Headlamp device

Abstract

A headlamp device (100) has a first optical system (101) and a second optical system (102). The first optical system (101) emits first light (L1) to a predetermined emission direction. In the emission direction, a part of an optical axis (C1) of the first optical system (101) coincides with a part of an optical axis (C2) of the second optical system (102). The second optical system (102) has a light-receiving portion (20) and a first optical portion (30), and second light (L2) traveling in an incidence direction which is the opposite direction of the emission direction is incident to the second optical system (102). The first optical portion (30) has an aperture portion (32a) which makes the diameter of the second light (L21) traveling toward the light-receiving portion (20) through the second optical system (102) smaller than the diameter of the second light (L2) when incident to the second optical system (102).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a headlight assembly. Background Technology

[0002] A high-performance headlight device has been proposed, comprising: a projection optical system that emits illumination light; and a camera optical system including a light-receiving portion for detecting incident light from objects such as other vehicles located in the emission direction of the illumination light. The headlight device controls the light distribution pattern of the illumination light based on the detection results in the light-receiving portion. See, for example, Patent Document 1. In the headlight device of Patent Document 1, a portion of the projection optical system shares a portion of the camera optical system.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-64371 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the headlight device of Patent Document 1, the light incident on the light-receiving part includes peripheral rays that travel away from the optical axis. As a result, the image formed on the light-receiving part has aberrations, leading to a problem of reduced detection accuracy of the incident light in the light-receiving part.

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide a headlight device that improves the detection accuracy of incident light in the light-receiving section.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] One aspect of the present invention provides a headlight device comprising: a first optical system that emits first light in a predetermined emission direction; and a second optical system having a light-receiving portion and the first optical portion, wherein a second light traveling in an incident direction opposite to the emission direction is incident on the second optical system, wherein a portion of the optical axis of the first optical system coincides with a portion of the optical axis of the second optical system in the emission direction, and the first optical portion having an aperture portion such that the diameter of the second light traveling through the second optical system toward the light-receiving portion is smaller than the diameter of the second light incident on the second optical system.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to the present invention, a headlight device with improved detection accuracy of incident light in the light-receiving section can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device in Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a top view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device in Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device in Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 4 It is shown Figures 1-3 A diagram showing the structure of the light source section.

[0017] Figure 5 It is shown Figures 1-3 A diagram showing the structure of the light-receiving part.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device of a variation of Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device of Variation 2 of Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device of Variation 3 of Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device of Variation 4 of Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device of Modification 5 of Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device of Variation 6 of Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing an example of a spot diagram of light incident on the light-receiving part of the headlight device of Embodiment 2.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing an example of a spot diagram of light incident on the light-receiving part of the headlight device of the comparative example.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device in Embodiment 3.

[0027] Figure 15This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device of Modification 1 of Embodiment 3.

[0028] Figure 16 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device of Modification 2 of Embodiment 3.

[0029] Figure 17 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device in Embodiment 4. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The headlight device according to the embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are merely examples, and the embodiments can be appropriately combined and modified.

[0031] The headlight device implemented is, for example, a vehicle headlight device. The vehicle is, for example, a motorized four-wheeled vehicle, a motorized three-wheeled vehicle, a motorized two-wheeled vehicle, etc.

[0032] In the following description, we will take the case where the illumination state of the light irradiated by the headlight device of the embodiment is high beam, which indicates the illumination state for driving. The light irradiated by high beam has a wider range and higher illuminance than the light irradiated by low beam, which indicates the illumination state for passing. Therefore, when the headlight device irradiates the vehicle with the headlight device through high beam, the driver's field of vision is well ensured. However, when the high beam irradiates the vehicle, it may dazzle drivers of oncoming and following vehicles. To prevent this dazzle, the headlight device of the embodiment controls the light distribution pattern, for example, through ADB (Adaptive Driving Beam) control. In the headlight device of the embodiment, the light distribution pattern of the light irradiated by high beam is adjusted so that the target area (e.g., an area other than oncoming and following vehicles) becomes the illumination area.

[0033] In the accompanying diagram, the axes of the xyz rectangular coordinate system are shown for ease of explanation. The axes shown in the diagram are explained below. The x-axis is a coordinate axis parallel to the left-right direction of the vehicle. That is, the x-axis direction is the width direction of the vehicle. When facing forward, the left direction is the +x-axis direction, and the right direction is the -x-axis direction. The y-axis is a coordinate axis parallel to the up-down direction of the vehicle. The upward direction of the vehicle is the +y-axis direction, and the downward direction is the -y-axis direction. That is, the +y-axis side of the vehicle is the sky side, and the -y-axis side is the road side. The z-axis is a coordinate axis perpendicular to the x-axis and y-axis. The z-axis direction is the direction of travel of the vehicle. In the following explanation, the "+z-axis direction" will also be referred to as "forward".

[0034] Implementation Method 1

[0035] <Structure of the Headlight System>

[0036] Figure 1 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 This is a top view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 3 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100 according to Embodiment 1. In Embodiment 1, an example of the headlight device 100 having one headlight module will be described. Therefore, in the following description, the headlight device 100 will also be referred to as a "headlight module". Alternatively, the headlight device 100 may have multiple headlight modules.

[0037] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the headlight assembly 100 includes a light source section 10, a light receiving section 20, and a beam splitter 30 serving as a first optical section. Furthermore, the structure of the headlight assembly 100 is not limited to... Figures 1-3 The structure shown may also be the one described later. Figures 6-11 The structure shown.

[0038] The light source unit 10 is one of the components constituting the projection optical system 101 of the headlight device 100. The projection optical system 101 has an optical axis C1 as a first optical axis and emits a first light, namely light L1, in a predetermined emission direction. In Embodiment 1, the emission direction is along the direction of the optical axis C1, i.e., the +z axis direction. The structure of the light source unit 10 will be described later.

[0039] The light-receiving unit 20 and the beam splitter 30 are components constituting the imaging optical system 102. The light-receiving unit 20 is a light detection unit that detects the second light, i.e., the incident light L2, traveling in the incident direction (the -z-axis direction in Embodiment 1), which is the opposite direction to the emission direction. Figures 1-3 In this diagram, the optical axis of the light-receiving section 20 is represented by the optical axis C20. The structure of the light-receiving section 20 will be described later.

[0040] The beam splitter 30 emits light L1 in the emission direction and guides the incident light L2 to the light-receiving section 20. In Embodiment 1, the beam splitter 30 reflects the central beam L20, which is a part of the incident light L2, and emits it as light L21 toward the light-receiving section 20. Here, the central beam L20 is the beam in the incident light L2 that includes the central ray. Alternatively, the central beam L20 can also be a ray beam in the incident light L2 that travels along the optical axis C1 and in the region near the optical axis C1 (hereinafter also referred to as the "paraxial region"). The central beam L20 can include rays that travel parallel to the optical axis C1 in the paraxial region of the optical axis C1 and rays that do not travel parallel to the optical axis C1.

[0041] The beam splitter 30 has a central portion 32a, which serves as an aperture portion. The central portion 32a is positioned on the optical axis C1, and its diameter is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it enters the imaging optical system 102, thus affecting the light-receiving portion 20. The central portion 32a is formed, for example, at a location in the beam splitter 30 that covers the area reached by the central beam L20. Further details of the beam splitter 30's structure will be described later.

[0042] <Light Source Section>

[0043] Figure 4 It is shown Figures 1-3 A diagram showing the structure of the light source unit 10. Figure 4 Viewed from the +z axis side Figures 1-3 The diagram shows the light source unit 10. (See figure.) Figure 4 As shown, the light source unit 10 may, for example, have multiple light-emitting elements 11. The light-emitting elements 11 are solid-state light sources. Solid-state light sources are directional light sources, such as semiconductor light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Other examples of solid-state light sources include organic light-emitting light sources and light sources that emit light from phosphors by irradiating them with excitation light. From the perspectives of miniaturization and ease of arraying, high brightness, minimal impact on living organisms, and low cost, LEDs are preferred as the light-emitting elements 11.

[0044] In the following description, the surface of the light-emitting element 11 facing the +z axis direction is referred to as the light-emitting surface 12. The light source unit 10 includes one or more light-emitting surfaces 12. When the light source unit 10 includes multiple light-emitting surfaces 12, the light source unit 10 may, for example, include N light-emitting surfaces 12 arranged in a predetermined arrangement direction. N is a positive integer. Figure 4 In the example shown, N is 5. Furthermore, in Figure 4 In the example shown, the multiple luminous surfaces 12 are arranged along the x-axis. Furthermore, in Figure 4 In the example shown, multiple light-emitting surfaces 12 are arranged in a straight line in a single column. Furthermore, in the following description, the multiple light-emitting surfaces 12 arranged in the x-axis direction will also be referred to as 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, and 12e. Moreover, as described above, the light-emitting surface 12 provided on the light source unit 10 may also be a single surface. Additionally, the light source unit 10 may also have a structure for adjusting light distribution, such as a movable light-shielding plate (not shown).

[0045] The shape of the luminescent surface 12 when viewed along the z-axis is, for example, rectangular. Figure 4 In the light-emitting surface 12, the length of the side S12 extending along the x-axis is the same as the length of the side S11 extending along the y-axis. That is, in Figure 4In this design, the shape of the light-emitting surface 12 is a square. However, the shape of the light-emitting surface 12 is not limited to a square; it can also be a rectangle or other rectangular shapes, or a circle or other shapes.

[0046] Projection / Camera Dual-Purpose Lens>

[0047] The headlight assembly 100 may also have a lens as a second optical element. That is, the headlight assembly 100 may also have at least one lens. For example... Figures 1-3 As shown, the headlight assembly 100 may, for example, include a projection / camera lens 50. The projection / camera lens 50 is positioned in the optical path of the light L1 traveling in the outgoing direction and in the optical path of the incident light L2 traveling in the incident direction. Furthermore, as described later... Figure 6 As shown, the headlight device 100 can be realized even without the projection / camera lens 50.

[0048] The projection / imaging lens 50 has the function of projecting light L1 emitted from the light source unit 10 and imaging incident light L2, which is a detection light, incident from the outside onto the light receiving unit 20. The projection / imaging lens 50 is, for example, a lens with positive optical power. The projection / imaging lens 50 can also be a spherical lens or an aspherical lens. In Embodiment 1, the projection / imaging lens 50 is composed of a single lens. The projection / imaging lens 50 can also be composed of a lens group having multiple lenses. When the projection / imaging lens 50 is composed of a lens group, the more the number of lenses increases, the lower the light utilization efficiency; therefore, it is preferable that the projection / imaging lens 50 is composed of two lenses. That is, it is preferable that the projection / imaging lens 50 is composed of one or two lenses. The projection / imaging lens 50 is, for example, formed of transparent resin or the like. Alternatively, in Embodiment 1, the second optical unit that projects light L1 emitted from the light source unit 10 forward can also be configured as a combination of a projection / photography lens 50 and a reflector.

[0049] Light L1 incident on the projection / camera lens 50 passes through the projection / camera lens 50 and exits towards a predetermined illumination area. Here, the "predetermined illumination area" is a predetermined area on the illumination surface 90 located at a position closer to the +z axis than the projection / camera lens 50. Here, the illumination surface 90 is an imaginary projection surface of the light distribution pattern of the projected light L1.

[0050] exist Figures 1-3 In this diagram, the optical axis of the projection / photography lens 50 is denoted by optical axis C5, and the optical axis of the light source unit 10 is denoted by optical axis C10. The optical axis C10 of the light source unit 10 and the optical axis C5 of the projection / photography lens 50 are located on the same straight line. That is, the optical axis C10 and the optical axis C5 are aligned.

[0051] <Bet splitter>

[0052] Next, the structure of the beam splitter 30 will be described. The beam splitter 30 is an optical component that branches the optical path of the incident light L2 by reflecting a portion of the incident light L2 from the outside using a light reflecting surface 32 having a predetermined reflectivity. The beam splitter 30 may also be constructed as a dichroic mirror, for example. The beam splitter 30 allows the incident light L1 to pass through and exit in the +z-axis direction. In Embodiment 1, a light source 10 is arranged on the -z-axis side of the beam splitter 30. Therefore, the beam splitter 30 exits the light L1 incident from the -z-axis side as illumination light in the exit direction (i.e., the +z-axis direction).

[0053] Furthermore, a light-receiving section 20 is disposed on the -y-axis side of the beam splitter 30. The light-receiving section 20 may also be disposed on the +y-axis side of the beam splitter 30. The beam splitter 30 guides the incident light L2, which enters through the projection / camera lens 50, to the light-receiving section 20. Specifically, the incident light L2 emitted by the beam splitter 30 in the incident direction (i.e., the -z-axis direction) is light L21 directed toward the light-receiving section 20.

[0054] Beam splitter 30 has a light-transmitting surface 33 that allows light L1 to pass through. Thus, beam splitter 30 can also possess the property of allowing light L1 to pass through, i.e., light transmittance. Furthermore, beam splitter 30 has a light-reflecting surface 32 that reflects incident light L2. Figure 1 In the example shown, the angle θ between the light reflecting surface 32 and the optical axis C1 is 45 degrees. The angle θ is not limited to 45 degrees and can be other values. The incident light L2, reflected by the light reflecting surface 32, travels in the -y-axis direction as light L21 toward the light receiving part 20. In Embodiment 1, the light reflecting surface 32 and the light transmitting surface 33 are parallel to each other. Furthermore, as described later... Figure 17 As shown, the light reflecting surface 32 and the light transmitting surface 33 may not be parallel to each other.

[0055] like Figure 3 As shown, the light-reflecting surface 32 of the beam splitter 30 has a central portion 32a, which serves as an aperture portion. The central portion 32a is disposed on the optical axis C1. The central portion 32a reflects the central beam L20, which is part of the incident light L2, and guides it to the light-receiving portion 20. Thus, the light beam L21 incident on the light-receiving portion 20 is composed of light rays traveling in the paraxial region of the optical axis C1. That is, the central portion 32a makes the diameter of the light L21 traveling towards the light-receiving portion 20 through the beam splitter 30 smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it is incident on the projection / imaging lens 50. Thus, the light rays in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1, i.e., the peripheral light rays L22 (see reference 32a), are also smaller. Figure 1 It is difficult for the incident light L2 to be incident on the light-receiving part 20, therefore, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving part 20 is reduced. Therefore, the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving part 20 can be improved.

[0056] The beam splitter 30's light-reflecting surface 32 also has a peripheral portion 32b disposed outside the central portion 32a. The peripheral portion 32b allows light L1 to pass through and reflects incident light L2. The reflectivity of the peripheral portion 32b is less than that of the central portion 32a. Therefore, peripheral rays L22 (see reference) in the incident light L2 can be suppressed. Figure 1 The incident light L2 is incident on the light-receiving section 20. In other words, the light L21 reflected from the central part 32a in the incident light L2 is more likely to be incident on the light-receiving section 20. As a result, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving section 20 is reduced, and thus the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving section 20 can be improved.

[0057] The central portion 32a may be coated with, for example, metal vapor deposition or a dielectric beam splitter coating. The peripheral portion 32b may also be coated with, for example, an AR (Anti-Reflective) coating. Alternatively, the peripheral portion 32b may not be coated with an AR coating. The shape of the central portion 32a may be, for example, circular. The shape of the central portion 32a is not limited to circular; it may be other shapes. Furthermore, multiple reflective regions with different reflectivities may be continuously formed in the light reflecting surface 32, such that the reflectivity smoothly increases as the beam splitter approaches the optical axis C1 from its outer edge. Alternatively, multiple reflective regions may be discretely formed in the light reflecting surface 32, such that the reflectivity increases progressively as the beam splitter approaches the optical axis C1 from its outer edge. From the viewpoint of effectively guiding the incident light L2 traveling near the optical axis C1 to the light receiving portion 20, it is preferable to configure the light reflecting surface 32 to continuously form multiple reflective regions with different reflectivities, such that the reflectivity smoothly increases as it approaches the optical axis C1.

[0058] <Light Receiving Section>

[0059] Next, the structure of the light-receiving unit 20 will be described. In the z-axis direction, the light-receiving unit 20 is disposed between the light source unit 10 and the projection / imaging lens 50. The light-receiving unit 20 detects incident light L2 emitted from a predetermined light-receiving area in front and incident through the projection / imaging lens 50 and the beam splitter 30. The incident light L2 is the detection light detected by the light-receiving unit 20. Here, the "predetermined light-receiving area" is a predetermined region located on the +z-axis side of the projection / imaging lens 50, and is a region that at least includes the aforementioned "predetermined illumination area." For example, if an object emitting light exists in the illumination area of ​​light L1 located on the +z-axis side of the projection / imaging lens 50, the incident light L2 may also be light emitted from that object. As an example, if an oncoming vehicle is included in the predetermined light-receiving area in front, the incident light L2 may also be light irradiated by the headlight of that oncoming vehicle. Furthermore, when the designated illuminated area ahead includes a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction, the incident light L2 can also be light emitted from the taillights of that vehicle. Additionally, if an object reflecting light exists in the area illuminated by light L1 located on the +z axis side of the projection / camera lens 50, the incident light L2 can also be light reflected from that object. For example, if a pedestrian wearing reflective material, a road surface coated with reflective material, or a guardrail exists in the designated illuminated area ahead, the incident light L2 can also be light reflected from that pedestrian, road surface, or guardrail. Thus, the object that becomes the emitting point of the incident light L2 can be any object located on the +z axis side of the projection / camera lens 50 (road surface, oncoming vehicles, vehicles traveling in the opposite direction, and pedestrians, etc.).

[0060] Figure 5 It is shown Figures 1-3 A diagram showing the structure of the light-receiving part 20. Figure 5 Viewed from the +y axis side Figures 1-3 The diagram shows the light-receiving part 20. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 5 As shown, the light-receiving section 20 has multiple light-receiving elements 21. The light-receiving element 21 is, for example, a semiconductor element that converts the energy of the received light L21 into an electrical signal. Examples of the light-receiving element 21 include photodiodes, CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensors, and CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensors. The light-receiving section 20 may also be a line sensor containing multiple light-receiving elements 21. In the following description, the surface of the light-receiving element 21 facing the +y axis direction is referred to as the light-receiving surface 22.

[0061] The light-receiving portion 20 includes a plurality of light-receiving surfaces 22 arranged in the x-axis direction. In the following description, the plurality of light-receiving surfaces 22 arranged in the x-axis direction will also be referred to as 22a, 22b, 22c, 22d, and 22e. The light-receiving portion 20 includes a plurality of light-emitting surfaces 12 (see reference 12). Figure 4 M light-receiving surfaces are arranged in the direction corresponding to the arrangement direction of ) . M is a positive integer, in Figure 5 In the example shown, M is 5. Here, "the direction corresponding to the arrangement direction of the plurality of light-emitting surfaces 12" means including directions parallel to the arrangement direction of the plurality of light-emitting surfaces 12 and directions that are not parallel to the arrangement direction of the plurality of light-emitting surfaces 12 but are inclined. Figure 5 In the example shown, the plurality of light-receiving surfaces 22 are arranged along the x-axis direction, which is parallel to the arrangement direction of the plurality of light-emitting surfaces 12. Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the number M of the plurality of light-receiving surfaces 22 is related to... Figure 4 The number N of the plurality of light-emitting surfaces 12 shown is equal. Thus, in Embodiment 1, the plurality of light-receiving surfaces 22 and the plurality of light-emitting surfaces 12 correspond one-to-one.

[0062] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, the multiple light-receiving surfaces 22 can, for example, be arranged in a straight line in a single row. When viewed along the y-axis, the shape of the light-receiving surfaces 22 is, for example, rectangular. Figure 5 In the example shown, in the light-receiving surface 22, the length of the side S21 extending along the z-axis is longer than the length of the side S22 extending along the x-axis. That is, in Figure 5 In this design, the light-receiving surface 22 is rectangular. This allows for sufficient margin in the vertical direction (i.e., the z-axis direction) of the light-receiving surface 22, enabling reliable detection of moving objects (such as other vehicles or pedestrians) located in front. Furthermore, the shape of the light-receiving surface 22 is not limited to a rectangle; it can also be a square or other rectangular shape. Additionally, the shape of the light-receiving surface 22 is not limited to a rectangle; it can also be a circle or other shapes.

[0063] <Light Distribution Control Department>

[0064] The headlight assembly 100 also includes a light distribution control unit 40 connected to the light source unit 10 and the light receiving unit 20. The light distribution control unit 40 adjusts the light distribution pattern of the light L1 of the light source unit 10 according to a detection signal corresponding to the light L21 detected by the light receiving unit 20.

[0065] The light distribution control unit 40, for example, determines that multiple light-receiving surfaces 22 (see reference) Figure 5 The light distribution control unit 40 then determines whether the intensity of light L21 detected by the light distribution control unit is above a predetermined threshold. This is done by checking whether the intensity of light L21 is above a predetermined threshold. Figure 5 When the intensity of light L21 detected by the light-receiving surface 22c shown is above a threshold, the light-emitting surface 12 (refer to) of the light source section 10 emits light above a threshold. Figure 4The light distribution control unit 40 controls the light source unit 10 to extinguish the light-emitting surface 12c, which corresponds to the light-receiving surface 22c that detects light L21 with an intensity of at least a threshold, and to illuminate the other light-emitting surfaces 12a, 12b, 12d, and 12e. This allows the light source unit 10 to adjust the light distribution pattern of the light L1. In Embodiment 1, the detection accuracy of the light L21 in the light-receiving unit 20 is improved. Therefore, accurately illuminating the target area with the light distribution pattern of the light L1 ensures good visibility for the driver of the vehicle equipped with the headlight device 100.

[0066] The light distribution control unit 40 is, for example, a control circuit composed of semiconductor integrated circuits. The light distribution control unit 40 may also be composed of a processor that executes a program stored in memory.

[0067] <Projection Optical Systems and Camera Optical Systems>

[0068] Next, an optical system consisting of a light source unit 10, a light receiving unit 20, a beam splitter 30, and a projection / camera lens 50, which are structural elements of a headlight module, will be described. In Embodiment 1, the light source unit 10, the beam splitter 30, and the projection / camera lens 50 constitute a projection optical system 101 as a first optical system, which illuminates light L1 in front of a vehicle equipped with a headlight module as illumination light. The light L1 emitted from the light source unit 10 passes through the beam splitter 30 and is projected onto the front of the vehicle by the projection / camera lens 50.

[0069] Furthermore, the projection / image-capturing lens 50, the beam splitter 30, and the light-receiving section 20 constitute a camera optical system 102, which serves as a second optical system for capturing images of the front of the vehicle. Incident light L2, received from the outside via the projection / image-capturing lens 50, is reflected by the beam splitter 30 and imaged onto the light-receiving surface 22 of the light-receiving section 20. The camera optical system 102 has an optical axis C2, which serves as a second optical axis. In Embodiment 1, the projection optical system 101 and the camera optical system 102 share the beam splitter 30 and the projection / image-capturing lens 50. That is, the projection optical system 101 and the camera optical system 102 share a common optical axis C5 in front of the beam splitter 30. Therefore, in the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101 coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the camera optical system 102.

[0070] <Effects of Implementation Method 1>

[0071] According to Embodiment 1 described above, in the headlight device 100, in the emission direction (specifically in front of the beam splitter 30), a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101 coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102. Therefore, in the headlight device 100, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101 and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102. As a result, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100 coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100.

[0072] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, the imaging optical system 102 of the headlight device 100 includes a beam splitter 30. The beam splitter 30 has a central portion 32a serving as an aperture portion, such that the diameter of the light L21 traveling toward the light-receiving portion 20 through the imaging optical system 102 (i.e., the beam splitter 30) is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it is incident on the imaging optical system 102 (i.e., the projection / imaging lens 50). As a result, it is difficult for the peripheral rays L22 in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 to enter the light-receiving portion 20. As a result, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 20 is reduced, and therefore, the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 20 can be improved.

[0073] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 1, the projection / camera lens 50 is shared in both the projection optical system 101 and the imaging optical system 102. This improves the design flexibility of the headlight assembly 100.

[0074] Variation 1 of Implementation Method 1

[0075] In the above embodiment 1, the structure of the headlight device 100 having a projection / camera lens 50 was described. Even without the projection / camera lens 50, the headlight device 100 can still be implemented. Figure 6 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100a of a variation of Embodiment 1. Figure 6 In the middle, to and Figure 1 The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels. Figure 1 The labels shown are the same.

[0076] like Figure 6 As shown, the headlight assembly 100a includes a light source 10, a light receiving section 20, and a beam splitter 30. In a variation of Embodiment 1, the projection optical system 101a is composed of the light source 10 and the beam splitter 30. Therefore, in Figure 6 In the example shown, the light L1 emitted from the light source 10 is projected forward after passing through the beam splitter 30.

[0077] Furthermore, in a variation of Embodiment 1, the imaging optical system 102a is composed of a beam splitter 30 and a light-receiving unit 20. Therefore, in Figure 6 In the example shown, the incident light L2 from the outside is reflected by the beam splitter 30 and directed toward the light receiving part 20.

[0078] According to a variation of Embodiment 1 described above, the beam splitter 30 is shared in both the projection optical system 101a and the imaging optical system 102a of the headlight device 100a. That is, in the emission direction (specifically, in front of the beam splitter 30), a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101a coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102a. Therefore, in the headlight device 100a, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101a and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102a. Consequently, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100a coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100a.

[0079] Furthermore, according to a variation of Embodiment 1, the central portion 32a is configured such that the diameter of the light L21 traveling toward the light-receiving portion 20 through the imaging optical system 102a (i.e., beam splitter 30) is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it enters the imaging optical system 102a (i.e., beam splitter 30). As a result, the peripheral rays L22 in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 20. Consequently, the aberrations of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 20 are reduced, thus improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 20.

[0080] Furthermore, according to a variation of Embodiment 1, the projection optical system 101a of the headlight device 100a consists of a light source unit 10 and a beam splitter 30, and the imaging optical system 102a consists of a beam splitter 30 and a light receiving unit 20. Therefore, compared to the headlight device 100 of Embodiment 1, the headlight device 100a has fewer components constituting the projection optical system 101a and the imaging optical system 102a, thus enabling miniaturization of the headlight device 100a.

[0081] Variation 2 of Implementation Method 1

[0082] In Embodiment 1 described above, an example was given in which the headlight assembly 100 has a projection / imaging lens 50 as a second optical element. In a variation 2 of Embodiment 1, an example was given in which the headlight assembly 100, in addition to the projection / imaging lens 50, also has a converging lens 60 as a second optical element. Figure 7 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100b in a variation of Embodiment 1, Example 2. Figure 7 In the middle, to and Figure 1The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels. Figure 1 The labels shown are the same.

[0083] like Figure 7 As shown, the headlight assembly 100b includes a light source unit 10, a light receiving unit 20, a beam splitter 30, a projection / imaging lens 50 as a first optical component, and a converging lens 60 as a second optical component. In a variation 2 of Embodiment 1, the headlight assembly 100b includes multiple lenses (i.e., the projection / imaging lens 50 and the converging lens 60) as the second optical component. Furthermore, in a variation 2 of Embodiment 1, the projection optical system 101b is composed of the light source unit 10, the beam splitter 30, the projection / imaging lens 50, and the converging lens 60.

[0084] A converging lens 60 is positioned on the optical path of the light L1 emitted from the light source 10 and directed toward the beam splitter 30. Figure 7 In the example shown, a converging lens 60 is disposed between the light source 10 and the beam splitter 30. The converging lens 60 has the function of converging the light L1 emitted from the light source 10 toward the beam splitter 30. Therefore, the converging lens 60 can modify the light distribution pattern of the incident light L1. That is, the converging lens 60 is a light distribution modification lens that modifies the light distribution pattern of the light L1. Figure 7 In the example shown, the projection optical system 101b has one converging lens 60. Alternatively, the projection optical system 101b may have multiple converging lenses 60. That is, the projection optical system 101b may have one or more converging lenses 60. Furthermore, the second optical component that guides the light L1 emitted from the light source 10 to the beam splitter 30 may also be a combination of the converging lens 60 and a reflector.

[0085] exist Figure 7In this design, the optical axis of the converging lens 60 is denoted by C6. The optical axis C10 of the light source unit 10 and the optical axis C6 of the converging lens 60 are located on the same straight line. That is, the optical axis C10 and the optical axis C6 are aligned. Furthermore, even if the optical axis C10 and the optical axis C6 are not aligned, the headlight device 100b can still be implemented. The converging lens 60 may, for example, have a rotationally symmetric shape with the optical axis C6 as the rotation axis. The converging lens 60 may also be a lens with a rotationally asymmetric shape. The converging lens 60 may, for example, be an aspherical lens. In this case, the sag of the surface of the converging lens 60 may differ from each other in the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction. Furthermore, the sag on the +y-axis side of the optical axis C6 and the sag on the -y-axis side of the optical axis C6 may also differ from each other. The surface of the converging lens 60 may also be a freeform surface. Furthermore, the surface of the converging lens 60 may be eccentric relative to the optical axis C6. Furthermore, the surface of the converging lens 60 may also be inclined in the y-axis direction relative to the direction perpendicular to the optical axis C6. The converging lens 60 is formed, for example, from a plastic material such as PC (Poly Carbonate) resin or from a glass material. Figure 7 The example shown illustrates a headlight device 100b with a projection / camera lens 50. However, the headlight device 100b can be implemented even without the projection / camera lens 50.

[0086] According to a variation of Embodiment 1 described above, the beam splitter 30 and the projection / imaging lens 50 are shared in the projection optical system 101b and the imaging optical system 102 of the headlight device 100b. That is, in the outgoing direction (specifically in front of the beam splitter 30), a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101b is aligned with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102. Therefore, in the headlight device 100b, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101b and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102. As a result, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100b and the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100b coincide.

[0087] Furthermore, according to a variation 2 of embodiment 1, the central portion 32a is configured such that the diameter of the light L21 traveling toward the light-receiving portion 20 through the imaging optical system 102 (i.e., beam splitter 30) is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 incident on the imaging optical system 102 (i.e., projection / imaging lens 50). As a result, the peripheral rays L22 in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 20. Consequently, the aberrations of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 20 are reduced, thus improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 20.

[0088] Furthermore, according to a variation 2 of embodiment 1, the projection optical system 101b of the headlight device 100b includes a converging lens 60, which is disposed in the optical path of the light L1 emitted from the light source 10 toward the beam splitter 30. Therefore, the light distribution pattern of the light L1 can be changed by the converging lens 60 before projecting the light L1 forward. This increases the design freedom of the light distribution pattern of the light L1.

[0089] Variation 3 of Implementation Method 1

[0090] In Embodiment 1 described above, an example was given of a headlight assembly 100 having a projection / image-capturing lens 50 as a second optical element. In Modification 3 of Embodiment 1, an example was given of a headlight assembly 100c having an imaging lens 70 as a second optical element in addition to the projection / image-capturing lens 50. Figure 8 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100c of a variation of Embodiment 1, Example 3. Figure 8 In the middle, to and Figure 1 The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels. Figure 1 The labels shown are the same.

[0091] like Figure 8 As shown, the headlight assembly 100c includes a light source unit 10, a light receiving unit 20, a beam splitter 30, a projection / imaging lens 50 as a first optical component, and an imaging lens 70 as a third optical component. In a variation 3 of Embodiment 1, the headlight assembly 100b includes multiple lenses (i.e., the projection / imaging lens 50 and the imaging lens 70) as a second optical component. Furthermore, in a variation 3 of Embodiment 1, the imaging optical system 102c is constructed by the projection / imaging lens 50, the beam splitter 30, the imaging lens 70, and the light receiving unit 20.

[0092] The imaging lens 70 is positioned on the optical path of the light L21 that passes through the beam splitter 30 and is directed toward the light-receiving part 20. Figure 8 In the example shown, the imaging lens 70 is positioned between the beam splitter 30 and the light-receiving part 20. The imaging lens 70 has the function of imaging the light L21 reflected by the beam splitter 30 onto the light-receiving part 20. The imaging lens 70 can be a spherical lens or an aspherical lens.

[0093] exist Figure 8 In the diagram, the optical axis of the imaging lens 70 is represented by C7. Figure 8In the example shown, on the +z axis side of the beam splitter 30, the optical axis C7 coincides with the optical axis C5 of the projection / imaging lens 50. With the optical axes C7 and C5 aligned, it is easier to guide the central beam L20 of the incident light L2, which travels on the optical axis C1, to the light-receiving section 20. Therefore, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving section 20 is reduced, improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving section 20.

[0094] The imaging lens 70 is formed of a plastic material such as PMMA (Polymethyl methacrylate) resin or a glass material. By having the imaging lens 70 in the imaging optical system 102c, the optical surface for controlling the light L21 incident on the light-receiving part 20 is increased. This improves the design freedom of the imaging optical system 102c. Furthermore, the third optical component that guides the incident light L2 reflected by the beam splitter 30 to the light-receiving part 20 can also be constructed from a combination of the imaging lens 70 and a reflector.

[0095] exist Figure 8 In the example shown, the beam splitter 30 is positioned between the projection / imaging lens 50 and the imaging lens 70. Thus, in the imaging optical system 102c, the beam splitter 30 functions similarly to an aperture located within a typical imaging optical system. Specifically, the beam splitter 30 can confine the light incident on the light-receiving section 20 into a central beam L20 traveling along and near the optical axis C1, i.e., in the paraxial region. Therefore, vignetting of the light rays imaged on the light-receiving section 20 can be prevented. This reduces peripheral light reduction on the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving section 20.

[0096] Furthermore, the imaging optical system 102c is a symmetrical optical system or an optical system similar to a symmetrical optical system centered on the plane containing the light-reflecting surface 32 of the beam splitter 30. This reduces distortion aberrations in the image imaged on the light-receiving section 20. Therefore, peripheral light reduction on the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving section 20 can be reduced. Additionally, in Figure 8 The example shown illustrates a headlight device 100c with a projection / camera lens 50. However, the headlight device 100c can be implemented even without the projection / camera lens 50.

[0097] According to a variation of Embodiment 1 described above, in the projection optical system 101 and the imaging optical system 102c of the headlight device 100c, the beam splitter 30 and the projection / imaging lens 50 are shared. That is, in the outgoing direction (specifically in front of the beam splitter 30), a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101 coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102c. Therefore, in the headlight device 100c, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101 and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102c. As a result, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100c coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100c.

[0098] Furthermore, according to a variation of Embodiment 1, the central portion 32a is configured such that the diameter of the light L21 traveling toward the light-receiving portion 20 through the imaging optical system 102c (i.e., beam splitter 30) is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 incident on the imaging optical system 102c (i.e., projection / imaging lens 50). The peripheral rays L22 in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 20. Therefore, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 20 is reduced. This improves the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 20.

[0099] Furthermore, according to a variation 3 of Embodiment 1, the imaging optical system 102c of the headlight device 100c includes an imaging lens 70, which is disposed on the optical path of the light L21 that passes through the beam splitter 30 and is directed toward the light receiving section 20. This increases the number of optical surfaces that can control the light L21 incident on the light receiving section 20. Consequently, the design freedom of the imaging optical system 102c can be improved.

[0100] Variation 4 of Implementation Method 1

[0101] In Embodiment 1 described above, an example of a headlight device 100 having a projection / image-capturing lens 50 was described. In Modification 4 of Embodiment 1, an example of a headlight device 100d having a converging lens 60 as described in Modification 2 of Embodiment 1 and an imaging lens 70 as described in Modification 3 of Embodiment 1, based on the projection / image-capturing lens 50, was described. Figure 9 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100d in a variation of Embodiment 1, Example 4. Figure 9 In the middle, to and Figure 1 The structural elements shown are the same or corresponding structural element labels. Figure 1 The same labels are shown.

[0102] like Figure 9As shown, the headlight assembly 100d includes a light source unit 10, a light receiving unit 20, a beam splitter 30, a projection / image-capturing lens 50, a converging lens 60, and an imaging lens 70. In a variation 4 of Embodiment 1, the projection optical system 101d is constructed using the light source unit 10, the converging lens 60, the beam splitter 30, and the projection / image-capturing lens 50. Furthermore, the imaging optical system 102d is constructed using the projection / image-capturing lens 50, the beam splitter 30, the imaging lens 70, and the light receiving unit 20. That is, the beam splitter 30 and the projection / image-capturing lens 50 are shared in both the projection optical system 101d and the imaging optical system 102d of the headlight assembly 100d.

[0103] According to a variation 4 of Embodiment 1 described above, the beam splitter 30 and the projection / imaging lens 50 are shared in the projection optical system 101d and the imaging optical system 102d of the headlight device 100d. That is, in the outgoing direction (specifically in front of the beam splitter 30), a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101d coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102d. Therefore, in the headlight device 100d, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101d and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102d. As a result, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100d coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100d.

[0104] Furthermore, according to Variation 4 of Embodiment 1, the central portion 32a is configured such that the diameter of the light L21 traveling toward the light-receiving portion 20 through the imaging optical system 102d (i.e., beam splitter 30) is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 incident on the imaging optical system 102d (i.e., projection / imaging lens 50). The peripheral rays L22 in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 20. Therefore, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 20 is reduced. This improves the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 20.

[0105] Furthermore, according to a variation 4 of Embodiment 1, the projection optical system 101d includes a converging lens 60 disposed in the optical path of light L1 emitted from the light source 10 toward the beam splitter 30, and the imaging optical system 102d includes an imaging lens 70 disposed in the optical path of light L21 passing through the beam splitter 30 toward the light receiving unit 20. This increases the design freedom of the light distribution pattern of light L1 and the design freedom of the imaging optical system 102d.

[0106] Variation 5 of Implementation Method 1

[0107] In Embodiment 1 described above, an example was given of a beam splitter 30 having a central portion 32a disposed on the optical axis C1 and a peripheral portion 32b disposed outside the central portion 32a. In Modification 5 of Embodiment 1, an example was given of a beam splitter 30e having only a central portion 32e. Figure 10 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100e in variant 5 of embodiment 1. Figure 10 In the middle, to and Figure 3 The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels. Figure 3 The labels shown are the same.

[0108] like Figure 10 As shown, the headlight assembly 100e includes a light source 10, a light receiver 20, a beam splitter 30e, and a projection / imaging lens 50. In a variation 5 of Embodiment 1, the light source 10, the beam splitter 30e, and the projection / imaging lens 50 constitute a projection optical system 101e, and the projection / imaging lens 50, the beam splitter 30e, and the light receiver 20 constitute an imaging optical system 102e.

[0109] The projection optical system 101e and the imaging optical system 102e share a beam splitter 30e and a projection / imaging lens 50. Therefore, the projection optical system 101e and the imaging optical system 102e have a common optical axis C5. That is, in the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101e coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102e. This makes it easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100e and the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100e coincide.

[0110] The beam splitter 30e has a central portion 32e, which is an aperture portion, disposed on the optical axis C1. The central portion 32e reflects a portion of the incident light L2 (i.e., the central beam L20) traveling in the incident direction and guides it to the light receiving portion 20. That is, the central portion 32e is a light reflecting portion that reflects the central beam L20 of the incident light L2 that travels in the paraxial region.

[0111] Furthermore, in variation 5 of embodiment 1, the shape of the central portion 32e is, for example, circular. Alternatively, the shape of the central portion 32e can also be elliptical or other shapes. The diameter of the central portion 32e is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 incident on the imaging optical system 102e. Therefore, the peripheral rays L22 traveling away from the optical axis C1 in the incident light L2 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 20. Consequently, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 20 is reduced. Thus, the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 20 can be improved.

[0112] In a variation 5 of embodiment 1, the light L1 emitted from the light source 10 passes through the central portion 32e and also passes through the region on the outer side of the beam divider 30e.

[0113] According to a variation 5 of Embodiment 1 described above, in the headlight device 100e, a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101e coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102e in the emission direction (i.e., in front of the beam splitter 30). Therefore, in the headlight device 100e, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101e and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102e. As a result, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100e coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100e.

[0114] Furthermore, according to a variation 5 of Embodiment 1, the imaging optical system 102e of the headlight device 100e includes a beam splitter 30e that reflects a portion of the incident light L2 and guides it to the light-receiving section 20. This beam splitter 30e has a central portion 32e serving as an aperture portion. The central portion 32e guides the center beam L20 of the incident light L2 to the light-receiving section, such that the diameter of the light L21 traveling towards the light-receiving section 20 through the imaging optical system 102e is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it enters the imaging optical system 102e. As a result, the peripheral rays L22 traveling away from the optical axis C1 in the incident light L2 are less likely to enter the light-receiving section 20. Therefore, the aberrations of the image formed on the light-receiving section 20 are reduced. This improves the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving section 20.

[0115] Variation 6 of Implementation Method 1

[0116] In Embodiment 1 described above, an example of a beam splitter 30 with an aperture section that reflects a portion of the incident light L2 and guides it to the light-receiving section 20 was described. In Modification 6 of Embodiment 1, an example of a separate aperture section and beam splitter 30 was described. Figure 11 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 100f in a variation of Embodiment 1, Example 6. Figure 11 In the middle, to and Figure 3 The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels. Figure 3 The labels shown are the same.

[0117] like Figure 11As shown, the headlight assembly 100f includes a light source unit 10, a light receiving unit 20, a first optical unit 30f, and a projection / imaging lens 50. The first optical unit 30f includes a beam splitter 31 and a light-shielding plate 35, which serves as an aperture unit. The beam splitter 31 is disposed on the optical axis C1. The beam splitter 31 reflects a portion of the incident light L2 traveling in the incident direction toward the light-shielding plate 35. In a variation 6 of Embodiment 1, the projection optical system 101f is constructed using the light source unit 10, the beam splitter 31, and the projection / imaging lens 50. Furthermore, in a variation 6 of Embodiment 1, the imaging optical system 102f is constructed using the projection / imaging lens 50, the beam splitter 31, the light-shielding plate 35, and the light receiving unit 20.

[0118] The projection optical system 101f and the imaging optical system 102f share a beam splitter 31 and a projection / imaging lens 50. Therefore, the projection optical system 101f and the imaging optical system 102f have a common optical axis C5 in front of the beam splitter 31. That is, in the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101f coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102f. This makes it easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100f coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100f.

[0119] The light-shielding plate 35 is a light-shielding member disposed in the y-axis direction between the beam splitter 31 and the light-receiving part 20. The light-shielding plate 35 has an opening 35a that serves as an aperture part. In the light-shielding plate 35, the part other than the opening 35a is a light-shielding part 35b that blocks the peripheral light rays L22 in the incident light L2 reflected by the beam splitter 31.

[0120] exist Figure 11 In the example shown, the opening 35a is located on the optical axis C20 of the light-receiving section 20. The opening 35a allows a portion of the incident light L2 reflected by the beam splitter 31 toward the light-receiving section 20, i.e., the central beam L20, to pass as light L21. The opening 35a is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it is incident on the imaging optical system 102f (i.e., the projection / imaging lens 50). Thus, the opening 35a makes the diameter of the light L21 traveling toward the light-receiving section 20 through the imaging optical system 102f (i.e., the light shield 35) smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it is incident on the imaging optical system 102f (i.e., the projection / imaging lens 50). In addition, the light shield 35 is not limited to being disposed between the beam splitter 31 and the light-receiving section 20, but can also be disposed on the +z axis side of the beam splitter 31 (e.g., between the beam splitter 31 and the projection / imaging lens 50). Furthermore, the headlight device 100f has Figure 8 In the case of the camera lens 70 shown in Figure 9, the light shield 35 may also be provided at or near the camera lens 70.

[0121] According to a variation of Embodiment 1 described above, in the headlight device 100f, a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101f and a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102f are aligned in the emission direction (specifically, in front of the beam splitter 31). Therefore, in the headlight device 100f, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 101f and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 102f. As a result, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 100f and the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 100f coincide.

[0122] Furthermore, according to a variation of Embodiment 1, the imaging optical system 102f of the headlight device 100f includes a light-shielding plate 35 having an opening 35a as an aperture portion, the opening 35a being smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 incident on the imaging optical system 102f. Thus, the opening 35a makes the diameter of the light L21 traveling towards the light-receiving portion 20 through the imaging optical system 102f smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 incident on the imaging optical system 102f. Consequently, the peripheral rays L22 of the incident light L2 traveling at positions away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 20. Therefore, the aberrations of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 20 are reduced, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 20.

[0123] Implementation Method 2

[0124] In Embodiment 1 described above, an example was given of incident light L2, after being reflected by the central portion 32a of the beam splitter 30, being incident on the light-receiving portion 20. In Embodiment 2, an example was given of specifying the area and reflectivity of the central portion 32a. Apart from this, the headlight device of Embodiment 2 is the same as the headlight device 100 of Embodiment 1. Therefore, in the following description, reference will be made to... Figures 1-3 .

[0125] In embodiment 2, the area of ​​the central portion 32a is less than 20% of the area of ​​the light-reflecting surface 32. That is, the light beam of L21 incident on the light-receiving portion 20 is limited to incident on the imaging optical system 102 (in... Figures 1-3In the example shown, the effective cross-sectional area of ​​the incident light L2 beam when using a projection / photography lens 50 is less than 20%. Therefore, compared to a beam splitter that is a semi-transparent mirror, aberrations in the image formed on the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving section 20 can be reduced. Furthermore, in the case of a semi-transparent mirror, the illumination light transmitted through the optical components and the incident light reflected by the optical components are uniform. In contrast, the area of ​​the central portion 32a is less than 20% of the area of ​​the light-reflecting surface 32, resulting in less light passing through the vicinity of the optical axis C1 in the light L1, but more light passing through the peripheral portion 32b. Therefore, the maximum luminous intensity of the light L1 transmitted through the beam splitter 30 can be the same as or greater than the maximum luminous intensity of the illumination light transmitted through the semi-transparent mirror.

[0126] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the reflectivity of the central portion 32a is greater than 50% and less than 100%. Therefore, when a semi-transparent mirror is used in the peripheral portion 32b, compared to a structure where the entire beam splitter is a semi-transparent mirror, the central beam L20 of the incident light L2 traveling in the paraxial region of the optical axis C1 is more likely to be incident on the light-receiving portion 20.

[0127] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing an example of a spot pattern of light incident on the light-receiving section 20 of the headlight device of Embodiment 2. Figure 12 The light spot diagram shown is of the illuminated surface 22 (reference). Figure 5 The spot pattern at the intersection of the light-receiving part 20 and the optical axis C20. Figure 12 In the light spot diagram shown, the distribution of the intersection points of light L21 and the light-receiving surface 22 of the light-receiving part 20, i.e., the RMS (Root Mean Square) radius of the light spot size, is 15.338 μm.

[0128] Figure 13 This is an example diagram showing a spot pattern of light incident on the light-receiving portion of the headlight device of the comparative example. The headlight device of the comparative example differs from the headlight device of Embodiment 2 in that the optical component is a semi-transparent mirror. Figure 13 The light spot diagram shown is the light spot diagram at the center position of the light receiving surface 22 when the incident angle of the light ray relative to the optical axis of the light receiving part is 0 degrees. Figure 13In the illustrated spot diagram, the RMS radius representing the spot size is 1451.20 μm. That is, by making the area of ​​the central portion 32a less than 20% of the area of ​​the light-reflecting surface 32 and the reflectivity of the central portion 32a greater than 50% and less than 100%, the spot size of the image imaged on the light-receiving surface 22 can be reduced. For example, when the central portion 32a is set as a circle 20% of the area of ​​the light-reflecting surface 32, the spot size (area) in the headlight device of Embodiment 2 is approximately 14%. By further reducing the area of ​​the central portion 32a, the spot size (area) in the headlight device of Embodiment 2 can be considered smaller than approximately 14%.

[0129] According to Embodiment 2 described above, the area of ​​the central portion 32a is 20% or less of the area of ​​the light reflecting surface 32, and the reflectivity of the central portion 32a is greater than 50% and less than 100%. Therefore, aberrations in the image imaged on the light-receiving portion 20 can be reduced, and the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 20 can be improved.

[0130] Implementation Method 3

[0131] In Embodiment 1 described above, an example was given where light L1 emitted from the light source 10 passes through the beam splitter 30 and is emitted in the emission direction, and incident light L2 is reflected by the beam splitter 30 and enters the light receiving section 20. In Embodiment 3, an example was given where light L1 emitted from the light source 310 is reflected by the beam splitter 330 and is emitted in the emission direction, and incident light L2 passes through the beam splitter 330 and enters the light receiving section 320. Figure 14 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 300 in Embodiment 3. Figure 14 In the middle, to and Figure 1 The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels. Figure 1 The labels shown are the same.

[0132] like Figure 14 As shown, the headlight assembly 300 includes a light source 310, a light-receiving section 320, a beam splitter 330 serving as a first optical section, and a projection / imaging lens 50. The beam splitter 330 is disposed on the optical axis C1. In Embodiment 3, the light source 310, the beam splitter 330, and the projection / imaging lens 50 constitute a projection optical system 301, and the projection / imaging lens 50, the beam splitter 330, and the light-receiving section 320 constitute an imaging optical system 302.

[0133] The projection optical system 301 and the imaging optical system 302 share a beam splitter 330 and a projection / imaging lens 50. Therefore, the projection optical system 301 and the imaging optical system 302 have a common optical axis C5 in front of the beam splitter 330. That is, in the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301 coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302. Consequently, in the headlight assembly 300, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301 and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302. This makes it easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 emanating from the headlight assembly 300 coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight assembly 300.

[0134] exist Figure 14 In the example shown, the light source 310 is positioned on the -y-axis side of the beam splitter 330. The beam splitter 330 reflects the light L1 incident from the -y-axis side and emits it as light L3 towards the +z-axis side. Alternatively, the light source 310 may also be positioned on the +y-axis side of the beam splitter 330.

[0135] The light-receiving part 320 is positioned on the -z axis side of the beam splitter 330. The beam splitter 330 allows incident light L2, which passes through the projection / photography lens 50, to pass through and guide it to the light-receiving part 320. That is, in embodiment 3, the beam splitter 330 reflects light L1 and emits it in the outgoing direction, and allows incident light L2 to pass through and guide it to the light-receiving part 320.

[0136] The beam splitter 330 has a light-reflecting surface 332 that reflects light L1 and transmits incident light L2. The light-reflecting surface 332 has a central portion 332a that serves as an aperture portion. The central portion 332a is disposed on the optical axis C1. The central portion 332a is a light-transmitting portion that transmits the central beam L20 of the incident light L2 that travels in the paraxial region and guides it to the light-receiving portion 320. The central beam L20 after passing through the central portion 332a travels in the -z-axis direction as light L21 toward the light-receiving portion 320.

[0137] The central portion 332a guides the central beam L20 to the light-receiving portion 320, such that the diameter of the light L21 traveling towards the light-receiving portion 320 through the imaging optical system 302 is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it enters the imaging optical system 302. Therefore, the peripheral rays L22 in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 320. As a result, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 320 is reduced, thus improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 320.

[0138] The light-reflecting surface 332 also has a peripheral portion 332b, which is disposed outside the central portion 332a to reflect light L1. The reflectivity of the peripheral portion 332b is greater than that of the central portion 332a. Therefore, the peripheral ray L22 in the incident light L2, which travels at a position away from the optical axis C1, is reflected by the peripheral portion 332b. That is, the peripheral ray L22 in the incident light L2 has difficulty passing through the beam splitter 330, and thus, it is difficult for the peripheral ray L22 to enter the light-receiving portion 320. As a result, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 320 is reduced, thereby further improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 320.

[0139] An AR coating, for example, can be applied to the central portion 332a. Alternatively, an AR coating may not be applied to the central portion 332a. A metal vapor deposition or dielectric beam splitter coating, for example, can be applied to the peripheral portion 332b. The shape of the central portion 332a is, for example, circular. However, the shape of the central portion 332a is not limited to a circle and may be other shapes. Furthermore, multiple reflection regions with different reflectivities can be continuously formed in the light reflecting surface 332, so that the reflectivity decreases smoothly as it approaches the optical axis C1 from the outer edge of the beam splitter 330. Furthermore, multiple reflection regions can be discretely formed in the light reflecting surface 332, so that the reflectivity decreases in stages as it approaches the optical axis C1 from the outer edge of the beam splitter 330. From the viewpoint of effectively guiding the incident light L2 traveling near the optical axis C1 to the light receiving portion 320, it is preferable to configure the light reflecting surface 332 to continuously form multiple reflection regions with different reflectivities, so that the reflectivity decreases smoothly as it approaches the optical axis C1.

[0140] According to Embodiment 3 described above, in the headlight device 300, in the emission direction (specifically, in front of the beam splitter 330), a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301 coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302. Therefore, in the headlight device 300, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301 and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302. Thus, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 300 coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 300.

[0141] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 3, the imaging optical system 302 of the headlight device 300 includes a beam splitter 330 that allows a portion of the incident light L2 to pass through. This beam splitter 330 has a central portion 332a, which serves as an aperture portion, disposed on the optical axis C1. The central portion 332a guides the central beam L20 of the incident light L2 to the light-receiving portion 320, such that the diameter of the light L21 traveling towards the light-receiving portion 320 through the imaging optical system 302 is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it enters the imaging optical system 302. As a result, the peripheral rays L22 of the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 320. Consequently, the aberrations of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 320 are reduced, thus improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 320.

[0142] Variation 1 of Implementation Method 3

[0143] In Embodiment 3 described above, an example was given where the aperture portion is a light-transmitting portion of the beam splitter 330 that allows a portion of the incident light L2 to pass through and guide it to the light-receiving portion 320. In Modification 1 of Embodiment 3, an example was given where the aperture portion is provided in the opening 330c of the beam splitter 330a. Figure 15 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 300a of a variation of Embodiment 3, Example 1. Figure 15 In the middle, to and Figure 14 The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels. Figure 14 The labels shown are the same.

[0144] like Figure 15 As shown, the headlight assembly 300a includes a light source 310, a light receiver 320, a beam splitter 330a, and a projection / imaging lens 50. In a variation 1 of Embodiment 3, the light source 310, the beam splitter 330a, and the projection / imaging lens 50 constitute a projection optical system 301a, and the projection / imaging lens 50, the beam splitter 330a, and the light receiver 320 constitute an imaging optical system 302a.

[0145] The projection optical system 301a and the imaging optical system 302a share a beam splitter 330a and a projection / imaging lens 50. Therefore, the projection optical system 301a and the imaging optical system 302a have a common optical axis C5 in front of the beam splitter 330a. That is, in the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301a coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302a. As a result, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 300a and the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 300a coincide.

[0146] Beam splitter 330a has a central portion 332a that serves as an aperture portion. The central portion 332a has an opening 330c that guides a portion of the incident light L2 traveling in the incident direction, namely the central beam L20, to the light-receiving portion 320. The opening 330c allows the diameter of the light L21 traveling towards the light-receiving portion 320 through the imaging optical system 302a (i.e., beam splitter 330a) to be smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it is incident on the imaging optical system 302a (i.e., the projection / imaging lens 50). The central beam L10 of the light L1 emitted from the light source portion 310 passes through the opening 330c. Furthermore, the peripheral rays L12 of the light L1 emitted from the light source portion 310 are reflected by the peripheral portion 332b of the beam splitter 330a and emitted as light L3 towards the +z axis.

[0147] According to a variation of Embodiment 3 described above, in the headlight device 300a, in the emission direction (specifically, in front of the beam splitter 330a), a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301a coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302a. Therefore, in the headlight device 300a, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301a and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302a. This makes it easier to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 300a coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 300a.

[0148] Furthermore, according to a variation of Embodiment 3, the imaging optical system 302a of the headlight device 300a includes a beam splitter 330a, which has a central portion 332a, which serves as an aperture portion, disposed on the optical axis C1. The central portion 332a has an opening 330c, which allows the diameter of the light L21 traveling through the imaging optical system 302a toward the light-receiving portion 320 to be smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it enters the imaging optical system 302a. As a result, peripheral rays L22 in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving portion 320. Consequently, the aberrations of the image formed on the light-receiving portion 320 are reduced, thus improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving portion 320.

[0149] Variation 2 of Implementation Method 3

[0150] In Embodiment 3 described above, an example in which the aperture portion is disposed within the beam splitter 330 was described. In Modification 2 of Embodiment 3, an example in which the aperture portion and the beam splitter 331b are separate was described. Figure 16 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 300b in a variation of Embodiment 3, Example 2. Figure 16 In the middle, to and Figure 14 The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels.Figure 14 The labels shown are the same.

[0151] like Figure 16 As shown, the headlight assembly 300b includes a light source 310, a light-receiving section 320, a first optical section 330b, and a projection / imaging lens 50. The first optical section 330b includes a beam splitter 331b and a light-shielding plate 335, which serves as an aperture section. In a variation 2 of Embodiment 3, the light source 310, the beam splitter 331b, and the projection / imaging lens 50 constitute a projection optical system 301b. Furthermore, in a variation 2 of Embodiment 3, the projection / imaging lens 50, the first optical section 330b (i.e., the beam splitter 331b and the light-shielding plate 335), and the light-receiving section 320 constitute an imaging optical system 302b.

[0152] The projection optical system 301b and the imaging optical system 302b share a beam splitter 331b and a projection / imaging lens 50. Therefore, the projection optical system 301b and the imaging optical system 302b have a common optical axis C5 in front of the beam splitter 331b. That is, in the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301b coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302b.

[0153] Beam splitter 331b is disposed on optical axis C1. Beam splitter 331b has a light-reflecting surface 332 that reflects light L1 and allows incident light L2 to pass through. Beam splitter 331b allows incident light L2 to pass through and directs the incident light L2 toward light shield 335.

[0154] exist Figure 16 In the example shown, the light-shielding plate 335 is a light-shielding component disposed between the beam splitter 331b and the light-receiving part 320. The light-shielding plate 335 has an opening 335a disposed on the optical axis C1. In the light-shielding plate 335, the portion other than the opening 335a is the light-shielding portion 335b that blocks the peripheral light rays L22 in the incident light L2 after passing through the beam splitter 331b.

[0155] The aperture 335a is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it enters the imaging optical system 302b. The aperture 335a allows a portion of the incident light L2, namely the central beam L20, from the beam splitter 331b towards the light-receiving unit 320 to pass through. Therefore, the aperture 335a makes the diameter of the light L21 traveling towards the light-receiving unit 320 after passing through the imaging optical system 302b smaller than the diameter of the light L2 when it enters the imaging optical system 302b. Consequently, the peripheral rays L22 of the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 are less likely to enter the light-receiving unit 320. Therefore, the aberrations of the image formed on the light-receiving unit 320 are reduced, thus improving the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving unit 320.

[0156] According to Variation 2 of Embodiment 3 described above, in the headlight device 300b, in the emission direction (specifically, in front of the beam splitter 331b), a portion of the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301b coincides with a portion of the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302b. Therefore, in the headlight device 300b, there is no need for a process of adjusting the optical axis C1 of the projection optical system 301b and the optical axis C2 of the imaging optical system 302b. Consequently, it is easy to make the illumination range of the light L1 irradiated from the headlight device 300b coincide with the incident range of the incident light L2 incident on the headlight device 300b.

[0157] Furthermore, according to a variation 2 of embodiment 3, the imaging optical system 302b of the headlight device 300b includes a first optical section 330b, which has a light-shielding plate 335 as an aperture section with an opening 335a. The opening 335a is disposed on the optical axis C1 and is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it is incident on the imaging optical system 302b. As a result, the diameter of the light L21 traveling towards the light-receiving section 320 through the imaging optical system 302b is smaller than the diameter of the incident light L2 when it is incident on the imaging optical system 302b. As a result, it is difficult for the peripheral light rays L22 in the incident light L2 that travel away from the optical axis C1 to enter the light-receiving section 320. Therefore, the aberration of the image formed on the light-receiving section 320 is reduced, and thus, the detection accuracy of the incident light L2 in the light-receiving section 320 can be improved.

[0158] Implementation Method 4

[0159] In Embodiment 1 described above, an example was given in which the light-transmitting surface 33 and the light-reflecting surface 32 of the beam splitter 31 are parallel to each other. In Embodiment 4, an example was given in which the surface on which the incident light L1 and the surface on which the incident incident light L2 are incident are not parallel to each other. Figure 17 This is a side view that schematically shows the main structure of the headlight device 400 in Embodiment 4. Figure 17 In the middle, to and Figure 1 The structural elements shown are the same as or correspond to the structural element labels. Figure 1 The labels shown are the same.

[0160] like Figure 17 As shown, the headlight assembly 400 includes a light source unit 10, a light receiving unit 20, a beam splitter 430, and a projection / imaging lens 50. The beam splitter 430 is disposed on the optical axis C1. In Embodiment 4, the light source unit 10, the beam splitter 430, and the projection / imaging lens 50 constitute a projection optical system 401. Furthermore, the projection / imaging lens 50, the beam splitter 430, and the light receiving unit 20 constitute an imaging optical system 402.

[0161] The beam splitter 430 has a first surface 432 for light L1 emitted from the light source 10 to enter, and a second surface 433 for incident light L2 to enter. In embodiment 4, the first surface 432 is a light-transmitting surface that allows light L1 to pass through and move towards the projection / imaging lens 50, and the second surface 433 is a light-reflecting surface that reflects the incident light L2 and moves towards the light-receiving part 20. That is, in Figure 17 In the example shown, the projection optical system 401 is the optical path that passes through the beam splitter 430, and the camera optical system 402 is the optical path that is reflected from the beam splitter 430.

[0162] Face 1 (432) and face 2 (433) are not parallel to each other. Figure 17 In the example shown, the angle θ1 formed by the first surface 432 and the optical axis C20 of the light-receiving part 20, which is the first angle, is smaller than the angle θ2 formed by the second surface 433 and the optical axis C20, which is the second angle. Therefore, when viewed from the x-axis direction, the beam splitter 430 has a wedge shape. In addition, angles θ1 and θ2 can also have tolerances.

[0163] Here, as Figure 17 As shown, when the projection optical system 401 is the optical path through the beam splitter 430 and the imaging optical system 402 is the optical path reflected by the beam splitter 430, the superimposed image of the light L25, which is incident on the interior of the beam splitter 430 and emitted from the second surface 433 after being reflected by the first surface 432, is also incident on the light-receiving surface of the light-receiving section 20, based on the image of the light L21 reflected by the second surface 433 in the incident light L2. Furthermore, with... Figure 17 In contrast, when the projection optical system is a beam splitter-reflected light path and the imaging optical system is a beam splitter-transmitted light path, in the light distribution pattern of the light projected in the outgoing direction, in addition to the light distribution pattern of the light reflected by the beam splitter's light reflecting surface, there is also a superimposed image of the light that enters the interior of the beam splitter from the light reflecting surface, is reflected by the light transmitting surface, and then exits from the light reflecting surface.

[0164] In embodiment 4, as described above, the angle θ1 formed by the first surface 432 and the optical axis C20 is different from the angle θ2 formed by the second surface 433 and the optical axis C20, and angle θ1 is smaller than angle θ2. Therefore, the imaging position of the superimposed image of light L25 in the light-receiving section 20 can be made consistent with the imaging position of the image of light L21. Thus, the superimposed image is corrected, and therefore, the detection accuracy of incident light L2 in the light-receiving section 20 can be further improved.

[0165] Furthermore, when the projection optical system is the light path reflected by the beam splitter and the imaging optical system is the light path transmitted through the beam splitter, the angles θ1 and θ2 are also different from each other. Thus, the light distribution pattern and the superimposed image can be made to coincide at a sufficient distance in the output direction.

[0166] According to Embodiment 4 described above, in the beam splitter 430, the first surface 432 on which incident light L1 is incident and the second surface 433 on which incident light L2 is incident are not parallel to each other. Specifically, the angle θ1 formed by the first surface 432 and the optical axis C20 is smaller than the angle θ2 formed by the second surface 433 and the optical axis C20. As a result, the imaging position of the superimposed image of light L25 in the light receiving section 20 can be made to coincide with the imaging position of the image of light L21. Therefore, the superimposed image is corrected, and thus, the detection accuracy of incident light L2 in the light receiving section 20 can be further improved.

[0167] Label Explanation

[0168] 10, 310: Light source section; 11: Light-emitting element; 12: Light-emitting surface; 20, 320: Light-receiving section; 21: Light-receiving element; 22: Light-receiving surface; 30, 30e, 31, 330, 330a, 331b, 430: Beam splitter; 30f, 330b: First optical section; 32, 332: Light reflecting surface; 32a, 32e, 332a: Central section (aperture section); 32b, 332b: Peripheral section; 33, 333: Light transmitting surface; 35, 335: Light shield (aperture section); 35a, 330c, 335a: Opening; 40: Light distribution control section; 50: Projection / imaging lens; 60: Converging lens; 70: Imaging lens; 90: Illumination lens. Projection surfaces; 100, 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d, 100e, 100f, 300, 300a, 300b, 400: Headlight assembly; 101, 101a, 101b, 101d, 101e, 101f, 301, 301a, 301b, 401: Projection optical system; 102, 102a, 102c, 102d, 102e, 302, 302a, 302b, 402: Camera optical system; 432: First surface; 433: Second surface; C1, C2, C5, C6, C7, C10, C20: Optical axes; L1, L3, L21: Light; L2: Incident light; L20: Central beam.

Claims

1. A headlight assembly, the headlight assembly comprising: A first optical system that emits a first beam in a predetermined emission direction; and A second optical system has a light-receiving part and a first optical part, and a second light traveling in an incident direction opposite to the said emission direction is incident on the second optical system. In the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis of the first optical system coincides with a portion of the optical axis of the second optical system. The first optical unit is a beam splitter that emits the first light in the emission direction and guides the second light traveling in the incident direction to the light receiving unit. The beam splitter has a central portion disposed on the optical axis of the first optical system, which reflects a portion of the second light traveling in the incident direction and guides that portion of the second light to the light-receiving portion. The central portion causes the diameter of the second light traveling toward the light-receiving portion through the second optical system to be smaller than the diameter of the second light incident on the second optical system.

2. The headlight device according to claim 1, wherein, The beam splitter also has a peripheral portion disposed outside the central portion, which allows the first light to pass through and reflects the second light. The reflectivity of the peripheral portion is less than that of the central portion.

3. The headlight device according to claim 1, wherein, The central portion is smaller than the diameter of the second light incident on the second optical system.

4. A headlight assembly, the headlight assembly comprising: A first optical system that emits a first beam in a predetermined emission direction; and A second optical system has a light-receiving part and a first optical part, and a second light traveling in an incident direction opposite to the said emission direction is incident on the second optical system. In the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis of the first optical system coincides with a portion of the optical axis of the second optical system. The first optical unit is a beam splitter that emits the first light in the emission direction and guides the second light traveling in the incident direction to the light receiving unit. The beam splitter has a central portion disposed on the optical axis of the first optical system, allowing a portion of the second light traveling in the incident direction to pass through and guiding that portion of the second light to the light-receiving portion. The central portion is such that the diameter of the second light traveling toward the light-receiving portion through the second optical system is smaller than the diameter of the second light incident on the second optical system. The beam splitter also has a peripheral portion disposed outside the central portion, which reflects the first light. The central portion reflects the first light. The reflectivity of the peripheral portion is greater than that of the central portion.

5. The headlight device according to claim 4, wherein, The central portion has a light-transmitting portion disposed on the optical axis of the first optical system, which allows a portion of the second light traveling in the incident direction to pass through.

6. The headlight device according to claim 4, wherein, The central portion has an opening disposed on the optical axis of the first optical system, allowing a portion of the second light traveling in the incident direction to pass through.

7. A headlight assembly comprising: A first optical system that emits a first beam in a predetermined emission direction; and A second optical system has a light-receiving part and a first optical part, and a second light traveling in an incident direction opposite to the said emission direction is incident on the second optical system. In the emission direction, a portion of the optical axis of the first optical system coincides with a portion of the optical axis of the second optical system. The first optical unit has a light-reflecting surface that reflects the second light and guides the second light to the light-receiving unit. The light-reflecting surface has a central portion disposed on the optical axis of the first optical system. The central portion is such that the diameter of the second light traveling toward the light-receiving portion through the second optical system is smaller than the diameter of the second light incident on the second optical system. The area of ​​the central portion is less than 20% of the area of ​​the light-reflecting surface. The reflectivity of the central portion is greater than 50% and less than 100%.

8. The headlight device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The first optical unit is a beam splitter that emits the first light in the emission direction and guides the second light traveling in the incident direction to the light receiving unit. The beam splitter has a first surface for the first light to be incident on and a second surface for the second light to be incident on. The first surface and the second surface are not parallel to each other.

9. The headlight assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The first angle between the first surface and the optical axis of the light-receiving part is smaller than the second angle between the second surface and the optical axis of the light-receiving part.

10. The headlight device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, At least one of the first optical system and the second optical system has a second optical part.

11. The headlight assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The second optical unit has a first optical component, which is disposed in the optical path of the first light traveling in the emission direction and in the optical path of the second light traveling in the incident direction.

12. The headlight assembly according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The first optical system includes a light source unit that emits the first light and the second optical unit. The second optical section has a second optical component, which is disposed on the optical path of the first light emitted from the light source section and toward the central section.

13. The headlight device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein, The second optical system includes the second optical unit. The second optical section has a third optical component, which is disposed on the optical path of the second light passing through the central section and toward the light-receiving section.

Images