Vehicular lighting device and vehicular lighting tool

Abstract

To provide a vehicular lighting device which can be mounted to a terminal of a vehicular lighting tool in a simple construction, and the vehicular lighting tool.SOLUTION: The vehicular lighting device includes: a base plate showing a plate shape; a light-emitting device provided on a first face of the base plate; a first protruded part provided at a first end of the base plate; a second protruded part provided at a second end opposite to the first end of the base plate; a first connection part provided near the first end of the base plate, electrically connected to an electrode having one polarity of the light-emitting device, and bent relative to the first face at its end side opposite to the side of being electrically connected to the light-emitting device; and a second connection part provided near the second end of the base plate, electrically connected to an electrode having the other polarity of the light-emitting device, and bent relative to the first face at its end side opposite to the side of being electrically connected to the light-emitting device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] There is a vehicle lighting device including a pair of bases and an airtight container provided between the bases and enclosing a filament. In recent years, from the viewpoints of energy saving and long life, vehicle lighting devices equipped with filaments have been increasingly replaced by vehicle lighting devices equipped with light emitting elements such as light emitting diodes.

[0003] Here, there are cases where it is required to use a vehicle lighting device equipped with a light emitting element that can be mounted on a terminal where a vehicle lighting device equipped with a filament was mounted. Therefore, a vehicle lighting device equipped with a light emitting element and having a base with the same shape as the base provided in the vehicle lighting device equipped with a filament has been proposed.

[0004] However, such a base is a metal part in which a cylindrical portion and a conical portion are integrally formed, so it is expensive. In addition, it is necessary to electrically connect the wiring pattern of the substrate on which the light emitting element is mounted and the base by wiring. Therefore, the man-hours increase, and there is a risk that the strength of the joint portion between the wiring and the base, and the strength of the joint portion between the wiring and the wiring pattern will be weakened.

[0005] Therefore, the development of a technology that can be mounted on the terminal of a vehicle lamp with a simple configuration 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 that can be attached to a terminal of a vehicle lamp with a simple configuration, and a vehicle lamp.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] The vehicle lighting device according to the embodiment includes a substrate having a plate shape; a light emitting element provided on a first surface of the substrate; a first convex portion provided at a first end of the substrate; a second convex portion provided at a second end of the substrate facing the first end; a first connection portion provided near the first end of the substrate, electrically connected to an electrode of one polarity of the light emitting element, and having an end portion side opposite to the side electrically connected to the light emitting element bent with respect to the first surface; and a second connection portion provided near the second end of the substrate, electrically connected to an electrode of the other polarity of the light emitting element, and having an end portion side opposite to the side electrically connected to the light emitting element bent with respect to the first surface.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device that can be attached to a terminal of a vehicle lamp with a simple configuration, and a vehicle lamp can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be illustrated with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted as appropriate. In addition, the arrows X, Y, and Z in each figure represent three mutually orthogonal directions. For example, the Z direction is a direction (thickness direction) perpendicular to the surface 10a of the substrate 10 provided in the vehicle lighting device 1. The X direction is a direction (length direction) in which the terminals 101a (corresponding to an example of the first terminal) and the terminals 101b (corresponding to an example of the second terminal) of the vehicle lamp 100 of the substrate 10 face each other. The Y direction is a direction (width direction) orthogonal to the direction in which the terminals 101a and the terminals 101b of the vehicle lamp 100 of the substrate 10 face each other.

[0012] (Vehicle lighting device) As the vehicle lighting device 1 according to the present embodiment, for example, those used for a dome lamp, a meter lamp, a map lamp, a trunk lamp, etc. provided in an automobile or a railway vehicle can be exemplified. However, the use of the vehicle lighting device 1 is not limited to these.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view for illustrating the vehicle lighting device 1 according to the present embodiment. Note that FIG. 1 is a schematic view when the vehicle lighting device 1 is viewed from the Z direction. FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 are schematic side views of the vehicle lighting device 1. Note that FIG. 2 is a schematic view when the vehicle lighting device 1 is viewed from the Y direction. FIG. 3 is a schematic view when the vehicle lighting device 1 is viewed from the X direction.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the vehicle lighting device 1 includes, for example, a substrate 10, a light emitting element 20, circuit components 30, and a connection portion 40 (corresponding to an example of a first connection portion or a second connection portion).

[0015] The substrate 10 has, for example, a plate shape and has a surface 10a (corresponding to an example of a first surface) and a surface 10b (corresponding to an example of a second surface) facing the surface 10a. The substrate 10 extends between the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100. The center line 10c of the substrate 10 in the Y direction can be the center line 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1.

[0016] A convex portion 10d (corresponding to an example of a first convex portion) is provided at one end of the substrate 10 in the X direction (corresponding to an example of a first end). A convex portion 10e (corresponding to an example of a second convex portion) is provided at the other end of the substrate 10 (corresponding to an example of a second end). The convex portions 10d and 10e can be provided integrally with the substrate 10. When viewed from the direction (Z direction) perpendicular to the surface 10a of the substrate 10, the center lines of the convex portion 10d and the convex portion 10e are, for example, on the extension of the center line 10c of the substrate 10. The dimensions of the convex portions 10d and 10e in the Z direction may be the same as or different from the dimensions of the substrate 10. The dimensions of the convex portions 10d and 10e in the Y direction can be, for example, smaller than the dimensions of the substrate 10. The dimensions and shapes of the convex portions 10d and 10e may be the same or different.

[0017] When the vehicle lighting device 1 is attached to the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100, the convex portion 10d is inserted into the hole 101a1 of the terminal 101a, and the convex portion 10e is inserted into the hole 101b1 of the terminal 101b. Therefore, the vehicle lighting device 1 is held by the terminals 101a and 101b on the vehicle lamp 100.

[0018] In the Y direction, the dimension of the substrate 10 is preferably 20 mm or less, for example, about 6.4 mm. In this way, it becomes easy to replace the vehicle lighting device equipped with the filament with the vehicle lighting device 1. In the Z direction, the dimension of the substrate 10 can be 0.8 mm or more and 2.2 mm or less, for example, about 1.6 mm.

[0019] However, the planar shape and dimensions of the substrate 10 are not necessarily limited to those exemplified. For example, in the Y direction, the dimension of the portion of the substrate 10 where the light-emitting element 20 is provided can be made larger than the dimensions of both ends of the substrate 10. If the dimension of the portion of the substrate 10 where the light-emitting element 20 is provided is increased, it becomes easy to change the number and arrangement of the light-emitting elements 20. Also, if the dimension of the portion of the substrate 10 where the light-emitting element 20 is provided in the Y direction is increased, when attaching and detaching the vehicle lighting device 1 to and from the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100, a finger can be placed on the portion with the larger dimension. Therefore, it becomes easy to attach and detach the vehicle lighting device 1 to and from the terminals 101a and 101b.

[0020] The substrate 10 can be formed from an insulating material. The substrate 10 can be formed from inorganic materials such as ceramics (for example, aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride, etc.), organic materials such as paper phenol and glass epoxy, etc. Also, the substrate 10 may be a metal core substrate in which the surface of a metal plate is coated with an insulating material.

[0021] When the amount of heat generated by the light-emitting element 20 is large, from the viewpoint of heat dissipation, it is preferable to form the substrate 10 using a material with high thermal conductivity. Examples of materials with high thermal conductivity include ceramics such as aluminum oxide and aluminum nitride, and metal core substrates. Also, the substrate 10 may have a single-layer structure or a multilayer structure.

[0022] A wiring pattern 11 can be provided on the surface 10a of the substrate 10. The wiring pattern 11 can be formed from a low-resistance metal such as silver, copper, or aluminum, for example.

[0023] For example, a mounting pad 11a and a pair of connection pads 11b are provided on the wiring pattern 11. The circuit component 30 is electrically connected to the mounting pad 11a. Therefore, the number, shape, arrangement, etc. of the mounting pads 11a can be appropriately changed according to the type and arrangement of the circuit component 30.

[0024] One of the connection pads 11b can be provided near one end of the substrate 10 in the X direction. The other connection pad 11b can be provided near the other end of the substrate 10 in the X direction. The pair of connection pads 11b can be provided at positions that are rotationally symmetric to each other around the center 10f of the substrate 10, for example.

[0025] Also, the wiring pattern 11 can be provided on the surface 10b of the substrate 10. The wiring pattern 11 provided on the surface 10a of the substrate 10 and the wiring pattern 11 provided on the surface 10b of the substrate 10 can be electrically connected by a conductive via or the like that penetrates the thickness direction of the substrate 10. If the wiring pattern 11 is also provided on the surface 10b of the substrate 10, at least one of the light-emitting element 20 and the circuit component 30 can be provided on the surface 10b of the substrate 10. Therefore, the type and number of circuit components 30 can be increased, making it easier to protect the vehicle lighting device 1 or to achieve multifunctionalization.

[0026] The light-emitting element 20 can be provided on at least one of the surfaces 10a and 10b of the substrate 10. In the case of the vehicle lighting device 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the light-emitting element 20 is provided on the surface 10a of the substrate 10.

[0027] At least one light-emitting element 20 can be provided. In the case of the vehicle lighting device 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, two light-emitting elements 20 are provided. When a plurality of light-emitting elements 20 are provided, the plurality of light-emitting elements 20 can be connected in series. The light-emitting element 20 is electrically connected to the mounting pad 11a of the wiring pattern 11. For example, the light-emitting element 20 can be soldered to the mounting pad 11a.

[0028] The light-emitting element 20 can be, for example, a light-emitting diode, an organic light-emitting diode, a laser diode, or the like.

[0029] There is no particular limitation on the type of the light-emitting element 20. The light-emitting element 20 can be, for example, 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 20 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 is a surface-mount type light-emitting element.

[0030] Also, the light-emitting element 20 can be a chip-shaped light-emitting element. The chip-shaped light-emitting element can be electrically connected to the wiring pattern 11 by, for example, COB (Chip On Board). For example, a chip-shaped light-emitting element can be electrically connected to the wiring pattern 11 using a silver paste or the like.

[0031] Also, when the light-emitting element is a chip-shaped light-emitting element, a frame-shaped member surrounding the chip-shaped light-emitting element and a sealing portion provided inside the frame-shaped member and covering the chip-shaped light-emitting element can be provided on the surface 10a (surface 10b) of the substrate 10. Further, the sealing portion can contain a phosphor.

[0032] The light emitting surface of the light emitting element 20 can be substantially parallel to the surface 10a (surface 10b) of the substrate 10. The light emitting element 20 mainly emits light in a direction perpendicular to the surface 10a (surface 10b) of the substrate 10 (the front side of the light emitting element 20). If the light emitting element 20 is provided on one surface 10a (surface 10b) of the substrate 10, the light distribution characteristics tend to be uneven. However, when the vehicle lighting device 1 is used for an in-vehicle lamp (for example, a room lamp, a meter lamp, a map lamp, a trunk lamp, etc.), it is only necessary to irradiate light on one side of the vehicle lighting device 1. Therefore, when the vehicle lighting device 1 is used for an in-vehicle lamp or the like, it is preferable to have such light distribution characteristics.

[0033] The number, size, arrangement, etc. of the light emitting elements 20 are not necessarily limited to those illustrated, and can be appropriately changed according to the size and use of the vehicle lighting device 1.

[0034] The circuit component 30 can be a passive element or an active element used to form a light emitting circuit having the light emitting element 20. The circuit component 30 can be, for example, a diode 31, a resistor 32, etc.

[0035] However, the type of the circuit component 30 is not necessarily limited to those illustrated, and can be appropriately changed according to the configuration of the light emitting circuit having the light emitting element 20. For example, in addition to the above-mentioned components, the circuit component 30 can also be a capacitor, a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, a Zener diode, an inductor, a surge absorber, a varistor, a transistor such as a FET or a bipolar transistor, an integrated circuit, an arithmetic element, etc. The integrated circuit can be, for example, one equipped with a constant current circuit, a temperature derating circuit, etc.

[0036] Here, the light emitting element 20 such as a light emitting diode has a polarity. Therefore, the diode 31 is provided so that a reverse voltage is not applied to the light emitting element 20. The diode 31 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a surface mount type diode.

[0037] The resistor 32 can be, for example, a surface mount resistor, a resistor with lead wires (metal oxide film resistor), a film resistor formed using a screen printing method, etc. Note that the resistor 32 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a surface mount resistor.

[0038] The resistor 32 is connected in series with the light emitting element 20. Since there are variations in the forward voltage characteristics of the light emitting element 22, the resistor 32 is provided to ensure that the value of the current flowing through the light emitting element 20 is within a predetermined range, and thus, the brightness (luminous flux, luminance, luminous intensity, illuminance) of the light emitted from the light emitting element 20 is within a predetermined range. For example, according to the forward voltage characteristics of the light emitting element 20, a resistor 32 with an appropriate resistance value is selected, or the resistance value of the resistor 32 is adjusted to ensure that the value of the current flowing through the light emitting element 20 is within a predetermined range. Also, the resistor 32 can have a function of suppressing an excessive current from flowing through the light emitting element 20.

[0039] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view for illustrating a vehicle lighting device 1b according to another embodiment. As described above, the light emitting element 20 has a polarity. Therefore, when the vehicle lighting device 1 is mounted on the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100, a directionality will occur. In this case, if there is no directionality in the mounting of the vehicle lighting device 1b, the mounting operation of the vehicle lighting device 1b will be facilitated.

[0040] For example, if a bridge circuit (bridge diode) is configured using four diodes, a non-polar circuit can be provided in the vehicle lighting device 1b. If a non-polar circuit is provided in the vehicle lighting device 1b, the directionality can be eliminated when the vehicle lighting device 1b is mounted on the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100.

[0041] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, two diodes 31a, which are two-element diodes, can be provided in the vehicle lighting device 1b. If two two-element diodes are provided, a bridge circuit (bridge diode) can be configured, so that a non-polarity circuit can be provided in the vehicle lighting device 1b.

[0042] Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the resistor 32a can be the aforementioned film resistor. When adjusting the aforementioned resistance value of the film resistor, a part of the film resistor can be removed. By removing a part of the film resistor, the resistance value can be increased. For example, if the film resistor is irradiated with laser light, a part of the film resistor can be easily removed.

[0043] Also, as shown in FIG. 4, a capacitor 33 can be provided. The capacitor 33 is provided, for example, for noise countermeasures and voltage smoothing.

[0044] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, for example, two connection parts 40 can be provided. The connection part 40 is electrically connected to the connection pad 11b of the wiring pattern 11. For example, the connection part 40 can be joined to the connection pad 11b using solder, a conductive adhesive, or the like. In this case, one connection part 40 is provided near one end of the substrate 10 and is electrically connected to an electrode of one polarity of the light-emitting element 20. The other connection part 40 is provided near the other end of the substrate 10 and is electrically connected to an electrode of the other polarity of the light-emitting element 20.

[0045] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the other connection part 40 can be provided on the side opposite to the side where one connection part 40 is provided with respect to the center line 10c of the substrate 10.

[0046] When the vehicle lighting devices 1 and 1b are attached to the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100, due to the elastic forces of the terminals 101a and 101b, one connection part 40 comes into contact with the terminal 101a and the other connection part 40 comes into contact with the terminal 101b. Therefore, it is possible to electrically connect a lighting circuit or the like electrically connected to the terminals 101a and 101b to the light-emitting element 20.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 2, the connection part 40 is in a plate shape. Further, the connection part 40 has conductivity. The connection part 40 can be formed, for example, by bending a plate-shaped conductive member. In this case, it can be bent after joining the plate-shaped conductive member to the connection pad 11b, or it can be joined to the connection pad 11b after bending the plate-shaped conductive member. The plate-shaped conductive member is, for example, a copper plate or a copper alloy plate having a thickness of about 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm.

[0048] Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the end side of the connection part 40 opposite to the side electrically connected to the light-emitting element 20 is bent with respect to the surface 10a of the substrate 10. By doing so, the reliability regarding the electrical connection between the connection part 40 and the terminals 101a and 101b can be improved. Also, the end side opposite to the side electrically connected to the light-emitting element 20 can be further bent toward the surface 10b of the substrate. By doing so, the rigidity of the connection part 40 can be increased, and the bonding strength between the connection part 40 and the substrate 10 can be increased.

[0049] In addition, a cover may be provided to cover the portions of the substrate 10 where the light-emitting elements 20 and circuit components 30 are provided. The cover can be formed from a material having translucency. The cover can be formed from, for example, glass or a resin having translucency such as polycarbonate. In this case, as long as it has translucency, the cover may be colored. Also, a lens or the like can be provided to give the cover the function of an optical element, a reflective film or the like can be provided to give the cover the function of a reflector, or irregularities or the like can be provided on the surface to give the cover the function of suppressing glare. The cover may be adhered to the substrate 10 or may be detachably provided on the substrate 10.

[0050] As described above, the vehicle lighting devices 1 and 1b according to the present embodiment are electrically connected to the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100 by the plate-shaped connection portion 40. Therefore, for example, compared with a vehicle lighting device having a base in which a cylindrical portion and a conical portion are integrally formed, a simple configuration can be achieved, so that cost reduction and shortening of the manufacturing period can be achieved. Also, if the connection portion 40 is plate-shaped, the bonding area between the connection portion 40 and the connection pad 11b can be increased, so that the bonding strength between the connection portion 40 and the connection pad 11b can be improved. Also, the connection work between the connection portion 40 and the connection pad 11b becomes easy.

[0051] Figs. 5(a) to (c) are schematic side views for exemplifying connection portions 40a and 40b according to other embodiments. As shown in Figs. 5(a) and (b), the connection portion 40a may be bent with respect to the surface 10a of the substrate 10. In this case, as shown in Fig. 5(a), the connection portion 40a may be bent to the surface 10b side of the substrate 10, or as shown in Fig. 5(b), the connection portion 40a may be bent to the side opposite to the surface 10b side of the substrate 10. In this way, the connection portion 40a can be formed by bending a plate-shaped conductive member once, so that the cost of the connection portion 40a can be reduced.

[0052] However, as shown in FIG. 2, if the connecting portion 40 is further bent on the surface 10b side of the substrate 10, it becomes easy to bring the tip side of the connecting portion 40 into contact with the surface 10b of the substrate 10. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the connecting portion 40 from being deformed by an external force or the like.

[0053] Also, as shown in FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b), the tip of the connecting portion 40a may be bent in a direction away from the end of the substrate 10. In this way, the elastic force of the connecting portion 40a and the elastic forces of the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100 can bring the connecting portion 40a into contact with the terminals 101a and 101b. Therefore, the reliability regarding the electrical connection between the connecting portion 40a and the terminals 101a and 101b can be improved.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 5(c), at least one convex portion 40b1 can be provided at a portion of the connecting portion 40b that is bent with respect to the surface 10a of the substrate 10. A plurality of convex portions 40b1 are provided in the connecting portion 40b illustrated in FIG. 5(c). The convex portion 40b1 can be formed, for example, by embossing a plate-like conductive member. If the convex portion 40b1 can be hooked on the surfaces of the terminals 101a and 101b, it is possible to suppress the positions of the vehicle lighting devices 1 and 1b from shifting due to vibrations during traveling or the like.

[0055] In addition, as shown in FIG. 5(c), the tip of the connecting portion 40b may be bent in a direction away from the end of the substrate 10. In this way, the elastic force of the connecting portion 40b and the elastic forces of the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100 can bring the connecting portion 40b into contact with the terminals 101a and 101b. Therefore, the reliability regarding the electrical connection between the connecting portion 40b and the terminals 101a and 101b can be improved. Also, similar to the connecting portion 40a illustrated in FIG. 5(b), the connecting portion 40b may be bent to the side opposite to the surface 10b side of the substrate 10.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view for illustrating a connection portion 40c according to another embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the dimension of the bent portion of the connection portion 40c in the Y direction can be made larger than the dimension of the portion of the connection portion 40c that is joined to the connection pad 11b. In this case, when viewed from the Z direction, the end portion of the bent portion of the connection portion 40c may be provided on one side or both sides of the portion of the connection portion 40c that is joined to the connection pad 11b. By increasing the dimension of the bent portion of the connection portion 40c, the contact area between the connection portion 40c and the terminals 101a and 101b can be increased, thereby improving the reliability regarding electrical connection and suppressing displacement of the positions of the vehicle lighting devices 1 and 1b due to vibrations during running or the like.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view for illustrating a convex portion 10d1 (convex portion 10e1) according to another embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, when viewed from the Z direction, the side surface of the convex portion 10d1 (convex portion 10e1) can be an inclined surface. The dimension of the convex portion 10d1 (convex portion 10e1) in the Y direction gradually decreases toward the tip side of the convex portion 10d1 (convex portion 10e1). Similar to the convex portions 10d and 10e described above, the convex portion 10d1 (convex portion 10e1) is inserted into the holes 101a1 (holes 101b1) of the terminals 101a (terminals 101b). At this time, if the side surface of the convex portion 10d1 (convex portion 10e1) is an inclined surface, the side surface of the convex portion 10d1 (convex portion 10e1) and the inner wall of the hole 101a1 (holes 101b1) can be more reliably brought into contact. Therefore, displacement of the positions of the vehicle lighting devices 1 and 1b due to vibrations during running or the like can be more effectively suppressed.

[0058] FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b) are schematic plan views for illustrating vehicle lighting devices 1c and 1d according to another embodiment. Note that, to avoid complexity, FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b) depict only the vicinity of the ends of the vehicle lighting devices 1c and 1d in the X direction.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 8(a), in the vehicle lighting device 1c, the end of the substrate 10 on the side opposite to the side where the connecting portion 40 is provided protrudes in the X direction from the end of the substrate 10 on the side where the connecting portion 40 is provided, with the convex portion 10d (convex portion 10e) interposed therebetween. In this case, the end of the substrate 10 on the side opposite to the side where the connecting portion 40 is provided can protrude by the thickness of the material of the connecting portion 40. By doing so, when the vehicle lighting device 1c is mounted on the terminal 101a (terminal 101b), it becomes easy to stabilize the posture of the vehicle lighting device 1c.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 8(b), in the vehicle lighting device 1d, the connecting portions 40 are provided on both sides of the convex portion 10d (convex portion 10e) in the Y direction. By doing so, when the vehicle lighting device 1d is mounted on the terminal 101a (terminal 101b), it becomes easy to stabilize the posture of the vehicle lighting device 1d. In this case, both connecting portions 40 may be electrically connected to the wiring pattern 11, or one of the connecting portions 40 may not be electrically connected to the wiring pattern 11. When both connecting portions 40 are electrically connected to the wiring pattern 11, both connecting portions 40 can be connected in parallel.

[0061] As described above, the light-emitting element 20 has a polarity. Therefore, when the vehicle lighting device 1 is mounted on the terminals 101a and 101b of the vehicle lamp 100, a directionality will occur. In this case, as described above, a non-polar circuit can be provided in the vehicle lighting device 1b, or a mark indicating the polarity can be provided on the substrate, convex portion, connecting portion, etc.

[0062] Figs. 9(a) to (c) are schematic plan views for exemplifying marks indicating polarity. As shown in Fig. 9(a), for example, a hole 50a penetrating in the thickness direction can be provided on one end side of the substrate 10 in the X direction, or a notch 50b can be provided at a corner of the substrate 10. Also, symbols or characters such as "+" or "-" can be printed or engraved on one end side of the substrate 10.

[0063] Further, for example, the shape of the convex portion can be changed between one end side and the other end side of the substrate 10 in the X direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 9(b), a convex portion 10d can be provided on one end side of the substrate 10, and a convex portion 10e1 can be provided on the other end side of the substrate 10.

[0064] Further, for example, the shape of the connection portion can be changed between one end side and the other end side of the substrate 10 in the X direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 9(c), a connection portion 40 can be provided on one end side of the substrate 10, and a connection portion 40c can be provided on the other end side of the substrate 10.

[0065] If a mark indicating polarity is provided, the above-described non-polarity circuit can be omitted. Therefore, the cost of the vehicle lighting device can be reduced. However, if a non-polarity circuit is provided, the work of mounting the vehicle lighting device on the terminals 101a and 101b becomes even easier.

[0066] (Vehicle lighting fixture) In one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting fixture 100 including the vehicle lighting device 1 can be provided. The above-described description of the vehicle lighting device 1 and the modified examples of the vehicle lighting device 1 (for example, vehicle lighting devices 1b to 1d, convex portions 10d1, 10e1, connection portions 40a to 40c, and those in which those skilled in the art appropriately add, delete, or change the design of the components and have the features of the present invention) can all be applied to the vehicle lighting fixture 100.

[0067] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view for exemplifying the vehicle lighting fixture 100 according to the present embodiment. In the following, as an example, the case where one vehicle lighting device 1 exemplified in FIGS. 1 to 3 is provided will be described. However, at least one vehicle lighting device 1 may be provided.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 10, the vehicle lighting fixture 100 can be provided with the vehicle lighting device 1, the housing 101, the terminals 101a, the terminals 101b, and the cover 102.

[0069] The housing 101 has, for example, a box shape with one end open. The housing 101 is formed of, for example, a resin that does not transmit light. Inside the housing 101, a terminal 101a and a terminal 101b are provided. The terminal 101a and the terminal 101b face each other.

[0070] The cover 102 is provided, for example, so as to close the opening of the housing 101. The cover 102 is formed of, for example, a resin having translucency. The cover 102 can have functions such as a lens or can suppress glare. Further, the cover 102 can be provided to be openable / closable or detachable with respect to the housing 101.

[0071] When attaching the vehicle lighting device 1 to the terminals 101a and 101b, at least one of the terminals 101a and 101b is elastically deformed in a direction in which the distance between the terminal 101a and the terminal 101b increases. Next, the convex portion 10d is inserted into the hole 101a1 of the terminal 101a, and the convex portion 10e is inserted into the hole 101b1 of the terminal 101b. Next, the elastically deformed terminals 101a and 101b are returned to their original shapes, and the connection portion 40 is electrically connected to each of the terminals 101a and 101b. In the above manner, the vehicle lighting device 1 can be attached to the terminals 101a and 101b.

[0072] By attaching the vehicle lighting device 1 to the terminals 101a and 101b, the vehicle lighting device 1 can be electrically connected to a lighting circuit or the like electrically connected to the terminals 101a and 101b. The lighting circuit or the like can be provided, for example, on the inner wall surface or the outer wall surface of the housing 101, or can be provided at a position separated from the housing 101.

[0073] As described above, some 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 the equivalent scope thereof. In addition, the above-described embodiments can be implemented in combination with each other.

[0074] Hereinafter, an appendix related to the above-described embodiment will be shown.

[0075] (Appendix 1) A substrate having a plate shape; A light-emitting element provided on a first surface of the substrate; A first convex portion provided at a first end of the substrate; A second convex portion provided at a second end of the substrate opposite to the first end; A first connection portion provided near the first end of the substrate, electrically connected to an electrode of one polarity of the light-emitting element, and having an end portion side opposite to the side electrically connected to the light-emitting element bent with respect to the first surface; A second connection portion provided near the second end of the substrate, electrically connected to an electrode of the other polarity of the light-emitting element, and having an end portion side opposite to the side electrically connected to the light-emitting element bent with respect to the first surface; A vehicle lighting device comprising:

[0076] (Appendix 2) When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first surface of the substrate, In a direction perpendicular to the direction from the first end to the second end, the center line of the first convex portion and the center line of the second convex portion are on an extension of the center line of the substrate. The vehicle lighting device according to Appendix 1.

[0077] (Appendix 3) The vehicle lighting device according to appended note 2, wherein the second connection portion is provided on a side opposite to the side where the first connection portion is provided with respect to the center line of the substrate.

[0078] (Appended note 4) An end portion side of the first connection portion, which is opposite to the side electrically connected to the light emitting element, is further bent toward a second surface facing the first surface of the substrate. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of appended notes 1 to 3, wherein an end portion side of the second connection portion, which is opposite to the side electrically connected to the light emitting element, is further bent toward the second surface.

[0079] (Appended note 5) A vehicle lighting device according to any one of appended notes 1 to 4; A first terminal having a hole in which a first convex portion provided in the vehicle lighting device is provided; A second terminal having a hole in which a second convex portion provided in the vehicle lighting device is provided; Comprising: The first connection portion provided in the vehicle lighting device is electrically connected to the first terminal. A vehicle lighting fixture, wherein the second connection portion provided in the vehicle lighting device is electrically connected to the second terminal.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0080] 1 Vehicle lighting device, 1b Vehicle lighting device, 1c Vehicle lighting device, 1d Vehicle lighting device, 10 Substrate, 10c Center line, 10d Convex portion, 10d1 Convex portion, 10e Convex portion, 10e1 Convex portion, 11 Wiring pattern, 11b Connection pad, 20 Light emitting element, 40 Connection portion, 40a Connection portion, 40b Connection portion, 40c Connection portion, 50a Hole, 50b Notch, 100 Vehicle lighting fixture, 101 Housing, 101a Terminal, 101a1 Hole, 101b Terminal, 101b1 Hole

Claims

1. a substrate having a plate shape; a light-emitting element provided on a first surface of the substrate; a first convex portion provided at a first end of the substrate; a second convex portion provided at a second end of the substrate opposite to the first end; a first connection portion provided near the first end of the substrate, electrically connected to an electrode of one polarity of the light-emitting element, and having an end portion side opposite to the side electrically connected to the light-emitting element bent with respect to the first surface; a second connection portion provided near the second end of the substrate, electrically connected to an electrode of the other polarity of the light-emitting element, and having an end portion side opposite to the side electrically connected to the light-emitting element bent with respect to the first surface; a vehicle lighting device comprising the above.

2. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first surface of the substrate, in a direction orthogonal to the direction from the first end to the second end, the center line of the first convex portion and the center line of the second convex portion are on an extension of the center line of the substrate. The vehicle lighting device according to Claim 1.

3. The vehicle lighting device according to Claim 2, wherein the second connection portion is provided on a side opposite to the side where the first connection portion is provided with respect to the center line of the substrate.

4. The end portion side of the first connection portion opposite to the side electrically connected to the light-emitting element is further bent toward a second surface facing the first surface of the substrate, The end portion side of the second connection portion opposite to the side electrically connected to the light-emitting element is further bent toward the second surface. The vehicle lighting device according to Claim 1 or 2.

5. The vehicle lighting device according to Claim 1; a first terminal having a hole in which the first convex portion provided in the vehicle lighting device is provided; a second terminal having a hole in which the second convex portion provided in the vehicle lighting device is provided; comprising: the first connection portion provided in the vehicle lighting device is electrically connected to the first terminal, the second connection portion provided in the vehicle lighting device is electrically connected to the second terminal. A vehicle lamp.

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