Vehicular illuminating device, and vehicular lighting fixture

Abstract

To provide a vehicular illuminating device that can restrain a heat transfer part from inclining even if a portion of the heat transfer part provided inside a socket is made longer, and a vehicular lighting fixture.SOLUTION: A vehicular illuminating device comprises: a socket 10 comprising a first concave part extending in a first direction; a light emitting module 20 provided on the side of one end part of the socket, and comprising a light emitting element; and a first heat transfer part 40 provided between the light emitting module and the socket, and comprising a seat part 40a to which the light emitting module is bonded, and a first heat conduction part intersecting with the seat part, and extending inside the first concave part of the socket. The first heat conduction part comprises a first convex part protruding in a second direction intersecting with the first direction, and a second convex part protruding in a third direction intersecting with the first direction and the second direction. A tip of the first convex part can be in contact with an inner wall of the first concave part in the second direction. A tip of the second convex part can be in contact with the inner wall of the first concave part in the third direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] From the viewpoints of energy saving and long life, vehicle lighting devices equipped with light-emitting elements such as light-emitting diodes are becoming increasingly popular, replacing vehicle lighting devices equipped with filament lamps. Such vehicle lighting devices include a socket and a light-emitting module provided on one end of the socket. The light-emitting module includes, for example, a substrate and a light-emitting element provided on the substrate.

[0003] When a current flows through a light-emitting element when a vehicle lighting device is turned on, the light-emitting element emits light and generates heat. In recent years, there has been a demand for vehicle lighting devices with higher luminous flux, and the current flowing through the light-emitting element tends to increase. When the current flowing through the light-emitting element increases, the heat generated by the light-emitting element also increases. Furthermore, for example, in the case of a vehicle lighting device for an automobile, the temperature of the atmosphere in which the vehicle lighting device is installed may reach approximately 85°C.

[0004] Therefore, when the vehicle lighting device is turned on, the temperature of the light-emitting element may become too high and exceed the maximum junction temperature, which may cause the light-emitting element to malfunction or reduce the luminous flux of the light emitted from the light-emitting element.

[0005] Therefore, a technology has been proposed in which a heat transfer part made of metal is provided between the light-emitting module and the socket. In this case, by lengthening the portion of the heat transfer part provided inside the socket, the heat generated in the light-emitting module can be transferred to a wide area of the socket. This improves the heat dissipation of the light-emitting module.

[0006] However, if the portion of the heat transfer part that is provided inside the socket is made longer, the heat transfer part is more likely to tilt when it is inserted into the recess provided in the socket and joined. If the heat transfer part tilts, the thickness of the joining layer provided in the gap between the heat transfer part and the inner wall of the recess may vary, which may result in variations in joining strength and heat dissipation. Furthermore, since the light emitting module is provided on the heat transfer section, if the heat transfer section is tilted, the direction of light irradiation may be tilted, and the desired orientation characteristics may not be obtained.

[0007] Therefore, there has been a demand for the development of a technology that can prevent the heat transfer part from tilting even if the portion of the heat transfer part that is provided inside the socket is lengthened. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-195099 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp that can prevent the heat transfer part from tilting even if the part of the heat transfer part that is located inside the socket is made longer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] A vehicle lighting device according to an embodiment includes a socket having a first recess extending in a first direction; a light-emitting module having a light-emitting element provided at one end of the socket; a first heat transfer unit including a seat provided between the light-emitting module and the socket and to which the light-emitting module is attached; and a first heat conduction unit intersecting the seat and extending inside the first recess of the socket. The first heat conduction unit has a first protrusion protruding in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second protrusion protruding in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions. A tip of the first protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the first recess in the second direction. A tip of the second protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the first recess in the third direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp can be provided that can prevent the heat transfer part from tilting even if the part of the heat transfer part that is located inside the socket is made longer. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a vehicle lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lighting device taken along line AA in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lighting device taken along line BB in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a heat transfer portion. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a heat transfer portion according to a comparative example. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a heat transfer portion according to another embodiment. [Figure 7] 5A and 5B are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the function of the heat conduction part. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view illustrating a vehicle lamp. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments will be illustrated with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0014] (Vehicle lighting device) The vehicle lighting device 1 according to this embodiment can be installed in, for example, an automobile, a railway vehicle, etc. Examples of the vehicle lighting device 1 installed in an automobile include those used as front combination lights (for example, an appropriate combination of daytime running lamps (DRLs), position lamps, turn signal lamps, etc.) and rear combination lights (for example, an appropriate combination of stop lamps, tail lamps, turn signal lamps, backup lamps, fog lamps, etc.). However, the uses of the vehicle lighting device 1 are not limited to these.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a vehicle lighting device 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lighting device 1 taken along line AA in FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle lighting device 1 taken along line BB in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a 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 (corresponding to an example of a first heat transfer unit).

[0016] 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. A central axis 10c of the socket 10 is substantially coaxial with a central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1. The socket 10 also has, for example, a recess 10a (which corresponds to an example of a first recess) extending in a direction (which corresponds to an example of a first direction) along the central axis 10c.

[0017] The mounting portion 11 is provided on the surface of the flange 13 opposite to the side on which the heat dissipation fins 14 are provided. The outer shape of the mounting portion 11 is, for example, cylindrical. The mounting portion 11 has, for example, a recess 11a that opens at the end opposite to the flange 13 side.

[0018] The bayonet 12 is provided, for example, on 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 may be provided. The bayonet 12 is used when mounting the vehicle lighting device 1 to, for example, a housing 101 of a vehicle lamp 100 described below. The bayonet 12 can be used for a twist lock.

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

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

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

[0022] The socket 10 has a function of holding the light emitting module 20 and the power supply unit 30, and a function of transferring heat generated in the light emitting module 20 to the outside. In recent years, there has been a demand for a lighter vehicle lighting device 1, and therefore a lighter socket 10.

[0023] Therefore, the socket 10 can be formed from, for example, a highly thermally conductive resin. The highly thermally conductive resin is, for example, a resin such as PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) or nylon mixed with a filler such as carbon or aluminum oxide. If the socket 10 includes a highly thermally conductive resin, the heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be efficiently dissipated. Furthermore, the weight of the socket 10 can be reduced. The socket 10 including a highly thermally conductive resin can be formed using, for example, an injection molding method.

[0024] The light emitting module 20 is provided on one end side of the socket 10 . The light emitting module 20 includes, for example, a substrate 21, a light emitting element 22, a frame portion 23, a sealing portion 24, and a circuit element 25.

[0025] The substrate 21 has a plate-like shape. The planar shape of the substrate 21 (the shape when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1) is, for example, substantially rectangular. The substrate 21 can be formed from, for example, an inorganic material such as ceramics (e.g., aluminum oxide or aluminum nitride), or an organic material such as paper phenol or glass epoxy. The substrate 21 may also be a metal core substrate in which the surface of a metal plate is covered with an insulating material. The substrate 21 may also have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure.

[0026] Furthermore, a wiring pattern 21a is provided on the surface of the substrate 21. The wiring pattern 21a is made of, for example, a material containing silver as a main component or a material containing copper as a main component. Furthermore, a covering portion can be provided to cover the wiring pattern 21a, a film-like resistor (to be described later), etc. The covering portion can include, for example, a glass material.

[0027] The light-emitting element 22 is provided on the substrate 21 (on the surface of the substrate 21 opposite to the heat transfer section 40 side). The light-emitting element 22 is electrically connected to the wiring pattern 21a. At least one light-emitting element 22 can be provided. The vehicle lighting device 1 (light-emitting module 20) illustrated in FIG. 2 is provided with a plurality of light-emitting elements 22. When a plurality of light-emitting elements 22 are provided, the plurality of light-emitting elements 22 can be connected in series.

[0028] The light emitting element 22 may be, for example, a light emitting diode, an organic light emitting diode, a laser diode, or the like. The light emitting element 22 may be any of a chip-type light emitting element, a surface-mounted light emitting element such as a PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) type, and a light emitting element having leads such as a bullet type. However, if the light emitting element 22 is a chip-shaped light emitting element, the light emitting module 20 can be made smaller, and therefore the vehicle lighting device 1 can be made smaller.

[0029] In the following, as an example, a case where the light emitting element 22 is a chip-shaped light emitting element will be described. The chip-shaped light-emitting element 22 can be electrically connected to the wiring pattern 21a by COB (Chip On Board). The chip-shaped light-emitting element 22 may be any of an upper electrode type light-emitting element, a top and bottom electrode type light-emitting element, and a flip-chip type light-emitting element.

[0030] The frame portion 23 has a frame shape and surrounds the light-emitting element 22. The frame portion 23 can be adhered onto the substrate 21 using an adhesive. The outline of the frame portion 23 (outline of the planar shape) when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1 can be changed as appropriate depending on the required light distribution characteristics, luminance distribution, etc. For example, the outline of the planar shape of the frame portion 23 can be a circle, a rectangle, an ellipse, etc. The outline of the planar shape of the frame portion 23 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a rectangle.

[0031] The frame portion 23 functions as a reflector that reflects light emitted from the light-emitting element 22 and defines the area in which the sealing portion 24 is formed. Therefore, if the frame portion 23 is provided, it is possible to improve the extraction efficiency of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 22. Furthermore, if the frame portion 23 is provided, it is possible to reduce the area in which the sealing portion 24 is formed, thereby enabling the light-emitting module 20 to be made smaller, and therefore the vehicle lighting device 1 to be made smaller.

[0032] The sealing portion 24 is provided inside the frame portion 23. The sealing portion 24 is provided so as to cover the area surrounded by the frame portion 23. The sealing portion 24 is provided so as to cover the light-emitting element 22. The sealing portion 24 contains a resin having light-transmitting properties. The resin is, for example, a silicone resin. The sealing portion 24 may also contain a phosphor. If the light emitting element 22 is a surface-mounted light emitting element or a bullet-type light emitting element having lead wires, the frame portion 23 and the sealing portion 24 can be omitted.

[0033] In addition, optical elements and the like can be provided as necessary. Examples of optical elements include convex lenses, concave lenses, and light guides. The optical elements can be provided on the sealing portion 24, for example.

[0034] The circuit element 25 can be a passive element or an active element used to configure a light-emitting circuit having the light-emitting element 22. The circuit element 25 is provided, for example, on the substrate 21. The circuit element 25 is provided, for example, around the periphery of the frame portion 23, and is electrically connected to the wiring pattern 21a.

[0035] 1 are, for example, a protection element 25a, a control element 25b, and a resistor 25c. However, the circuit elements 25 provided in the light-emitting circuit are not limited to those illustrated. The circuit elements 25 can be modified as appropriate depending on the configuration of the light-emitting circuit having the light-emitting element 22. For example, in addition to those described above, the circuit elements 25 may also be a capacitor, a positive temperature coefficient thermistor, a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, an inductor, a surge absorber, a varistor, a transistor, an integrated circuit, an arithmetic element, or the like.

[0036] The protective element 25a is provided, for example, to prevent a reverse voltage from being applied to the light-emitting element 22 and to prevent pulse noise from being applied from the reverse direction to the light-emitting element 22. The protective element 25a is, for example, a diode. The protective element 25a illustrated in FIG. 1 is a surface-mounted diode.

[0037] The control element 25b is provided, for example, to switch the voltage applied to the light-emitting element 22, to perform temperature derating, and to control the current flowing through the light-emitting element 22. However, the functions and uses of the control element 25b are not limited to those exemplified. The control element 25b can be, for example, a transistor or an integrated circuit. The control element 25b exemplified in FIG. 1 is a surface-mounted integrated circuit.

[0038] The resistor 25c may be, for example, a surface-mount resistor, a resistor with leads (metal oxide film resistor), a film resistor formed by screen printing, etc. The resistor 25c illustrated in FIG. 1 is a film resistor.

[0039] Here, since there is variation in the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 22, if the voltage applied between the anode terminal and the ground terminal is constant, variation occurs in the brightness (luminous flux, luminance, luminous intensity, illuminance) of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 22. Therefore, to keep the brightness of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 22 within a predetermined range, the value of the current flowing through the light-emitting element 22 is controlled to be within a predetermined range by using the resistor 25c connected in series to the light-emitting element 22. In this case, the resistance value of the resistor 25c is changed to keep the value of the current flowing through the light-emitting element 22 within the predetermined range.

[0040] If the resistor 25c is a surface-mount resistor or a resistor with leads, the resistor 25c should have an appropriate resistance value depending on the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 22. If the resistor 25c is a film resistor, the resistance value can be increased by removing a portion of the resistor 25c. For example, a portion of the film resistor can be easily removed by irradiating the film resistor with laser light. The number, arrangement, size, etc. of the resistors 25c are not limited to those illustrated, and can be changed as appropriate depending on the number and specifications of the light-emitting elements 22.

[0041] The power supply unit 30 includes, for example, a plurality of power supply terminals 31 and a holding unit 32 . The plurality of power supply terminals 31 may be rod-shaped. One end of each of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 protrudes from the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. One end of each of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 is soldered to the wiring pattern 21a provided on the substrate 21. The other end of each of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 is exposed inside the hole of the connector holder 15. The connector 105 is fitted into 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 from a metal such as a copper alloy. Note that the shape, arrangement, material, etc. of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 are not limited to those exemplified and can be changed as appropriate.

[0042] For example, when socket 10 is formed using a highly thermally conductive resin containing a carbon-based filler, socket 10 becomes conductive. Therefore, holding portion 32 is provided to insulate multiple power supply terminals 31 from conductive socket 10. Note that when socket 10 is formed using an insulating highly thermally conductive resin (for example, a highly thermally conductive resin containing an aluminum oxide-based filler), holding portion 32 can be omitted. For example, holding portion 32 can be press-fitted into a hole provided in socket 10 or adhered to the inner wall of the hole.

[0043] The heat transfer section 40 is provided between the socket 10 and the light emitting module 20 (substrate 21). FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the heat transfer section 40. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the heat transfer part 40 has, for example, a seat part 40a and a heat conduction part 40b (corresponding to an example of a first heat conduction part). The light-emitting module 20 is adhered onto the seat part 40a. The heat conduction part 40b intersects with the seat part 40a. The heat conduction part 40b extends inside a recess 10a provided in the socket 10. The seat part 40a and the heat conduction part 40b can be formed integrally, for example. For example, the seat part 40a and the heat conduction part 40b can be formed integrally using a plastic processing method, a die casting method, or the like.

[0044] The heat transfer portion 40 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, copper, or a copper alloy. The thermal conductivity of metal is higher than that of highly thermally conductive resin, so if heat transfer section 40 including metal is provided, heat generated in light-emitting module 20 can be easily transferred to the inside of socket 10.

[0045] The seat 40a is, for example, plate-shaped and is provided inside the recess 11b that opens to the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. The seat 40a can also be provided on the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a or on a protrusion provided on the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a.

[0046] The planar shape of the seat portion 40a can be, for example, a substantially rectangular shape. The light-emitting module 20 (substrate 21) is adhered to an end surface 40a1 of the seat portion 40a. The adhesive used to adhere the light-emitting module 20 (substrate 21) is preferably an adhesive with high thermal conductivity. For example, the adhesive with high thermal conductivity can be an adhesive mixed with a filler using a conductive material or an inorganic material. When the adhesive with high thermal conductivity hardens, an adhesive layer 40a2 is provided between the light-emitting module 20 (substrate 21) and the seat portion 40a.

[0047] The heat conduction part 40b may be, for example, plate-shaped and provided on the periphery of one side of the seat part 40a. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the heat conduction part 40b may be provided on the periphery of the seat part 40a on the side facing the power supply part 30. The thickness of the heat conduction part 40b may be the same as or different from the thickness of the seat part 40a. In the case of the heat transfer part 40 illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4, the thickness of the heat conduction part 40b is the same as the thickness of the seat part 40a. For example, the thickness of the seat part 40a and the heat conduction part 40b may be about 2 mm.

[0048] The heat conducting portion 40b extends, for example, along the central axis 10c of the socket 10. The heat conducting portion 40b extends, for example, inside the recess 10a provided in the heat dissipation fin 14. The end of the heat conducting portion 40b can be provided, for example, near the tip of the heat dissipation fin 14. If the heat conducting portion 40b extends inside the heat dissipation fin 14, the heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be efficiently conducted to the heat dissipation fin 14. Therefore, the heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be efficiently dissipated to the outside.

[0049] Here, the heat transfer section 40 can also be molded integrally with the socket 10 using insert molding or the like. However, when the heat transfer section 40 and the socket 10 are molded integrally, a gap may be formed in a portion of the area between the socket 10 and the heat transfer section 40. In the portion where the gap is formed, heat is less likely to be transferred from the heat transfer section 40 to the socket 10. This may reduce the efficiency of dissipating heat generated in the light-emitting module 20.

[0050] Therefore, it is preferable to adhere the heat transfer portion 40 to the inner walls of the recess 11b and the inner walls of the recess 10a of the socket 10 using an adhesive with high thermal conductivity, or to provide it inside the recess 11b and the recess 10a of the socket 10 using heat conductive grease (heat dissipation grease).

[0051] The adhesive with high thermal conductivity can be, for example, the same as the adhesive used to bond the light-emitting module 20 (substrate 21) and the seat portion 40a described above. For example, the thermal conductivity of the adhesive with high thermal conductivity is about 0.92 W / (m·k). The thermal conductive grease can be, for example, modified silicone mixed with a filler using a material with high thermal conductivity (e.g., carbon, ceramics, metal, etc.). For example, the thermal conductivity of the thermal conductive grease is about 3 W / (m·k).

[0052] Here, thermally conductive grease has a higher thermal conductivity than adhesives with high thermal conductivity, and is less likely to leave a gap between the socket 10 and the thermally conductive grease. Therefore, by using thermally conductive grease, the heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be more efficiently transferred to the socket 10. In other words, the efficiency of dissipating heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be further improved.

[0053] On the other hand, if an adhesive with high thermal conductivity is used, the bonding strength between the heat transfer part 40 and the socket 10 can be further increased. If the bonding strength between the heat transfer part 40 and the socket 10 can be increased, the heat transfer part 40 can be prevented from detaching from the socket 10 even when vibrations caused by driving or the like are applied to the vehicle lighting device 1. Therefore, the reliability of the vehicle lighting device 1 against vibrations can be improved.

[0054] Whether to use thermally conductive grease or an adhesive with high thermal conductivity can be appropriately selected depending on the amount of heat generated in the light-emitting module 20, vibrations applied to the vehicle lighting device 1, and the like.

[0055] For example, heat transferred from the heat transfer portion 40 to the socket 10 is mainly dissipated to the outside through the heat dissipation fins 14. In this case, since the heat conduction portion 40b extends inside the socket 10, the amount of heat transferred from the heat conduction portion 40b to the heat dissipation fins 14 is greater than the amount of heat transferred from the seat portion 40a to the heat dissipation fins 14.

[0056] In this case, if thermally conductive grease is used, which has a higher thermal conductivity than adhesive and is less likely to leave a gap between it and the inner wall of the recess 10a of the socket 10, the heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be efficiently transferred to the heat dissipation fins 14. As a result, the efficiency of dissipating heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be improved.

[0057] If the heat dissipation efficiency can be improved, for example, even if the current flowing through the light-emitting module 20 is increased to increase luminous flux, it is possible to prevent the temperature of the light-emitting element 22 from exceeding the maximum junction temperature. In other words, when a large amount of heat is generated in the light-emitting module 20, it is preferable to use thermally conductive grease.

[0058] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a heat transfer section 140 according to a comparative example. FIG. 5 is a view corresponding to the heat transfer section 40 in FIG. 5, the seat portion 140a is plate-shaped and is provided, for example, inside a recess 11b that opens to the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. The heat conducting portion 140b is provided, for example, inside a recess 10a provided in the heat dissipation fin 14.

[0059] The heat transfer portion 140 is adhered to the inner walls of the recess 11b and the inner walls of the recess 10a of the socket 10 using an adhesive with high thermal conductivity, or is provided inside the recess 11b and the recess 10a of the socket 10 using thermally conductive grease. In this case, the adhesive and thermally conductive grease have a certain degree of fluidity before hardening. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 5, the heat transfer part 140 may be fixed in a tilted state with respect to the central axis 10c of the socket 10. In this case, using thermally conductive grease makes it easier to fix the heat transfer part 140 in a tilted state.

[0060] If the heat transfer portion 140 is tilted with respect to the central axis 10c of the socket 10, the thickness of the bonding layer 143 (adhesive layer or layer containing thermally conductive grease) provided between the heat transfer portion 140 and the inner wall of the recess 11b, and between the heat transfer portion 140 and the inner wall of the recess 10a, may vary, which may result in variations in bonding strength and heat dissipation performance.

[0061] Furthermore, the light-emitting module 20 is provided on the heat transfer section 140. Therefore, if the heat transfer section 140 is tilted, the light-emitting module 20 is also tilted, and as shown in Fig. 5, the irradiation direction of the light 22a emitted from the light-emitting element 22 is tilted. Therefore, there is a risk that the predetermined orientation characteristics may not be obtained.

[0062] 4, the heat transfer member 40 according to this embodiment is provided with a protrusion 40b1 (which corresponds to an example of a first protrusion) and a protrusion 40b2 (which corresponds to an example of a second protrusion). The protrusion 40b1 and the protrusion 40b2 can be provided on the heat conducting member 40b.

[0063] The protrusions 40b1 protrude, for example, in a direction intersecting the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10 (corresponding to an example of the second direction). For example, at least one protrusion 40b1 can be provided on each of the pair of surfaces 40ba of the heat conduction unit 40b. In the case of the heat transfer unit 40 illustrated in FIG. 4, one protrusion 40b1 is provided on each of the pair of surfaces 40ba. In the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10, the position of the protrusion 40b1 provided on one surface 40ba may be the same as or different from the position of the protrusion 40b1 provided on the other surface 40ba. In the case of the heat transfer unit 40 illustrated in FIG. 4, the position of the protrusion 40b1 provided on one surface 40ba is the same as the position of the protrusion 40b1 provided on the other surface 40ba in the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10.

[0064] The surface 40b1a of the protrusion 40b1 opposite the surface 40ba intersects with the surface 40ba. In this case, the end of the surface 40b1a opposite the seat 40a is connected to the surface 40ba. The angle between the surface 40ba and the surface 40b1a can be an obtuse angle. For example, the angle between the surface 40ba and the surface 40b1a can be approximately 175°. That is, the surface 40b1a is easily inserted into the recess 10a of the socket 10. This makes it easy to insert the heat conducting part 40b into the recess 10a.

[0065] The corners of the end of the heat conduction part 40b opposite to the seat part 40a side are curved. The corners of the end of the heat conduction part 40b may be sloped. If the corners of the end of the heat conduction part 40b are curved or sloped, it will be easier to insert the heat conduction part 40b into the recess 10a.

[0066] Furthermore, the corner 40b1b of the protrusion 40b1 on the seat 40a side has a sharp edge. Therefore, when the heat transfer part 40 (heat conduction part 40b) is inserted into the recess 10a of the socket 10, the corner 40b1b at the tip of the protrusion 40b1 can be fitted into the inner wall of the recess 10a. If the corner 40b1b at the tip of the protrusion 40b1 is fitted into the inner wall of the recess 10a, it is possible to prevent the heat transfer part 40 from detaching from the socket 10.

[0067] The protrusion 40b2 protrudes, for example, in a direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10 and in a direction intersecting the protruding direction of the protrusion 40b1 (corresponding to an example of a third direction). At least one protrusion 40b2 can be provided on each of a pair of surfaces 40bb intersecting the surface 40ba. In the case of the heat transfer unit 40 illustrated in FIG. 4, one protrusion 40b2 is provided on each of the pair of surfaces 40bb. In the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10, the position of the protrusion 40b2 provided on one surface 40bb may be the same as or different from the position of the protrusion 40b2 provided on the other surface 40bb. In the case of the heat transfer unit 40 illustrated in FIG. 4, the position of the protrusion 40b2 provided on one surface 40bb is the same as the position of the protrusion 40b2 provided on the other surface 40bb in the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10.

[0068] Furthermore, the position of the protrusion 40b2 may be the same as or different from the position of the protrusion 40b1 in the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10. In the case of the heat transfer member 40 illustrated in FIG. 4, the position of the protrusion 40b2 is different from the position of the protrusion 40b1 in the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10.

[0069] 2, the surface of the protrusion 40b2 facing the inner wall of the recess 10a may be curved. For example, the protrusion 40b2 may be shaped like a part of a sphere or a part of a cylinder. This makes it easier to insert the heat conducting part 40b into the recess 10a.

[0070] Note that the shapes of the protrusions 40b1 and 40b2 may be the same or different. For example, the protrusion 40b1 may be a part of a sphere or a part of a cylinder, and the protrusion 40b2 may have corners 40b1b.

[0071] When the heat transfer part 40 (heat conduction part 40b) is inserted into the recess 10a of the socket 10, a small gap may be provided between the convex part 40b2 and the inner wall of the recess 10a, or the convex part 40b2 may come into contact with the inner wall of the recess 10a.

[0072] That is, it is only necessary that the tip of the protrusion 40b1 can come into contact with the inner wall of the recess 10a in the direction in which the protrusion 40b1 protrudes. Furthermore, it is only necessary that the tip of the protrusion 40b2 can come into contact with the inner wall of the recess 10a in the direction in which the protrusion 40b2 protrudes.

[0073] Providing protrusions 40b1 and 40b2 makes it possible to determine the position of heat transfer portion 40 (heat conduction portion 40b) relative to central axis 10c of socket 10 in two directions intersecting the direction along central axis 10c of socket 10. Therefore, it is possible to prevent heat transfer portion 40 from tilting relative to central axis 10c of socket 10.

[0074] If it is possible to prevent heat transfer portion 40 from tilting with respect to central axis 10c of socket 10, it is possible to prevent variations in the thickness of bonding layer 43 (adhesive layer or layer containing thermally conductive grease) provided between heat transfer portion 40 and the inner wall of recess 11b and between heat transfer portion 40 and the inner wall of recess 10a. As a result, it is possible to prevent variations in bonding strength and heat dissipation performance.

[0075] Furthermore, if the heat transfer portion 40 can be prevented from tilting relative to the central axis 10c of the socket 10, it is possible to prevent the irradiation direction of the light 22a emitted from the light emitting element 22 from tilting, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. This makes it easier to obtain predetermined orientation characteristics.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a heat transfer section 41 (corresponding to an example of a second heat transfer section) according to another embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the function of the heat-conducting portion 40c (corresponding to an example of the second heat-conducting portion).

[0077] 6, the heat transfer portion 41 includes, for example, a seat portion 40a, a heat conduction portion 40b, and a heat conduction portion 40c. The seat portion 40a, the heat conduction portion 40b, and the heat conduction portion 40c can be integrally formed, for example, by using a plastic processing method or a die casting method. The material of the heat transfer portion 41 can be the same as the material of the heat transfer portion 40, for example.

[0078] The socket 10 further has a recess 10b (corresponding to an example of a second recess) extending in a direction along the central axis 10c. The heat conduction portion 40c extends inside the recess 10b. The heat conduction portion 40c has, for example, a plate shape and intersects with the seat portion 40a. The heat conduction portion 40c can be provided, for example, on a periphery of the seat portion 40a that intersects with the periphery on which the heat conduction portion 40b is provided. The heat conduction portion 40c can be provided on one periphery of the seat portion 40a, or on each of the opposing peripheries of the seat portion 40a. In the heat transfer portion 41 illustrated in FIG. 6, one heat conduction portion 40c is provided on each of the opposing peripheries of the seat portion 40a.

[0079] The thickness of the heat conduction portion 40c may be the same as or different from the thickness of the seat portion 40a and the heat conduction portion 40b. In the case of the heat transfer portion 41 illustrated in Fig. 6, the thickness of the heat conduction portion 40c is the same as the thickness of the seat portion 40a and the heat conduction portion 40b. For example, the thickness of the seat portion 40a, the heat conduction portion 40b, and the heat conduction portion 40c may be about 2 mm.

[0080] 7, the heat conduction portion 40c extends inside a recess 10b provided in the socket 10. The direction in which the heat conduction portion 40c extends may be the same as the direction in which the heat conduction portion 40b extends. The heat conduction portion 40c extends, for example, along the central axis 10c of the socket 10.

[0081] The length of the heat conducting portion 40c in the direction in which the heat conducting portion 40b extends may be different from or the same as the length of the heat conducting portion 40b. In the case of the heat transfer unit 41 illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the length of the heat conducting portion 40c is shorter than the length of the heat conducting portion 40b. In this case, it is sufficient that the heat conducting portion 40c is provided at least inside the mounting portion 11.

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the heat conduction unit 40c may be provided with a protrusion 40c1 (an example of a second protrusion). At least one protrusion 40c1 may be provided on each of the pair of surfaces 40ca in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the heat conduction unit 40c. In the case of the heat transfer unit 41 illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, one protrusion 40c1 is provided on each of the pair of surfaces 40ca. In the extension direction of the heat conduction unit 40c, the position of the protrusion 40c1 provided on one surface 40ca may be the same as or different from the position of the protrusion 40c1 provided on the other surface 40ca. In the case of the heat transfer unit 41 illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the position of the protrusion 40c1 provided on one surface 40ca is the same as the position of the protrusion 40c1 provided on the other surface 40ca in the extension direction of the heat conduction unit 40c.

[0083] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the surface of the convex portion 40c1 facing the inner wall of the recess 10b may be curved. For example, the convex portion 40c1 may be a part of a sphere or a part of a cylinder. In the case of the heat transfer portion 41 illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the convex portion 40c1 is a part of a cylinder. If the surface of the convex portion 40c1 facing the inner wall of the recess 10b is curved, it becomes easier to insert the heat conduction portion 40c into the recess 10b. The shape of the convex portion 40c1 may be the same as or different from the shape of the convex portion 40b2. The convex portion 40c1 may have the same shape as the convex portion 40b1, which has corners 40b1b.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 7, when the heat transfer portion 41 (heat conduction portion 40c) is inserted into the recess 10b of the socket 10, a small gap may be provided between the protrusion 40c1 and the inner wall of the recess 10b, or the protrusion 40c1 may come into contact with the inner wall of the recess 10b.

[0085] As described above, the heat conduction part 40b has a protrusion 40b1 that protrudes in a direction intersecting the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10. The heat conduction part 40c has a protrusion 40c1 that protrudes in a direction intersecting the direction along the central axis 10c of the socket 10 and the direction in which the protrusion 40b1 protrudes. The tip of the protrusion 40b1 can come into contact with the inner wall of the recess 10a in the direction in which the protrusion 40b1 protrudes. The tip of the protrusion 40c1 can come into contact with the inner wall of the recess 10b in the direction in which the protrusion 40c1 protrudes.

[0086] Providing the protrusions 40b1 and 40c1 makes it possible to determine the position of the heat transfer portion 41 (heat conduction portion 40b and heat conduction portion 40c) relative to the central axis 10c of the socket 10 in two directions intersecting the central axis 10c of the socket 10. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the heat transfer portion 41 from tilting relative to the central axis 10c of the socket 10.

[0087] If heat transfer portion 41 can be prevented from tilting with respect to central axis 10c of socket 10, it is possible to prevent variations in the thickness of bonding layer 43 (adhesive layer or layer containing thermally conductive grease) provided between heat transfer portion 41 and the inner wall of recess 11b, between heat transfer portion 41 and the inner wall of recess 10a, and between heat transfer portion 41 and the inner wall of recess 10b. This makes it possible to prevent variations in bonding strength and heat dissipation.

[0088] Furthermore, if the heat transfer portion 41 can be prevented from tilting relative to the central axis 10c of the socket 10, it is possible to prevent the irradiation direction of the light 22a emitted from the light emitting element 22 from tilting, as in the case of the heat transfer portion 40 described above. Therefore, it becomes easier to obtain a predetermined orientation characteristic.

[0089] Furthermore, when the heat transfer portion 41 having the convex portions 40b1 and 40c1 is formed by a plastic processing method, the following method can be used. For example, first, the heat transfer portion 41 is cut out from a metal plate by laser processing, with the seat portion 40a, the heat conduction portion 40b having the convex portion 40b1, and the heat conduction portion 40c having the convex portion 40c1 being unfolded. Next, the unfolded heat transfer portion 41 is bent to form the heat transfer portion 41. In this manner, the heat transfer portion 41 having the convex portions 40b1 and 40c1 can be easily manufactured, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the heat transfer portion 41.

[0090] (vehicle lighting fixtures) In one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lamp 100 can be provided that includes the vehicle lighting device 1. The above-described description of the vehicle lighting device 1 and modified versions of the vehicle lighting device 1 (for example, the heat transfer section 41, or any other modifications of components made by a person skilled in the art that include the features of the present invention) can all be applied to the vehicle lamp 100.

[0091] In the following, as an example, a case will be described in which the vehicular lamp 100 is a front combination light installed in an automobile. However, the vehicular lamp 100 is not limited to a front combination light installed in an automobile. The vehicular lamp 100 may be any vehicular lamp that is installed in an automobile, a railroad car, or the like.

[0092] FIG. 8 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view illustrating the vehicle lamp 100. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the vehicle lamp 100 includes, for example, the vehicle lighting device 1, a housing 101, a cover 102, an optical element 103, a seal member 104, and a connector 105.

[0093] The vehicle lighting device 1 is attached to the housing 101. The housing 101 holds the mounting portion 11. The housing 101 is box-shaped with one end open. The housing 101 is formed, for example, from a light-opaque resin. The bottom surface of the housing 101 is provided with a mounting hole 101a into which the portion of the mounting portion 11 provided with the bayonet 12 is inserted. A recess is provided around the periphery of the mounting hole 101a into which the bayonet 12 provided on the mounting portion 11 is inserted. Note that although the case where the mounting hole 101a is directly provided in the housing 101 has been exemplified, a mounting member having the mounting hole 101a may also be provided on the housing 101.

[0094] When attaching the vehicle lighting device 1 to the vehicle lamp 100, the portion of the mounting portion 11 where the bayonet 12 is provided is inserted into the mounting hole 101a, and the vehicle lighting device 1 is rotated. Then, for example, the bayonet 12 is held in a fitting portion provided on the periphery of the mounting hole 101a. This type of attachment method is called a twist lock.

[0095] The cover 102 is provided so as to cover the opening of the housing 101. The cover 102 is made of a light-transmitting resin or the like. The cover 102 may also have a function such as a lens.

[0096] Light emitted from the vehicle lighting device 1 is incident on the optical element 103. The optical element 103 reflects, diffuses, guides, and collects the light emitted from the vehicle lighting device 1, and forms a predetermined light distribution pattern. For example, the optical element 103 illustrated in FIG. 8 is a reflector. In this case, the optical element 103 reflects the light emitted from the vehicle lighting device 1 and forms a predetermined light distribution pattern.

[0097] The seal member 104 is provided between the flange 13 and the housing 101. The seal member 104 has an annular shape and is made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone resin.

[0098] When the vehicle lighting device 1 is attached to the vehicle lamp 100, the seal member 104 is sandwiched between the flange 13 and the housing 101. Therefore, the seal member 104 can seal the internal space of the housing 101. Furthermore, the elastic force of the seal member 104 presses the bayonet 12 against the housing 101. Therefore, the vehicle lighting device 1 can be prevented from detaching from the housing 101.

[0099] The connector 105 is fitted to the ends of the plurality of power supply terminals 31 exposed inside the connector holder 15. A lighting circuit and the like are electrically connected to the connector 105. Therefore, by fitting the connector 105 to the ends of the plurality of power supply terminals 31, the lighting circuit and the like can be electrically connected to the light-emitting element 22.

[0100] Furthermore, a seal member 105a is provided on the connector 105. When the connector 105 having the seal member 105a is inserted into the inside of the connector holder 15, the inside of the connector holder 15 is sealed so as to be watertight.

[0101] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, etc. can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as set forth in the claims. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be implemented in combination with each other.

[0102] The following are additional notes regarding the above-described embodiment.

[0103] (Appendix 1) a socket having a first recess extending in a first direction; a light-emitting module provided at one end of the socket and having a light-emitting element; a first heat transfer part including a seat part provided between the light emitting module and the socket and to which the light emitting module is adhered, and a first heat conducting part intersecting the seat part and extending inside the first recess part of the socket; Equipped with the first heat conducting portion has a first protrusion protruding in a second direction intersecting the first direction and a second protrusion protruding in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction; a tip of the first protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the first recess in the second direction; The tip of the second protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the first recess in the third direction.

[0104] (Appendix 2) a socket having a first recess extending in a first direction and a second recess extending in the first direction; a light-emitting module provided at one end of the socket and having a light-emitting element; a second heat transfer part including: a seat part provided between the light emitting module and the socket, to which the light emitting module is adhered; a first heat conduction part intersecting the seat part and extending inside the first recess of the socket; and a second heat conduction part intersecting the seat part and extending inside the second recess of the socket; Equipped with the first heat-conducting portion has a first protrusion protruding in a second direction intersecting the first direction; the second heat-conducting portion has a second protrusion protruding in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction; a tip of the first protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the first recess in the second direction; The tip of the second protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the second recess in the third direction.

[0105] (Appendix 3) 3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein a corner at the tip of the first protrusion is embedded in an inner wall of the first recess.

[0106] (Appendix 4) the socket further includes heat dissipation fins extending in the first direction; 4. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the first heat-conducting portion extends inside the first recess provided in the heat-dissipating fin.

[0107] (Appendix 5) A vehicle lighting device according to any one of appendices 1 to 4; a housing in which the vehicle lighting device is mounted; A vehicle lighting fixture equipped with: [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 vehicle lighting device, 1a central axis, 10 socket, 10a recess, 10b recess, 10c central axis, 11 mounting portion, 14 heat dissipation fin, 20 light emitting module, 21 substrate, 22 light emitting element, 40 heat transfer portion, 40a seat portion, 40b heat conduction portion, 40b1 convex portion, 40b1b corner portion, 40b2 convex portion, 40ba surface, 40bb surface, 40c heat conduction portion, 40c1 convex portion, 40ca surface, 41 heat transfer portion, 43 bonding layer, 100 vehicle lighting fixture, 101 housing

Claims

1. a socket having a first recess extending in a first direction; a light-emitting module provided on one end side of the socket and having a light-emitting element; a first heat transfer part, the first heat transfer part including: a seat part provided between the light emitting module and the socket, the seat part being attached to the light emitting module; and a first heat conduction part intersecting the seat part and extending inside the first recess of the socket; Equipped with the first heat conducting portion has a first convex portion that protrudes in a second direction that intersects with the first direction, and a second convex portion that protrudes in a third direction that intersects with the first direction and the second direction, a tip of the first protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the first recess in the second direction; A vehicle lighting device, wherein a tip of the second protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the first recess in the third direction.

2. a socket having a first recess extending in a first direction and a second recess extending in the first direction; a light-emitting module provided on one end side of the socket and having a light-emitting element; a second heat transfer part including: a seat part provided between the light emitting module and the socket, the seat part being attached to the light emitting module; a first heat conduction part intersecting the seat part and extending inside the first recess of the socket; and a second heat conduction part intersecting the seat part and extending inside the second recess of the socket; Equipped with the first heat conducting portion has a first protrusion protruding in a second direction intersecting the first direction; the second heat-conducting portion has a second protrusion protruding in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction; a tip of the first protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the first recess in the second direction; A vehicle lighting device, wherein a tip of the second protrusion is capable of contacting an inner wall of the second recess in the third direction.

3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a corner at the tip of the first protrusion is engaged with an inner wall of the first recess.

4. the socket further includes heat dissipation fins extending in the first direction; The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first heat-conducting portion extends inside the first recess provided in the heat-dissipating fin.

5. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1; a housing to which the vehicle lighting device is attached; A vehicle lighting fixture equipped with:

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