Vehicular illuminating device, and vehicular lighting fixture

Abstract

To provide a vehicular illuminating device that can restrain a position shift of a light emitting element with respect to a socket, and a vehicular lighting fixture.SOLUTION: A vehicular illuminating device according to an embodiment comprises: a socket; a light emitting module provided on the side of one end part of the socket, and comprising a light emitting element; a power supply terminal provided in a tapered hole extending inside a holding part provided in the socket, or the tapered hole extending inside the socket, and of which one end part is electrically connected to the light emitting module; and at least one of a first convex part provided in a side surface of the power supply terminal, and in contact with an inner wall of the tapered hole, and a second convex part provided in the inner wall of the tapered hole, and in contact with the side surface of the power supply terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp.

Background Art

[0002] From the viewpoints of energy saving and long life, instead of a vehicle lighting device including a lamp having a filament, etc., the spread of a vehicle lighting device including a light-emitting element such as a light-emitting diode has been progressing. Such a vehicle lighting device includes a socket and a light-emitting module provided on one end side of the socket. The light-emitting module includes, for example, a substrate and a light-emitting element provided on the substrate, and is electrically connected to a lighting circuit provided outside the vehicle lighting device via a plurality of power supply terminals.

[0003] When manufacturing such a vehicle lighting device, the ends of the plurality of power supply terminals provided in the socket are inserted into holes provided in the substrate of the light-emitting module. Further, the substrate of the light-emitting module is adhered to one end side of the socket.

[0004] Here, when the ends of the plurality of power supply terminals are inserted into the holes provided in the substrate of the light-emitting module, the position of the substrate of the light-emitting module with respect to the socket, and thus the position of the light-emitting element with respect to the socket may shift.

[0005] The socket is mounted on a housing provided in a vehicle lamp. Therefore, if the position of the light-emitting element with respect to the socket shifts, the position of the light-emitting element with respect to the vehicle lamp shifts, so there is a possibility that a predetermined light distribution characteristic cannot be obtained. Therefore, development of a technology capable of suppressing the shift of the position of the light-emitting element with respect to the socket has been desired.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp that can suppress displacement of the position of a light-emitting element with respect to a socket.

MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0008] A vehicle lighting device according to an embodiment includes: a socket; a light-emitting module provided on one end side of the socket and having a light-emitting element; a tapered hole extending inside a holding portion provided in the socket, or a power supply terminal provided in the tapered hole extending inside the socket, one end of which is electrically connected to the light-emitting module; and at least one of a first convex portion provided on a side surface of the power supply terminal and contacting an inner wall of the tapered hole, and a second convex portion provided on the inner wall of the tapered hole and contacting the side surface of the power supply terminal.

EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp that can suppress displacement of the position of a light-emitting element with respect to a socket.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be exemplified while referring to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0012] The vehicle lighting device 1 according to the present embodiment can be provided, for example, in an automobile, a railway vehicle, or the like. Examples of the vehicle lighting device 1 provided in an automobile include a front combination lamp (for example, a combination of a daytime running lamp (DRL), a position lamp, a turn signal lamp, etc. as appropriate), a rear combination lamp (for example, a combination of a stop lamp, a tail lamp, a turn signal lamp, a back lamp, a fog lamp, etc. as appropriate), and the like. However, the use of the vehicle lighting device 1 is not limited to these.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view for exemplifying the vehicle lighting device 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the vehicle lighting device 1 in FIG. 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the vehicle lighting device 1 is provided with, for example, a socket 10, a light-emitting module 20, a power supply unit 30, and a heat transfer unit 40. 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. Note that the central axis 10a of the socket 10 (mounting portion 11) can be substantially coaxial with the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1.

[0014] The mounting portion 11 is provided on the surface of the flange 13 on the side opposite to the side where the heat dissipation fins 14 are provided. 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.

[0015] The bayonet 12 is provided, for example, on the 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 can be provided. The bayonet 12 is used when mounting the vehicle lighting device 1 to the housing 101 of the vehicle lamp 100 described later. The bayonet 12 can be used for a twist lock.

[0016] The flange 13 is plate-shaped. The flange 13 is, for example, disk-shaped. The side surface of the flange 13 is located outside the vehicle lighting device 1 compared to the side surface of the bayonet 12.

[0017] The heat dissipation fins 14 are provided on the flange 13 on the side opposite to the mounting portion 11 side. At least one heat dissipation fin 14 can be provided. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of heat dissipation fins 14 can be provided on the socket 10. The plurality of heat dissipation fins 14 can be arranged in a predetermined direction. The heat dissipation fins 14 are, for example, plate-shaped or cylindrical.

[0018] The connector holder 15 is provided on the flange 13 on the side opposite to the mounting portion 11 side. The connector holder 15 can be provided side by side with the heat dissipation fins 14. The connector holder 15 is cylindrical, and a connector 105 having a seal member 105a inside is inserted therein.

[0019] The socket 10 has a function of holding the light emitting module 20 and the power supply unit 30, and a function of transferring the heat generated in the light emitting module 20 to the outside. Therefore, the socket 10 is preferably formed from a material with high thermal conductivity. The socket 10 can be formed from a metal such as an aluminum alloy, for example.

[0020] In addition, the socket 10 can also be formed of a highly thermally conductive resin. The highly thermally conductive resin is, for example, a resin such as PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) or Nylon, mixed with fillers such as carbon or aluminum oxide.

[0021] The light-emitting module 20 (substrate 21) is provided on one end side of the socket 10. For example, the light-emitting module 20 (substrate 21) is directly or indirectly adhered to the mounting portion 11. The light-emitting module 20 has, for example, a substrate 21, a light-emitting element 22, a frame portion 23, a sealing portion 24, and a circuit element 25.

[0022] The substrate 21 has a plate shape. The planar shape of the substrate 21 (the shape when viewed from the direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1) is, for example, substantially square. The substrate 21 is formed of, for example, an inorganic material such as ceramics (for example, aluminum oxide or aluminum nitride), an organic material such as paper phenol or glass epoxy, or the like. Further, the substrate 21 may be a metal core substrate in which the surface of a metal plate is coated with an insulating material. The substrate 21 may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure.

[0023] In addition, a wiring pattern 21a is provided on the surface of the substrate 21. The wiring pattern 21a is formed of, for example, a material mainly composed of silver or a material mainly composed of copper. Further, a coating portion for covering the wiring pattern 21a and a film-like resistor described later can also be provided. The coating portion can include, for example, a glass material.

[0024] The light-emitting element 22 is provided on the upper surface of the substrate 21 (the surface of the substrate 21 opposite to the socket 10 side). The light-emitting element 22 is joined to the wiring pattern 21a. At least one light-emitting element 22 can be provided. When a plurality of light-emitting elements 22 are provided, the plurality of light-emitting elements 22 can be connected in series.

[0025] The light-emitting element 22 can be, for example, a light-emitting diode, an organic light-emitting diode, a laser diode, or the like.

[0026] The light-emitting element 22 can also 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 lead wires such as a bullet type. The light-emitting element 22 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a chip-shaped light-emitting element.

[0027] In this case, considering the miniaturization of the light-emitting module 20 and thus the miniaturization of the vehicle lighting device 1, it is preferable to use a chip-shaped light-emitting element. In the following, as an example, the case where the light-emitting element 22 is a chip-shaped light-emitting element will be described.

[0028] When providing one light-emitting element 22, for example, the center of one light-emitting element 22 can be provided at the position of the central axis 10a of the socket 10. When providing a plurality of light-emitting elements 22, for example, the centers of the plurality of light-emitting elements 22 can be provided at positions that are rotationally symmetric on the circumference centered on the central axis 10a of the socket 10. Note that the number and arrangement of the light-emitting elements 22 can be appropriately changed according to the use of the vehicle lighting device 1, the required light amount, luminance distribution, and the like.

[0029] The chip-shaped light-emitting element 22 is joined to the wiring pattern 21a by COB (Chip On Board). For example, the chip-shaped light-emitting element 22 can be joined to the wiring pattern 21a using silver paste or solder. Note that surface-mount type light-emitting elements and light-emitting elements having lead wires such as bullet types can be joined (soldered) to the wiring pattern 21a using solder.

[0030] The chip-shaped light-emitting element 22 may be any of a top electrode type light-emitting element, a top and bottom electrode type light-emitting element, and a flip chip type light-emitting element. The top electrode of the top electrode type light-emitting element and the top electrode of the top and bottom electrode type light-emitting element can be electrically connected to the wiring pattern 21a, for example, using a wire bonding method.

[0031] The frame portion 23 is provided on the substrate 21. The frame portion 23 is adhered 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 of, for example, a thermoplastic resin. The frame portion 23 can have a function of defining a formation range of the sealing portion 24 and a function of a reflector. The contour of the planar shape of the frame portion 23 can be, for example, a quadrangle or a circle. The contour of the planar shape of the frame portion 23 can be appropriately changed according to the required luminance distribution and the like.

[0032] The sealing portion 24 is provided inside the frame portion 23. The sealing portion 24 is provided so as to cover the region 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 translucency. For example, the resin is a silicone resin or the like. Further, a phosphor can also be included in the resin. For example, the resin can be filled inside the frame portion 23 using a dispenser or the like.

[0033] In the case where the light-emitting element 22 is a surface-mount type light-emitting element or a light-emitting element having lead wires such as a bullet type, the frame portion 23 and the sealing portion 24 can be omitted.

[0034] The circuit element 25 can be a passive element or an active element used to constitute a light-emitting circuit having the light-emitting element 22. The circuit element 25 is provided on the substrate 21. The circuit element 25 is provided, for example, around the frame portion 23 and joined to the wiring pattern 21a. The circuit element 25 can be joined (soldered) to the wiring pattern 21a using solder, for example.

[0035] The circuit element 25 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a protection element 25a, a resistor 25b, and a control element 25c. However, the type of the circuit element 25 is not limited to the exemplified ones, and can be appropriately changed according to the configuration of the light-emitting circuit having the light-emitting element 22. For example, in addition to those described above, the circuit element 25 may be a capacitor, a positive characteristic thermistor, a negative characteristic thermistor, an inductor, a surge absorber, a varistor, a transistor, an integrated circuit, an arithmetic element, or the like.

[0036] The protection 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 protection element 25a can be, for example, a diode. The protection element 25a exemplified in FIG. 1 is a surface-mount type diode.

[0037] The resistor 25b can be, for example, a surface-mount type resistor, a resistor having lead wires (metal oxide film resistor), a film-like resistor formed using a screen printing method, or the like. Note that the resistor 25b exemplified in FIG. 1 is a surface-mount type resistor. The resistor 25b is connected in series with the light-emitting element 22. The resistor 25b is provided to make the value of the current flowing through the light-emitting element 22 fall within a predetermined range. Note that the resistor 25b can also have a function of suppressing an excessive voltage from being applied to the light-emitting element 22.

[0038] The control element 25c is provided, for example, to switch the voltage applied to the light-emitting element 22 or to perform temperature derating. However, the functions and applications of the control element 25c are not limited to the exemplified ones. The control element 25c can be, for example, a transistor or an integrated circuit. Note that the control element 25c exemplified in FIG. 1 is a surface-mount type integrated circuit.

[0039] The heat transfer part 40 is provided between the socket 10 and the light emitting module 20 (substrate 21). For example, the heat transfer part 40 can be adhered to the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. Also, the heat transfer part 40 can be adhered inside the recess provided on the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a, the heat transfer part 40 can be attached inside the recess via heat conductive grease, or the heat transfer part 40 can be embedded inside the recess using an insert molding method.

[0040] The heat transfer part 40 is formed from a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat transfer part 40 is formed from a metal such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, copper, or a copper alloy. Note that, for example, when the heat generated in the light emitting module 20 is relatively small, or when the socket 10 is formed from metal, etc., the heat transfer part 40 can be omitted. When omitting the heat transfer part 40, the light emitting module 20 (substrate 21) is adhered to the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a, etc.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2, the power supply part 30 has, for example, a plurality of power supply terminals 31 and a holding part 32. Note that, in FIGS. 1 and 2, the case where three power supply terminals 31 are arranged side by side in one direction is illustrated, but the number of power supply terminals 31 may be two or more. Also, the plurality of power supply terminals 31 do not necessarily need to be arranged side by side in one direction. For example, the power supply terminals 31 can be provided for each side of the substrate 21 having a substantially rectangular planar shape. However, if the power supply terminals 31 are arranged side by side in one direction, miniaturization of the vehicle lighting device 1 can be achieved.

[0042] The plurality of power supply terminals 31 can be rod-shaped. One end of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 protrudes from the bottom surface 11a1 of the concave portion 11a. One end of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 is inserted into a hole penetrating the substrate 21 in the thickness direction. The end of the power supply terminal 31 inserted into the hole of the substrate 21 protrudes from the surface of the substrate 21 on the side opposite to the socket 10 side and is soldered to the wiring pattern 21a provided on the substrate 21. That is, one end of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 is electrically connected to the light emitting module 20. The other end of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 is exposed inside the hole of the connector holder 15. A connector 105 is fitted onto the plurality of power supply terminals 31 exposed inside the hole of the connector holder 15. The plurality of power supply terminals 31 are formed of a metal such as a copper alloy, for example.

[0043] Here, the pitch dimension of the hole into which the end of the power supply terminal 31 is inserted in the connector 105 may be different from the pitch dimension of the hole into which the end of the power supply terminal 31 is inserted in the substrate 21. In such a case, in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31 extends, the position of the end of the power supply terminal 31 on the light emitting module 20 side and the position of the end of the power supply terminal 31 on the connector holder 15 side can be changed.

[0044] For example, as shown in FIG. 2, in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31a extends, the end 31aa of the power supply terminal 31a on the light emitting module 20 side can be provided at a position displaced from the central axis of the main body portion 31ab of the power supply terminal 31a. Also, the end 31ac of the power supply terminal 31a on the connector holder 15 side can be provided at the position of the central axis of the main body portion 31ab of the power supply terminal 31a. The dimensions of the ends 31aa and 31ac in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31a extends are smaller than the dimension of the main body portion 31ab. In this case, the dimensions of the ends 31aa and 31ac may be the same or different. The dimension of the end 31aa can be appropriately changed according to the dimension of the hole provided in the substrate 21. The dimension of the end 31ac can be appropriately changed according to the specifications of the connector 105.

[0045] For example, as shown in FIG. 2, in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31b extends, an end portion 31ba of the power supply terminal 31b on the light emitting module 20 side and an end portion 31bc of the power supply terminal 31a on the connector holder 15 side can be provided at the position of the central axis of the main body portion 31bb of the power supply terminal 31b. In the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31b extends, the dimensions of the end portion 31ba and the end portion 31bc are smaller than the dimension of the main body portion 31bb.

[0046] In this case, in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31b extends, the dimensions of the end portion 31ba and the end portion 31bc may be the same or different. The dimension of the end portion 31ba can be appropriately changed according to the dimension of the hole provided in the substrate 21. The dimension of the end portion 31bc can be appropriately changed according to the specification of the connector 105.

[0047] That is, the position and dimension of the end portion of the power supply terminal 31 on the light emitting module 20 side and the position and dimension of the end portion of the power supply terminal 31 on the connector holder 15 side can be appropriately changed according to the arrangement of the circuit element 25 in the substrate 21 and the specification of the connector 105, etc.

[0048] Also, in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31a (31b) extends, the dimension of the main body portion 31ab may be the same as or different from the dimension of the main body portion 31bb.

[0049] As described above, the socket 10 is preferably formed of a material having a high thermal conductivity. However, a material having a high thermal conductivity may have conductivity. For example, a metal or a high thermal conductivity resin containing a filler using carbon has conductivity. Therefore, the holding portion 32 is provided to insulate between the plurality of power supply terminals 31 and the conductive socket 10. The holding portion 32 can be press-fitted into a hole provided in the socket 10 or adhered to the inner wall of the hole, for example.

[0050] In addition, when the socket 10 is formed of a highly heat-conductive resin having insulating properties (for example, a highly heat-conductive resin containing a filler using aluminum oxide), the holding portion 32 can be omitted. When the holding portion 32 is omitted, the plurality of power supply terminals 31 are held by the socket 10.

[0051] Here, when the light-emitting module 20 (substrate 21) is adhered to one end side of the socket 10, one end portions (for example, end portions 31aa, 31ba) of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 are inserted into holes penetrating the substrate 21 in the thickness direction.

[0052] Therefore, if the positions of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 with respect to the socket 10 are displaced, the position of the substrate 21 of the light-emitting module 20 with respect to the socket 10, and thus the position of the light-emitting element 22 with respect to the socket 10 will be displaced.

[0053] As will be described later, the mounting portion 11 of the socket 10 is mounted on a housing 101 provided in the vehicle lamp 100. Therefore, if the position of the light-emitting element 22 with respect to the socket 10 is displaced, the position of the light-emitting element 22 with respect to the vehicle lamp 100 will be displaced, so that there is a possibility that a predetermined light distribution characteristic cannot be obtained.

[0054] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, the hole 32a into which the main body portion 31ab of the holding portion 32 is inserted is a tapered hole. The hole 32a extends inside the holding portion 32. The hole 32a extends, for example, in a direction along the central axis 10a of the socket 10. The dimension of the hole 32a in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the hole 32a extends gradually increases as it moves away from the light-emitting module 20.

[0055] In addition, a convex portion 31ab1 (corresponding to an example of the first convex portion) can be provided on the side surface of the main body portion 31ab. In a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31a extends, the convex portion 31ab1 protrudes from the side surface of the main body portion 31ab. The convex portion 31ab1 can be provided, for example, on each of the side surfaces of the main body portion 31ab that face each other. The shape of the convex portion 31ab1 can be a shape composed of at least one of a straight line and a curve. The shape of the convex portion 31ab1 illustrated in FIG. 2 is an arc shape.

[0056] When the main body portion 31ab is inserted into the hole 32a, the tip of the convex portion 31ab1 comes into contact with the inner wall of the hole 32a. In this case, the tip of the convex portion 31ab1 may slightly bite into the inner wall of the hole 32a. If the shape of the convex portion 31ab1 has a corner, the corner portion can be made to bite into the inner wall of the hole 32a.

[0057] The hole 32b into which the main body portion 31bb of the holding portion 32 is inserted is a tapered hole. The hole 32b extends inside the holding portion 32. The hole 32b extends, for example, in a direction along the central axis 10a of the socket 10. The dimension of the hole 32b in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the hole 32b extends gradually increases as it moves away from the light emitting module 20. For example, the hole 32b can be the same as the hole 32a.

[0058] In addition, a convex portion 31bb1 (corresponding to an example of the first convex portion) can be provided on the side surface of the main body portion 31bb. In a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31b extends, the convex portion 31bb1 protrudes from the side surface of the main body portion 31bb. The convex portion 31bb1 can be provided, for example, on each of the side surfaces of the main body portion 31bb that face each other. The shape of the convex portion 31bb1 can be a shape composed of at least one of a straight line and a curve. The shape of the convex portion 31bb1 illustrated in FIG. 2 is an arc shape. For example, the convex portion 31bb1 can be the same as the convex portion 31ab1.

[0059] When the main body portion 31bb is inserted into the hole 32b, the tip of the convex portion 31bb1 comes into contact with the inner wall of the hole 32b. In this case, the tip of the convex portion 31bb1 may slightly bite into the inner wall of the hole 32b. If the shape of the convex portion 31bb1 has corners, the corner portions can be made to bite into the inner wall of the hole 32b.

[0060] If the hole 32a (32b) is a tapered hole, the main body portion 31ab (31bb) can be inserted into the hole 32a (32b) to position the power supply terminal 31a (31b) with respect to the socket 10.

[0061] Therefore, the position of the substrate 21 of the light emitting module 20 with respect to the socket 10, and thus the position of the light emitting element 22 with respect to the socket 10, can be adjusted. If the position of the light emitting element 22 with respect to the socket 10 can be adjusted, it becomes easier to obtain predetermined light distribution characteristics.

[0062] Also, if the tip of the convex portion 31ab1 (31bb1) is in contact with or slightly bites into the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b), it is possible to suppress the displacement of the position of the power supply terminal 31a (31b) with respect to the socket 10 due to vibrations during running or the like.

[0063] The vicinity of the end of the main body portion 31ab (31bb) on the light emitting module 20 side may be in contact with the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b), or there may be a slight gap. In this case, if the vicinity of the end of the main body portion 31ab (31bb) on the light emitting module 20 side is in contact with the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b), the power supply terminal 31a (31b) can be held by the tip of the convex portion 31ab1 (31bb1) and the vicinity of the end of the main body portion 31ab (31bb) on the light emitting module 20 side. Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the displacement of the position of the power supply terminal 31a (31b) with respect to the socket 10 due to vibrations during running or the like.

[0064] However, if the distance at which the vicinity of the end of the main body portion 31ab (31bb) on the light-emitting module 20 side contacts the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b) becomes long, the resistance when inserting (press-fitting) the power supply terminal 31a (31b) into the hole 32a (32b) increases. If the resistance when inserting the power supply terminal 31a (31b) into the hole 32a (32b) becomes too large, it becomes difficult to insert the power supply terminal 31a (31b) into the hole 32a (32b).

[0065] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, a diameter-expanded portion 32a1 is provided at the opening of the hole 32a on the light-emitting module 20 side. The dimension of the diameter-expanded portion 32a1 in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the hole 32a extends is larger than the dimension of the end portion of the main body portion 31ab on the light-emitting module 20 side. For example, the diameter-expanded portion 32a1 can be a frustum-shaped recess.

[0066] A diameter-expanded portion 32b1 is provided at the opening of the hole 32b on the light-emitting module 20 side. The dimension of the diameter-expanded portion 32b1 in the direction orthogonal to the direction in which the hole 32b extends is larger than the dimension of the end portion of the main body portion 31bb on the light-emitting module 20 side. For example, the diameter-expanded portion 32b1 can be a frustum-shaped recess. For example, the diameter-expanded portion 32b1 can be the same as the diameter-expanded portion 32a1.

[0067] The side surface of the power supply terminal 31a (31b) does not contact the inner wall of the diameter-expanded portion 32a1 (32b1). Therefore, the distance at which the vicinity of the end of the main body portion 31ab (31bb) on the light-emitting module 20 side contacts the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b) can be shortened, so that the resistance when inserting the power supply terminal 31a (31b) into the hole 32a (32b) can be reduced. Therefore, the insertion operation of the power supply terminal 31a (31b) becomes easy.

[0068] In the above, the case where the holding portion 32 is provided has been described. However, as described above, there may be a case where the holding portion 32 is omitted. When the holding portion 32 is omitted, the holes 32a (32b) and the diameter-expanded portions 32a1 (32b1) may be provided in the socket 10.

[0069] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view for illustrating the diameter-expanded portion 32c according to another embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the diameter-expanded portion 32c can be a cylindrical recess. Even if the diameter-expanded portion 32c having such a shape is provided, the same operational effects as those of the diameter-expanded portion 32a1 (32b1) which is a frustum-shaped recess described above can be obtained. That is, the resistance when inserting the power supply terminal 31a (31b) into the hole 32a (32b) can be reduced. Therefore, the insertion operation of the power supply terminal 31a (31b) becomes easy.

[0070] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view for illustrating the convex portion 32d (corresponding to an example of the second convex portion) according to another embodiment. The convex portions 31ab1 (31bb1) described above were provided on the side surfaces of the main body portions 31ab (31bb), but the convex portion 32d according to the present embodiment is provided on the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b). In a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the power supply terminal 31a (31b) extends, the convex portion 32d protrudes from the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b). The convex portion 32d can be provided at positions on the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b) that face each other. The shape of the convex portion 32d can be a shape composed of at least either a straight line or a curve. The shape of the convex portion 32d illustrated in FIG. 4 is an arc shape.

[0071] When the main body portion 31ab (31bb) is inserted into the hole 32a (32b), the tip of the convex portion 32d comes into contact with the side surface of the main body portion 31ab (31bb). In this case, the side surface of the main body portion 31ab (31bb) may slightly bite into the tip of the convex portion 32d. If the convex portion 32d is provided, the same effects as those of the convex portions 31ab1 (31bb1) described above can be obtained.

[0072] Note that the convex portion may be provided on at least either the side surface of the main body portion 31ab (31bb) or the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b).

[0073] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view for illustrating the main body portion 31c according to another embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the side surface of the main body portion 31c can be an inclined surface. In this case, the inclination angle of the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b) can be made slightly larger than the inclination angle of the side surface of the main body portion 31c. Even in this way, since the side surface of the main body portion 31c can be brought into contact with the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b) in the vicinity of the end portion of the main body portion 31c on the light emitting module 20 side, it is possible to suppress displacement of the position of the main body portion 31c (power supply terminal 31) with respect to the socket 10, and consequently, it is possible to suppress displacement of the position of the light emitting element 22 with respect to the socket 10.

[0074] Further, a convex portion 31ab1 (31bb1) described above may be further provided on the side surface of the main body portion 31c, or a convex portion 32d described above may be further provided on the inner wall of the hole 32a (32b).

[0075] (Vehicle lamp) In one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lamp 100 including the vehicle lighting device 1 can be provided. The above description regarding the vehicle lighting device 1 and the modified examples of the vehicle lighting device 1 (for example, those in which a person skilled in the art appropriately adds, deletes, or changes the design of components and has the features of the present invention) can all be applied to the vehicle lamp 100.

[0076] In the following, as an example, a case where the vehicle lamp 100 is a front combination lamp provided in an automobile will be described. However, the vehicle lamp 100 is not limited to a front combination lamp provided in an automobile. The vehicle lamp 100 may be any vehicle lamp provided in an automobile, a railway vehicle, or the like.

[0077] FIG. 6 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view for illustrating the vehicle lamp 100. As shown in FIG. 6, the vehicle lamp 100 has, for example, a vehicle lighting device 1, a housing 101, a cover 102, an optical element 103, a seal member 104, and a connector 105.

[0078] The housing 101 has the vehicle lighting device 1 attached thereto. The housing 101 holds the mounting portion 11. The housing 101 has a box shape with one end open. The housing 101 is formed of, for example, a resin that does not transmit light. An attachment hole 101a into which the portion of the mounting portion 11 provided with the bayonet 12 is inserted is provided on the bottom surface of the housing 101. A recess into which the bayonet 12 provided on the mounting portion 11 is inserted is provided at the periphery of the attachment hole 101a. Although the case where the attachment hole 101a is directly provided in the housing 101 has been illustrated, an attachment member having the attachment hole 101a may be provided in the housing 101.

[0079] When attaching the vehicle lighting device 1 to the vehicle lamp 100, the portion of the mounting portion 11 provided with the bayonet 12 is inserted into the attachment hole 101a, and the vehicle lighting device 1 is rotated. Then, for example, the bayonet 12 is held by the fitting portion provided at the periphery of the attachment hole 101a. Such an attachment method is called a twist lock.

[0080] The cover 102 is provided so as to close the opening of the housing 101. The cover 102 is formed of a translucent resin or the like. The cover 102 can also have functions such as a lens.

[0081] The optical element 103 has the light emitted from the vehicle lighting device 1 incident thereon. The optical element 103 performs functions such as reflection, diffusion, light guiding, light collection, and formation of a predetermined light distribution pattern of the light emitted from the vehicle lighting device 1. 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.

[0082] The seal member 104 is provided between the flange 13 and the housing 101. The seal member 104 has an annular shape and is formed of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone resin.

[0083] 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 internal space of the housing 101 can be sealed by the seal member 104. Further, due to the elastic force of the seal member 104, the bayonet 12 is pressed against the housing 101. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the vehicle lighting device 1 from detaching from the housing 101.

[0084] The connector 105 is fitted to the ends of a plurality of power supply terminals 31 exposed inside the connector holder 15. A lighting circuit or the like is electrically connected to the connector 105. Therefore, by fitting the connector 105 to the ends of the plurality of power supply terminals 31, the lighting circuit or the like and the light emitting element 22 can be electrically connected.

[0085] Further, the connector 105 is provided with a seal member 105a. When the connector 105 having the seal member 105a is inserted into the connector holder 15, the inside of the connector holder 15 is sealed so as to be watertight.

[0086] As mentioned above, several embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated. However, 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, replacements, changes, 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 invention described in the claims and its equivalent scope. Also, the above-described embodiments can be implemented in combination with each other.

[0087] Hereinafter, appendices regarding the above-described embodiments will be shown.

[0088] (Appendix 1) A socket and; A light emitting module provided on one end side of the socket and having a light emitting element; A tapered hole extending inside the holding portion provided in the socket, or a power supply terminal provided in the tapered hole extending inside the socket, with one end electrically connected to the light-emitting module; At least one of a first convex portion provided on a side surface of the power supply terminal and contacting an inner wall of the tapered hole, and a second convex portion provided on the inner wall of the tapered hole and contacting the side surface of the power supply terminal; A vehicle lighting device comprising the above.

[0089] (Appendix 2) The tapered hole extends in a direction along the central axis of the socket, and in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the tapered hole extends, the dimension of the tapered hole gradually increases as it moves away from the light-emitting module. The vehicle lighting device according to Appendix 1.

[0090] (Appendix 3) An enlarged diameter portion is provided at an opening of the tapered hole on the light-emitting module side. The vehicle lighting device according to Appendix 1 or 2.

[0091] (Appendix 4) On the inner wall of the enlarged diameter portion, the side surface of the power supply terminal does not contact. The vehicle lighting device according to Appendix 3.

[0092] (Appendix 5) A vehicle lighting device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 4; A housing to which the vehicle lighting device is attached; A vehicle lamp comprising the above.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0093] 1 Vehicle lighting device, 1a Central axis, 10 Socket, 10a Central axis, 11 Mounting portion, 20 Light-emitting module, 21 Substrate, 22 Light-emitting element, 30 Power supply unit, 31 Power supply terminal, 31a Power supply terminal, 31ab Body portion, 31ab1 Convex portion, 31b Power supply terminal, 31bb Body portion, 31bb1 Convex portion, 31c Body portion, 32 Holding portion, 32a1 Enlarged diameter portion, 32b1 Enlarged diameter portion, 100 Vehicle lamp, 101 Housing

Claims

1. a socket; a light-emitting module provided on one end side of the socket and having a light-emitting element; a tapered hole extending inside a holding portion provided in the socket, or a power supply terminal provided in the tapered hole extending inside the socket, with one end electrically connected to the light-emitting module; at least one of a first convex portion provided on a side surface of the power supply terminal and contacting an inner wall of the tapered hole, and a second convex portion provided on the inner wall of the tapered hole and contacting the side surface of the power supply terminal; a vehicle lighting device comprising the above.

2. The tapered hole extends in a direction along a central axis of the socket, and a dimension of the tapered hole in a direction orthogonal to a direction in which the tapered hole extends gradually increases as it moves away from the light-emitting module. The vehicle lighting device according to Claim 1.

3. An enlarged diameter portion is provided at an opening of the tapered hole on the light-emitting module side. The vehicle lighting device according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. The side surface of the power supply terminal does not contact an inner wall of the enlarged diameter portion. The vehicle lighting device according to Claim 3.

5. The vehicle lighting device according to Claim 1; a housing to which the vehicle lighting device is attached; a vehicle lamp comprising the above.

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