Lens for vehicle lamp and vehicle lamp

Abstract

Provided are: a lens for a vehicle lamp, which is capable of making a clear light and dark boundary line in a non-irradiated region that shields a shielding object present at a distance near the intersection of a horizontal line and a plumb line; it is also possible to make clear a light and dark boundary line in a non-irradiated region that shields an object to be shielded that is present at a close distance from the intersection point between the horizontal line and the plumb line to the side. A lens for a vehicle lamp projects a light distribution image including a non-irradiation region in which an object to be shielded is not irradiated and an irradiation region in which a region other than the object to be shielded is irradiated. A first non-irradiation area which shields a shielding object existing at a far distance is clearly projected on a first part which is separated by a first distance in the optical axis direction of the lens for the vehicle lamp. And clearly projecting a second non-irradiation region which shields an object to be shielded present at a close distance to a second portion which is separated by a second distance shorter than the first distance in a direction inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the optical axis of the lens for the vehicle lamp.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lens for a vehicle lamp and a vehicle lamp, and more particularly to a lens for a vehicle lamp and a vehicle lamp that can not only clearly make the light-dark boundary line of a non-illuminated area that blocks an obstruction object (such as a preceding vehicle) at a long distance near the intersection of a horizontal line and a plumb line, but also clearly make the light-dark boundary line of a non-illuminated area that blocks an obstruction object (such as an oncoming vehicle) at a short distance away to the side from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line (the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area). Background Art

[0002] In the field of vehicle lamps, there is known a vehicle lamp with variable light distribution, which detects the position (e.g., right angle and left angle) of a shielding object (e.g., a vehicle in front or an oncoming vehicle), sets a non-irradiation area that does not illuminate the shielding object based on the detected position of the shielding object, and is capable of forming a light distribution pattern in the high beam area that includes the set non-irradiation area and an irradiation area that illuminates an area other than the shielding object (e.g., refer to patent document 1).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-58802 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The inventors of the present invention conducted an in-depth study and discovered the following problem: in the vehicle lamp described in Patent Document 1, the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area that blocks a blocking object (such as a vehicle in front) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line (the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area) becomes clear, whereas the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area that blocks a blocking object (such as an oncoming vehicle) at a short distance away to the side from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line becomes unclear.

[0008] The present invention is completed to solve such problems, and its purpose is to provide a lens for a vehicle lamp and a vehicle lamp, which can not only make clear the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area that blocks a blocking object (such as a leading vehicle) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line, but also make clear the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area (the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area) that blocks a blocking object (such as an oncoming vehicle) at a close distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line to the side.

[0009] Means for solving problems

[0010] The vehicle lamp lens of the present invention projects a light distribution image, which includes a non-irradiation area that does not illuminate an obstructed object and an irradiation area that illuminates an area other than the obstructed object, wherein the vehicle lamp lens is configured to clearly project at least a first non-irradiation area in the light distribution image onto a first portion that is a first distance away in the optical axis direction of the vehicle lamp lens, and the first non-irradiation area shields an obstructed object that is located at a long distance near the intersection of a horizontal line and a plumb line, and the vehicle lamp lens is configured to clearly project at least a second non-irradiation area in the light distribution image onto a second portion that is a second distance shorter than the first distance in a direction that is inclined at a specified angle relative to the optical axis of the vehicle lamp lens, and the second non-irradiation area shields an obstructed object that is located at a short distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line to the side.

[0011] Through such a structure, not only can the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area that blocks the blocking object (such as the vehicle in front) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line be made clear, but also the light-dark boundary line (the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area) of the non-illuminated area that blocks the blocking object (such as the oncoming vehicle) at a close distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line can be made clear.

[0012] In addition, in the above-mentioned vehicle lighting lens, the clarity of the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area projected onto the first portion and the clarity of the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area projected onto the second portion may be approximately equal.

[0013] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned vehicle lamp lens, the clarity may be a G value.

[0014] Another vehicle lamp lens of the present invention projects a light distribution image, wherein the light distribution image includes a non-irradiated area that does not illuminate an obstructed object and an irradiated area that illuminates an area other than the obstructed object, wherein the vehicle lamp lens is configured so that a G value of a light-dark boundary line between the non-irradiated area and the irradiated area, projected at a long distance away from the vehicle lamp lens by a first distance, decreases as a horizontal angle relative to an optical axis of the vehicle lamp lens increases, and a G value of a light-dark boundary line between the non-irradiated area and the irradiated area, projected at a short distance away from the vehicle lamp lens by a second distance shorter than the first distance, reaches a peak value when the horizontal angle relative to the optical axis of the vehicle lamp lens is a specified angle, and decreases as the horizontal angle relative to the optical axis of the vehicle lamp lens increases from the specified angle.

[0015] Through such a structure, not only can the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area that blocks the blocking object (such as the vehicle in front) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line be made clear, but also the light-dark boundary line (the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area) of the non-illuminated area that blocks the blocking object (such as the oncoming vehicle) at a close distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line can be made clear.

[0016] In addition, in the above-mentioned vehicle lamp lens, the maximum value of the G value of the light-dark boundary line between the non-irradiated area and the illuminated area projected at a long distance away from the first distance from the vehicle lamp lens and the maximum value of the G value of the light-dark boundary line between the non-irradiated area and the illuminated area projected at a close distance away from the second distance from the vehicle lamp lens may be approximately equal.

[0017] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned vehicle lamp lens, the vehicle lamp lens may be composed of one or more lenses.

[0018] A vehicle lamp of the present invention comprises: any one of the vehicle lamp lenses described above; and a light distribution image forming unit that forms the light distribution image on an image plane of the vehicle lamp lens.

[0019] Through such a structure, not only can the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area that blocks the blocking object (such as the vehicle in front) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line be made clear, but also the light-dark boundary line (the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area) of the non-illuminated area that blocks the blocking object (such as the oncoming vehicle) at a close distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line can be made clear.

[0020] Effects of the Invention

[0021] According to the present invention, a lens for a vehicle lamp and a vehicle lamp can be provided, which can not only make clear the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area that blocks a blocking object (such as a vehicle in front) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line, but also make clear the light-dark boundary line of the non-illuminated area (the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area) that blocks a blocking object (such as an oncoming vehicle) at a close distance away to the side from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the projection lens 10 .

[0023] Figure 2 This is an example of a light distribution image projected by the projection lens 10 .

[0024] Figure 3 : is a graph (simulation result) showing the relationship between the G value (sharpness) of the bright / dark boundary line projected by the projection lens 10 and the left-right angle.

[0025] Figure 4 Graph (simulation result) showing the relationship between the G value (sharpness) and the left-right angle of the bright-dark boundary line projected by the projection lens of the comparative example.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing a situation where the range indicated by the reference symbol W where a pedestrian exists becomes unclear (in a blurred state).

[0027] Fig. 6A It is a graph (simulation result) showing the relationship between the left-right angle (lateral angle) and the distance between the own vehicle and the oncoming vehicle in the traveling direction Y.

[0028] Figure 6B Yes means Fig. 6A A schematic diagram of the situation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Hereinafter, a projection lens 10 as an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each of the drawings, the same reference numerals are given to corresponding components, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0030] Figure 1 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the projection lens 10 . Figure 2 This is an example of a light distribution image projected by the projection lens 10 .

[0031] The projection lens 10 is a lens for a vehicle lamp that projects a light distribution image including a non-irradiation area (for example, see Figure 2The non-irradiation areas A1 and A2 in FIG. 1 and the irradiation areas (for example, referring to FIG. 1 ) excluding the blocked object. Figure 2 In addition, the light distribution image can also be called a light source.

[0032] The projection lens 10 is configured to project at least the first non-irradiation region A1 (including the bright and dark boundaries E1 and E2 between the first non-irradiation region A1 and the irradiation region A3) in the light distribution image. Figure 2 ) is clearly projected to a first portion away from a first distance (e.g., 200 m in front or infinitely far) in the direction of the optical axis AX of the projection lens 10, the first non-irradiated area A1 blocks a shielding object (e.g., a vehicle ahead) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line H and the vertical line V, and the projection lens 10 is configured to project at least a second non-irradiated area A2 (including the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 between the second non-irradiated area A2 and the irradiated area A3) in the light distribution image. Figure 2 ) is clearly projected onto a second portion which is a second distance (e.g., 25 m) shorter than the first distance and in a direction inclined at a specified angle (e.g., 5 degrees) relative to the optical axis AX of the projection lens 10, and the second non-irradiated area A2 blocks a shielding object (e.g., an oncoming vehicle) which is at a close distance to the side from the intersection of the horizontal line H and the plumb line V.

[0033] Hereinafter, the projection lens 10 will be described in detail.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, in order to correct aberrations (field curvature, etc.), the projection lens 10 is composed of three lenses L1, L2, and L3. The structure of the three lenses L1, L2, and L3 will be described later. In addition, the projection lens 10 is not limited to three lenses, and can also be composed of one, two, or four or more lenses.

[0035] The projection lens 10 projects a light distribution image formed on an image plane 20 (plane) after aberrations (field curvature, etc.) have been corrected. The light distribution image includes a non-irradiation area (for example, a reference area) that does not illuminate shielding objects (for example, oncoming vehicles and vehicles ahead). Figure 2 The non-irradiation areas A1 and A2 in FIG. 1 and the irradiation area (for example, referring to FIG. 1 ) excluding the shielded object. Figure 2 irradiation area A3).

[0036] The light distribution image can be formed on the wavelength conversion component (yellow phosphor plate) by excitation light (such as laser) scanned two-dimensionally by MEMS (MEMS mirror) (for example, refer to Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-140936), or by a matrix light source including a semiconductor light emitting element group arranged in a matrix (for example, refer to Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-191270), or by LCD (liquid crystal display) (for example, refer to Japanese Patent Publication No. 1-244934, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-183327), or by DMD (Digital Mirror Device) (for example, refer to Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-34785, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2004-210125). The above are examples of the light distribution image forming unit of the present invention.

[0037] Although not shown in the figure, the light distribution image is composed of a plurality of pixels (for example, 640 vertical×360 horizontal pixels) arranged in a grid pattern in the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0038] The light distribution image includes a non-irradiation area (for example, a reference area) where the shielding object (for example, an oncoming vehicle or a preceding vehicle) is not illuminated. Figure 2 The non-irradiation areas A1 and A2 in FIG. 1 and the irradiation area (for example, referring to FIG. 1 ) excluding the shielded object. Figure 2 The non-irradiation area is the same as the above-mentioned patent document 1, which is a non-irradiation area (extinguished or dimmed area) that does not illuminate the obstructing object (such as the vehicle in front or the oncoming vehicle) based on the position (such as the right angle and the left angle) of the obstructing object.

[0039] The light emitted from each pixel of the light distribution image and transmitted through the projection lens 10 is oriented with respect to the optical axis AX (extending in the vehicle front-rear direction) of the projection lens 10. Figure 1 ) is irradiated in the angular direction (angular range) corresponding to each pixel position.

[0040] For example, light Ray1 (see FIG. 1 ) emitted from a reference position of the light distribution image (eg, the center position of the light distribution image) and transmitted through the projection lens 10 Figure 1 ) is irradiated in a direction parallel to the optical axis AX (direction where the left-right angle is 0 degrees) toward the intersection of the horizontal line H and the vertical line V. In addition, for example, light Ray2 (refer to Figure 1) is irradiated in an angle direction of 5 degrees to the right with respect to the optical axis AX. Although not shown in the figure, similarly, light emitted from a pixel offset 5 degrees to the right (toward the right in front of the vehicle) with respect to the reference position and passing through the projection lens 10 is irradiated in an angle direction of 5 degrees to the left with respect to the optical axis AX. Although not shown in the figure, the light emitted from other pixels of the light distribution image and passing through the projection lens 10 is irradiated in an angle direction corresponding to each pixel position.

[0041] Figure 2 Reference numerals A1 and A2 in the figure indicate non-irradiation areas, which are hereinafter referred to as first non-irradiation areas A1 and second non-irradiation areas A2. Figure 2 The middle rectangles B (plural) correspond to the pixels constituting the light distribution image.

[0042] exist Figure 2 In the figure, the first non-irradiation area A1 indicates a non-irradiation area that shields a shielding object (here, the vehicle in front) that is located at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line H and the vertical line V. On the other hand, the second non-irradiation area A2 indicates a non-irradiation area that shields a shielding object (such as an oncoming vehicle) that is located at a short distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line H and the vertical line V. In addition, Figure 2 The reference numerals E1 and E2 in the figure represent the light-dark boundary lines as the boundary lines between the first non-irradiated area A1 and the irradiated area A3. Hereinafter, they are described as the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2. Figure 2 Reference numerals E3 and E4 in FIG. 1 represent light-dark boundary lines as the boundary lines between the second non-irradiated area A2 and the irradiated area A3 .

[0043] Here, as described above, the projection lens 10 is configured to project at least the first non-irradiation area A1 (including the bright and dark boundaries E1 and E2 between the first non-irradiation area A1 and the irradiation area A3) in the light distribution image. Figure 2 ) is clearly projected to a first portion away from a first distance (e.g., 200 m in front or infinitely far) in the direction of the optical axis AX of the projection lens 10, the first non-irradiated area A1 blocks a shielding object (e.g., a vehicle ahead) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line H and the vertical line V, and the projection lens 10 is configured to project at least a second non-irradiated area A2 (including the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 between the second non-irradiated area A2 and the irradiated area A3) in the light distribution image. Figure 2 ) is clearly projected onto a second portion which is a second distance (e.g., 25 m) shorter than the first distance and in a direction inclined at a specified angle (e.g., 5 degrees) relative to the optical axis AX of the projection lens 10, and the second non-irradiated area A2 blocks a blocking object (e.g., an oncoming vehicle) which is at a close distance to the side from the intersection of the horizontal line H and the plumb line V.

[0044] Therefore, the first non-irradiated area A1 (including the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2) and the second non-irradiated area A2 (including the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4) become clear. Figure 3 Provide explanation.

[0045] Figure 3 is a graph (simulation result) showing the relationship between the G value (sharpness) of the bright / dark boundary line projected by the projection lens 10 and the left / right angle. Figure 3 In the figure, reference numerals P1 and P2 represent pedestrians.

[0046] exist Figure 3 In FIG. 1 , the vertical axis represents the maximum G value, and the horizontal axis represents the left-right angle relative to the optical axis AX. Figure 3 In the figure, the solid line "10m" indicates the maximum G value of the light-dark boundary line projected 10m ahead in each left and right angle direction. Figure 3 In the figure, the short dashed line "25m" indicates the maximum G value of the light-dark boundary line projected 25m ahead in each left and right angle direction. Figure 3 In the figure, the long dashed line "200m" represents the maximum G value projected to the light-dark boundary line 200m ahead in each left and right angular direction.

[0047] The G value is an indicator of the clarity of the light-dark boundary line. A larger G value indicates a higher clarity (i.e., clarity). The G value is calculated by the following formula. β Indicates the angle β (refer to Figure 2 )'s luminosity (cd).

[0048] G=(logE β -logE (β+0.1°) )

[0049] Reference Figure 3 It can be seen that the maximum G value at "200m" when the left and right angle is 0 degrees is the maximum or maximum (0.67), and the maximum G value at "25m" when the left and right angle is 5 degrees is the maximum (0.65), that is, the two maximum G values ​​are approximately equal. This means that at Figure 2 In the diagram, the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2 projected to "200m" ahead at a left-right angle of 0 degrees (i.e., the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2 projected to a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line H and the plumb line V) are clear, and the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 projected to "25m" ahead at a left-right angle of 5 degrees (i.e., the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 projected to a short distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line H and the plumb line V to the side) are clear.

[0050] Thus, the projection lens 10 is configured such that the G value of the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2 between the first non-irradiated area A1 and the irradiated area A3 projected at a long distance away from the projection lens 10 by a first distance (e.g., 200 m) decreases as the left-right angle (an example of the horizontal angle of the present invention) relative to the optical axis AX of the projection lens 10 increases (see Figure 3 ). In addition, the projection lens 10 is configured such that the G value of the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 between the second non-irradiated area A2 and the irradiated area A3 projected at a close distance from the projection lens 10 at a second distance (e.g., 25 m) shorter than the first distance becomes a peak value when the left-right angle (an example of the horizontal angle of the present invention) relative to the optical axis AX of the projection lens 10 is a predetermined angle (e.g., 5 degrees), and becomes smaller as the left-right angle (an example of the horizontal angle of the present invention) relative to the optical axis AX of the projection lens becomes larger than the predetermined angle (e.g., 5 degrees) (see Figure 3 ).

[0051] Next, the projection lens 10 (three lenses L1, L2, L3. See FIG. 1 ) which can clearly project the non-irradiation areas A1 and A2 (bright-dark boundaries E1 to E4) as described above. Figure 1 ) is described with reference to a structural example (simulation result).

[0052] Lens L3 is a converging lens (meniscus lens). The relationship between the thickness and width of lens L3 is a ratio greater than 0.5. Lens L3 is a rotating body centered on the optical axis AX. Figure 1 As shown, the lens L3 includes an incident surface 6 and an exit surface 5. The incident surface 6 is a concave spherical surface, and the exit surface 5 is a convex spherical surface (a hemispherical light exit refraction surface). The curvature radius of the exit surface 5 is more than twice the thickness of the lens L3.

[0053] Lens L2 is a converging lens (biconvex lens). The relationship between the thickness and width of lens L2 is a ratio greater than 0.5. Lens L2 is a rotating body centered on the optical axis AX. Figure 1 As shown, the lens L2 includes an incident surface 4 and an exit surface 3. The incident surface 4 and the exit surface 3 are convex spherical surfaces (aspherical refractive surfaces) respectively.

[0054] Lens L1 is a diverging lens (meniscus lens). The relationship between the thickness and width of lens L1 is a ratio greater than 0.5. Lens L1 is a rotating body centered on the optical axis AX. Figure 1 As shown, the lens L1 includes an incident surface 2 and an exit surface 1. The incident surface 2 is a concave spherical surface (aspherical refractive surface), and the exit surface 1 is a convex spherical surface (aspherical refractive surface).

[0055] Table 1 below is an example of lens data of the projection lens 10 (three lenses L1, L2, and L3).

[0056] [Table 1]

[0057]

[0058] The following formula is an example of aspheric coefficients.

[0059]

[0060] Table 2 below is an example of each parameter of the above-mentioned aspheric coefficient.

[0061] [Table 2]

[0062]

[0063] In addition, the conditions of the projection lens 10 (3 lenses L1, L2, L3) that can clearly project the non-irradiated areas A1, A2 (bright and dark boundaries E1 to E4) as described above vary depending on the number of lenses constituting the projection lens 10, the shape of the lens surface (incident surface, exit surface) of each lens, the lens thickness, the configuration, etc. Therefore, it is difficult to express the conditions of the projection lens 10 (3 lenses L1, L2, L3) using specific numerical values, etc.

[0064] However, by, for example, using prescribed software (e.g., OpticStudio), changing (adjusting) at least one of the conditions of the projection lens 10 (three lenses L1, L2, and L3), and confirming the G value each time a change is made, it is possible to find the conditions of the projection lens 10 (three lenses L1, L2, and L3) (optimization of the projection lens 10).

[0065] Next, the effects of the projection lens 10 will be described in comparison with a comparative example.

[0066] Figure 4 Graph (simulation result) showing the relationship between the G value (sharpness) and the left-right angle of the bright-dark boundary line projected by the projection lens of the comparative example.

[0067] exist Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the vertical axis represents the maximum G value, and the horizontal axis represents the left-right angle relative to the optical axis AX. Figure 4 In the figure, the solid line "10m" indicates the maximum G value of the light-dark boundary line projected 10m ahead in each left and right angle direction. Figure 4 In the figure, the short dashed line "25m" indicates the maximum G value of the light-dark boundary line projected 25m ahead in each left and right angle direction. Figure 4 In the figure, the long dashed line "200m" represents the maximum G value projected to the light-dark boundary line 200m ahead in each left and right angular direction.

[0068] The projection lens of the comparative example is a conventional projection lens, and is configured to project at least the first non-irradiation area A1 (including the bright and dark boundaries E1 and E2 between the first non-irradiation area A1 and the irradiation area A3) in the light distribution image. Figure 2 ) is clearly projected to a first portion at a first distance (e.g., 200 m in front or infinity) in the direction of the optical axis AX of the projection lens 10, and the first non-irradiated area A1 blocks a shielding object (e.g., a vehicle in front) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line H and the vertical line V. That is, the projection lens of the comparative example is different from the projection lens 10 of the present embodiment, and is not configured to project at least the second non-irradiated area A2 (including the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 between the second non-irradiated area A2 and the irradiated area A3) in the light distribution image. Figure 2 ) is clearly projected onto a second portion which is a second distance (e.g., 25 m) shorter than the first distance and in a direction inclined at a specified angle (e.g., 5 degrees) relative to the optical axis AX of the projection lens 10, and the second non-irradiated area A2 blocks a blocking object (e.g., an oncoming vehicle) which is at a close distance to the side from the intersection of the horizontal line H and the plumb line V.

[0069] Reference Figure 4 It can be seen that in any of the ranges "10m", "25m", and "200m", the maximum G value is the largest when the left-right angle is 0 degrees, and the maximum G value decreases as the left-right angle increases from 0 degrees. Figure 2 In the figure, the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2 projected to "200m" ahead at a left-right angle of 0 degrees (i.e., the light-dark boundary lines projected to a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line H and the plumb line V) are clear, and the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 projected to "25m" ahead at a left-right angle of 5 degrees (i.e., the light-dark boundary lines projected to a short distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line to the side) are not clear (visually recognized as unclear).

[0070] In this way, if the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 (i.e., the light-dark boundary lines projected at a short distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line to the side) become unclear (blurred), it is necessary to increase the non-illuminated area to avoid glare to the shielding object (e.g., the vehicle in front, the oncoming vehicle), so that the area near the shielding object (e.g., the vehicle in front, the oncoming vehicle) becomes darker and the visual recognition is reduced. Therefore, there is a problem such as the following: pedestrians near the shielding object (e.g., the vehicle in front, the oncoming vehicle) cannot be noticed, which becomes the cause of accidents. Figure 5 2 is a diagram showing a situation where the range indicated by the reference symbol W where a pedestrian exists becomes unclear (blurred). Figure 5 In the figure, reference numerals P1 and P2 represent pedestrians.

[0071] In contrast, the projection lens 10 of the present embodiment has the following advantages: as described above, in addition to the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2 projected to the front "200m" in the direction of the left-right angle of 0 degrees (i.e., the light-dark boundary lines projected to the long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line H and the plumb line V), the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 projected to the front "25m" in the direction of the left-right angle of 5 degrees (i.e., the light-dark boundary lines projected to the short distance away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line to the side) also become clear. Therefore, the non-irradiated area (e.g., the first non-irradiated area A1 and the second non-irradiated area A2) can be reduced, and thus there is also an advantage of improving the light utilization efficiency when projecting the non-irradiated area (e.g., the first non-irradiated area A1 and the second non-irradiated area A2). In addition, since pedestrians near the shielding object (e.g., the preceding vehicle, the oncoming vehicle) can be brightly illuminated, pedestrians near the shielding object (e.g., the preceding vehicle, the oncoming vehicle) can be recognized as early as possible, and as a result, there is also an advantage of being able to help reduce accidents.

[0072] Fig. 6A It is a graph (simulation result) showing the relationship between the left-right angle (lateral angle) and the distance between the own vehicle and the oncoming vehicle in the traveling direction Y. Figure 6B Yes means Fig. 6A A schematic diagram of the situation.

[0073] exist Fig. 6A In the figure, the vertical axis represents the left-right angle (lateral angle), while the horizontal axis represents the distance Y between the vehicle and the oncoming vehicle in the travel direction. Figure 6B In the figure, the reference numeral V0 represents the host vehicle, and the reference numeral V1 represents the oncoming vehicle. In the following, the host vehicle V0 and the oncoming vehicle V1 are described. Figure 6B In the figure, reference numeral L1 represents a straight line that is irradiated from a vehicle lamp (projection lens 10) mounted on the left front of the vehicle V0 and passes through the right rear of the oncoming vehicle V1. On the other hand, reference numeral L2 represents a straight line that is irradiated from a vehicle lamp (projection lens 10) mounted on the right front of the vehicle V0 and passes through the right rear of the oncoming vehicle V1.

[0074] exist Fig. 6A The solid line indicates Figure 6B The relationship between L3 (the distance between the vehicle and the oncoming vehicle in the Y direction) and θ1 (the lateral angle) in the figure. On the other hand, the dotted line indicates Figure 6B The relationship between L3 (the distance between the vehicle and the oncoming vehicle in the travel direction Y) and θ2 (the lateral angle).

[0075] In this embodiment, when the oncoming vehicle V1 is shielded by the vehicle lamps on the left and right sides, Fig. 6AThe range of the elliptical area C in the figure, that is, the "25m" in the direction of the left and right angle (lateral angle) of 5 degrees, so that the light-dark boundary lines (such as the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4. Figure 2 By adopting this range, it can be expected that the influence is smaller than the difference in the installation position of the left and right vehicle lamps (including the projection lens 10), and the effect is exerted when comparing within a wide range.

[0076] As described above, according to the present embodiment, not only can the light-dark boundary lines (e.g., the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2 between the first non-irradiation area A1 and the irradiation area A3) of the non-irradiation area (e.g., the first non-irradiation area A1) that blocks the obstruction object (e.g., the vehicle ahead) at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line H and the vertical line V be made larger, but also the light-dark boundary lines E1 and E2 between the first non-irradiation area A1 and the irradiation area A3 can be made larger. Figure 2 ) can also make the light-dark boundary lines (e.g., the light-dark boundary lines E3 and E4 between the second non-irradiation area A2 and the irradiation area A3) of the non-irradiation area (e.g., the second non-irradiation area A2) that blocks the blocking object (e.g., the oncoming vehicle) at a close distance to the side from the intersection of the horizontal line H and the plumb line V. Figure 2 ) is clear.

[0077] Next, modified examples will be described.

[0078] In the above embodiment, the projection lens 10 is described as having a maximum G value (0.67) at a left-right angle of 0 degrees at "200m" and a maximum G value (0.65) at a left-right angle of 5 degrees at "25m", but is not limited thereto.

[0079] That is, "200m" or "25m" may also be other values. In addition, the left-right angle is not limited to 5 degrees, but may be other angles. In addition, the left-right angle is not limited to 1 angle of 5 degrees, but may be multiple angles such as 5 degrees or 10 degrees. In this case, the multiple angles may be discrete or continuous.

[0080] The numerical values ​​shown in the above-mentioned embodiments are all examples, and it is of course possible to use appropriate numerical values ​​different from them.

[0081] The above-mentioned embodiments are merely illustrative in all aspects. The present invention is not to be interpreted restrictively by the description of the above-mentioned embodiments. The present invention can be implemented in various other forms without departing from the spirit or main features thereof.

[0082] This application claims priority based on Japanese patent application No. 2022-132426 filed on August 23, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0083] Description of Reference Numerals

[0084] 1...Ejection surface

[0085] 2…Entrance surface

[0086] 3…Exit surface

[0087] 4…Entrance surface

[0088] 5…Exit surface

[0089] 6…Entrance surface

[0090] 10…Projection lens

[0091] 20…Image plane

[0092] A1, A2... non-irradiated areas

[0093] A3…Irradiation area

[0094] AX…Optical axis

[0095] B…Rectangular

[0096] C…ellipse area

[0097] E1~E4…Border between light and dark

[0098] L1~L3…Lens

[0099] V0…This car

[0100] V1…oncoming vehicle

Claims

1. A lens for a vehicle lamp, which projects a light distribution image, the light distribution image including a non-irradiation area that does not illuminate an obstruction object and an irradiation area that illuminates an area other than the obstruction object, wherein: The vehicle lamp lens is configured to clearly project at least a first non-irradiated area in the light distribution image onto a first portion that is a first distance away in the direction of the optical axis of the vehicle lamp lens, and the first non-irradiated area blocks an obstruction object that is located at a long distance near the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line. Furthermore, the vehicle lamp lens is configured to clearly project at least a second non-irradiated area in the light distribution image onto a second portion that is a second distance shorter than the first distance away in a direction that is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis of the vehicle lamp lens, and the second non-irradiated area blocks an obstruction object that is located at a short distance that is laterally away from the intersection of the horizontal line and the plumb line.

2. The vehicle lamp lens according to claim 1, wherein: The clarity of the light-dark boundary line between the first non-irradiated area and the illuminated area is substantially equal to the clarity of the light-dark boundary line between the second non-irradiated area and the illuminated area.

3. The vehicle lamp lens according to claim 2, wherein: The clarity is the G value.

4. A lens for a vehicle lamp, which projects a light distribution image, wherein the light distribution image includes a non-irradiation area that does not illuminate an obstructing object and an irradiation area that illuminates an area other than the obstructing object, wherein: The vehicle lamp lens is configured as follows: The G value of the bright-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area projected at a distance far from the vehicle lamp lens by a first distance decreases as the horizontal angle relative to the optical axis of the vehicle lamp lens increases. The G value of the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area, which is projected at a close distance from the lens of the vehicle lamp, which is a second distance shorter than the first distance, reaches a peak value when the horizontal angle relative to the optical axis of the lens of the vehicle lamp is a specified angle, and decreases as the horizontal angle relative to the optical axis of the lens of the vehicle lamp increases from the specified angle.

5. The vehicle lamp lens according to claim 4, wherein: The maximum value of the G value of the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area projected at a long distance away from the first distance from the lens of the vehicle lamp is approximately equal to the maximum value of the G value of the light-dark boundary line between the non-illuminated area and the illuminated area projected at a close distance away from the lens of the vehicle lamp at the second distance.

6. The vehicle lamp lens according to claim 1, wherein: The vehicle lamp lens is composed of one or more lenses.

7. The vehicle lamp lens according to claim 4, wherein: The vehicle lamp lens is composed of one or more lenses.

8. A vehicle lamp, comprising: The vehicle lamp lens according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and A light distribution image forming unit forms the light distribution image on an image plane of the vehicle lamp lens.

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