Drawing lighting fixture

Abstract

To make it possible to form a clear drawing light-distribution pattern after enhancing efficiency in utilization of light emitted from a light emitting device with inexpensive arrangement in a drawing lighting fixture constituted so as to form the drawing light-distribution pattern.SOLUTION: Between a light emitting device 20 and a projection lens 30, an image generating member 40 for generating an image serving as an origin of a drawing light-distribution pattern is disposed. In this case, the image generating member 40 is constituted of a translucent member, and then a part of a light emitting surface 42a is constituted as a translucent region 42aA, and surroundings thereof is constituted as a light shielding region 42aB with a plurality of corner cubes 50 formed thereon. Thus, while the translucent region 42aA generates the image serving as the origin of the drawing light-distribution pattern, light which reaches the light shielding region 42aB is retro-reflected by the plurality of corner cubes 50 toward the side of a light incident surface 42b of the image generating member 40, thereby being prevented from being emitted to a space in front of a lighting fixture.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, there have been known drawing lamps for forming a drawing light distribution pattern (i.e., a light distribution pattern for drawing letters, symbols, etc. on the road surface in front of the lamp) that are configured to irradiate light emitted from a light-emitting element toward the front of the lamp via a projection lens.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a vehicle-mounted drawing lamp having a light shielding plate disposed between a light-emitting element and a projection lens as an image generating member for generating an image that is the basis of a drawing light distribution pattern. That is, in the drawing lamp described in Patent Document 1, the image is generated by an opening formed in the light shielding plate.

[0004] Furthermore, in "Patent Document 2," there is described a configuration of such a drawing lamp in which a light guide member is disposed between a light emitting element and a light blocking plate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2022 / 019231 [Patent Document 2] JP 2019-192350 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In such vehicle-mounted drawing lamps, the light emitted from them forms a drawing light distribution pattern, allowing the vehicle to indicate its intentions to those around it when traveling at night, thereby making it possible to alert other vehicles, pedestrians, etc.

[0007] In this case, if a light-guiding member is arranged between the light-emitting element and the light-shielding plate, as in the drawing lamp described in Patent Document 2, it is possible to increase the efficiency of using the light emitted from the light-emitting element; however, the additional light-guiding member increases the cost of the drawing lamp.

[0008] On the other hand, in such a drawing lamp, if the tip surface of the light-guiding member is configured so that a light diffusion treatment such as embossing is applied to areas other than the area for generating the image that is the basis of the drawing light distribution pattern, it becomes possible to give the light-guiding member itself an image generation function, thereby making it possible to eliminate the light-shielding plate and reduce the cost of the drawing lamp.

[0009] However, when such a configuration is adopted, the tip surface of the light-guiding member will appear dimly bright due to diffuse light transmission, even in areas other than the area for generating the image, making it impossible to form a clear light distribution pattern for drawing.

[0010] Such a problem can also occur in drawing lamps other than those mounted on vehicles.

[0011] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a drawing lamp configured to form a drawing light distribution pattern, which is inexpensively configured to increase the efficiency of utilization of light emitted from a light-emitting element, while also being capable of forming a clear drawing light distribution pattern. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The present invention is intended to achieve the above object by providing an image-forming member with a special configuration.

[0013] That is, the drawing lamp according to the present invention is A drawing lamp configured to form a drawing light distribution pattern by irradiating light emitted from a light emitting element forward through a projection lens, an image generating member configured to generate an image serving as a basis for the drawing light distribution pattern by blocking a portion of the light emitted from the light emitting element is disposed between the light emitting element and the projection lens; the image generating member is made of a light-transmitting member having an incident surface for receiving the light emitted from the light-emitting element and an exit surface for emitting the light incident from the incident surface, a partial region of the exit surface is configured as a light-transmitting region for generating the image, and a peripheral region of the partial region is configured as a light-shielding region, The light-shielding region is characterized in that a plurality of corner cubes are formed on the light exit surface.

[0014] The above-mentioned "drawing lamp" may be a lamp for use in a vehicle, or may be a lamp for use in a purpose other than a vehicle.

[0015] The above-mentioned "image generating member" is composed of a light-transmitting member, but the specific shapes of the entrance surface and exit surface are not particularly limited.

[0016] The above-mentioned "light-shielding region" is configured by forming a plurality of corner cubes on the exit surface of the image-generating member, but the specific arrangement of these corner cubes and their respective sizes, shapes, etc. are not particularly limited. Effect of the Invention

[0017] The drawing lamp of the present invention is configured to form a drawing light distribution pattern by irradiating the light emitted from the light-emitting element toward the front of the lamp through a projection lens, and the image-generating member arranged between the light-emitting element and the projection lens is composed of a light-transmitting member having an incident surface for receiving the light emitted from the light-emitting element and an exit surface for emitting the incident light from the incident surface. In addition, a portion of the exit surface of the image-generating member is configured as a light-transmitting region and its periphery is configured as a light-shielding region, and the light-shielding region is configured by forming a plurality of corner cubes on the exit surface, so that the following effects can be obtained.

[0018] In other words, in the drawing lamp of the present invention, an image that serves as the basis for the drawing light distribution pattern is generated by the light-transmitting area on the exit surface of the image-generating member, but the surrounding light-shielding area is constituted by a plurality of corner cubes formed on the exit surface of the image-generating member, so that light that reaches this light-shielding area is reflected back towards the incident surface and does not exit into the space in front of the lamp.

[0019] Therefore, the image generated on the exit surface of the image generating member becomes clear, and the light distribution pattern for drawing is also formed as a clear light distribution pattern. Moreover, this can be achieved while reducing the cost of the drawing lamp by eliminating the conventional light shielding plate.

[0020] Thus, according to the present invention, in a drawing lamp configured to form a drawing light distribution pattern, it is possible to increase the utilization efficiency of the light emitted from the light-emitting element through an inexpensive configuration, while also forming a clear drawing light distribution pattern.

[0021] In the above configuration, if the boundary between the light-transmitting region and the light-blocking region on the exit surface of the image generating member is formed by the ridges of a plurality of corner cubes, the image generated on the exit surface of the image generating member can be made clearer, and the light distribution pattern for drawing can also be made clearer.

[0022] In the above configuration, if the light emitting element is mounted on a white substrate, the following advantageous effects can be obtained.

[0023] In other words, after entering the image generating member, the light reaches the light-shielding area of ​​the exit surface, is reflected back toward the entrance surface, and most of it is then emitted from the entrance surface into the space behind the lamp, with this emitted light heading toward the vicinity of the light-emitting element.

[0024] Therefore, by constructing the substrate on which the light-emitting element is mounted as a white substrate, it is possible to reuse the retroreflected light that reaches this white substrate by reflecting it in an area adjacent to the light-emitting element and directing it toward the incident surface of the image-generating member.

[0025] Then, by making the light reflected from this white substrate incident on the image generating member, the image that is the basis of the light distribution pattern for drawing can be brightened, thereby increasing the brightness of the light distribution pattern for drawing.

[0026] In the above configuration, if the exit surface of the image generating member is formed to extend along a plane, the corner cubes can be formed with high precision, and the light that reaches the light-shielding region can be reliably retroreflected by the corner cubes, thereby making it easy to clearly form the image and light distribution pattern generated on the exit surface of the image generating member.

[0027] In the above configuration, if the corner cubes are formed to be recessed relative to the exit surface of the image-generating member, the light-blocking region can be easily configured as a nested part in the mold structure for molding the image-generating member, which makes it possible to mold the image-generating member at low cost.

[0028] In the above configuration, if the translucent member is further made of a colored transparent resin member, the drawing light distribution pattern can be formed as a colored light distribution pattern even when the light-emitting element is made of a white light-emitting diode or the like.

[0029] In this case, if the drawing lamp is configured to light up in synchronization with the lighting of the turn signal lamp and the translucent member is made of an amber-colored resin member, a drawing light distribution pattern can be formed in the same amber color as the light emitted by the turn signal lamp.

[0030] In the above configuration, if the light-transmitting member is further configured so that the light-transmitting area of ​​its exit surface is formed into a concave curved shape, the image that is the basis of the drawing light distribution pattern can be formed as an image that is less affected by field curvature, and thereby the drawing light distribution pattern can be formed as a clearer light distribution pattern. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a drawing lamp according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] Cross-sectional view of line II-II in Figure 1 [Diagram 3] Cross-sectional view of line III-III in Figure 1 [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a main part of the image generating member of the drawing lamp as viewed obliquely from below. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a side view showing the drawing lamp mounted on a vehicle. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the drawing lamp mounted on a vehicle. [Figure 7]FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1, showing a first modified example of the embodiment; [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a view substantially similar to FIG. 3, showing a second modified example of the embodiment; [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1, showing a third modified example of the embodiment; [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3, showing a fourth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 7(a) is a view similar to FIG. 6, showing the operation of the third modified example, and FIG. 7(b) is a view similar to FIG. 6, showing the operation of the fourth modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 1, showing a fifth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 5 is a diagram similar to FIG. 4, showing the fifth modified example. [Figure 14] FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIG. 6, illustrating the operation of the fifth modified example. [Figure 15] FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4, showing a sixth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 7 is a diagram similar to FIG. 3, showing a seventh modification of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0033] Fig. 1 is a front view showing a drawing lamp 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Fig. 1, and Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Fig. 1.

[0034] 1 to 3, the direction indicated by X is the "front of the lamp," the direction indicated by Y is the "left direction" perpendicular to the "front of the lamp" (the "right direction" when viewed from the front of the lamp), and the direction indicated by Z is the "upward direction." This is the same in other figures.

[0035] Before describing the specific configuration of the drawing lamp 10 according to this embodiment, an overview thereof will be given.

[0036] 5 and 6 are a side view and a plan view showing the drawing lamp 10 mounted on a vehicle 100. FIG.

[0037] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the drawing lamp 10 is configured to irradiate light diagonally downward toward the outside in the vehicle width direction when mounted on the vehicle width direction side end at the front end of the vehicle 100. At that time, the drawing lamp 10 is turned on in synchronization with the turning on of the front turn signal lamp 12, thereby forming a drawing light distribution pattern PA on the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle. Note that Figure 6 shows a state in which the drawing lamp 10 on the left side and the front turn signal lamp 12 are turned on.

[0038] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, when the drawing lamp 10 is mounted on the vehicle 100, the front of the lamp is set to be inclined diagonally downward with respect to the fore-and-aft direction of the vehicle, but as shown in Figures 1 to 3, when the drawing lamp 10 is in a stand-alone state, the front of the lamp is set to face horizontally.

[0039] Next, a specific configuration of the drawing lamp 10 will be described.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the drawing lamp 10 is configured to irradiate light emitted from a light emitting element 20 through a projection lens 30 toward the front of the lamp.

[0041] The projection lens 30 includes a projection lens portion 32 as a lens body, and an outer peripheral flange portion 34 surrounding the projection lens portion 32 .

[0042] The projection lens unit 32 is a plano-convex lens having a front surface 32a formed of a convex curved surface, and has an optical axis Ax extending in the front-rear direction of the lamp. The projection lens unit 32 has a rectangular (specifically, substantially square) outer shape when viewed from the front of the lamp.

[0043] The outer peripheral flange portion 34 is formed so as to extend along a vertical plane that is flush with the rear surface 32b of the projection lens portion 32 and perpendicular to the optical axis Ax, and a pair of mounting flange portions 36 are formed on both the left and right sides of the outer peripheral flange portion 34. The pair of left and right mounting flange portions 36 each have an L-shaped horizontal cross section, and their rear end faces extend along a vertical plane that is perpendicular to the optical axis Ax, passing through the rear focal point F of the projection lens 30.

[0044] The light emitting element 20 is a white light emitting diode and has a rectangular (specifically, square) light emitting surface 20a. The light emitting element 20 is mounted on a substrate 22 with the light emitting surface 20a facing the front of the lamp and with the light emitting center (i.e., the center point of the light emitting surface 20a) positioned on the optical axis Ax. The substrate 22 is supported by a heat sink 60 and disposed so as to extend along a vertical plane perpendicular to the optical axis Ax.

[0045] Between the light emitting element 20 and the projection lens 30, an image generating member 40 is disposed, which is configured to generate an image that is the basis of the light distribution pattern for drawing PA by blocking a part of the light from the light emitting element 20 toward the projection lens section 32. The image generating member 40 is made of a light-transmitting member, and includes a lens section 42 that controls the deflection of the light emitted from the light emitting element 20, and a flat plate section 44 that surrounds the lens section 42. The light-transmitting member is made of a colored transparent resin member. Specifically, the light-transmitting member is made of a resin member of amber color, which is the same as the light emission color of the turn signal lamp 12.

[0046] The lens section 42 is configured as a plano-convex lens, and has a circular outer shape centered on the optical axis Ax when viewed from the front of the lamp. Specifically, the rear surface of the lens section 42 is configured as a convex curved entrance surface 42b that deflects the light emitted from the light-emitting center of the light-emitting element 20 toward the front of the lamp (i.e., in a direction parallel to the optical axis Ax), and the front surface of the lens section 42 is configured as an exit surface 42a that directly emits the light incident from the entrance surface 42b toward the front of the lamp.

[0047] A part of the exit surface 42a is configured as a light-transmitting area 42aA for generating an image that is the basis of the drawing light distribution pattern PA, and the surrounding area is configured as a light-shielding area 42aB. In this case, the light-shielding area 42aB is configured by forming a plurality of corner cubes 50 on the exit surface 42a.

[0048] In the image generating member 40, a light-transmitting area 42aA on the exit surface 42a of the lens portion 42 and the front surface of the flat plate portion 44 are configured in the same vertical plane that passes through the rear focal point F of the projection lens 30 and is perpendicular to the optical axis Ax.

[0049] The specific configuration of the image generating member 40 will be described later.

[0050] The heat sink 60 comprises a main body 62 extending along a vertical plane perpendicular to the front-to-rear direction of the lamp, a number of heat dissipation fins 64 extending along the vertical plane from the main body 62 toward the rear of the lamp, and a pair of mounting flanges 66 formed on both the left and right sides of the main body 62.

[0051] The substrate 22 is in surface contact with the main body 62 of the heat sink 60, and is positioned and supported by fastening screws 72 at two diagonal points.

[0052] The projection lens 30 and the image generating member 40 are positioned and supported by fastening screws 74 at two diagonal positions to a pair of left and right mounting flanges 66 of the heat sink 60. The screws are fastened together with the pair of left and right mounting flanges 36 of the projection lens 30 and both left and right ends of the flat plate portion 44 of the image generating member 40 in a state where they are superimposed on the pair of left and right mounting flanges 66 of the heat sink 60.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 1, the pair of left and right mounting flange portions 36 of the projection lens 30 are formed with positioning pins 36a at two diagonal positions, while the left and right ends of the flat portion 44 of the image generating member 40 and the pair of left and right mounting flange portions 66 of the heat sink 60 are respectively formed with pin insertion holes 44a, 66a for inserting the positioning pins 36a.

[0054] Next, a specific configuration of the image generating member 40 will be described.

[0055] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the main part of the image generating member 40 as viewed obliquely from below.

[0056] As also shown in FIG. 4, on the exit surface 42a of the lens portion 42, the planar light-transmitting region 42aA is formed as an approximately V-shaped region approximately centered on the optical axis Ax, and the light-shielding region 42aB surrounding this light-transmitting region 42aA is formed so that a plurality of corner cubes 50 form recesses with respect to the exit surface 42a.

[0057] That is, each of the plurality of corner cubes 50 is formed so as to protrude in a triangular pyramid shape toward the front of the lamp from a position displaced one step rearward from emission surface 42a. In this case, each of the plurality of corner cubes 50 is set so that its apex is substantially flush with emission surface 42a, and the length of one side of its outer periphery (i.e., the ridge line) is set to a value of about 1 to 3 mm.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 1, the multiple corner cubes 50 are continuously arranged two-dimensionally with the upright equilateral triangular corner cubes 50 and the inverted equilateral triangular corner cubes 50 adjacent to each other above and below when viewed from the front of the lamp.

[0059] The light-transmitting region 42aA is configured by arranging two small equilateral triangles side by side on the upper side of a large inverted equilateral triangle, and is thus set as the above-mentioned approximately V-shaped region. The light-shielding region 42aB surrounding the light-transmitting region 42aA is set as a hexagonal region that is slightly larger than the outer shape of the entrance surface 42b of the lens portion 42.

[0060] Boundary line L1 between light-transmitting region 42aA and light-shielding region 42aB is defined by the ridgelines of multiple corner cubes 50. In addition, outer periphery L2 of light-shielding region 42aB is also defined by the ridgelines of multiple corner cubes 50.

[0061] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, of the light that enters through the entrance surface 42b of the lens portion 42 and reaches its exit surface 42a, the image generating member 40 emits the light that reaches the light-transmitting region 42aA directly into the space in front of the lamp, while the light that reaches the light-shielding region 42aB is totally reflected (i.e., retroreflected) in the opposite direction toward the entrance surface 42b by a plurality of corner cubes 50.

[0062] In addition, since the light-shielding area 42aB is set to be larger than the outer shape of the incident surface 42b of the lens portion 42, all of the light that enters through the incident surface 42b of the lens portion 42 and reaches its exit surface 42a is retroreflected except for the light that reaches the light-transmitting area 42aA.

[0063] Next, the drawing light distribution pattern PA shown in FIGS.

[0064] As described above, the drawing light distribution pattern PA is formed by the light irradiated from the drawing lamp 10, and this drawing light distribution pattern PA is formed as a light distribution pattern having an approximately inverted V shape (i.e., a pointed shape toward the front of the lamp).

[0065] This is because the image (i.e., the image that forms the basis of the drawing light distribution pattern PA) generated in the light-transmitting area 42aA on the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40 by the light emitted from the light-emitting element 20 is formed in an approximately V-shape, and the drawing light distribution pattern PA is formed as an inverted projection image of this image.

[0066] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0067] The drawing lamp 10 of this embodiment is configured to form a drawing light distribution pattern PA by irradiating the light emitted from the light-emitting element 20 toward the front of the lamp via the projection lens 30. The image generating member 40 arranged between the light-emitting element 20 and the projection lens 30 is made of a translucent member having an incident surface 42b that receives the light emitted from the light-emitting element 20 and an exit surface 42a that emits the incident light from the incident surface 42b. In addition, the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40 is partially configured as a translucent region 42aA and its periphery is configured as a light-shielding region 42aB. The light-shielding region 42aB is configured by forming a plurality of corner cubes 50 on the exit surface 42a, so that the following effects can be obtained.

[0068] That is, in the drawing lamp 10 of this embodiment, an image that is the basis of the drawing light distribution pattern PA is generated by the light-transmitting region 42aA on the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40, but the surrounding light-shielding region 42aB is formed by forming a plurality of corner cubes 50 on the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40, so that light that reaches this light-shielding region 42aB is reflected back toward the entrance surface 42b and does not exit into the space in front of the lamp.

[0069] Therefore, the image generated on the emission surface 42a of the image generating member 40 becomes clear, and the drawing light distribution pattern PA is also formed as a clear light distribution pattern. Moreover, this can be achieved while reducing the cost of the drawing lamp 10 by eliminating the conventional light shielding plate.

[0070] Thus, according to this embodiment, in the drawing lighting fixture 10 configured to form a drawing light distribution pattern PA, a clear drawing light distribution pattern PA can be formed while increasing the utilization efficiency of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 20 through an inexpensive configuration.

[0071] Moreover, in the drawing lamp 10 according to this embodiment, the boundary line L1 between the light-transmitting region 42aA and the light-shielding region 42aB on the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40 is formed by the ridges of the multiple corner cubes 50, so that the image generated on the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40 can be made clearer. This allows the drawing light distribution pattern PA to be formed as a clearer light distribution pattern.

[0072] Furthermore, in the drawing lamp 10 according to this embodiment, the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40 is formed to extend along a plane, so that the corner cubes 50 can be formed with high precision. Therefore, the light that reaches the light-shielding region 42aB can be reliably retroreflected by the corner cubes 50, and this makes it possible to easily form a clear image and drawing light distribution pattern PA generated on the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40.

[0073] Furthermore, in the drawing lamp 10 according to this embodiment, the corner cubes 50 are formed to be recessed relative to the emission surface 42a of the image-generating member 40, so that the light-shielding region 42aB can be easily configured as a nested part in the structure of the mold for molding the image-generating member 40. This makes it possible to mold the image-generating member 40 at low cost.

[0074] In addition, the drawing lamp 10 in this embodiment is configured to light up in synchronization with the lighting of the front turn signal lamp 12, but since the translucent member serving as the image generating member 40 is made of an amber resin member, it is possible to form a drawing light distribution pattern PA of the same amber color as the light emitted by the front turn signal lamp 12, even though the light emitting element 20 is made of a white light emitting diode.

[0075] In the above embodiment, the drawing lamp 10 is described as being configured to light up in synchronization with the lighting of the front turn signal lamp 12, but it is also possible to configure the drawing lamp 10 to light up in synchronization with the lighting of the rear turn signal lamp, etc.

[0076] In the above embodiment, the translucent member serving as the image generating member 40 has been described as being made of an amber-colored resin material, but it is also possible to use other colored transparent resin materials (e.g., green, blue, etc. resin materials).

[0077] In the above embodiment, the light-transmitting region 42aA on the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40 has been described as having an approximately V-shaped outer shape, but it is also possible to configure it to have other outer shapes (for example, an outer shape such as a downward arrow or an inverted trapezoid).

[0078] In the above embodiment, each of the multiple corner cubes has an outer shape of an equilateral triangle, but it is also possible to configure the corner cubes to have an outer shape other than this (for example, a regular hexagon).

[0079] In the above embodiment, the boundary line L1 between the light-transmitting region 42aA and the light-shielding region 42aB on the exit surface 42a of the image generating member 40 is described as being formed by the ridges of multiple corner cubes 50. However, it is also possible to configure the boundary line L1 so that it extends and intersects with the ridges of multiple corner cubes 50.

[0080] In the above embodiment, the light emitting element 20 is described as emitting white light, but other light colors (eg, amber, red, etc.) may also be used.

[0081] In the above embodiment, the drawing lamp 10 is described as being mounted at the vehicle width direction side end at the front end of the vehicle 100, but it is also possible to configure it to be mounted at the rear end or side of the vehicle 100, etc.

[0082] In the above embodiment, it has been described that the drawing light distribution pattern PA is formed on the road surface 2 ahead of the vehicle by the light irradiated from the drawing lamp 10, but it is also possible to configure the drawing light distribution pattern to be formed on a wall surface arranged in front of the lamp or a wall surface extending toward the front of the lamp.

[0083] Next, a modification of the above embodiment will be described.

[0084] First, a first modification of the above embodiment will be described.

[0085] FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIG. 1, showing a drawing lamp 110 according to this modified example.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 7, the basic configuration of this modification is similar to that of the above embodiment, but the arrangement of the light emitting elements 20 is different from that of the above embodiment.

[0087] That is, in the drawing lamp 110 of this modified example, the light-emitting element 20 is positioned in a state displaced downward more than in the above embodiment (specifically, directly below the optical axis Ax and at a position overlapping with the lower region of the light-transmitting region 42aA when viewed from the front of the lamp).

[0088] By adopting the configuration of this modified example, the following advantageous effects can be obtained.

[0089] That is, in this modification, an image serving as the basis of the light distribution pattern for drawing PA is generated in the light-transmitting region 42aA on the emission surface 42a of the image generating member 40 by the emitted light from the light-emitting element 20, but the brightness of the lower region in this image can be increased more than in the above embodiment. This makes it possible to make the light distribution pattern for drawing PA formed on the road surface 2 ahead of the vehicle a light distribution pattern having approximately uniform brightness from the near distance region to the long distance region.

[0090] Next, a second modification of the above embodiment will be described.

[0091] FIG. 8 is a diagram similar to FIG. 3, showing a drawing lamp 210 according to this modified example.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 8, the basic configuration of this modification is similar to that of the above embodiment, but the configuration of the substrate 222 supporting the light emitting element 20 is different from that of the above embodiment.

[0093] That is, in the drawing lighting device 210 according to this modified example, the substrate 222 is made of a white substrate.

[0094] Specifically, the substrate 222 of this modification is configured by forming a white coating 224 on its surface (i.e., the mounting surface of the light emitting element 22). The coating 224 is configured by a resist layer that covers copper foil (not shown) formed as a wiring pattern on the surface of the substrate 222.

[0095] By adopting the configuration of this modified example, the following advantageous effects can be obtained.

[0096] As shown in Fig. 8, the light emitted from the light-emitting surface 20a of the light-emitting element 20 and incident on the image generating member 40 reaches the light-shielding region 42aB of the light-emitting surface 42a, and is then retroreflected toward the incident surface 42b by the multiple corner cubes 50 that make up the light-shielding region 42aB, with most of this retroreflected light being emitted from the incident surface 42b into the space behind the lamp. Note that Fig. 8 shows the optical paths of the light emitted from the center position and the upper and lower end positions of the light-emitting surface 20a of the light-emitting element 20.

[0097] The retroreflected light thus emitted from the incident surface 42b of the image generating member 40 into the space behind the lamp becomes light directed toward the vicinity of the light emitting element 20 (that is, the light emitting surface 20a or the peripheral area of ​​the light emitting surface 20a on the substrate 222).

[0098] Therefore, as in this modified example, by constructing the substrate 222 on which the light-emitting element 20 is mounted from a white substrate, it is possible to reuse the retroreflected light that reaches this substrate 222 by reflecting it in the area adjacent to the light-emitting element 20 and as light that travels toward the incident surface 42b of the image generating member 40.

[0099] Then, by making the reflected light from this substrate 222 incident on the image generating member 40, the image that is the basis of the plotting light distribution pattern PA can be brightened, thereby increasing the brightness of the plotting light distribution pattern PA.

[0100] Next, a third modification of the above embodiment will be described.

[0101] FIG. 9 is a view similar to FIG. 1, showing a drawing lamp 310 according to this modified example.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 9, the basic configuration of this modification is similar to that of the above embodiment, but the number and arrangement of the light emitting elements 20 and the configuration of the image generating member 340 are different from those of the above embodiment.

[0103] That is, the drawing lamp 310 according to this modified example includes three light-emitting elements 20. These three light-emitting elements 20 are disposed at a position directly below the optical axis Ax and at positions to the upper left and upper right.

[0104] The image generating member 340 of this modified example is made of a translucent material, similar to the image generating member 40 of the above embodiment, and is configured to include a lens portion 342 that controls the deflection of the light emitted from the three light-emitting elements 20, and a flat plate portion 344 that surrounds this lens portion 342.

[0105] As in the above embodiment, lens portion 342 is a plano-convex lens, the rear surface of which is configured as convexly curved entrance surface 342b, and the front surface of which is configured as exit surface 342a. Exit surface 342a of lens portion 342 has three regions configured as light-transmitting regions 342aA, and the surrounding region is configured as light-shielding region 342aB.

[0106] In this case, the three light transmitting regions 342aA are arranged in a V shape so as to correspond to the three light emitting elements 20, and each of them has an outer shape of a substantially V shape that is smaller than that in the above embodiment.

[0107] On the other hand, the light-shielding region 342aB is configured by forming a plurality of corner cubes 350 on the light-emitting surface 342a, similar to the above embodiment.

[0108] FIG. 11(a) is a plan view showing a drawing light distribution pattern PB formed by light emitted from a drawing lamp 310 according to this modified example.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 11(a), the drawing light distribution pattern PB is composed of three light distribution patterns PBa, PBb, and PBc.

[0110] All three light distribution patterns PBa to PBc are inverted V-shaped (i.e., pointed toward the front of the lamp) light distribution patterns smaller than the drawing light distribution pattern PA of the above embodiment, and are formed at approximately equal intervals in an inverted V-shaped arrangement on the road surface 2 ahead of the vehicle.

[0111] This is because the three images (i.e., the images that are the basis of the three light distribution patterns PBa to PBc) generated in the light-transmitting area 342aA on the exit surface 342a of the image generating member 340 by the light emitted from the three light-emitting elements 20 are arranged in a V-shape and are formed in an approximately V-shape, and the drawing light distribution pattern PB is formed as an inverted projection image of these.

[0112] By employing the configuration of this modified example, the drawing light distribution pattern PB can be formed as a light distribution pattern consisting of three clear light distribution patterns PBa to PBc that are formed in a substantially V-shape in a V-shaped arrangement.

[0113] Moreover, the drawing lamp 310 of this modified example is configured such that three light-emitting elements 20 are arranged at positions corresponding to the three light-transmitting areas 342aA, so that the three light distribution patterns PBa to PBc can be formed as bright light distribution patterns.

[0114] Next, a fourth modification of the above embodiment will be described.

[0115] FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 3, showing a drawing lamp 410 according to this modified example.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 10, the basic configuration of this modified example is similar to that of the above embodiment, but differs from the above embodiment in that the image generating member 440 has three lens portions 442, and therefore the number of light-emitting elements 20 and the configurations of the projection lens 430, substrate 422 and heat sink 460 are different from those of the above embodiment.

[0117] That is, the image generating member 440 of this modified example has three lens sections 442 arranged in series in the vertical direction. In this case, the central lens section 442 is arranged on the optical axis Ax, and the pair of upper and lower lens sections 442 are arranged at positions equidistant from the optical axis Ax.

[0118] The three lens portions 442 are plano-convex lenses, similar to the lens portion 42 of the above embodiment, with the rear surface being configured as a convex curved entrance surface 442b and the front surface being configured as an exit surface 442a. However, the size of each of the three lens portions 442 is smaller than that of the lens portion 42 of the above embodiment.

[0119] A part of the light-transmitting surface 442a of each of the three lens portions 442 is configured as a light-transmitting region 442aA, and the surrounding region is configured as a light-shielding region 442aB. In this case, the three light-transmitting regions 442aA all have a substantially V-shaped outer shape smaller than the light-transmitting region 42aA of the above embodiment. Similarly to the above embodiment, the light-shielding region 442aB is configured by forming a plurality of corner cubes 450 on the light-transmitting surface 442a. However, the size of each of the plurality of corner cubes 450 is smaller than that of the above embodiment.

[0120] The projection lens 430 of this modified example is configured with a projection lens portion 432 configured as a plano-convex lens and an outer peripheral flange portion 434, similar to the projection lens 30 of the above embodiment, but the size of the projection lens portion 432 is larger than in the above embodiment.

[0121] In this modified example, three light emitting elements 20 are mounted on a substrate 422 in a state in which they are arranged on the rear side of the lamp of three lens portions 442 , and this substrate 422 is supported by a heat sink 460 .

[0122] FIG. 11(b) is a plan view showing a drawing light distribution pattern PC formed by light emitted from a drawing lamp 410 according to this modified example.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 11(b), the drawing light distribution pattern PC is composed of three light distribution patterns PCa, PCb, and PCc.

[0124] All three light distribution patterns PCa to PCc are inverted V-shaped (i.e., pointed toward the front of the lamp) light distribution patterns smaller than the drawing light distribution pattern PA of the above embodiment, and are formed in a serial arrangement at approximately equal intervals on the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle.

[0125] This is because the three images (i.e., the images that are the basis of the three light distribution patterns PCa to PCc) generated in the light-transmitting area 442aA on the exit surface 442a of the three lens portions 442 of the image generating member 440 by the light emitted from the three light-emitting elements 20 are arranged in series to form an approximately V-shape, and the drawing light distribution pattern PC is formed as an inverted projection image of these.

[0126] By employing the configuration of this modified example, the drawing light distribution pattern PC can be formed as a light distribution pattern consisting of three clear light distribution patterns PCa to PCc that are arranged in series and formed in a substantially V-shape.

[0127] Moreover, the drawing lamp 410 of this modified example is configured such that three light-emitting elements 20 are arranged at positions corresponding to the three light-transmitting areas 442aA, so that the three light distribution patterns PCa to PCc can be formed as bright light distribution patterns.

[0128] Next, a fifth modification of the above embodiment will be described.

[0129] Fig. 12 is a view similar to Fig. 1, showing a drawing lamp 510 according to this modified example, and Fig. 13 is a view similar to Fig. 4, showing an image generating member 540 of the drawing lamp 510.

[0130] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the basic configuration of this modified example is similar to that of the above embodiment, but the configuration of the image generating member 540 is partially different from that of the above embodiment.

[0131] That is, the image generating member 540 of this modification is also made of a light-transmitting member (specifically, an amber-colored resin member), and includes a lens portion 542 that controls the deflection of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 20, and a flat plate portion 544 that surrounds the lens portion 542. In the image generating member 540, a light-transmitting region 542aA on the emission surface 542a of the lens portion 542 and a front surface 544a of the flat plate portion 544 are both formed as vertical surfaces perpendicular to the optical axis Ax. However, while the light-transmitting region 542aA is located on a vertical plane that passes through the rear focal point F of the projection lens 30, the front surface 544a of the flat plate portion 544 is located on a vertical plane displaced toward the rear of the lamp from the light-transmitting region 542aA.

[0132] On the exit surface 542a of the lens portion 542, the light-transmitting region 542aA is set as a flattened V-shaped (so-called chevron-shaped) region approximately centered on the optical axis Ax when viewed from the front of the lamp, and the light-shielding region 542aB surrounding this light-transmitting region 542aA is set as a rectangular region slightly larger than the outer shape of the entrance surface 542b of the lens portion 542.

[0133] The light-shielding region 542aB is configured such that a plurality of corner cubes 550, each having a regular hexagonal outer shape when viewed from the front of the lamp, are arranged continuously in a two-dimensional manner. The plurality of corner cubes 550 are formed so as to form recesses in the front surface 544a of the flat plate portion 544.

[0134] That is, each of the multiple corner cubes 550 is formed so as to protrude in a triangular pyramid shape toward the front of the lamp from a position displaced one step rearward from front surface 544a of flat plate portion 544. In this case, the apex of each of the multiple corner cubes 550 is set so as to be approximately flush with front surface 544a of flat plate portion 544, and the length of one side of the outer periphery is set to a value of approximately 1 to 3 mm.

[0135] Even in this modified example, the image generating member 540 is configured such that, of the light that enters through the entrance surface 542b of the lens portion 542 and reaches its exit surface 542a, the light that reaches the light-transmitting region 542aA is directly emitted into the space in front of the lamp, while the light that reaches the light-shielding region 542aB is totally reflected (i.e., retroreflected) in the opposite direction toward the entrance surface 542b by multiple corner cubes 550.

[0136] In addition, since the light-shielding region 542aB is set to be larger than the outer shape of the incident surface 542b of the lens portion 542, of the light that enters through the incident surface 542b of the lens portion 542 and reaches its exit surface 542a, all light other than the light that reaches the light-transmitting region 542aA is retroreflected.

[0137] FIG. 14 is a plan view showing a drawing light distribution pattern PD formed by light emitted from a drawing lamp 510 according to this modified example.

[0138] The drawing light distribution pattern PD is formed as a flat inverted V-shaped light distribution pattern (that is, a shape that is somewhat pointed toward the front of the lamp).

[0139] This is because the image (i.e., the image that forms the basis of the drawing light distribution pattern PD) generated in the light-transmitting region 542aA on the exit surface 542a of the image generating member 540 by the light emitted from the light-emitting element 20 is formed into a flattened V-shape, and the drawing light distribution pattern PD is formed as an inverted projection image of this image.

[0140] Since the light transmitting region 542aA of this drawing light distribution pattern PD is located on a vertical plane passing through the rear focal point F of the projection lens 30, it is formed as a clear light distribution pattern, similar to the case of this embodiment.

[0141] Even when the configuration of this modified example is adopted, it is possible to increase the efficiency of use of the light emitted from the light emitting element 20 with an inexpensive configuration, and to form a clear light distribution pattern for drawing PD.

[0142] In this case, even in this modified example, the drawing light distribution pattern PD can be formed as a light distribution pattern of amber color, which is the same as the light emission color of the front turn signal lamp 12, although the light emitting element 20 is configured as a white light emitting diode.

[0143] Also in this modified example, the multiple corner cubes 550 constituting the light-shielding region 542aB are formed so as to be recessed relative to the front surface 544a of the flat plate portion 544, and further, the front surface 544a of the flat plate portion 544 is located on a vertical plane displaced rearward of the lamp relative to the light-transmitting region 542aA, thereby obtaining the following advantageous effects.

[0144] That is, in the image generating member 540 as well, of the light that enters the lens portion 542 from the entrance surface 542b and reaches the exit surface 542a, the light that reaches the light-shielding region 542aB is retroreflected by the multiple corner cubes 550.

[0145] In this case, even if leakage light is emitted forward from the boundary between the corner cubes 550 due to insufficient molding of the image generating member 540, the shading area 542aB is displaced rearward of the lamp from the rear focal plane of the projection lens 30, so that the leakage light is irradiated forward of the lamp via the projection lens 30, thereby effectively preventing the inadvertent occurrence of mesh-like uneven light in the peripheral area of ​​the drawing light distribution pattern PD on the road surface 2 in front of the vehicle.

[0146] Next, a sixth modification of the above embodiment will be described.

[0147] FIG. 15 is a view similar to FIG. 4, showing an image generating member 640 of a drawing lamp 610 according to this variation.

[0148] As shown in FIG. 15, the basic configuration of the image generating member 640 of this modified example is the same as that of the image generating member 540 of the fifth modified example described above, but the configuration of the light-transmitting region 642aA on the exit surface 642a of the lens portion 642 is partially different from that of the fifth modified example described above.

[0149] That is, this modification is different from the fifth modification in that the light-transmitting region 642aA is formed into a concave curved surface. Specifically, the light-transmitting region 642aA is configured by a concave curved surface formed so as to make point contact with a vertical plane passing through the rear focal point F of the projection lens 30 on the optical axis Ax.

[0150] Therefore, in the image generating member 640 of this modified example, light that enters through the entrance surface 642b of the lens portion 642 and reaches the light-transmitting area 642aA of the exit surface 642a is emitted into the space in front of the lamp as light that is slightly diffused around the optical axis Ax, and enters the projection lens 30.

[0151] In this modification, the light-transmitting region 642aA has the same outer shape as the light-transmitting region 542aA in the fifth modification when viewed from the front of the lamp. Moreover, the light-shielding region 642aB surrounding the light-transmitting region 642aA is formed of a plurality of corner cubes 650 similar to the plurality of corner cubes 550 in the fifth modification.

[0152] Even when the configuration of this modified example is adopted, it is possible to form a drawing light distribution pattern similar to the drawing light distribution pattern PD formed in the above-described fifth modified example.

[0153] In this case, in this modified example, since the light-transmitting region 642aA of the exit surface 642a of the image generating member 640 is formed in a concave curved shape, the image that is the basis of the drawing light distribution pattern can be formed as an image that is less affected by the field curvature, and thus the drawing light distribution pattern can be formed as a light distribution pattern that is even clearer than the drawing light distribution pattern PD formed in the above-mentioned fifth modified example.

[0154] Next, a seventh modification of the above embodiment will be described.

[0155] FIG. 16 is a view similar to FIG. 3, showing a drawing lamp 710 according to this modified example.

[0156] As shown in FIG. 16, the basic configuration of this modified example is similar to that of the above embodiment, but the configuration of the image generating member 740 and the arrangement of the light emitting elements 20 are different from those of the above embodiment, and it also differs from the above embodiment in that a reflector 760 is disposed between the light emitting elements 20 and the image generating member 740.

[0157] That is, the image generating member 740 of this modified example is also made of a light-transmitting member (specifically, an amber-colored resin member), but the portion corresponding to the lens portion 42 in the image generating member 40 of the above embodiment is made as a central flat plate portion 742 that extends flat and is flush with the surrounding flat plate portion 744. The image generating member 740 is also provided with a horizontal surface portion 746 that is formed so as to extend flat along the horizontal surface from the lower edge of the flat plate portion 744 toward the rear of the lamp.

[0158] In the image generating member 740 of this modified example, a light transmitting region 742aA and a light blocking region 742aB are formed on an exit surface 742a of a central flat plate portion 742, similar to the image generating member 40 of the above embodiment.

[0159] In this modified example, the light emitting element 20 is disposed on the rear side of the image generating member 740, and this light emitting element 20 is mounted on the substrate 722 with its light emitting surface 20a facing vertically upward. This substrate 722 is supported on the upper surface of the horizontal surface portion 746 of the image generating member 740.

[0160] Furthermore, in this modified example, a reflector 760 is disposed so as to cover the light emitting element 20 from above. The reflector 760 has a reflective surface 760a in the shape of a paraboloid of revolution with the light emitting center of the light emitting element 20 as its focal point, and the reflective surface 760a reflects the light emitted from the light emitting center of the light emitting element 20 as parallel light toward the front of the lamp. The reflector 760 is supported by a flange portion 760b formed at its lower end on the upper surface of the horizontal surface portion 746 of the image generating member 740.

[0161] In the image generating member 740 of this modified example, of the reflected light from the reflector 760 that enters through the incident surface 742b of its central flat plate portion 742 and reaches its exit surface 742a, the light that reaches the light-transmitting region 742aA is emitted directly into the space in front of the lamp, while the light that reaches the light-shielding region 742aB is totally reflected (i.e., retroreflected) in the opposite direction toward the incident surface 742b by multiple corner cubes 750.

[0162] Even when the configuration of this modified example is adopted, it is possible to form a light distribution pattern for drawing similar to the light distribution pattern for drawing PA formed in the above embodiment.

[0163] In this case, the image generating member 740 of this modified example is configured so that a plurality of corner cubes 750 that constitute a light-transmitting region 742aA are formed on the exit surface 742a of the central flat plate portion 742, which has a substantially constant thickness, and therefore it is possible to effectively suppress the occurrence of sink marks during molding, thereby improving the shape precision of each of the plurality of corner cubes 750.

[0164] Furthermore, the image generating member 740 of this modified example has a horizontal surface portion 746 formed so as to extend flat along a horizontal plane from the lower edge of the flat portion 744 toward the rear of the lamp, and this horizontal surface portion 746 is configured to support the substrate 722 on which the light emitting element 20 is mounted and the reflector 760, thereby improving the accuracy of the positional relationship between the light emitting element 20, the reflector 760, and the light-transmitting region 742aA of the image generating member 740.

[0165] It should be noted that the numerical values ​​given as the specifications in the above embodiment and its modified examples are merely examples, and it goes without saying that these may be set to different values ​​as appropriate.

[0166] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the above embodiment and its modified examples, and various other modified configurations can be adopted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0167] 2 Road surface ahead of the vehicle 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710 Drawing lamps 12 Front turn signal lamp (turn signal lamp) 20 Light emitting element 20a Light emitting surface 22, 222, 422, 722 board 30, 430 Projection Lens 32, 432 Projection lens section 32a front 32b Rear 34, 434 Outer flange 36 Mounting flange 36a Locating pin 40, 340, 440, 540, 640, 740 Image-forming material 40a, 44a, 66a Pin insertion holes 42, 342, 442, 542, 642 Lens part 42a, 342a, 442a, 542a, 642a, 742a Output surface 42aA, 342aA, 442aA, 542aA, 642aA, 742aA Translucent area 42aB, 342aB, 442aB, 542aB, 642aB, 742aB Shading area 42b, 342b, 442b, 542b, 642b, 742b Entrance plane 44, 344, 544, 744 Flat plate part 50, 350, 450, 550, 650, 750 Corner Cube 60, 460 Heatsink 62 Main body 64 Heat dissipation fin 66 Mounting flange 72, 74 Screws 100 vehicles 224 Coating 544a front 742 Central plate part 746 Horizontal part 760 Reflector 760a reflective surface 760b Flange part Ax optical axis F back focus L1 border L2 Outer rim PA, PB, PC, PD Light distribution pattern for drawing PBa, PBb, PBc, PCa, PCb, PCc Light distribution pattern

Claims

1. A drawing lamp configured to form a drawing light distribution pattern by irradiating light emitted from a light emitting element forward through a projection lens, an image generating member configured to generate an image serving as a basis for the drawing light distribution pattern by blocking a portion of the light emitted from the light emitting element is disposed between the light emitting element and the projection lens; the image generating member is made of a light-transmitting member having an incident surface for receiving the light emitted from the light-emitting element and an exit surface for emitting the light incident from the incident surface, a partial region of the exit surface is configured as a light-transmitting region for generating the image, and a peripheral region of the partial region is configured as a light-shielding region, The drawing lamp according to claim 1, wherein the light blocking area is configured by forming a plurality of corner cubes on the light exit surface.

2. 2. The drawing lamp according to claim 1, wherein a boundary line between said light transmitting region and said light blocking region is formed by ridgelines of said plurality of corner cubes.

3. 3. The drawing lamp according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting element is mounted on a white substrate.

4. 3. The drawing lamp according to claim 1, wherein the light exit surface is formed so as to extend along a plane.

5. 3. The drawing lamp according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of corner cubes are formed so as to form recesses with respect to the light exit surface.

6. 3. The drawing lamp according to claim 1, wherein the light-transmitting member is made of a colored transparent resin material.

7. The drawing lamp is configured to be turned on in synchronization with the turning on of the turn signal lamp, 7. The drawing lamp according to claim 6, wherein the light-transmitting member is made of an amber-colored resin material.

8. 3. The drawing lamp according to claim 1, wherein the light transmitting member has a light transmitting area of ​​the light exit surface formed in a concave curved shape.

Images