehicle lamp 10. FIG. 2 is a front view of the vehicle lamp 10.

The vehicle lighting fixtures 10 shown in FIGS. 1 to 2 are vehicle headlamps (headlamps) capable of forming a low beam light distribution pattern, and are mounted on the left and right sides of the front end of a vehicle such as an automobile, respectively. To. Since the vehicle lighting fixtures 10 mounted on both the left and right sides have a symmetrical configuration, the vehicle lighting fixtures 10 mounted on the left side of the front end portion of the vehicle (the left side when facing the front of the vehicle) will be described below as a representative. .. Although not shown, the vehicle lighting fixture 10 is arranged in a lighting chamber composed of an outer lens and a housing, and is attached to the housing or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 2, the vehicle lighting fixture 10 includes a front lens body 20, a plurality of rear lens portions 31A to 31B arranged behind the front lens body 20, and a plurality of rear lens portions 31A to 31B. A plurality of light sources 40A to 40B, which are provided behind the lens and emit light that passes through the rear lens portions 31A to 31B and the front lens body 20 in this order and is irradiated forward to form a low beam light distribution pattern. .. Since the rear lens portions 31A to 31B and the light sources 40A to 40B have the same configuration, they are hereinafter referred to as the rear lens portion 31 and the light source 40 when they are not particularly distinguished. The rear lens unit 31 and the light source 40 may be one each.

The front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 31 are each made of a transparent resin such as acrylic or polycarbonate, and are individually molded in a state of being physically separated by injection molding using a mold. Although not shown, a lens holder or the like is used. It is configured as a lens body connected by a holding member of.

The front lens body 20 is a lens portion extending in a predetermined direction (hereinafter, also referred to as a first direction). In the first direction, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, the rearward angle θ1 is inclined with respect to the reference axis AX1 extending in the vehicle width direction in the top view, and the vehicle width is in front view as shown in FIG. It is a direction inclined by a hanging eye angle θ2 with respect to the reference axis AX1 extending in the direction. θ1 is an arbitrary angle within 90 degrees larger than 0, and θ2 is an arbitrary angle within 0 to 90 degrees. Hereinafter, in order to make the explanation easier to understand, a case where θ1 is 30 degrees and θ2 is 0 degrees will be described as an example.

In general vehicle lighting equipment, one projection lens is in charge of condensing light in the first direction and condensing light in the second direction orthogonal to the first direction, whereas in the present embodiment, the projection lens is configured. The two lenses (front lens body 20 and rear lens unit 31) are in charge of condensing light in the first direction and condensing light in the second direction orthogonal to the first direction. That is, in the present embodiment, the rear lens unit 31 is mainly in charge of light collection in the first direction, and the front lens body 20 is mainly in charge of light collection in the second direction.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along the line AA of the vehicle lamp 10 shown in FIG. The dotted line extending in the vehicle front-rear direction indicated by the reference numeral AX _Lo in FIGS. 1, 3 and the like represents the optical axis of the projection lens composed of the front lens body 20 and the rear lens unit 31. Hereinafter, it is referred to as an optical axis AX _Lo .

As shown in FIG. 3, the front lens body 20 includes a second light incoming surface 21 and a second light emitting surface 22 on the opposite side thereof. The second light coming-in surface 21 and the second light-emitting surface 22 each extend in the first direction (for example, in FIG. 3, in the direction orthogonal to the paper surface).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the second light entrance surface 21 is configured as a cylindrical surface that is convex toward the front and the cylindrical axis extends in the first direction. Further, the second light emitting surface 22 is configured as a cylindrical surface that is convex toward the front and has a cylindrical axis extending in the first direction. The curvatures of the second light coming-in surface 21 and the second light-emitting surface 22 (curvature of the cross section orthogonal to the first direction) are the same in each cross section. The second light incoming surface 21 or the second light emitting surface 22 may be a flat surface or a flat surface.

The light source 40 is a semiconductor light emitting element such as an LED or LD having a rectangular (for example, 1 mm square) light emitting surface, and is mounted on the substrate K1 with the light emitting surface facing forward (front). The substrate K1 is attached to a housing (not shown) or the like by screwing or the like.

The rear lens portion 31 is an edge provided between the first light incoming surface 31a, the first light emitting surface 31b on the opposite side thereof, and the first light entering surface 31a and the first light emitting surface 31b (focus F _Lo ). A portion 31c, a reflecting surface 31d extending rearward from the edge portion 31c, an extending surface 31e extending downward from the edge portion 31c, and a peripheral reflecting surface 31f are included.

The first light entering surface 31a extends rearward from (all or a part of) the central light entering surface 31a1 convex toward the light source 40 and the outer peripheral edge of the central light entering surface 31a1, and the central light entering surface 31a1. Includes a cylindrical ambient light entry surface 31a2 that surrounds the space between the light source 40 and the light source 40.

The central light entry surface 31a1 is a surface of the light from the light source 40 in which light in the narrow angle direction enters the rear lens portion 31 with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo (which coincides with the optical axis of the light source 40). .. The central light entry surface 31a1 is configured as, for example, a surface in which light from the light source 40 that enters the rear lens portion 31 from the central light entry surface 31a1 is focused in the vicinity of the focal point F _Lo (edge portion 31c). Since the light source 40 is not actually a point light source but has a certain size, the light from the light source 40 that enters the rear lens unit 31 from the central light input surface 31a1 is completely at one point (focus F _Lo ). The light is focused near the focal point F _Lo (edge portion 31c) without focusing.

The focal point F _Lo means that when a group of horizontal rays parallel to the optical axis AX _Lo passes through the front lens body 20 from the front of the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens unit 31, the inside of the rear lens unit 31. It is a focusing point on the optical axis AX _Lo that is focused by.

The ambient light entry surface 31a2 is a surface in which light in the wide-angle direction with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo among the light from the light source 40 enters the rear lens portion 31. The light from the light source 40 that has entered the rear lens unit 31 from the ambient light entry surface 31a2 is internally reflected (totally reflected) by the ambient reflection surface 31f.

In the peripheral reflection surface 31f, the light from the light source 40 that enters the rear lens portion 31 from the ambient light input surface 31a2 and is internally reflected (totally reflected) by the peripheral reflection surface 31f is near the focal point F _Lo (edge portion 31c). It is configured as a surface that collects light. Since the light source 40 is not actually a point light source but has a certain size, the light from the light source 40 that enters the rear lens unit 31 from the ambient light incoming surface 31a2 is completely at one point (focus F _Lo ). The light is focused near the focal point F _Lo (edge portion 31c) without focusing.

The first light emitting surface 31b is a surface on which light from the light source 40 that has entered the rear lens unit 31 from the first light incoming surface 31a is emitted.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp 10 (omitted except for the main optical surface).

As shown in FIG. 4, the cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is configured as a curved surface that is convex toward the front. The curvature of the cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each cross section. On the other hand, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is not the same in each vertical cross section, but is different for each vertical cross section. For example, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is different in each of the A1-A1 cross section, the B1-B1 cross section, and the C1-C1 cross section in FIG. The B1-B1 cross section is a vertical cross section including the optical axis AX _Lo . The A1-A1 cross section is a cross section in the rear lens 31 that intersects the optical axis AX _Lo in front of the light focusing point CP2B described later, and the front lens retracts with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo from the front to the rear. It is a vertical cross section inclined in the direction. The C1-C1 cross section is a cross section in the rear lens 31 that intersects the optical axis AX _Lo in front of the light focusing point CP2B described later, and the front lens retracts with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo from the front to the rear. It is a vertical cross section inclined in the direction opposite to the direction. The A1-A1 cross section, the B1-B1 cross section, and the C1-C1 cross section all intersect at the same location in the rear lens 31. That is, the A1-A1 cross section and the C1-C1 cross section are vertical cross sections having different inclination angles while keeping the intersections at the same positions with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo . How the curvatures of the vertical cross sections of the first emission surface 31b are different will be described later.

The edge portion 31c is provided along the focused line as described later. Although not shown, the edge portion 31c has, for example, a Z-shaped step portion.

The focused line means that a plurality of horizontal light rays included in each of a plurality of vertical planes having different tilt angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo pass through the front lens body 20 from the front of the front lens body 20 and enter the rear lens portion 31. It is a group of focusing points formed by condensing light in the rear lens unit 31 when it is illuminated. The solid line indicated by the reference numerals FL2L and FL2R in FIG. 4 and the dotted line indicated by the reference numerals FL1L and FL1R in FIG. 6 are examples of the focused line. Hereinafter, it is described as a focused line FL1L, a focused line FL1R, a focused line FL2L, and a focused line FL2R. The focused line FL1L, the focused line FL1R, the focused line FL2L, and the focused line FL2R will be further described later.

In the vehicle lighting tool 10 having the above configuration, when the light source 40 is turned on, the light from the light source 40 enters the rear lens portion 31 from the first incoming light surface 31a and collects in the vicinity of the focal point F _Lo (edge portion 31c). After shining and being partially shielded by the reflecting surface 31d, the light is emitted from the first light emitting surface 31b together with the reflected light from the reflecting surface 31d. At that time, the light from the light source 40 emitted from the first light emitting surface 31b is collected in the first direction by the action of the first light emitting surface 31b (cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b). Then, the light emitted from the light source 40 emitted from the first light emitting surface 31b passes through the space S1 between the rear lens unit 31 and the front lens body 20, and further, the front lens body 20 from the second light entering surface 21. Light enters the lens and emits light from the second light emitting surface 22 to be irradiated forward. At that time, the light from the light source 40 emitted from the second light emitting surface 22 is focused in the second direction by the action of the second light incoming surface 21 and the second light emitting surface 22. As a result, a low beam light distribution pattern is formed. The low beam light distribution pattern includes a cut-off line defined by the edge portion 31c at the upper end edge.

In other words, the luminous intensity distribution formed in the vicinity of the edge portion 31c by the light from the light source 40 that has entered the rear lens portion 31 is inverted and projected forward by the rear lens portion 31 and the front lens body 20 that function as projection lenses. The lens. As a result, a low beam light distribution pattern is formed.

Next, a low beam light distribution pattern formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each vertical cross section will be described.

FIG. 5A is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each vertical cross section. FIG. 5A shows an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed on a virtual vertical screen facing the front of the vehicle (arranged about 25 m ahead of the front of the vehicle).

As confirmed by the present inventors by simulation, when the front lens body 20 is arranged in a posture in which the receding angle θ1 is tilted with respect to the reference axis AX1 in the top view as shown in FIG. 1, the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b. It was found that when the curvature of the light is the same in each vertical cross section, the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern is relatively reduced (so-called blurred state).

Referring to FIG. 5A, for example, the luminous intensity near the cutoff from 5 to 20 degrees to the left is lower than the luminous intensity near the cutoff from 5 to 20 degrees to the right, and a part of the low beam light distribution pattern (FIG. 5). It can be seen that the luminous intensity in (a) the range surrounded by the square B1 in (a) is relatively low. In FIGS. 5 (a) and 5 (b), one square (each square) represents 5 degrees in the vertical direction (vertical V direction) and 5 degrees in the horizontal direction (horizontal H direction). The same applies to FIG. The reason why the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern is reduced in this way is as follows.

First, with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, a focused line formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each vertical cross section will be described. Note that FIG. 6 is the same as FIG. 4 except that the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each vertical cross section and the positions of the focused lines and focal points (condensing points) are different.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp 10 (omitted except for the main optical surface). FIG. 6 shows the focused lines FL1L and FL1R formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each vertical cross section.

FIG. 7A represents an A2-A2 cross section (longitudinal cross section) in FIG. In FIG. 7A, a horizontal ray group Ray1A passing through the A2-A2 cross section of the front lens body 20 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 7 (a), when the horizontal ray group Ray1A included in the A2-A2 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, the focal point F _Lo (FIG. 7 (b)). (See) Condensing light in front of it to form a focusing point CP1A.

Similarly, although not shown, a group of horizontal rays included in each of a plurality of vertical cross sections (a plurality of vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ) between the A2-A2 cross section and the B2-B2 cross section. Even when light is transmitted through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, light is focused in front of the focal point F _Lo to form a focusing point (group).

The condensing point cloud such as the condensing point CP1A formed by condensing in front of the focal point F _Lo in this way is a focused line as shown by a dotted line on the left side with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo in FIG. It constitutes FL1L.

FIG. 7B represents a B2-B2 cross section (longitudinal cross section) in FIG. In FIG. 7B, a horizontal ray group Ray1B passing through the B2-B2 cross section of the front lens body 20 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 7B, when the horizontal ray group Ray1B included in the B2-B2 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, it is focused and collected at the focal point F _Lo . The light spot CP1B is formed.

FIG. 7C represents a C2-C2 cross section (longitudinal cross section) in FIG. In FIG. 7C, a horizontal ray group Ray1C passing through the C2-C2 cross section of the front lens body 20 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 7 (c), when the horizontal ray group Ray1C included in the C2-C2 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, the focal point F _Lo (FIG. 7 (b)). (See) Condensing light behind it to form a focusing point CP1C.

Similarly, although not shown, a group of horizontal rays included in each of a plurality of vertical cross sections (a plurality of vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ) between the B2-B2 cross section and the C2-C2 cross section. Even when light is transmitted through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, light is focused behind the focal point F _Lo to form a condensing point (group).

The condensing point cloud such as the condensing point CP1C formed by condensing after the focal point F _Lo in this way is a focused line as shown by a dotted line on the right side with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo in FIG. It constitutes FL1R.

The focused line FL1L and the focused line FL1R are asymmetrical with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo in FIG. This is because the distance between the second incoming light surface 21 and the first light emitting surface 31b through which each horizontal ray group passes differs for each horizontal ray group (for example, the distance L1 in FIG. 7). See L2 and L3. L1>L2> L3).

Next, with reference to FIG. 8, the optical path of the light from the light source 40 passing near the focused lines FL1L and FL1R (edge portions 31c provided along the focused lines FL1L and FL1R) configured as described above will be described. do.

FIG. 8A shows the A2-A2 cross section (vertical cross section) in FIG. In FIG. 8A, the light Ray1a from the light source 40 passing through the A2-A2 cross section of the rear lens portion 31 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 8A, in the A2-A2 cross section, light enters the rear lens portion 31 from the first incoming light surface 31a (peripheral incoming light surface 31a2) and is internally reflected by the peripheral reflecting surface 31f to collect light. Since the light Ray1a from the light source 40 passing near the light point CP1A (focused line FL1L) passes near the focusing point CP1A at a relatively shallow angle (angle within the capture angle of the first light emitting surface 31b), the first Light is emitted from the light emitting surface 31b, and is further transmitted through the front lens body 20 and irradiated forward to be used for forming a low beam light distribution pattern.

Although not shown, in each of the plurality of vertical cross sections between the A2-A2 cross section and the B2-B2 cross section (plural vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ), the first light entry surface 31a (peripheral entry). The same applies to the light from the light source 40 that enters the rear lens portion 31 from the optical surface 31a2), is internally reflected by the peripheral reflection surface 31f, and passes near the condensing point (focused line FL1L).

FIG. 8B represents a B2-B2 cross section (longitudinal cross section) in FIG. In FIG. 8B, the light Ray1b from the light source 40 passing through the B2-B2 cross section of the rear lens portion 31 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 8B, in the B2-B2 cross section, light enters the rear lens portion 31 from the first incoming light surface 31a (peripheral incoming light surface 31a2) and is internally reflected by the peripheral reflecting surface 31f to collect light. The light Ray1b from the light source 40 passing near the light point CP1B (focus F _Lo ) passes near the light collection point CP1B (focus F _Lo ) at a relatively shallow angle (angle within the capture angle of the first light emitting surface 31b). Therefore, light is emitted from the first light emitting surface 31b, is further transmitted through the front lens body 20 and is irradiated forward, and is used for forming a low beam light distribution pattern.

FIG. 8C represents a C2-C2 cross section (longitudinal cross section) in FIG. In FIG. 8C, the light Ray1c from the light source 40 passing through the C2-C2 cross section of the rear lens portion 31 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 8C, in the C2-C2 cross section, light enters the rear lens portion 31 from the first incoming light surface 31a (peripheral incoming light surface 31a2) and is internally reflected by the peripheral reflecting surface 31f to collect light. Since the light Ray1c from the light source 40 passing near the light point CP1C (focused line FL1R) passes near the focusing point CP1C at a relatively deep angle (an angle outside the capture angle of the first light emitting surface 31b), the first Light is not emitted from the light emitting surface 31b and is not used for forming a low beam light distribution pattern.

Although not shown, in each of the plurality of vertical cross sections between the B2-B2 cross section and the C2-C2 cross section (plural vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ), the first light entry surface 31a (peripheral entry). The same applies to the light from the light source 40 that enters the rear lens portion 31 from the optical surface 31a2), is internally reflected by the peripheral reflection surface 31f, and passes near the condensing point (focused line FL1R).

As described above, the light from the light source 40 such as Ray1c passing near the focused line FL1R passes near the edge portion 31c (focused line FL1R) at a relatively deep angle (angle outside the capture angle of the first light emitting surface 31b). Therefore, the light is not emitted from the first light emitting surface 31b and is not used for forming the low beam light distribution pattern. As a result, the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern (the range surrounded by the square B1 in FIG. 5A) is lowered.

Next, a configuration for suppressing a relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern will be described.

As a result of diligent studies, the present inventors adjust the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b for each vertical cross section in order to suppress the relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern. As a result, it was found that it is possible to suppress a relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern.

This adjustment is an adjustment for making the focused lines FL1L and FL1R shown in FIG. 6 into the focused lines FL2L and FL2R extending in the vehicle width direction shown in FIG. 4, and is performed using predetermined simulation software.

Next, with reference to FIG. 9, a focused line formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is adjusted for each vertical cross section will be described. FIG. 4 shows the focused lines FL2L and FL2R formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is adjusted for each vertical cross section.

FIG. 9A shows a cross section (longitudinal cross section) of A1-A1 in FIG. In FIG. 9A, a horizontal ray group Ray2A passing through the A1-A1 cross section of the front lens body 20 is drawn. In FIG. 9A, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is such that when the horizontal ray group Ray2A included in the A1-A1 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31. The first curvature is adjusted (set) so as to condense light in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 (see FIG. 4) to form a condensing point CP2A. As shown in FIG. 4, the reference axis AX2 is, for example, a horizontal line orthogonal to the optical axis AX _Lo and passes through the focal point F _Lo .

Similarly, although not shown, the curvature of each of the plurality of vertical cross sections (multiple vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ) between the A1-A1 cross section and the B1-B1 cross section is also a plurality of vertical cross sections. When the horizontal light group included in each of them passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens unit 31, it is adjusted (set) so as to condense light in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 and form a focusing point (group). ) Has been.

By adjusting the curvature in this way, the focusing point cloud such as CP2A extends in the vehicle width direction along the reference axis AX2 as shown by the solid line on the left side with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo in FIG. The line FL2L is configured.

FIG. 9B shows a cross section (longitudinal cross section) of B1-B1 in FIG. In FIG. 9B, a horizontal ray group Ray2B passing through the B2-B2 cross section of the front lens body 20 is drawn. In FIG. 9B, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is such that when the horizontal ray group Ray2B included in the B1-B1 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31. The second curvature (second curvature> first curvature) is adjusted (set) so as to condense light in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form the focusing point CP2B.

FIG. 9C represents a C1-C1 cross section (longitudinal cross section) in FIG. In FIG. 9C, a horizontal ray group Ray2C passing through the C1-C1 cross section of the front lens body 20 is drawn. In FIG. 9 (c), the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is such that when the horizontal ray group Ray2C included in the C1-C1 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31. The third curvature (third curvature> second curvature) is adjusted (set) so as to condense light in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form the focusing point CP2C.

Similarly, although not shown, the curvature of each of the plurality of vertical cross sections (multiple vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ) between the B1-B1 cross section and the C1-C1 cross section is also a plurality of vertical cross sections. When the horizontal light group included in each of them passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens unit 31, it is adjusted (set) so as to condense light in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 and form a focusing point (group). ) Has been.

By adjusting the curvature in this way, the focusing point cloud such as CP2C extends in the vehicle width direction along the reference axis AX2 as shown by the solid line on the right side with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo in FIG. It constitutes the line FL2R.

The focused lines FL2L and FL2R configured as described above do not have to completely coincide with the reference axis AX2, and may be along the reference axis AX2.

Next, with reference to FIG. 10, an optical path of light from the light source 40 passing near the focused lines FL2L and FL2R (edge portions 31c provided along the focused lines FL2L and FL2R) configured as described above will be described. do.

FIG. 10A represents a cross section (longitudinal cross section) of A1-A1 in FIG. In FIG. 10A, the light Ray2a from the light source 40 passing through the A1-A1 cross section of the rear lens portion 31 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 10A, in the A1-A1 cross section, light enters the rear lens portion 31 from the first incoming light surface 31a (peripheral incoming light surface 31a2) and is internally reflected by the peripheral reflecting surface 31f to collect light. Since the light Ray2a from the light source 40 passing near the light point CP2A (focused line FL2L) passes near the focusing point CP2A at a relatively shallow angle (angle within the capture angle of the first light emitting surface 31b), the first Light is emitted from the light emitting surface 31b, and is further transmitted through the front lens body 20 and irradiated forward to be used for forming a low beam light distribution pattern.

Although not shown, in each of the plurality of vertical cross sections between the A1-A1 cross section and the B1-B1 cross section (plural vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ), the first light entry surface 31a (peripheral entry). The same applies to the light from the light source 40 that enters the rear lens portion 31 from the optical surface 31a2), is internally reflected by the peripheral reflection surface 31f, and passes near the condensing point (focused line FL2L).

FIG. 10B shows a cross section (longitudinal cross section) of B1-B1 in FIG. In FIG. 10B, the light Ray2b from the light source 40 passing through the B1-B1 cross section of the rear lens portion 31 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 10B, in the B1-B1 cross section, light enters the rear lens portion 31 from the first incoming light surface 31a (peripheral incoming light surface 31a2) and is internally reflected by the peripheral reflecting surface 31f to collect light. The light Ray2b from the light source 40 passing near the light point CP2B (focus F _Lo ) passes near the light collection point CP2B (focus F _Lo ) at a relatively shallow angle (angle within the capture angle of the first light emitting surface 31b). Therefore, light is emitted from the first light emitting surface 31b, is further transmitted through the front lens body 20 and is irradiated forward, and is used for forming a low beam light distribution pattern.

FIG. 10 (c) represents a C1-C1 cross section (longitudinal cross section) in FIG. In FIG. 10 (c), the light Ray2c from the light source 40 passing through the C1-C1 cross section of the rear lens portion 31 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 10C, in the C1-C1 cross section, light enters the rear lens portion 31 from the first incoming light surface 31a (peripheral incoming light surface 31a2) and is internally reflected by the peripheral reflecting surface 31f to collect light. Unlike FIG. 8C, the light Ray2c from the light source 40 passing near the light point CP2C (focused line FL2R) has a relatively shallow angle (the angle within the capture angle of the first light emitting surface 31b) and the light focusing point CP2C. Since it passes through the vicinity, light is emitted from the first light emitting surface 31b, and is further transmitted through the front lens body 20 and irradiated forward to be used for forming a low beam light distribution pattern.

Although not shown, in each of the plurality of vertical cross sections between the B1-B1 cross section and the C1-C1 cross section (plural vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ), the first light entry surface 31a (peripheral entry). The same applies to the light from the light source 40 that enters the rear lens portion 31 from the optical surface 31a2), is internally reflected by the peripheral reflection surface 31f, and passes near the condensing point (focused line FL2R).

FIG. 5B is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is adjusted for each vertical cross section as described above. FIG. 5B shows an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed on a virtual vertical screen facing the front surface of the vehicle.

Referring to FIG. 5 (b), for example, the luminous intensity near the cutoff from 5 to 20 degrees to the left is the low beam light distribution pattern shown in FIG. Higher than the low beam light distribution pattern formed when the surfaces are the same), the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern (luminous intensity in the range surrounded by the square B2 in FIG. 5 (b)) is relatively low. It can be seen that the activity is suppressed.

As shown in FIG. 10 (c), the light from the light source 40 such as Ray2c passing near the focused line FL2R has a relatively shallow angle (an angle within the capture angle of the first light emitting surface 31b) and the edge portion 31c. As a result of passing near (focused line FL2R), as shown in FIG. 5 (b), the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern (luminous intensity in the range surrounded by the square B2 in FIG. 5 (b)) increases. By doing.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, even if the front lens body 20 is arranged in a posture tilted by a predetermined receding angle θ1 as shown in FIG. 1, the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern is relative. It is possible to provide a vehicle lighting fixture 10 capable of suppressing a decrease in light intensity (a so-called blurred state).

This is because the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is different for each vertical cross section (see FIG. 10).

Specifically, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is such that the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical cross sections (vertical faces) having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo is the front lens body 20. When light is transmitted from the front through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, light is focused in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form focused lines FL2L and FL2R (condensing point group) along the reference axis AX2. This is because it is adjusted (set) for each vertical section.

In other words, the second light input surface 21 and the first light input surface 21 through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo passes through the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emission surface 31b. This is due to the adjustment for each vertical cross section so that the shorter the distance from the light emitting surface 31b, the larger the distance (see FIGS. 10 (a) to 10 (c)).

Further, the first light emitting surface 31b is a curved surface mainly in charge of condensing in the first direction, but also has a curved surface (curved surface in the vertical direction) having a condensing function in the second direction, and the curved surface in the vertical direction is The curvature is adjusted (set) so that the curvature increases in the backward direction of the front lens (from right to left in FIG. 4).

The first light emitting surface 31b may be a free curved surface. For example, in the first light emitting surface 31b, a horizontal ray group (hereinafter referred to as a horizontal ray group A) included in each of a plurality of vertical cross sections (vertical faces) having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo is a front lens body. When light is transmitted from the front of the 20 through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, the light is focused near the reference axis AX2 to form focused lines FL2L and FL2R (condensing point group) along the reference axis AX2. As such, it may be a free curved surface whose surface shape is adjusted (set).

The first light emitting surface 31b (free curved surface) can be configured as follows, for example. For example, using predetermined simulation software, the front lens body 20 is transmitted from the front of the front lens body 20 (the second light emitting surface 22, the second light entering surface 21, and the first light emitting surface 31b are transmitted in this order). The reference plane (concentrated point group) is formed so that the horizontal light group A that has entered the rear lens portion 31 is focused in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form the focused lines FL2L and FL2R (condensing point group) along the reference axis AX2. It can be configured by changing (adjusting) the surface shape of the surface that is the basis of the first light emitting surface 31b, for example, a curved surface that is convex toward the front.

As a result, even if the front lens body 20 is arranged in a posture tilted by a predetermined receding angle θ1 as shown in FIG. 1, it is possible to suppress a relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern. ..

Further, according to the present embodiment, both the second light entering surface 21 and the second light emitting surface 22 are configured as a cylindrical surface having a convex shape toward the front and a cylindrical axis extending in the first direction (). (See FIG. 3), that is, since not only the second light emitting surface 22 but also the second light input surface 21 can be in charge of condensing in the second direction, the second light input surface is a flat surface and condensing in the second direction. Compared with the above-mentioned conventional technique in which only the second light emitting surface is in charge, the wall thickness in the optical axis AX _Lo direction of the front lens body 20 can be reduced while maintaining the light collection rate. This makes it possible to reduce the material cost (cost reduction) of the front lens body 20.

Next, a modification will be described.

In the first embodiment, an example will be described in which the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is made different for each vertical cross section to suppress the relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern. However, it is not limited to this.

For example, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b may be the same in each vertical cross section, and the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light entering surface 21 may be different for each vertical cross section.

For example, when a group of horizontal light rays included in each of a plurality of vertical cross sections passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, they are focused in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form a focusing point (group). As such, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light receiving surface 21 is adjusted (set) for each vertical cross section.

In other words, the second light input surface 21 and the second light input surface 21 through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo passes through the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light input surface 21. 1 Adjust for each vertical section so that the shorter the distance from the light emitting surface 31b, the larger the distance.

Further, the second incoming light surface 21 has a curved surface (curved surface in the vertical direction) having a light collecting function in the second direction, and the curved surface in the vertical direction is in the backward direction of the front lens (from right to left in FIG. 4). It is adjusted (set) so that the curvature or the light-collecting function becomes larger toward the direction.

The second light coming-in surface 21 may be a free curved surface like the first light-emitting surface 31b.

This also makes it possible to suppress a relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern.

Further, for example, the curvature (or condensing function) of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b and the curvature (or condensing function) of the vertical cross section of the second light entering surface 21 may be different for each vertical cross section. For example, when a group of horizontal light rays included in each of a plurality of vertical cross sections passes through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 31, they are focused in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form a focusing point (group). As such, the curvatures of the vertical cross sections of the first light emitting surface 31b and the second light entering surface 21 are adjusted (set) for each vertical cross section. This also makes it possible to suppress the relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the low beam light distribution pattern.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, as a second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, a vehicle lamp 10A using a rear lens unit 41 instead of the rear lens unit 31 and a plurality of light sources 42a to 42c instead of the light source 40. Will be explained. Other than that, the configuration is the same as that of the above embodiment. Hereinafter, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, the same components as those of the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp 10A of the second embodiment (omitted except for the main optical surface).

As shown in FIG. 11, the vehicle lighting tool 10A is a vehicle lighting tool capable of forming a light distribution pattern for ADB, and includes a front lens body 20, a rear lens portion 41 arranged behind the front lens body 20, and a rear lens portion 41. A plurality of light sources 42a to 42c provided behind the rear lens portion 41, transmitted through the rear lens portion 41 and the front lens body 20 in this order and irradiated forward to form an ADB light distribution pattern, and light sources 42a to 42c. To prepare for. The rear lens unit 41 and the light sources 42a to 42c may each have a plurality of units.

The front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41 are each made of a transparent resin such as acrylic or polycarbonate, and are individually molded in a state of being physically separated by injection molding using a mold. Although not shown, a lens holder or the like is used. It is configured as a lens body connected by a holding member of.

12 (a) is a cross-sectional view of B3-B3 of the vehicle lamp 10A shown in FIG. 11 (omitted except for the main optical surface). The line extending in the vehicle front-rear direction indicated by the reference numeral AX _ADB in FIGS. 11 and 12A represents the optical axis of the projection lens composed of the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41. Hereinafter, it is referred to as an optical axis AX _ADB .

FIG. 12B is a front view of the substrate K2 on which the light sources 42a to 42c are mounted.

As shown in FIG. 12B, the light sources 42a to 42c are semiconductor light emitting elements such as LEDs and LDs having a rectangular (for example, 1 mm square) light emitting surface, and the light emitting surface is directed forward (front). Is mounted on the board K2. The light sources 42a to 42c are arranged in a row in the horizontal direction. The substrate K2 is attached to a housing (not shown) or the like by screwing or the like.

As shown in FIG. 12B, the rear lens portion 41 includes a first light incoming surface 41a and a first light emitting surface 41b on the opposite side thereof. The rear lens unit 41 is mainly in charge of condensing the light from the light sources 42a to 42c transmitted through the rear lens unit 41 in the first direction.

The first light entry surface 41a is a surface on which light from the light sources 42a to 42c enters the rear lens portion 41. The first light receiving surface 41a is configured as a curved surface that is convex toward the front. The curvature of the vertical cross section and the curvature of the cross section of the first light receiving surface 41a are, for example, the same in each vertical cross section and each cross section.

The first light emitting surface 41b is a surface on which light emitted from the light sources 42a to 42c that has entered the rear lens unit 41 from the first light incoming surface 41a is emitted.

As shown in FIG. 11, the cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is configured as a curved surface that is convex toward the front. The curvature of the cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is the same in each cross section. On the other hand, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is not the same in each vertical cross section as in the first embodiment, but is different for each vertical cross section. For example, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is different in each of the A3-A3 cross section, the B3-B3 cross section, and the C3-C3 cross section in FIG. How the curvatures of the vertical cross sections of the first light emitting surface 41b are different will be described later.

The light sources 42a to 42c are provided along the focused line as described later.

The focused line is a case where a plurality of horizontal light rays included in each of a plurality of vertical planes having different tilt angles with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB pass through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41 from the front of the front lens body 20. It is a group of focusing points formed by condensing light behind the rear lens unit 41. The solid line indicated by the reference numerals FL4L and FL4R in FIG. 11 and the dotted line indicated by the reference numerals FL3L and FL3R in FIG. 14 are examples of the focused line. Hereinafter, it is described as a focused line FL3L, a focused line FL3R, a focused line FL4L, and a focused line FL4R. The focused line FL3L, the focused line FL3R, the focused line FL4L, and the focused line FL4R will be further described later.

In the vehicle lamp 10A having the above configuration, when the light sources 42a to 42c are turned on, the light from the light sources 42a to 42c enters the rear lens portion 41 from the first light incoming surface 41a and emits light from the first light emitting surface 41b. do. At that time, the light emitted from the light sources 42a to 42c emitted from the first light emitting surface 41b is collected in the first direction by the action of the first light emitting surface 41b (cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b). Then, the light emitted from the light sources 42a to 42c emitted from the first light emitting surface 41b passes through the space S2 between the rear lens portion 41 and the front lens body 20, and further, the front lens from the second incoming surface 21. It enters the body 20 and emits light from the second light emitting surface 22 to be irradiated forward. At that time, the light emitted from the light sources 42a to 42c emitted from the second light emitting surface 22 is collected in the second direction by the action of the second incoming light surface 21 and the second light emitting surface 22. As a result, the light distribution pattern for ADB is formed.

In other words, the light source images of the light sources 42a to 42c are inverted and projected forward by the rear lens unit 41 and the front lens body 20 that function as projection lenses. As a result, the light distribution pattern for ADB is formed.

Next, the ADB light distribution pattern formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is the same in each vertical cross section will be described.

FIG. 13 is an example of an ADB light distribution pattern formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same in each vertical cross section. FIG. 13 shows an example of an ADB light distribution pattern formed on a virtual vertical screen facing the front surface of the vehicle.

As shown in FIG. 13, the ADB light distribution pattern includes a plurality of irradiation regions P1 to P3 arranged in a horizontal row in the high beam region. The irradiation areas P1 to P3 are individually turned off (including lighting in the dimmed state) according to the point extinguishing (including lighting in the dimmed state) of the light sources 42a to 42c. Note that FIG. 13 is an example of an ADB light distribution pattern formed in a state where the light sources 42a to 42c are each lit (fully lit).

As confirmed by the present inventors by simulation, when the front lens body 20 is arranged in a posture in which the receding angle θ1 is tilted with respect to the reference axis AX1 in the top view as shown in FIG. 11, the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b. It was found that when the curvature of the ADB is the same in each vertical cross section, a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB is stretched in the vertical direction and the luminous intensity is relatively lowered (so-called blurred state).

With reference to FIG. 13, it can be seen that a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB (the part indicated by the arrow AR1) is stretched in the vertical direction from the part indicated by the arrow AR2, and the luminous intensity is relatively lowered. The reason why the luminous intensity of a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB is reduced in this way is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 8 (c) in the first embodiment. The reason for this will be briefly described below.

First, with reference to FIG. 14, a focused line formed when the curvature of each vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 31b is the same will be described.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lamp 10A (except for the main optical surface). FIG. 14 shows the focused lines FL3L and FL3R formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is the same in each vertical cross section.

When the horizontal light group included in the A4-A4 cross section in FIG. 14 passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, it is focused and collected behind the rear lens portion 41 and in front of the focal point _FADB . It forms a light spot CP3A.

Focus F _ADB means that when a group of horizontal rays parallel to the optical axis AX _Lo passes through the front lens body 20 from the front of the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens unit 41, the rear lens unit 41. It is a focusing point on the optical axis AX _ADB that collects light in the rear.

Similarly, although not shown, the horizontal included in each of the plurality of vertical cross sections (plural vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB ) between the A4-A4 cross section and the B4-B4 cross section in FIG. Even when the light beam group passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, it also collects light behind the rear lens portion 41 and in front of the focal point _FADB to form a focusing point (group).

The group of focusing points such as CP3A formed by condensing the light behind the rear lens portion 41 and in front of the focal point F _ADB is a dotted line on the left side with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB in FIG. As shown, the focused line FL3L is configured.

Further, when the horizontal light group included in the B4-B4 cross section in FIG. 14 passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, it is focused by the focal point _FADB behind the rear lens portion 41 and is a condensing point. Form CP3B.

Further, when the horizontal light group included in the C4-C4 cross section in FIG. 14 passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, the light is focused behind the rear lens portion 41 and behind the focal point _FADB . To form a focusing point CP3C.

Similarly, although not shown, the horizontal included in each of the plurality of vertical cross sections (plural vertical cross sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB ) between the B4-B4 cross section and the C4-C4 cross section in FIG. When the light beam group passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, it collects light behind the rear lens portion 41 and behind the focal point _FADB to form a focusing point (group).

The point cloud such as CP3C formed by condensing the light behind the rear lens portion 41 and behind the focal point F _ADB is a dotted line on the right side with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB in FIG. As shown, the focused line FL3R is configured.

The focused line FL3L and the focused line FL3R are asymmetrical with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB in FIG. This is because the distance between the second incoming light surface 21 and the first light emitting surface 41b through which each horizontal ray group passes differs for each horizontal ray group.

When the light sources 42a to 42c are arranged with respect to the focused lines FL3L and FL3R configured as described above (see FIG. 14), the distance between the light sources 42a to 42c and the focused lines FL3L and FL3R is set for each light source 42a to 42c. Change. For example, the distance between the light source 42a and the condensing point CP3C (focused line FL3R) is the shortest, and the distance between the light source 42c and the condensing point CP3A (focused line FL3L) is the longest. As a result, a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB (the part indicated by the arrow AR1 in FIG. 13) is stretched in the vertical direction, and the luminous intensity is relatively lowered (so-called blurred state).

Next, a configuration for suppressing a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB from being stretched in the vertical direction and the relative decrease in luminous intensity will be described.

As a result of diligent studies, the present inventors have conducted diligent studies to prevent a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB from being stretched in the vertical direction and relatively reducing the luminous intensity, and as a result, the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b. It has been found that by adjusting the curvature for each vertical cross section, it is possible to suppress a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB from being stretched in the vertical direction and the relative decrease in luminosity.

This adjustment is an adjustment for making the focused lines FL3L and FL3R shown in FIG. 14 into the focused lines FL4L and FL4R extending in the vehicle width direction shown in FIG. 11, and is performed using predetermined simulation software.

Next, with reference to FIG. 11, a focused line formed when the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is adjusted for each vertical cross section will be described.

In FIG. 11, the curvature of the A3-A3 cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is the rear of the rear lens portion 41 when the horizontal light group included in the A3-A3 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41. In addition, the first curvature is adjusted (set) so as to condense light in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form a condensing point CP4A.

Similarly, although not shown, the curvature of each of the plurality of vertical sections (multiple vertical sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB ) between the A3-A3 cross section and the B3-B3 cross section also has a plurality of vertical planes. When the horizontal light group included in each passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, the light is focused behind the rear lens portion 41 and in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form a focusing point (group). It is adjusted (set) so as to be.

By adjusting the curvature in this way, the focusing point cloud such as CP4A extends in the vehicle width direction along the reference axis AX2 as shown by the solid line on the left side with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB in FIG. It constitutes the line FL4L.

Further, in FIG. 11, the curvature of the B3-B3 cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is such that when the horizontal light group included in the B3-B3 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, the rear lens portion 41 The second curvature (second curvature> first curvature) is adjusted (set) so as to form a focusing point CP4B by condensing light behind and near the reference axis AX2.

Further, in FIG. 11, the curvature of the C3-C3 cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is such that when the horizontal light group included in the C3-C3 cross section passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, the rear lens portion 41 The third curvature (third curvature> second curvature) is adjusted (set) so as to form a focusing point CP4C by condensing light behind and near the reference axis AX2.

Similarly, although not shown, the curvature of each of the plurality of vertical sections (multiple vertical sections having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo ) between the B3-B3 cross section and the C3-C3 cross section also has a plurality of vertical faces. When the horizontal light group included in each passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, the light is focused behind the rear lens portion 41 and in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form a focusing point (group). It is adjusted (set) so as to be.

By adjusting the curvature in this way, the focusing point cloud such as CP4C extends in the vehicle width direction along the reference axis AX2 as shown by the solid line on the right side with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB in FIG. It constitutes the line FL4R.

When the light sources 42a to 42c are arranged with respect to the focused lines FL4L and FL4R configured as described above (see FIG. 11), the distance between the light sources 42a to 42c and the focused lines FL4L and FL4R is set for each light source 42a to 42c. It does not change and is almost the same. As a result, it is suppressed that a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB (the part indicated by the arrow AR1 in FIG. 13) is stretched in the vertical direction and the luminous intensity is relatively lowered (so-called blurred state). Ru.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, even if the front lens body 20 is arranged in a posture tilted by a predetermined receding angle θ1 as shown in FIG. 11, the luminous intensity of a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB is relative. It is possible to provide a vehicle lamp 10A capable of suppressing a decrease in light intensity (a so-called blurred state).

This is because, as in the first embodiment (see FIG. 9), the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is made different for each vertical cross section.

Specifically, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is such that the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical cross sections (vertical faces) having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB is the front lens body 20. When the light is transmitted through the rear lens portion 41, the light is focused behind the rear lens portion 41 and in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to form focused lines FL4L and FL4R (condensing point group) along the reference axis AX2. This is because it is adjusted (set) for each vertical section.

In other words, the second light input surface 21 and the first light input surface 21 through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical surfaces having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB pass through the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emission surface 41b. This is because the vertical cross section is adjusted so that the shorter the distance from the light emitting surface 41b, the larger the distance.

Further, the first light emitting surface 41b is a curved surface mainly in charge of condensing in the first direction, but also has a curved surface (curved surface in the vertical direction) having a condensing function in the second direction, and the curved surface in the vertical direction is The curvature is adjusted (set) so that the curvature increases in the backward direction of the front lens (from right to left in FIG. 11).

The first light emitting surface 41b may be a free curved surface. For example, in the first light emitting surface 41b, a horizontal ray group (hereinafter referred to as a horizontal ray group B) included in each of a plurality of vertical cross sections (vertical faces) having different tilt angles with respect to the optical axis AX _ADB is a front lens body. When light is transmitted from the front of the 20 through the front lens body 20 and enters the rear lens portion 41, the light is focused near the reference axis AX2 to form focused lines FL4L and FL4R (condensing point group) along the reference axis AX2. As such, it may be a free curved surface whose surface shape is adjusted (set).

The first light emitting surface 41b (free curved surface) can be configured as follows, for example. For example, using predetermined simulation software, the front lens body 20 is transmitted from the front of the front lens body 20 (the second light emitting surface 22, the second light entering surface 21, and the first light emitting surface 41b are transmitted in this order). The reference plane (concentrated point group) is formed so that the horizontal light group B that has entered the rear lens portion 41 concentrates in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 and forms the focused lines FL4L and FL4R (condensing point group) along the reference axis AX2. It can be configured by changing (adjusting) the surface shape of the surface that is the basis of the first light emitting surface 41b, for example, a curved surface that is convex toward the front.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 11, even if the front lens body 20 is arranged in a posture tilted by a predetermined receding angle θ1, it is possible to suppress a relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB. ..

Further, according to the present embodiment, both the second light entering surface 21 and the second light emitting surface 22 are configured as a cylindrical surface having a convex shape toward the front and a cylindrical axis extending in the first direction (). (See FIG. 3), that is, since not only the second light emitting surface 22 but also the second light input surface 21 can be in charge of condensing in the second direction, the second light input surface is a flat surface and condensing in the second direction. Compared with the above-mentioned conventional technique in which only the second light emitting surface is in charge, the wall thickness in the optical axis AX _Lo direction of the front lens body 20 can be reduced while maintaining the light collection rate. This makes it possible to reduce the material cost (cost reduction) of the front lens body 20.

Next, a modification will be described.

In the second embodiment, an example will be described in which the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is made different for each vertical cross section to suppress the relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB. However, it is not limited to this.

For example, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b is made the same in each vertical cross section, and the curvature of at least one of the first light entering surface 41a and the second light entering surface 21 is made different for each vertical cross section. May be good.

For example, when a group of horizontal rays included in each of a plurality of vertical cross sections passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, the light is focused behind the rear lens portion 41 and in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to be a focusing point. The curvature of the vertical cross section (or the first light incoming surface 41a) of the second incoming light surface 21 is adjusted (set) for each vertical cross section so as to form (group). This also makes it possible to suppress the relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB.

In other words, the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical planes having different inclination angles with respect to the optical axis AX _Lo passes through the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light entrance surface 21 (or the first light input surface 41a). The shorter the distance between the second light input surface 21 and the first light exit surface 31b, the larger the distance is adjusted for each vertical cross section.

Further, the second light entrance surface 21 (or the first light input surface 41a) has a curved surface (longitudinal curved surface) having a light collecting function in the second direction, and the vertical curved surface is the receding direction of the front lens (or the receding direction of the front lens). In FIG. 4, the curvature or the light collecting function is increased in the case of the second incoming surface 21 from right to left), and is adjusted (set) so as to be smaller in the case of the first incoming surface 41a.

The second light incoming surface 21 (or the first light incoming surface 41a) may be a free curved surface as in the case of the first light emitting surface 41b.

Further, for example, the curvature of at least one of the vertical cross sections of the first incoming light surface 41a and the second incoming light surface 21 may be different for each vertical cross section together with the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface 41b. For example, when a group of horizontal rays included in each of a plurality of vertical cross sections passes through the front lens body 20 and the rear lens portion 41, the light is focused behind the rear lens portion 41 and in the vicinity of the reference axis AX2 to be a focusing point. The curvatures of the vertical cross sections of the first light emitting surface 31b and the second light entering surface 21 are adjusted (set) for each vertical cross section so as to form (group). This also makes it possible to suppress the relative decrease in the luminous intensity of a part of the light distribution pattern for ADB.

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.

The above embodiments are merely exemplary in all respects. The present invention is not limitedly construed by the description of the above embodiment. The present invention can be practiced in various other forms without departing from its spirit or key features.

10, 10A ... Vehicle lighting equipment, 20 ... Front lens body, 21 ... Second light source surface, 22 ... Second light source surface, 31 ... Rear lens unit, 31a ... First light source surface, 31a1 ... Central light source surface, 31a2 ... ambient light incoming surface, 31b ... first light emitting surface, 31c ... edge portion, 31d ... reflective surface, 31e ... extension surface, 31f ... peripheral reflective surface, 40 ... light source, 41 ... rear lens portion, 41a ... first input Light surface, 41b ... First light emission surface, 42a to 42c ... Light source

Claims (7)

The front lens body, the rear lens portion arranged behind the front lens body, and the rear lens portion arranged behind the rear lens portion are transmitted through the rear lens portion and the front lens body in this order and irradiated forward. In a vehicle lamp provided with a light source that emits light that forms a light distribution pattern for a low beam.
The rear lens unit is a lens unit that is in charge of condensing light from the light source that passes through the rear lens unit in at least the first direction, and the light from the light source enters the rear lens unit. The light surface includes a first light emitting surface from which light from the light source entering the rear lens portion is emitted, and an edge portion defining a cut-off line of the low beam light distribution pattern.
The front lens body is a lens unit that is in charge of condensing light from the rear lens unit that passes through the front lens body in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and light from the rear lens unit is the light from the rear lens unit. A second light incoming surface that enters the front lens body and a second light emitting surface that emits light from the rear lens portion that enters the front lens body are included.
The front lens body is arranged in a posture tilted at a predetermined receding angle.
At least one of the curvature of the vertical section of the first light emitting surface and the curvature of the vertical section of the second light entering surface is different for each vertical section .
In the vertical cross section, when the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces having different inclination angles enters the front lens body from the second light emitting surface, the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces is included. It is a cross section of the first light emitting surface or a cross section of the second light entering surface that is transmitted.
The edge portion collects light in the rear lens portion when a group of horizontal rays included in each of the plurality of vertical planes emits light from the second light emitting surface and enters the rear lens portion from the first light emitting surface. It is provided along the focused line formed by shining,
The curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light input surface increases as the distance between the second light input surface and the first light exit surface through which the horizontal ray group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes is short. , Vehicle lighting equipment adjusted for each vertical section . At least one of the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface and the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light entering surface is adjusted for each vertical cross section so that the focused line is a focused line extending in the vehicle width direction. The vehicle lighting fixture according to claim 1 . The curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface becomes larger as the distance between the second light entering surface and the first light emitting surface through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes is shorter. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1 , which is adjusted for each vertical section. The front lens body, the rear lens portion arranged behind the front lens body, and the rear lens portion arranged behind the rear lens portion are transmitted through the rear lens portion and the front lens body in this order and irradiated forward. In a vehicle lamp provided with a plurality of light sources that emit light forming a light distribution pattern for ADB.
The rear lens unit is a lens unit that is in charge of condensing light from the light source that passes through the rear lens unit in at least the first direction, and the light from the light source enters the rear lens unit. It includes a light surface and a first light emitting surface from which light emitted from the light source that has entered the rear lens portion is emitted.
The front lens body is a lens unit that is in charge of condensing light from the rear lens unit that passes through the front lens body in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, and light from the rear lens unit is the light from the rear lens unit. A second light incoming surface that enters the front lens body and a second light emitting surface that emits light from the rear lens portion that enters the front lens body are included.
The front lens body is arranged in a posture tilted at a predetermined receding angle.
At least one of the curvature of the vertical section of the first light emitting surface, the curvature of the vertical section of the first incoming surface, and the curvature of the vertical section of the second incoming surface is different for each vertical section .
In the vertical cross section, when the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces having different inclination angles enters the front lens body from the second light emitting surface, the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces is included. A cross section of the first light emitting surface, or a cross section of the first light entering surface or the second light entering surface, which is transmitted.
The plurality of light sources are focused lines formed by condensing the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical planes behind the rear lens portion when the horizontal light group is transmitted through the front lens body and the rear lens portion. Provided along the
The curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light input surface increases as the distance between the second light input surface and the first light exit surface through which the horizontal ray group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes is short. , Vehicle lighting equipment adjusted for each vertical section . At least one of the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface, the curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light entering surface, and the curvature of the vertical cross section of the second light entering surface is such that the focused line extends in the vehicle width direction. The vehicle lighting fixture according to claim 4 , which is adjusted for each vertical cross section so as to be a focused line. The curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light emitting surface becomes larger as the distance between the second light entering surface and the first light emitting surface through which the horizontal light group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes is shorter. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 4 , which is adjusted for each vertical section. The curvature of the vertical cross section of the first light input surface increases as the distance between the second light input surface and the first light exit surface through which the horizontal ray group included in each of the plurality of vertical faces passes is short. The vehicle lighting equipment according to claim 4 , which is adjusted for each vertical section.

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