Light projection lens and mobile object
The light projection lens addresses the issue of non-uniform illumination in conventional vehicle lighting by shaping the light distribution to achieve a uniform and elongated light pattern on the road surface using a concave and diffusion section.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2020-01-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-11
AI Technical Summary
Conventional lighting devices for mobile objects, such as vehicles, fail to illuminate road surfaces uniformly and often produce non-uniform light distribution, especially when integrated into side mirrors, which are elongated in shape.
A light projection lens that controls light distribution to achieve a long, uniform light intensity on the road surface by using a concave section and diffusion section to shape the light emitted from a light source, such as an LED, ensuring even illumination.
The light projection lens ensures that the light emitted has a long shape and uniform intensity on the illuminated surface, effectively addressing the non-uniformity issues of conventional lighting devices.
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Abstract
Description
Technical field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a light projection lens and a mobile object that includes the light projection lens. background
[0002] A lighting device is generally known which is intended for a mobile object, such as a vehicle, and which emits light towards a road surface all around the mobile object (see, for example, patent literature (PTL) 1).
[0003] PTL1 discloses, for example, a lighting device that is provided in a side-view mirror and illuminates the area around the legs of a passenger outside of a vehicle.
[0004] US Patent 2018 / 0340672A1 describes a lens with a top surface having a curved section with a changing curvature in a direction extending away from a central axis of the lens, and a bottom surface with a concave section located on the central axis of the lens. The concave section of the bottom surface includes an inlet located in a lower region of the concave section and configured to receive light emitted by a light-emitting diode chip, as well as an upper end surface located in an upper region of the concave section. The concave section has a width that tapers in a direction extending away from the inlet. The upper end surface is not planar.
[0005] WO 2014 / 005972A1 describes a device for detecting the position of the driver of a vehicle or of a part of the driver, in particular the eyes, with a heads-up display comprising an image-generating device with a first light source comprising an optical device and a partially translucent mirror; a camera designed to take an image; and a second light source outside the image-generating device, in particular an infrared light source.
[0006] US Patent 6,473,238 B1 describes lens systems and an array of lenses for reproducing, capturing, and displaying three-dimensional images. These arrays can generally be divided into two categories. The first type of array uses air as a low-refractive-index material. This type of array can be used, for example, in backlit displays, electronic image recognition, machine vision, and real-time 3D video capture. A second type of array uses a fluoropolymer as a low-refractive-index material and transmits most of the incident light to the image plane.
[0007] US 2015 / 0 260 943 A1 describes a lens module comprising a lens carrier and a lens group received by the lens carrier. The lens carrier includes an aperture plate, a main body extending downward from the aperture plate, and a receiving chamber formed by the aperture plate and the main body, wherein the aperture plate has a light aperture and the main body has an inner surface facing the receiving chamber. The lens group comprises a first lens resting against the aperture plate to provide initial alignment accuracy, a second lens stacked on top of the first lens and spaced from the inner surface of the main body, a third lens stacked on top of the second lens and spaced from the inner surface of the main body, and a fourth lens stacked on top of the third lens and resting against the inner surface of the main body.
[0008] US Patent 2016 / 0054 175 A1 describes an electronic device with light sensors. The electronic device may have an electronic housing containing a display. The display may have a transparent layer, such as a transparent display cover layer, a thin-film transistor layer, or a color filter layer. An opaque masking layer, such as a layer of black ink, may be used to cover an inner surface of the transparent layer in an inactive area of the display. List of citation points for patent literature
[0009] PTL 1: Publication of the unexamined Japanese patent application No. 2015-71386 Summary of the invention: Technical problem
[0010] A conventional lighting device, such as one intended for a mobile object, like a vehicle, and emitting light to illuminate a road surface, should illuminate the road surface uniformly. Additionally, if the lighting device is integrated into a side mirror of the mobile object and illuminates the road surface along the length of the mobile object, the shape of the area on the illuminated surface, such as the road surface, where the lighting device shines, should be elongated, since the mobile object has an elongated shape in a direction parallel to its direction of travel.
[0011] The present disclosure provides a light projection lens and the like, which enables the light emitted by a light source to have a long shape and uniform light intensity at a point on or at an illumination surface where the light shines. Solution to the problem
[0012] The problem is solved by a light projection lens with the features disclosed in claim 1 and by a mobile object with the features disclosed in claim 10. Further embodiments are defined in the dependent claims. Advantageous effects of the invention
[0013] A light projection lens and the like according to the present disclosure enables light emitted from a light source to have a long shape and uniform light intensity at a point on or at an illumination surface where the light shines. Brief description of the drawing Fig. Figure 1 is a front view of a mobile object according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a top view of the mobile object according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 is an enlarged side view of a side-view mirror that the mobile object includes according to the embodiment. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a light projection lens according to the embodiment along the in Fig. 3 shown line IV-IV. Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic top view of housings attached to the mobile object according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 6 is a bottom view of the light projection lens according to the embodiment. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the light projection lens according to the embodiment along the in Fig. 6 shown line VII-VII. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the light projection lens according to the embodiment along the line shown. Fig. 6 shown line VIII-VIII. Fig. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the light distribution characteristic of light exiting the light projection lens according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the light projection lens according to the embodiment, wherein a section enclosed by a dashed line X is enlarged. Description of embodiments
[0014] Embodiments according to the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawing. Note that the embodiments described below each show a general or specific example. The numerical values, shapes, materials, structural elements, as well as the arrangement and connection of the structural elements and the like, as described in the following embodiments, are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. In addition, those structural elements in the following embodiments that are not listed in one of the independent claims defining the most generic part of the inventive concept are described as optional structural elements.
[0015] Note that the figures in the drawings are schematic diagrams and do not necessarily represent a strict and accurate depiction. The structural elements in these schematic diagrams may be emphasized and / or omitted and / or proportionally adjusted to illustrate the present disclosure. Therefore, the structural elements may differ in their actual shapes, positional relationships, and proportions. In the figures, the same reference symbols are assigned to essentially the same structural elements, and redundant descriptions have been omitted or simplified.
[0016] Furthermore, the direction relative to the Z-axis is, for example, a vertical direction. In some embodiments, the positive direction of the Z-axis can be specified as "pointing upwards," while the negative direction of the Z-axis can be specified as "pointing downwards." The directions relative to the Y-axis and the directions relative to the X-axis are mutually orthogonal in a plane (horizontal plane) perpendicular to the Z-axis. The direction relative to the Y-axis can be specified as the side of a mobile object. The direction relative to the X-axis can be specified as the direction in which the mobile object travels (direction of travel).
[0017] Additionally, in the following embodiments, a term indicating a direction, such as "horizontal direction," may be used. In this case, "horizontal direction" includes not only the case where the direction is exactly horizontal, but also the case where there is a manufacturing and installation-related deviation of approximately a few percent.
[0018] Furthermore, in the following embodiments, an expression can be used that indicates a relationship, such as "coincide with". In this case, the expression "coincide with" includes not only the case in which one object coincides exactly with another, but also the case in which there is a manufacturing and installation-related deviation of approximately a few percent. Design / Construction
[0019] Fig. Figure 1 is a front view of a mobile object 200 according to an embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a top view of the mobile object 200 according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 is an enlarged side view of a side view mirror 210, which the mobile object 200 includes according to the embodiment. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a light projection lens 130 according to the embodiment along the in Fig. 3 shown line IV-IV.
[0020] The light projection lens 130 according to the embodiment is an optical element intended for the mobile object 200, such as a vehicle, a motorcycle, or a bicycle. The light projection lens 130 controls or regulates a light distribution characteristic of light (infrared light) 300, which is emitted from a light source 120 onto a road surface surrounding the mobile object 200.
[0021] The mobile object 200 includes a light source unit 100, which comprises: the light source 120; the light projection lens 130, which covers the light source 120; and a camera 190. According to the embodiment, the mobile object 200 includes a light source unit 100 that is provided in a side-view mirror 210. The side-view mirror 210 is provided on each of the two sides of the mobile object 200.
[0022] The mobile object 200 includes the light source unit 100 on the outside (outer surface) of the mobile object 200. In particular, the mobile object 200 includes the light source unit 100 mounted in a position outside the body or chassis of the mobile object 200 or close to it in a horizontal direction that includes the front end, the rear end and the sides of the body or chassis, and in a position in which the light source 120 (see Fig. 4), which is included in the light source unit 100, can emit the light 300 onto a road surface surrounding the mobile object 200 when the light source 120 emits the light 300 downwards. In this embodiment, the light source unit 100 is provided in the side-view mirror 210 of the mobile object 200. In particular, the light source unit 100 is arranged at the lower end of the side-view mirror 210.
[0023] Note that regardless of the fact that in Fig. 1. The mobile object 200 shown includes the light source unit 100 in each of the two side view mirrors 210, and the mobile object 200 can also include a single light source unit 100 in one of the two side view mirrors 210.
[0024] Furthermore, the exterior of the mobile object 200 not only refers to the outer surface of the mobile object 200 in the horizontal direction, which includes the front and rear ends and the left and right ends of the mobile object 200, but also includes outer surfaces of the sides of the body or chassis, such as a side surface of the side-view mirror 210, a lower surface of the side-view mirror 210, and an outer surface of a door that includes the mobile object 200. Additionally, the mobile object 200 with the light source unit 100 on its exterior includes not only a housing in which the light source unit 100 is located on the exterior of the mobile object 200, but also a housing in which the light source unit 100 is located near the exterior of the mobile object 200, which includes the interior of the mobile object 200.
[0025] In this embodiment, the mobile object 200, when viewed from above, has an elongated shape in its direction relative to the X-axis. In other words, the mobile object 200 is long in one direction of travel.
[0026] The light source unit 100 is contained within the mobile object 200 and emits light 300 towards a road surface surrounding the mobile object 200. The light 300 emitted by the light source unit 100 is, for example, infrared light. The light source unit 100 emits the light 300 to capture an image of the road surface surrounding the mobile object 200 with a camera 190 that can detect infrared light. In particular, the light source unit 100 emits infrared light in such a way that the camera 190 can capture an image of the road surface even at night or in similar situations where there is insufficient ambient light.
[0027] The light source unit 100 includes a light source section 180 and the camera 190.
[0028] The light source section 180 includes the housing 110, the light source 120, the light projection lens 130, a substrate 140 and connections 160 and 161.
[0029] Housing 110 is a housing that holds the light source 120. Housing 110 includes, for example, a container 111 and a cover 112.
[0030] Container 111 is a box-like body that encloses and holds the light source 120. Container 111 has an opening formed in its upper surface, and the cover 112 is arranged to cover the opening.
[0031] The cover 112 is a lid for covering the opening formed on the top of the container 111. The housing 110 includes an attachment 113, which is to be attached to the mobile object 200. In particular, the attachment 113 is formed on the cover 112.
[0032] Mounting 113 is a connecting section used to attach the light source section 180 to the mobile object 200 (in particular, the side-viewing mirror 210). Mounting 113 includes, for example, a threaded hole into which a screw 220 is screwed. The light source unit 100 is attached to the mobile object 200 by means of the screw 220, which is fastened to mounting 113.
[0033] The material used for the housing 110 is not subject to any specific restrictions. For example, a resin material, such as acrylic or polycarbonate, or a metallic material can be used. Note that the container 111 and the light projection lens 130 can be made using the same material or different materials.
[0034] Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic top view of the housings 110, which are attached to the mobile object 200 according to the embodiment. In particular, Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic top view of the two side-view mirrors 210 intended for the mobile object 200. Each of the two side-view mirrors 210 includes, respectively, the light projection lenses 130 and 130a and the housings 110 and 110a.
[0035] Note that a light projection lens and housing in the negative direction of the Y-axis are the light projection lens 130 and the housing 110 respectively, while a light projection lens and housing in the positive direction of the Y-axis are the light projection lens 130a and the housing 110a respectively.
[0036] Will the mobile object be 200, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, viewed from above, for example the two housings 110 and 110a, which are arranged on respective sides of the mobile object 200, are asymmetrical relative to an imaginary line 500, which, for example, passes through the center of the mobile object 200, as in Figure 5. Fig. 2 is shown, runs through it and is parallel to the direction of travel of the mobile object 200.
[0037] In contrast, when the mobile object 200 is viewed from above, the two light projection lenses 130 and 130a, which are arranged on the respective sides of the mobile object 200, exhibit, for example, a line symmetry relative to the imaginary line 500 passing through the center of the mobile object 200, as in Fig. 2 is shown, runs through it and is parallel to the direction of travel of the mobile object 200.
[0038] For example, a first concave section 133 and a second concave section 134, which includes the light projection lens 130, and a first concave section 133a and a second concave section 134a, which includes the light projection lens 130a, have line symmetry relative to the imaginary line 500.
[0039] Light source 120 is a light source that emits light 300. Light source 120 includes a solid-state semiconductor light source, such as a light-emitting diode (LED). Fig. Figure 4 schematically shows an LED as a light source 120, which is mounted on the substrate 140 and emits the light 300 in a state in which the LED is sealed with resin and the like.
[0040] In this embodiment, the light emitted by the light source 120 and the light exiting the light projection lens 130 are called light 300.
[0041] Light 300, for example, is infrared light (near-infrared) with a peak wavelength of at least 800 nm and at most 1000 nm. Light 300 can, for example, be infrared light with a peak wavelength of at least 930 nm and at most 950 nm.
[0042] The light projection lens 130 covers the light source 120 and allows the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 to pass through it. Specifically, the light projection lens 130 is an optical element arranged in the housing 110 such that it covers the lower part of the light source 120. The light projection lens 130 controls the distribution of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120. Additionally, an outer surface 132 (the lower surface of the light projection lens 130 in this embodiment), which is a surface of the light projection lens 130 from which light emerges, is arranged such that the outer surface 132 is exposed to the outer surface of the mobile object 200 and, in particular, to the lower surface of the side-view mirror 210. Furthermore, the light projection lens 130 and the light source 120 are spaced apart from each other.
[0043] The light projection lens 130 consists, for example, of a glass material or acrylic with light transmission (for example, with a light transmission that allows at least 90% of the light 300 to pass through) or of a resin material with light transmission, such as polycarbonate.
[0044] Additionally, the light projection lens 130 has a light transmittance that allows, for example, infrared light, which is the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, to pass through, but not visible light. In particular, the light projection lens 130 allows, for example, at least 80% of infrared light with a wavelength of at least 900 nm and at most 1000 nm to pass through, but does not allow visible light with a wavelength of at least 400 nm and at most 780 nm to pass through (for example, at least 90% of the visible light is blocked). One material for the light projection lens 130 that has such optical properties is, for example, acrylic resin.
[0045] Additionally, the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are attached to the mobile object 200 such that the optical axis of the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 is directed towards the rear of the mobile object 200. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are, for example, attached to the mobile object 200 such that the center of the area 410 illuminated by the light 300 is positioned behind the side-view mirror 210, on which the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are attached, or in other words, positioned in the negative direction of the X-axis. The light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 can be arranged such that the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 is directed towards the rear of the mobile object 200; alternatively, the mobile object 200 can also include an optical element that reflects or refracts the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 such that the optical axis of the light 300 is directed towards the rear of the mobile object 200.
[0046] In addition, the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are, for example, attached to the mobile object 200 in such a way that the optical axis of the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 can be directed away from the mobile object 200. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are attached to the mobile object 200 such that the light 300 is emitted towards one side of the mobile object 200 and not directly below the side-view mirror 210, to which the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are attached. The light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 can be arranged such that the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 is directed away from the mobile object 200; alternatively, the mobile object 200 can also include an optical element that reflects or refracts the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 such that the optical axis of the light 300 is directed away from the mobile object 200.
[0047] Note that in this embodiment, the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are arranged such that the center of the light source 120 and the center of the light projection lens 130 overlap when the light projection lens 130 is viewed from above. This means that the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are arranged such that the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 passes through the center (center of the inner surface 131 and center of the outer surface 132) of the light projection lens 130.
[0048] The structure of the light projection lens 130 is described in detail below.
[0049] The substrate 140 is a substrate on which the light source 120 is arranged. In particular, the light source 120 is mounted on or to the substrate 140. The substrate 140 is in contact with an edge of the light projection lens 130. The substrate 140 is also in contact with the housing 110. In this embodiment, the substrate 140, the housing 110 (in particular the container 111 that contains the housing), and the light projection lens 130 are in direct contact with each other.
[0050] The material used for substrate 140 is not subject to any specific restrictions. For example, a metallic substrate, a ceramic substrate, a resin substrate, or the like can be used. Note that substrate 140 can be flexible or rigid.
[0051] Terminals 160 and 161, for example, are terminals that supply electrical power to the light source 120, which is supplied from an external power source. Terminals 160 and 161 are electrically connected, for example, using metallic wiring, which is not shown.
[0052] Additionally, the connector includes pins 162 for electrical connection to the wiring formed on the substrate 140. Note that the wiring is not shown. The pins 162 are, for example, soldered and attached to the substrate.
[0053] Additionally, the pins 162 are arranged in a space formed in a second concave section 134, which includes the inner surface 131 of the light projection lens 130.
[0054] The connection 160 is designed to penetrate the substrate 140 from the rear surface 142 of the substrate 140 to the mounting surface 141 of the substrate 140, on which the light source 120 is mounted.
[0055] The camera 190 is a device for capturing an image of a road surface surrounding the mobile object 200. For example, the camera 190 captures an image of the road surface where the light source 120 shines with light 300. As described above, the light source 120 is a light source that emits infrared light as light 300. The camera 190 detects the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, or more specifically, the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 that is reflected away from the road surface, in order to capture an image of the road surface. Naturally, the camera 190 can also capture an image during the day without the light 300, using ambient light in the visible spectrum, such as sunlight.
[0056] Note that the camera 190 can be positioned closer to the mobile object 200 than the light source 120. In this embodiment, the camera 190 is positioned on the side of the negative direction of the Y-axis and between the light source 120 (in particular, the light source section 180) and the body or chassis of the mobile object 200. In this way, the light source 120 is positioned further away from the mobile object 200 compared to a case where the light source 120 is positioned closer to the mobile object 200 than the camera 190. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the loss of light 300 emitted by the light source 120 when the light 300 strikes the mobile object 200.
[0057] The camera 190 includes an image sensor, such as a CCD image sensor (Charge Coupled Device CCD) and a CMOS image sensor (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor CMOS).
[0058] Next, the structure of the light projection lens 130 will be described in detail using Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 to Fig. 10 described.
[0059] Fig. Figure 6 is a bottom view of the light projection lens 130 according to the embodiment. Fig. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the light projection lens 130 according to the embodiment along the line shown. Fig. 6 shown line VII-VII. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the light projection lens 130 according to the embodiment along the line shown. Fig. 6 shown line VIII-VIII.
[0060] Note that, although not shown, the center of the light source 120 and the center of the light projection lens 130, as in Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the optical axes of the light source 120 and the optical projection lens 130 overlap when viewed from above. This means that the center of the light source 120 and the center of the optical projection lens 130 are arranged such that the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 passes through the center of the optical projection lens 130 (center of the inner surface 131 and center of the outer surface 132). Additionally, the optical axis of the light source 120 and the optical axis of the optical projection lens 130 overlap and are parallel to the Z-axis.
[0061] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the light projection lens 130 is, for example, a circular lens. Note that the shape and size of the light projection lens 130 in the front view (i.e., when looking at the Fig. (6 surface shown) are not subject to any special restrictions. In the present embodiment, the diameter of the light projection lens 130 is equal to 18 mm.
[0062] As in Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the light projection lens 130 has the inner surface 131 and the outer surface 132.
[0063] The inner surface 131 is a surface of the light projection lens 130, at which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 enters.
[0064] The inner surface 131 includes the first concave section 133, the second concave section 134, a diffusion section 135 and a level 136.
[0065] The first concave section 133 is a section of the inner surface 131 that is recessed in a direction in which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 enters.
[0066] Additionally, the first concave section 133, as shown by the dashed line in Fig. Figure 6 shows a cross-section perpendicular to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 (in the direction of the Z-axis in this embodiment), revealing an elliptical shape. Note that the elliptical shape can be not only oval but also a rectangle with rounded corners.
[0067] As in Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, a cross-section parallel to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 and a cross-section perpendicular to the cross-section have a difference in the radius of curvature in at least one section of the first concave section 133, which is contained in the inner surface 131.
[0068] The light projection lens 130 is attached to the mobile object 200 in such a way that the longitudinal direction (towards the X-axis in the embodiment) of the mobile object 200 coincides with the short-axis direction of the first concave section 133 having the elliptical shape, and in contrast, the width direction (towards the Y-axis) of the mobile object 200 coincides with the long-axis direction of the first concave section 133 having the elliptical shape.
[0069] Additionally, in a cross-section of the first concave section 133 perpendicular to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, a cross-section taken at a first position and a cross-section taken at a second position exhibit a difference in the ratio of a short axis (axis parallel to the X-axis in the embodiment) to a long axis (axis parallel to the Y-axis in the embodiment) of the elliptical shape. The second position differs from the first position in the direction of the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120.
[0070] The second concave section 134 is a recessed section in the inner surface 131 to provide space for the pins 162 such that the connection 160 is attached to the substrate 140. The second concave section 134 is formed in the diffusion section 135. In particular, the diffusion section 135 includes the second concave section 134, which is recessed in the direction in which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 enters.
[0071] The diffusion section 135 diffuses the light emitted by the light source 120 to 300.
[0072] Fig. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the light distribution characteristic of the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 according to the embodiment. Note that in Fig. Figure 9 shows that the horizontal axis represents a light distribution angle (degrees), while the vertical axis represents the light intensity (optional intensity). Additionally, it shows... Fig. Figure 9 shows the light distribution characteristics of the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 with a solid line, and the light distribution characteristics of light exiting a lens corresponding to a comparison example, such as a common convex lens, etc., with a dash-dot line. Additionally, it shows Fig. Figure 9, with a dashed line, indicates target values that specify the light distribution characteristics to be achieved. Furthermore, the figure shown in Fig. 9. Light distribution characteristics of the light 300 in the YZ plane.
[0073] The light distribution characteristics of the light source 120, which in the embodiment and the comparative example according to the illustration in Fig. The following are used in section 9: (i) the light has maximum intensity when the light distribution angle is 0°; (ii) the light has at least 50% of its maximum intensity when the light distribution angle is between 60° and 70°; and (iii) the light has at least 5% of its maximum intensity when the light distribution angle is between 75° and 85°. For example, the half-beam angle of the light emitted by light source 120 is 150°.
[0074] The light 300 emitted by the light source 120 can have a luminous intensity that is uniform on a road surface illuminated by the light 300. For this reason, the luminous intensity can decrease as the light distribution angle approaches 0°, while the luminous intensity can increase as the light distribution angle approaches 90° or -90°, as the target values in Fig. 9. This makes it possible for the light 300 to illuminate a road surface with a uniform light intensity without any problems, for example if the direction of the light distribution angle of 0° is equivalent to a direction perpendicular to the road surface.
[0075] In this case, for the lens as described in the comparison example, the light intensity increases as the light distribution angle approaches 0°, while the light intensity decreases as the light distribution angle approaches 90° or -90°. Under these conditions, light emitted by the lens as described in the comparison example cannot illuminate a road surface with a light intensity that is uniform at every angle.
[0076] In contrast, the corresponding decrease is in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, where the light projection lens 130 is used, the light intensity decreases as the light distribution angle approaches 0°, while the light intensity increases as the light distribution angle approaches 90° or -90°, as shown in the target values. Accordingly, the use of the light projection lens 130 allows light to readily illuminate a road surface with a uniform light intensity when the direction of the light distribution angle of 0° is equivalent to a direction perpendicular to the road surface.
[0077] Note that in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the peak 600 occurs close to the light distribution angles of 60° and -60°. The peaks 600 are caused by the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, which does not enter from the first concave section 133, but from the circumferential section of the first concave section 133 (diffusion section 135 in this embodiment) and exits at the outer surface 132.
[0078] In connection with the present application, it has been found that the light intensity of the peaks 600 can be reduced by using the diffusion section 135, which has a light-diffusionable surface instead of a flat surface without light diffusion capability.
[0079] As a result, when viewed from the optical axis in the direction of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, the inner surface 131 includes the first concave section 133 in the central section and the diffusion section 135 around the first concave section 133 for diffusing the light 300 emitted by the light source 120.
[0080] Fig. Figure 10 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the light projection lens 130 according to the embodiment, where a Fig. Section 8 enclosed by a dashed line X is enlarged.
[0081] In a cross-section parallel to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, the diffusion section 135, for example, exhibits undulations.
[0082] Additionally, when viewed from the optical axis in the direction of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 (in this embodiment, when viewed from the XY plane), the diffusion section 135 is annular and surrounds the first concave section 133. Furthermore, the corrugations include vertices 700 that are concentric within the diffusion section 135. Similarly, the corrugations include troughs 710 that are concentric within the diffusion section 135.
[0083] Note that the size of a corrugation is not subject to any specific limitation as long as the light can diffuse 300. The grid spacing P between the vertices 700 is, for example, 0.5 mm. Additionally, the depth D (from a vertex 700 to a depression 710) is, for example, 0.046 mm. The vertex 700 and the depression 710 can also be pointed or rounded. The radius of curvature of each vertex 700 and each depression 710 is 0.3 mm in this embodiment.
[0084] Additionally, the substrate 140 and the diffusion section 135 are as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the diffusion section 130 and the substrate 140 are spaced apart. This serves to reduce the contact area between the light projection lens 130 and the substrate 140, thereby decreasing the transfer of heat generated by the light source 120 to the light projection lens 130 via the substrate 140. For this reason, the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 enters the diffusion section 135 and not the first concave section 133. Consequently, the diffusion section 135, which has a light diffusion capacity, can reduce the transfer of heat generated by the light source 120 to the light projection lens 130 via the substrate 140 and can reduce the intensity of the light emitted by the light source 120. Fig. Reduce the peak shown in section 9 by 600.
[0085] Note that the radius of curvature of a section connecting the diffusion section 135 and the first concave section 133 can be small from the perspective of the light distribution characteristics. For example, the radius of curvature of the section connecting the diffusion section 135 and the first concave section 133 can be at most 0.05 mm.
[0086] The embodiment will now be described based on Fig. 7 is described again. Level 136 is a section that connects the first concave section 133 and the diffusion section 135. Level 136 is a section that extends in its own direction from the edge of the first concave section 133 in the direction of the Z-axis and is connected to the diffusion section 135.
[0087] The outer surface 132 is a surface from which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, which entered at the inner surface 131, exits.
[0088] The outer surface 132 and the first concave section 133 exhibit a difference in the radius of curvature in at least one section of the outer surface 132 and the first concave section 133 in a cross-sectional view of a plane (in the embodiment of the in Fig. 7 or Fig. 8 (cross-section shown) which includes the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120. In other words, in a cross-section parallel to the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, the outer surface 132 and the first concave section 133 contained in the inner surface 131 differ in at least one section of the outer surface 132 and the first concave section 133 in the cross-section parallel to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120. In this embodiment, the outer surface 132 and the first concave section 133 have very different radii of curvature in the plane which contains the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120.
[0089] Additionally, how the embodiment is described in Fig. Figure 9 shows that the light 300, which has emerged from the outer surface 132, is less in quantity in the direction relative to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 (at a light distribution angle of 0°) than in a direction different from the direction relative to the optical axis of the light 300 (for example, in a direction greater or less than the light distribution angle of 0°).
[0090] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, for example, the difference in the radius of curvature between a section of the inner surface 131 (especially at the first concave section 133) and a section of the outer surface 132, through which the first optical path 130 passes, is greater than the difference in the radius of curvature between a section of the inner surface 131 (especially at the first concave section 133) and a section of the outer surface 132, through which the second optical path 320 passes. The first optical path 310 is an optical path in the light projection lens 130 through which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 passes, while the second optical path 320 is an optical path in the light projection lens 130 through which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 passes, and is closer to the perimeter of the light projection lens 130 than the first optical path 310.In other words, in a cross-section of the light projection lens 130 (in the present embodiment of the one in . Fig. 7 cross-section shown), which is perpendicular to the direction of the short axis of the first concave section 133 having an elliptical shape, is the absolute value of a second derivative value of a virtual curve corresponding to the inner surface 131 (in particular the first concave section 133), in the circumferential section of the light projection lens 130 smaller than in the central section of the light projection lens 130.
[0091] In this embodiment, the radius of curvature R of the outer surface 132 remains constant at approximately 18 mm, whereas the radius of curvature of the inner surface 131 varies depending on its position. Therefore, the difference in radius of curvature between a section of the first concave section 133 and a section of the outer surface 132 where the optical path 310 passes through (where the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 passes through) is greater than the difference in radius of curvature, for example, between a section of the first concave section 133 and a section of the outer surface 132 where the second optical path 320 passes. Additionally, the absolute value of a second derivative of a virtual curve (in particular, the curve of the first concave section 133, as in Fig. 7), which corresponds to the first concave section 133, for example, in the circumferential section of the light projection lens 130 is smaller than in the central section of the light projection lens 130. This allows the light 300 passing through the central section of the light projection lens 130 to exit the light projection lens 130 more strongly towards the outside, or in other words away from the central section of the light projection lens 130, as a result of the refraction occurring in the light projection lens 130, compared to the light 300 passing through the circumferential section of the light projection lens 130. Effects and the like
[0092] As described above, the light projection lens 130 comprises: (i) the inner surface 131, at which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 enters and which includes the first concave section 133, which is recessed in the direction in which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 enters; and (ii) the outer surface 132, at which the light 300, having entered at the inner surface 131, exits. In a cross-section parallel to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, the outer surface 132 and the first concave section 133 contained in the inner surface 131 have a difference in the radius of curvature in at least one section of the outer surface 132 and the first concave section 133. In a cross-section perpendicular to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, the first concave section 133 has an elliptical shape.The light 300 that emerges at the outer surface 132 is less in quantity in the direction relative to the optical axis than in a direction different from that relative to the optical axis than in the direction relative to the light 300 emitted by the light source 120.
[0093] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the difference in the radius of curvature between the inner surface 131 and the outer surface 132 allows the light 300 emitted from the outer surface 132 to be less abundant in the direction of the light 300 relative to the optical axis (at a light distribution angle of 0°) than in a direction different from that direction (for example, in a direction greater or less than the light distribution angle of 0°). Accordingly, the use of the light projection lens 130 allows the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 to have a long shape and uniform light intensity at a point on or at an illuminated surface (for example, a road surface) illuminated by the light 300.
[0094] Additionally, for example, in a cross-section of the first concave section 133 perpendicular to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, a cross-section taken at a first position and a cross-section taken at a second position exhibit a difference in the ratio of the short axis to the long axis of the elliptical shape. The second position differs from the first position in the direction relative to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120.
[0095] This results in a different direction for the light 300 exiting the outer surface 132, corresponding to the position on the inner surface 131 where the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 enters. Accordingly, it is possible to realize the light projection lens 130, which can decrease the light intensity when the light distribution angle decreases and increase the light intensity when the light distribution angle increases, by appropriately adjusting the proportions of the short and long axes of the elliptical shape.
[0096] Additionally, for example, a difference in the radius of curvature between a section of the inner surface 131 and a section of the outer surface 132, through which the first optical path 310 passes, is greater than a difference in the radius of curvature between a section of the inner surface 131 and a section of the outer surface 132, through which the second optical path 320 passes. The first optical path 310 is an optical path in the light projection lens 130 through which the light emitted by the light source 120 passes, while the second optical path 320 is an optical path in the light projection lens 130 through which the light emitted by the light source 120 passes, and is closer to the perimeter of the light projection lens 130 than the first optical path 310.
[0097] This makes it possible to realize the light projection lens 130, which can reduce the light intensity when the light distribution angle decreases, and which can increase the light intensity when the light distribution angle increases.
[0098] Additionally, for example, in a cross-section of the light projection lens 130 perpendicular to the direction of the short axis of the first concave section 133 having the elliptical shape, the absolute value of a second derivative value of a virtual curve corresponding to the inner surface 131 in the circumferential section of the light projection lens 130 is smaller than in the central section of the light projection lens 130.
[0099] This makes it possible to realize the light projection lens 130, which can reduce the light intensity when the light distribution angle decreases, and which can increase the light intensity when the light distribution angle increases.
[0100] Additionally, when viewed from the optical axis in the direction of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, the inner surface 131 includes, for example: (i) the first concave section 133 in the central section; and (ii) the diffusion section 135, which diffuses the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 around the first concave section 133.
[0101] This makes it possible to adjust the intensity of the Fig. to reduce the peak 600 shown in 9, which occurs when the diffusion section 135 has no light diffusion capability.
[0102] In addition, the diffusion section 135 exhibits, for example, undulations in the cross-section parallel to the optical axis of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120.
[0103] For example, if embossing or stamping is performed on the diffusion section 135 and the diffusion section 135 therefore exhibits light diffusion capability (light scattering property), it is possible to reduce the intensity of the tip 600. In such a case, however, a larger amount of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 is reflected away from the diffusion section 135.
[0104] In contrast, the corrugations of the diffusion section 135 can refract the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 and diffuse the light 300. Accordingly, the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 can readily exit the outer surface 132 without being reflected away from the diffusion section 135.
[0105] Additionally, when viewed from the optical axis in the direction of the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, the diffusion section 135 is, for example, ring-shaped and surrounds the first concave section 133. The apexes 700 of the undulations are, for example, concentric in the diffusion section 135.
[0106] The diffusion section 135, which is annular and surrounds the first concave section 133, allows the intensity of the light 300, which passes through the diffusion section 135 and exits at the outer surface 132, to be more uniform. The vertices 700, which are concentric within the diffusion section 135, allow the light 300 entering the diffusion section 135 to diffuse through many sections. Accordingly, it is possible to diffuse a greater quantity of the light 300.
[0107] In addition, the diffusion section 135 includes, for example, the second concave section 134, which is recessed in a direction in which the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 enters.
[0108] This allows even if a structure, such as the pin 162, is present that projects from the substrate 400 towards the side of the light projection lens 130, the structure can be arranged in a space formed in the second concave section 134. The entire device, such as the light source unit 100 containing the light projection lens 130, can be reduced in size accordingly.
[0109] In addition, the light projection lens 130, for example, has a light transmittance that allows infrared light to pass through, but does not allow visible light to pass through.
[0110] This allows the light projection lens 130 to pass through the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, but it does not allow ambient light in the visible range, such as sunlight, to pass through from the outside, for example, if the light source 120 is an infrared light source. This makes it difficult to optically inspect the interior of the light source unit 110, which contains the light source 120 and the substrate 140, thus improving the appearance of the light source unit 100.
[0111] In addition, the mobile object 200 according to the embodiment includes: the light source 120, which emits infrared light; the light projection lens 130, which covers the light source 120, and includes: (i) the inner surface 131, at which the infrared light emitted by the light source 120 enters; and (ii) the outer surface 132, at which the infrared light exits; and a camera with the capability to detect the infrared light that has exited the light projection lens 130.
[0112] Accordingly, the use of the light projection lens 130 enables the light 300 emitted by the light source 120 to have a long shape and uniform light intensity at a point on or along an illuminated surface (for example, a road surface) illuminated by the light 300. This ensures that a road surface along the length of the mobile object 200 is suitably illuminated by the light 300 emitted by the light source 120, thus enabling the camera 190 to capture an image of the spot on the road surface illuminated by the light 300.
[0113] In addition, the mobile object 200 has, for example, an elongated shape in a top view. Furthermore, the light projection lens 130 is attached to the mobile object 200 such that the longitudinal direction of the mobile object 200 coincides with the direction relative to the short axis of the first concave section 133, which has an elliptical shape, and the transverse direction of the mobile object 200 coincides with the direction relative to the long axis of the first concave section 133, which has an elliptical shape.
[0114] This makes it possible for the light projection lens 130 to emit the light 300, which illuminates the spot 410 that is 200 long in the longitudinal direction compared to the latitude direction of the mobile object.
[0115] In addition, for example, the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are attached to the mobile object 200 in such a way that the optical axis of the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 is directed towards the rear end of the mobile object 200.
[0116] The light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are, for example, attached to each of the two side-view mirrors 210 of the mobile object 200. The two side-view mirrors 210 are typically arranged close to the front part of the mobile object 200. The light source 120 and the light projection lens 130, which are attached to the mobile object 200 such that the optical axis of the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 is directed towards the rear of the mobile object 200, enable the light 300 to illuminate the entire road surface along the length of the mobile object 200.
[0117] In addition, the light source 120 and the light projection lens 130 are attached to the mobile object 200 in such a way that the optical axis of the light 300 exiting the light projection lens 130 is directed away from the mobile object 200.
[0118] This makes it possible to reduce the loss of light 300 emitted by the light source 120 when the light 300 hits the mobile object 200.
[0119] In addition, the mobile object 200 also includes, for example, a housing 110 that holds the light projection lens 130. The mobile object 200 includes the light projection lens 130 and the housing 110, which are attached, for example, to each of the two sides of the mobile object 200. In a top view of the mobile object 200, the two housings 110 (for example, housing 110 and housing 110a, as in Fig. 5 is shown) relative to the imaginary line 500, which runs through the center of the mobile object 200 and is parallel to a direction of travel of the mobile object 200, for example arranged asymmetrically.
[0120] If the mobile object 200 is a motor vehicle, the two side-view mirrors 210 are usually inclined differently relative to the direction of travel of the mobile object 200. Since the two housings 110, one of which is provided on each of the two sides of the mobile object 200, are arranged asymmetrically relative to the imaginary line 500, the two housings 110 can be suitably arranged in each of the two side-view mirrors 210.
[0121] Additionally, in a top view of the mobile object 200, the light projection lenses 130 are, for example, symmetrical relative to the imaginary line 500. The light projection lenses 130 are provided on each of the two sides of the mobile object 200. As such, in a top view of the mobile object 200, the housings 110 and 110a are arranged asymmetrically on the mobile object 200 relative to the imaginary line 500, and in this embodiment, the light projection lenses 130 and 130a are arranged symmetrically on the mobile object 200 relative to the imaginary line 500.
[0122] Accordingly, if the mobile object 200 is a motor vehicle, the housings 110 and 110a can be suitably arranged in each of the two side-view mirrors 210. Additionally, see paragraph 410, as in Fig.As shown in Figure 2, each of the light projection lenses 130 and 130a emits light from the light source 120 to illuminate each of the two sides of the mobile object 200. Further embodiment
[0123] The light projection lens and the mobile object have been described above according to the embodiments; however, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above.
[0124] The aforementioned embodiments describe, for example, an LED chip as a specific example of the light source 120; however, a light-emitting semiconductor element, such as a semiconductor laser, or a light-emitting solid-state element, such as an organic EL element or an inorganic EL element (EL electroluminescence), can also be used as the light source 120.
[0125] The light source 120 can also be implemented as an SMD-type LED module (Surface Mount Device SMD; surface mounted device) or as a so-called COB-LED (Chip on Board COB, chip on board), in which an LED chip is mounted directly on a circuit board.
[0126] The present disclosure also includes embodiments realized by the insertion of various modifications that can be designed by a person skilled in the art for each embodiment, as well as embodiments realized by any combination of the structural elements and functions of each embodiment without departing from the essence of the present disclosure. Reference symbol list 100 light source units 110, 110a Housing 120 light sources 130, 130a Light projection lens 131 inner surface 132 outer surface 133, 133a first concave section 134, 134a second concave section 135 Diffusion section 190 camera 200 mobile objects 300 lights 310 first light path 320 second light path 500 imaginary line 700 vertices
Claims
[1] Light projection lens (130), comprising: an inner surface (131) at which light emitted from a light source (120) enters and which includes a first concave section (133) that is recessed in a direction in which the light emitted from the light source (120) enters; and an outer surface (132) from which the light that entered at the inner surface (131) exits, wherein in a cross-section parallel to an optical axis of the light emitted by the light source (120) the outer surface (132) and the first concave section (133) contained in the inner surface (131) have a difference in the radius of curvature in at least one section of the outer surface (132) and the first concave section (133), wherein in a cross-section perpendicular to the optical axis of the light emitted by the light source (120) the first concave section (133) has an elliptical shape, wherein the light exiting the outer surface (132) is less in quantity in one direction of the optical axis of the light emitted by the light source (120) than in a direction different from the direction of the optical axis, and wherein in a cross-section of the light projection lens (130), which is taken along a longitudinal axis direction of the first concave section (133), which has an elliptical shape as seen from the optical axis direction of the light projection lens (130), (i) the optical axis of the light projection lens (130) is defined as the Z1 axis, (ii) a direction from the outer surface (132) of the light projection lens (130) to the inner surface (131) of the light projection lens (130) is defined as the positive direction of the Z1 axis, (iii) a direction perpendicular to the Z1 axis is defined as the Y1 axis and (iv) a direction from a central section of the light projection lens (130) to an edge of the first concave section (133) of the light projection lens (130) is defined as the positive direction of the Y1 axis, where a value of a second derivative of a virtual curve Z1 = f(Y1), corresponding to the first concave section (133) in the inner surface (131) of the light projection lens (130), is positive in the central section of the light projection lens (130) within a positive region of the Y1 axis and decreases monotonically from the central section of the light projection lens (130) to the edge of the light projection lens (130), and the radius of curvature of the outer surface (132) is unchanging regardless of the position. [2] Light projection lens according to claim 1, wherein in a cross-section of the first concave section (133) perpendicular to the optical axis of the light emitted by the light source (120) a cross-section taken at a first position and a cross-section taken at a second position have a difference in the ratio of a short axis to a long axis of the elliptical shape, wherein the second position is different from the first position in the direction of the optical axis of the light emitted by the light source (120). [3] Light projection lens according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a difference in the radius of curvature between a section of the inner surface (131) and a section of the outer surface (132), through which a first optical path passes, is greater than a difference in the radius of curvature between a section of the inner surface (131) and a section of the outer surface (132), through which a second optical path passes, wherein the first optical path is an optical path in the light projection lens (130) through which the light emitted by the light source (120) passes, and the second optical path is an optical path in the light projection lens (130) through which the light emitted by the light source (120) passes and is closer to a circumference of the light projection lens (130) than the first optical path. [4] Light projection lens according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, when viewed from the direction of the optical axis of the light emitted by the light source (120), the inner surface (131) comprises: a diffusion section (135) which diffuses the light emitted by the light source (120) around the first concave section (133). [5] Light projection lens according to claim 4, wherein the diffusion section (135) has corrugations in the cross-section parallel to the optical axis of the light emitted by the light source (120). [6] Light projection lens according to claim 5, wherein When viewed from the direction of the optical axis of the light emitted by the light source (120), the diffusion section (135) is ring-shaped and surrounds the first concave section (133), and The apex (700) of the undulations in the diffusion section (135) are concentric. [7] Light projection lens according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the diffusion section (135) includes a second concave section (134) which is recessed in the direction in which the light emitted from the light source (120) enters. [8] Light projection lens according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the light projection lens (130) has a light transmittance that allows infrared light to pass through and does not allow visible light to pass through. [9] Mobile object (200), comprising: a light source (120) that emits infrared light; the light projection lens (130) according to one of claims 1 to 8, which covers and includes the light source (120): the inner surface (131) at which the infrared light emitted by the light source (120) enters; and the outer surface (132) from which the infrared light emerges; and a camera (190) with the ability to detect the infrared light that has escaped from the light projection lens (130). [10] Mobile object according to claim 9, wherein the mobile object (200) has an elongated shape in a top view, and the light projection lens (130) is attached to the mobile object (200) in such a way that a longitudinal direction of the mobile object (200) coincides with the direction of the short axis of the first concave section (133) having the elliptical shape and a latitude direction of the mobile object (200) coincides with a direction of a long axis of the first concave section (133) having the elliptical shape. [11] Mobile object according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the light source (120) and the light projection lens (130) are attached to the mobile object (200) such that an optical axis of the infrared light exiting the light projection lens (130) is directed towards the rear end of the mobile object (200). [12] Mobile object according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the light source (120) and the light projection lens (130) are attached to the mobile object (200) such that the optical axis of the infrared light exiting the light projection lens (130) is directed away from the mobile object (200). [13] Mobile object according to any one of claims 9 to 12, further comprising: a housing (110) that holds the light projection lens (130), wherein the light projection lens (130) and the housing (110) are provided on each of two sides of the mobile object (200), and In a top view of the mobile object (200), the housings (110) are arranged asymmetrically relative to an imaginary line that passes through a center of the mobile object (200) and is parallel to a direction of travel of the mobile object (200). [14] Mobile object according to claim 13, wherein in the top view of the mobile object (200) the light projection lenses (130) are arranged symmetrically relative to the imaginary line, the light projection lenses (130) being provided on each of the two sides of the mobile object (200).