Vehicle light system

Abstract

A vehicle lamp system (1) mounted on a vehicle (10). The vehicle lamp system (1) includes a first vehicle lamp unit (3) that emits light to a first area that is part of an area around the vehicle (10), and a vehicle lamp control section (6) that controls the first vehicle lamp unit (3). The first vehicle lamp unit (3) has a first road surface delineation vehicle lamp (32) that performs road surface delineation, and a first vehicle lamp (31). The vehicle lamp control section (6) is configured to switchably execute a first control that controls the first vehicle lamp unit (3) such that the first road surface delineation vehicle lamp (32) is lit or blinked in accordance with lighting or blinking of the first vehicle lamp (31), and a second control that performs a different control on the first road surface delineation vehicle lamp (32) than the first control.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to vehicle lighting systems. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a road surface drawing device that draws a drawing image on the road surface at a predetermined distance ahead of a motor vehicle.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2021 / 100712 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in the road marking device of Patent Document 1, the road marking lights illuminate according to the illumination status of the turn indicator. Furthermore, when the hazard warning switch is on, the illumination of the turn indicator coincides with the illumination of the road marking lights. Therefore, in such a road marking device, light is emitted from both the vehicle lights and the road marking lights towards the vicinity of the vehicle. Since light is emitted from two separate light sources—the turn indicator and the road marking lights—road users around the vehicle may sometimes experience inconvenience.

[0008] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a vehicle lighting system that includes vehicle lights that reduce inconvenience and road marking lights.

[0009] means for solving problems

[0010] The lighting system involved in one aspect of this disclosure is a vehicle lighting system mounted on a vehicle.

[0011] The vehicle lighting system includes: a first light unit that emits light into a first area that is part of the area surrounding the vehicle; and a light control unit that controls the first light unit.

[0012] The first headlight unit includes: a first road surface marking headlight for road surface marking; and a first vehicle headlight.

[0013] The headlight control unit is configured to switch between executing a first control that controls the first headlight unit to light up or flash according to the first vehicle headlights, and a second control that controls the first road surface marking headlights differently from the first control.

[0014] According to the above configuration, the vehicle lighting system includes a first vehicle lighting unit having a first vehicle headlight and a first road marking headlight. The vehicle lighting control unit can switch between performing a first control and a second control on the first vehicle lighting unit. The second control is different from the first control, which controls the first vehicle lighting unit by illuminating or flashing the first road marking headlight in response to the illumination or flashing of the first vehicle headlight. For example, unlike this disclosure, if the first vehicle headlight and the first road marking headlight are illuminated simultaneously, there is a potential risk of inconvenience to road users. This disclosure performs a second control on the first road marking headlight that is different from the first control. Therefore, since the first vehicle headlight and the first road marking headlight are not illuminated simultaneously, the inconvenience to road users can be reduced.

[0015] Invention Effects

[0016] According to this disclosure, a vehicle lighting system can be provided that includes vehicle lights that reduce inconvenience and road marking lights. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This figure illustrates a vehicle equipped with a lighting system according to one embodiment of this invention.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of a vehicle lighting system according to one embodiment of this invention.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the state of the headlights of a first vehicle and the headlights on a first road surface.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the states of the headlights of the first vehicle, the headlights of the first road surface, the headlights of the second vehicle, and the headlights of the second road surface. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure (hereinafter referred to as "this embodiment") will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. For ease of explanation, there may be cases where the dimensions of the components shown in the accompanying drawings differ from the actual dimensions of the components.

[0030] In addition, for ease of explanation, the terms "left-right direction" and "front-back direction" will be appropriately described in this embodiment. Here, "front-back direction" includes both "forward" and "rear" directions. "Left-right direction" includes both "left" and "right" directions. In the figures described below, reference numeral F indicates the forward direction. Reference numeral B indicates the rear direction. Reference numeral L indicates the left direction. Reference numeral R indicates the right direction. These directions correspond to the directions observed from the driver of the vehicle.

[0031] (First Implementation)

[0032] The following is for reference Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 The vehicle 10 equipped with the lighting system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating a vehicle 10 equipped with a headlight system 1. Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of vehicle lighting system 1. For example... Figure 1 For example, vehicle 10 is equipped with a lighting system 1. For example... Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 For example, the vehicle lighting system 1 includes an acquisition unit 2, a first vehicle lighting unit 3, a second vehicle lighting unit 4, a control signal output unit 5, and a vehicle lighting control unit 6.

[0033] like Figure 2For example, the acquisition unit 2 includes a sensor 21, a camera 22, and a radar 23. The sensor 21 may be an accelerometer, a speed sensor, or a gyroscope sensor. The sensor 21 detects the driving state of the vehicle 10 and outputs driving state information to the headlight control unit 6. The driving state information may include, for example, the acceleration information of the vehicle 10, the current speed information of the vehicle 10, and the driving direction information of the vehicle 10. The camera 22 may be a camera including an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary MOS). The radar 23 may be, for example, a millimeter-wave radar, a microwave radar, or a lidar. The acquisition unit 2 detects the surrounding environment of the vehicle (other vehicles, pedestrians, road shape, traffic signs, obstacles, etc.) and outputs the surrounding environment information to the headlight control unit 6.

[0034] like Figure 1 For example, the first headlight unit 3 may be located on the front right side and the rear right side of the vehicle 10. Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 For example, the first vehicle light unit 3 includes a first vehicle light 31 and a first road marking light 32. The first vehicle light 31 is, for example, a turn signal light. The turn signal light is a light used to notify drivers of other vehicles in front of and behind the vehicle 10 of the vehicle's turning direction and changes in the route. The first vehicle light 31 includes, for example, a light source including an LED (Light Emitting Diode) element or an LD (Laser Diode) element, and a lens made of a transparent resin such as acrylic or a light-transmitting material such as glass. The first vehicle light 31 emits light further than the first road marking light 32.

[0035] The first road surface marking headlight 32, for example, includes a light deflection device that deflects the laser emitted from a laser source, and a laser scanning device for the laser source. The light deflection device is, for example, a movable mirror such as a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) mirror or an electrically controlled mirror. The first road surface marking headlight 32, for example, draws a light pattern on the road surface around the vehicle 10 by scanning the laser. Alternatively, the first road surface marking headlight 32 may also include a light source including LED elements or LD elements, and a light-shielding portion that blocks a portion of the light emitted from the light source to draw the light pattern on the road surface.

[0036] like Figure 1 For example, the second headlight unit 4 may be located on the front left side and the rear left side of the vehicle 10. Figure 1 as well as Figure 2For example, the second vehicle light unit 4 includes a second vehicle light 41 and a second road marking light 42. The second vehicle light 41 may also have the same configuration as the first vehicle light 31. In addition, the second road marking light 42 may also have the same configuration as the first road marking light 32.

[0037] like Figure 2 For example, the control signal output unit 5 includes a turn signal switch 51 and a hazard warning switch 52. The turn signal switch 51 is used by the driver of the vehicle 10 (an example of a user) to select the state of the first vehicle light 31 and the second vehicle light 41 provided by the vehicle 10. Furthermore, the state of the first vehicle light 31 and the second vehicle light 41 refers to, for example, an illuminated state where light is continuously emitted from the first vehicle light 31 and the second vehicle light 41, a flashing state where light is intermittently emitted from the first vehicle light 31 and the second vehicle light 41, and an off state where no light is emitted from the first vehicle light 31 and the second vehicle light 41. The turn signal switch 51 is electrically connected to the lighting control unit 6. For example, if the driver of the vehicle 10 operates the turn signal switch 51 to make the first vehicle light 31 flash, the turn signal switch 51 outputs a control signal to the lighting control unit 6 to make the first vehicle light 31 flash based on the driver's operation.

[0038] The hazard warning switch 52 is a switch used by the driver of vehicle 10 to make the first vehicle light 31 and the second vehicle light 41 of vehicle 10 flash. The hazard warning switch 52 is electrically connected to the headlight control unit 6. For example, if the driver of vehicle 10 turns the hazard warning switch 52 on, the hazard warning switch 52 will output a control signal to the headlight control unit 6 to make the first vehicle light 31 and the second vehicle light 41 flash based on the driver's operation.

[0039] The headlight control unit 6 controls the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 based on at least one of driving status information and surrounding environment information received from the acquisition unit 2, or a control signal received from the turn signal switch 51 or the hazard warning switch 52. The headlight control unit 6 is configured to switchably execute a first control that causes the first road surface marking headlight 32 to illuminate when the first vehicle headlight 31 is illuminated, or to flash when the first vehicle headlight 31 flashes, and a second control that performs a control different from the first control on the first road surface marking headlight 32. Furthermore, the headlight control unit 6 is configured to switchably execute a third control that causes the second road surface marking headlight 42 to illuminate when the second vehicle headlight 41 is illuminated, or to flash when the second vehicle headlight 41 flashes, and a fourth control that performs a control different from the third control on the second road surface marking headlight 42.

[0040] The headlight control unit 6 can control the first headlight unit 3 located at the front of the vehicle 10 and the first headlight unit 3 located at the rear of the vehicle 10, respectively. In addition, the headlight control unit 6 can control the second headlight unit 4 located at the front of the vehicle 10 and the second headlight unit 4 located at the rear of the vehicle 10, respectively.

[0041] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 For example, the vehicle lighting control unit 6 includes a first vehicle lighting control unit 61 and a second vehicle lighting control unit 62. The first vehicle lighting control unit 61 is, for example, composed of an electronic control unit (ECU). The ECU consists of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing various vehicle lighting control programs, and RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporary storage of various vehicle lighting control data. The processor is configured to extract programs specified from the various vehicle lighting control programs stored in the ROM onto the RAM and execute various processes in cooperation with the RAM. The first vehicle lighting control unit 61 controls the first vehicle lighting 31 and the second vehicle lighting 41.

[0042] The second headlight control unit 62 may, for example, have the same configuration as the first headlight control unit 61. The second headlight control unit 62 controls the first road surface marking headlight 32 and the second road surface marking headlight 42.

[0043] Next, refer to Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The changes in the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 are explained. Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the states of the first vehicle headlight 31, the first road surface marking headlight 32, the second vehicle headlight 41, and the second road surface marking headlight 42 under normal conditions. Furthermore, a normal state refers to a state where there are no other vehicles, pedestrians, traffic facilities (intersections, crosswalks, traffic lights, etc.), obstacles (walls, etc.) around the vehicle 10, and the vehicle 10 is moving without slowing down. Additionally, the acquisition unit 2 outputs a signal to the headlight control unit 6 indicating whether it is a normal state or a non-normal state, based on the vehicle's surrounding environment acquired by sensors such as cameras and driving state information representing the vehicle's driving state. Furthermore, in the following description, unless otherwise specified, a normal state refers to... Figure 3 The illustrated state. Furthermore, in the following descriptions, unless otherwise specified, the forward direction is defined as the direction of travel of vehicle 10.

[0044] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated state, the first vehicle headlight 31, the first road marking headlight 32, the second vehicle headlight 41, and the second road marking headlight 42 are flashing. Figure 3 In the illustrated state, in the area surrounding vehicle 10, light is emitted from the first vehicle headlight 31 and the first road surface illumination headlight 32 in the front right area FR (an example of the first area) and the rear right area BR (an example of the first area), respectively. In the area surrounding vehicle 10, light is emitted from the second vehicle headlight 41 and the second road surface illumination headlight 42 in the front left area FL (an example of the second area) and the rear left area BL (an example of the second area), respectively. Therefore, in Figure 3 In the figures, the parts colored with dots indicate a flashing state. Furthermore, in the following description, the parts colored with dots in each figure also indicate a flashing state.

[0045] In a normal state, for example, if the first vehicle headlight 31 is flashing, the first road surface marking headlight 32 is also flashing. Similarly, if the second vehicle headlight 41 is flashing, the second road surface marking headlight 42 is also flashing. In other words, in a normal state, the state of the first road surface marking headlight 32 corresponds to the state of the first vehicle headlight 31, and the state of the second road surface marking headlight 42 corresponds to the state of the second vehicle headlight 41. Therefore, the headlight control unit 6 performs first control on the first headlight unit 3 and third control on the second headlight unit 4 in a normal state. Furthermore, in the following description, unless otherwise specified, it is assumed that in a normal state, the headlight control unit 6 performs first control on the first headlight unit 3 and third control on the second headlight unit 4. Additionally, in this embodiment, the light patterns P1 to P4 drawn in the areas surrounding the vehicle 10 (front right area FR, front left area FL, rear right area BR, and rear left area BL) are approximately rectangular shapes. The light patterns P1 to P4 depicted in the area surrounding the vehicle 10 are not limited to these; they can also be other shapes of graphics, text, etc.

[0046] Furthermore, while the above description focused on the flashing state of the first vehicle headlight 31, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The normal state also includes the case where the first road surface marking headlight 32 is illuminated when the first vehicle headlight 31 is illuminated. The normal state also includes the case where the second road surface marking headlight 42 is illuminated when the second vehicle headlight 41 is illuminated.

[0047] Next, refer to Figure 4 The control performed by the headlight control unit 6 on the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 by operating the hazard warning switch 52 will be described. First, a control signal is input to the headlight control unit 6 from the hazard warning switch 52. Next, the headlight control unit 6 acquires ambient information from the acquisition unit 2. Based on the ambient information output from the acquisition unit 2, the headlight control unit 6 determines whether it is a normal state or an abnormal state. If the headlight control unit 6 determines that it is a normal state, it performs a first control on the first headlight unit 3 and a third control on the second headlight unit 4. That is, it causes both the vehicle headlights and the road surface marking headlights to illuminate or flash. On the other hand, if the headlight control unit 6 determines that it is an abnormal state based on the ambient information output from the acquisition unit 2, it performs a second control on the first headlight unit 3 and a fourth control on the second headlight unit 4. Furthermore, the specific conditions under the abnormal state will be described in detail in the following embodiments.

[0048] like Figure 4 For example, when the second control is executed by the vehicle light control unit 6, the first vehicle headlight 31 is in a flashing state, and the first road surface marking headlight 32 is in an off state. Therefore, in Figure 4In the illustrated state, the light pattern P1 is not drawn in the front right area FR. Thus, when the second control is executed by the headlight control unit 6, the state of the first road surface drawing headlight 32 does not correspond to the state of the first vehicle headlight 31.

[0049] Furthermore, the headlight control unit 6 can perform the same control on the second headlight unit 4 as it does on the first headlight unit 3. That is, the headlight control unit 6 performs a fourth control on the second headlight unit 4, thereby, for example, causing the second vehicle headlight 41 to flash, and on the other hand, causing the second road marking headlight 42 to be off. In other words, when the headlight control unit 6 performs the fourth control on the second headlight unit 4, the state of the second road marking headlight 42 does not correspond to the state of the second vehicle headlight 41.

[0050] (First Embodiment)

[0051] Next, refer to Figure 3 as well as Figure 5 The changes in the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 in the first embodiment will be described. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 in their normal states are... Figure 3 An illustrative scenario. In the first embodiment, there is another vehicle 100 (an example of a traffic participant) behind vehicle 10, and the other vehicle 100 is about to overtake vehicle 10. Figure 5 This diagram illustrates a situation where another vehicle 100 is approaching vehicle 10 from behind.

[0052] like Figure 5 For example, if another vehicle 100 approaches vehicle 10 from behind, the acquisition unit 2, for instance, takes pictures of the other vehicle 100 at predetermined time intervals, and the acquisition unit 2 detects the approach of the other vehicle 100. If the acquisition unit 2 detects the approach of the other vehicle 100, it outputs surrounding environment information, including information related to the other vehicle 100, to the headlight control unit 6. Based on the surrounding environment information received from the acquisition unit 2, the headlight control unit 6 determines that the other vehicle 100 located behind vehicle 10 is about to overtake vehicle 10 and determines that the current time is an abnormal state. Furthermore, in this state, it is assumed that the driver of vehicle 10 has operated the hazard warning switch 52 to convey that the vehicle is temporarily stopped.

[0053] Since other vehicles 100 are located behind vehicle 10, their drivers can easily visually confirm the area behind vehicle 10 (rear right area BR and rear left area BL), but cannot easily visually confirm the area in front of vehicle 10 (front right area FR and front left area FL). Furthermore, if the vehicle lights located behind vehicle 10 are illuminated or flashing together with the road marking lights, the light overlaps and becomes too bright, illuminating an excessively large area, potentially causing inconvenience to the drivers of other vehicles 100. Therefore, the headlight control unit 6... Figure 5 In the illustrated state, the first lamp unit 3 and the second lamp unit 4, located at the rear of the vehicle 10, are controlled to prevent light from emanating from the first road surface depiction lamp 32 and the second road surface depiction lamp 42 located at the rear of the vehicle 10. In other words, the lamp control unit 6 performs a second control on the first lamp unit 3 located at the rear of the vehicle 10 and a fourth control on the second lamp unit 4 located at the rear of the vehicle 10. On the other hand, the lamp control unit 6 performs a first control on the first lamp unit 3 located at the front of the vehicle 10 and a third control on the second lamp unit 4 located at the front of the vehicle 10.

[0054] Therefore, in Figure 5 In the illustrated configuration, light patterns P1 to P2 are drawn in the front region of the vehicle 10, while light patterns P3 to P4 are not drawn in the rear region of the vehicle 10. In other words, in the front region of the vehicle 10, light is emitted from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road surface lighting lights (first road surface lighting lights 32 and second road surface lighting lights 42). On the other hand, in the rear region of the vehicle 10, light is not emitted from the road surface lighting lights (first road surface lighting lights 32 and second road surface lighting lights 42), but only from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41). Therefore, it can reduce the inconvenience to drivers of other vehicles 100 approaching from behind the vehicle 10, while strongly conveying a message to traffic participants in front of the vehicle 10 through the light from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road marking lights (first road marking lights 32 and second road marking lights 42).

[0055] (Second Embodiment)

[0056] Next, refer to Figure 3 as well as Figure 6The changes in the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 in the second embodiment will be explained. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 in their normal states are... Figure 3 The example states. Figure 6 It is in the direction of travel of vehicle 10 (in) Figure 6 (The middle is the front direction) The opposite direction (in) Figure 6 The diagram illustrates the state of another vehicle 200 (an example of a traffic participant) approaching vehicle 10 in the rear direction.

[0057] like Figure 6 For example, if another vehicle 200 traveling in the opposite direction to vehicle 10 approaches vehicle 10, the camera 22 of the acquisition unit 2 may take pictures of the other vehicle 200 at predetermined time intervals, and the acquisition unit 2 may detect the approach of the other vehicle 200. If the acquisition unit 2 detects the approach of the other vehicle 200, it outputs surrounding environment information, including information related to the other vehicle 200, to the headlight control unit 6. That is, the headlight control unit 6 determines, based on the surrounding environment information received from the acquisition unit 2, that the other vehicle 200 is about to pass vehicle 10 and determines it to be an abnormal state. Furthermore, in this state, suppose the driver of vehicle 10 operates the hazard warning switch 52 to convey that the vehicle is temporarily stopped.

[0058] Other vehicles 200 are located in front of vehicle 10, and the direction of travel of vehicle 10 is opposite to that of the other vehicles 200. Therefore, in order to convey the driver's intention (the intended direction of travel of vehicle 10, etc.) to the other vehicles 200, it is preferable to depict light patterns P1 to P2 in the area in front of vehicle 10, which is easily visible to the drivers of other vehicles 200. On the other hand, light patterns P3 to P4 depicted in the area behind vehicle 10 are difficult for the drivers of other vehicles 200 to see visually. Therefore, the headlight control unit 6... Figure 6 In the illustrated state, the first lamp unit 3 and the second lamp unit 4, located at the rear of the vehicle 10, are controlled to prevent light from emanating from the first road surface depiction lamp 32 and the second road surface depiction lamp 42 located at the rear of the vehicle 10. In other words, the lamp control unit 6 performs a second control on the first lamp unit 3 located at the rear of the vehicle 10 and a fourth control on the second lamp unit 4 located at the rear of the vehicle 10. On the other hand, the lamp control unit 6 performs a first control on the first lamp unit 3 located at the front of the vehicle 10 and a third control on the second lamp unit 4 located at the front of the vehicle 10.

[0059] Therefore, in Figure 6 In the illustrated configuration, light patterns P1 to P2 are depicted in the front area of ​​the vehicle 10, while light patterns P3 to P4 are not depicted in the rear area of ​​the vehicle 10. In other words, in the front area of ​​the vehicle 10, light is emitted from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road surface marking lights (first road surface marking lights 32 and second road surface marking lights 42). On the other hand, in the rear area of ​​the vehicle 10, light from the road surface marking lights (first road surface marking lights 32 and second road surface marking lights 42) is not emitted; only light from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) is emitted. Therefore, it can reduce the inconvenience to traffic participants behind vehicle 10, while strongly conveying a message to the drivers of other vehicles 200 in front of vehicle 10 through the light from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road marking lights (first road marking lights 32 and second road marking lights 42).

[0060] (Third Embodiment)

[0061] Next, refer to Figure 3 as well as Figure 7 The changes in the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 in the third embodiment will be explained. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 in their normal states are as follows: Figure 3 The example states. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating how a pedestrian 300 (an example of a traffic participant) located on the right front of vehicle 10 is about to cross the pedestrian crossing Z1 located near vehicle 10.

[0062] like Figure 7 For example, vehicle 10 is located near (behind) pedestrian crossing Z1, and pedestrian 300 is about to cross pedestrian crossing Z1. In other words, pedestrian 300 is about to approach vehicle 10. If pedestrian 300 approaches vehicle 10, for example, camera 22 of acquisition unit 2 takes pictures of pedestrian 300 at predetermined time intervals, and acquisition unit 2 detects the approach of pedestrian 300. If acquisition unit 2 detects the approach of pedestrian 300, it outputs surrounding environment information including information related to pedestrian 300 to vehicle light control unit 6. Based on the surrounding environment information received from acquisition unit 2, vehicle light control unit 6 determines that pedestrian 300 is about to cross pedestrian crossing Z1 and is approaching vehicle 10, and determines this to be an abnormal state. Furthermore, in this state, assume that the driver of vehicle 10 operates hazard warning switch 52 to convey that the vehicle is temporarily stopped.

[0063] Pedestrian 300 is located in front of vehicle 10 and is about to cross the pedestrian crossing Z1. For pedestrian 300, the light patterns P1-P2 depicted in the area in front of vehicle 10 are easier to visually recognize than the light patterns P3-P4 depicted in the area behind vehicle 10. Therefore, in order to convey the driver's intention to pedestrian 300, the road surface depiction is preferably performed in the area in front of vehicle 10 compared to the area behind vehicle 10. Thus, in Figure 7 In the illustrated state, the headlight control unit 6 controls the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 located behind the vehicle 10 in a manner that prevents light from emanating from the first road surface marking headlight 32 and the second road surface marking headlight 42 located behind the vehicle 10. In other words, the headlight control unit 6 performs a second control on the first headlight unit 3 located behind the vehicle 10 and a fourth control on the second headlight unit 4 located behind the vehicle 10. On the other hand, the headlight control unit 6 performs a first control on the first headlight unit 3 located in front of the vehicle 10 and a third control on the second headlight unit 4 located in front of the vehicle 10.

[0064] Therefore, in Figure 7 In the illustrated configuration, light patterns P1 to P2 are depicted in the front area of ​​the vehicle 10, while light patterns P3 to P4 are not depicted in the rear area of ​​the vehicle 10. In other words, in the front area of ​​the vehicle 10, light is emitted from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road surface marking lights (first road surface marking lights 32 and second road surface marking lights 42). On the other hand, in the rear area of ​​the vehicle 10, light from the road surface marking lights (first road surface marking lights 32 and second road surface marking lights 42) is not emitted; only light from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) is emitted. Therefore, it can reduce the inconvenience to traffic participants behind the vehicle 10, and at the same time, it can more strongly convey the message to pedestrians 300 in front of the vehicle 10 through the light from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road marking lights (first road marking lights 32 and second road marking lights 42).

[0065] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0066] Next, refer to Figure 3 as well as Figure 8 The changes in the illumination states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 in the fourth embodiment will be explained. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road surface marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road surface marking light 42 in their normal states are also... Figure 3 The example states. Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the state of vehicle 10 approaching intersection I. Furthermore, vehicle 10 intends to turn right at intersection I. Pedestrian crossings Z11 to Z14 are located at intersection I. Traffic lights S1 to S4 are installed near pedestrian crossings Z11 to Z14, respectively. Additionally, in... Figure 8 In the illustrated state, traffic lights S1-S2 are displayed as green (indicating that vehicles are permitted to proceed), and traffic lights S3-S4 are displayed as red (indicating that vehicles are not permitted to proceed). Additionally, at intersection I, there is a direction opposite to the direction of travel of vehicle 10 (in... Figure 8 The opposite direction of the front direction (in the middle) Figure 8 Other vehicles 401 (an example of traffic participants) traveling in the rear direction, and pedestrians 402 (an example of traffic participants) about to cross the crosswalk Z13. At this time, the vehicle light control unit 6 determines that it is an abnormal state. In addition, in this state, the driver of vehicle 10 operates the hazard warning switch 52 to convey that the vehicle is temporarily stopped.

[0067] Other vehicle 401 is an oncoming vehicle in front of vehicle 10, intending to proceed straight. Additionally, pedestrian 402 is in front of vehicle 10 and intends to cross the pedestrian crossing Z13 located on the vehicle 10's predetermined path of travel. Acquisition unit 2 detects other vehicles 401 and pedestrian 402, for example, by capturing images of them with its camera 22. If acquisition unit 2 detects other vehicles 401 and pedestrian 402, it outputs surrounding environment information, including information related to them, to the headlight control unit 6. Based on the surrounding environment information received from acquisition unit 2, headlight control unit 6 determines that other vehicles 401 and pedestrian 402 intend to cross on the vehicle 10's predetermined path of travel. Therefore, vehicle 10 needs to convey the driver's intentions (the vehicle 10's predetermined direction of travel, etc.) to other vehicles 401 and pedestrians 402.

[0068] For other vehicles 401 and pedestrians 402, the light patterns P1-P2 depicted in the forward area are easier to visually recognize than the light patterns P3-P4 depicted in the rear area of ​​the vehicle 10. Therefore, in order to convey the driver's intentions to other vehicles 401 and pedestrians 402, road surface depiction is preferably performed in the forward area of ​​the vehicle 10 compared to the rear area. Therefore, the headlight control unit 6 in... Figure 8In the illustrated state, the first lamp unit 3 and the second lamp unit 4 located at the rear of the vehicle 10 are controlled in such a way that light is not emitted from the first road surface depiction lamp 32 and the second road surface depiction lamp 42 located at the rear of the vehicle 10. In other words, the lamp control unit 6 performs a second control on the first lamp unit 3 located at the rear of the vehicle 10 and a fourth control on the second lamp unit 4 located at the rear of the vehicle 10. On the other hand, the lamp control unit 6 performs a first control on the first lamp unit 3 located at the front of the vehicle 10 and a third control on the second lamp unit 4 located at the front of the vehicle 10.

[0069] Therefore, in Figure 8 In the illustrated configuration, light patterns P1 to P2 are depicted in the front area of ​​the vehicle 10, while light patterns P3 to P4 are not depicted in the rear area of ​​the vehicle 10. In other words, in the front area of ​​the vehicle 10, light is emitted from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road surface marking lights (first road surface marking lights 32 and second road surface marking lights 42). On the other hand, in the rear area of ​​the vehicle 10, light from the road surface marking lights (first road surface marking lights 32 and second road surface marking lights 42) is not emitted; only light from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) is emitted. Therefore, it can reduce the inconvenience to traffic participants behind the vehicle 10, while conveying a stronger message to other vehicles 401 and pedestrians 402 in front of the vehicle 10 through the light from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road marking lights (first road marking lights 32 and second road marking lights 42).

[0070] However, if the illumination of the vehicle lights and the road marking lights overlap, unlike this disclosure, traffic participants around the vehicle may sometimes experience inconvenience due to the light emitted from the two light sources.

[0071] According to the above-described configuration, the vehicle lighting system 1 includes a first vehicle lighting unit 3 having a first vehicle headlight 31 and a first road marking headlight 32. The vehicle lighting control unit 6 executes a method capable of switching between first control and second control on the first vehicle lighting unit 3. The second control is different from the first control, which controls the first vehicle lighting unit 3 to illuminate or flash according to the illumination or flashing of the first vehicle headlight 31. When the vehicle lighting control unit 6 executes the second control on the first vehicle lighting unit 3, since the first vehicle headlight 31 and the first road marking headlight 32 do not illuminate simultaneously, the vehicle lighting system 1 can reduce the inconvenience caused to road users.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the above-described vehicle lighting system 1, the vehicle lighting system 1 includes a first vehicle lighting unit 3 and a second vehicle lighting unit 4. Also, in the second vehicle lighting unit 4, similarly to the first vehicle lighting unit 3, when the vehicle lighting control unit 6 performs a fourth control on the second vehicle lighting unit 4, the second vehicle headlight 41 and the second road surface marking headlight 42 do not illuminate simultaneously. Therefore, even though the vehicle lighting system 1 includes the first vehicle lighting unit 3 and the second vehicle lighting unit 4, which is independent of the first vehicle lighting unit 3, it can reduce the inconvenience caused to road users.

[0073] Furthermore, according to the vehicle lighting system 1 with the above-described configuration, the vehicle lighting control unit 6 includes a first vehicle lighting control unit 61 for controlling the first vehicle headlight 31 and a second vehicle lighting control unit 62 for controlling the first road surface marking headlight 32. Therefore, the vehicle lighting system 1 can more easily control the first vehicle headlight 31 and the first road surface marking headlight 32 separately.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the above-described configuration of the vehicle lighting system 1, when the second control is performed on the first vehicle lighting unit 3, since the state of the first road surface depiction light 32 is different from the state of the first vehicle light 31, it is possible to reduce the inconvenience to traffic participants around the vehicle 10.

[0075] If the first vehicle light 31, which serves as a turn signal, is illuminated or flashes together with the first road marking light 32, it can be inconvenient for road users. However, with the light system 1 described above, road users around the vehicle 10 can experience less inconvenience.

[0076] Furthermore, according to the above-described configuration of the vehicle lighting system 1, since the vehicle lighting control unit 6 performs first control or second control based on the surrounding environment information obtained by the acquisition unit 2, it is able to perform control that matches the surrounding environment of the vehicle 10.

[0077] (Second Implementation)

[0078] Next, refer to Figure 9 The changes in the states of the first vehicle lamp 31, the first road surface marking lamp 32, the second vehicle lamp 41, and the second road surface marking lamp 42 in a vehicle 10A equipped with the lighting system 1A according to the second embodiment will be described. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used to describe the same components as in the first embodiment; additionally, descriptions that are repeated are appropriately omitted.

[0079] In this embodiment, such as Figure 9For example, the vehicle lighting system 1A includes a first vehicle lighting unit 3 and a second vehicle lighting unit 4. The first vehicle lighting unit 3 is respectively disposed on the front right side and the front left side of the vehicle 10A, and the second vehicle lighting unit 4 is respectively disposed on the rear right side and the rear left side of the vehicle 10A.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the area surrounding vehicle 10A, specifically the front right area FR and the front left area FL, is an example of a first area, while the rear right area BR and the rear left area BL are an example of a second area. Additionally, in this embodiment, under normal conditions, the first vehicle headlight 31, the first road marking headlight 32, the second vehicle headlight 41, and the second road marking headlight 42 are illuminated or flashing. In other words, in this embodiment, under normal conditions, the headlight control unit 6 performs first control on the first headlight unit 3 and third control on the second headlight unit 4.

[0081] exist Figure 9 In the illustrated state, a wall 500 is present on the left side of vehicle 10A. The wall 500 is positioned along the road on which vehicle 10A is traveling. The acquisition unit 2 detects the wall 500 by, for example, capturing an image of it with its camera 22. If the acquisition unit 2 detects the wall 500, it outputs ambient information, including information related to the wall 500, to the headlight control unit 6. Based on the ambient information received from the acquisition unit 2, the headlight control unit 6 determines that it is an abnormal state and determines that a wall 500 is present on the left side of vehicle 10A. Furthermore, in this state, it is assumed that the driver of vehicle 10A has operated the hazard warning switch 52 to convey that the vehicle is temporarily stopped.

[0082] If the first road marking light 32 and the second road marking light 42 mounted on the left side of vehicle 10A are used to mark the road surface towards the left side area (front left side area FL and rear left side area BL), there is a risk that the light emitted from the first road marking light 32 and the second road marking light 42 will be reflected by the wall 500. Therefore, in Figure 9 In the illustrated state, the headlight control unit 6 preferably controls the first road surface illumination headlight 32 and the second road surface illumination headlight 42 mounted on the left side of the vehicle 10A in a manner that prevents light from emanating from the first road surface illumination headlight 32 and the second road surface illumination headlight 42 mounted on the left side of the vehicle 10A. Therefore, in Figure 9In the illustrated state, the headlight control unit 6 controls the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 located on the left side of the vehicle 10A to prevent light from emanating from the first road surface depiction headlight 32 and the second road surface depiction headlight 42 located on the left side of the vehicle 10A. In other words, the headlight control unit 6 performs a second control on the first headlight unit 3 located on the left side of the vehicle 10A and a fourth control on the second headlight unit 4 located on the left side of the vehicle 10A. On the other hand, the headlight control unit 6 performs a first control on the first headlight unit 3 located on the right side of the vehicle 10A and a third control on the second headlight unit 4 located on the right side of the vehicle 10A. Therefore, in Figure 9 In the illustrated state, light patterns P1 and P3 are depicted in the right-side area (front right-side area FR and rear right-side area BR) of vehicle 10A, while light patterns P2 and P4 are not depicted in the left-side area of ​​vehicle 10A.

[0083] The vehicle lighting system 1A according to the above configuration can also achieve the same effect as the first embodiment.

[0084] Furthermore, according to the vehicle lighting system 1A described above, since light is not emitted from the first road surface marking light 32 and the second road surface marking light 42 toward the wall 500, light reflection from the wall 500 can be suppressed. Therefore, according to the vehicle lighting system 1A, the inconvenience caused to traffic participants near the vehicle 10A can be reduced, while the light from the vehicle lights (first vehicle lights 31 and second vehicle lights 41) and the road surface marking lights (first road surface marking light 32 and second road surface marking light 42) can more strongly convey a message to traffic participants on the right side of the vehicle 10.

[0085] (Third Implementation)

[0086] Next, refer to Figure 3 as well as Figure 10 The changes in the states of the first vehicle lamp 31, the first road surface marking lamp 32, the second vehicle lamp 41, and the second road surface marking lamp 42 of a vehicle 10B equipped with the lighting system 1B according to the third embodiment will be described. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used to describe the same components as in the first embodiment; additionally, descriptions that are repeated are appropriately omitted.

[0087] The vehicle lighting system 1B includes one first light unit 3 and three second light units 4. The first light unit 3 is located on the front right side of the vehicle 10B, and the second light units 4 are located on the rear right side, the front left side, and the rear left side of the vehicle 10B, respectively. Furthermore, in this embodiment, "normal state" refers to... Figure 10The illustrated state. Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, when other vehicles, pedestrians, traffic facilities, obstacles, etc., are present around vehicle 10B, and when vehicle 10B decelerates or stops, the states of the first vehicle light 31, the first road marking light 32, the second vehicle light 41, and the second road marking light 42 become... Figure 3 An example of a state. In this embodiment, in... Figure 3 In the illustrated state, the headlight control unit 6 performs first control on the first headlight unit 3 and third control on the second headlight unit 4. Furthermore, in this state, it is assumed that the driver of vehicle 10 operates the hazard warning switch 52 to convey that the vehicle is temporarily stopped.

[0088] like Figure 10 For example, under normal conditions, the first vehicle headlight 31, the second vehicle headlight 41, and the first road surface marking headlight 32 are flashing, while the second road surface marking headlight 42 is off. Therefore, a light pattern P11 larger than the light pattern P1 is drawn only in the front right area FR of the vehicle 10B, and light patterns P2 to P4 are not drawn in other areas (front left area FL, rear right area BR, and rear left area BL). Thus, under normal conditions in this embodiment, the headlight control unit 6 performs first control on the first headlight unit 3 and fourth control on the second headlight unit 4.

[0089] Since a larger light pattern is more conspicuous, light pattern P11 is more easily visually recognized by traffic participants around vehicle 10B compared to light pattern P1. However, if light pattern P11 is drawn around vehicle 10B when conveying information based on the first vehicle headlight 31 and the second vehicle headlight 41 to the traffic participant, there is a risk of causing inconvenience. Therefore, in this embodiment, for example, when other vehicles, pedestrians, traffic facilities, obstacles, etc. are present around vehicle 10B, or when vehicle 10B decelerates or stops, the headlight control unit 6 controls the first headlight unit 3 without drawing light pattern P11. Thus, the headlight control unit 6 performs a first control on the first headlight unit 3 and a third control on the second headlight unit 4, causing the first vehicle headlight 31, the first road surface marking headlight 32, the second vehicle headlight 41, and the second road surface marking headlight 42 to be in a flashing state. As a result, as Figure 3 For example, light patterns P1 to P4, smaller than pattern P11, are drawn in the areas surrounding vehicle 10B (front right area FR, front left area FL, rear right area BR, and rear left area BL).

[0090] The vehicle lighting system 1B according to the above configuration can also achieve the same effect as the first embodiment.

[0091] Furthermore, according to the above-described configuration of the vehicle lighting system 1B, since the road surface depiction of the first road surface depiction vehicle lighting 32 when the first control is executed is smaller than the road surface depiction of the first road surface depiction vehicle lighting 32 when the second control is executed, it is possible to reduce the inconvenience to traffic participants located around the vehicle 10B.

[0092] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described above. However, the technical scope of this disclosure should not be limited by the description of these embodiments. This embodiment is merely an example, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications to the embodiments can be made within the scope of the disclosure described in the technical solution. The technical scope of this disclosure should be determined based on the scope of the disclosure described in the technical solution and its equivalents.

[0093] In the first to fourth embodiments described above, light patterns P1 to P2 are depicted in the front region of the vehicle 10, while light patterns P3 to P4 are not depicted in the rear region of the vehicle 10. However, this disclosure is not limited to this example. For example, as Figure 11 For example, the headlight control unit 6 may perform a second control on the first headlight unit 3 and a fourth control on the second headlight unit 4, thereby turning off both the first road surface marking headlight 32 and the second road surface marking headlight 42 and preventing the marking of light patterns P1 to P4 in the area surrounding the vehicle 10. In this case, other vehicles 401, pedestrians 402, and... Figure 8 Compared to the illustrated state, it is easier to identify information from the vehicle lights 31 of the first vehicle.

[0094] In the first to fourth embodiments, light patterns P1 to P2 are depicted in the front region of the vehicle 10, while light patterns P3 to P4 are not depicted in the rear region of the vehicle 10. However, this disclosure is not limited to this example. For example, as Figure 12 For example, it is also possible that light patterns P3-P4 with lower luminance than those depicted in the front area of ​​the vehicle 10 are drawn in the rear area. In this case, the luminance of the light emitted from the headlight 32 on the first road surface during the second control is lower than the luminance of the light emitted from the headlight 32 on the first road surface during the first control. Furthermore, the luminance of the light emitted from the headlight 42 on the second road surface during the fourth control is lower than the luminance of the light emitted from the headlight 32 on the first road surface during the third control. Therefore, in this case, the headlight system 1 can also reduce the inconvenience caused to traffic participants around the vehicle 10.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the headlight control unit 6 controls the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 based on surrounding environment information; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the headlight control unit 6 may also control the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 based on control signals output by the control signal output unit 5 based on operations by a user such as the driver of the vehicle 10. In this case, the driver of the vehicle 10 can easily switch between the first control and the second control using the control signal output unit 5.

[0096] In the above embodiments, the headlight control unit 6 switches between the first control and the fourth control of the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 based on surrounding environment information. However, it can also switch between the first control and the fourth control of the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 based on driving status information. For example, when the headlight control unit 6 receives driving status information from the vehicle control unit of the vehicle 10 indicating that the vehicle 10 is stopping or decelerating, it can switch between the first control and the fourth control of the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4 based on the driving status information.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the headlight control unit 6 determines whether it is a normal state or an abnormal state based on the surrounding environment information and driving status information received from the acquisition unit 2; however, this disclosure is not limited to this. The acquisition unit 2 may also be configured to determine whether it is a normal state or an abnormal state based on the surrounding environment information and driving status information and output the determination result to the headlight control unit 6. Furthermore, the headlight control unit 6 and the acquisition unit 2 may also be configured to output information indicating whether there are traffic participants, walls, etc., on any of the right, left, front, and rear sides of the vehicle, based on the information indicating whether it is a normal state or an abnormal state.

[0098] In the above embodiments, the headlight control unit 6 includes a first headlight control unit 61 and a second headlight control unit 62, but it may also be a single headlight control unit.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the headlight control unit 6 is described as a headlight control unit that controls the first headlight unit 3 and the second headlight unit 4. However, the vehicle control unit of the vehicle 10 can also perform the function of the headlight control unit 6.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the headlight control unit 6 controls the first headlight unit 3 in a manner that the first road surface depiction headlight 32 is turned off when the second control is executed; however, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the headlight control unit 6 may also control the first headlight unit 3 in a manner that the illumination cycle of the road surface depiction headlight 32 based on the execution of the second control is different from the illumination cycle of the road surface depiction headlight 32 based on the execution of the first control. In this case, when the second control is executed, traffic participants can easily distinguish between the information from the first vehicle headlight 31 and the information from the first road surface depiction headlight 32.

[0101] In the above embodiment, the headlight control unit 6 controls the second headlight unit 4 to turn off the second road surface depiction headlight 42 when the fourth control is executed; however, this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the headlight control unit 6 may also control the second headlight unit 4 in a manner that the illumination cycle of the road surface depiction headlight 42 based on the fourth control is different from the illumination cycle of the road surface depiction headlight 42 based on the third control. In this case, when the fourth control is executed, traffic participants can easily distinguish between the information from the second vehicle headlight 41 and the information from the second road surface depiction headlight 42.

[0102] In the above embodiments, the first vehicle headlight 31 is in an illuminated or flashing state when the first control or the second control is being executed, but it may also be in an off state, for example, when the second control is being executed. Alternatively, when the first vehicle headlight 31 is in an off state, the first road surface marking headlight 32 may be in an illuminated or flashing state.

[0103] In the above embodiments, the second vehicle headlight 41 is in an illuminated or flashing state when the third or fourth control is being executed, but it may also be in an off state, for example, when the fourth control is being executed. Alternatively, when the second vehicle headlight 41 is in an off state, the second road surface marking headlight 42 may be in an illuminated or flashing state.

[0104] The first and third controls can be executed independently or simultaneously. Furthermore, the first and third controls can also contain the same information.

[0105] The second and fourth controls can be executed independently or simultaneously. Furthermore, the second and fourth controls can also contain the same information.

[0106] The following list of components also constitutes part of this disclosure.

[0107] (1): A vehicle lighting system, wherein,

[0108] The vehicle lighting system includes: a first light unit that emits light into a first area that is part of the area surrounding the vehicle; and a light control unit that controls the first light unit.

[0109] The first headlight unit includes: a first road surface marking headlight for road surface marking; and a first vehicle headlight.

[0110] The headlight control unit is configured to switch between executing a first control that controls the first headlight unit to light up or flash according to the first vehicle headlights, and a second control that controls the first road surface marking headlights differently from the first control.

[0111] (2): Based on the vehicle lighting system described in (1), wherein,

[0112] The lighting system also includes a second lighting unit that emits light into a second area, which is different from the first area and is part of the area surrounding the vehicle.

[0113] The second headlight unit includes: a second road surface marking headlight for road surface marking; and a second vehicle headlight.

[0114] The headlight control unit is configured to switch between executing a third control that controls the second headlight unit to light up or flash according to the second vehicle headlight, and a fourth control that controls the second road surface marking headlight differently from the third control.

[0115] (3): Based on the vehicle lighting system described in (1) or (2), wherein,

[0116] The vehicle lighting control unit includes a first vehicle lighting control unit that controls the vehicle lights of the first vehicle, and a second vehicle lighting control unit that controls the first road surface marking lights.

[0117] (4): Based on any one of (1) to (3) of the vehicle lighting system, wherein,

[0118] When the vehicle lighting control unit performs the second control, it turns off the vehicle lights of the first vehicle.

[0119] (5): Based on any one of (1) to (3) of the vehicle lighting system, wherein,

[0120] The headlight control unit performs the second control in such a way that the luminous intensity of the light emitted from the headlights from the first road surface is lower when the second control is performed than the luminous intensity of the light emitted from the headlights from the first road surface when the first control is performed.

[0121] (6): Based on any one of (1) to (3) of the vehicle lighting system, wherein,

[0122] The headlight control unit controls the first road surface depiction headlight in such a way that the illumination cycle of the road surface depiction headlight based on the first road surface depiction headlight is different when the second control is executed compared with the illumination cycle of the road surface depiction headlight based on the first road surface depiction headlight when the first control is executed.

[0123] (7): Based on any one of (1) to (3) of the vehicle lighting system, wherein,

[0124] The headlight control unit controls the first road surface depiction headlight in such a way that the road surface depiction of the headlight based on the first road surface depiction headlight is smaller when the first control is executed than when the second control is executed.

[0125] (8): Based on any one of (1) to (7) of the vehicle lighting system, wherein,

[0126] The first vehicle uses turn signal lights.

[0127] (9): Based on any one of (1) to (8) of the vehicle lighting system, wherein,

[0128] The vehicle lighting system also includes a control signal output unit, which outputs control signals to the vehicle lighting control unit based on user operations.

[0129] The vehicle lighting control unit executes the first control or the second control based on the control signal output from the control signal output unit.

[0130] (10): Based on any one of (1) to (9) of the vehicle lighting system, wherein,

[0131] The vehicle lighting system also includes an acquisition unit that acquires at least one of driving status information related to the driving status of the vehicle and surrounding environment information related to the surrounding environment of the vehicle.

[0132] The vehicle lighting control unit executes the first control or the second control based on at least one of the driving status information and the surrounding environment information.

[0133] This application appropriately incorporates the disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-137209, filed on August 25, 2021.

Claims

1. A vehicle lighting system, wherein, The vehicle lighting system includes: a first light unit that emits light into a first area that is part of the area surrounding the vehicle; and a light control unit that controls the first light unit. The first headlight unit includes: a first road surface marking headlight for road surface marking; and a first vehicle headlight. The headlight control unit is configured to switch between executing a first control that controls the first headlight unit to light up or flash according to the first road surface marking headlights, and a second control that controls the first road surface marking headlights differently from the first control. The lighting system also includes a second lighting unit that emits light into a second area, which is different from the first area and is part of the area surrounding the vehicle. The second headlight unit includes: a second road surface marking headlight for road surface marking; and a second vehicle headlight. The headlight control unit is configured to switch between executing a third control that controls the second headlight unit in a manner that the second road surface marking headlight illuminates or flashes according to the illumination or flashing of the second vehicle headlight, and a fourth control that performs a control on the second road surface marking headlight that is different from the third control. The second control is to make the headlights of the first vehicle illuminate or flash in the same way as the first control, and on the other hand, to turn off the headlights of the first road surface marking vehicle. The fourth control is to make the second vehicle's headlights illuminate or flash in the same way as the third control, and on the other hand, to turn off the second road marking headlights. The headlight control unit is configured to perform the third control on the second headlight unit when the second control is performed on the first headlight unit, and to perform the first control on the first headlight unit when the fourth control is performed on the second headlight unit.

2. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1, wherein, The vehicle lighting control unit includes a first vehicle lighting control unit that controls the vehicle lights of the first vehicle, and a second vehicle lighting control unit that controls the first road surface marking lights.

3. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1, wherein, The first vehicle uses turn signal lights.

4. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1, wherein, The vehicle lighting system also includes a control signal output unit, which outputs control signals to the vehicle lighting control unit based on user operations. The vehicle lighting control unit executes the first control or the second control based on the control signal output from the control signal output unit.

5. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1, wherein, The vehicle lighting system also includes an acquisition unit that acquires at least one of driving status information related to the driving status of the vehicle and surrounding environment information related to the surrounding environment of the vehicle. The vehicle lighting control unit executes the first control or the second control based on at least one of the driving status information and the surrounding environment information.

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