Drawing lamp

Abstract

Light emitted from the first light-emitting element (20A) and the second light-emitting element (20B) is irradiated toward the front of the lamp via the projection lens (30). The projection lens (30) is integrally formed in a state in which a first projection lens section (32A) for long-distance drawing and a second projection lens section (32B) for short-distance drawing are arranged in the left-right direction and in a state in which lens effective surfaces are adjacent to each other. Furthermore, a first opening part (40Aa) and a second opening part (40Ba) are formed at positions on the lamp rear side of the first projection lens part (32A) and the second projection lens part (32B) as the light shielding plate (40), and a first light-emitting element (20A) and a second light-emitting element (20B) are arranged on the lamp rear side of the first projection lens part (32A) and the second projection lens part (32B).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drawing lamp configured to form a light distribution pattern for drawing. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a drawing lamp for forming a drawing light distribution pattern for drawing characters, symbols, etc. on the road surface in front of the lamp, there is known a drawing lamp configured to irradiate light emitted from a light emitting element toward the front of the lamp via a projection lens.

[0003] Patent document 1 describes, as a structure of a projection lens in a vehicle-mounted drawing lamp, a drawing lamp in which a first projection lens portion for long-distance drawing and a second projection lens portion for close-range drawing are integrally formed in a state where they are arranged in a desired direction (e.g., a vehicle width direction) intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp.

[0004] In addition, Patent Document 1 describes a drawing lamp in which a first projection lens unit for long-distance drawing, a second projection lens unit for close-distance drawing, and a third projection lens unit for extremely close-distance drawing are arranged in a desired direction (e.g., a vehicle width direction) intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp.

[0005] In the drawing lamp described in Patent Document 1, a light shielding plate for shielding a portion of light from the first to third light emitting elements toward the first to third projection lenses is disposed between the first to third projection lenses and the first to third light emitting elements disposed at the rear side of the lamp. Thus, the drawing lamp forms three drawing light distribution patterns for long-distance drawing, short-distance drawing, and very short-distance drawing as drawing light distribution patterns.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2022 / 019231 Summary of the invention

[0009] Technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] By forming a depiction light distribution pattern using the irradiation light from the vehicle-mounted depiction lamp, the vehicle can indicate its intention to the surroundings when the vehicle is traveling at night, etc. This can draw the attention of other vehicles, pedestrians, etc.

[0011] However, the projection lens of the image drawing lamp described in Patent Document 1 is arranged in a state where the first projection lens portion and the second projection lens portion are separated from each other, so the lamp is increased in size.

[0012] A first object of the present invention is to provide an image drawing lamp configured to form an image drawing light distribution pattern, wherein the image drawing light distribution pattern can be formed without increasing the size of the lamp.

[0013] In addition, as in the image drawing lamp described in Patent Document 1, by forming three image drawing light distribution patterns for long-distance image drawing, short-distance image drawing, and very short-distance image drawing, the function of alerting the surroundings can be enhanced.

[0014] However, since three projection lens units are arranged to form three image drawing light distribution patterns, it is not easy to secure arrangement space.

[0015] A second object of the present invention is to provide an image drawing lamp configured to form an image drawing light distribution pattern, wherein the arrangement space for a projection lens can be easily secured and the image drawing light distribution pattern can be formed with an excellent function of alerting the surroundings.

[0016] Technical solutions to the problem

[0017] A drawing lamp according to a first aspect of the present invention is configured as follows:

[0018] The light emitted from the light emitting element is irradiated toward the front of the lamp through the projection lens to form a light distribution pattern for drawing, wherein:

[0019] A light shielding plate for shielding a portion of light from the light emitting element toward the projection lens is arranged between the light emitting element and the projection lens.

[0020] The projection lens is formed integrally with a first projection lens portion for long-distance rendering and a second projection lens portion for short-distance rendering arranged in a desired direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp and with lens effective surfaces adjacent to each other.

[0021] A first opening and a second opening are formed in the light shielding plate at the rear side of the lamp of the first projection lens unit and the second projection lens unit.

[0022] The image drawing lamp includes a first light emitting element and a second light emitting element as the light emitting elements, which are arranged on the lamp rear side of the first opening and the second opening.

[0023] A drawing lamp according to a second aspect of the present invention is configured as follows:

[0024] The light emitted from the light emitting element is directed toward the front of the lamp through the projection lens to form a light distribution pattern for drawing.

[0025] A light shielding plate for shielding a portion of light from the light emitting element toward the projection lens is arranged between the light emitting element and the projection lens.

[0026] The projection lens is arranged in a state where a first projection lens unit for long-distance image drawing and a second projection lens unit for short-distance image drawing are arranged in a desired direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp.

[0027] A plurality of openings are formed in the light shielding plate.

[0028] The shading plate includes a first opening arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the first projection lens unit and a plurality of second openings arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the second projection lens unit as the plurality of openings.

[0029] The image drawing lamp includes, as the light emitting elements, a first light emitting element arranged on the lamp rear side of the first opening and second light emitting elements arranged on the lamp rear sides of the plurality of second openings.

[0030] Effects of the Invention

[0031] The drawing lamp involved in the first embodiment of the present invention is a structure that forms a drawing light distribution pattern by irradiating the emitted light from the light emitting element toward the front of the lamp via the projection lens, but the projection lens is a structure in which a first projection lens part for long-distance drawing and a second projection lens part for close-distance drawing are arranged in a desired direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp. On this basis, a first opening part and a second opening part are formed on a shading plate arranged between the light emitting element and the projection lens at the rear side of the lamp of the first projection lens part and the second projection lens part, and the first light emitting element and the second light emitting element are arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the first opening part and the second opening part, so that the drawing light distribution pattern can be formed at both the far and near parts.

[0032] In this case, the first projection lens unit and the second projection lens unit are integrally formed with their respective lens effective surfaces being adjacent to each other. Therefore, it is possible to form a light distribution pattern for drawing without increasing the size of the lamp.

[0033] As described above, according to the image drawing lamp according to the first aspect of the present invention, in the image drawing lamp configured to form a light distribution pattern for image drawing, the light distribution pattern for image drawing can be formed without increasing the size of the lamp.

[0034] Moreover, in the drawing lamp involved in the first embodiment of the present invention, the lens effective surfaces of the first projection lens unit and the second projection lens unit are formed integrally in a state of being adjacent to each other, thereby making the projection lenses appear to be a collection of lenses, thereby improving the design of the first projection lens unit and the second projection lens unit.

[0035] The drawing lamp involved in the second embodiment of the present invention is configured to form a drawing light distribution pattern by irradiating the emitted light from the light emitting element toward the front of the lamp through the projection lens. The projection lens is arranged in a state where a first projection lens portion for long-distance drawing and a second projection lens portion for close-range drawing are arranged in a desired direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp. In addition, in a shading plate arranged between the light emitting element and the projection lens, a first opening portion is formed on the rear side of the lamp of the first projection lens portion, and a plurality of second opening portions are formed on the rear side of the lamp of the second projection lens portion. Moreover, a first light emitting element is arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the first opening portion, and a second light emitting element is arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the plurality of second opening portions.

[0036] The emitted light from the first light emitting element incident on the first projection lens unit can form a depiction light distribution pattern in a long-distance area as an inverted projection image formed on the first opening of the shading plate. In addition, the emitted light from the second light emitting element incident on the second projection lens unit can form a plurality of depiction light distribution patterns in a short-distance area as inverted projection images formed on the plurality of second openings of the shading plate.

[0037] In order to clearly form the image-drawing light distribution pattern formed in the long-distance area, a clear reverse projection image needs to be formed through the first opening. In order to clearly form the image-drawing light distribution pattern formed in the short-distance area, it is not necessary to form such a clear reverse projection image through the second opening.

[0038] Therefore, by forming a plurality of light distribution patterns for depiction in the close-range area using the light emitted from the second light-emitting element incident on the second projection lens unit via the plurality of second openings formed in the shading plate, it is possible to easily ensure the configuration space of the projection lens. Therefore, three or more light distribution patterns for depiction are formed with the required clarity. Thus, the function of reminding the surroundings to be aware of the surroundings can be improved.

[0039] According to the second aspect of the present invention, in the image drawing lamp configured to form an image drawing light distribution pattern, a configuration can be made to easily secure a space for arranging a projection lens, and can form an image drawing light distribution pattern that has an excellent function of alerting the surroundings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1It is a front view showing the drawing lamp according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 It is a plan view showing the image drawing lamp according to the first embodiment.

[0042] Figure 3 It is a side view showing the drawing lamp according to the first embodiment.

[0043] Figure 4 It is an exploded perspective view showing main components of the image drawing lamp according to the first embodiment.

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view at line VV of FIG.

[0045] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view at line VI-VI.

[0046] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view at line VII-VII.

[0047] Figure 8 This is a side view showing a state where the image drawing lamp is mounted on a vehicle.

[0048] Fig. 9 This is a plan view showing a state where the image drawing lamp is mounted on a vehicle.

[0049] Fig.10 It is a plan view showing a drawing lamp according to a first modified example of the first embodiment.

[0050] Fig.11 It is a plan view showing a drawing lamp according to a second modified example of the first embodiment.

[0051] Fig.12 It is a front view showing a drawing lamp according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Fig.13 It is a plan view showing a drawing lamp according to a second embodiment.

[0053] Fig.14 It is a side view showing the drawing lamp according to the second embodiment.

[0054] Fig.15 It is an exploded perspective view showing main components of the image drawing lamp according to the second embodiment.

[0055] Fig.16 yes Fig.12Cross-sectional view taken along line XVI-XVI of FIG.

[0056] Fig.17 yes Fig.12 Cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII.

[0057] Fig.18 This is a side view showing a state where the image drawing lamp is mounted on a vehicle.

[0058] Fig.19 This is a plan view showing a state where the image drawing lamp is mounted on a vehicle.

[0059] Fig. 20 It is a cross-sectional view showing a drawing lamp according to a first modified example of the second embodiment.

[0060] Fig.21 It is a cross-sectional view showing a drawing lamp according to a second modified example of the second embodiment.

[0061] Fig. 22 It is a cross-sectional view showing a drawing lamp according to a third modified example of the second embodiment.

[0062] Fig.23 It is a plan view showing a state where a drawing lamp according to a third modified example of the second embodiment is mounted on a vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described using the drawings.

[0064] (First Embodiment)

[0065] Figure 1 1 is a front view showing a drawing lamp 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 It is a plan view showing the image drawing lamp 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 1 is a side view showing the drawing lamp 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 It is an exploded perspective view showing main components of the image drawing lamp 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0066] exist Figure 1 to Figure 4 In the figure, the direction indicated by X is the "front of the lamp", the direction indicated by Y is the "left direction" orthogonal to the "front of the lamp" (the "right direction" when observing the lamp from the front), and the direction indicated by Z is the "upward direction". Figure 1 to Figure 4 The same applies to other figures.

[0067] Before describing the specific structure of the image drawing lamp 10 according to the present embodiment, an outline thereof will be described.

[0068] Figure 8 It is a side view showing a state where the image drawing lamp 10 is mounted on the vehicle 100 . Fig. 9 1 is a top view showing a state where the image drawing lamp 10 is mounted on the vehicle 100. Fig. 9 The drawing lamp 10 on the left is shown in a lighted state.

[0069] like Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 As shown, the depiction lamp 10 is configured to irradiate light obliquely downward toward the outer side in the vehicle width direction in a state of being mounted on the side end in the vehicle width direction of the front end of the vehicle 100. The depiction lamp 10 is lit synchronously with the lighting of the front turn signal lamp (not shown). As a result, a depiction light distribution pattern PA is formed on the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle.

[0070] like Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the drawing lamp 10 is mounted on the vehicle 100, the front face of the lamp is arranged to face in a direction inclined obliquely downward relative to the front-rear direction of the vehicle. Figure 1 to Figure 4 As shown, when the image drawing lamp 10 is a single product, the front surface of the lamp is configured to face the horizontal direction.

[0071] Next, the specific structure of the image drawing lamp 10 will be described.

[0072] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view at line VV of FIG. Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view at line VI-VI. Figure 7 yes Figure 1 Cross-sectional view at line VII-VII.

[0073] like Figure 5 to Figure 7 As shown, the image drawing lamp 10 is configured to irradiate light emitted from the light emitting element toward the front of the lamp via a projection lens 30. The image drawing lamp 10 includes three light emitting elements, namely, a first light emitting element 20A, a second light emitting element 20B, and a third light emitting element 20C.

[0074] The projection lens 30 is configured such that the first projection lens unit 32A, the second projection lens unit 32B, and the third projection lens unit 32C are integrally formed in a state of being arranged in the left-right direction. At this time, the first projection lens unit 32A, the second projection lens unit 32B, and the third projection lens unit 32C are formed so that their respective optical axes Axa, Axb, and Axc extend in the front-rear direction of the lamp at the same height position.

[0075] The first projection lens unit 32A located on the right side (left side when viewing the lamp from the front) is a projection lens unit for long-distance drawing. The second projection lens unit 32B located in the center is a projection lens unit for close-range drawing. The third projection lens unit 32C located on the left side is a projection lens unit for very close-range drawing.

[0076] The first projection lens unit 32A, the second projection lens unit 32B, and the third projection lens unit 32C are plano-convex lenses whose front surfaces 32Aa, 32Ba, and 32Ca are convex surfaces, and have a rectangular shape when the lamp is viewed from the front. Moreover, the first projection lens unit 32A to the third projection lens unit 32C are formed integrally with their respective lens effective surfaces (i.e., the front surfaces 32Aa to 32Ca that perform lens functions) being adjacent to each other.

[0077] Specifically, the first projection lens unit 32A to the third projection lens unit 32C are formed with the same vertical width, but the horizontal width of the first projection lens unit 32A is larger than that of the second projection lens unit 32B and the third projection lens unit 32C. That is, the first projection lens unit 32A is formed to have a substantially square outer shape when the lamp is viewed from the front, but the second projection lens unit 32B and the third projection lens unit 32C are each formed to have a vertically long rectangular outer shape when the lamp is viewed from the front.

[0078] The first projection lens unit 32A to the third projection lens unit 32C are arranged in a state of stepwise displacement toward the rear side of the lamp in this order. The first projection lens unit 32A and the second projection lens unit 32B are arranged so that the rear focal points Fa and Fb of the first projection lens unit 32A and the second projection lens unit 32B are at the same position in the front-to-back direction of the lamp. However, the third projection lens unit 32C is arranged so that the rear focal point Fc of the third projection lens unit 32C is located at a position closer to the rear side of the lamp than the rear focal points Fa and Fb. That is, the focal length of the first projection lens unit 32A, which is larger in size than the second projection lens unit 32B, is a value larger than the focal length of the second projection lens unit 32B. In addition, the focal length of the third projection lens unit 32C is a value substantially the same as the focal length of the second projection lens unit 32B.

[0079] The first to third projection lens portions 32A to 32C are surrounded by an outer peripheral flange portion 34 formed in a stepped manner along the rear surface thereof. A pair of mounting flange portions 36 are formed on the left and right sides of the outer peripheral flange portion 34. The left and right pair of mounting flange portions 36 have an L-shaped horizontal cross-sectional shape with different lengths in the front-rear direction of the lamp. The rear end surfaces of the left and right pair of mounting flange portions 36 are formed to be located on the same plane orthogonal to the front-rear direction of the lamp.

[0080] The first to third light emitting elements 20A to 20C are all white light emitting diodes, and have a rectangular (specifically, square) light emitting surface 20 a .

[0081] The first to third light emitting elements 20A to 20C are mounted on a common substrate 22 and arranged behind the first to third projection lens portions 32A to 32C. The substrate 22 is supported by the heat sink 60 and arranged to extend along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the lamp.

[0082] A light shielding plate 40 is disposed between the first light emitting element 20A to the third light emitting element 20C and the first projection lens unit 32A to the third projection lens unit 32C. The light shielding plate 40 is used to shield a portion of the light from the first light emitting element 20A to the third light emitting element 20C toward the first projection lens unit 32A to the third projection lens unit 32C. The light shielding plate 40 is composed of a thin plate extending along a plane orthogonal to the front-rear direction of the lamp.

[0083] The shading plate 40 is positioned so that its left and right ends abut against the left and right mounting flanges 36 of the projection lens 30 from the rear side of the lamp. Thus, it is arranged along the vertical plane including the rear focal points Fa and Fb of the first projection lens unit 32A and the second projection lens unit 32B.

[0084] A first opening 40Aa, a second opening 40Ba, and a third opening 40Ca are formed in the light shielding plate 40 at the rear side of the first projection lens section 32A, the second projection lens section 32B, and the third projection lens section 32C.

[0085] The first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca all have a V-shaped opening shape when the lamp is viewed from the front. The opening angle of the V-shape is about 90° to 150° (for example, about 120°).

[0086] Among the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca, the second opening 40Ba is located above the first opening 40Aa. In addition, the third opening 40Ca is located above the second opening 40Ba.

[0087] Specifically, the first opening 40Aa is formed so that the central lower end position of the upper inner peripheral edge thereof is located below the optical axis Axa of the first projection lens unit 32A. The second opening 40Ba is formed so that the central lower end position of the upper inner peripheral edge thereof is located on the optical axis Axb of the second projection lens unit 32B. The third opening 40Ca is formed so that the central lower end position of the upper inner peripheral edge thereof is located above the optical axis Axc of the third projection lens unit 32C. At this time, the upper displacement amount Dc of the central lower end position of the upper inner peripheral edge of the third opening 40Ca from the optical axis Axc is greater than the lower displacement amount Da of the central lower end position of the upper inner peripheral edge of the first opening 40Aa from the optical axis Axa. For example, the upper displacement amount Dc of the central lower end position of the upper inner peripheral edge of the third opening 40Ca from the optical axis Axc may be about twice the lower displacement amount Da of the central lower end position of the upper inner peripheral edge of the first opening 40Aa from the optical axis Axa.

[0088] Among the first to third openings 40Aa to 40Ca, the second opening 40Ba is formed with a larger vertical width than the first opening 40Aa. In addition, the third opening 40Ca is formed with a larger vertical width than the second opening 40Ba.

[0089] In addition, the inner peripheral edges of the left and right sides of the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca are all extended upward in a direction slightly wider than the vertical direction. The left and right width of the second opening 40Ba is slightly larger than that of the first opening 40Aa. In addition, the left and right width of the third opening 40Ca is slightly larger than that of the second opening 40Ba.

[0090] The first light emitting element 20A is arranged below the optical axis Axa of the first projection lens unit 32A. The second light emitting element 20B is arranged on the optical axis Axb of the second projection lens unit 32B. The third light emitting element 20C is arranged above the optical axis Axc of the third projection lens unit 32C.

[0091] Specifically, the first light emitting element 20A, the second light emitting element 20B, and the third light emitting element 20C are arranged to be located on the first reference axis La, the second reference axis Lb, and the third reference axis Lc. The first reference axis La, the second reference axis Lb, and the third reference axis Lc extend in the front-rear direction of the lamp in such a manner that the light emission center of each of the first light emitting element 20A, the second light emitting element 20B, and the third light emitting element 20C passes through the lower end position of the central portion of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the first opening 40Aa, the second opening 40Ba, and the third opening 40Ca of the light shielding plate 40.

[0092] The first to third light emitting elements 20A to 20C are connected to an electronic control unit (not shown) and are configured to be turned on and off by the electronic control unit in accordance with the vehicle driving conditions and the like.

[0093] A condenser lens assembly 50 is disposed between the substrate 22 and the light shielding plate 40 .

[0094] The condenser lens assembly 50 is formed integrally via a plate-shaped portion in a state where the first condenser lens 52A, the second condenser lens 52B, and the third condenser lens 52C are arranged in the left-right direction. At this time, the first condenser lens 52A, the second condenser lens 52B, and the third condenser lens 52C are configured to be located on the first reference axis La, the second reference axis Lb, and the third reference axis Lc, respectively.

[0095] The rear surfaces 52Ab and 52Bb of the first condenser lens 52A and the second condenser lens 52B are formed into convex curved surfaces, and the front surfaces 52Aa and 52Ba of the first condenser lens 52A and the second condenser lens 52B are formed into convex curved surfaces with a curvature smaller than that of the rear surfaces 52Ab and 52Bb. On the other hand, the rear surface 52Cb of the third condenser lens 52C is also formed into a convex curved surface, but the front surface 52Ca thereof is formed into a plane. The plane constituting the front surface 52Ca has a wedge-shaped vertical cross-sectional shape, and the wedge-shaped vertical cross-sectional shape has a portion protruding from the upper end edge toward the lower end edge toward the front of the lamp.

[0096] Thus, the emitted light from the first light emitting element 20A and the second light emitting element 20B corresponding to the first condensing lens 52A and the second condensing lens 52B, respectively, is incident on the first opening 40Aa and the second opening 40Ba of the light shielding plate 40 as light parallel to the first reference axis La and the second reference axis Lb. In addition, the emitted light from the third light emitting element 20C corresponding to the third condensing lens 52C is incident on the third opening 40Ca of the light shielding plate 40 as light diagonally downward and diffused in the left-right direction with respect to the third reference axis Lc.

[0097] The condenser lens assembly 50 is configured to have a pair of mounting flanges 54 formed on the left and right sides of the plate-shaped portion around the first condenser lens 52A to the third condenser lens 52C. The pair of mounting flanges 54 have an L-shaped horizontal cross-sectional shape, and the front end faces thereof abut against the left and right ends of the light shielding plate 40 from the rear side of the lamp, thereby positioning the first condenser lens 52A to the third condenser lens 52C on the first reference axis La to the third reference axis Lc.

[0098] The heat sink 60 comprises: a main body 62 extending along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the lamp; a plurality of heat sinks 64 extending from the main body 62 along a vertical plane toward the rear of the lamp; and a pair of mounting flanges 66 formed on the left and right sides of the main body 62.

[0099] The substrate 22 is positioned and supported by being fastened with screws 72 at two locations on the diagonal line of the substrate 22 in a state of surface contact with the main body 62 of the heat sink 60 .

[0100] The projection lens 30, the shading plate 40, and the condenser lens assembly 50 are fastened with screws 74 at two locations on the diagonal line of the radiator 60 to be positioned and supported. The screw fastening is performed by fastening the left and right mounting flanges 36 of the projection lens 30, the left and right ends of the shading plate 40, and the left and right mounting flanges 54 of the condenser lens assembly 50 together with the left and right mounting flanges 66 of the radiator 60 in a state where the left and right mounting flanges 36 of the projection lens 30, the left and right ends of the shading plate 40, and the left and right mounting flanges 54 of the condenser lens assembly 50 overlap with the left and right mounting flanges 66 of the radiator 60. In addition, positioning pins 36a are formed on the left and right mounting flanges 36 of the projection lens 30, respectively. On the other hand, pin insertion holes 40a, 54a, 66a for inserting the positioning pins 36a are formed on the left and right ends of the shading plate 40, the left and right mounting flanges 54 of the condenser lens assembly 50, and the left and right mounting flanges 66 of the radiator 60, respectively.

[0101] Next, Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The depicted light distribution pattern PA is described below.

[0102] As described above, the image drawing light distribution pattern PA is formed by the irradiation light from the image drawing lamp 10. Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 As shown, the image drawing light distribution pattern PA is composed of three image drawing light distribution patterns PAa, PAb, and PAc.

[0103] The three image-drawing light distribution patterns PAa, PAb, and PAc are all inverted V-shaped (ie, a shape that tapers toward the front of the lamp), and are formed in substantially the same size and arranged in a row at substantially equal intervals.

[0104] The drawing light distribution pattern PAa formed in the long-distance region of the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle is a light distribution pattern formed by irradiating the light emitted from the first light emitting element 20A toward the front of the lamp via the first projection lens unit 32A.

[0105] The image drawing light distribution pattern PAa is formed as a reverse projection image of the first opening portion 40Aa having a V-shaped opening shape formed in the light shielding plate 40 .

[0106] In the first opening 40Aa, the lower end position of the central portion of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the first opening 40Aa is located below the optical axis Axa of the first projection lens unit 32A. Therefore, the light passing through the first opening 40Aa is irradiated toward the front of the lamp as light directed upward from the optical axis Axa. Thus, the light distribution pattern PAa for drawing is formed in the long-distance area.

[0107] In addition, the emitted light from the first light emitting element 20A is efficiently incident on the first opening 40Aa through the biconvex lens-shaped first condenser lens 52A. Therefore, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAa for drawing is fully ensured. Moreover, the first light emitting element 20A and the first condenser lens 52A are arranged on the first reference axis La passing through the lower end position of the central part of the inner peripheral edge on the upper side of the first opening 40Aa. Therefore, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAa for drawing is fully ensured.

[0108] The drawing light distribution pattern PAb formed in the short-distance region of the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle is a light distribution pattern formed by irradiating the light emitted from the second light emitting element 20B toward the front of the lamp via the second projection lens unit 32B.

[0109] The image drawing light distribution pattern PAb is formed as a reverse projection image of the second opening 40Ba having a V-shaped opening shape formed in the light shielding plate 40 .

[0110] At this time, in the second opening 40Ba, the lower end position of the central portion of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the second opening 40Ba is located on the optical axis Axb of the second projection lens unit 32B. Therefore, the light passing through the second opening 40Ba is irradiated toward the front of the lamp as light substantially parallel to the optical axis Axb. Thus, the light distribution pattern PAb for drawing is formed in the short distance area.

[0111] In addition, the emitted light from the second light emitting element 20B is efficiently incident on the second opening 40Ba through the second convex lens-shaped condenser lens 52B. Therefore, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAb for drawing is fully ensured. Moreover, the second light emitting element 20B and the second condenser lens 52B are arranged on the second reference axis Lb at the lower end position of the central part of the inner peripheral edge on the upper side of the second opening 40Ba. Therefore, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAb for drawing is fully ensured.

[0112] The drawing light distribution pattern PAc formed in the extremely close distance region of the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle is a light distribution pattern formed by irradiating the light emitted from the third light emitting element 20C toward the front of the lamp via the third projection lens unit 32C.

[0113] The drawing light distribution pattern PAc is formed as a reverse projection image of the third opening 40Ca having a V-shaped opening shape formed in the light shielding plate 40. However, since the third opening 40Ca is located in front of the lamp relative to the rear focus Fc of the third projection lens unit 32C, its reverse projection image is slightly unclear.

[0114] At this time, in the third opening 40Ca, the central lower end position of the upper inner peripheral edge of the third opening 40Ca is located above the optical axis Axc of the third projection lens unit 32C, so that the light is irradiated toward the front of the lamp as light directed downward from the optical axis Axc of the third projection lens unit 32C. Therefore, the drawing light distribution pattern PAc is formed in the extremely close distance area.

[0115] The upward displacement amount Dc of the lower end position of the central portion of the inner circumference on the upper side of the third opening 40Ca from the optical axis Axc is a value greater than the downward displacement amount Da of the lower end position of the central portion of the inner circumference on the upper side of the first opening 40Aa from the optical axis Axa. Therefore, although the irradiation angles of the emitted light from the first projection lens unit 32A to the third projection lens unit 32C with respect to the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle are different, the interval between the light distribution pattern PAb for drawing and the light distribution pattern PAc for drawing and the interval between the light distribution pattern PAa for drawing and the light distribution pattern PAb for drawing are substantially the same.

[0116] In addition, the emitted light from the third light emitting element 20C is efficiently incident on the third opening 40Ca through the third condenser lens 52C. Therefore, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAc for depiction is fully ensured. Moreover, the third light emitting element 20C and the third condenser lens 52C are arranged on the third reference axis Lc at the lower end position of the central part of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the third opening 40Ca. Therefore, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAc for depiction is fully ensured. The rear surface 52Cb of the third condenser lens 52C is formed into a convex surface. The front surface 52Ca of the third condenser lens 52C is formed into a plane, and the third condenser lens 52C has a wedge-shaped vertical cross-sectional shape, and the wedge-shaped vertical cross-sectional shape has a portion protruding from the upper edge toward the lower edge toward the front of the lamp. Therefore, the emitted light from the third condenser lens 52C is incident on the third opening 40Ca as a substantially parallel light that is slightly expanded in the left-right direction and downward in the up-down direction. Therefore, the light emitted from the third light emitting element 20C is efficiently incident on the third opening 40Ca having a relatively large opening shape.

[0117] The upper and lower widths of the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca increase in sequence. In addition, the inner peripheral edges of the left and right sides of the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca extend upward in a direction slightly expanded relative to the vertical direction. In addition, the left and right widths also increase slightly in the order of the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca. Thus, the three light distribution patterns PAa to PAc for depiction are formed with approximately the same size.

[0118] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0119] The lamp 10 for drawing involved in this embodiment is configured so that the emitted light from the first light emitting element 20A and the second light emitting element 20B is irradiated toward the front of the lamp via the projection lens 30, thereby forming the light distribution patterns PAa and PAb for drawing. The projection lens 30 is arranged in a state where the first projection lens part 32A for long-distance drawing and the second projection lens part 32B for close-distance drawing are arranged in the left-right direction (the required direction intersecting the front-back direction of the lamp). Moreover, on the light shielding plate 40 arranged between the first light emitting element 20A and the second light emitting element 20B and the projection lens 30, a first opening part 40Aa and a second opening part 40Ba are formed at the rear side of the lamp of the first projection lens part 32A and the second projection lens part 32B. In addition, the first light emitting element 20A and the second light emitting element 20B are arranged at the rear side of the lamp of the first opening part 40Aa and the second opening part 40Ba. Therefore, the light distribution pattern PAa for drawing can be formed in the long-distance area, and the light distribution pattern PAb for drawing can be formed in the close-distance area.

[0120] At this time, the first projection lens section 32A and the second projection lens section 32B are integrally formed with their respective lens effective surfaces being adjacent to each other. Thus, the image drawing light distribution patterns PAa and PAb can be formed without increasing the size of the lamp.

[0121] As described above, according to the present embodiment, in the image drawing lamp 10 configured to form the image drawing light distribution patterns PAa and PAb, it is possible to form the image drawing light distribution patterns PAa and PAb without increasing the size of the lamp.

[0122] Furthermore, as in the present embodiment, the lens effective surfaces of the first projection lens section 32A and the second projection lens section 32B are integrally formed in a state of being adjacent to each other. Therefore, the projection lens 30 looks like a single lens, and thus the design of the projection lens 30 can be improved.

[0123] In addition, in the projection lens 30 of the present embodiment, the first projection lens portion 32A is formed with a larger size than the second projection lens portion 32B. Therefore, the light distribution pattern PAa formed in the long-distance area is formed with substantially the same clarity and brightness as the light distribution pattern PAb formed in the short-distance area. Thus, the function of alerting the surroundings brought about by forming the light distribution patterns PAa and PAb can be enhanced.

[0124] Furthermore, the projection lens 30 of the present embodiment includes a third projection lens unit 32C for close-up drawing. The third projection lens unit 32C is formed integrally with the second projection lens unit 32B in a state where lens effective surfaces are adjacent to each other. A third opening 40c is formed at a portion of the light shielding plate 40 on the rear side of the lamp of the third projection lens unit 32C. A third light emitting element 20C is arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the third opening 40c.

[0125] That is, compared with the two depiction light distribution patterns PAa and PAb formed in the long-distance area and the short-distance area, the depiction light distribution pattern PAc can be formed in the very short-distance area which is the area closer to the lamp. Therefore, it is possible to form a depiction light distribution pattern PA in which the three depiction light distribution patterns PAa, PAb, and Pac are arranged in a row. In this way, the function of reminding the surroundings to be aware of the surroundings can be further improved.

[0126] Furthermore, the first to third projection lens units 32A to 32C are integrally formed with their lens effective surfaces adjacent to each other, thereby maintaining the projection lens 30 as a single lens.

[0127] In addition, in the drawing lamp 10 according to the present embodiment, first to third condenser lenses 52A to 52C are arranged between the first to third light emitting elements 20A to 20C and the light shielding plate 40 to allow the emitted light from the first to third light emitting elements 20A to 20C to enter the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca of the light shielding plate 40. Therefore, the emitted light from the first to third light emitting elements 20A to 20C is efficiently incident on the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca. As a result, it is easy to form the three drawing light distribution patterns PAa to PAc into bright light distribution patterns.

[0128] In the present embodiment, the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca are formed into a V-shaped opening shape. However, the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca may be formed into an opening shape other than this. For example, the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca may be formed into an opening shape such as a downward arrow, an inverted trapezoid, etc.

[0129] In the present embodiment, the emitted light from the first light emitting element 20A to the third light emitting element 20C enters the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca via the first condenser lens 52A to the third condenser lens 52C. However, the emitted light from the first light emitting element 20A to the third light emitting element 20C may directly enter the first opening 40Aa to the third opening 40Ca.

[0130] In the present embodiment, the optical axes Axa to Axc of the first to third projection lens portions 32A to 32C extend at the same height position along the front-rear direction of the lamp. However, the first to third projection lens portions 32A to 32C may also be configured in other ways. For example, the optical axis Axa of the first projection lens portion 32A may extend upwards than the optical axis Axb of the second projection lens portion 32B, and the optical axis Axc of the third projection lens portion 32C may extend downwards than the optical axis Axb of the second projection lens portion 32B.

[0131] In the present embodiment, the case where the light emitting color of the first to third light emitting elements 20A to 20C is white is described, but other light emitting colors (for example, amber, red, etc.) may be used.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the drawing lamp 10 is mounted on the end portion in the vehicle width direction of the front end portion of the vehicle 100 , but may be mounted on the rear end portion, the side portion, or the like of the vehicle 100 .

[0133] In the present embodiment, the image drawing light distribution pattern PA is formed on the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle by the irradiation light from the image drawing lamp 10. However, the image drawing light distribution pattern PA may be formed on a wall surface arranged in front of the lamp or a wall surface extending forward of the lamp.

[0134] Next, a modification of the first embodiment will be described.

[0135] First, a first modification example of the first embodiment will be described.

[0136] Fig.10 It is a plan view showing a drawing lamp 110 according to a first modified example of the first embodiment.

[0137] The basic structure of this modification example is the same as that of the first embodiment, but the number of first light emitting elements 20A and the structure of the condenser lens assembly 150 are partially different from those of the first embodiment.

[0138] In the drawing lamp 110 according to the present modification, the structure of the first condenser lens 152A in the condenser lens assembly 150 is different from that in the first embodiment.

[0139] Specifically, the first condenser lens 152A includes a convex curved surface portion 152Ab1 located on the first reference axis La at a rear surface 152Ab of the first condenser lens 152A, and a pair of convex curved surface portions 152Ab2 located on the left and right sides of the convex curved surface portion 152Ab1 .

[0140] In addition, in this modification, three light emitting elements are arranged as the first light emitting elements 20A.

[0141] The three first light emitting elements 20A are arranged behind the lamp on the convex curved surface portion 152Ab1 and behind the lamp on the pair of left and right convex curved surface portions 152Ab2 (ie, on the first reference axis La and on its left and right sides).

[0142] In addition, the structure of the front surface 152Aa of the first condenser lens 152A is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0143] The emitted light from the first light emitting element 20A located in the center is incident on the first condensing lens 152A mainly from the convex curved surface 152Ab1, then emitted from the front surface 152Aa of the first condensing lens 152A and reaches the first opening 40Aa of the light shielding plate 40. In addition, the emitted light from the left and right pair of first light emitting elements 20A located on the left and right sides is incident on the first condensing lens 152A mainly from the left and right pair of convex curved surface 152Ab2, then emitted from the front surface 152Aa of the first condensing lens 152A and reaches the first opening 40Aa of the light shielding plate 40.

[0144] It is not easy to ensure sufficient brightness of the image drawing light distribution pattern PAa formed in the long-distance region. However, by forming the image drawing light distribution pattern PAa using the emitted light from the three first light emitting elements 20A as in this modification, the brightness of the image drawing light distribution pattern PAa can be ensured sufficiently.

[0145] Moreover, in the first condenser lens 152A disposed between the three first light emitting elements 20A and the light shielding plate 40, the rear surface 152Ab of the first condenser lens 152A is composed of a convex curved surface portion 152Ab1 and a pair of left and right convex curved surface portions 152Ab2. The first light emitting element 20A is disposed on the rear side of the lamp of each of the convex curved surface portion 152Ab1 and the pair of left and right convex curved surface portions 152Ab2. Therefore, the emitted light from the three first light emitting elements 20A is efficiently incident on the first opening portion 40Aa of the light shielding plate 40. Thus, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAa for drawing can be further increased.

[0146] Next, a second modification of the first embodiment will be described.

[0147] Fig.11 It is a plan view showing a drawing lamp 210 according to a second modified example of the first embodiment.

[0148] The basic structure of this modification is the same as that of the first embodiment, but the structure of the projection lens 230 is different from that of the first embodiment. Accordingly, the arrangement of the first light emitting element 20A to the third light emitting element 20C and the structures of the substrate 222, the light shielding plate 240, the focusing lens assembly 250 and the heat sink 260 are different from those of the first embodiment.

[0149] That is, the projection lens 230 of this modification also includes the first projection lens unit 232A, the second projection lens unit 232B, and the third projection lens unit 232C. However, the configuration and outer shape of the first projection lens unit 232A, the second projection lens unit 232B, and the third projection lens unit 232C are different from those of the first embodiment.

[0150] Specifically, in the projection lens 230 of this modified example, the first projection lens unit 232A is formed with a size larger than that of the second projection lens unit 232B and the third projection lens unit 232C. The second projection lens unit 232B and the third projection lens unit 232C are arranged in a state adjacent to each other in the left-right direction. The first projection lens unit 232A is arranged in a state adjacent to the second projection lens unit 232B and the third projection lens unit 232C on the lower side.

[0151] The first projection lens unit 232A is formed into a horizontally long rectangular shape when the lamp is observed from the front. On the other hand, the second projection lens unit 232B and the third projection lens unit 232C are both formed into a rectangular shape close to a square when the lamp is observed from the front. At this time, the upper and lower widths of the first projection lens unit 232A are substantially the same as the upper and lower widths of the second projection lens unit 232B and the third projection lens unit 232C. In addition, the left and right widths of the first projection lens unit 232A are substantially the same as the left and right widths of the second projection lens unit 232B and the third projection lens unit 232C combined.

[0152] In this way, the projection lens 230 of the present modification example is integrally formed in a state where the second projection lens section 232B and the third projection lens section 232C are arranged in two layers above and below the first projection lens section 232A and the lens effective surfaces are adjacent to each other.

[0153] In the projection lens 230 of this modification, the first projection lens unit 232A to the third projection lens unit 232C are all formed in a plano-convex lens shape. The curvatures of the front surfaces 232Aa, 232Ba, and 232Ca are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0154] The first to third light emitting elements 20A to 20C are arranged on the first to third reference axes La to Lc. The positional relationship between the first to third reference axes La to Lc and the optical axes Axa to Axc of the first to third projection lens units 232A to 232C is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0155] The light shielding plate 240 of this modification also has a first opening 240Aa, a second opening 240Ba, and a third opening 240Ca of the same shape as those of the first embodiment. The positional relationship of the first opening 240Aa to the third opening 240Ca with respect to the optical axes Axa to Axc of the first projection lens unit 232A to the third projection lens unit 232C is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0156] In addition, the condenser lens assembly 250 of this modified example also has a first condenser lens 252A, a second condenser lens 252B, and a third condenser lens 252C of the same shape as in the above embodiment. The first condenser lens 252A to the third condenser lens 252C are the same as in the first embodiment and are formed on the first reference axis La to the third reference axis Lc, respectively.

[0157] In the present modification, the projection lens 230 , the light shielding plate 240 , and the condenser lens assembly 250 are positioned and supported with respect to the heat sink 260 at both upper and lower sides of the first to third projection lens units 232A to 232C.

[0158] Even when the configuration of this modified example is adopted, the same operational effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0159] Furthermore, by adopting the structure of this modified example, the image drawing lamp 210 is configured as a lamp having a small left-right width.

[0160] The image drawing lamp according to the first embodiment and its modified example may be a lamp for vehicle mounting or a lamp for use other than vehicle mounting.

[0161] The projection lens can be formed integrally with a first projection lens portion for long-distance rendering and a second projection lens portion for close-range rendering arranged in a desired direction intersecting the front-to-back direction of the lamp and with the lens effective surfaces adjacent to each other. The specific shapes and sizes of the first projection lens portion and the second projection lens portion are not particularly limited.

[0162] The specific direction of the “required direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp” is not particularly limited, and for example, the left-right direction or the up-down direction may be adopted.

[0163] “The state in which the lens effective surfaces are adjacent to each other” means the state in which the lens effective surface of the first projection lens unit and the lens effective surface of the second projection lens unit appear to be connected when the lamp is observed from the front, and in the front-to-back direction of the lamp, the lens effective surface of the first projection lens unit and the lens effective surface of the second projection lens unit can be displaced relative to each other.

[0164] In the "first projection lens unit for long-distance drawing" and the "second projection lens unit for close-distance drawing", as long as the drawing light distribution pattern formed by the second projection lens unit is located in the close-distance area compared with the drawing light distribution pattern formed by the irradiation light from the first projection lens unit, their respective specific drawing positions are not particularly limited.

[0165] The “light shielding plate” may be configured to shield a part of the light from the light emitting element toward the projection lens between the light emitting element and the projection lens, and its specific arrangement is not particularly limited.

[0166] The specific opening shape of each of the "first opening and the second opening" is not particularly limited.

[0167] The “first light emitting element and the second light emitting element” may be arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the first opening and the second opening, and their specific arrangement is not particularly limited.

[0168] (Second Embodiment)

[0169] Fig.12 2 is a front view showing a drawing lamp 310 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig.13 It is a plan view showing a drawing lamp 310 according to the second embodiment. Fig.14 3 is a side view showing a drawing lamp 310 according to the second embodiment. Fig.15 It is an exploded perspective view showing main components of an image drawing lamp 310 according to the second embodiment.

[0170] Before describing the specific structure of the image drawing lamp 310 according to the present embodiment, an overview thereof will be described.

[0171] Fig.18 This is a side view showing a state where the image drawing lamp 310 is mounted on the vehicle 400 . Fig.19 4 is a top view showing a state where the drawing lamp 310 is mounted on the vehicle 400. Fig.19 The drawing lamp 310 on the left is shown in a lit state.

[0172] like Fig.18 as well as Fig.19As shown, the depiction lamp 310 is configured to irradiate light obliquely downward toward the outside in the vehicle width direction when mounted on the vehicle width direction side end of the front end of the vehicle 400. At this time, the depiction lamp 310 is lit synchronously with the lighting of the front turn signal lamp (not shown), thereby forming a depiction light distribution pattern PA on the road surface 302 in front of the vehicle.

[0173] like Fig.18 as well as Fig.19 As shown in FIG. 4 , when the drawing lamp 310 is mounted on the vehicle 400, the front face of the lamp is configured to face a direction inclined downward with respect to the front-rear direction of the vehicle. Figure 12 to Figure 15 As shown, when the image drawing lamp 310 is a single product, the front surface of the lamp is configured to face the horizontal direction.

[0174] Next, the specific structure of the image drawing lamp 310 will be described.

[0175] Fig.16 yes Fig.12 Cross-sectional view taken along line XVI-XVI of FIG. Fig.17 yes Fig.12 Cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII.

[0176] like Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, the image drawing lamp 310 is configured to irradiate light emitted from the light emitting element toward the front of the lamp via a projection lens 330. The image drawing lamp 310 includes a first light emitting element 320A and a second light emitting element 320B as light emitting elements.

[0177] The projection lens 330 is configured such that a first projection lens unit 332A and a second projection lens unit 332B are integrally formed in a state of being aligned in the left-right direction. The first projection lens unit 332A and the second projection lens unit 332B are formed so that their respective optical axes Axa2 and Axb2 extend in the front-rear direction of the lamp at the same height position.

[0178] The first projection lens unit 332A located on the right side (left side when the lamp is viewed from the front) is a projection lens unit for long-distance imaging, and the second projection lens unit 332B located on the left side is a projection lens unit for short-distance imaging.

[0179] In the first projection lens section 332A and the second projection lens section 332B, the respective front surfaces 332Aa and 332Ba are plano-convex lenses composed of convex curved surfaces, and have a rectangular outer shape when the lamp is viewed from the front. The first projection lens section 332A and the second projection lens section 332B are integrally formed in a state where the respective lens effective surfaces (i.e., the front surfaces 332Aa and 332Ba that perform lens functions) are adjacent to each other.

[0180] Specifically, the first projection lens portion 332A and the second projection lens portion 332B are formed with the same upper and lower widths. However, the left and right widths of the first projection lens portion 332A are larger than the left and right widths of the second projection lens portion 332B. That is, the first projection lens portion 332A is formed to have a substantially square outer shape when viewed from the front of the lamp. The second projection lens portion 332B is formed to have a longitudinally long rectangular outer shape when viewed from the front of the lamp.

[0181] The second projection lens unit 332B is arranged at a position displaced toward the rear side of the lamp relative to the first projection lens unit 332A. At this time, the rear focal points Fa2 and Fb2 of the first projection lens unit 332A and the second projection lens unit 332B are set at the same position in the front-rear direction of the lamp. That is, the focal length of the first projection lens unit 332A is a value larger than the focal length of the second projection lens unit 332B.

[0182] The first projection lens portion 332A and the second projection lens portion 332B are surrounded by a peripheral flange portion 334 formed in a stepped manner along the rear surfaces of each. A pair of mounting flange portions 336 are formed on the left and right sides of the peripheral flange portion 334. The left and right pair of mounting flange portions 336 are formed so that the lengths in the front-to-back direction of the lamp are different and they are L-shaped in a horizontal cross section. The rear end surfaces of the left and right pair of mounting flange portions 336 are respectively formed so as to be located on the same plane orthogonal to the front-to-back direction of the lamp.

[0183] The first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B are both white light emitting diodes, and have a rectangular (specifically, square) light emitting surface 320a.

[0184] The first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B are mounted on a common substrate 322 arranged behind the first projection lens portion 332A and the second projection lens portion 332B. The substrate 322 is supported by the heat sink 360 so as to extend along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the lamp.

[0185] A light shielding plate 340 is disposed between the first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B and the first projection lens unit 332A and the second projection lens unit 332B. The light shielding plate 340 is used to shield a portion of the light from the first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B toward the first projection lens unit 332A and the second projection lens unit 332B. The light shielding plate 340 is composed of a thin plate extending along a plane orthogonal to the front-rear direction of the lamp.

[0186] The shading plate 340 is positioned at both left and right ends to abut against the left and right mounting flanges 336 of the projection lens 330 from the rear side of the lamp. Thus, the shading plate 340 is arranged along a vertical plane including the rear focal points Fa2 and Fb2 of the first projection lens unit 332A and the second projection lens unit 332B.

[0187] The light shielding plate 340 has a first opening 340Aa formed at a portion of the first projection lens unit 332A on the lamp rear side. The light shielding plate 340 has two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc formed at a portion of the second projection lens unit 332B on the lamp rear side.

[0188] The first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc are all formed into a V-shaped opening shape when the lamp is viewed from the front. At this time, the opening angle of the V-shape is about 90° to 150° (for example, about 120°).

[0189] Of the first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc, the second opening 340Bb is located above the first opening 340Aa, and the second opening 340Bc is located above the second opening 340Bb.

[0190] Specifically, the first opening 340Aa is formed so that the lower end position of the central portion of the inner circumference on the upper side of the first opening 340Aa is located below the optical axis Axa2 of the first projection lens unit 332A. The second opening 340Bb is formed so that the lower end position of the central portion of the inner circumference on the upper side of the second opening 340Bb is located on the optical axis Axb2 of the second projection lens unit 332B. The second opening 340Bc is formed so that the lower end position of the central portion of the inner circumference on the upper side of the second opening 340Bc is located above the optical axis Axb2 of the second projection lens unit 332B. At this time, the upper displacement amount Db2 of the lower end position of the central portion of the inner circumference on the upper side of the second opening 340Bc from the optical axis Axb2 is greater than the lower displacement amount Da2 of the central lower end position of the upper inner circumference of the first opening 340Aa from the optical axis Axa2.

[0191] In addition, among the first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc, the second opening 340Bb is formed with a larger vertical width than the first opening 340Aa. The second opening 340Bc is formed with a larger vertical width than the second opening 340Bb.

[0192] Furthermore, the first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc are configured such that the inner peripheral edges on both sides extend upward in a direction slightly expanding relative to the vertical direction. The second opening 340Bb is formed to have a slightly larger left-right width than the first opening 340Aa. The second opening 340Bc is formed to have a slightly larger left-right width than the second opening 340Bb.

[0193] The first light emitting element 320A is arranged below the optical axis Axa2 of the first projection lens unit 332A. The second light emitting element 320B is arranged above the optical axis Axb2 of the second projection lens unit 332B.

[0194] Specifically, the first light emitting element 320A is configured so that the light emission center is located on the first reference axis La2 extending in the front-to-back direction of the lamp at the lower side of the optical axis Axa2. The second light emitting element 320B is configured so that the light emission center is located on the second reference axis Lb2 extending in the front-to-back direction of the lamp at the upper side of the optical axis Axb2. At this time, the first reference axis La2 is located at the lower end position of the central part of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the first opening 340Aa of the light shielding plate 340. In addition, the second reference axis Lb2 is located at a position where the displacement amount above the optical axis Axb2 is the same as the displacement amount below the first reference axis La2 from the optical axis Axa2.

[0195] The first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B are connected to an electronic control unit (not shown), and lighting and extinguishing are controlled by the electronic control unit according to the vehicle driving conditions and the like.

[0196] A condenser lens assembly 350 is disposed between the substrate 322 and the light shielding plate 340 .

[0197] The condenser lens assembly 350 is integrally formed via a plate-shaped portion in a state where the first condenser lens 352A and the second condenser lens 352B are arranged in the left-right direction. The first condenser lens 352A and the second condenser lens 352B are arranged so as to be located on the first reference axis La2 and the second reference axis Lb2.

[0198] In the first condenser lens 352A and the second condenser lens 352B, the respective rear surfaces 352Ab and 352Bb are formed into convex curved surfaces. The front surfaces 352Aa and 352Ba are formed into convex curved surfaces with a curvature smaller than that of the rear surfaces 352Ab and 352Bb.

[0199] Thus, the first condenser lens 352A is configured to allow the emitted light from the first light emitting element 320A to enter the first opening 340Aa of the light shielding plate 340 as light parallel to the first reference axis La2. In addition, the second condenser lens 352B is configured to allow the emitted light from the second condenser lens 352B to enter the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc of the light shielding plate 340 as light parallel to the second reference axis Lb2c.

[0200] In the condenser lens assembly 350, a pair of mounting flanges 354 are formed on the left and right sides of the plate-shaped portion around the first condenser lens 352A and the second condenser lens 352B. The left and right pair of mounting flanges 354 are formed in an L-shaped shape in a horizontal cross section. The front end surfaces of the left and right pair of mounting flanges 354 abut against the left and right ends of the light shielding plate 340 from the rear side of the lamp. Thus, the first condenser lens 352A and the second condenser lens 352B are positioned on the first reference axis La2 and the second reference axis Lb2.

[0201] The heat sink 360 includes: a main body 362 extending along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the lamp; a plurality of heat sinks 364 extending along a vertical plane from the main body 362 toward the rear of the lamp; and a pair of mounting flanges 366 formed on the left and right sides of the main body 362.

[0202] The base plate 322 is positioned and supported by being fastened with screws 372 at two locations on the diagonal line thereof in a state of surface contact with the main body portion 362 of the heat sink 360 .

[0203] In addition, the projection lens 330, the light shielding plate 340, and the condenser lens assembly 350 are fastened with screws 374 at two locations on the diagonal line of the projection lens 330 and are positioned and supported. The screw fastening is performed by fastening the left and right mounting flanges 336 of the projection lens 330, the left and right ends of the light shielding plate 340, and the left and right mounting flanges 354 of the condenser lens assembly 350 together with the left and right mounting flanges 366 of the radiator 360 in a state where they overlap. In addition, positioning pins 336a are formed on the left and right mounting flanges 336 of the projection lens 330, respectively. Pin insertion holes 340a, 354a, and 366a for inserting the positioning pins 336a are formed on the left and right ends of the light shielding plate 340, the left and right mounting flanges 354 of the condenser lens assembly 350, and the left and right mounting flanges 366 of the radiator 360, respectively.

[0204] Next, Fig.18 and Fig.19 The depicted light distribution pattern PA2 will be described.

[0205] As described above, the image drawing light distribution pattern PA2 is formed by the irradiation light from the image drawing lamp 310. Fig.18 as well as Fig.19 As shown, the image drawing light distribution pattern PA2 is composed of three image drawing light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2.

[0206] The three depicting light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2 are all inverted V-shaped (i.e., a shape that tapers toward the front of the lamp). The three depicting light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2 are arranged in a row of approximately the same size and are formed at approximately equal intervals. The three depicting light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2 are formed in the long-distance area, the short-distance area, and the very short-distance area of ​​the road surface 302 in front of the vehicle, respectively.

[0207] The image drawing light distribution pattern PAa2 formed in the long-distance region is a light distribution pattern formed by irradiating the light emitted from the first light emitting element 320A toward the front of the lamp via the first projection lens unit 332A.

[0208] The image drawing light distribution pattern PAa2 is formed as an inverted projection image of light emitted from the first light emitting element 320A and passing through the first opening 340Aa formed in the light shielding plate 340 in a V-shaped opening shape.

[0209] At this time, the first opening 340Aa is formed so that the central lower end position of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the first opening 340Aa is located below the optical axis Axa2 of the first projection lens unit 332A. Therefore, the light passing through the first opening 340Aa is irradiated toward the front of the lamp as light directed upward from the optical axis Axa2. Thus, the light distribution pattern PAa2 for drawing is formed in the long-distance area.

[0210] In addition, the emitted light from the first light emitting element 320A is efficiently incident on the first opening 340Aa through the biconvex lens-shaped first condenser lens 352A. Thus, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAa2 for drawing is fully ensured. Moreover, since the first light emitting element 320A and the first condenser lens 352A are arranged on the first reference axis La2, the brightness of the light distribution pattern PAa2 for drawing is fully ensured.

[0211] The image drawing light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2 formed in the short distance region and the very short distance region are light distribution patterns formed by irradiating the light emitted from the second light emitting element 320B toward the front of the lamp via the second projection lens unit 332B.

[0212] The image drawing light distribution pattern PAb2 is formed as an inverted projection image of light that has passed through the second opening 340Bb formed in a V-shaped opening shape formed in the light shielding plate 340 .

[0213] At this time, the second opening 340Bb is formed so that the lower end position of the central part of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the second opening 340Bb is located on the optical axis Axb2 of the second projection lens unit 332B. Therefore, the light substantially parallel to the optical axis Axb2 is irradiated toward the front of the lamp. Thus, the light distribution pattern PAb2 for drawing is formed in the short distance area.

[0214] The image drawing light distribution pattern PAc2 is formed as an inverted projection image of light that has passed through the second opening 340Bc formed in a V-shaped opening shape formed in the light shielding plate 340 .

[0215] At this time, the second opening 340Bc is formed so that the lower end position of the central portion of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the second opening 340Bc is located above the optical axis Axb2 of the second projection lens unit 332B. Therefore, the light passing through the second opening 340Bc is irradiated toward the front of the lamp as light directed downward from the optical axis Axb2. Therefore, the light distribution pattern PAc2 for drawing is formed in the extremely close distance area.

[0216] Furthermore, the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B is efficiently incident on the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc through the second lenticular lens 352B, thereby sufficiently ensuring the brightness of the two drawing light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2.

[0217] Moreover, the upper displacement amount Db2 of the lower end position of the central portion of the inner circumference on the upper side of the second opening portion 340Bc from the optical axis Axb2 is greater than the lower displacement amount Da2 of the lower end position of the central portion of the inner circumference on the upper side of the first opening portion 340Aa from the optical axis Axa2. Although the irradiation angles of the emitted light from the first projection lens portion 332A and the second projection lens portion 332B with respect to the road surface 302 in front of the vehicle are different, the interval between the light distribution pattern PAb2 for drawing and the light distribution pattern PAc2 for drawing is substantially the same as the interval between the light distribution pattern PAa2 for drawing and the light distribution pattern PAb2 for drawing.

[0218] The vertical widths of the first opening 340Aa, the second opening 340Bb, and the second opening 340Bc are increased in sequence. In addition, the inner peripheral edges of the left and right sides of the first opening 340Aa, the second opening 340Bb, and the second opening 340Bc are extended upward in a direction slightly expanded relative to the vertical direction. Moreover, the left and right widths of the first opening 340Aa, the second opening 340Bb, and the second opening 340Bc are increased in sequence. Thus, the three light distribution patterns PAa2 to PAc2 for depiction are formed with substantially the same size.

[0219] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0220] The lamp 310 for drawing according to the present embodiment is configured to form a light distribution pattern PA2 for drawing by irradiating the emitted light from the first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B toward the front of the lamp via the projection lens 330. The projection lens 330 is arranged in a state where a first projection lens portion 332A for long-distance drawing and a second projection lens portion 332B for short-distance drawing are arranged in a left-right direction (a desired direction intersecting the front-back direction of the lamp). In addition, in the light shielding plate 340 arranged between the first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B and the projection lens 330, a first opening portion 340Aa is formed on the rear side of the lamp of the first projection lens portion 332A. In the light shielding plate 340, two second opening portions 340Bb and 340Bc are formed on the rear side of the lamp of the second projection lens portion 332B. The first light emitting element 320A is arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the first opening portion 340Aa. The second light emitting element 320B is arranged on the rear side of the lamp at the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc.

[0221] The light emitted from the first light emitting element 320A incident on the first projection lens unit 332A can form a light distribution pattern PAa2 for drawing in a long distance region as a reverse projection image of the first opening 340Aa formed in the light shielding plate 340. In addition, the light emitted from the second light emitting element 320B incident on the second projection lens unit 332B can form two light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2 for drawing in a short distance region as reverse projection images of the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc formed in the light shielding plate 340.

[0222] At this time, in order to clearly form the depiction light distribution pattern PAa2 formed in the long-distance area, it is necessary to form a clear reverse projection image through the first opening 340Aa. On the other hand, in order to clearly form the depiction light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2 formed in the short-distance area, it is not necessary to form such clear reverse projection images through the second openings 340Bb and 340Bc.

[0223] As in the present embodiment, two image drawing light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2 are formed in the short distance region by the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B entering the second projection lens unit 332B via the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc formed in the light shielding plate 340. Therefore, the number of projection lens units constituting the projection lens 330 can be suppressed to two.

[0224] This makes it easy to secure a space for arranging the projection lens 330. The image drawing light distribution pattern PA2 composed of the three image drawing light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2 is formed with a desired clarity. This improves the function of alerting the surroundings.

[0225] As described above, according to the present embodiment, in the image drawing lamp 310 configured to form the image drawing light distribution pattern PA2, it is possible to easily secure the arrangement space for the projection lens 330 and to form the image drawing light distribution pattern PA2 having an excellent function of alerting the surroundings.

[0226] Moreover, as in the present embodiment, the first projection lens section 332A and the second projection lens section 332B are integrally formed with their lens effective surfaces adjacent to each other. Therefore, it is possible to further miniaturize the drawing lamp 310. In addition, the projection lens 330 looks like a collection of lenses. Thus, it is possible to improve the design of the drawing lamp 310.

[0227] In addition, the projection lens 330 of the present embodiment is formed with the first projection lens portion 332A being larger than the second projection lens portion 332B. Therefore, the light distribution pattern PAa2 for depiction formed in the long-distance area can be formed with substantially the same clarity and brightness as the two light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2 for depiction formed in the short-distance area. Thus, the function of alerting the surroundings brought about by forming the light distribution pattern PA2 for depiction can be enhanced.

[0228] In addition, two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc are formed on the light shielding plate 340 of the present embodiment in a state of being arranged in the vertical direction. Therefore, it is possible to form the light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2 for depiction at two locations in the near and far distance area. Thus, as the light distribution pattern PA2 for depiction as a whole, it is possible to form the light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2 for depiction in the far distance area, the near distance area, and the very near distance area. In the present embodiment, the light distribution pattern PA for depiction is formed as a light distribution pattern in which three light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2 for depiction are arranged in a row at approximately equal intervals.

[0229] In the present embodiment, the first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc formed in the light shielding plate 340 are all formed into a V-shaped opening shape. However, the first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc may also be formed into other opening shapes. For example, the first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc may also be formed into an opening shape such as a downward arrow or an inverted trapezoid.

[0230] In this embodiment, the emitted light from the first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B is incident on the first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc via the first condenser lens 352A and the second condenser lens 352B. However, the emitted light from the first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B may be directly incident on the first opening 340Aa and the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc.

[0231] In the present embodiment, the first projection lens section 332A and the second projection lens section 332B are formed so that the optical axes Axa2 and Axb2 extend at the same height position along the front-back direction of the lamp. However, the first projection lens section 332A and the second projection lens section 332B may also be configured in other ways. For example, the first projection lens section 332A and the second projection lens section 332B may also be formed in a way that the optical axis Axa2 of the first projection lens section 332A extends upwards than the optical axis Axb2 of the second projection lens section 332B.

[0232] In this embodiment, the case where the light emitting colors of the first light emitting element 320A and the second light emitting element 320B are white is described, but other light emitting colors (for example, amber, red, etc.) may also be used.

[0233] In the present embodiment, the drawing lamp 310 is mounted on the vehicle width direction side end portion of the front end portion of the vehicle 400 , but may be mounted on the rear end portion, the side portion, or the like of the vehicle 400 .

[0234] In this embodiment, the image drawing light distribution pattern PA2 is formed on the road surface 302 in front of the vehicle by the irradiation light from the image drawing lamp 310. However, the image drawing light distribution pattern PA2 may be formed on a wall disposed in front of the lamp or a wall extending forward of the lamp.

[0235] Next, a modification of the second embodiment will be described.

[0236] First, a first modification example of the second embodiment will be described.

[0237] Fig. 20 It is a cross-sectional view showing a drawing lamp 410 according to a first modified example of the second embodiment. Fig. 20 Indicates Fig.17 The same cross-sectional view of the depicted lamp 410 .

[0238] like Fig. 20 As shown, the basic structure of this modification example is the same as that of the second embodiment, but the number and arrangement of the second light emitting elements 320B are partially different from those of the second embodiment.

[0239] That is, in the present modification, the second light emitting elements 320B are arranged on the rear side of the lamp of each of the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc formed in the light shielding plate 340 .

[0240] Specifically, the second light emitting element 320B arranged on the rear side of the lamp at the second opening 340Bb located at the lower side is arranged on the optical axis Axb2 of the second projection lens unit 332B. The second light emitting element 320B arranged on the rear side of the lamp at the second opening 340Bc located at the upper side is arranged in such a manner that the light emission center is located on the third reference axis Lc2. The third reference axis Lc2 is located at a position passing through the lower end position of the central portion of the inner peripheral edge of the upper side of the second opening 340Bc. In this modification, the two second light emitting elements 320B are arranged to be located on the upper and lower sides thereof relative to the second light emitting element 320B of the second embodiment.

[0241] Thus, in this modification, the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B located at the lower side is efficiently incident on the second opening 340Bb located at the lower side via the second condenser lens 352B, and the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B located at the upper side is efficiently incident on the second opening 340Bc located at the upper side via the second condenser lens 352B.

[0242] By adopting the structure of this modified example, the amount of light incident on the second projection lens unit 332B through the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc is substantially doubled. Therefore, it is easy to ensure that the light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2 for drawing are formed in the close distance area and the very close distance area (see Fig.18 as well as Fig.19 ) brightness.

[0243] Next, a second modification of the second embodiment will be described.

[0244] Fig.21 It is a cross-sectional view showing an image drawing lamp 510 according to a second modified example of the second embodiment. Fig.21 Indicates Fig.17 The same cross-sectional view of the depicted lamp 510 .

[0245] like Fig.21 As shown, the basic structure of this modification is the same as that of the first modification, but is different from the first modification in that a light guide 580 is arranged between the substrate 322 and the light shielding plate 340.

[0246] That is, in this modification, instead of the condenser lens assembly 350 of the first modification, a light guide 580 is disposed between the substrate 322 and the light shielding plate 340. The light guide 580 includes a plate-shaped portion 582 formed to extend along the rear surface of the light shielding plate 340, and light guide portions 584 and 586 formed to protrude from upper and lower portions of the rear surface of the plate-shaped portion 582 toward the rear of the lamp.

[0247] The light guide portion 584 located at the lower side is formed to widen from the second light emitting element 320B located at the lower side toward the second opening portion 340Bb located at the lower side. The light guide portion 584 is formed to be trapezoidal in a vertical cross section. The rear end face of the light guide portion 584 is located near the light emitting surface 320a of the second light emitting element 320B located at the lower side. In addition, the front end edge of the light guide portion 584 is connected to the plate-shaped portion 582 at a position surrounding the second opening portion 340Bb.

[0248] The light guide portion 586 located on the upper side is formed to widen from the second light emitting element 320B located on the upper side toward the second opening portion 340Bc located on the upper side. The light guide portion 586 is formed to be trapezoidal in a vertical cross section. The rear end face of the light guide portion 586 is located near the light emitting surface 320a of the second light emitting element 320B located on the upper side. In addition, the front end edge of the light guide portion 586 is connected to the plate-shaped portion 582 at a position surrounding the second opening portion 340Bc.

[0249] Thus, in this modified example, the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B located at the lower side enters the light guide portion 584 from the rear end face of the light guide portion 584, and then enters the second opening portion 340Bb directly or after being totally reflected by the peripheral wall surface of the light guide portion 584. In addition, the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B located at the upper side enters the light guide portion 586 from the rear end face of the light guide portion 586, and then enters the second opening portion 340Bc directly or after being totally reflected by the peripheral wall surface of the light guide portion 586.

[0250] By adopting the structure of this modification example, the following effects can be obtained.

[0251] That is, the light emitted from the second light emitting element 320B located at the lower side efficiently enters the second opening 340Bb located at the lower side via the light guide 584. In addition, the light emitted from the second light emitting element 320B located at the upper side efficiently enters the second opening 340Bc located at the upper side via the light guide 586.

[0252] Therefore, in this modification, as in the case of the first modification, the amount of light incident on the second projection lens unit 332B via the two second openings 340Bb and 340Bc increases. Fig.18and Fig.19 ) brightness.

[0253] Moreover, in this modification, the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B located at the lower side is not easy to enter the second opening portion 340Bc located at the upper side. In addition, the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B located at the upper side is not easy to enter the second opening portion 340Bb located at the lower side. Therefore, by lighting the second light emitting element 320B located at the lower side and the second light emitting element 320B located at the upper side separately, the drawing light distribution patterns PAb2 and PAc2 are formed separately (refer to Fig.18 and Fig.19 ). Therefore, as the image drawing light distribution pattern PA2, it is possible to select a mode in which three image drawing light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2 are formed simultaneously and a mode in which three image drawing light distribution patterns PAa2, PAb2, and PAc2 are formed separately.

[0254] Next, a third modification example of the second embodiment will be described.

[0255] Fig. 22 It is a cross-sectional view showing an image drawing lamp 610 according to a third modified example of the second embodiment. Fig. 22 So with Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of the drawing lamp 610 is shown by observing the same cross section.

[0256] like Fig. 22 As shown, the basic structure of this modification is the same as that of the second embodiment, but the structures of the projection lens 630 and the light shielding plate 640 are partially different from those of the second embodiment.

[0257] That is, in this modification, the projection lens 630 also has a second projection lens portion 632B formed in the same shape as in the second embodiment. Compared with the second embodiment, the second projection lens portion 632B is arranged at a position displaced toward the rear side of the lamp. Thus, the rear focus Fb2 is located at the rear side of the lamp compared to the shading plate 640.

[0258] In addition, in this modification, two second openings 640Bb and 640Bc of the same shape as those in the second embodiment are also formed on the light shielding plate 640. Compared with the second embodiment, the two second openings 640Bb and 640Bc are arranged at positions displaced downward. At this time, the distance that the second opening 640Bc located on the upper side is displaced downward relative to the second opening 340Bc of the second embodiment is greater than the distance that the second opening 640Bb is displaced downward relative to the second opening 340Bb of the second embodiment.

[0259] Fig.23It is a plan view showing a state where a drawing lamp 610 according to a third modified example of the second embodiment is mounted on a vehicle 400 . Fig.23 So with Fig.19 A top view from the same viewpoint.

[0260] like Fig.23 As shown, in this modification, the image drawing light distribution pattern PB2 composed of three image drawing light distribution patterns PBa2 , PBb2 , and PBc2 is formed by the irradiation light from the image drawing lamp 610 .

[0261] At this time, the light distribution pattern PBa2 for drawing is formed as the same light distribution pattern as the light distribution pattern PAa2 for drawing in the second embodiment. However, the light distribution patterns PBb2 and PBc2 for drawing are formed as light distribution patterns with slightly blurred outlines in a state of being displaced to the far side compared with the light distribution patterns PBb2 and PBc2 for drawing in the second embodiment. Thus, the light distribution pattern PB2 for drawing is formed as one light distribution pattern in a state in which the three light distribution patterns PBa2, PBb2, and PBc2 for drawing slightly overlap each other.

[0262] The reason why the image drawing light distribution pattern PB2 is formed as such a light distribution pattern is as follows.

[0263] That is, after the light emitted from the second light emitting element 320B enters the second condensing lens 352B via the second opening 640Bb located at the lower side, it is emitted from the second condensing lens 352B as light slightly upward compared with the case of the second embodiment. Thus, the light distribution pattern PBb2 for drawing is formed slightly farther than the light distribution pattern PAb2 for drawing in the second embodiment.

[0264] In addition, after the emitted light from the second light emitting element 320B enters the second condensing lens 352B via the second opening 640Bc located on the upper side, it is emitted from the second condensing lens 352B as light directed substantially upward compared to the case of the above-mentioned embodiment. Thus, the image drawing light distribution pattern PBc2 is formed on the far side farther than the image drawing light distribution pattern PAc2 of the second embodiment.

[0265] Furthermore, the image-drawing light distribution patterns PBb2 and PBc2 are formed as inverted projection images of the second openings 640Bb and 640Bc whose outlines are blurred.

[0266] By adopting the configuration of this modification example, the image drawing light distribution pattern PB2 can be formed as one light distribution pattern in a state where the three image drawing light distribution patterns PBa2 , PBb2 , and PBc2 slightly overlap each other.

[0267] The image drawing lamp according to the second embodiment and its modified examples may be a lamp for vehicle mounting or a lamp for use other than vehicle mounting.

[0268] The "projection lens" only needs to be arranged in a state where a first projection lens unit for long-distance rendering and a second projection lens unit for close-distance rendering are arranged in a desired direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp, and the specific shapes of the first projection lens unit and the second projection lens unit are not particularly limited.

[0269] The specific direction of the "required direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp" is not particularly limited, and for example, the left-right direction or the up-down direction may be adopted.

[0270] The specific drawing positions of the “first projection lens unit for long-distance drawing” and the “second projection lens unit for close-distance drawing” are not particularly limited as long as they are configured such that the drawing light distribution pattern formed by the second projection lens unit is located in the close-distance area compared to the drawing light distribution pattern formed by the irradiated light from the first projection lens unit.

[0271] The “light shielding plate” may be configured to shield a portion of light from the light emitting element toward the projection lens between the light emitting element and the projection lens, and its specific arrangement is not particularly limited.

[0272] The “first opening” only needs to be disposed on the rear side of the lamp of the first projection lens unit, and its specific formation position and opening shape are not particularly limited.

[0273] The aforementioned “plurality of second openings” only need to be arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the second projection lens unit, and their specific formation positions and opening shapes are not particularly limited, and the number of second openings is not particularly limited.

[0274] The "first light emitting element" only needs to be arranged on the rear side of the lamp in the first opening, and its specific arrangement and the number of arranged elements are not particularly limited.

[0275] The "second light emitting elements" only need to be arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the plurality of second openings, and their specific arrangement and the number of arranged elements are not particularly limited.

[0276] In addition, the numerical values ​​shown as specifications in the first embodiment and the second embodiment and their modified examples are merely examples, and it is of course possible to set them to different values ​​as appropriate.

[0277] In addition, the present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and their modified examples, and can employ configurations to which various other modifications are added.

[0278] This application appropriately cites the contents disclosed in Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-150307 filed on September 21, 2022 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-150308 filed on September 21, 2022.

Claims

1. A lamp for drawing, characterized in that: The image drawing lamp is configured to irradiate light emitted from the light emitting element toward the front of the lamp via a projection lens, thereby forming an image drawing light distribution pattern. A light shielding plate is arranged between the light emitting element and the projection lens, and the light shielding plate is used to shield a part of the light from the light emitting element toward the projection lens. The projection lens is formed integrally with a first projection lens portion for long-distance rendering and a second projection lens portion for short-distance rendering arranged in a desired direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp and with lens effective surfaces adjacent to each other. A first opening and a second opening are formed in the light shielding plate at the rear side of the first projection lens unit and the second projection lens unit of the lamp. The image drawing lamp includes a first light emitting element and a second light emitting element as the light emitting elements, which are arranged on the lamp rear side of the first opening and the second opening.

2. The drawing lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: The projection lens is formed such that the first projection lens portion is larger than the second projection lens portion.

3. The drawing lamp according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The projection lens includes a third projection lens unit for extremely close-up imaging. The third projection lens unit is formed integrally with at least one of the first projection lens unit and the second projection lens unit in a state where lens effective surfaces are adjacent to each other. A third opening is formed in the shading plate at a portion of the shading plate on the rear side of the lamp of the third projection lens unit. The image drawing lamp includes a third light emitting element disposed on the lamp rear side of the third opening as the light emitting element.

4. The drawing lamp according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A plurality of light emitting elements are arranged as the first light emitting elements.

5. The drawing lamp according to claim 4, characterized in that: A condenser lens is disposed between the first light emitting element and the light shielding plate, and the condenser lens allows light emitted from a plurality of light emitting elements constituting the first light emitting element to enter the first opening.

6. A lamp for drawing, characterized in that: The image drawing lamp is configured to irradiate light emitted from the light emitting element toward the front of the lamp via a projection lens, thereby forming an image drawing light distribution pattern. A light shielding plate is arranged between the light emitting element and the projection lens, and the light shielding plate is used to shield a part of the light from the light emitting element toward the projection lens. The projection lens is arranged in a state where a first projection lens unit for long-distance image drawing and a second projection lens unit for short-distance image drawing are arranged in a desired direction intersecting the front-rear direction of the lamp. A plurality of openings are formed in the light shielding plate. The shading plate includes a first opening arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the first projection lens unit and a plurality of second openings arranged on the rear side of the lamp of the second projection lens unit as the plurality of openings. The image drawing lamp includes, as the light emitting elements, a first light emitting element disposed on the lamp rear side of the first opening and second light emitting elements disposed on the lamp rear sides of the plurality of second openings.

7. The drawing lamp according to claim 6, characterized in that: The plurality of second openings are formed in a state of being aligned in the up-down direction.

8. The drawing lamp according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The second light emitting elements are respectively arranged on the rear side of the lamp of each of the plurality of second openings.

9. The drawing lamp according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The plurality of openings are formed in a positional relationship in which a plurality of image drawing light distribution patterns formed by the light passing through the plurality of second openings and an image drawing light distribution pattern formed by the light passing through the first opening partially overlap each other.

10. The drawing lamp according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The first projection lens unit is formed to have a larger size than the second projection lens unit.

Images