Light emitting device and vehicle

Abstract

Provided is a light emitting device capable of causing a diffusing optical fiber to emit light more uniformly. The light emitting device includes: a light source that emits laser light; a first optical member that branches the laser light into first branched laser light and second branched laser light, reflects the first branched laser light, and transmits the second branched laser light; and a first diffusing optical fiber that has a first end portion into which at least a portion of the first branched laser light reflected by the first optical member is incident and a second end portion into which at least a portion of the second branched laser light is incident.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The implementation methods involve light-emitting devices and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] In light-emitting devices used in vehicles, there are structures where laser light emanating from a light source is directed into a diffuser fiber, causing the entire diffuser fiber to emit light. However, in such structures, one end of the diffuser fiber into which the laser light enters is brighter than the other end. In light-emitting devices, it is desirable to achieve more uniform light emission from the diffuser fiber.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-341128 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The purpose of this implementation is to provide a light-emitting device and vehicle that enable diffused optical fibers to emit light more uniformly.

[0008] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0009] A light-emitting device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a light source that irradiates a laser; a first optical component that branches the laser into a first branch laser and a second branch laser, reflects the first branch laser, and transmits the second branch laser; and a first diffusion fiber having a first end into which at least a portion of the first branch laser reflected by the first optical component enters and a second end into which at least a portion of the second branch laser enters.

[0010] Invention Effects

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a light-emitting device and a vehicle capable of emitting light more uniformly from a diffused optical fiber can be realized. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the light-emitting device of the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram showing a first modified example of the first embodiment of the light-emitting device.

[0015] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing a second variation of the light-emitting device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing a light-emitting device of a third variation of the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the fourth variation of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the fifth variation of the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the sixth variation of the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the seventh variation of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the third embodiment.

[0023] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0024] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0025] Figure 14 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0026] Figure 15 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the first modified example of the sixth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 16 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the second variation of the sixth embodiment.

[0028] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of a vehicle equipped with a light-emitting device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 18 This is an explanatory diagram showing a taillight equipped with a light-emitting device according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] The accompanying drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the ratio of the size between parts, etc., may not be the same as in reality. Even when representing the same part, there may be cases where the dimensions and ratios of each other are represented differently according to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] In this application specification and the accompanying drawings, elements that are the same as those already described are labeled with the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions are omitted where appropriate.

[0033] <Light-emitting device>

[0034] (First Implementation)

[0035] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the light-emitting device of the first embodiment.

[0036] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the first embodiment.

[0037] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the light-emitting device 100 of the first embodiment includes a light source 10, a first optical component 21, and a first diffusion fiber 31.

[0038] (light source)

[0039] The light source 10 irradiates the laser LT. In the light-emitting device 100, the light source 10 includes a first light source section 11a, a second light source section 11b, a third light source section 11c, a first collimating lens 12a, a second collimating lens 12b, a third collimating lens 12c, a first dichroic mirror 13a, and a second dichroic mirror 13b.

[0040] The first light source unit 11a emits a first laser LT1. The first laser LT1 has a first peak wavelength. The first laser LT1 is, for example, a blue laser. The first peak wavelength is, for example, 400 nm or more and less than 500 nm. The first light source unit 11a is, for example, a laser diode. The first laser LT1 can also be a green laser or a red laser.

[0041] The second light source unit 11b emits a second laser LT2. The second laser LT2 has a second peak wavelength. The second peak wavelength is different from the first peak wavelength. For example, the difference between the second peak wavelength and the first peak wavelength is 10 nm or more. The second laser LT2 is, for example, a green laser. The second peak wavelength is, for example, 500 nm or more and less than 600 nm. The second light source unit 11b is, for example, a laser diode. The second laser LT2 can also be a blue laser or a red laser.

[0042] The third light source unit 11c emits a third laser LT3. The third laser LT3 has a third peak wavelength. The third peak wavelength is different from the first peak wavelength and the second peak wavelength. For example, the difference between the third peak wavelength and the second peak wavelength and the first peak wavelength is 10 nm or more. The third laser LT3 is, for example, a red laser. The third peak wavelength is, for example, 600 nm or more and 700 nm or less. The third light source unit 11c is, for example, a laser diode. The third laser LT3 can also be a blue laser or a green laser.

[0043] The first collimating lens 12a collimates the first laser LT1. The second collimating lens 12b collimates the second laser LT2. The third collimating lens 12c collimates the third laser LT3. Here, collimation means that the light rays become parallel. It should be noted that parallelism includes an error of ±3°.

[0044] The first dichroic mirror 13a transmits the first laser LT1 and reflects the second laser LT2. The second dichroic mirror 13b transmits the first laser LT1 and the second laser LT2 and reflects the third laser LT3.

[0045] (First optical component)

[0046] The first optical component 21 splits the laser LT into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2. The first optical component 21 reflects the first branch laser LTB1 and transmits the second branch laser LTB2. The first optical component 21 is, for example, a beam splitter.

[0047] (First diffusion fiber)

[0048] The first diffusing fiber 31 has a first end 31a, a second end 31b, and a first intermediate portion 31c. The first end 31a is located at one end of the first diffusing fiber 31. The second end 31b is located at the other end of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first intermediate portion 31c is located between the first end 31a and the second end 31b. At least a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 reflected by the first optical component 21 enters the first end 31a. At least a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 enters the second end 31b.

[0049] The first end 31a has a first incident surface 31a1 into which the first branch laser LTB1 enters. The second end 31b has a second incident surface 31b1 into which the second branch laser LTB2 enters. In the light-emitting device 100, the first incident surface 31a1 and the second incident surface 31b1 are arranged to face the same direction. In addition, the distance D1 between the center of the first incident surface 31a1 and the center of the second incident surface 31b1 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 100 mm or less.

[0050] In addition, the light-emitting device 100 also includes a second optical component 22, a first condensing lens 41, a second condensing lens 42, and a frame 80. The second optical component 22, the first condensing lens 41, the second condensing lens 42, and the frame 80 can be omitted.

[0051] (Second optical component)

[0052] The second optical component 22 reflects at least a portion of the second branch laser LTB2. In the light-emitting device 100, the second optical component 22 is a reflector that reflects all of the second branch laser LTB2.

[0053] (First and second condenser lenses)

[0054] The first focusing lens 41 focuses the first branch laser LTB1 and directs it into the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The second focusing lens 42 focuses the second branch laser LTB2 and directs it into the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31.

[0055] (Frame)

[0056] A light source 10, a first optical component 21, a second optical component 22, a first condensing lens 41, and a second condensing lens 42 are disposed inside a frame 80. The frame 80 holds the light source 10, the first optical component 21, the second optical component 22, the first condensing lens 41, and the second condensing lens 42. A first diffusing fiber 31 is disposed outside the frame 80. The first end 31a and the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31 are connected to the frame 80.

[0057] In the light-emitting device 100, a first laser LT1 emitted from the first light source 11a is collimated by the first collimating lens 12a and transmitted through the first dichroic mirror 13a. A second laser LT2 emitted from the second light source 11b is collimated by the second collimating lens 12b and reflected by the first dichroic mirror 13a. The collimated first laser LT1 and collimated second laser LT2 are wavelength-combined by the first dichroic mirror 13a. The laser resulting from the combination of the first laser LT1 and the second laser LT2 is transmitted through the second dichroic mirror 13b. A third laser LT3 emitted from the third light source 11c is collimated by the third collimating lens 12c and reflected by the second dichroic mirror 13b. The laser resulting from the combination of the first laser LT1 and the second laser LT2 and the collimated third laser LT3 are wavelength-combined by the second dichroic mirror 13b. Thus, the light source 10 irradiates the laser LT resulting from the combination of the first laser LT1, the second laser LT2, and the third laser LT3. For example, when the first laser LT1 is a blue laser, the second laser LT2 is a green laser, and the third laser LT3 is a red laser, the light source 10 illuminates the laser LT, which is the result of the combined wavelengths of the red laser, the green laser, and the blue laser.

[0058] The laser LT emitted from the light source 10 branches into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2 in the first optical component 21. The first branch laser LTB1 is focused by the first condenser lens 41 and enters the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a exits, for example, from the second end 31b. The second branch laser LTB2 is reflected by the second optical component 22, focused by the second condenser lens 42, and enters the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. The second branch laser LTB2 entering from the second end 31b passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the first end 31a. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2 entering from the second end 31b exits, for example, from the first end 31a.

[0059] In this way, in the light-emitting device 100, the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 is branched into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2, and respectively injected into the first end 31a and the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. This allows the first diffusing fiber 31 to emit light more uniformly compared to the case where laser light is injected only from one end of the first diffusing fiber 31. Furthermore, compared to the case where the laser LT is not branched into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2, but light sources are provided at both ends of the first diffusing fiber 31, the light-emitting device 100 can be miniaturized.

[0060] In addition, in the light-emitting device 100, the light source 10 irradiates the laser obtained by combining the first laser LT1 emitted from the first light source section 11a and the second laser LT2 emitted from the second light source section 11b, thereby improving the output of the laser LT.

[0061] In addition, in the light-emitting device 100, the first laser LT1 has a first peak wavelength, and the second laser LT2 has a second peak wavelength that is different from the first peak wavelength, thereby enabling lasers of various colors to be injected into the first diffusion fiber 31.

[0062] Furthermore, in the light-emitting device 100, the light source 10 irradiates the laser LT, which is a combination of the wavelengths of red, green, and blue lasers, thereby enabling the white laser LT to be directed into the first diffuser fiber 31. It should be noted that it is preferable that the radiant flux of the red laser is greater than that of the green laser, and the radiant flux of the green laser is greater than that of the blue laser. For example, by setting the first laser LT1 emitted from the first light source 11a to a blue laser, the second laser LT2 emitted from the second light source 11b to a green laser, and the third laser LT3 emitted from the third light source 11c to a red laser, the optical path length of the red laser can be shorter than that of the green laser, and the optical path length of the green laser can be shorter than that of the blue laser. Therefore, the radiant flux of the red laser can be greater than that of the green laser, and the radiant flux of the green laser can be greater than that of the blue laser.

[0063] In addition, in the light-emitting device 100, the first incident surface 31a1 and the second incident surface 31b1 are arranged in the same direction, so that when the first diffusion fiber 31 is arranged, the winding or bending can be reduced, thereby increasing the design freedom when the light-emitting device 100 is lit.

[0064] Furthermore, in the light-emitting device 100, the distance D1 between the center of the first incident surface 31a1 and the center of the second incident surface 31b1 is 1 mm or more and 100 mm or less, thereby reducing the difference between the distance from the light source 10 to the first condenser lens 41 and the distance from the light source 10 to the second condenser lens 42. Therefore, the effect of laser diffusion can be reduced, and the focusing efficiency of the first condenser lens 41 and the second condenser lens 42 can be made equal. Additionally, the light-emitting device 100 can be miniaturized.

[0065] (First variation of the first embodiment)

[0066] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram showing a first modified example of the first embodiment of the light-emitting device.

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the light-emitting device 100A of the first variant of the first embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100 except that the light source 10 is different.

[0068] In the light-emitting device 100A, the light source 10 includes a first light source section 11a, a second light source section 11b, a first collimating lens 12a, a second collimating lens 12b, and a first dichroic mirror 13a. In the light-emitting device 100A, the light source 10 does not include a third light source section 11c, a third collimating lens 12c, and a second dichroic mirror 13b.

[0069] In the light-emitting device 100A, a first laser LT1 emitted from the first light source 11a is collimated by a first collimating lens 12a and transmitted through a first dichroic mirror 13a. A second laser LT2 emitted from the second light source 11b is collimated by a second collimating lens 12b and reflected by the first dichroic mirror 13a. The collimated first laser LT1 and collimated second laser LT2 are wavelength-combined by the first dichroic mirror 13a. Thus, the light source 10 irradiates the laser LT resulting from the combination of the collimated first laser LT1 and collimated second laser LT2. The branching of the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 and its incident on the first diffusing fiber 31 are substantially the same as in the light-emitting device 100, and therefore, description is omitted.

[0070] In the light-emitting device 100A, costs can be reduced compared to the light-emitting device 100 when none of the red, green, and blue lasers are required. The light-emitting device 100A is preferably used, for example, in applications requiring only turquoise light emission.

[0071] (Second variation of the first embodiment)

[0072] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing a second variation of the light-emitting device according to the first embodiment.

[0073] like Figure 4 As shown, the light-emitting device 100B of the second variation of the first embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100 except that the light source 10 is different.

[0074] In the light-emitting device 100B, the light source 10 has a first light source section 11a and a first collimating lens 12a. In the light-emitting device 100B, the light source 10 does not have a second light source section 11b, a third light source section 11c, a second collimating lens 12b, a third collimating lens 12c, a first dichroic mirror 13a, and a second dichroic mirror 13b.

[0075] In the light-emitting device 100B, the first laser LT1 (laser LT) emitted from the first light source section 11a is collimated by the first collimating lens 12a. As a result, the light source 10 illuminates the collimated first laser LT1 (laser LT). The branching of the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 and its incident on the first diffusion fiber 31 are substantially the same as those in the light-emitting device 100, so the description is omitted.

[0076] In the light-emitting device 100B, costs can be reduced compared to the light-emitting device 100 when a single color can be used. The light-emitting device 100B is preferably used, for example, in situations where only red light needs to be emitted, such as in a taillight application.

[0077] (Third variation of the first embodiment)

[0078] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing a light-emitting device of a third variation of the first embodiment.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, the light-emitting device 100C of the third variation of the first embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100 except that the light source 10 is different.

[0080] In the light-emitting device 100C, the light source 10 includes a first light source section 11a, a second light source section 11b, a third light source section 11c, a first collimating lens 12a, a second collimating lens 12b, a third collimating lens 12c, a fourth collimating lens 12d, a fifth collimating lens 12e, a sixth collimating lens 12f, a first dichroic mirror 13a, a second dichroic mirror 13b, a first polarizing beam combining component 14a, a second polarizing beam combining component 14b, and a third polarizing beam combining component 14c. The first light source section 11a includes an S-polarized first light source section 11as and a P-polarized first light source section 11ap. The second light source section 11b includes an S-polarized second light source section 11bs and a P-polarized second light source section 11bp. The third light source section 11c includes an S-polarized third light source section 11cs and a P-polarized third light source section 11cp.

[0081] The S-polarized light source unit 11as emits a first S-polarized laser LT1s. The P-polarized light source unit 11ap emits a first P-polarized laser LT1p. When the first laser LT1 is a blue laser, the first S-polarized laser LT1s is a blue S-polarized laser, and the first P-polarized laser LT1p is a blue P-polarized laser.

[0082] The second source section 11bs of S-polarized light emits a second laser LT2s of S-polarized light. The second source section 11bp of P-polarized light emits a second laser LT2p of P-polarized light. When the second laser LT2 is a green laser, the second laser LT2s of S-polarized light is a green laser of S-polarized light, and the second laser LT2p of P-polarized light is a green laser of P-polarized light.

[0083] The S-polarized light third light source section 11cs emits the S-polarized light third laser LT3s. The P-polarized light third light source section 11cp emits the P-polarized light third laser LT3p. When the third laser LT3 is a red laser, the S-polarized light third laser LT3s is a red S-polarized light laser, and the P-polarized light third laser LT3p is a red P-polarized light laser.

[0084] The first collimating lens 12a collimates the first P-polarized laser LT1p. The second collimating lens 12b collimates the first S-polarized laser LT1s. The third collimating lens 12c collimates the second P-polarized laser LT2p. The fourth collimating lens 12d collimates the second S-polarized laser LT2s. The fifth collimating lens 12e collimates the third P-polarized laser LT3p. The sixth collimating lens 12f collimates the third S-polarized laser LT3s.

[0085] The first polarizing beam combiner 14a transmits the first P-polarized laser LT1p and reflects the first S-polarized laser LT1s. The second polarizing beam combiner 14b transmits the second P-polarized laser LT2p and reflects the second S-polarized laser LT2s. The third polarizing beam combiner 14c transmits the third P-polarized laser LT3p and reflects the third S-polarized laser LT3s.

[0086] In the light-emitting device 100C, the first laser LT1p of P-polarized light emitted from the first P-polarized light source 11ap is collimated by the first collimating lens 12a and transmitted through the first polarization combining component 14a. The first laser LT1s of S-polarized light emitted from the first S-polarized light source 11as is collimated by the second collimating lens 12b and reflected by the first polarization combining component 14a. The collimated first laser LT1s of S-polarized light and the collimated first laser LT1p of P-polarized light are combined by the first polarization combining component 14a to become the first laser LT1. The second laser LT2p of P-polarized light emitted from the second P-polarized light source 11bp is collimated by the third collimating lens 12c and transmitted through the second polarization combining component 14b. The second laser LT2s of S-polarized light emitted from the second S-polarized light source 11bs is collimated by the fourth collimating lens 12d and reflected by the second polarization combining component 14b. The collimated S-polarized second laser LT2s and collimated P-polarized second laser LT2p are combined by the second polarization combining component 14b to become the second laser LT2. The P-polarized third laser LT3p emitted from the P-polarized third light source 11cp is collimated by the fifth collimating lens 12e and transmitted through the third polarization combining component 14c. The S-polarized third laser LT3s emitted from the S-polarized third light source 11cs is collimated by the sixth collimating lens 12f and reflected by the third polarization combining component 14c. The collimated S-polarized third laser LT3s and collimated P-polarized third laser LT3p are combined by the third polarization combining component 14c to become the third laser LT3. The wavelength combining of the first laser LT1, the second laser LT2, and the third laser LT3 is substantially the same as that of the light-emitting device 100, therefore, the description is omitted. Light source 10 illuminates the laser LT1, which is the combined laser LT1 (formed by combining S-polarized first laser LT1s and P-polarized first laser LT1P), the laser LT2, which is the combined laser LT2 (formed by combining S-polarized second laser LT2s and P-polarized second laser LT2P), and the laser LT3, which is the combined laser LT3 (formed by combining S-polarized third laser LT3s and P-polarized third laser LT3P). When the first laser LT1 is blue, the second laser LT2 is green, and the third laser LT3 is red, light source 10 illuminates the laser LT, which is the combined laser LT (formed by combining S-polarized red laser and P-polarized red laser), the combined laser LT (formed by combining S-polarized green laser and P-polarized green laser), and the combined laser LT (formed by combining S-polarized blue laser and P-polarized blue laser). The branching of the laser LT emitted from light source 10 and its insertion into the first diffusion fiber 31 are substantially the same as those of the light-emitting device 100, and therefore descriptions are omitted.

[0087] In this way, in the light-emitting device 100C, the light source 10 illuminates the laser LT, which is a combination of red, green, and blue wavelengths of polarized light combined, thereby increasing the output of the laser LT and adjusting the color to the desired hue, so that lasers of various colors can be injected into the first diffusion fiber 31.

[0088] (Fourth variation of the first embodiment)

[0089] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the fourth variation of the first embodiment.

[0090] like Figure 6 As shown, the light-emitting device 100D of the fourth variation of the first embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100C except that the light source 10 is different.

[0091] In the light-emitting device 100D, the light source 10 includes a first light source section 11a, a second light source section 11b, a first collimating lens 12a, a second collimating lens 12b, a third collimating lens 12c, a fourth collimating lens 12d, a first dichroic mirror 13a, a first polarizing beam combining component 14a, and a second polarizing beam combining component 14b. The first light source section 11a includes an S-polarized first light source section (fourth light source section) 11as and a P-polarized first light source section (fifth light source section) 11ap. The second light source section 11b includes an S-polarized second light source section (sixth light source section) 11bs and a P-polarized second light source section (seventh light source section) 11bp. In the light-emitting device 100D, the light source 10 does not include the third light source section 11c, the fifth collimating lens 12e, the sixth collimating lens 12f, the second dichroic mirror 13b, and the third polarizing beam combining component 14c.

[0092] In the light-emitting device 100D, the first laser LT1p of P-polarized light emitted from the first P-polarized light source unit 11ap is collimated by the first collimating lens 12a and transmitted through the first polarization combining member 14a. The first laser LT1s of S-polarized light emitted from the first S-polarized light source unit 11as is collimated by the second collimating lens 12b and reflected by the first polarization combining member 14a. The collimated first laser LT1s of S-polarized light and the collimated first laser LT1p of P-polarized light are combined by the first polarization combining member 14a to become the first laser LT1. In other words, the first light source unit 11a combines the first laser LT1s of S-polarized light and the first laser LT1p of P-polarized light and emits them. The second laser LT2p of P-polarized light emitted from the second P-polarized light source unit 11bp is collimated by the third collimating lens 12c and transmitted through the second polarization combining member 14b. The second S-polarized laser LT2s emitted from the second S-polarized light source section 11bs is collimated by the fourth collimating lens 12d and reflected by the second polarization combining member 14b. The collimated second S-polarized laser LT2s and the collimated second P-polarized laser LT2p are combined by the second polarization combining member 14b to become the second laser LT2. In other words, the second light source section 11b combines the polarized second laser LT2s and the P-polarized second laser LT2P and emits them. The wavelength combination of the first laser LT1 and the second laser LT2 is substantially the same as that of the light-emitting device 100, so the description is omitted. The light source 10 irradiates the laser LT1 formed by the combination of the first S-polarized laser LT1s and the first P-polarized laser LT1P, and the laser LT2 formed by the combination of the polarized second laser LT2s and the second P-polarized laser LT2P. The branch of the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 and its incident on the first diffusion fiber 31 are substantially the same as those of the light-emitting device 100, so the description is omitted.

[0093] In the light-emitting device 100D, the output can be increased and the same effect as that of the light-emitting device 100A can be obtained.

[0094] (Fifth variation of the first embodiment)

[0095] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the fifth variation of the first embodiment.

[0096] like Figure 7 As shown, the light-emitting device 100E of the fifth variation of the first embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100C except that the light source 10 is different.

[0097] In the light-emitting device 100E, the light source 10 includes a first light source section 11a, a first collimating lens 12a, a second collimating lens 12b, and a first polarizing beam combining component 14a. The first light source section 11a includes an S-polarized light first light source section 11as and a P-polarized light first light source section 11ap. In the light-emitting device 100E, the light source 10 does not include a second light source section 11b, a third light source section 11c, a third collimating lens 12c, a fourth collimating lens 12d, a fifth collimating lens 12e, a sixth collimating lens 12f, a first dichroic mirror 13a, a second dichroic mirror 13b, a second polarizing beam combining component 14b, and a third polarizing beam combining component 14c.

[0098] In the light-emitting device 100E, the first laser LT1p of P-polarized light emitted from the first P-polarized light source 11ap is collimated by the first collimating lens 12a and transmitted through the first polarization combining member 14a. The first laser LT1s of S-polarized light emitted from the first S-polarized light source 11as is collimated by the second collimating lens 12b and reflected by the first polarization combining member 14a. The collimated first laser LT1s of S-polarized light and the collimated first laser LT1p of P-polarized light are polarized and combined by the first polarization combining member 14a to become the first laser LT1 (laser LT). The wavelength combination of the first laser LT1 (laser LT) is substantially the same as that of the light-emitting device 100, so the description is omitted. The first laser LT1 (laser LT) after polarization and the first laser LT1p of P-polarized light are irradiated by the light source 10. The branching of the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 and its incident on the first diffusion fiber 31 are substantially the same as those of the light-emitting device 100, so the description is omitted.

[0099] In the light-emitting device 100E, the output can be increased and the same effect as that of the light-emitting device 100B can be obtained.

[0100] (Sixth variation of the first embodiment)

[0101] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the sixth variation of the first embodiment.

[0102] like Figure 8 As shown, the light-emitting device 100F of the sixth variation of the first embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100 except that the light source 10 is different.

[0103] In the light-emitting device 100F, the light source 10 includes a first light source section 11a, a second light source section 11b, a third light source section 11c, a first collimating lens 12a, a second collimating lens 12b, a third collimating lens 12c, a fourth collimating lens 12d, a fifth collimating lens 12e, a sixth collimating lens 12f, a first dichroic mirror 13a, a second dichroic mirror 13b, a third dichroic mirror 13c, a fourth dichroic mirror 13d, and a first polarizing beam combining component 14a. The first light source section 11a includes an S-polarized first light source section 11as and a P-polarized first light source section 11ap. The second light source section 11b includes an S-polarized second light source section 11bs and a P-polarized second light source section 11bp. The third light source section 11c includes an S-polarized third light source section 11cs and a P-polarized third light source section 11cp.

[0104] First collimating lens 12a collimates the first laser LT1p of P-polarized light. Second collimating lens 12b collimates the second laser LT2p of P-polarized light. Third collimating lens 12c collimates the third laser LT3p of P-polarized light. Fourth collimating lens 12d collimates the first laser LT1s of S-polarized light. Fifth collimating lens 12e collimates the second laser LT2s of S-polarized light. Sixth collimating lens 12f collimates the third laser LT3s of S-polarized light.

[0105] The first dichroic mirror 13a transmits the first P-polarized laser LT1p and reflects the second P-polarized laser LT2p. The second dichroic mirror 13b transmits both the first and second P-polarized lasers LT1p and LT2p and reflects the third P-polarized laser LT3p. The third dichroic mirror 13c transmits the first S-polarized laser LT1s and reflects the second S-polarized laser LT2s. The second dichroic mirror 13b transmits both the first and second S-polarized lasers LT1s and LT2s and reflects the third S-polarized laser LT3s.

[0106] The first polarization beam combining component 14a transmits the first P-polarized laser LT1p, the second P-polarized laser LT2p, and the third P-polarized laser LT3p, and reflects the first S-polarized laser LT1s, the second S-polarized laser LT2s, and the third S-polarized laser LT3s.

[0107] In the light-emitting device 100F, a first laser LT1p of P-polarized light emitted from the first P-polarized light source unit 11ap is collimated by a first collimating lens 12a and transmitted through a first dichroic mirror 13a. A second laser LT2p of P-polarized light emitted from the second P-polarized light source unit 11bp is collimated by a second collimating lens 12b and reflected by the first dichroic mirror 13a. The collimated first laser LT1p and collimated second laser LT2p are wavelength-combined by the first dichroic mirror 13a. The laser after wavelength combination of the first laser LT1p and the second laser LT2p is transmitted through the second dichroic mirror 13b. A third laser LT3p of P-polarized light emitted from the third P-polarized light source unit 11cp is collimated by a third collimating lens 12c and reflected by the second dichroic mirror 13b. The combined laser beams of P-polarized light, LT1p and LT2p, and collimated P-polarized light, LT3p, are wavelength-combined by the second dichroic mirror 13b to form the first combined laser LCa. The first combined laser LCa is transmitted through the first polarized beam combining component 14a. The first S-polarized laser beam, LT1s, emitted from the first S-polarized light source 11as, is collimated by the fourth collimating lens 12d and transmitted through the third dichroic mirror 13c. The second S-polarized laser beam, LT2s, emitted from the second S-polarized light source 11bs, is collimated by the fifth collimating lens 12e and reflected by the third dichroic mirror 13c. The collimated first S-polarized laser beam, LT1s, and collimated second S-polarized laser beam, LT2s, are wavelength-combined by the third dichroic mirror 13c. The combined laser beam of the first S-polarized laser beam, LT1s, and second S-polarized laser beam, LT2s, is transmitted through the fourth dichroic mirror 13d. The third S-polarized laser LT3s emitted from the third S-polarized light source 11cs is collimated by the sixth collimating lens 12f and reflected by the fourth dichroic mirror 13d. The laser resulting from the combination of the first S-polarized laser LT1s and the second S-polarized laser LT2s, and the collimated third S-polarized laser LT3s, is wavelength-combined by the fourth dichroic mirror 13d, thus becoming the second combined laser LCb. The second combined laser LCb is reflected by the first polarizing and combining component 14a. The first combined laser LCa and the second combined laser LCb are polarized and combined by the first polarizing and combining component 14a. Thus, the light source 10 illuminates the laser LT resulting from the wavelength combination of the first P-polarized laser LT1p, the second P-polarized laser LT2p, and the third P-polarized laser LT3p, and the first combined laser LCa, the first S-polarized laser LT1s, the second S-polarized laser LT2s, and the third S-polarized laser LT3s, and the second combined laser LCb, which is polarized and combined by the light source 10.For example, in the case where the first S-polarized laser LT1s is a blue S-polarized laser, the first P-polarized laser LT1p is a blue P-polarized laser, the second S-polarized laser LT2s is a green S-polarized laser, the second P-polarized laser LT2p is a green P-polarized laser, the third S-polarized laser LT3s is a red S-polarized laser, and the third P-polarized laser LT3p is a red P-polarized laser, the light source 10 illuminates the laser LT, which is the first combined laser LCa (after wavelength combining of the red P-polarized laser, the green P-polarized laser, and the blue P-polarized laser) and the laser LT, which is the second combined laser LCb (after wavelength combining of the red S-polarized laser, the green S-polarized laser, and the blue S-polarized laser). The branching of the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 and its incident on the first diffusion fiber 31 are substantially the same as those of the light-emitting device 100, therefore, the description is omitted.

[0108] In this way, in the light-emitting device 100F, the light source 10 irradiates the laser LT after polarization and combining the first combined laser LCa and the second combined laser LCb, thereby improving the output of the laser LT and adjusting the color to the desired hue, thereby enabling lasers of various colors to be injected into the first diffusion fiber 31.

[0109] (Seventh variation of the first embodiment)

[0110] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the seventh variation of the first embodiment.

[0111] like Figure 9 As shown, the light-emitting device 100G of the seventh variation of the first embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100F, except that the light source 10 is different.

[0112] In the light-emitting device 100G, the light source 10 includes a first light source section 11a, a second light source section 11b, a first collimating lens 12a, a second collimating lens 12b, a fourth collimating lens 12d, a fifth collimating lens 12e, a first dichroic mirror 13a, a third dichroic mirror 13c, and a first polarizing beam combining component 14a. The first light source section 11a includes an S-polarized first light source section (fourth light source section) 11as and a P-polarized first light source section (fifth light source section) 11ap. The second light source section 11b includes an S-polarized second light source section (sixth light source section) 11bs and a P-polarized second light source section (seventh light source section) 11bp. In the light-emitting device 100G, the light source 10 does not include the third light source section 11c, the third collimating lens 12c, the sixth collimating lens 12f, the second dichroic mirror 13b, and the fourth dichroic mirror 13d.

[0113] In the light-emitting device 100G, a first laser LT1p of P-polarized light emitted from the first P-polarized light source unit 11ap is collimated by a first collimating lens 12a and transmitted through a first dichroic mirror 13a. A second laser LT2p of P-polarized light emitted from the second P-polarized light source unit 11bp is collimated by a second collimating lens 12b and reflected by the first dichroic mirror 13a. The collimated first laser LT1p and collimated second laser LT2p are wavelength-combined by the first dichroic mirror 13a. The wavelength-combined first laser LT1p and second laser LT2p of P-polarized light are thus combined by the first dichroic mirror 13a to form a first combined laser LCa. The first light source unit 11a emits the first combined laser LCa, after wavelength combination of the first laser LT1p and the second laser LT2p of P-polarized light, toward a first polarizing beam combining member 14a. The first combined laser LCa is transmitted through the first polarizing beam combining member 14a. The first S-polarized laser LT1s emitted from the first S-polarized light source 11as is collimated by the fourth collimating lens 12d and transmitted through the third dichroic mirror 13c. The second S-polarized laser LT2s emitted from the second S-polarized light source 11bs is collimated by the fifth collimating lens 12e and reflected by the third dichroic mirror 13c. The collimated first S-polarized laser LT1s and collimated second S-polarized laser LT2s are wavelength-combined by the third dichroic mirror 13c. The wavelength-combined first S-polarized laser LT1s and second S-polarized laser LT2s by the third dichroic mirror 13c become the second combined laser LCb. The second light source 11b emits the second combined laser LCb, after wavelength combination of the first S-polarized laser LT1s and the second S-polarized laser LT2s, toward the first polarizing beam combining member 14a. The second combined laser LCb is reflected by the first polarizing beam combining member 14a. The first combined laser LCa and the second combined laser LCb are polarized and combined by the first polarizing and combining component 14a. Thus, the light source 10 illuminates the laser LT resulting from the first combined laser LCa (polarized by wavelength combining of the first P-polarized laser LT1p and the second P-polarized laser LT2p) and the laser LT resulting from the first combined laser LCa (polarized by wavelength combining of the first S-polarized laser LT1s and the second S-polarized laser LT2s) and the laser LT resulting from the second combined laser LCb (polarized by wavelength combining of the first combined laser LT). The branching of the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 and its incident direction onto the first diffusing fiber 31 are substantially the same as those of the light-emitting device 100, therefore, description is omitted.

[0114] In the light-emitting device 100G, the output can be increased and the same effect as that of the light-emitting device 100A can be obtained.

[0115] (Second Implementation)

[0116] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the second embodiment.

[0117] like Figure 10 As shown, the light-emitting device 200 of the second embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100, except that the second optical component 22 is different and it also has a light-receiving element 50.

[0118] In the light-emitting device 200, the second optical component 22 splits the second branch laser LTB2 into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4. The second optical component 22 reflects the third branch laser LTB3 and transmits the fourth branch laser LTB4. In the light-emitting device 200, the second optical component 22 is, for example, a beam splitter.

[0119] The illumination from the laser LT from the light source 10 is substantially the same as that from the light-emitting device 100, therefore description is omitted. In the light-emitting device 200, the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 branches into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2 in the first optical component 21. The first branch laser LTB1 is focused by the first condenser lens 41 and enters the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a exits, for example, from the second end 31b. The second branch laser LTB2 branches into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4 in the second optical component 22. The third branch laser LTB3 is reflected by the second optical component 22, focused by the second condenser lens 42, and enters the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. The third branch laser LTB3 is the portion of the second branch laser LTB2 reflected by the second optical component 22. The third branch laser LTB3, which enters from the second end 31b, passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the first end 31a. A portion of the third branch laser LTB3, which enters from the second end 31b, exits, for example, from the first end 31a. The fourth branch laser LTB4, which transmits through the second optical component 22, enters the light-receiving element 50. The fourth branch laser LTB4 is the portion of the second branch laser LTB2 that is transmitted through the second optical component 22. The fourth branch laser LTB4 is, for example, less than 10% of the second branch laser LTB2, and preferably less than 5% of the second branch laser LTB2.

[0120] (Light receiving element)

[0121] The light-receiving element 50 detects the presence or absence of the fourth branch laser LTB4 and the intensity of the incident fourth branch laser LTB4. The light-receiving element 50 is, for example, a photodiode or phototransistor. Preferably, the light-receiving element 50 is capable of independently measuring the output of each RGB color. By using such a light-receiving element 50, detailed color adjustment is possible. The light-receiving element 50 outputs the detection results to a control device (not shown). The control device controls the operation of the light source 10 based on the detection results. For example, if the fourth branch laser LTB4 does not enter the light-receiving element 50, the control device stops the emission of laser LT from the light source 10.

[0122] In this way, by directing the fourth branch laser LTB4, which is part of the second branch laser LTB2, into the light-receiving element 50, malfunctions in the light-emitting device 200 can be detected. Furthermore, if a malfunction occurs in the light-emitting device 200, the emission of laser LT from the light source 10 can be stopped, thereby improving the safety of the light-emitting device 200.

[0123] (Third Implementation)

[0124] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the third embodiment.

[0125] like Figure 11 As shown, the light-emitting device 300 of the third embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100 except that it also includes a light-receiving element 50.

[0126] The illumination from the laser LT from the light source 10 is substantially the same as that from the light-emitting device 100, therefore description is omitted. In the light-emitting device 300, the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 branches into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2 in the first optical component 21. The first branch laser LTB1 is focused by the first focusing lens 41 and directed into the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces towards the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a exits from the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 exiting from the second end 31b is reflected by the second optical component 22 towards the first optical component 21, and further reflected by the first optical component 21, thereby entering the light-receiving element 50. The portion of the first branch laser LTB1 exiting from the second end 31b that is reflected by the first optical component 21 and enters the light-receiving element 50 is 10% or less, preferably 5% or less. The second branch laser LTB2 is reflected by the second optical component 22, focused by the second condenser lens 42, and directed into the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. The second branch laser LTB2 entering from the second end 31b passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the first end 31a. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2 entering from the second end 31b exits from the first end 31a. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2 exiting from the first end 31a is transmitted through the first optical component 21 and enters the light-receiving element 50. The portion of the second branch laser LTB2 that is transmitted through the first optical component 21 and enters the light-receiving element 50 from the first end 31a is 10% or less, preferably 5% or less.

[0127] (Light receiving element)

[0128] The light-receiving element 50 detects the presence or absence of a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2, as well as the intensity of the incident portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and the second branch laser LTB2. The light-receiving element 50 is, for example, a photodiode or a phototransistor. The light-receiving element 50 outputs the detection result to a control device (not shown). The control device controls the operation of the light source 10 based on the detection result. For example, when a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 do not enter the light-receiving element 50, the control device stops emitting laser LT from the light source 10.

[0129] Thus, in the light-emitting device 300, by directing a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 into the light-receiving element 50, malfunctions in the light-emitting device 300 can be detected. Furthermore, in the event of a malfunction in the light-emitting device 300, the emission of laser LT from the light source 10 is stopped, thereby improving the safety of the light-emitting device 300. In the light-emitting device 300, the output via the first diffusing fiber 31 can be monitored, thus enabling, for example, the detection of abnormalities when the first diffusing fiber 31 is damaged.

[0130] (Fourth Implementation)

[0131] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0132] like Figure 12 As shown, the light-emitting device 400 of the fourth embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100 except that it also includes a polarizing component 60.

[0133] The illumination from the laser LT from the light source 10 is substantially the same as that from the light-emitting device 100, therefore description is omitted. In the light-emitting device 400, the light source 10 irradiates, for example, an S-polarized laser LT. The laser LT emitted from the light source 10 branches into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2 in the first optical component 21. The first branch laser LTB1 is focused by the first condenser lens 41 and enters the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a exits from the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 exiting from the second end 31b is reflected by the second optical component 22, passes through the first optical component 21, and faces the light source 10. The second branch laser LTB2 is reflected by the second optical component 22, focused by the second condenser lens 42, and enters the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. The second branch laser LTB2, which enters from the second end 31b, passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the first end 31a. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2, which enters from the second end 31b, exits from the first end 31a. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2, which exits from the first end 31a, is reflected by the first optical component 21 and faces the light source 10. Thus, a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 sometimes face the light source 10 from the first optical component 21.

[0134] (Polarizing component)

[0135] A polarizing component 60 is disposed between the light source 10 and the first optical component 21. The polarizing component 60, for example, transmits the S-polarized component of a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2, while reflecting the P-polarized component. Thus, it is possible to block the P-polarized component of a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 from the first optical component 21 toward the light source 10. The laser LT irradiated from the light source 10 is S-polarized light, and therefore is transmitted through the polarizing component 60.

[0136] Thus, the light-emitting device 400 also includes a polarizing component 60 disposed between the light source 10 and the first optical component 21, thereby reducing the generation of COD (Catastrophic Optical Damage) caused by a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 reaching the light source 10.

[0137] It should be noted that the light source 10 can also irradiate P-polarized laser LT. In this case, the polarizing component 60 transmits the P-polarized component from a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2, and reflects the S-polarized component. Since the laser LT irradiated from the light source 10 is P-polarized, it is transmitted through the polarizing component 60. The polarizing component 60 transmits the polarized component that is the same as the polarized component of the laser LT irradiated from the light source 10, and reflects the different polarized components.

[0138] (Fifth implementation method)

[0139] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0140] like Figure 13 As shown, the light-emitting device 500 of the fifth embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 100 except that it has a third optical component 23, a fourth optical component 24, a second diffusion fiber 32, a third condensing lens 43, and a fourth condensing lens 44, which are different from the second optical component 22.

[0141] In the light-emitting device 500, the second optical component 22 splits the second branch laser LTB2 into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4. The second optical component 22 reflects the third branch laser LTB3 and transmits the fourth branch laser LTB4. In the light-emitting device 500, the second optical component 22 is, for example, a beam splitter.

[0142] (Third optical component)

[0143] The third optical component 23 splits the fourth branch laser LTB4 into a fifth branch laser LTB5 and a sixth branch laser LTB6. The third optical component 23 reflects the fifth branch laser LTB5 and transmits the sixth branch laser LTB6. The third optical component 23 is, for example, a beam splitter.

[0144] (Fourth optical component)

[0145] The fourth optical component 24 reflects at least a portion of the sixth branch laser LTB6. In the light-emitting device 500, the fourth optical component 24 is a reflector that reflects the entire sixth branch laser LTB6.

[0146] (Second diffusion fiber)

[0147] The second diffusing fiber 32 has a third end 32a, a fourth end 32b, and a second intermediate portion 32c. The third end 32a is located at one end of the second diffusing fiber 32. The fourth end 32b is located at the other end of the second diffusing fiber 32. The second intermediate portion 32c is located between the third end 32a and the fourth end 32b. A fifth branch laser LTB5, reflected by the third optical component 23, is incident on the third end 32a. A sixth branch laser LTB6, reflected by the fourth optical component 24, is incident on the fourth end 32b.

[0148] The third end 32a has a third incident surface 32a1 into which the fifth branch laser LTB5 is incident. The fourth end 32b has a fourth incident surface 32b into which the sixth branch laser LTB6 is incident. In the light-emitting device 500, the third incident surface 32a1 and the fourth incident surface 32b1 are arranged in the same direction. In addition, the distance D2 between the center of the third incident surface 32a1 and the center of the fourth incident surface 32b1 is, for example, 1 mm or more and 100 mm or less.

[0149] (Third and fourth condenser lenses)

[0150] The third focusing lens 43 focuses the fifth branch laser LTB5 and directs it into the third end 32a of the second diffusing fiber 32. The fourth focusing lens 44 focuses the sixth branch laser LTB6 and directs it into the fourth end 32b of the second diffusing fiber 32.

[0151] The illumination from the laser LT of the light source 10 is substantially the same as that of the light-emitting device 100, and therefore description is omitted. In the light-emitting device 500, the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 branches into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2 in the first optical component 21. The first branch laser LTB1 is focused by the first condenser lens 41 and enters the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a exits, for example, from the second end 31b. The second branch laser LTB2 branches into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4 in the second optical component 22. The third branch laser LTB3 is reflected by the second optical component 22, focused by the second condenser lens 42, and enters the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. The third branch laser LTB3 is the portion of the second branch laser LTB2 reflected by the second optical component 22. The third branch laser LTB3, entering from the second end 31b, passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the first end 31a. A portion of the third branch laser LTB3, entering from the second end 31b, exits, for example, from the first end 31a. The fourth branch laser LTB4 branches into a fifth branch laser LTB5 and a sixth branch laser LTB6 within the third optical component 23. The fifth branch laser LTB5 is reflected by the third optical component 23, focused by the third condenser lens 43, and enters the third end 32a of the second diffusing fiber 32. The fifth branch laser LTB5 is the portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4 reflected by the third optical component 23. The fifth branch laser LTB5, entering from the third end 32a, passes through the second intermediate portion 32c and faces the fourth end 32b. A portion of the fifth branch laser LTB5, entering from the third end 32a, exits, for example, from the fourth end 32b. The sixth branch laser LTB6 is reflected by the fourth optical component 24, focused by the fourth focusing lens 44, and directed into the fourth end 32b of the second diffusing fiber 32. The sixth branch laser LTB6 entering from the fourth end 32b passes through the second intermediate portion 32c and faces the third end 32a. A portion of the sixth branch laser LTB6 entering from the fourth end 32b exits, for example, from the third end 32a.

[0152] In this way, in the light-emitting device 500, the laser LT emitted from the light source 10 is branched into a first branch laser LTB1, a third branch laser LTB3, a fifth branch laser LTB5, and a sixth branch laser LTB6, which are respectively injected into the first end 31a and the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31, and the third end 32a and the fourth end 32b of the second diffusing fiber 32. This allows for more uniform light emission from the first diffusing fiber 31 and the second diffusing fiber 32 compared to the case where laser light is injected only from one end of either fiber. It should be noted that the configuration of each end of the first diffusing fiber 31 and the second diffusing fiber 32 can be changed, thus altering the laser light injected into each end. For example, the third branch laser LTB3 could be injected into the third end 32a of the second diffusing fiber 32, and the fifth branch laser LTB5 could be injected into the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31.

[0153] (Sixth Implementation Method)

[0154] Figure 14 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0155] like Figure 14 As shown, the light-emitting device 600 of the sixth embodiment includes a first light source 10x, a second light source 10y, a first optical component 21, a second optical component 22, a third optical component 23, a fourth optical component 24, a first diffusion fiber 31, a second diffusion fiber 32, a first condensing lens 41, a second condensing lens 42, a third condensing lens 43, and a fourth condensing lens 44.

[0156] (First and second light sources)

[0157] The first light source 10x irradiates the laser LTx. The first light source 10x includes a first light source section 11a, a second light source section 11b, a third light source section 11c, a first collimating lens 12a, a second collimating lens 12b, a third collimating lens 12c, a first dichroic mirror 13a, and a second dichroic mirror 13b. The components included in the first light source 10x are substantially the same as those in the light source 10 described above, so their description is omitted.

[0158] The second light source 10y irradiates the laser LTy. The second light source 10y includes a fourth light source section 11d, a fifth light source section 11e, a sixth light source section 11f, a fourth collimating lens 12d, a fifth collimating lens 12e, a sixth collimating lens 12f, a third dichroic mirror 13c, and a fourth dichroic mirror 13d.

[0159] The fourth light source section 11d emits a fourth laser LT4. The fourth laser LT4 has a fourth peak wavelength. The fourth laser LT4 is, for example, a blue laser. The fourth peak wavelength is, for example, 400 nm or more and less than 500 nm. The fourth peak wavelength may be the same as or different from the first peak wavelength. Preferably, the fourth peak wavelength is different from the first peak wavelength. When the fourth peak wavelength is different from the first peak wavelength, using a first dichroic mirror 13a and a second dichroic mirror 13b that transmits the first laser LT1 and reflects the fourth laser LT4, and using a third dichroic mirror 13c and a fourth dichroic mirror 13d that transmit the fourth laser LT4 and reflect the first laser LT1, COD generation can be reduced in the same way as the light-emitting device 600B of the second variation of the sixth embodiment described later, with a simple structure. The fourth laser LT4 may also be a green laser or a red laser.

[0160] The fifth light source section 11e emits a fifth laser LT5. The fifth laser LT5 has a fifth peak wavelength. This fifth peak wavelength is different from the fourth peak wavelength. The fifth laser LT5 is, for example, a green laser. The fifth peak wavelength is, for example, 500 nm or more and less than 600 nm. The fifth peak wavelength may be the same as or different from the second peak wavelength. The fifth light source section 11e is, for example, a laser diode. Preferably, the fifth peak wavelength is different from the second peak wavelength. When the fifth peak wavelength is different from the second peak wavelength, using a second dichroic mirror 13b that transmits the second laser LT2 and reflects the fifth laser LT5, and using a fourth dichroic mirror 13d that transmits the fifth laser LT5 and reflects the second laser LT2, COD generation can be reduced in the same simple structure as the light-emitting device 600B of the second variation of the sixth embodiment described later. The fifth laser LT5 can also be a blue laser or a red laser.

[0161] The sixth light source section 11f emits a sixth laser LT6. The sixth laser LT6 has a sixth peak wavelength. This sixth peak wavelength differs from both the fourth and fifth peak wavelengths. The sixth laser LT6 is, for example, a red laser. The sixth peak wavelength is, for example, between 600 nm and 700 nm. The sixth peak wavelength may be the same as or different from the third peak wavelength. The sixth light source section 11f is, for example, a laser diode. Preferably, the sixth peak wavelength is different from the third peak wavelength. The sixth laser LT6 may also be a blue laser or a green laser.

[0162] The fourth collimating lens 12d collimates the fourth laser LT4. The fifth collimating lens 12e collimates the fifth laser LT5. The sixth collimating lens 12f collimates the sixth laser LT6.

[0163] The third dichroic mirror 13c allows the fourth laser LT4 to pass through and reflects the fifth laser LT5. The fourth dichroic mirror 13d allows both the fourth laser LT4 and the fifth laser LT5 to pass through and reflects the sixth laser LT6.

[0164] (First to fourth optical components)

[0165] The first optical component 21 splits the laser LTx into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2. The first optical component 21 reflects the first branch laser LTB1 and transmits the second branch laser LTB2. The first optical component 21 is, for example, a beam splitter.

[0166] The second optical component 22 reflects at least a portion of the second branch laser LTB2. In the light-emitting device 600, the second optical component 22 is a reflector that reflects all of the second branch laser LTB2.

[0167] The third optical component 23 branches the laser LTY into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4. The third optical component 23 reflects the third branch laser LTB3 and transmits the fourth branch laser LTB4. The third optical component 23 is, for example, a beam splitter.

[0168] The fourth optical component 24 reflects at least a portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4. In the light-emitting device 600, the fourth optical component 24 is a reflector that reflects all of the fourth branch laser LTB4.

[0169] (First and second diffusion fibers)

[0170] The first diffusing fiber 31 has a first end 31a, a second end 31b, and a first intermediate portion 31c. The first end 31a is located at one end of the first diffusing fiber 31 (the end on the side of the first light source 10x). The second end 31b is located at the other end of the first diffusing fiber 31 (the end on the side of the second light source 10y). The first intermediate portion 31c is located between the first end 31a and the second end 31b. A first branch laser LTB1 reflected by the first optical component 21 is incident on the first end 31a. A fourth branch laser LTB4 reflected by the fourth optical component 24 is incident on the second end 31b.

[0171] The second diffusing fiber 32 has a third end 32a, a fourth end 32b, and a second intermediate portion 32c. The third end 32a is located at one end of the second diffusing fiber 32 (the end on the side of the first light source 10x). The fourth end 32b is located at the other end of the second diffusing fiber 32 (the end on the side of the second light source 10y). The second intermediate portion 32c is located between the third end 32a and the fourth end 32b. The second branch laser LTB2, reflected by the second optical component 22, enters the third end 32a. The third branch laser LTB3, reflected by the third optical component 23, enters the fourth end 32b.

[0172] (First to fourth condenser lenses)

[0173] The first focusing lens 41 focuses the first branch laser LTB1 and directs it into the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The second focusing lens 42 focuses the second branch laser LTB2 and directs it into the third end 32a of the second diffusing fiber 32. The third focusing lens 43 focuses the third branch laser LTB3 and directs it into the fourth end 32b of the second diffusing fiber 32. The fourth focusing lens 44 focuses the fourth branch laser LTB4 and directs it into the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31.

[0174] The first light source 10x irradiates the laser LTx, which is the result of the combination of the first laser LT1, the second laser LT2, and the third laser LT3. The irradiation of the laser LTx from the first light source 10x is substantially the same as the irradiation of the laser LT from the aforementioned light source 10, therefore, its description is omitted. In the light-emitting device 600, the fourth laser LT4 emitted from the fourth light source 11d is collimated by the fourth collimating lens 12d and transmitted through the third dichroic mirror 13c. The fifth laser LT5 emitted from the fifth light source 11e is collimated by the fifth collimating lens 12e and reflected by the third dichroic mirror 13c. The collimated fourth laser LT4 and the collimated fifth laser LT5 are wavelength-combined by the third dichroic mirror 13c. The laser resulting from the combination of the fourth laser LT4 and the fifth laser LT5 is transmitted through the fourth dichroic mirror 13d. The sixth laser LT6 emitted from the sixth light source 11f is collimated by the sixth collimating lens 12f and reflected by the fourth dichroic mirror 13d. The laser LTy, obtained by combining the wavelengths of the fourth laser LT4 and the fifth laser LT5, is then combined with the collimated sixth laser LT6 by the wavelength of the fourth dichroic mirror 13d. Thus, the second light source 10y illuminates the laser LTy, which is the result of combining the wavelengths of the fourth laser LT4, the fifth laser LT5, and the sixth laser LT6. For example, if the fourth laser LT4 is blue, the fifth laser LT5 is green, and the sixth laser LT6 is red, the second light source 10y illuminates the laser LTy, which is the result of combining the wavelengths of the red, green, and blue lasers.

[0175] The laser LTx emitted from the first light source 10x branches into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2 in the first optical component 21. The first branch laser LTB1 is focused by the first condenser lens 41 and enters the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a exits, for example, from the second end 31b. The second branch laser LTB2 is reflected by the second optical component 22, focused by the second condenser lens 42, and enters the third end 32a of the second diffusing fiber 32. The second branch laser LTB2 entering from the third end 32a passes through the second intermediate portion 32c and faces the fourth end 32b. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2 entering from the third end 32a exits, for example, from the fourth end 32b. The laser LTy emitted from the second light source 10y branches into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4 in the third optical component 23. The third branch laser LTB3 is focused by the third condenser lens 43 and directed into the fourth end 32b of the second diffusing fiber 32. The third branch laser LTB3, entering from the fourth end 32b, passes through the second intermediate portion 32c and faces the third end 32a. A portion of the third branch laser LTB3, entering from the fourth end 32b, exits, for example, from the third end 32a. The fourth branch laser LTB4 is reflected by the fourth optical component 24, focused by the fourth condenser lens 44, and directed into the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. The fourth branch laser LTB4, entering from the second end 31b, passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the first end 31a. A portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4, entering from the second end 31b, exits, for example, from the first end 31a.

[0176] Thus, in the light-emitting device 600, the laser LTx emitted from the first light source 10x is branched into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2, which are respectively directed into the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31 and the third end 32a of the second diffusing fiber 32. Similarly, the laser LTy emitted from the second light source 10y is branched into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4, which are respectively directed into the fourth end 32b of the second diffusing fiber 32 and the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. This allows different colors of laser light to be directed into both ends of the first diffusing fiber 31 and the second diffusing fiber 32. Consequently, the first diffusing fiber 31 and the second diffusing fiber 32 can emit light gradually.

[0177] (First variation of the sixth embodiment)

[0178] Figure 15 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the first modified example of the sixth embodiment.

[0179] like Figure 15 As shown, the light-emitting device 600A of the first variant of the sixth embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 600 except that it also includes a first light-receiving element 51 and a second light-receiving element 52.

[0180] Irradiation by laser LTx from the first light source 10x and laser LTy from the second light source 10y is substantially the same as that of the light-emitting device 600, and therefore description is omitted. In the light-emitting device 600A, laser LTx emitted from the first light source 10x branches into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2 in the first optical component 21. The first branch laser LTB1 is focused by the first condenser lens 41 and enters into the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces towards the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a exits from the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 exiting from the second end 31b is reflected by the fourth optical component 24 towards the third optical component 23, and further reflected by the third optical component 23, thereby entering into the second light-receiving element 52. The second branch laser LTB2 is reflected by the second optical component 22, focused by the second condenser lens 42, and enters the third end 32a of the second diffusing fiber 32. The second branch laser LTB2 entering from the third end 32a passes through the second intermediate portion 32c and faces the fourth end 32b. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2 entering from the third end 32a exits from the fourth end 32b. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2 exiting from the fourth end 32b is transmitted through the third optical component 23 and enters the second light-receiving element 52. The laser LTy emitted from the second light source 10y branches into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4 in the third optical component 23. The third branch laser LTB3 is focused by the third condenser lens 43 and enters the fourth end 32b of the second diffusing fiber 32. The third branch laser LTB3 entering from the fourth end 32b passes through the second intermediate portion 32c and faces the third end 32a. A portion of the third branch laser LTB3 entering from the fourth end 32b exits from the third end 32a. A portion of the third branch laser LTB3 emitted from the third end 32a is reflected by the second optical component 22 toward the first optical component 21, and further reflected by the first optical component 21, thus entering the first light-receiving element 51. The fourth branch laser LTB4 is reflected by the fourth optical component 24, focused by the fourth condenser lens 44, and enters the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. The fourth branch laser LTB4 entering from the second end 31b passes through the first intermediate portion 31c toward the first end 31a. A portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4 entering from the second end 31b exits from the first end 31a. A portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4 exiting from the first end 31a transmits through the first optical component 21 and enters the first light-receiving element 51.

[0181] (First and second light-receiving elements)

[0182] The first light-receiving element 51 detects the presence or absence of a portion of the third branch laser LTB3 and a portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4, and the intensity of the portion of the third branch laser LTB3 and the portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4. The second light-receiving element 52 detects the presence or absence of a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2, and the intensity of the portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and the portion of the second branch laser LTB2. The first light-receiving element 51 and the second light-receiving element 52 are, for example, photodiodes or phototransistors. The first light-receiving element 51 and the second light-receiving element 52 output the detection results to a control device (not shown). The control device controls the operation of the first light source 10x and the second light source 10y based on the detection results. For example, if a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 do not enter the second light-receiving element 52, the control device stops the emission of laser LTx from the first light source 10x. For example, if a portion of the third branch laser LTB3 and a portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4 fail to enter the first light-receiving element 51, the control device may stop the emission of laser LTy from the second light source 10y. For example, if the detection result of either the first light-receiving element 51 or the second light-receiving element 52 changes, the control device may consider the possibility of laser leakage due to a break in the diffusion fiber and therefore stop the emission of lasers LTx and LTy.

[0183] In this way, in the light-emitting device 600A, a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 are directed into the second light-receiving element 52, and a portion of the third branch laser LTB3 and a portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4 are directed into the first light-receiving element 51, thereby enabling the detection of malfunctions in the light-emitting device 600A. Furthermore, in the event of a malfunction in the light-emitting device 600A, the emission of laser LTx from the first light source 10x and laser LTy from the second light source 10y is stopped, thereby improving the safety of the light-emitting device 600A.

[0184] (Second variation of the sixth embodiment)

[0185] Figure 16 This is an explanatory diagram showing the light-emitting device of the second variation of the sixth embodiment.

[0186] like Figure 16 As shown, the light-emitting device 600B of the second variation of the sixth embodiment is substantially the same as the light-emitting device 600 except that the first light source 10x and the second light source 10y are different.

[0187] In the light-emitting device 600B, the first peak wavelength of the first laser LT1 emitted from the first light source section 11a of the first light source 10x is different from the fourth peak wavelength of the fourth laser LT4 emitted from the fourth light source section 11d of the second light source 10y. The first light source 10x also has a fifth dichroic mirror 13e. The fifth dichroic mirror 13e transmits the first laser LT1 with the first peak wavelength and reflects the fourth laser LT4 with the fourth peak wavelength. The second light source 10y also has a sixth dichroic mirror 13f. The sixth dichroic mirror 13f transmits the fourth laser LT4 with the fourth peak wavelength and reflects the first laser LT1 with the first peak wavelength.

[0188] Irradiation by laser LTx from the first light source 10x and laser LTy from the second light source 10y is substantially the same as that of the light-emitting device 600, and therefore description is omitted. In the light-emitting device 600B, the first laser LT1 emitted from the first light source section 11a of the first light source 10x is transmitted through the fifth dichroic mirror 13e before being transmitted through the first dichroic mirror 13a. Furthermore, in the light-emitting device 600B, the fourth laser LT4 emitted from the fourth light source section 11d of the second light source 10y is transmitted through the sixth dichroic mirror 13f before being transmitted through the third dichroic mirror 13c.

[0189] The laser LTx emitted from the first light source 10x branches into a first branch laser LTB1 and a second branch laser LTB2 in the first optical component 21. The first branch laser LTB1 is focused by the first condenser lens 41 and enters the first end 31a of the first diffusing fiber 31. The first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 entering from the first end 31a exits from the second end 31b. A portion of the first branch laser LTB1 exiting from the second end 31b is reflected by the fourth optical component 24 and transmitted through the third optical component 23, thus facing the second light source 10y. The second branch laser LTB2 is reflected by the second optical component 22, focused by the second condenser lens 42, and enters the third end 32a of the second diffusing fiber 32. The second branch laser LTB2 entering from the third end 32a passes through the second intermediate portion 32c and faces the fourth end 32b. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2 entering from the third end 32a exits from the fourth end 32b. A portion of the second branch laser LTB2 emitted from the fourth end 32b is reflected by the third optical component 23, thus heading towards the second light source 10y. The laser LTY emitted from the second light source 10y branches into a third branch laser LTB3 and a fourth branch laser LTB4 in the third optical component 23. The third branch laser LTB3 is focused by the third condenser lens 43 and enters the fourth end 32b of the second diffusing fiber 32. The third branch laser LTB3 entering from the fourth end 32b passes through the second intermediate portion 32c and heads towards the third end 32a. A portion of the third branch laser LTB3 entering from the fourth end 32b exits from the third end 32a. A portion of the third branch laser LTB3 exiting from the third end 32a is reflected by the second optical component 22 and transmitted through the first optical component 21, thus heading towards the first light source 10x. The fourth branch laser LTB4 is reflected by the fourth optical component 24, focused by the fourth condenser lens 44, and enters the second end 31b of the first diffusing fiber 31. The fourth branch laser LTB4, which enters from the second end 31b, passes through the first intermediate portion 31c and faces the first end 31a. A portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4, which enters from the second end 31b, exits from the first end 31a. A portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4, which exits from the first end 31a, is reflected by the first optical component 21 and thus faces the first light source 10x. In this way, a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 sometimes face the second light source 10y from the third optical component 23. In addition, a portion of the third branch laser LTB3 and a portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4 sometimes face the first light source 10x from the first optical component 21.

[0190] A fifth dichroic mirror 13e is disposed between the first light source unit 11a and the first optical component 21. More specifically, the fifth dichroic mirror 13e is disposed between the first light source unit 11a and the first dichroic mirror 13a. As described above, the fifth dichroic mirror 13e transmits the first laser LT1 with a first peak wavelength and reflects the fourth laser LT4 with a fourth peak wavelength. This blocks the component of the fourth laser LT4 with a fourth peak wavelength from a portion of the third branch laser LTB3 and a portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4 emanating from the first optical component 21 toward the first light source unit 11a. The first laser LT1 with a first peak wavelength irradiated from the first light source unit 11a is transmitted through the fifth dichroic mirror 13e.

[0191] A sixth dichroic mirror 13f is disposed between the fourth light source unit 11d and the third optical component 23. More specifically, the sixth dichroic mirror 13f is disposed between the fourth light source unit 11d and the third dichroic mirror 13c. As described above, the sixth dichroic mirror 13f transmits the fourth laser LT4 with a fourth peak wavelength and reflects the first laser LT1 with a first peak wavelength. This blocks the first laser LT1 component with a first peak wavelength from a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 emanating from the third optical component 23 toward the fourth light source unit 11d. The fourth laser LT4 with a fourth peak wavelength irradiated from the fourth light source unit 11d is transmitted through the sixth dichroic mirror 13f.

[0192] Thus, the light-emitting device 600B also includes a fifth dichroic mirror 13e disposed between the first light source unit 11a and the first optical component 21, thereby reducing COD generation caused by a portion of the third branch laser LTB3 and a portion of the fourth branch laser LTB4 reaching the first light source 10x. Additionally, a sixth dichroic mirror 13f disposed between the fourth light source unit 11d and the third optical component 23 is also included, thereby reducing COD generation caused by a portion of the first branch laser LTB1 and a portion of the second branch laser LTB2 reaching the second light source 10y. This effect is particularly significant when the first laser LT1 and the fourth laser LT4 are red lasers, which are prone to COD generation.

[0193] It should be noted that the first light source 10x may also include a seventh dichroic mirror that transmits the second laser LT2 and reflects the fifth laser LT5. The seventh dichroic mirror is, for example, disposed between the second light source 11b and the first optical component 21. More specifically, the seventh dichroic mirror is, for example, disposed between the second light source 11b and the first dichroic mirror 13a.

[0194] Additionally, the second light source 10y may also include an eighth dichroic mirror that transmits the fifth laser LT5 and reflects the second laser LT2. The eighth dichroic mirror is, for example, disposed between the fifth light source unit 11e and the third optical component 23. More specifically, the eighth dichroic mirror is, for example, disposed between the fifth light source unit 11e and the third dichroic mirror 13c.

[0195] Additionally, the first light source 10x may also include a ninth dichroic mirror that transmits the third laser LT3 and reflects the sixth laser LT6. The ninth dichroic mirror is, for example, disposed between the third light source 11c and the first optical component 21. More specifically, the ninth dichroic mirror is, for example, disposed between the third light source 11c and the second dichroic mirror 13b.

[0196] Additionally, the second light source 10y may also have a decanter that transmits the sixth laser LT6 and reflects the third laser LT3. The decanter may be disposed, for example, between the sixth light source 11f and the third optical component 23. More specifically, the decanter may be disposed, for example, between the sixth light source 11f and the fourth dichroic mirror 13d.

[0197] <Vehicles>

[0198] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of a vehicle equipped with a light-emitting device according to an embodiment.

[0199] Figure 18 This is an explanatory diagram showing a taillight equipped with a light-emitting device according to an embodiment.

[0200] like Figure 17 As shown, the vehicle 900 of the embodiment includes a body 910 and a light-emitting device 100.

[0201] The light-emitting device 100 is mounted on the vehicle body 910. In the vehicle 900, the frame 80 of the light-emitting device 100 is disposed at the front of the vehicle body 910. The first diffusion fiber 31 and the second diffusion fiber 32 of the light-emitting device 100 are disposed from the frame 80 along the front surface and side of the vehicle body 910.

[0202] like Figure 18 As shown, the light-emitting device 100 can also be installed in the taillight 911 located at the rear of the vehicle body 910. A first diffuser fiber 31 is disposed in the taillight 911.

[0203] In this way, by installing the light-emitting device 100 on the body 910 and the taillight 911, the design of the vehicle 900 can be improved.

[0204] The diffused optical fiber can also be used for the purposes described in 5.15 of UN R48 by emitting light in the colors specified in 2.29–2.32 of UN R48 (Regulation No. 48 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations). Additionally, the diffused optical fiber can be used as a marker light for ADS (Automated Driving System) by emitting light in the colors specified in 6.2.1 of SAE J3134 201905.

[0205] It should be noted that in the above embodiments, the transmitted laser and the reflected laser can be reversed by the dichroic mirror, optical components, polarizing beam combiner, polarizing components, etc.

[0206] The implementation method may also include the following structure.

[0207] (Structure 1)

[0208] A light-emitting device includes: a light source that irradiates a laser; a first optical component that branches the laser into a first branch laser and a second branch laser, reflects the first branch laser, and transmits the second branch laser; and a first diffusion fiber having a first end into which at least a portion of the first branch laser reflected by the first optical component enters and a second end into which at least a portion of the second branch laser enters.

[0209] (Structure 2)

[0210] According to the light-emitting device of structure 1, it further includes a second optical component that reflects at least a portion of the second branch laser, and the second branch laser reflected by the second optical component is directed toward the second end.

[0211] (Structure 3)

[0212] According to structure 1 or 2, the light source has a first light source section and a second light source section, and the light source irradiates the laser obtained by combining a first laser emitted from the first light source section and a second laser emitted from the second light source section.

[0213] (Structure 4)

[0214] According to the light-emitting device of structure 3, the first laser has a first peak wavelength, and the second laser has a second peak wavelength that is different from the first peak wavelength.

[0215] (Structure 5)

[0216] According to the light-emitting device described in structure 4, the light source further comprises a third light source section, which emits a third laser having a third peak wavelength different from the first peak wavelength and the second peak wavelength. The first laser is a blue laser, the second laser is a green laser, and the third laser is a red laser. The light source irradiates the laser obtained by combining the wavelengths of the red laser, the green laser, and the blue laser.

[0217] (Structure 6)

[0218] The light-emitting device according to any one of structures 2 to 5 further includes a light-receiving element, wherein the second optical component branches the second branch laser into a third branch laser and a fourth branch laser, reflects the third branch laser, transmits the fourth branch laser, and the fourth branch laser is incident on the light-receiving element.

[0219] (Structure 7)

[0220] The light-emitting device according to any one of structures 2 to 5 further comprises a light-receiving element, wherein a portion of the first branch laser light that enters from the first end and exits from the second end and is reflected by the second optical component and reflected by the first optical component, and a portion of the second branch laser light that enters from the second end and exits from the first end and is transmitted through the first optical component enters the light-receiving element.

[0221] (Structure 8)

[0222] The light-emitting device according to any one of structures 1 to 7 further comprises a polarizing component disposed between the light source and the first optical component.

[0223] (Structure 9)

[0224] According to any one of structures 2 to 8, the light-emitting device further comprises: a second optical component that branches the second branch laser into a third branch laser and a fourth branch laser, reflects the third branch laser, and transmits the fourth branch laser; a third optical component that branches the fourth branch laser into a fifth branch laser and a sixth branch laser, reflects the fifth branch laser, and transmits the sixth branch laser; a fourth optical component that reflects at least a portion of the sixth branch laser; and a second diffusion fiber having a third end into which the fifth branch laser reflected by the third optical component enters and a fourth end into which the sixth branch laser reflected by the fourth optical component enters.

[0225] (Structure 10)

[0226] According to the light-emitting device described in structure 5, the first light source unit has an S-polarized first light source unit that emits S-polarized blue laser light and a P-polarized first light source unit that emits P-polarized blue laser light; the second light source unit has an S-polarized second light source unit that emits S-polarized green laser light and a P-polarized second light source unit that emits P-polarized green laser light; the third light source unit has an S-polarized third light source unit that emits S-polarized red laser light and a P-polarized third light source unit that emits P-polarized red laser light; the light source irradiates the laser light obtained by combining the wavelengths of the S-polarized red laser light and the P-polarized red laser light after polarization, the green laser light obtained by combining the wavelengths of the S-polarized green laser light and the P-polarized green laser light after polarization, and the blue laser light obtained by combining the wavelengths of the S-polarized blue laser light and the P-polarized blue laser light after polarization.

[0227] (Structure 11)

[0228] According to the light-emitting device described in structure 3, the first light source unit has a fourth light source unit, a fifth light source unit, and a first polarizing and combining component, which polarizes and combines the laser light emitted from the fourth light source unit and the laser light emitted from the fifth light source unit and emits it. The second light source unit has a sixth light source unit, a seventh light source unit, and a second polarizing and combining component, which polarizes and combines the laser light emitted from the sixth light source unit and the laser light emitted from the seventh light source unit and emits it. The light source irradiates the laser light after the wavelengths of the laser light emitted from the first light source unit and the laser light emitted from the second light source unit are combined.

[0229] (Structure 12)

[0230] According to the light-emitting device described in structure 5, the first light source unit has an S-polarized first light source unit that emits S-polarized blue laser light and a P-polarized first light source unit that emits P-polarized blue laser light; the second light source unit has an S-polarized second light source unit that emits S-polarized green laser light and a P-polarized second light source unit that emits P-polarized green laser light; the third light source unit has an S-polarized third light source unit that emits S-polarized red laser light and a P-polarized third light source unit that emits P-polarized red laser light; the light source irradiates the laser light obtained by wavelength combination of the P-polarized red laser light, the P-polarized green laser light, and the P-polarized blue laser light, and the laser light obtained by wavelength combination of the S-polarized red laser light, the S-polarized green laser light, and the S-polarized blue laser light, and the laser light obtained by wavelength combination of the S-polarized red laser light, the S-polarized green laser light, and the S-polarized blue laser light.

[0231] (Structure 13)

[0232] According to the light-emitting device described in structure 3, the light source further includes a first polarizing and combining component. The first light source has a fourth light source and a sixth light source, and laser wavelengths emitted from the fourth light source and laser wavelengths emitted from the sixth light source are combined and emitted toward the first polarizing and combining component. The second light source has a fifth light source and a seventh light source, and laser wavelengths emitted from the fifth light source and laser wavelengths emitted from the seventh light source are combined and emitted toward the first polarizing and combining component. The light source irradiates the laser after polarization and combining of laser wavelengths emitted from the first light source and laser wavelengths emitted from the second light source.

[0233] (Structure 14)

[0234] According to any one of structures 2 to 13, the first end has a first incident surface into which the first branch laser is incident, the second end has a second incident surface into which the second branch laser is incident, and the distance between the center of the first incident surface and the center of the second incident surface is more than 1 mm and less than 100 mm.

[0235] (Structure 15)

[0236] According to any one of structures 2 to 14, the first end has a first incident surface into which the first branch laser is incident, and the second end has a second incident surface into which the second branch laser is incident, and the first incident surface and the second incident surface are arranged in the same direction.

[0237] (Structure 16)

[0238] A vehicle comprising: a body; and a light-emitting device mounted on said body according to any one of structures 1 to 15.

[0239] The above-described embodiments are examples embodying the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. For example, the addition, deletion, or modification of several constituent elements or processes in the above-described embodiments are also included in the present invention. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be combined with each other for implementation.

[0240] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0241] 10: Light source

[0242] 10x: First light source

[0243] 10y: Second light source

[0244] 11a: First Light Source Section

[0245] 11as: First source section for S-polarized light

[0246] 11ap: First source section for P-polarized light

[0247] 11b: Second Light Source Section

[0248] 11bs: Second source section for S-polarized light

[0249] 11bp: Second source section for P-polarized light

[0250] 11c: Third Light Source Section

[0251] 11cs: Third source of S-polarized light

[0252] 11cp: P-polarized light third source section

[0253] 11d: Fourth Light Source Section

[0254] 11e: Fifth Light Source Section

[0255] 11f: Sixth Light Source Section

[0256] 12a: First collimating lens

[0257] 12b: Second collimating lens

[0258] 12c: Third collimating lens

[0259] 13a: First dichroic mirror

[0260] 13b: Second dichroic mirror

[0261] 13c: Third dichroic mirror

[0262] 13D: Fourth Dichroic Mirror

[0263] 13e: Fifth Dichroic Mirror

[0264] 13f: Sixth Dichroic Mirror

[0265] 14a: First polarizing beam combining component

[0266] 14b: Second polarizer beam combining component

[0267] 14c: Third polarizer / wave combiner

[0268] 21: First optical component

[0269] 22: Second optical component

[0270] 23: Third optical component

[0271] 24: Fourth optical component

[0272] 31: First Diffusion Fiber

[0273] 31a: First end

[0274] 31a1: First incident surface

[0275] 31b: Second end

[0276] 31b1: Second incident surface

[0277] 31c: First intermediate part

[0278] 32: Second Diffusion Fiber

[0279] 32a: Third end

[0280] 32a1: Third incident surface

[0281] 32b: Fourth end

[0282] 32b1: Fourth incident surface

[0283] 32c: Second intermediate part

[0284] 41: First condenser lens

[0285] 42: Second condenser lens

[0286] 43: Third Condensing Lens

[0287] 44: Fourth Condensing Lens

[0288] 50: Light receiving element

[0289] 51: First light-receiving element

[0290] 52: Second light-receiving element

[0291] 60: Polarizing component

[0292] 80: Frame

[0293] 100, 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 100F, 100G, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 600A, 600B: Light-emitting devices

[0294] 900: Vehicles

[0295] 910: Body

[0296] 911: Taillights

[0297] LCa: First combined laser

[0298] LCb: Second-wave combined laser

[0299] LT, LTx, LTY: Lasers

[0300] LT1: First Laser

[0301] LT1s: The first laser beam of S-polarized light

[0302] LT1p: The first laser beam of p-polarized light

[0303] LT2: Second laser

[0304] LT2s: The second laser beam of S-polarized light

[0305] LT2p: The second laser beam of p-polarized light

[0306] LT3: Third Laser

[0307] LT3s: The third laser beam of S-polarized light

[0308] LT3p: The third laser of p-polarized light

[0309] LT4: Fourth Laser

[0310] LT5: The Fifth Laser

[0311] LT6: The Sixth Laser

[0312] LTB1: First Branch Laser

[0313] LTB2: Second Branch Laser

[0314] LTB3: Third Branch Laser

[0315] LTB4: Fourth Branch Laser

[0316] LTB5: Fifth Branch Laser

[0317] LTB6: Sixth Branch Laser.

Claims

1. A light-emitting device, characterized in that, have: The light source that illuminates the laser; A first optical component splits the laser into a first branch laser and a second branch laser, reflects the first branch laser, and transmits the second branch laser. A first diffusing fiber has a first end into which at least a portion of the first branch laser reflected by the first optical component enters and a second end into which at least a portion of the second branch laser enters.

2. The light-emitting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a second optical component that reflects at least a portion of the second branch laser. The second branch laser, reflected by the second optical component, is directed toward the second end.

3. The light-emitting device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The light source has a first light source section and a second light source section. The light source illuminates the laser formed by combining a first laser emitted from the first light source and a second laser emitted from the second light source.

4. The light-emitting device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first laser has a first peak wavelength. The second laser has a second peak wavelength that is different from the first peak wavelength.

5. The light-emitting device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The light source also includes a third light source section, which emits a third laser with a third peak wavelength that is different from both the first and second peak wavelengths. The first laser is a blue laser. The second laser is a green laser. The third laser is a red laser. The light source illuminates the laser formed by combining the wavelengths of the red laser, the green laser, and the blue laser.

6. The light-emitting device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, It also has a light-receiving element. The second optical component splits the second branch laser into a third branch laser and a fourth branch laser, reflects the third branch laser, and transmits the fourth branch laser. The fourth branch of the laser beam is directed into the light-receiving element.

7. The light-emitting device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, It also has a light-receiving element. A portion of the first branch laser, which enters from the first end and exits from the second end and is reflected by the second optical component and by the first optical component, and a portion of the second branch laser, which enters from the second end and exits from the first end and is transmitted through the first optical component, enters the light-receiving element.

8. The light-emitting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, It also includes a polarizing component disposed between the light source and the first optical component.

9. The light-emitting device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that, The second optical component splits the second branch laser into a third branch laser and a fourth branch laser, reflects the third branch laser, and transmits the fourth branch laser. The light-emitting device also includes: The third optical component splits the fourth branch laser into a fifth branch laser and a sixth branch laser, reflects the fifth branch laser, and transmits the sixth branch laser. A fourth optical component reflects at least a portion of the sixth branch laser; The second diffusion fiber has a third end into which the fifth branch laser reflected by the third optical component enters and a fourth end into which the sixth branch laser reflected by the fourth optical component enters.

10. The light-emitting device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first light source unit includes an S-polarized light first light source unit that emits S-polarized blue laser light and a P-polarized light first light source unit that emits P-polarized blue laser light. The second light source unit includes an S-polarized light second light source unit that emits S-polarized green laser light and a P-polarized light second light source unit that emits P-polarized green laser light. The third light source unit includes an S-polarized third light source unit that emits red laser light with S-polarization and a P-polarized third light source unit that emits red laser light with P-polarization. The light source illuminates the combined red laser (resulting from the polarization of red S-polarized light and red P-polarized light), the combined green laser (resulting from the polarization of green S-polarized light and green P-polarized light), and the combined blue laser (resulting from the polarization of blue S-polarized light and blue P-polarized light).

11. The light-emitting device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first light source unit includes a fourth light source unit, a fifth light source unit, and a first polarizing and combining component, which polarizes and combines the laser light emitted from the fourth light source unit and the laser light emitted from the fifth light source unit, and then emits them. The second light source unit includes a sixth light source unit, a seventh light source unit, and a second polarizing and combining component, which polarizes and combines the laser light emitted from the sixth light source unit and the laser light emitted from the seventh light source unit, and then emits them. The light source irradiates the laser obtained by combining the wavelengths of the laser emitted from the first light source and the laser emitted from the second light source.

12. The light-emitting device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first light source unit includes an S-polarized light first light source unit that emits S-polarized blue laser light and a P-polarized light first light source unit that emits P-polarized blue laser light. The second light source unit includes an S-polarized light second light source unit that emits S-polarized green laser light and a P-polarized light second light source unit that emits P-polarized green laser light. The third light source unit includes an S-polarized third light source unit that emits red laser light with S-polarization and a P-polarized third light source unit that emits red laser light with P-polarization. The light source illuminates the laser formed by combining the red laser of P-polarized light, the green laser of P-polarized light, and the blue laser of P-polarized light by wavelength combination into a first combined laser, and the red laser of S-polarized light, the green laser of S-polarized light, and the blue laser of S-polarized light by wavelength combination into a second combined laser.

13. The light-emitting device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The light source also has a first polarizing and beam combining component. The first light source unit has a fourth light source unit and a sixth light source unit, and combines the wavelengths of the laser emitted from the fourth light source unit and the laser emitted from the sixth light source unit, and then emits them toward the first polarizing beam combining component. The second light source unit has a fifth light source unit and a seventh light source unit, and combines the wavelengths of the laser emitted from the fifth light source unit and the laser emitted from the seventh light source unit, and then emits them toward the first polarizing beam combining component. The light source illuminates the laser beam resulting from the combined polarization of the laser emitted from the first light source and the laser emitted from the second light source.

14. The light-emitting device according to any one of claims 2 to 13, characterized in that, The first end has a first incident surface for the first branch laser to enter. The second end has a second incident surface for the second branch laser to enter. The distance between the center of the first incident surface and the center of the second incident surface is more than 1 mm and less than 100 mm.

15. The light-emitting device according to any one of claims 2 to 14, characterized in that, The first end has a first incident surface for the first branch laser to enter. The second end has a second incident surface for the second branch laser to enter. The first incident surface and the second incident surface are configured to face the same direction.

16. A vehicle, characterized in that, have: Body; The light-emitting device as described in any one of claims 1 to 15 is installed on the vehicle body.

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