Vehicle lighting device and vehicle lamp

Abstract

To provide a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp capable of adjusting a value of a current flowing through a light-emitting element in accordance with a variation in forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element when a control element is provided.SOLUTION: A vehicle lighting device according to an embodiment includes: a socket; a substrate provided on one end side of the socket; at least one light-emitting element provided on the substrate; a control element provided on the substrate, and having a current driver having an output side electrically connected to the light-emitting element and capable of generating an output current to be flowed through the light-emitting element, and a current setting circuit having an output side electrically connected to the current driver and capable of generating a set current; and a resistor electrically connected to an input side of the current setting circuit and capable of adjusting a resistance value in accordance with forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element. The current setting circuit adjusts the set current on the basis of the adjusted resistance value of the resistor. The current driver adjusts the output current on the basis of the adjusted set current.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art From the standpoint of energy saving and long life, vehicle lighting devices equipped with light emitting elements such as light emitting diodes are becoming more and more popular, replacing vehicle lighting devices equipped with lamps having filaments.

[0003] Here, the vehicle lighting device uses a battery as a power source, but the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device fluctuates. For example, in the case of a vehicle lighting device for a general automobile, the standard operating voltage (rated voltage) is about 13.5V, but the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device may drop to about 6V.

[0004] When the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device is reduced, the total luminous flux of the light irradiated from the vehicle lighting device is reduced, and there is a risk that the total luminous flux will fall below a specified value. Therefore, a technique has been proposed for changing the number of light-emitting elements to be turned on based on the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device.

[0005] Furthermore, when a current flows through a light-emitting element, the light-emitting element emits light and generates heat. In the case of a vehicle lighting device, the temperature of the atmosphere in which the vehicle lighting device is installed may reach approximately 85°C. This may cause the temperature of the light-emitting element to become too high and exceed the maximum junction temperature. Therefore, a technology has been proposed that performs temperature derating based on the ambient temperature of the light-emitting element.

[0006] In recent years, vehicle lighting devices have been proposed that include a control element that performs at least one of changing the number of light-emitting elements to be turned on and temperature derating.

[0007] In such a control element, the value of the current flowing through the light emitting element is set based on the resistance value of the resistor electrically connected to the control element. However, since there is variation in the forward voltage characteristics of the light emitting element, if the value of the current flowing through the light emitting element is simply set based on the resistance value of the resistor, there is a risk that the variation in the total luminous flux of the light irradiated from the vehicle lighting device will become large.

[0008] Therefore, when a control element is provided, it is desirable to develop a technique that can adjust the value of the current flowing through the light-emitting element in accordance with the variation in the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7018124 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp that, when a control element is provided, can adjust the value of the current flowing to the light-emitting element in accordance with variations in the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] A vehicle lighting device according to an embodiment includes a socket, a substrate provided on one end of the socket, at least one light-emitting element provided on the substrate, a control element provided on the substrate, the control element having a current driver, the output side of which is electrically connected to the light-emitting element and capable of generating an output current to be passed through the light-emitting element, and a current setting circuit, the output side of which is electrically connected to the current driver and capable of generating a set current, and a resistor, the control element being electrically connected to an input side of the current setting circuit and capable of adjusting a resistance value according to a forward voltage characteristic of the light-emitting element. The current setting circuit adjusts the set current based on the adjusted resistance value of the resistor. The current driver adjusts the output current based on the adjusted set current. Effect of the Invention

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp that, when a control element is provided, can adjust the value of the current flowing to the light-emitting element in accordance with variations in the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a vehicle lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lighting device taken along line AA in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram illustrating a light emission circuit. [Figure 4] 1A to 1C are schematic plan views for illustrating the arrangement of a frame portion, control elements, and resistors. [Diagram 5] 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view illustrating a vehicle lamp. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0015] (Vehicle lighting device) The vehicle lighting device 1 according to the present embodiment can be installed in, for example, an automobile or a railcar. Examples of the vehicle lighting device 1 installed in an automobile include a front combination light (for example, a combination of a daytime running lamp (DRL), a position lamp, a turn signal lamp, etc.) and a rear combination light (for example, a combination of a stop lamp, a tail lamp, a turn signal lamp, a back lamp, a fog lamp, etc.). However, the uses of the vehicle lighting device 1 are not limited to these.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a vehicle lighting device 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lighting device 1 taken along line AA in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a vehicle lighting device 1 includes a socket 10, a light emitting module 20, a power supply unit 30, and a heat transfer unit 40, for example.

[0017] The socket 10 has, for example, a mounting portion 11, a bayonet 12, a flange 13, heat dissipation fins 14, and a connector holder 15. The mounting portion 11 is provided on the surface of the flange 13 opposite to the side on which the heat dissipation fins 14 are provided. The outer shape of the mounting portion 11 may be columnar. The outer shape of the mounting portion 11 is, for example, cylindrical. The mounting portion 11 has, for example, a recess 11a that opens at the end opposite to the flange 13 side.

[0018] The bayonet 12 is provided, for example, on a side surface of the mounting portion 11. The bayonet 12 protrudes toward the outside of the vehicle lighting device 1. The bayonet 12 faces the flange 13. A plurality of bayonets 12 may be provided. The bayonet 12 is used when mounting the vehicle lighting device 1, for example, to a housing 101 of a vehicle lamp 100 described later. The bayonet 12 may be used for a twist lock.

[0019] The flange 13 has a plate shape. The flange 13 has, for example, a substantially circular plate shape. A side surface of the flange 13 is located outward of the vehicle lighting device 1 from a side surface of the bayonet 12.

[0020] The heat dissipating fin 14 is provided on the side of the flange 13 opposite to the mounting portion 11. At least one heat dissipating fin 14 can be provided. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the socket 10 can be provided with a plurality of heat dissipating fins 14. The plurality of heat dissipating fins 14 can be arranged side by side in a predetermined direction. The heat dissipating fin 14 has, for example, a plate or cylinder shape.

[0021] The connector holder 15 is provided on the opposite side of the flange 13 to the mounting portion 11. The connector holder 15 can be provided alongside the heat dissipation fins 14. The connector holder 15 has a cylindrical shape, and a connector 105 having a seal member 105a therein is inserted into the connector holder 15.

[0022] The socket 10 has a function of holding the light-emitting module 20 and the power supply unit 30, and a function of transferring heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 to the outside. Therefore, the socket 10 is preferably made of a material with high thermal conductivity. The socket 10 can be made of a metal such as an aluminum alloy, for example.

[0023] The socket 10 can also be made of, for example, a highly thermally conductive resin. The highly thermally conductive resin is, for example, a resin such as PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) or Nylon mixed with a filler using carbon or aluminum oxide. If the socket 10 contains a highly thermally conductive resin, the heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be efficiently dissipated. Also, the weight of the socket 10 can be reduced.

[0024] The power supply unit 30 includes, for example, a plurality of power supply terminals 31 and a holding unit 32 . The power supply terminals 31 may be rod-shaped. One end of each of the power supply terminals 31 protrudes from the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. One end of each of the power supply terminals 31 is soldered to the wiring pattern 21a provided on the substrate 21. The other end of each of the power supply terminals 31 is exposed inside the hole of the connector holder 15. The connector 105 is fitted to the power supply terminals 31 exposed inside the hole of the connector holder 15. The power supply terminals 31 are formed of a metal such as a copper alloy. The shape, arrangement, material, and the like of the power supply terminals 31 are not limited to those exemplified, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0025] When the socket 10 is formed using, for example, a highly thermally conductive resin containing a filler using carbon, or a metal, the socket 10 becomes conductive. Therefore, the holding portion 32 is provided to insulate the multiple power supply terminals 31 from the conductive socket 10. Note that when the socket 10 is formed using an insulating highly thermally conductive resin (for example, a highly thermally conductive resin containing a filler using aluminum oxide), the holding portion 32 can be omitted. For example, the holding portion 32 can be pressed into a hole provided in the socket 10 or adhered to the inner wall of the hole.

[0026] The heat transfer unit 40 is provided between the socket 10 and the light emitting module 20 (substrate 21). As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the heat transfer unit 40 is provided, for example, inside the recess 11b that opens to the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. For example, the heat transfer unit 40 can be adhered to the inner wall of the recess 11b, attached inside the recess 11b via heat conductive grease (heat dissipation grease), or embedded inside the recess 11b by insert molding. The heat transfer unit 40 is formed from a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat transfer unit 40 can be formed from a metal such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, copper, or a copper alloy. Note that when the socket 10 is formed from a metal or when the heat generated in the light emitting module 20 is small, the heat transfer unit 40 can be omitted.

[0027] The light emitting module 20 includes, for example, a substrate 21, a light emitting element 22, a frame portion 23, a sealing portion 24, and a circuit element 25.

[0028] The substrate 21 is provided on one end side of the socket 10. The substrate 21 can be adhered, for example, onto the heat transfer section 40. When the heat transfer section 40 is omitted, the substrate 21 can be adhered, for example, to the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. The adhesive for adhering the substrate 21 is preferably an adhesive with high thermal conductivity. For example, the adhesive can be an adhesive mixed with a filler using a conductive material or an inorganic material.

[0029] The substrate 21 has a plate shape. The planar shape of the substrate 21 (the shape when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1) is, for example, substantially rectangular. The substrate 21 can be formed from, for example, an inorganic material such as ceramics (for example, aluminum oxide or aluminum nitride), or an organic material such as paper phenol or glass epoxy. The substrate 21 may also be a metal core substrate in which the surface of a metal plate is covered with an insulating material. The substrate 21 may also have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure.

[0030] Moreover, a wiring pattern 21a is provided on the surface of the substrate 21. The wiring pattern 21a is formed from, for example, a material containing silver as a main component or a material containing copper as a main component. A covering portion may be provided to cover the wiring pattern 21a. The covering portion may include, for example, a glass material.

[0031] The light-emitting element 22 is provided on the substrate 21 (the surface of the substrate 21 opposite to the socket 10 side). The light-emitting element 22 is electrically connected to the wiring pattern 21a. At least one light-emitting element 22 can be provided. The vehicle lighting device 1 (light-emitting module 20) illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2 is provided with a plurality of light-emitting elements 22. When a plurality of light-emitting elements 22 are provided, the plurality of light-emitting elements 22 can be connected in series.

[0032] The light emitting elements 22 may be, for example, light emitting diodes, organic light emitting diodes, laser diodes, or the like. The light emitting element 22 may be a chip-shaped light emitting element, a surface mount type light emitting element such as a PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) type, or a light emitting element having a lead wire such as a bullet type. The light emitting element 22 illustrated in FIG. 2 is a chip-shaped light emitting element. In this case, in consideration of miniaturization of the light emitting module 20 and thus miniaturization of the vehicle lighting device 1, it is preferable to use a chip-shaped light emitting element. In the following, as an example, a case where the light emitting element 22 is a chip-shaped light emitting element will be described.

[0033] The chip-shaped light-emitting element 22 can be mounted on the wiring pattern 21a by COB (Chip On Board). The chip-shaped light-emitting element 22 may be any of an upper electrode type light-emitting element, a top and bottom electrode type light-emitting element, and a flip chip type light-emitting element.

[0034] The frame portion 23 is provided on the substrate 21. The frame portion 23 is bonded to the substrate 21. The frame portion 23 has a frame shape and surrounds the light emitting element 22. The frame portion 23 is formed, for example, from a thermoplastic resin. The frame portion 23 can have a function of defining the formation range of the sealing portion 24 and a function of a reflector. The frame portion 23 can be omitted. In the case where the frame portion 23 is omitted, for example, a dome-shaped sealing portion 24 is provided on the substrate 21.

[0035] The sealing portion 24 is provided inside the frame portion 23. The sealing portion 24 is provided so as to cover the area surrounded by the frame portion 23. The sealing portion 24 is provided so as to cover the light-emitting element 22. The sealing portion 24 contains a resin having light-transmitting properties. The resin is, for example, a silicone resin. The sealing portion 24 may also contain a phosphor.

[0036] In addition, optical elements and the like can be provided as necessary. Examples of the optical elements include a convex lens, a concave lens, a light guide, etc. The optical elements can be provided on the sealing portion 24, for example.

[0037] The circuit element 25 can be a passive element or an active element used to configure the light-emitting circuit 20a having the light-emitting element 22. The circuit element 25 is provided on the substrate 21. The circuit element 25 is provided, for example, on the periphery of the frame portion 23 and is electrically connected to the wiring pattern 21a. The circuit element 25 is electrically connected to the light-emitting element 22 via the wiring pattern 21a.

[0038] FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram illustrating the light emission circuit 20a. As shown in Fig. 3, the light-emitting circuit 20a has, for example, a light-emitting element 22 and a circuit element 25. The circuit element 25 can be, for example, a protection element 25a, a control element 25b, a positive characteristic thermistor 25c, and a resistor 25d. However, the circuit elements 25 provided in the light-emitting circuit 20a are not limited to those exemplified. For example, the light-emitting circuit 20a can further have a capacitor, a negative characteristic thermistor, an inductor, a surge absorber, a varistor, an integrated circuit, a computing element, and the like, in addition to those described above.

[0039] The protective element 25a is provided, for example, to prevent a reverse voltage from being applied to the light-emitting element 22 and to prevent pulse noise from the reverse direction from being applied to the light-emitting element 22. The protective element 25a is, for example, a diode. The protective element 25a illustrated in FIG. 1 is a surface-mounted diode.

[0040] The control element 25b controls the current (output current Ia) flowing through the light-emitting element 22 in accordance with the ambient temperature of the light-emitting element 22. The control element 25b also changes the number of light-emitting elements 22 to be turned on based on the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device 1. For example, the control element 25b can be an integrated circuit capable of performing temperature derating control and total luminous flux control.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 3, the control element 25b has a VIN terminal, an OUT terminal, an RTH terminal, an ISET terminal, an IR terminal, and a GND terminal. The VIN terminal is electrically connected to a battery mounted on the vehicle via, for example, a protection element 25a. The OUT terminal is electrically connected to, for example, a plurality of light-emitting elements 22 connected in series. In this case, the anode side of the light-emitting element 22 is electrically connected to the OUT terminal. The cathode side of the light-emitting element 22 is electrically connected to the ground of the vehicle, such as the chassis of the vehicle body. In the case of the light-emitting circuit 20a illustrated in FIG. 3, four light-emitting elements 22 connected in series are electrically connected. The RTH terminal is electrically connected to, for example, a resistor 25d. The ISET terminal is electrically connected to, for example, a positive characteristic thermistor 25c. The IR terminal is electrically connected to, for example, a part of the plurality of light-emitting elements 22 connected in series. In the case of the light-emitting circuit 20a illustrated in FIG. 3, two of the four light-emitting elements 22 connected in series are electrically connected. The GND terminal is electrically connected to, for example, the ground of the vehicle.

[0042] Furthermore, the control element 25b includes, for example, a current driver 25b1, a current setting circuit 25b2, a constant current circuit 25b3, and a bypass circuit 25b4.

[0043] The input side of the current driver 25b1 is electrically connected to the VIN terminal. The output side of the current driver 25b1 is electrically connected to the plurality of light-emitting elements 22 connected in series via the OUT terminal. The current driver 25b1 generates a current (output current Ia) to be passed through the light-emitting elements 22. The current driver 25b1 performs constant current control of the output current Ia so that the output current Ia becomes a predetermined value. The current driver 25b1 has a constant current circuit including, for example, an output transistor, a sense resistor, an error amplifier, and the like. The target value of the output current Ia is set based on the set current Ib from the current setting circuit 25b2.

[0044] One input side of the current setting circuit 25b2 is electrically connected to the positive characteristic thermistor 25c via the ISET terminal. The other input side of the current setting circuit 25b2 is electrically connected to the resistor 25d via the RTH terminal. The output side of the current setting circuit 25b2 is electrically connected to the current driver 25b1. The current setting circuit 25b2 generates a set current Ib for setting a target value of the output current Ia. The set current Ib is generated based on a change in the resistance value of the positive characteristic thermistor 25c electrically connected to the ISET terminal. In addition, the current setting circuit 25b2 adjusts the set current Ib based on the terminal voltage generated at the RTH terminal.

[0045] The constant current circuit 25b3 is electrically connected between the input side of the current setting circuit 25b2 and the RTH terminal. The constant current circuit 25b3 passes a predetermined current through the resistor 25d via the RTH terminal. Therefore, a terminal voltage based on the resistance value of the resistor 25d is generated in the RTH terminal. In other words, the current setting circuit 25b2 adjusts the set current Ib based on the resistance value of the resistor 25d electrically connected to the RTH terminal.

[0046] An input side of the bypass circuit 25b4 is electrically connected, via an IR terminal, to some of the series-connected light-emitting elements 22. In the case of the light-emitting circuit 20a illustrated in Fig. 3, an input side of the bypass circuit 25b4 is electrically connected to two of the four series-connected light-emitting elements 22.

[0047] When the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device 1 drops, the total luminous flux of the light irradiated from the vehicle lighting device 1 decreases, and there is a risk that the total luminous flux will fall below a specified value. The bypass circuit 25b4 changes the number of the light-emitting elements 22 to be turned on in accordance with the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device 1.

[0048] For example, when the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device 1 is high (for example, when the rated voltage is about 13.5 V), the bypass circuit 25b4 passes the output current Ia through all of the series-connected light-emitting elements 22. In this case, light is emitted from all of the light-emitting elements 22.

[0049] For example, when the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device 1 is low (for example, about 6 V), the bypass circuit 25b4 passes the output current Ia to the light-emitting element 22 electrically connected between the OUT terminal and the IR terminal. If the number of light-emitting elements 22 to be turned on is reduced, the voltage drop can be reduced. Therefore, even if the voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device 1 is reduced and the output current Ia is reduced, the total luminous flux can be prevented from becoming equal to or lower than the specified value.

[0050] The positive characteristic thermistor 25c electrically connected to the ISET terminal increases in resistance when the temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature (Curie temperature). The positive characteristic thermistor 25c may be, for example, a surface-mount type thermistor. The positive characteristic thermistor 25c may be a thermistor having lead wires. The positive characteristic thermistor 25c illustrated in FIG. 1 is a surface-mount type thermistor.

[0051] In this case, the current setting circuit 25b2 generates a set current Ib based on the resistance value of the positive characteristic thermistor 25c electrically connected to the ISET terminal. The set current Ib is input to the current driver 25b1, and the current driver 25b1 uses the set current Ib to set a target value of the output current Ia. That is, the control element 25b can perform temperature derating control.

[0052] In the above, the case where the positive characteristic thermistor 25c is electrically connected to the ISET terminal has been exemplified, but a negative characteristic thermistor can also be electrically connected to the ISET terminal. Since the resistance value of a negative characteristic thermistor decreases as the temperature rises, even if a negative characteristic thermistor is electrically connected to the ISET terminal, the control element 25b can perform temperature derating control.

[0053] In addition, the positive characteristic thermistor 25c and the negative characteristic thermistor can be electrically connected to the ISET terminal, and at least one of the positive characteristic thermistor 25c and the negative characteristic thermistor can be electrically connected to a resistor or the like. In other words, it is sufficient that at least the thermistor is electrically connected to the ISET terminal.

[0054] Furthermore, there are cases where temperature derating control is not necessary depending on the type and application of the vehicle lighting device 1. When temperature derating control is not performed, the thermistor need not be connected to the ISET terminal. In other words, when temperature derating control is not performed, the thermistor (positive characteristic thermistor 25c) can be omitted.

[0055] Here, since there is variation in the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 22, if the voltage applied between the anode side and the cathode side of the light-emitting element 22 is constant, the brightness (luminous flux, luminance, luminous intensity, illuminance) of the light irradiated from the light-emitting element 22 will vary. As described above, the current setting circuit 25b2 adjusts the set current Ib based on the resistance value of the resistor 25d electrically connected to the RTH terminal. If the set current Ib can be adjusted, the output current Ia can be adjusted. If the output current Ia can be adjusted, the brightness of the light irradiated from the light-emitting element 22 can be made to fall within a predetermined range.

[0056] In this case, it is possible to select the resistor 25d having an appropriate resistance value according to the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 22. However, doing so complicates the manufacturing process of the light-emitting module 20, making it difficult to reduce the manufacturing cost and time of the vehicle lighting device 1 (light-emitting module 20).

[0057] Therefore, it is preferable that the resistor 25d electrically connected to the RTH terminal is adjustable in resistance. That is, the resistor 25d is electrically connected to the input side of the current setting circuit 25b2. The resistor 25d is adjustable in resistance according to the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 22. For example, the resistor 25d can be a variable resistor or a film resistor that can be laser trimmed. In this case, the film resistor has a large surface area, so that heat can be easily dissipated. In addition, the film resistor can be easily manufactured by the screen printing method and the baking method, so that the manufacturing cost can be reduced and the manufacturing time can be shortened.

[0058] The material of the film resistor is, for example, ruthenium oxide (RuO2). The resistance value of the film resistor can be adjusted by laser trimming. For example, the resistance value can be increased by irradiating the film resistor with laser light and removing a part of the film resistor.

[0059] As described above, the current setting circuit 25b2 adjusts the set current Ib based on the adjusted resistance value of the resistor 25d. The current driver 25b1 adjusts the output current Ia based on the adjusted set current Ib. In other words, the vehicle lighting device 1 (light-emitting module 20) of this embodiment is provided with a resistor 25d whose resistance value is adjustable, so that the value of the current flowing to the light-emitting element 22 (the value of the output current Ia) can be adjusted in accordance with the variation in the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 22.

[0060] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view illustrating the arrangement of frame portion 23, control element 25b, and resistor 25d. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the vehicle lighting device 1 as viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a. In order to avoid complication, FIG. 4 illustrates only the substrate 21, the light emitting element 22, the frame portion 23, the sealing portion 24, the control element 25b, the resistor 25d, and the PTC thermistor 25c.

[0061] 4, the resistance value can be increased by irradiating a laser beam onto resistor 25d, which is a film resistor, to form slits 25d1. That is, the film resistor (resistor 25d) whose resistance value is adjusted has slits 25d1. 4, the light-emitting element 22 is provided near the resistor 25d. When the resistor 25d is irradiated with a laser beam, if the laser beam is incident on the light-emitting element 22, the light-emitting element 22 may be broken or its function may be deteriorated.

[0062] Therefore, it is preferable that the distance between the resistor 25d and the light-emitting element 22 is long. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the light-emitting element 22 is provided near the center 21b of the substrate 21 (the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1). Therefore, it is preferable that the resistor 25d is provided near the periphery of the substrate 21. In this way, the irradiation position of the laser light can be separated from the light-emitting element 22, so that the incidence of the laser light on the light-emitting element 22 can be suppressed. In addition, it is preferable that the slit 25d1 is provided on the side of the resistor 25d on the periphery side of the substrate 21. In this way, the irradiation position of the laser light can be further separated from the light-emitting element 22, so that the incidence of the laser light on the light-emitting element 22 can be further suppressed.

[0063] 4, resistor 25d and PTC thermistor 25c may be provided side by side. In such a case, resistor 25d is preferably provided on the opposite side of PTC thermistor 25c from light emitting element 22. In this way, the irradiation position of the laser light can be separated from light emitting element 22, thereby preventing laser light from entering light emitting element 22.

[0064] However, if the distance between resistor 25d and light-emitting element 22 is made too long, the planar dimensions of substrate 21 (dimensions when viewed from a direction along central axis 1a of vehicle lighting device 1) become large. If the planar dimensions of substrate 21 become large, it becomes difficult to reduce the size of vehicle lighting device 1.

[0065] Here, the control element 25b has the largest planar dimension among the circuit elements 25. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 4, the planar shape of the package of the control element 25b is generally substantially rectangular.

[0066] Therefore, when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, it is preferable to provide resistor 25d in the area between extension line 25ba1 of side 25ba (corresponding to an example of a first side) of the package of control element 25b and extension line 25bb1 of side 25bb (corresponding to an example of a second side) of the package of control element 25b that faces side 25ba. In this way, the distance between the resistor 25d and the light emitting element 22 can be increased, and the planar dimensions of the substrate 21 can be prevented from increasing. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, if the control element 25b is arranged so that a side 25ba (side 25bb) of the package of the control element 25b is parallel to a side of the substrate 21, space efficiency can be improved.

[0067] (Vehicle lighting fixtures) In one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lamp 100 can be provided that includes a vehicle lighting device 1. The above-mentioned description of the vehicle lighting device 1 and modified versions of the vehicle lighting device 1 (for example, a device in which a person skilled in the art appropriately adds, deletes, or modifies components and has the features of the present invention) can all be applied to the vehicle lamp 100.

[0068] In the following, as an example, a case where the vehicular lamp 100 is a front combination light installed in an automobile will be described. However, the vehicular lamp 100 is not limited to a front combination light installed in an automobile. The vehicular lamp 100 may be any vehicular lamp that is installed in an automobile, a railroad car, or the like.

[0069] FIG. 5 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view illustrating the vehicle lamp 100. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the vehicle lamp 100 includes, for example, the vehicle lighting device 1, a housing 101, a cover 102, an optical element 103, a seal member 104, and a connector 105.

[0070] The vehicle lighting device 1 is attached to the housing 101. The housing 101 holds the mounting portion 11. The housing 101 is box-shaped with one end side open. The housing 101 is formed of, for example, a resin that does not transmit light. The bottom surface of the housing 101 is provided with a mounting hole 101a into which the portion of the mounting portion 11 provided with the bayonet 12 is inserted. A recess is provided around the mounting hole 101a into which the bayonet 12 provided on the mounting portion 11 is inserted. Note that, although the case where the mounting hole 101a is directly provided in the housing 101 has been exemplified, a mounting member having the mounting hole 101a may be provided on the housing 101.

[0071] When mounting the vehicle lighting device 1 to the vehicle lamp 100, the portion of the mounting portion 11 on which the bayonet 12 is provided is inserted into the mounting hole 101a, and the vehicle lighting device 1 is rotated. Then, for example, the bayonet 12 is held in a fitting portion provided on the periphery of the mounting hole 101a. This type of mounting method is called a twist lock.

[0072] The cover 102 is provided so as to cover the opening of the housing 101. The cover 102 is made of a light-transmitting resin or the like. The cover 102 may also have a function such as a lens.

[0073] Light emitted from the vehicle lighting device 1 is incident on the optical element 103. The optical element 103 reflects, diffuses, guides, and collects the light emitted from the vehicle lighting device 1, and forms a predetermined light distribution pattern. For example, the optical element 103 illustrated in Fig. 5 is a reflector. In this case, the optical element 103 reflects the light emitted from the vehicle lighting device 1 to form a predetermined light distribution pattern.

[0074] The seal member 104 is provided between the flange 13 and the housing 101. The seal member 104 has an annular shape and is made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone resin.

[0075] When the vehicle lighting device 1 is attached to the vehicle lamp 100, the seal member 104 is sandwiched between the flange 13 and the housing 101. Therefore, the seal member 104 can seal the internal space of the housing 101. In addition, the bayonet 12 is pressed against the housing 101 by the elastic force of the seal member 104. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the vehicle lighting device 1 from coming off the housing 101.

[0076] The connector 105 is fitted to ends of the multiple power supply terminals 31 exposed inside the connector holder 15. A lighting circuit and the like are electrically connected to the connector 105. Therefore, by fitting the connector 105 to ends of the multiple power supply terminals 31, the lighting circuit and the like can be electrically connected to the light-emitting element 22.

[0077] Furthermore, a seal member 105a is provided on the connector 105. When the connector 105 having the seal member 105a is inserted into the inside of the connector holder 15, the inside of the connector holder 15 is sealed so as to be watertight.

[0078] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, etc. can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. In addition, the above-mentioned embodiments can be implemented in combination with each other.

[0079] Below, additional notes regarding the above-described embodiment are given.

[0080] (Appendix 1) Socket and; A substrate provided on one end side of the socket; At least one light emitting element disposed on the substrate; a control element provided on the substrate, the control element including a current driver having an output side electrically connected to the light-emitting element and capable of generating an output current to be passed through the light-emitting element, and a current setting circuit having an output side electrically connected to the current driver and capable of generating a set current; a resistor electrically connected to an input side of the current setting circuit, the resistor having a resistance value adjustable in accordance with a forward voltage characteristic of the light emitting element; Equipped with the current setting circuit adjusts the set current based on the adjusted resistance value of the resistor; The current driver adjusts the output current based on the adjusted set current.

[0081] (Appendix 2) 2. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the resistor is a film resistor having a slit.

[0082] (Appendix 3) the light emitting element is provided near the center of the substrate, 3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the resistor is provided near an edge of the substrate.

[0083] (Appendix 4) When viewed from a direction along a central axis of the vehicle lighting device, a planar shape of a package of the control element is substantially rectangular, The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the resistor is provided in an area between an extension line of a first side of the package and an extension line of a second side of the package opposite to the first side.

[0084] (Appendix 5) A plurality of the light emitting elements are provided, 5. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the control element further includes a bypass circuit that changes the number of the light-emitting elements to be turned on in response to a voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device.

[0085] (Appendix 6) A vehicle lighting device according to any one of appendix 1 to 5; A housing in which the vehicle lighting device is mounted; A vehicle lamp equipped with: [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 1 Vehicle lighting device, 1a central axis, 10 socket, 11 mounting portion, 20 light emitting module, 20a light emitting circuit, 21 board, 21 center, 22 light emitting element, 25 circuit element, 25a protection element, 25b control element, 25b1 current driver, 25b2 current setting circuit, 25b4 bypass circuit, 25ba side, 25ba1 extension line, 25bb side, 25bb1 extension line, 25d resistor, 25d1 slit, 100 vehicle lamp, 101 housing, Ib set current, Ia output current

Claims

1. A socket; A substrate provided on one end side of the socket; At least one light emitting element disposed on the substrate; a control element provided on the substrate, the control element having a current driver having an output side electrically connected to the light-emitting element and capable of generating an output current to be passed through the light-emitting element, and a current setting circuit having an output side electrically connected to the current driver and capable of generating a set current; a resistor electrically connected to an input side of the current setting circuit, the resistor having a resistance value adjustable in accordance with a forward voltage characteristic of the light emitting element; Equipped with the current setting circuit adjusts the set current based on the adjusted resistance value of the resistor; The current driver adjusts the output current based on the adjusted set current.

2. 2. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the resistor is a film resistor having a slit.

3. the light emitting element is provided near the center of the substrate, 3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the resistor is provided near a periphery of the substrate.

4. When viewed from a direction along a central axis of the vehicle lighting device, a planar shape of a package of the control element is substantially rectangular, 3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the resistor is provided in an area between an extension of a first side of the package and an extension of a second side of the package opposite the first side.

5. A plurality of the light emitting elements are provided, 3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the control element further includes a bypass circuit that changes the number of the light-emitting elements to be turned on in response to a voltage applied to the vehicle lighting device.

6. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1; A housing in which the vehicle lighting device is mounted; A vehicle lamp equipped with:

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