Vehicle lamp

Abstract

The present invention can effectively utilize photoluminescence generated by excitation light emitted from an excitation light source. The present invention comprises: a lamp housing (2) forming a lamp chamber (23) and a lamp lens (3); an excitation light source (4) disposed within the lamp chamber (23) and irradiating with excitation light (L3); and a light-emitting unit (5) fixed to the lamp chamber (23) side of the lamp lens (3) and generating photoluminescence (L1) by the excitation light (L3) emitted from the excitation light source (4). The lamp lens (3) is a lens that allows the photoluminescence (L1) generated in the light-emitting unit (5) to pass through and irradiate out of the lamp chamber (23). As a result, the present invention can effectively utilize photoluminescence (L1) generated by the excitation light (L3) emitted from the excitation light source (4).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to vehicle lighting fixtures. Background Technology

[0002] As a vehicle lamp that utilizes photoluminescence generated by excitation light emitted from an excitation light source, there is, for example, the vehicle lamp shown in Patent Document 1.

[0003] The vehicle lamp of Patent Document 1 includes: an excitation light source for irradiating excitation light; a light-emitting layer for generating photoluminescence by excitation light irradiated from the excitation light source; a holding member for holding the light-emitting layer; and a lens member for irradiating photoluminescence.

[0004] The vehicle lamp of Patent Document 1 achieves surface emission by photoluminescence generated from the light-emitting layer. Moreover, the vehicle lamp of Patent Document 1 uses a light-emitting layer that does not require electrical energy as a surface light source, thus improving the reliability of the surface light source compared to organic light-emitting diodes that require electrical energy as a surface light source.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 245030 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] In this vehicle lighting fixture, it is important to effectively utilize photoluminescence generated by excitation light emitted from an excitation source.

[0010] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a vehicle lamp that can effectively utilize photoluminescence generated by excitation light emitted from an excitation light source.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem

[0012] The vehicle lamp of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a lamp housing and a lamp lens forming a lamp chamber; an excitation light source disposed in the lamp chamber and irradiating excitation light; and a light-emitting unit fixed to the lamp chamber side of the lamp lens, which generates photoluminescence by excitation light irradiated from the excitation light source, wherein the lamp lens is a lens that allows the photoluminescence generated in the light-emitting unit to pass through and irradiate outwards from the lamp chamber.

[0013] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the light-emitting unit preferably includes: a light-emitting layer that generates photoluminescence by excitation light emitted from an excitation light source; and a substrate on which the light-emitting layer is formed and through which the excitation light is transmitted, wherein the light-emitting unit is fixed to the lamp lens by an adhesive in such a way that the light-emitting layer faces the lamp lens through an adhesive, and the adhesive is a component that at least allows photoluminescence to be transmitted.

[0014] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the light-emitting unit preferably includes: a light-emitting layer that generates photoluminescence by excitation light emitted from an excitation light source; a substrate on which the light-emitting layer is formed and through which the excitation light is transmitted; and a sealing member that seals the light-emitting layer. The light-emitting unit is fixed to the lamp lens by an adhesive in such a way that the light-emitting layer faces the lamp lens through an adhesive and the sealing member. The adhesive and the sealing member are each a member that at least allows photoluminescence to be transmitted.

[0015] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the sealing component preferably includes: a sealing substrate; and a sealing adhesive that seals and bonds the sealing substrate to the light-emitting layer.

[0016] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, it is preferable to provide a recess for positioning and fixing the light-emitting unit at the part of the lamp lens where the light-emitting unit is fixed.

[0017] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the photoluminescence is preferably red light, and the lamp lens is a lens that allows red light to pass through and absorbs light other than red light.

[0018] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, it is preferable to have an additional light source that illuminates red light disposed in the lamp housing.

[0019] The vehicle lamp of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a lamp housing and a lamp lens forming a lamp chamber; an excitation light source disposed in the lamp chamber and irradiating excitation light; and a light-emitting unit disposed in the lamp chamber, the light-emitting unit comprising: a light-emitting layer that generates photoluminescence by excitation light irradiated from the excitation light source; a substrate on which the light-emitting layer is formed and through which the excitation light and photoluminescence are transmitted; a first emission portion disposed on the substrate facing the lamp lens and emitting photoluminescence transmitted directly through the light-emitting layer in the substrate to the outside of the substrate; and a second emission portion disposed on the substrate facing the lamp lens and emitting photoluminescence that is totally internally reflected in the substrate to the outside of the substrate.

[0020] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, it is preferable to include a reflector, wherein the excitation light source is disposed facing the end face of the light-emitting layer side of the substrate, the reflector is disposed facing the end face of the second emission portion side of the substrate, and has a reflective surface that reflects the photoluminescence emitted from the substrate to the lamp lens side by total internal reflection in the substrate.

[0021] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the photoluminescence is preferably red light, and the lamp lens is a lens that allows red light to pass through and absorbs light other than red light.

[0022] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, it is preferable to provide a light-shielding member between the lamp lens and the first emission portion, the photoluminescence is red light, and the lamp lens is a colorless lens.

[0023] The vehicle lamp of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a lamp housing and a lamp lens forming a lamp chamber; an excitation light source disposed in the lamp chamber and irradiating excitation light; and a light-emitting unit disposed in the lamp chamber, the light-emitting unit having: a light-emitting layer that generates photoluminescence by excitation light irradiated from the excitation light source; and a substrate having the light-emitting layer formed thereon and allowing excitation light to pass through, the light-emitting layer and the lamp lens being disposed facing each other, the substrate having an injection surface into which excitation light irradiated from the excitation light source enters, and a reflective surface into which excitation light entering from the injection surface is reflected toward the light-emitting layer.

[0024] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the preferred injection surface is an injection surface into which the excitation light emitted from the excitation light source is injected as parallel injection excitation light, and the reflective surface is a reflective surface into which the parallel injection excitation light from the injection surface is reflected as parallel reflected excitation light.

[0025] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, it is preferable that the substrate is provided with a mounting portion for directly or indirectly mounting the light-emitting unit to the lamp housing.

[0026] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the photoluminescence is preferably red light, and the lamp lens is a lens that allows red light to pass through and absorbs light other than red light.

[0027] The vehicle lamp of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a lamp housing and a lamp lens forming a lamp chamber; and an excitation light source disposed in the lamp chamber and irradiating excitation light, the lamp lens comprising: a lens material and a phosphor material contained therein, and generating photoluminescence by excitation light irradiated from the excitation light source.

[0028] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, it is preferable to have an optical component disposed between the lamp lens and the excitation light source, the optical component controlling the excitation light emitted from the excitation light source and irradiating it onto the lamp lens.

[0029] In the vehicle lighting fixture of the present invention, the preferred phosphor material is an inorganic phosphor material.

[0030] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the preferred lens material is a resin material containing a red colorant, and the preferred phosphor material is a red inorganic phosphor material.

[0031] In the vehicle lamps of the present invention, the transmittance of the lamp lens is preferably 1% or more and less than 100%.

[0032] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, it is preferable that the weight ratio of the phosphor material in the lamp lens is more than 0% and less than 50%.

[0033] In the vehicle lamp of the present invention, the thickness of the lamp lens is preferably greater than 0 mm and less than 5 mm.

[0034] Invention Effects

[0035] The vehicle lamp of the present invention can effectively utilize photoluminescence generated by excitation light emitted from an excitation light source. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the illumination state of the excitation light source and the additional light source in Embodiment 1 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Figure 3 (I-I line cross-section illustration).

[0037] Figure 2 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the illuminated state of the excitation light source. Figure 4 (Illustration of the cross-section along line II-II in the diagram).

[0038] Figure 3 This is a frontal illustration showing the illumination state of the excitation light source and the additional light source.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a frontal illustration showing the illuminated state of the excitation light source.

[0040] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing the lamp lens.

[0041] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the light-emitting unit is fixed in front of the lamp lens.

[0042] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the light-emitting unit is fixed behind the lamp lens.

[0043] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing the non-lit state of the excitation light source and the additional light source.

[0044] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the light-emitting unit of Embodiment 2 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Figure 9 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the substrate. Figure 9 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which a light-emitting layer is formed on the substrate. Figure 9 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the substrate and the light-emitting layer before they are bonded and sealed to the sealing substrate using a sealing adhesive. Figure 9 (D) is an explanatory diagram showing the state after the substrate and the light-emitting layer are bonded and sealed to the sealing substrate by a sealing adhesive (an explanatory diagram showing the state after the light-emitting unit has been manufactured).

[0045] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the light-emitting unit is fixed behind the lamp lens. Figure 10(A) is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which a light-emitting unit is fixed in the recess of the lamp lens. Figure 10 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of a sealed substrate with a light-emitting unit fixed on the inner surface of the lamp lens.

[0046] Figure 11 This is a front view showing the excitation light source and light-emitting unit of Embodiment 3 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Figure 12 (The XI-XI line view in the middle).

[0047] Figure 12 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the lamp lens, excitation light source, and light-emitting unit. Figure 11 (Explanation of the XII-XII line cross section in the diagram).

[0048] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram showing the manufacturing process of the light-emitting unit. Figure 13 (A) is an explanatory diagram showing the substrate. Figure 13 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which a light-emitting layer is formed on the substrate. Figure 13 (C) is an explanatory diagram showing the state of the substrate and the light-emitting layer before they are bonded and sealed to the sealing substrate using a sealing adhesive. Figure 13 (D) is an explanatory diagram showing the state after the substrate and the light-emitting layer are bonded and sealed to the sealing substrate by a sealing adhesive (an explanatory diagram showing the state after the light-emitting unit has been manufactured).

[0049] Figure 14 This is a front view showing the excitation light source and light-emitting unit of Embodiment 4 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Figure 15 (XIV-XIV line view in the middle).

[0050] Figure 15 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the lamp lens, excitation light source, and light-emitting unit. Figure 16 (Explanation of the XV-XV line cross-section in the diagram).

[0051] Figure 16 This is a front view showing the excitation light source and light-emitting unit of Embodiment 5 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Figure 17 (XVI-XVI line view in the middle).

[0052] Figure 17 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the lamp lens, excitation light source, and light-emitting unit. Figure 16 (Explanation of the cross section along line XVII-XVII in the diagram).

[0053] Figure 18 This is a front view showing the excitation light source and light-emitting unit of Embodiment 6 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Figure 19(XVIII-XVIII line view in the middle).

[0054] Figure 19 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the lamp lens, excitation light source, and light-emitting unit. Figure 18 (Illustration of the XIX-XIX line cross section in the diagram).

[0055] Figure 20 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the excitation light source and light-emitting unit of Embodiment 7 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 21 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the lamp lens and excitation light source of Embodiment 8 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 22 This is a magnified longitudinal section illustration of a portion of the lamp lens.

[0058] Figure 23 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the lamp lens, excitation light source, and optical components of Embodiment 9 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 24 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional diagram illustrating the lamp lens, excitation light source, and optical components of Embodiment 10 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 25 This is a front view showing the excitation light source and optical components. Figure 24 (XXV-XXV line view in the middle). Detailed Implementation

[0061] Hereinafter, 10 embodiments (examples) of the vehicle lamp of the present invention will be described in detail based on the accompanying drawings. In this specification, front, rear, top, bottom, left, and right refer to the front, rear, top, bottom, left, and right sides when the vehicle lamp of the present invention is mounted on a vehicle. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, since they are schematic diagrams, only the main components are shown, and the diagrams of components other than the main components are omitted. In addition, the shaded lines of some components are omitted.

[0062] (Explanation of the structure of Implementation Method 1)

[0063] Figures 1 to 8 This describes Embodiment 1 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure of the vehicle lamp of Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0064] (Instructions for vehicle lighting fixture 1)

[0065] Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 8 In this embodiment, symbol 1 refers to a vehicle lamp 1. In this example, the vehicle lamp 1 is a taillight / brake light constituting the rear combination lamp. Alternatively, the vehicle lamp 1 can be either a taillight / brake light or a brake light. The vehicle lamp 1 is installed on the left and right sides of the rear of a vehicle (not shown).

[0066] The vehicle lamp 1 includes a lamp housing 2, a lamp lens 3, an excitation light source 4, a light-emitting unit 5, and an additional light source 6.

[0067] (Description of lamp housing 2)

[0068] Lamp housing 2 (refer to Figure 8 (e.g., double-dotted lines) are used to construct opaque components (such as resin components).

[0069] (Explanation of Lamp Lens 3)

[0070] The lamp lens 3 is, for example, a transparent outer cover or an outer lens. In this example, the lamp lens 3 is made of a light-transmitting resin component such as PMMA or PC.

[0071] The lamp lens 3 is mounted on the lamp housing 2. Thus, the lamp housing 2 and the lamp lens 3 form the lamp chamber 23.

[0072] A recess (bent) 30 is provided in the part of the inner surface of the lamp lens 3 (the surface facing the lamp chamber 23) where the light-emitting unit 5 is fixed. The recess 30 is a component used to position and fix the light-emitting unit 5 in a predetermined position of the lamp lens 3.

[0073] As the raw material for lamp lens 3, a material with high transmittance in the visible light region is preferred. In this example, lamp lens 3 is red. As a result, lamp lens 3 transmits red light L1 and L2 (refer to...) Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 (The solid arrow in the image) allows light other than red light L1 and L2 to pass through and absorb. That is, the lamp lens 3 is a lens that allows the photoluminescence L1, which is red light L1 generated in the light-emitting unit 5, to pass through and irradiate the outside of the lamp chamber 23.

[0074] (Explanation of excitation light source 4)

[0075] In this example, the excitation light source 4 is an LED, LD (semiconductor laser), etc., used to illuminate the excitation light L3 (see reference). Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 The excitation light source (indicated by the dashed arrow in the image) is a short-wavelength light, such as blue light, violet light, or ultraviolet light.

[0076] like Figure 8As shown, the excitation light source 4 is mounted on the lamp housing 2 and disposed within the lamp chamber 23. In this example, the optical axis 40 of the excitation light source 4 is relative to the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting unit 5 (see reference). Figure 3 The implementation includes rectangles with checkered patterns, and Figure 4 The implementation in the image is a rectangle with diagonal lines, tilted at approximately 45°. The optical axis 40 passes through the center of the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 and is perpendicular to the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4. In this example, the excitation light source 4 is a light source for a taillight / brake light.

[0077] (Explanation of light-emitting unit 5)

[0078] The light-emitting unit 5 is fixed to the lamp chamber 23 side of the lamp lens 3, and generates photoluminescence L1 by excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4. The light-emitting unit 5 has a light-emitting layer 50 and a substrate (support substrate) 51.

[0079] The light-emitting layer 50 is composed of organic light-emitting materials (organic phosphor materials), inorganic light-emitting materials (inorganic phosphor materials), etc. The light-emitting layer 50 generates photoluminescence L1 by excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4. In this example, photoluminescence L1 is red light L1 with a wavelength longer than that of the excitation light L3.

[0080] In this example, the light-emitting layer 50 has a rectangular surface shape. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1 obtains rectangular surface emission (see reference) by generating photoluminescence L1 in the rectangular surface-shaped light-emitting layer 50. Figure 3 The implementation includes rectangles with checkered patterns, and Figure 4 (The implementation in the rectangle has diagonal patterns).

[0081] The substrate 51 allows the excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4 and the red light L2 emitted from the additional light source 6 to pass through. In this example, the substrate 51 is made of a light-transmitting resin component such as PMMA or PC, or a light-transmitting glass. The substrate 51 is neither flexible nor rigid.

[0082] In this example, substrate 51 is a rectangular plate shape that is slightly larger than light-emitting layer 50. A rectangular light-emitting layer 50 is formed (filmed) on one side of the rectangular substrate 51.

[0083] The light-emitting unit 5 is positioned and fixed to the recess 30 on the inner surface of the lamp lens 3 using adhesive 52.

[0084] At this time, the light-emitting layer 50 faces the lamp lens 3 through the adhesive 52. As a result, the light-emitting layer 50 is fixed in a state where it is sealed to the lamp lens 3 through the adhesive 52. That is, there is an adhesive 52 between the light-emitting layer 50 and the lamp lens 3 with a refractive index greater than that of air (refractive index 1), and there is no air with a refractive index of 1. Therefore, the photoluminescence L1 generated in the light-emitting layer 50 can be emitted into the lamp lens 3 through the adhesive 52 without passing through air.

[0085] The substrate 51 faces the excitation light source 4 and the additional light source 6 within the lamp chamber 23. A portion of the substrate 51 (the portion on the plate side where the light-emitting layer 50 is formed) is fitted into the recess 30 of the lamp lens 3 and is adhered tightly to the adhesive 52. The substrate 51 and the adhesive 52 together seal the light-emitting layer 50.

[0086] The adhesive 52 allows photoluminescence L1 generated in the light-emitting layer 50 and red light L2 emitted from the additional light source 6 to pass through. In this example, the adhesive 52 is composed of silicone resin, epoxy resin, or the like. The refractive index of the adhesive 52 is preferably the same as that of the lamp lens 3.

[0087] (Explanation of additional light source 6)

[0088] An additional light source 6 illuminates red light L2. In this example, the additional light source 6 may be an LED, an LD (semiconductor laser), or the like. The red light L2 illuminated by the additional light source 6 is red light with approximately the same wavelength as the photoluminescence L1.

[0089] An additional light source 6 is mounted on the lamp housing 2 and disposed within the lamp chamber 23. In this example, the optical axis 60 of the additional light source 6 is inclined at approximately 45° relative to the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting unit 5. As a result, the optical axis 60 of the additional light source 6 intersects the optical axis 40 of the excitation light source 4 at approximately 90°. The optical axis 60 passes through the center of the light-emitting surface of the additional light source 6 and is perpendicular to the light-emitting surface of the additional light source 6. In this example, the additional light source 6 is a light source for a brake light.

[0090] (Instructions for the assembly process of vehicle lamp 1)

[0091] The following is for reference Figures 5 to 8 The assembly process of the vehicle lamp 1 will be explained. First, the lamp housing 2 is formed. Next, the lamp lens 3 with a recess 30 is formed (see reference). Figure 5 Furthermore, light-emitting unit 5 is manufactured.

[0092] Next, adhesive 52 is applied to the recess 30 of the lamp lens 3, and the light-emitting unit 5 is fitted into the recess 30 such that the light-emitting layer 50 faces the lamp lens 3 (see reference). Figure 6 Using adhesive 52, the lamp lens 3 and the light-emitting unit 5 are bonded together to create an integral structure of the lamp lens 3 and the light-emitting unit 5 (see reference). Figure 7).

[0093] Thus, the lamp housing 2 and the lamp lens 3 are installed to form the lamp chamber 23. An excitation light source 4 and an additional light source 6 are arranged within this lamp chamber 23. Thus, the vehicle lamp 1 is assembled (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0094] (Explanation of the function of Implementation Method 1)

[0095] The vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 has the structure described above, and its function will be explained below.

[0096] First, the excitation light source 4 is lit. Then, the excitation light L3 shines from the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 onto the light-emitting unit 5 side in a Lambertian distribution. The excitation light L3 shines through the substrate 51 of the light-emitting unit 5 onto the light-emitting layer 50 of the light-emitting unit 5.

[0097] The light-emitting layer 50 generates photoluminescence L1 through excitation light L3. Photoluminescence L1, passing through adhesive 52 and lamp lens 3, illuminates the exterior of the vehicle lamp 1 with a predetermined taillight light distribution pattern. At this time, the vehicle lamp 1 receives… Figure 4 The implementation features a rectangular surface with diagonal patterns that emits light.

[0098] In addition, with the excitation light source 4 lit, an additional light source 6 is also lit. Then, red light L2 illuminates the light-emitting unit 5 from the emitting surface of the additional light source 6 in a Lambertian distribution.

[0099] Red light L2 passes through the substrate 51, light-emitting layer 50, adhesive 52, and lamp lens 3 of the light-emitting unit 5, illuminating the exterior of the vehicle lamp 1 with a predetermined brake light light distribution pattern. Similarly, the aforementioned photoluminescence L1 also passes through the adhesive 52 and lamp lens 3, illuminating the exterior of the vehicle lamp 1 with a predetermined brake light light distribution pattern. At this time, the vehicle lamp 1 receives… Figure 3 The implementation features a rectangular surface with a grid pattern that emits light.

[0100] (Explanation of the effects of Implementation Method 1)

[0101] The vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 has the structure and function described above, and its effects will be explained below.

[0102] In this embodiment 1, the vehicle lamp 1 has the light-emitting unit 5 fixed to the lamp chamber 23 side of the lamp lens 3. Therefore, the photoluminescence L1 generated by the excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4 is directly incident on the lamp lens 3 without passing through the air (air layer). That is, the photoluminescence L1 from the light-emitting unit 5 does not undergo total internal reflection at the incident surface of the lamp lens 3 when it is incident on the lamp lens 3 from the air (air layer).

[0103] As a result, the vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 can make almost all of the photoluminescence L1 from the light-emitting unit 5 enter the lamp lens 3, thus making effective use of the photoluminescence L1.

[0104] In the vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1, the light-emitting unit 5 is composed of a light-emitting layer 50 and a substrate 51. The light-emitting layer 50 is fixed to the lamp lens 3 in a sealed state facing each other across an adhesive 52. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 can allow almost all of the photoluminescence L1 to be emitted into the lamp lens 3 through the adhesive 52, thereby effectively utilizing the photoluminescence L1.

[0105] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1, the substrate 51 is composed of a component that allows the excitation light L3 to pass through, and the adhesive 52 is composed of a component that allows the photoluminescence L1 to pass through, so the excitation light L3 and the photoluminescence L1 can be effectively utilized.

[0106] The vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 can house the entire light-emitting layer 50 of the light-emitting unit 5 and a portion of the substrate 51 in the recess 30 of the lamp lens 3, so that all the photoluminescence L1 generated in the light-emitting layer 50 can be directed into the lamp lens 3, and the photoluminescence L1 can be effectively utilized.

[0107] The vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 can position and fix the light-emitting unit 5 in the recess 30 of the lamp lens 3. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 improves the positional accuracy of the light-emitting unit 5, and thus can control the photoluminescence L1 with high precision, and can control the light distribution pattern (light distribution pattern of the taillight and the light distribution pattern of the brake light) formed by the illumination of the photoluminescence L1 with high precision.

[0108] In the vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1, the photoluminescence L1 is red light, and the lamp lens 3 is a lens that allows red light to pass through and absorbs light other than red light. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 can effectively utilize the photoluminescence L1 of red light.

[0109] The vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 has an additional light source 6 for illuminating red light L2 arranged in the lamp chamber 23, so both the photoluminescence L1 and the red light L2 can be effectively utilized. Moreover, the vehicle lamp 1 of this embodiment 1 has two lamp functions, such as a taillight function and a brake light function, through the photoluminescence L1 and the red light L2.

[0110] (Explanation of the structure, function, and effects of Implementation Method 2)

[0111] Figure 9 as well as Figure 10This illustrates Embodiment 2 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure, function, and effects of the vehicle lamp 1A of Embodiment 2 will be described. In the figures, [the lamp is]... Figures 1 to 8 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0112] The vehicle lamp 1A of Embodiment 2 is a variation of the vehicle lamp 1 of Embodiment 1 described above. Furthermore, the components of the vehicle lamp 1A of Embodiment 2, including the lamp housing (not shown), lamp lens 3, excitation light source (not shown), light-emitting layer 50, substrate 51, adhesive 52, and additional light source (not shown), are constructed with the same structure as those of the vehicle lamp 1 of Embodiment 1, including the lamp housing 2, lamp lens 3, excitation light source 4, light-emitting layer 50, substrate 51, adhesive 52, and additional light source 6.

[0113] The light-emitting unit 5 of the vehicle lamp 1 in Embodiment 1 described above is composed of a light-emitting layer 50 and a substrate 51. In contrast, the light-emitting unit 5A of the vehicle lamp 1A in Embodiment 2 is composed of a light-emitting layer 50, a substrate 51, and sealing components 53 and 54. The sealing components 53 and 54 include: a sealing substrate 53; and a sealing adhesive 54 for sealing and bonding the sealing substrate 53 to the light-emitting layer 50.

[0114] The encapsulating substrate 53 allows photoluminescence L1 and red light L2 to pass through. The encapsulating substrate 53 is the same as the substrate 51, and in this example, it is constructed from a light-transmitting resin component such as PMMA or PC, or light-transmitting glass. The encapsulating substrate 53 is neither considered flexible nor rigid. The encapsulating substrate 53 has almost the same size and shape as the substrate 51. The refractive index of the encapsulating substrate 53 is preferably the same as the refractive index of the lamp lens 3.

[0115] The sealing adhesive 54 allows photoluminescence L1 and red light L2 to pass through. The sealing adhesive 54 is the same as adhesive 52, and in this example, it is composed of silicone resin, epoxy resin, or the like. Preferably, the refractive index of the sealing adhesive 54 is the same as that of the sealing substrate 53 and the lamp lens 3.

[0116] (Description of the manufacturing process of light-emitting unit 5A)

[0117] The following is for reference Figure 9 The manufacturing process of the light-emitting unit 5A will be described. First, the substrate 51 is manufactured (refer to...). Figure 9 (A) Next, a light-emitting layer 50 (film formation) is formed on the substrate 51 (refer to...). Figure 9 (B)). Thus, the light-emitting unit 5 of the vehicle lamp 1 of the above embodiment 1 is manufactured.

[0118] The sealing substrate 53 is manufactured independently of the substrate 51. The light-emitting layer 50, the substrate 51, and the sealing substrate 53 are then bonded together using a sealing adhesive 54 (see reference). Figure 9 (C)). Therefore, the light-emitting layer 50 is sealed by the sealing components (sealing substrate 53 and sealing adhesive 54) (see reference). Figure 9 (D)).

[0119] Thus, the light-emitting unit 5A of the vehicle lamp 1A of this embodiment 2 is manufactured. At this time, the light-emitting layer 50 faces the sealing substrate 53 through the sealing adhesive 54. In addition, a portion of the substrate 51 (the portion around the four sides of the light-emitting layer 50) is bonded by the sealing adhesive 54.

[0120] The light-emitting unit 5A, manufactured through the above-described manufacturing process, is fixed to the lamp chamber 23 side of the lamp lens 3 via adhesive 52. For example, as... Figure 10 As shown in (A), the light-emitting unit 5A is fixed in the recess 30 of the lamp lens 3 through the adhesive 52. Or, as Figure 10 As shown in (A), the light-emitting unit 5A is fixed to the lamp chamber 23 side of the lamp lens 3 via adhesive 52. At this time, the sealing components (sealing substrate 53 and sealing adhesive 54) face the lamp lens 3.

[0121] The vehicle lamp 1A of Embodiment 2 has the structure described above, and therefore can achieve the same function and effect as the vehicle lamp 1 of Embodiment 1. In particular, the vehicle lamp 1A of Embodiment 2 can seal and protect the light-emitting layer 50 using sealing components (sealing substrate 53 and sealing adhesive 54).

[0122] (Explanation of the structure of Implementation Method 3)

[0123] Figures 11 to 13 This illustrates Embodiment 3 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. The structure of the vehicle lamp 1B according to Embodiment 3 will be described below. In the figures, [the text abruptly ends here, likely due to an incomplete sentence or missing information]. Figures 1-10 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0124] (Instructions for vehicle lighting fixture 1B)

[0125] The vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 is substantially the same as the vehicle lamps 1 and 1A of embodiments 1 and 2 described above, and includes a lamp housing (not shown), a lamp lens 3, an excitation light source 4, and a light-emitting unit 5B.

[0126] In the vehicle lamps 1 and 1A of embodiments 1 and 2 described above, the light-emitting units 5 and 5A are fixed to the lamp lens 3. In contrast, in the vehicle lamp 1B of embodiment 3, the light-emitting unit 5B is disposed in the lamp chamber 23 without being fixed to the lamp lens 3.

[0127] (Explanation of excitation light source 4)

[0128] In this example, three excitation light sources 4 are mounted at equal intervals on the lower surface of the mounting component 41. The emitting surfaces of the excitation light sources 4 face downwards. Furthermore, the number of excitation light sources 4 is not particularly limited.

[0129] (Description of light-emitting unit 5B)

[0130] The light-emitting unit 5B is disposed below the excitation light source 4. The light-emitting unit 5B has a light-emitting layer 50B, a substrate 51B, a sealing substrate 53B, a sealing adhesive 54B, a first injection portion 531, and a second injection portion 532.

[0131] The structural components of the light-emitting unit 5B in this embodiment 3, namely the light-emitting layer 50B, the substrate 51B, the sealing substrate 53B, and the sealing adhesive 54B, are made of the same materials as the structural components of the light-emitting units 5 and 5A in embodiments 1 and 2, namely the light-emitting layer 50, the substrate 51, the sealing substrate 53, and the sealing adhesive 54.

[0132] The substrate 51B, the sealing substrate 53B, and the sealing adhesive 54B allow photoluminescence L1 from the light-emitting layer 50B and excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 to pass through. In addition, the substrate 51B and the sealing substrate 53B have a light-guiding function to guide the photoluminescence L1 through total internal reflection.

[0133] In this example, the light-emitting layer 50B has a rectangular shape that is longer from left to right. In this example, the substrate 51B and the sealing substrate 53B have a rectangular plate shape that is larger than the light-emitting layer 50B and more than twice as large vertically as the light-emitting layer 50B.

[0134] A light-emitting layer 50B is formed (filmed) on the upper part of one side of the substrate 51B. A recess 530 is provided on the upper part of one side of the sealing substrate 53B (the side facing the light-emitting layer 50B and the substrate 51B), corresponding to the light-emitting layer 50B.

[0135] A first emission portion 531 is provided on the upper part of the other side of the sealing substrate 53B. The first emission portion 531 and the recess 530 are provided correspondingly on both sides of the sealing substrate 53B. As a result, the first emission portion 531 has the same rectangular shape as the light-emitting layer 50B, with a longer left and right side. The first emission portion 531 causes the photoluminescence L1 transmitted in the sealing substrate 53B (substrate) to be emitted to the outside of the sealing substrate 53B (substrate).

[0136] A plurality of second emission portions 532 are provided on the lower portion of the other side of the sealing substrate 53B, and in this example, three are provided. The second emission portions 532 are circular in shape and protrude from the other side of the sealing substrate 53B. The second emission portions 532 cause the photoluminescence L1 that is totally internally reflected in the sealing substrate 53B (substrate) to be emitted to the outside of the sealing substrate 53B (substrate).

[0137] (Description of the manufacturing process of light-emitting unit 5B)

[0138] The following is for reference Figure 13 The manufacturing process of the light-emitting unit 5B will be explained. First, the substrate 51B is manufactured (refer to...). Figure 13 (A) Next, a light-emitting layer 50B is formed (film-forming) on ​​the upper portion of one side of the substrate 51B (refer to...). Figure 13 (B)).

[0139] The sealing substrate 53B is manufactured independently of the substrate 51B. A sealing adhesive 54 is then used to bond one side of the light-emitting layer 50B and one side of the substrate 51B to one side of the sealing substrate 53B (see reference). Figure 13 (C)). Therefore, the light-emitting layer 50B is sealed by the substrate 51B, the sealing substrate 53B, and the sealing adhesive 54B (see reference). Figure 13 (D)).

[0140] Thus, the light-emitting unit 5B of the vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 is manufactured. At this time, the light-emitting layer 50B faces the sealing substrate 53B through the sealing adhesive 54B. In addition, the portion of the substrate 51B other than the light-emitting layer 50B is bonded to the sealing substrate 53B through the sealing adhesive 54B.

[0141] The light-emitting unit 5B, manufactured through the above-described manufacturing process, is disposed below the excitation light source 4 within the lamp chamber 23 of the vehicle lamp 1B. The upper end face of the light-emitting unit 5B faces the light-emitting surface of the excitation light source 4. The first emission portion 531 and the second emission portion 532 of the light-emitting unit 5B face the lamp lens 3. Alternatively, the excitation light source 4 may be disposed on at least one of the left or right end faces of the light-emitting unit 5B. Furthermore, the excitation light source 4 may be disposed obliquely relative to the light-emitting unit 5B on the lamp lens 3 side, or obliquely on the side opposite to the lamp lens 3.

[0142] (Explanation of the function of Implementation Method 3)

[0143] The vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 has the structure described above, and its function will be explained below.

[0144] First, the excitation light source 4 is lit. Then, the excitation light L3 shines from the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 onto the light-emitting unit 5B side in a Lambertian distribution. The excitation light L3 enters the substrate 51B, the sealing substrate 53B, and the sealing adhesive 54B from the upper end surface of the light-emitting unit 5, and passes through the substrate 51B, the sealing substrate 53B, and the sealing adhesive 54B to shine onto the light-emitting layer 50B.

[0145] The light-emitting layer 50B generates photoluminescence L1 through excitation light L3. A portion of the photoluminescence L1 is emitted from the first ejection portion 531 to the outside of the sealing substrate 53B through the sealing adhesive 54B and the sealing substrate 53B.

[0146] In addition, most of the remaining photoluminescence L1 is totally reflected on the other side of the substrate 51B and the other side of the sealing substrate 53B, while it passes through the substrate 51B, the sealing substrate 53B and the sealing adhesive 54B and is emitted from the second emission portion 532 to the outside of the sealing substrate 53B.

[0147] The photoluminescent L1 emitted from the first emission portion 531 and the second emission portion 532 to the outside of the sealing substrate 53B illuminates the outside of the vehicle lamp 1B with a predetermined taillight light distribution pattern or a predetermined brake light light distribution pattern through the lamp lens 3.

[0148] At this time, the vehicle lamp 1B emits light from the longer rectangular surface in the first emission section 531 (see reference). Figure 11 The three circular surfaces in the second emission section 532 emit light (see reference). Figure 11 ).

[0149] (Explanation of the effects of Implementation Method 3)

[0150] The vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 has the structure and function described above, and its effects will be explained below.

[0151] The vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 has a first emission portion 531 and a second emission portion 532 provided on the sealing substrate 53B (substrate). As a result, the vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 can emit a portion of the photoluminescence L1 that has passed directly from the light-emitting layer 50B through the sealing adhesive 54B and the sealing substrate 53B (substrate) from the first emission portion 531 to the outside of the sealing substrate 53B (substrate). In addition, the vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 can cause the remaining majority of the photoluminescence L1 that is not emitted from the first emission portion 531 to the outside of the sealing substrate 53B (substrate) to be totally reflected by the other side of the substrate 51B and the other side of the sealing substrate 53B, while passing through the substrate 51B, the sealing substrate 53B, and the sealing adhesive 54B and being emitted from the second emission portion 532 to the outside of the sealing substrate 53B (substrate). Therefore, the vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 can utilize photoluminescence L1 more effectively.

[0152] The vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 is the same as the vehicle lamps 1 and 1A of embodiments 1 and 2 described above. The photoluminescence L1 is red light, and the lamp lens 3 is a lens (red lens) that allows red light to pass through and absorbs light other than red light. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment 3 can effectively utilize the photoluminescence L1 of red light.

[0153] (Explanation of the structure, function, and effects of Implementation Method 4)

[0154] Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 This illustrates Embodiment 4 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure, function, and effects of the vehicle lamp 1C according to Embodiment 4 will be described. In the figures, [the lamp is]... Figures 1 to 13 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0155] The vehicle lamp 1C of Embodiment 4 is a variation of the vehicle lamp 1B of Embodiment 3 described above. Furthermore, the components of the vehicle lamp 1C of Embodiment 4, such as the lamp housing (not shown), the excitation light source 4, and the light-emitting unit 5C (light-emitting layer 50C, substrate 51C, and sealing substrate 53C), are constructed with the same structure as those of the vehicle lamp 1B of Embodiment 3, such as the lamp housing, the excitation light source 4, and the light-emitting unit 5B (light-emitting layer 50B, substrate 51B, and sealing substrate 53B).

[0156] The vehicle lamp 1B of Embodiment 3 described above uses a lens (red lens) that allows red light to pass through and absorbs light other than red light as the lamp lens 3. In contrast, the vehicle lamp 1C of Embodiment 4 uses a colorless and transparent lens as the lamp lens 3C.

[0157] In this embodiment 4, a light-shielding member 55C is disposed between the lamp lens 3C and the first emission portion 531 of the light-emitting unit 5C. The light-shielding member 55C blocks light, primarily photoluminescence L1, which is red light.

[0158] The vehicle lamp 1C of this embodiment 4 has the structure described above, and therefore can achieve the same function and effect as the vehicle lamp 1B of embodiment 3 described above.

[0159] In particular, the vehicle lamp 1C of this embodiment 4 uses a colorless and transparent lens as the lamp lens 3C. Therefore, when not illuminated, the interior of the lamp chamber 23 can be seen from the outside of the vehicle lamp 1C through the lamp lens 3C and a portion of the second emission portion 532 of the light-emitting unit 5C. Furthermore, when illuminated, the three circular surfaces of the second emission portion 532 of the light-emitting unit 5C are visible emitting light. Thus, the vehicle lamp 1C of this embodiment 4 achieves a near-transparent appearance when not illuminated, and provides a light-emitting surface of any shape when illuminated.

[0160] (Explanation of the structure, function, and effects of Implementation Method 5)

[0161] Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 This illustrates Embodiment 5 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure, function, and effects of the vehicle lamp 1D according to Embodiment 5 will be described. In the figures, [the lamp is]... Figures 1-15 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0162] The vehicle lamp 1D of Embodiment 5 is a variation of the vehicle lamp 1B of Embodiment 3 described above. Furthermore, the components of the vehicle lamp 1D of Embodiment 5, including the lamp housing (not shown), lamp lens 3, excitation light source 4, and light-emitting unit 5D (light-emitting layer 50D, substrate 51D, and sealing substrate 53D), are constructed using the same structure as those of the vehicle lamp 1B of Embodiment 3.

[0163] The vehicle lamp 1D of this embodiment 5 includes a reflector 56D. The reflector 56D is disposed facing the end face (lower end face) of the portion of the substrate (i.e., substrate 51D and sealing substrate 53D) on the side of the second emission portion 532 of the light-emitting unit 5D.

[0164] In the vehicle lamp 1D of this embodiment 5, similar to the vehicle lamps 1B and 1C of embodiments 3 and 4 described above, the light-emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 faces the end face (upper end face) of the portion of the first emission portion 531 of the substrate of the light-emitting unit 5D (i.e., substrate 51D and sealing substrate 53D).

[0165] In the vehicle lamp 1D of this embodiment 5, the excitation light source 4 and the reflector 56D are arranged vertically and vertically across the light-emitting unit 5D.

[0166] A reflective surface 560 is provided on the inner surface of the reflector 56D. The reflective surface 560 faces the end face of the second emission portion 532 side of the substrate of the light-emitting unit 5D and the inner surface (the face of the lamp chamber 23 side) of the lamp lens 3. As a result, the reflective surface 560 causes the photoluminescence L1 emitted from the end face of the second emission portion 532 side of the substrate of the light-emitting unit 5D to be totally internally reflected in the substrate and reflected to the lamp lens 3 side.

[0167] The vehicle lamp 1D of this embodiment 5 has the structure described above, and therefore can achieve the same function and effect as the vehicle lamps 1B and 1C of embodiments 3 and 4 described above.

[0168] In particular, the vehicle lamp 1D of this embodiment 5 includes a reflector 56D having a reflective surface 560. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1D of this embodiment 5 can utilize the reflective surface 560 of the reflector 56D to reflect the photoluminescence L1 emitted from the end face of the second emission portion 532 side of the substrate outward by total internal reflection in the substrate of the light-emitting unit 5D towards the lamp lens 3 side. Therefore, the vehicle lamp 1D of this embodiment 5 can utilize the photoluminescence L1 more effectively.

[0169] That is, in this embodiment 5, the vehicle lamp 1D emits photoluminescence L1 that passes directly through the light-emitting layer 50B into the substrate from the first emission portion 531 to the outside of the substrate. Additionally, the photoluminescence L1 that does not exit through the first emission portion 531 into the outside of the substrate undergoes total internal reflection and transmission within the substrate, and is emitted from the second emission portion 532 to the outside of the substrate. Furthermore, the photoluminescence L1 that does not exit through the second emission portion 532 into the outside of the substrate undergoes total internal reflection and transmission within the substrate, and is emitted from the lower end face of the substrate to the outside of the substrate. Thus, the vehicle lamp 1D of this embodiment 5 can utilize the photoluminescence L1 more effectively.

[0170] (Explanation of the structure, function, and effects of Implementation Method 6)

[0171] Figure 18 as well as Figure 19 This illustrates Embodiment 6 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure, function, and effects of the vehicle lamp 1E according to Embodiment 6 will be described. In the figures, [the lamp is]... Figures 1 to 17 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0172] The vehicle lamp 1E of Embodiment 6 is a variation of the vehicle lamp 1B of Embodiment 3 described above. Furthermore, the components of the vehicle lamp 1E of Embodiment 6, including the lamp housing (not shown), lamp lens 3, excitation light source 4, and light-emitting unit 5E (light-emitting layer 50E, substrate 51E, and sealing substrate 53E), are constructed using the same structure as those of the vehicle lamp 1B of Embodiment 3.

[0173] The vehicle lamp 1E of this embodiment 6 is vertically symmetrical with respect to the straight line connecting the three second emission portions 532 in the vehicle lamp 1B of embodiment 3 described above. That is, the excitation light source 4 is respectively arranged above and below the light-emitting unit 5E. In the light-emitting unit 5E, the light-emitting layer 50E and the first emission portion 531 are respectively vertically symmetrical with respect to the straight line connecting the three second emission portions 532.

[0174] The vehicle lamp 1E of this embodiment 6 has the structure described above, and therefore can achieve the same function and effect as the vehicle lamp 1B of embodiment 3 described above.

[0175] In particular, in this embodiment 6, the vehicle lamp 1E is symmetrically arranged vertically with respect to the straight line connecting the three second emission portions 532, with respect to the excitation light source 4, the light-emitting layer 50E, and the first emission portion 531. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1E of this embodiment 6 can obtain a larger light-emitting surface area.

[0176] (Explanation of the structure of Implementation Method 7)

[0177] Figure 20 This illustrates Embodiment 7 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure of the vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 will be described. In the figures, [the text abruptly ends here, likely due to an incomplete sentence or missing information]. Figures 1 to 19 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0178] (Instructions for vehicle lighting fixtures, 1F)

[0179] The vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 is substantially the same as the vehicle lamps 1 and 1B of Embodiments 1 and 3 described above, and includes a lamp housing (not shown), a lamp lens (not shown), an excitation light source 4, and a light-emitting unit 5F.

[0180] In the vehicle lamps 1 and 1B of embodiments 1 and 3 described above, the excitation light L3 emitted from the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 in a Lambertian distribution is directed directly into the emitting units 5 and 5B, and also directly into the emitting layers 50 and 50B. In contrast, in the vehicle lamp 1F of embodiment 7, the excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 is directed into the emitting unit 5F in a controlled manner, and also directed into the emitting layer 50F in a controlled manner.

[0181] (Description of light-emitting unit 5F)

[0182] The light-emitting unit 5F has a light-emitting layer 50F and a substrate 51F. Furthermore, the light-emitting unit 5F of this embodiment 7 is the same as the light-emitting units 5A and 5B of embodiments 2 and 3 described above, and the light-emitting layer 50F can also be sealed using a sealing substrate (not shown) and a sealing adhesive (not shown).

[0183] The materials used for the structural components of the light-emitting unit 5F in Embodiment 7, namely the light-emitting layer 50F and the substrate 51F, are the same as those used for the structural components of the light-emitting units 5 and 5B in Embodiments 1 and 3, namely the light-emitting layers 50 and 50B and the substrates 51 and 51B.

[0184] The light-emitting layer 50F is disposed facing the lamp lens in the lamp chamber (not shown).

[0185] The substrate 51F has a first injection surface 571, a second injection surface 572, a first reflective surface 573, a second reflective surface 574, and an injection surface 570.

[0186] The first incident surface 571 is a surface that refracts the excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 (the excitation light L3 with a solid angle of approximately 70° to 80° with the center of the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 as the point (vertex of the angle)) as a parallel first incident light. The first incident light is parallel to the optical axis (hereinafter referred to as the "optical axis") of the excitation light source 4. The first incident surface 571 is set face-to-face with the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4. The first incident surface 571 is a refracting surface of a hyperboloid of revolution formed by rotating a hyperbola with the center of the emitting surface as the focus about the principal axis (optical axis) of the hyperbola.

[0187] The second incident surface 572 is a surface that refracts the excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 (the excitation light L3 with a solid angle between approximately 70° and 80° and approximately 180° with the center of the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 as the point (vertex of the angle)) as the second incident light. The second incident surface 572 is disposed on the outer peripheral side of the first incident surface 571, facing the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4. The second incident surface 572 is a refracting surface formed by rotating a straight line or curve about the optical axis.

[0188] The first reflecting surface 573 is a surface that causes the second incident light (a portion of the incident light) incident from the second incident surface 572 to be totally reflected as a first reflected light parallel to the optical axis. The first reflecting surface 573 is a reflecting surface of a parabola formed by rotating a parabola with its focal point at the center of the light-emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 about the optical axis. Alternatively, the first reflecting surface 573 is a reflecting surface of a rotating surface formed by rotating a straight line imitating the aforementioned parabola about the optical axis.

[0189] The second reflecting surface 574 is a surface that allows the first incident light (a portion of the incident light) parallel to the optical axis, incident from the first incident surface 571, and the second incident light (a portion of the incident light) incident from the second incident surface 572—that is, the first reflected light parallel to the optical axis after total reflection by the first reflecting surface 573—to be totally reflected as the second reflected light perpendicular to and parallel to the optical axis. The second reflecting surface 574 is a reflecting surface consisting of multiple segments, in this example, five planar segments.

[0190] The emission surface 570 is a plane that allows the second reflected light from the second reflecting surface 547 to be emitted as emitted light perpendicular to and parallel to the optical axis. A light-emitting layer 50F is formed (filmed) on the emission surface 570. As a result, the emitted light (excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4) emitted from the emission surface 570 irradiates the light-emitting layer 50F. Thus, the light-emitting layer 50F irradiates photoluminescence L1.

[0191] A mounting portion 575 is integrally provided on the side of the substrate 51F opposite to the emission surface 570. A mounting hole 576 is provided in the mounting portion 575. The mounting portion 575 is mounted directly to the lamp housing or indirectly via a bracket using screws or the like (not shown) passing through the mounting hole 576. As a result, the light-emitting unit 5F is directly or indirectly mounted to the lamp housing via the mounting portion 575 of the substrate 51F.

[0192] (Explanation of the function of Implementation Method 7)

[0193] The vehicle lamp 1F of this embodiment 7 has the structure described above, and its function will be explained below.

[0194] First, the excitation light source 4 is lit. Then, the excitation light L3 illuminates the first incident surface 571 and the second incident surface 572 of the light-emitting unit 5F from the light-emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 in a Lambertian distribution.

[0195] A portion of the excitation light L3 is incident into the substrate 51F as a first incident light parallel to the optical axis from the first incident surface 571. The remaining portion of the excitation light L3 is incident into the substrate 51F as a second incident light from the second incident surface 572, and is reflected by the first reflecting surface 573 as a first reflected light parallel to the optical axis.

[0196] A first incident light parallel to the optical axis and a first reflected light, which are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the optical axis, are totally internally reflected by the second reflecting surface 574. This second reflected light is emitted as emitted light from the emitting surface 570 and illuminates the light-emitting layer 50F. As a result, the light-emitting layer 50F illuminates the photoluminescence L1 towards the lamp lens side. The photoluminescence L1 passes through the lamp lens and illuminates the outside of the vehicle lamp 1F with a predetermined light distribution pattern.

[0197] (Explanation of the effects of Implementation Method 7)

[0198] The vehicle lamp 1F of this embodiment 7 has the structure and function described above, and its effects will be explained below.

[0199] The vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 has a first incident surface 571, a second incident surface 572, a first reflecting surface 573, a second reflecting surface 574, and an exit surface 570 provided on the substrate 51F of the light-emitting unit 5F. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 can control the excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 to be parallel light (parallel excitation light L3) entering the light-emitting unit 5F, and to be controlled to illuminate the light-emitting layer 50F as parallel light (parallel excitation light L3). Thus, the vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 can control the photoluminescence L1 to be emitted from the light-emitting layer 50F, and can effectively utilize the photoluminescence L1.

[0200] The vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 has a mounting portion 575 on the substrate 51F. Therefore, by directly or indirectly mounting the mounting portion 575 of the substrate 51F to the lamp housing, the light-emitting unit 5F can be directly or indirectly mounted to the lamp housing. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 can maintain the relative positional relationship between the lamp lens, the excitation light source 4, and the light-emitting unit 5F with high precision, enabling the excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 to reliably enter the light-emitting unit 5F, and enabling the photoluminescence L1 from the light-emitting unit 5F to reliably exit towards the lamp lens side. Thus, the vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 can reliably control the photoluminescence L1 from the light-emitting unit 5F, and can utilize the photoluminescence L1 more effectively.

[0201] In the vehicle lamp 1F of this embodiment 7, such as Figure 20 As shown, if the thickness of the light-emitting layer 50F is reduced as indicated by the solid line, the red color of the photoluminescence L1 becomes lighter; if it is increased as indicated by the double-dotted line, the red color of the photoluminescence L1 becomes darker. This is also the case in the vehicle lamps 1 to 1E of the embodiments 1 to 6 described above, and the intensity of the red color of the photoluminescence L1 can be adjusted.

[0202] The vehicle lamp 1F of Embodiment 7 is the same as the vehicle lamps 1, 1A, 1B, 1D, and 1E of Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 described above. The photoluminescence L1 is red light, and the lamp lens 3 is a lens (red lens) that allows red light to pass through and absorbs light other than red light. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1B of Embodiment 3 can effectively utilize the photoluminescence L1 of red light.

[0203] (Explanation of the structure of Implementation Method 8)

[0204] Figure 21 as well as Figure 22 This illustrates embodiment 8 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure of the vehicle lamp 1G of embodiment 8 will be described. In the figures, [the text abruptly ends here, likely due to an incomplete sentence or missing information]. Figures 1 to 20 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0205] (Instructions for vehicle lighting fixtures 1G)

[0206] The vehicle lamp 1G of Embodiment 8 is substantially the same as the vehicle lamps 1 to 1F of Embodiments 1 to 7 described above, and includes a lamp housing (not shown), a lamp lens 3G, and an excitation light source 4.

[0207] The vehicle lamps 1-1F in embodiments 1-7 described above each have a light-emitting unit 5-5F independently of the lamp lens 3 and 3C. In contrast, the vehicle lamp 1G in embodiment 8 is a vehicle lamp in which the lamp lens 3G also serves as a light-emitting unit. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1G in embodiment 8 does not have a light-emitting unit.

[0208] (Instructions for Lamp Lens 3G)

[0209] The lamp lens 3G and the lamp housing together form the lamp chamber 23. The excitation light source 4 is arranged inside the lamp chamber 23.

[0210] The lamp lens 3G comprises a lens material 58 and a phosphor material 580. The lens material 58 is a resin material containing a red colorant, such as PMMA, which is a typical red lens. The phosphor material 580 is a red inorganic phosphor material, such as CASN. The lamp lens 3G is formed by mixing the lens material 58 and the phosphor material 580 during injection molding.

[0211] The phosphor material 580 is in the shape of particles and is contained in the lens material 58. It generates photoluminescence L1 by excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4.

[0212] The transmittance of the lamp lens 3G is 1% or more and less than 100%. Furthermore, the weight percentage of phosphor material 580 in the lamp lens 3G is more than 0% and less than 50%. Also, the thickness of the lamp lens 3G is more than 0 mm and less than 5 mm. However, the transmittance, the weight percentage of phosphor material 580 in the lamp lens 3G, and the thickness of the lamp lens 3G are not limited to the values ​​in this example.

[0213] (Explanation of the function of Implementation Method 8)

[0214] The vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8 has the structure described above, and its function will be explained below.

[0215] The excitation light source 4 is lit. Excitation light L3 then shines from the emitting surface of the excitation light source 4 onto the lamp lens 3G side. Excitation light L3 enters the lamp lens 3G from the inner surface (the surface on the side of the lamp chamber 23). The excitation light L3 entering the lamp lens 3G irradiates the phosphor material 580 contained in the lens material 58.

[0216] The phosphor material 580 generates photoluminescence L1 by excitation light L3. The photoluminescence L1 passes through the lens material 58 and illuminates the exterior of the lamp lens 3G (the side opposite to the lamp chamber 23) onto the exterior of the vehicle lamp 1G with a predetermined light distribution pattern. As a result, the entire exterior surface of the lamp lens 3G emits red light.

[0217] (Explanation of the effects of Implementation Method 8)

[0218] The vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8 has the structure and function described above, and its effects will be explained below.

[0219] In the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8, the lamp lens 3G has a lens material 58 and a phosphor material 580. Therefore, by irradiating the lamp lens 3G with excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4, the entire lamp lens 3G emits light through photoluminescence L1. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8 can efficiently utilize photoluminescence L1.

[0220] Furthermore, the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8 includes a lamp lens 3G, so that it can illuminate the photoluminescent L1 even without the light-emitting units 5 to 5F. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8 can reduce the number of components and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0221] In the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8, the phosphor material 580 of the lamp lens 3G is an inorganic phosphor material, so the phosphor material 580 can fully withstand the temperature during the injection molding of the lamp lens 3G.

[0222] In the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8, the lens material 58 of the lamp lens 3G is a resin material containing a red colorant, such as PMMA, which is a common red lens. Furthermore, the phosphor material 580 of the lamp lens 3G is a red inorganic phosphor material, such as CASN. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8 can effectively utilize red light for photoluminescence L1.

[0223] In the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8, the transmittance of the lamp lens 3G is 1% or more and less than 100%, so the transmittance of the lamp lens 3G can be adjusted arbitrarily, and the freedom of the appearance design of the lamp lens 3G is increased.

[0224] In the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8, the weight ratio of phosphor material 580 in the lamp lens 3G is more than 0% and less than 50%, so the weight ratio of phosphor material 580 can be adjusted arbitrarily, the amount of photoluminescence L1 generated can be adjusted, and the degree of freedom in the appearance design of photoluminescence L1 is increased.

[0225] In the vehicle lamp 1G of this embodiment 8, the thickness of the lamp lens 3G is more than 0 mm and less than 5 mm. Therefore, the thickness of the lamp lens 3G can be adjusted arbitrarily, the absorption of the excitation light L3 in the lamp lens 3G can be adjusted, and the excitation light L3 can be suppressed from shining from the lamp lens 3G to the outside of the vehicle lamp 1G.

[0226] (Explanation of the structure, function, and effects of Implementation Method 9)

[0227] Figure 23 This illustrates Embodiment 9 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure, function, and effects of the vehicle lamp 1H of Embodiment 9 will be described. In the figures, [the lamp is]... Figures 1 to 22 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0228] The vehicle lamp 1H of Embodiment 9 is a variation of the vehicle lamp 1G of Embodiment 8 described above. Furthermore, the components of the vehicle lamp 1H of Embodiment 9, such as the lamp housing (not shown), the lamp lens 3H, and the excitation light source 4, are constructed with the same structure as the components of the vehicle lamp 1G of Embodiment 8.

[0229] In this embodiment 9, the vehicle lamp 1H has an optical component 8 disposed within the lamp chamber 23 and between the lamp lens 3H and the excitation light source 4. The optical component 8 controls the excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4 and directs it toward the lamp lens 3H.

[0230] The optical component 8 has a first incident surface 81, a second incident surface 82, and an exit surface 80. The first incident surface 81 allows a portion of the excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 to enter the optical component 8 as parallel light. The second incident surface 82 allows the remaining portion of the excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 to enter the optical component 8 as parallel light. The parallel light incident from the first incident surface 81 and the parallel light incident from the second incident surface 82 are parallel to each other. The exit surface 80 allows the parallel light incident in the optical component 8 to exit as parallel light toward the lamp lens 3H side.

[0231] The vehicle lamp 1H of Embodiment 9 has the structure described above, and therefore can achieve the same function and effect as the vehicle lamp 1G of Embodiment 8 described above.

[0232] In particular, the vehicle lamp 1H of this embodiment 9 has an optical component 8 disposed between the lamp lens 3H and the excitation light source 4, so that the excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4 in a Lambertian distribution can be controlled by the optical component 8 to illuminate the lamp lens 3H side as parallel light. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1H of this embodiment 9 can efficiently obtain photoluminescence L1 as parallel light from the lamp lens 3H.

[0233] (Explanation of the structure, function, and effects of Implementation Method 10)

[0234] Figure 24 as well as Figure 25 This illustrates Embodiment 10 of the vehicle lamp of the present invention. Hereinafter, the structure, function, and effects of the vehicle lamp 1I of Embodiment 10 will be described. In the figures, [the lamp is]... Figures 1 to 23 The same symbol represents the same thing.

[0235] The vehicle lamp 1I of Embodiment 10 is a variation of the vehicle lamp 1G of Embodiment 8 described above. Furthermore, the components of the vehicle lamp 1I of Embodiment 10, such as the lamp housing (not shown), the lamp lens 3I, and the excitation light source 4, are constructed with the same structure as the components of the lamp housing, the lamp lens 3G, and the excitation light source 4 of the vehicle lamp 1G of Embodiment 8 described above.

[0236] In this embodiment 10, the vehicle lamp 1I has an optical component 7 disposed within the lamp chamber 23 and between the lamp lens 3I and the excitation light source 4. The optical component 7 controls the excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4 and directs it toward the lamp lens 3I.

[0237] Optical component 7 is a rod-shaped light guide (light guide). Optical component 7 has an incident surface 70 at one end, a reflecting surface 71 on one side, and an exit surface 72 on the other side. The incident surface 70 allows excitation light L3 from the excitation light source 4 to enter the optical component 7. The reflecting surface 71 reflects the excitation light L3 that enters the optical component 7 and is guided from the incident surface at one end to the other end through total internal reflection. Furthermore, multiple reflecting surfaces 71 and stepped surfaces are alternately provided. One reflecting surface 71 and one stepped surface form a prism surface. The exit surface 72 allows the excitation light L3 reflected by the reflecting surface 71 in the optical component 8 to exit as diffused light towards the lamp lens 3I side.

[0238] The vehicle lamp 1I of this embodiment 10 has the structure described above, and therefore can achieve the same function and effect as the vehicle lamp 1G of the above embodiment 8.

[0239] In particular, the vehicle lamp 1I of this embodiment 10 has an optical component 7 disposed between the lamp lens 3I and the excitation light source 4, so that the excitation light L3 emitted from the excitation light source 4 in a Lambertian distribution can be controlled by the optical component 7 to illuminate the lamp lens 3I side as diffuse light. As a result, the vehicle lamp 1I of this embodiment 10 can efficiently obtain photoluminescence L1 as diffuse light from the lamp lens 3I.

[0240] (Explanation of examples other than Implementation Methods 1 to 10)

[0241] Furthermore, in the embodiments 1 to 10 described above, any one of the taillights, brake lights, or taillight / brake lights constituting the rear combination lamp was described. However, in this invention, it is also possible to apply the lamps described above to vehicle lighting devices other than displays. For example, it could also be the turn signal lights, rear fog lights, reversing lights, etc. at the rear of the vehicle.

[0242] Furthermore, in the embodiments 1 to 10 described above, the rear combination lamp mounted at the rear of the vehicle was explained. However, in this invention, it can also be applied to front combination lamps, interior lights, instrument lights, decorative lights, displays, etc., mounted at the front of the vehicle, other than the rear combination lamp mounted at the rear of the vehicle. Examples of front combination lamps include headlights, fog lights, daytime running lights, distance lights, and turn signals.

[0243] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1 described above, a vehicle lamp 1 with a recess 30 provided on the lamp housing 23 side of the lamp lens 3 was described. However, in this invention, it is also possible to use the method described in Embodiment 2 above. Figure 10 As shown in (B), the vehicle lamp is a lamp in which the recess 30 is not provided on the lamp chamber 23 side of the lamp lens 3.

[0244] Furthermore, in Embodiment 7 described above, a first injection surface 571, a second injection surface 572, a first reflective surface 573, and a second reflective surface 574 are provided on the substrate 51F. However, in this invention, there are no particular limitations on the injection surface and the reflective surface provided on the substrate.

[0245] Furthermore, in Embodiment 7 described above, the excitation light L3 and photoluminescence L1 are controlled as parallel light. However, in this invention, the control of the excitation light L3 and photoluminescence L1 is not limited to parallel light. For example, the excitation light L3 and photoluminescence L1 may also be controlled as diffuse light or focused light (directional light).

[0246] Furthermore, in Embodiment 8 described above, the transmittance of the lamp lens 3G is 1% or more and less than 100%, the weight ratio of the phosphor material 580 in the lamp lens 3G is more than 0% and less than 50%, and the thickness of the lamp lens 3G is more than 0 mm and less than 5 mm. However, in this invention, the values ​​of the transmittance of the lamp lens 3G, the weight ratio of the phosphor material 580 in the lamp lens 3G, and the thickness of the lamp lens 3G are not limited.

[0247] Furthermore, in Embodiment 8 described above, a conventional red lens, such as PMMA, containing a red colorant, is used as the lens material 58, and a red inorganic phosphor material, such as CASN, is used as the phosphor material 580. However, in this invention, there are no particular limitations on the lens material 58 and the phosphor material 580.

[0248] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment 8, an inorganic phosphor material was used as the phosphor material 580, but an organic phosphor material may also be used.

[0249] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments 1 to 10 described above. For example, the shape of the surface-emitting light source is not particularly limited. Surface-emitting light sources with any shape and appearance design can be obtained. In addition, the configuration state and number of the excitation light source 4 and the additional light source 6 are not particularly limited.

[0250] Symbol Explanation

[0251] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I—Vehicle lamps; 2—Lamp housing; 23—Lamp chamber; 3, 3C, 3G, 3H, 3I—Lamp lenses; 30—Recess; 4—Excitation light source; 40—Optical axis; 41—Mounting component; 5, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F—Light-emitting units; 50, 50B, 50C, 50D, 50E, 50F—Light-emitting layers; 51, 51B, 51C, 51D, 51E, 51F—Substrate; 52—Adhesive; 53, 53B, 53C, 53D, 53E—Sealing substrate; 530—Recess; 531—First injection portion; 532—Second... Ejection section, 54, 54B—sealing adhesive, 55C—light-shielding component, 56D—reflector, 560—reflecting surface, 570—ejection surface, 571—first injection surface, 572—second injection surface, 573—first reflecting surface, 574—second reflecting surface, 575—mounting section, 576—mounting hole, 58—lens material, 580—phosphor material, 6—additional light source, 60—optical axis, 7—optical component, 70—injection surface, 71—reflecting surface, 72—ejection surface, 8—optical component, 80—ejection surface, 81—first injection surface, 82—second injection surface, L1—photoluminescence (red light), L2—red light, L3—excitation light.

Claims

1. A vehicle lamp characterized by comprising: Possessing: a lamp housing and a lamp lens that form a lamp chamber; an excitation light source that is disposed in the lamp chamber and that radiates excitation light; and a light emitting unit that is fixed to the lamp chamber side of the lamp lens, that generates photoluminescence by the excitation light radiated from the excitation light source, the lamp lens is a lens that transmits the photoluminescence generated in the light emitting unit and radiates it outside the lamp chamber, a recess is provided in the lamp lens, the light emitting unit has: a light emitting layer that generates the photoluminescence by the excitation light radiated from the excitation light source; and a substrate that forms the light emitting layer and transmits the excitation light, the light emitting unit is fixed to the recess of the lamp lens using an adhesive, the adhesive is a member that transmits at least the photoluminescence, the light emitting layer is housed in the recess and is fixed in a state of being sealed facing the lamp lens with the adhesive interposed therebetween.

2. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: the substrate is larger than the light emitting layer by one turn, is fitted to the recess, and seals the light emitting layer together with the adhesive in close contact with the adhesive.

3. A vehicle lamp characterized by comprising: Possessing: a lamp housing and a lamp lens that form a lamp chamber; an excitation light source that is disposed in the lamp chamber and that radiates excitation light; and a light emitting unit that is fixed to the lamp chamber side of the lamp lens, that generates photoluminescence by the excitation light radiated from the excitation light source, the lamp lens is a lens that transmits the photoluminescence generated in the light emitting unit and radiates it outside the lamp chamber, the light emitting unit has: a light emitting layer that generates the photoluminescence by the excitation light radiated from the excitation light source; a substrate that forms the light emitting layer and transmits the excitation light; and a sealing member that seals the light emitting layer, the light emitting unit is fixed to the lamp lens using an adhesive in a manner of facing the lamp lens with the light emitting layer interposed therebetween via the adhesive and the sealing member, the adhesive and the sealing member are each a member that transmits at least the photoluminescence.

4. The vehicle lamp according to claim 3, characterized in that: the sealing member has: a sealing substrate; and a sealing adhesive that seals and adheres the sealing substrate to the light emitting layer.

5. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: a recess that positions and fixes the light emitting unit is provided in a portion of the lamp lens where the light emitting unit is fixed.

6. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: the photoluminescence is red light, the lamp lens is a lens that transmits red light and absorbs light other than red light.

7. The vehicle lamp according to claim 6, characterized in that: an additional light source that radiates red light is disposed in the lamp chamber.

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