Lens unit and lighting fixture

Abstract

To provide a lens unit reducing light loss and occurrence of stray light.SOLUTION: A lens unit 26 includes a plurality of lenses 27 and a connection part 28. The plurality of lenses 27 includes at least a first lens 1 and a second lens 2. The connection part 28 connects the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. Each of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2 has emission surfaces 1a, 2a, incidence surfaces 1b, 2b, and reflection surfaces 1c, 2c. The incidence surfaces 1b, 2b are provided at positions facing the emission surfaces 1a, 2a, and are recessed toward the sides of the emission surfaces 1c, 2c. The reflection surfaces 1c, 2c connect the emission surfaces 1a, 2a and the incidence surfaces 1b, 2b, and reflect first light as a part of light incident to the incidence surfaces 1b, 2b to the emission surfaces 1a, 2a. The first lens 1 and the second lens 2 are adjacently connected to each other. The connection part 28 has a light distribution part 29. The light distribution part 29 distributes second light so that the second light different from the first light is emitted to the front of the emission surfaces 1a, 2a.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to lens units and lighting fixtures, and more particularly to lens units including multiple lenses and lighting fixtures including lens units. [Background technology]

[0002] An example of an illumination device (lighting fixture) is described in Patent Document 1. The illumination device described in Patent Document 1 includes a housing, a light source unit, and a translucent cover. The light source unit includes a light source substrate and a lens array (lens unit). The lens array has a rectangular plate portion, a leg plate protruding perpendicularly from the periphery of the plate portion, and a flange portion protruding outward from the tip of the leg plate. The lens array has multiple lens bodies arranged vertically and horizontally on one surface of the plate portion on the side where the leg plate protrudes. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-149188 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the lighting device described in Patent Document 1, multiple lens bodies are integrally formed with a plate portion, and a portion of the light passing through one of the multiple lens bodies may be reflected by the plate portion and pass through an adjacent lens body. In other words, the lighting device may generate stray light. Furthermore, the lighting device may generate light loss because a portion of the light passing through one lens body does not exit from the exit surface of the lens body.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a lens unit and a lighting fixture that reduce light loss and the generation of stray light. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A lens unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a plurality of lenses and a connecting portion. The plurality of lenses include at least a first lens and a second lens. The connecting portion connects the first lens and the second lens. Each of the first lens and the second lens has an exit surface, an entrance surface, and a reflecting surface. The entrance surface is located opposite the exit surface and is recessed toward the exit surface. The reflecting surface connects the exit surface and the entrance surface and reflects a first light, which is a portion of the light incident on the entrance surface, to the exit surface. The first lens and the second lens are connected adjacent to each other via the connecting portion. The connecting portion has a light distribution portion. The light distribution portion distributes the second light, which is a portion of the light incident on the entrance surface and is different from the first light, so that the second light is emitted forward from the exit surface.

[0007] A lighting device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the lens unit, a plurality of light-emitting elements, and a substrate on which the plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, light loss and the generation of stray light are reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lighting fixture including a lens unit according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a light source unit including the lens unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a light source unit including the lens unit. [Figure 4] Fig. 4A is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of the lens unit of the same, and Fig. 4B is an enlarged view of Fig. 4A. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the optical path of light from the light emitting element in the lens unit of the above embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing the optical path of light from the light emitting element in the lens unit of Comparative Example 1. [Figure 7] Fig. 7A is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of a lens unit according to embodiment 2. Fig. 7B is an enlarged view of Fig. 7A. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the optical path of light from the light emitting element in the lens unit of the above embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the optical path of light from the light emitting element in the lens unit of Comparative Example 2. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the optical path of light from the light emitting element in the lens unit according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] Fig. 11A is an explanatory diagram showing the optical path of light from a light emitting element in a lens unit according to embodiment 4. Fig. 11B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of the lens unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Lens units and lighting fixtures according to first to fourth embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. The figures described in the following embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the size and thickness ratios of the components do not necessarily reflect actual dimensional ratios. Furthermore, the configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the first direction D1, second direction D2, and third direction D3 indicated by arrows in the drawings are defined as the front-to-rear direction, left-to-right direction, and up-to-down direction of the lens unit 26 and lighting fixture A1. However, the front-to-rear direction, left-to-right direction, and up-to-down direction are used for convenience to facilitate understanding of the embodiments, and do not define the directions when the lens unit 26 and lighting fixture A1 are used. Furthermore, the arrows "D1," "D2," and "D3" in the drawings are merely for explanatory purposes and do not represent any physical entities.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) (1) Lighting equipment First, a lighting device A1 equipped with a lens unit 26 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0012] The lighting fixture A1 is a floodlight that is primarily used to illuminate (floodlight) soccer stadiums, various sports fields, school playgrounds, etc. As shown in Fig. 1 , the lighting fixture A1 includes a plurality of (two in the illustrated example) light source units 10, a holding member 17, a power supply unit 15, a pair of fixing members 13 (only one is shown in Fig. 1 ), an arm 14, and a display board 19.

[0013] (2) Light source unit 3, each light source unit 10 includes a light source module 21, a lens unit 26, a light shielding plate 25, a heat dissipation unit 6, a heat dissipation sheet 23, a cover 3, a pressing member 5, and a waterproof packing 4. Light from each light source unit 10 is emitted mainly in the direction of an optical axis C1 (see FIG. 2) of each light source unit 10. The optical axis C1 is, for example, parallel to the normal to the front surface 31a of the cover 3.

[0014] (2.1) Light source module As shown in FIG. 3, the light source module 21 includes a plurality of light-emitting elements 21a and a substrate 21b. Each light-emitting element 21a is, for example, an LED (e.g., a packaged white LED for lighting). The substrate 21b is, for example, a metal-based substrate. More specifically, the substrate 21b is, for example, a metal-based substrate based on an aluminum plate. The substrate 21b is plate-shaped (e.g., flat). The substrate 21b is, for example, white. The plurality of light-emitting elements 21a are mounted on one surface (front surface) of the substrate 21b. More specifically, the plurality of light-emitting elements 21a are mounted on the front surface of the substrate 21b so as to be aligned vertically and horizontally (up and down, left and right) at intervals. That is, the light source module 21 is an LED module in which the plurality of light-emitting elements 21a are arranged on the front surface of the substrate 21b. A normal direction (first direction D1) of the substrate 21b coincides with, for example, the optical axis C1 (see FIG. 2) of the light source unit 10.

[0015] (2.2) Lens unit As shown in FIG. 3, the lens unit 26 includes a plurality of lenses 27 and a connecting member 24. Each lens 27 has, for example, a truncated cone shape. Each lens 27 is made of a light-transmitting resin (for example, acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, ABS resin, etc.). The connecting member 24 connects the plurality of lenses 27. The connecting member 24 has, for example, a plate shape (for example, a rectangular plate shape). The connecting member 24 is made of a light-transmitting resin (for example, acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, ABS resin, etc.). The plurality of lenses 27 and the connecting member 24 are, for example, configured as a continuous, integrated unit.

[0016] The plurality of lenses 27 are connected to the connecting member 24 while penetrating the connecting member 24 in the thickness direction (first direction D1). More specifically, each lens 27 is connected to the connecting member 24, for example, so that the emission surface is flush with the first surface (front surface) of the connecting member 24. Each lens 27 is connected to the connecting member 24, for example, so that the incidence surface and reflection surface are located rearward of the second surface (rear surface) of the connecting member 24. The plurality of lenses 27 are arranged in positions corresponding one-to-one to the plurality of light-emitting elements 21a. In other words, the plurality of lenses 27 are arranged so as to face one-to-one with the plurality of light-emitting elements 21a. In short, the plurality of lenses 27 are arranged, for example, in a lattice pattern. In other words, the plurality of lenses 27 are arranged in a plurality of rows in the up-down direction (third direction D3) of the light source unit 10. The plurality of lenses 27 are also arranged in a plurality of rows in the left-right direction (second direction D2) of the light source unit 10.

[0017] 3, the connecting member 24 has a plurality of fixing pieces 24a. Each fixing piece 24a is, for example, cylindrical. The fixing pieces 24a protrude rearward from the rear surface of the connecting member 24. The connecting member 24 is fixed to the heat dissipation unit 6 via the fixing pieces 24a. Details of the lens unit 26 will be described later.

[0018] (2.3) Shade The light shielding plate 25 reduces light emitted from the light source module 21 that does not exit from the exit surface of each lens 27 of the lens unit 26 (for example, light that exits from parts of the lens unit 26 other than the multiple lenses 27) from exiting from the light source unit 10. As shown in FIG. 3, the light shielding plate 25 is plate-shaped (for example, rectangular plate-shaped). The light shielding plate 25 has multiple openings 25a. The multiple openings 25a are arranged in positions that correspond one-to-one to the multiple lenses 27. In other words, the multiple openings 25a are arranged so as to face the multiple lenses 27 one-to-one. Each opening 25a passes light from the exit surface of each lens 27. The light shielding plate 25 is arranged on one surface (front surface) of the lens unit 26. The light shielding plate 25 is fixed to the connecting member 24 of the lens unit 26.

[0019] (2.4) Heat dissipation unit The heat dissipation unit 6 dissipates heat generated in the light source module 21 to the outside of the light source unit 10. As shown in FIG. 3, the heat dissipation unit 6 has a base portion 61 and a plurality of heat dissipation fins 62. The base portion 61 is, for example, plate-shaped (for example, rectangular plate-shaped). The material of the base portion 61 is, for example, a thermally conductive material (for example, metal). More specifically, the material of the base portion 61 is, for example, an aluminum alloy.

[0020] The substrate 21b of the light source module 21 is attached to a first surface (front surface) in the thickness direction (first direction D1) of the base portion 61 using a plurality of first screws (not shown). This mechanically and thermally connects the substrate 21b of the light source module 21 to the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6. In addition, a plurality of heat dissipation fins 62 are attached to a second surface (rear surface) in the thickness direction of the base portion 61.

[0021] Each heat dissipation fin 62 is, for example, plate-shaped (for example, rectangular plate-shaped). Each heat dissipation fin 62 is made of, for example, a thermally conductive material (for example, metal). More specifically, each heat dissipation fin 62 is made of, for example, an aluminum alloy. Each heat dissipation fin 62 is attached to the base portion 61 so as to protrude rearward from the rear surface of the base portion 61. Furthermore, the multiple heat dissipation fins 62 are attached to the rear surface of the base portion 61, for example, at regular intervals.

[0022] The heat dissipation unit 6 dissipates heat generated in the light source module 21 to the outside of the light source unit 10, thereby reducing the temperature rise of the light source module 21 and improving the light emission efficiency of the light source module 21.

[0023] (2.5) Heat dissipation sheet The heat dissipation sheet 23 efficiently conducts heat generated in the light source module 21 from the substrate 21b of the light source module 21 to the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6. The heat dissipation sheet 23 is, for example, a rectangular sheet. The material of the heat dissipation sheet 23 is a material that has electrical insulation and thermal conductivity. Examples of materials that have electrical insulation and thermal conductivity include elastomer materials, silicone gel, and acrylic resins containing fillers. The planar size of the heat dissipation sheet 23 is, for example, the same as the planar size of the substrate 21b.

[0024] The heat dissipation sheet 23 is disposed between the substrate 21b of the light source module 21 and the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6. The heat dissipation sheet 23 efficiently conducts the heat generated in the light source module 21 to the heat dissipation unit 6, thereby further reducing the temperature rise of the light source module 21 and further improving the light emitting efficiency of the light source module 21.

[0025] (2.6) Cover The cover 3 transmits light that passes through the multiple openings 25a in the light-shielding plate 25. The cover 3 also covers the light source module 21, the lens unit 26, and the light-shielding plate 25. The cover 3 has a cover main body 31 and a flange 32. The cover main body 31 is box-shaped (e.g., rectangular box-shaped) with one side open. The cover main body 31 is made of, for example, a light-transmitting material (e.g., a light-transmitting resin). The flange 32 is provided at the rear end of the cover main body 31 in the front-to-rear direction (first direction D1). The flange 32 protrudes outward from the rear end of the cover main body 31 around the entire periphery. The flange 32 is made of, for example, a light-transmitting material (e.g., a light-transmitting resin).

[0026] (2.7) Presser member The pressing member 5 secures the cover 3 to the heat dissipation unit 6. The pressing member 5 is frame-shaped (e.g., rectangular frame-shaped). The material of the pressing member 5 is, for example, metal (e.g., stainless steel plate). The size of the pressing member 5 is, for example, slightly larger than the size of the flange 32 of the cover 3. The pressing member 5 is fixed to the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6 using, for example, a plurality of second screws 72 (see FIG. 2). The pressing member 5 is fixed to the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6 with the flange 32 of the cover 3 and a waterproof packing 4 (see FIG. 3), which will be described later, sandwiched between the pressing member 5 and the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6.

[0027] (2.8) Waterproof packing The waterproof gasket 4 seals the gap between the flange 32 of the cover 3 and the pressing member 5. The waterproof gasket 4 is frame-shaped (for example, rectangular frame-shaped). The waterproof gasket 4 is made of a material that is electrically insulating and elastic (for example, silicone rubber). The waterproof gasket 4 is disposed between the flange 32 of the cover 3 and the pressing member 5.

[0028] (2.9) Light source unit assembly procedure The assembly procedure for the light source unit 10 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Note that the assembly procedure described below is an example, and the order of some steps may be changed.

[0029] First, the worker performing the assembly work attaches the light source module 21 to the front surface of the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6. Next, the worker fixes the light shielding plate 25 to the connecting member 24 of the lens unit 26, and fixes the multiple fixing pieces 24a of the connecting member 24 to the heat dissipation unit 6. Then, the worker covers one surface (front surface) in the thickness direction of the flange portion 32 of the cover 3 with the waterproof packing 4, and fixes the pressing member 5 to the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6 with the waterproof packing 4 and the flange portion 32 of the cover 3 sandwiched between the pressing member 5 and the base portion 61 of the heat dissipation unit 6. With the above procedure, the assembly of the light source unit 10 is completed.

[0030] (3) Holding member As shown in FIG. 1 , the holding member 17 holds a plurality of (two in the illustrated example) light source units 10. More specifically, the holding member 17 holds the two light source units 10 in a state where the two light source units 10 are aligned in the vertical direction (third direction D3). The material of the holding member 17 is, for example, metal (for example, stainless steel plate). The two light source units 10 are attached to the holding member 17 using a plurality of third screws 73.

[0031] (4) Power supply unit The power supply unit 15 lights up the plurality of light source units 10. The power supply unit 15 has a power supply device (not shown), a case 18, a wiring box 16, and a plurality of (for example, two) power supply lines (not shown).

[0032] The power supply device converts AC power supplied from a commercial power source (not shown) into DC power. The power supply device also operates to make the current value of the DC current supplied to each light source unit 10 match a target value (for example, the rated current value of each light source module 21). The power supply device may also have a function (dimming function) to adjust the target value of the DC current supplied to each light source unit 10 to a value lower than the rated current value of each light source module 21.

[0033] The case 18 houses the power supply device. The case 18 is, for example, box-shaped (e.g., rectangular box-shaped). The case 18 is made of, for example, metal (e.g., aluminum alloy). The wiring box 16 is provided on one surface (rear surface) of the case 18 in the front-to-rear direction (first direction D1). A power line (not shown) from a commercial power source is electrically and mechanically connected to the wiring box 16. The wiring box 16 is also electrically and mechanically connected to the power supply device. When the power line is connected to the wiring box 16, it transmits AC power from the commercial power source to the power supply device.

[0034] The two power feed lines are electrically and mechanically connected to the power supply device. One of the two power feed lines is electrically and mechanically connected to one of the light source units 10 and transmits DC current from the power supply device to the one light source unit 10. The other of the two power feed lines is electrically and mechanically connected to the remaining light source unit 10 and transmits DC current from the power supply device to the remaining light source unit 10.

[0035] (5) Fixing member The pair of fixing members 13 fix the power supply unit 15 to the holding member 17. In other words, the power supply unit 15 is fixed to the holding member 17 via the pair of fixing members 13. The pair of fixing members 13 are made of, for example, a metal (for example, an aluminum alloy). The pair of fixing members 13 are screwed to the power supply unit 15. The pair of fixing members 13 are also screwed to the holding member 17.

[0036] (6) Arm The arm 14 supports the holding member 17. More specifically, the arm 14 supports the holding member 17 so that the holding member 17 is rotatable about a rotation axis R1 (see FIG. 1). In other words, the arm 14 supports the holding member 17 so that the plurality of light source units 10 are rotatable about the rotation axis R1. In short, the lighting device A1 is configured so that the plurality of light source units 10 rotate about the rotation axis R1. The arm 14 is substantially U-shaped. The material of the arm 14 is, for example, metal (e.g., aluminum alloy). The arm 14 is attached to the holding member 17 using two mounting screws 71. The arm 14 is fixed to a stand (not shown) provided at the installation location, such as a stadium.

[0037] (7)Display board The display plate 19 displays the rotation angles of the plurality of light source units 10. As shown in FIG. 1 , the display plate 19 is disk-shaped. The display plate 19 is made of, for example, metal (e.g., aluminum alloy). One surface of the display plate 19 is marked with a plurality of scales. The plurality of scales are represented, for example, by line segments along the radial direction of the display plate 19, and are engraved on the one surface of the display plate 19. A hole (not shown) is provided in the center of the display plate 19, through which one of the two mounting screws 71 is inserted. The display plate 19 is disposed between the arm 14 and the holding member 17. When the arm 14 is attached to the holding member 17, the display plate 19 is sandwiched between the arm 14 and the holding member 17.

[0038] (8) Assembly procedure for lighting fixtures The assembly procedure for the lighting device A1 will be described below. Note that the assembly procedure described below is an example, and the order of some steps may be changed.

[0039] First, the worker performing the assembly work attaches two light source units 10 to holding member 17. Next, the worker fixes power supply unit 15 to holding member 17 via a pair of fixing members 13. Then, the worker connects one power supply line from power supply unit 15 to one of light source units 10, and connects the other power supply line from power supply unit 15 to the remaining light source unit 10. Finally, the worker attaches arm 14 to holding member 17 so that display board 19 is positioned between arm 14 and holding member 17. With the above steps, the assembly of lighting fixture A1 is completed.

[0040] (9) Lens unit details The lens unit 26 will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS.

[0041] Lens unit 26 includes a plurality of lenses 27 and a connecting portion 28 (see FIG. 4A). As shown in FIG. 4A, the plurality of lenses 27 includes at least a first lens 1 and a second lens 2. Note that FIGS. 4A to 5 are schematic diagrams of lens unit 26, and in order to facilitate understanding of the description of the embodiment, three lenses 27 (two first lenses 1 and one second lens 2) are illustrated as an example.

[0042] (9.1) Lenses Each first lens 1 has, for example, a truncated cone shape and includes a first light exit surface 1a, a first light entrance surface 1b, and a first reflecting surface 1c.

[0043] The first exit surface 1a is the front surface of the first lens 1. The first exit surface 1a is a surface that emits light that passes through the first lens 1 to the outside of the first lens 1. The first exit surface 1a is, for example, a flat surface.

[0044] The first incident surface 1b is the rear surface of the first lens 1. The first incident surface 1b is a surface onto which light from the light emitting elements 21a arranged one-to-one opposite to each other enters. The first incident surface 1b is provided at a position opposite to the first exit surface 1a. The first incident surface 1b is also arranged in front of the light emitting elements 21a. The first incident surface 1b is recessed in a concave shape (for example, a cylindrical shape with a bottom) toward the first exit surface 1a. As shown in FIG. 4B, the first incident surface 1b has a first inner bottom surface 7a and a first inner circumferential surface 8a.

[0045] The first inner bottom surface 7a is the bottom surface of the first incident surface 1b. Furthermore, the first inner bottom surface 7a guides light from the light-emitting element 21a that is incident on the first inner bottom surface 7a to the first exit surface 1a. The first inner bottom surface 7a is configured to protrude on the side opposite to the first exit surface 1a. For example, the first inner bottom surface 7a is a convex surface that protrudes on the side opposite to the first exit surface 1a.

[0046] The first inner circumferential surface 8a is the inner circumferential surface of the first incident surface 1b. The first inner circumferential surface 8a is configured to be able to guide the light emitted from the light emitting element 21a that has entered the first inner circumferential surface 8a to the first reflecting surface 1c.

[0047] The first reflecting surface 1c is the outer peripheral surface of the first lens 1. The first reflecting surface 1c connects the first exit surface 1a and the first entrance surface 1b. The first reflecting surface 1c is configured so that its width in the up-down direction (third direction D3) and the left-right direction (second direction D2) gradually increases from the rear to the front of the first lens 1. The first reflecting surface 1c is configured as a convex curved surface that protrudes rearward. The first reflecting surface 1c reflects a portion of the light that has entered the first inner peripheral surface 8a to the first exit surface 1a.

[0048] The second lens 2 has, for example, a truncated cone shape and includes a second exit surface 2a, a second entrance surface 2b, and a second reflecting surface 2c.

[0049] The second exit surface 2a is the front surface of the second lens 2. The second exit surface 2a is a surface that emits light that passes through the second lens 2 to the outside of the second lens 2. The second exit surface 2a is, for example, a flat surface.

[0050] The second incident surface 2b is the rear surface of the second lens 2. The second incident surface 2b is a surface onto which light from the light emitting elements 21a arranged one-to-one opposite to each other enters. The second incident surface 2b is provided at a position opposite to the second exit surface 2a. The second incident surface 2b is also arranged in front of the light emitting elements 21a. The second incident surface 2b is recessed in a concave shape (for example, a cylindrical shape with a bottom) toward the second exit surface 2a. As shown in FIG. 4B, the second incident surface 2b has a second inner bottom surface 7b and a second inner circumferential surface 8b.

[0051] The second inner bottom surface 7b is the bottom surface of the second incident surface 2b. The second inner bottom surface 7b guides light from the light-emitting element 21a that is incident on the second inner bottom surface 7b to the second exit surface 2a. The second inner bottom surface 7b is configured to protrude on the side opposite to the second exit surface 2a. For example, the second inner bottom surface 7b is a convex surface that protrudes on the side opposite to the second exit surface 2a.

[0052] The second inner circumferential surface 8b is the inner circumferential surface of the second incident surface 2b. The second inner circumferential surface 8b is configured to be able to guide the light emitted from the light emitting element 21a that is incident on the second inner circumferential surface 8b to the second reflecting surface 2c.

[0053] The second reflecting surface 2c is the outer peripheral surface of the second lens 2. The second reflecting surface 2c connects the second exit surface 2a and the second entrance surface 2b. The second reflecting surface 2c is configured so that its width in the up-down direction (third direction D3) and the left-right direction (second direction D2) gradually increases from the rear to the front of the second lens 2. The second reflecting surface 2c is configured as a convex curved surface that protrudes rearward. The second reflecting surface 2c reflects a portion of the light that is incident on the second inner peripheral surface 8b to the second exit surface 2a. In this embodiment, the light that is incident on the second entrance surface 2b and reflected by the second reflecting surface 2c is the first light.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 4A, the first lens 1 and the second lens 2 are adjacent to each other and connected to each other.

[0055] (9.2) Connection part Lens unit 26 has connecting portion 28 at a portion where first lens 1 and second lens 2 are adjacent to each other and connected. In short, connecting portion 28 is a portion where first lens 1 and second lens 2 are adjacent to each other and overlap. More specifically, connecting portion 28 is a portion where first reflecting surface 1c of first lens 1 and second reflecting surface 2c of second lens 2 overlap.

[0056] The connecting portion 28 has a light distribution portion 29. As shown in, for example, FIGS. 4A and 5, the light distribution portion 29 distributes light that is incident on the second incident surface 2b and is not reflected by the second reflecting surface 2c so that light that is incident on the second incident surface 2b and is not reflected by the second reflecting surface 2c is emitted forward toward the second exit surface 2a. The light distribution portion 29 is configured to be recessed toward the exit surfaces (first exit surface 1a and second exit surface 2a) of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. More specifically, the light distribution portion 29 is configured by a valley-shaped (e.g., V-shaped) groove. As shown in FIG. 4B, the opening angle θ1 of the groove of the light distribution portion 29 is smaller than the angle θ2 formed between the reflecting surface 1c of the first lens 1 and the reflecting surface 2c of the second lens 2. The opening angle θ1 of the groove of the light distribution portion 29 is, for example, an angle within a range of 5°±2.5°. The angle θ2 formed between the reflective surface 1c of the first lens 1 and the reflective surface 2c of the second lens 2 is, for example, an angle within the range of 105°±45°. In this embodiment, the opening angle θ1 of the groove of the light distribution section 29 is set to an angle that will not cause cracks to occur in the lens unit 26. In this embodiment, the light that is incident on the second incident surface 2b and is not reflected by the second reflective surface 2c is the second light.

[0057] Furthermore, light distribution section 29 is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view along a direction (vertical direction) C2 (see FIG. 4A) orthogonal to the direction in which first lens 1 and second lens 2 are aligned. In other words, light distribution section 29 is configured to be elongated so as to have the same cross-sectional shape in a direction (depth direction into the paper in FIG. 4A) orthogonal to both the direction in which first lens 1 and second lens 2 are aligned and the vertical direction C2. Note that vertical direction C2 of first lens 1 and second lens 2 coincides with optical axis C1 of light source unit 10, for example.

[0058] Here, lens unit 80 of Comparative Example 1 (see FIG. 6) will be illustrated. As shown in FIG. 6, lens unit 80 of Comparative Example 1 differs from lens unit 26 of Embodiment 1 (FIGS. 3 to 5) in that lens unit 80 of Comparative Example 1 does not include light distribution section 29 in lens unit 26 of Embodiment 1. Note that, with regard to lens unit 80 of Comparative Example 1, the same components as those of lens unit 26 of Embodiment 1 (FIGS. 3 to 5) are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0059] In the lens unit 80 of Comparative Example 1, light that is incident on the second entrance surface 2b of the second lens 2 and is not reflected by the second reflecting surface 2c is reflected by the first exit surface 1a of the first lens 1 (see FIG. 6). The light that is reflected by the first exit surface 1a of the first lens 1 may pass through the first reflecting surface 1c of the first lens 1. Therefore, a portion of the light that passes through the first reflecting surface 1c of the first lens 1 may be diffused by the surface of the substrate 21b of the light source module 21. Furthermore, a portion of the light that passes through the first reflecting surface 1c of the first lens 1 may be absorbed by the substrate 21b of the light source module 21. In other words, the lens unit 80 of Comparative Example 1 may cause light loss and stray light.

[0060] On the other hand, in lens unit 26 of embodiment 1, light that is incident on second entrance surface 2b of second lens 2 and is not reflected by second reflection surface 2c is distributed by light distribution section 29 and emitted forward from second exit surface 2a (see FIG. 5). Therefore, lens unit 26 of embodiment 1 reduces light loss and stray light generation more than lens unit 80 of comparative example 1.

[0061] (10) Effects In lens unit 26 according to embodiment 1, connecting portion 28 connecting first lens 1 and second lens 2 has light distribution portion 29. More specifically, connecting portion 28, which is the portion where first reflecting surface 1 c of first lens 1 and second reflecting surface 2 c of second lens 2 overlap, has light distribution portion 29. Light distribution portion 29 is configured to be recessed toward the exit surfaces (first exit surface 1 a and second exit surface 2 a) of first lens 1 and second lens 2. Therefore, lens unit 26 according to embodiment 1 reduces light loss and stray light generation more than lens unit 80 of comparative example 1.

[0062] Furthermore, light distribution section 29 is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view taken along direction C2 (see FIG. 4A) perpendicular to first lens 1 and second lens 2. Therefore, lens unit 26 according to embodiment 1 reduces light loss and stray light generation more than lens unit 80 according to comparative example 1.

[0063] Furthermore, light distribution section 29 includes valley-shaped grooves, and opening angle θ1 of the grooves of light distribution section 29 is smaller than angle θ2 formed between first reflecting surface 1c of first lens 1 and second reflecting surface 2c of second lens 2. Therefore, lens unit 26 according to embodiment 1 has a wider range in which light that is incident on second entrance surface 2b of second lens 2 and is not reflected by second reflecting surface 2c can be distributed, for example, and therefore further reduces light loss and the occurrence of stray light than lens unit 80 of comparative example 1.

[0064] The lighting device A1 according to the first embodiment includes a lens unit 26, a plurality of light-emitting elements 21a, and a substrate 21b. The substrate 21b supports the plurality of light-emitting elements 21a. Therefore, since the lighting device A1 according to the first embodiment includes the lens unit 26, it reduces light loss and stray light compared to the lens unit 80 of the first comparative example.

[0065] (11) Variation Although V-shaped grooves are exemplified as valley-shaped grooves in light distribution section 29, they are not limited to V-shaped grooves. Light distribution section 29 may be configured as a valley-shaped groove, for example, with a V-shaped groove having a flat bottom. Light distribution section 29 may be configured as a valley-shaped groove, for example, with a V-shaped groove having a curved bottom. In this case, in lens unit 26 of the modified example, it is possible to further reduce the occurrence of cracks in lens unit 26. Light distribution section 29 may be configured as a valley-shaped groove, for example, with a U-shaped groove.

[0066] The lenses 27 and the connecting member 24 are configured as a continuous, integrated unit, but they may be configured as separate pieces and then combined into an integrated unit.

[0067] The lenses 27 in the lens unit 26 are arranged in a grid pattern, but may also be arranged in a staggered pattern, for example.

[0068] The first exit surface 1a of the first lens 1 is not limited to a flat surface, and may be, for example, a surface having projections and recesses. The second exit surface 2a of the second lens 2 is not limited to a flat surface, and may be, for example, a surface having projections and recesses.

[0069] Each light emitting element 21a is not limited to an LED, but may be, for example, an organic electroluminescence element, a semiconductor laser element, or the like.

[0070] The first embodiment and the modifications described above are merely a part of the various embodiments and modifications of the present disclosure.

[0071] (Embodiment 2) As shown in Figures 7A to 8, lens unit 26 according to embodiment 2 differs from lens unit 26 according to embodiment 1 in that the shapes of connecting portion 28 and light distribution portion 29 are different. Note that, with respect to lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to embodiment 2, components similar to those of lens unit 26 (Figures 3 to 5) and lighting device A1 (Figures 1 to 3) according to embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted. Figures 7A to 8 also show schematic diagrams of lens unit 26, and in order to facilitate understanding of the description of the embodiments, three lenses 27 (two first lenses 1 and one second lens 2) are illustrated.

[0072] (1) Connecting part 7A , lens unit 26 of embodiment 2 has connecting portion 28 provided in a part of connecting member 24. More specifically, connecting portion 28 is provided in a portion where first light exit surface 1 a of first lens 1 and second light exit surface 2 a of second lens 2 are flush with each other. In short, connecting portion 28 is a portion where first light exit surface 1 a of first lens 1 and second light exit surface 2 a of second lens 2 are connected. In this embodiment, the thickness of connecting portion 28 is the same as the thickness of connecting member 24.

[0073] (2) Light distribution section The light distribution portion 29 is a convex protrusion. More specifically, the light distribution portion 29 has a shape such that its width gradually narrows toward the tip. For example, the light distribution portion 29 is a mountain-shaped protrusion. In this embodiment, the light distribution portion 29 is, for example, conical. In other words, the light distribution portion 29 has, for example, a triangular shape (cross-sectional shape) in a cross section taken along the vertical direction C2 of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. As shown in FIG. 7B , the width W1 of the bottom surface of the light distribution portion 29 is greater than the width W2 of the gap between the first lens 1 and the second lens 2 at the connecting portion 28. Furthermore, the light distribution portion 29 is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross section taken along the vertical direction C2 of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. In other words, the light distribution section 29 is configured to be elongated so as to have the same cross-sectional shape in a direction (in Figure 7A, the depth direction relative to the paper surface) perpendicular to both the direction in which the first lens and second lens 2 are aligned and the vertical direction C2.

[0074] Here, a lens unit 90 of Comparative Example 2 (see FIG. 9) will be illustrated. As shown in FIG. 9, the lens unit 90 of Comparative Example 2 differs from the lens unit 26 of Embodiment 2 (FIGS. 7A to 8) in that the lens unit 90 of Comparative Example 2 does not include the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 of Embodiment 2. Note that, with respect to the lens unit 90 of Comparative Example 2, the same components as those of the lens unit 26 of Embodiment 2 (FIGS. 7A to 8) are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0075] In the lens unit 90 of Comparative Example 2, light that is incident on the second incident surface 2b of the second lens 2 and is not reflected by the second reflecting surface 2c is reflected by the first exit surface 1a of the first lens 1 (see FIG. 9). The light that is reflected by the first exit surface 1a of the first lens 1 may pass through the first incident surface 1b of the first lens 1. Therefore, a portion of the light that passes through the first incident surface 1b of the first lens 1 may be diffused on the surface of the substrate 21b of the light source module 21. Furthermore, a portion of the light that passes through the first incident surface 1b of the first lens 1 may be absorbed by the substrate 21b of the light source module 21. In other words, the lens unit 90 of Comparative Example 2 may cause optical loss and stray light.

[0076] On the other hand, in lens unit 26 of embodiment 2, light that is incident on second entrance surface 2b of second lens 2 and is not reflected by second reflection surface 2c is distributed by light distribution section 29 and emitted forward from second exit surface 2a (see FIG. 8). Therefore, lens unit 26 of embodiment 2 reduces light loss and stray light generation more than lens unit 90 of comparative example 2.

[0077] (3) Effects In lens unit 26 according to embodiment 2, connecting portion 28 connecting first lens 1 and second lens 2 has light distribution portion 29. More specifically, connecting portion 28, which is the portion connecting first light exit surface 1 a of first lens 1 and second light exit surface 2 a of second lens 2, has light distribution portion 29. Light distribution portion 29 includes a convex protrusion. Therefore, lens unit 26 according to embodiment 2 reduces light loss and the occurrence of stray light more than lens unit 90 of comparative example 2.

[0078] Furthermore, the light distribution portion 29 has a shape in which its width gradually narrows toward the tip. More specifically, the light distribution portion 29 includes a mountain-shaped protrusion. For example, the light distribution portion 29 is cone-shaped. Therefore, the lens unit 26 according to the second embodiment reduces light loss and stray light more than the lens unit 90 of the second comparative example.

[0079] Furthermore, light distribution section 29 is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view taken along direction C2 (see FIG. 7A) perpendicular to first lens 1 and second lens 2. Therefore, lens unit 26 according to embodiment 2 further reduces light loss and the occurrence of stray light compared to lens unit 90 of comparative example 2.

[0080] 7B, width W1 of the bottom surface of light distribution section 29 is larger than width W2 between first lens 1 and second lens 2 at connecting section 28. Therefore, lens unit 26 according to embodiment 2 further reduces light loss and the occurrence of stray light than lens unit 90 of comparative example 2.

[0081] (4) Variations As a modification of Embodiment 2, modifications similar to those of lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to the modification of Embodiment 1 are possible. Therefore, the lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to the modification above also achieve the same effects as those of lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to Embodiment 2.

[0082] The thickness of connecting portion 28 is the same as the thickness of connecting member 24, but may be different. Light distribution portion 29 has a triangular cross-sectional shape, but may also have a rectangular shape, for example. However, when light distribution portion 29 has a triangular cross-sectional shape, light that is incident on second incident surface 2b and is not reflected by second reflecting surface 2c can be further emitted forward from second exit surface 2a.

[0083] The light distribution section 29 may be configured, for example, to be continuous and integral with other light distribution sections 29. In other words, the light distribution section 29 may be configured to be continuous and integral with other light distribution sections 29 so as to be aligned in a straight line. In short, the light distribution section 29 is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view taken along the perpendicular direction C2 of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. The light distribution section 29 is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view taken along the perpendicular direction C2 of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2, but this configuration is not essential.

[0084] Light distribution section 29 is provided at connecting section 28, which is the portion connecting first exit surface 1a of first lens 1 and second exit surface 2a of second lens 2, but may also be provided, for example, at the circumferential edge of first exit surface 1a of first lens 1. Light distribution section 29 may also be provided, for example, at the circumferential edge of second exit surface 2a of second lens 2. That is, light distribution section 29 only needs to be provided at least at connecting section 28. This further reduces light loss and the occurrence of stray light in lens unit 26 of the modified example.

[0085] The configurations of the connecting portion 28 and the light distribution portion 29 in the lens unit 26 according to the second embodiment may be used in the lens unit 26 according to the first embodiment. In this case, the connecting portion 28 has a first connecting portion where the first reflecting surface 1c of the first lens 1 and the second reflecting surface 2c of the second lens 2 overlap, and a second connecting portion where the first exit surface 1a of the first lens 1 and the second exit surface 2a of the second lens 2 are connected. The first connecting portion is the connecting portion 28 of the lens unit 26 according to the first embodiment. The second connecting portion is the connecting portion 28 of the lens unit 26 according to the second embodiment. The light distribution portion 29 has a first light distribution portion recessed toward the exit surfaces (first exit surface 1a and second exit surface 2a) of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2, and a second light distribution portion including a convex protrusion. The first light distribution portion is the light distribution portion 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the first embodiment. The second light distribution section is light distribution section 29 of lens unit 26 of embodiment 2. The first connection section has a first light distribution section. The second connection section has a second light distribution section. As a result, lens unit 26 of the modified example reduces light loss and the generation of stray light more than lens unit 26 of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2. Furthermore, lens unit 26 of the modified example can have connecting section 28 stronger than lens unit 26 of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, further reducing the occurrence of cracks in lens unit 26.

[0086] The second embodiment and the modifications described above are merely a part of the various embodiments and modifications of the present disclosure.

[0087] (Embodiment 3) As shown in Fig. 10, the lens unit 26 according to the third embodiment differs from the lens unit 26 according to the second embodiment in that the shape of the light distribution section 29 is different. Note that, with respect to the lens unit 26 and the lighting device A1 according to the third embodiment, the same components as those of the lens unit 26 (Figs. 7A to 8) and the lighting device A1 (Figs. 1 to 3) according to the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of the lens unit 26, and in order to facilitate understanding of the description of the embodiments, three lenses 27 (two first lenses 1 and one second lens 2) are illustrated.

[0088] (1) Light distribution section 10, light distribution section 29 has a truncated cone shape. In other words, light distribution section 29 has a trapezoidal shape in a cross section taken along direction C2 perpendicular to first lens 1 and second lens 2 (cross-sectional shape).

[0089] In the lens unit 26 of the third embodiment, similarly to the lens unit 26 of the second embodiment, light that is incident on the second entrance surface 2b of the second lens 2 and is not reflected by the second reflection surface 2c is distributed by the light distribution section 29 and is emitted forward from the second exit surface 2a (see FIG. 10 ). Therefore, the lens unit 26 of the third embodiment also reduces light loss and the generation of stray light more than the lens unit 90 of the second comparative example.

[0090] (2) Effects In the lens unit 26 according to the third embodiment, the light distribution section 29 has a truncated cone shape, and therefore there is less concern about the tip of the light distribution section 29 breaking than in the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the second embodiment, and deterioration of the tip of the light distribution section 29 is reduced. In short, in the lens unit 26 according to the third embodiment, it is possible to reduce deterioration (aging deterioration) of the light distribution section 29 more than in the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the second embodiment.

[0091] (3) Variations As a modification of Embodiment 3, modifications similar to those of lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to the modification of Embodiment 2 are possible. Therefore, the lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to the modification above also achieve the same effects as those of lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to Embodiment 3.

[0092] The light distribution section 29 is not limited to a truncated cone shape and may be, for example, a truncated pyramid shape. Furthermore, the light distribution section 29 may be, for example, a hemispherical shape. In other words, the light distribution section 29 may have a semicircular shape in a cross section (cross-sectional shape) taken along the perpendicular direction C2 of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. Therefore, in the lens unit 26 of the modified example, the light distribution section 29 is hemispherical, and therefore deterioration of the tip of the light distribution section 29 is reduced more than in the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 of the third embodiment. That is, in the lens unit 26 of the modified example, deterioration of the light distribution section 29 can be reduced more than in the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 of the second embodiment.

[0093] The third embodiment and the modifications described above are merely a part of the various embodiments and modifications of the present disclosure.

[0094] (Embodiment 4) As shown in Figures 11A and 11B, the lens unit 26 according to the fourth embodiment differs from the lens unit 26 according to the second embodiment in that the shape of the light distribution section 29 is different. Note that, with respect to the lens unit 26 and the lighting device A1 according to the fourth embodiment, the same components as those of the lens unit 26 (Figures 7A to 8) and the lighting device A1 (Figures 1 to 3) according to the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. Figures 11A and 11B are schematic diagrams of the lens unit 26, and in order to facilitate understanding of the description of the embodiments, three lenses 27 (two first lenses 1 and one second lens 2) are illustrated.

[0095] (1) Light distribution section 11A and 11B, the light distribution unit 29 has a plurality of (three in the illustrated example) protrusions 9. Each protrusion 9 is, for example, conical. In other words, each protrusion 9 has a triangular shape in a cross section (cross-sectional shape) taken along the perpendicular direction C2 of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. The height H1 of each protrusion 9 is smaller than the thickness H2 of the connecting portion 28. Furthermore, the total width W1 of the protrusions 9, which is the sum of the widths of the bottom surfaces of the protrusions 9, is larger than the width W2 between the first lens 1 and the second lens 2 at the connecting portion 28. In other words, the width W1 of the bottom surface of the light distribution unit 29 is larger than the width W2 between the first lens 1 and the second lens 2 at the connecting portion 28. In this embodiment, the width of the bottom surface of each protrusion 9 is the diameter of the bottom surface (circle) of each protrusion 9.

[0096] In lens unit 26 of embodiment 4, similar to lens unit 26 of embodiment 2, light that is incident on second entrance surface 2b of second lens 2 and is not reflected by second reflection surface 2c is distributed by light distribution section 29 and emitted forward from second exit surface 2a (see FIG. 11A). Therefore, lens unit 26 of embodiment 4 also reduces light loss and stray light generation more than lens unit 90 of comparative example 2.

[0097] (2) Effects In the lens unit 26 according to the fourth embodiment, the light distribution section 29 has a plurality of protrusions 9, and the height H1 of each protrusion 9 is smaller than the thickness H2 of the connecting portion 28. That is, each protrusion 9 of the lens unit 26 according to the fourth embodiment has a lower height (shorter back) than the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the second or third embodiment. Therefore, the lens unit 26 according to the fourth embodiment reduces deterioration of the tip of the light distribution section 29 more than the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the second or third embodiment. That is, the lens unit 26 according to the fourth embodiment can reduce deterioration of the light distribution section 29 more than the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the third embodiment. Furthermore, the lens unit 26 according to the fourth embodiment can reduce deterioration of the light distribution section 29 more than the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the second embodiment.

[0098] (3) Variations As a modification of the fourth embodiment, modifications similar to those of the lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to the modification of the second embodiment are possible. Therefore, the lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to the above modification also achieve the same effects as the lens unit 26 and lighting device A1 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0099] The number of protrusions 9 is not limited to three and may be four or more. The number of protrusions 9 may also be two. However, the total width W1 of the bottom surfaces of the protrusions 9 must be greater than the width W2 between the first lens 1 and the second lens 2 at the connecting portion 28.

[0100] Each protrusion 9 is not limited to a conical shape, and may be, for example, a truncated cone shape or a truncated pyramid shape. In other words, each protrusion 9 may have a trapezoidal shape in a cross section (cross-sectional shape) taken along the perpendicular direction C2 of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. In the lens unit 26 of the modified example, each protrusion 9 is shaped like a truncated cone or a truncated pyramid, so there is less risk of the tip of each protrusion 9 breaking than when each protrusion 9 is shaped like a cone, and deterioration of the tip of each protrusion 9 is reduced. Therefore, in the lens unit 26 of the modified example, deterioration of the light distribution section 29 can be reduced more than in the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0101] Furthermore, each protrusion 9 may be, for example, hemispherical. In other words, each protrusion 9 may have a semicircular shape in a cross section (cross-sectional shape) taken along the perpendicular direction C2 of the first lens 1 and the second lens 2. In the lens unit 26 of the modified example, each protrusion 9 is hemispherical, which reduces deterioration of the tip of each protrusion 9 compared to when each protrusion 9 is frustum-shaped or frustum-shaped. Therefore, in the lens unit 26 of the modified example, it is possible to further reduce deterioration of the light distribution section 29 compared to the light distribution section 29 of the lens unit 26 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0102] The fourth embodiment and the modifications described above are merely a part of the various embodiments and modifications of the present disclosure.

[0103] (Aspect) The present specification discloses the following aspects.

[0104] The lens unit (26) according to the first aspect includes a plurality of lenses (27) and a connecting portion (28). The plurality of lenses (27) includes at least a first lens (1) and a second lens (2). The connecting portion (28) connects the first lens (1) and the second lens (2). Each of the first lens (1) and the second lens (2) has an exit surface (1a; 2a), an entrance surface (1b; 2b), and a reflecting surface (1c; 2c). The entrance surface (1b; 2b) is located opposite the exit surface (1a; 2a) and is recessed toward the exit surface (1a; 2a). The reflecting surface (1c; 2c) connects the exit surface (1a; 2a) and the entrance surface (1b; 2b) and reflects a first light, which is a portion of the light incident on the entrance surface (1b; 2b), to the exit surface (1a; 2a). The first lens (1) and the second lens (2) are adjacent to each other and connected via a connecting portion (28). The connecting portion (28) has a light distribution portion (29). The light distribution portion (29) distributes the second light, which is a part of the light incident on the incident surface (1b; 2b) and is different from the first light, so that the second light is emitted forward from the exit surface (1a; 2a).

[0105] According to this embodiment, the light loss and the generation of stray light are reduced more than in the lens unit (80) of Comparative Example 1.

[0106] The lens unit (26) according to the second aspect is the same as that of the first aspect, except that the connecting portion (28) is an overlapping portion between the reflecting surface (1c) of the first lens (1) and the reflecting surface (2c) of the second lens (2). The light distribution portion (29) is configured to be recessed toward the exit surfaces (1a, 2a) of the first lens (1) and the second lens (2).

[0107] According to this embodiment, the light loss and the generation of stray light are reduced more than in the lens unit (80) of Comparative Example 1.

[0108] The lens unit (26) according to the third aspect is configured in the second aspect such that the light distribution section (29) has the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view along a direction (C2) perpendicular to the direction in which the first lens (1) and the second lens (2) are aligned.

[0109] According to this embodiment, the optical loss and the occurrence of stray light are reduced more than in the lens unit (80) of Comparative Example 1.

[0110] A lens unit (26) according to a fourth aspect is the lens unit (26) according to the second or third aspect, wherein the light distribution portion (29) includes a valley-shaped groove. An opening angle (θ1) of the groove of the light distribution portion (29) is smaller than an angle (θ2) formed between the reflecting surface (1c) of the first lens (1) and the reflecting surface (2c) of the second lens (2).

[0111] According to this embodiment, the optical loss and the occurrence of stray light are further reduced compared to the lens unit (80) of Comparative Example 1.

[0112] A lens unit (26) according to a fifth aspect is the first aspect, and the connecting portion (28) is a portion that connects the light exit surface (1 a) of the first lens (1) and the light exit surface (2 a) of the second lens (2). The light distribution portion (29) includes a convex protrusion.

[0113] According to this embodiment, the optical loss and the occurrence of stray light are reduced more than in the lens unit (90) of Comparative Example 2.

[0114] The lens unit (26) according to the sixth aspect is the fifth aspect, in which the light distribution section (29) is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view along a direction (C2) perpendicular to the direction in which the first lens (1) and the second lens (2) are aligned.

[0115] According to this embodiment, the optical loss and the occurrence of stray light are reduced more than in the lens unit (90) of Comparative Example 2.

[0116] The lens unit (26) according to the seventh aspect is the fifth or sixth aspect, in which the width (W1) of the bottom surface of the protrusion of the light distribution portion (29) is greater than the width (W2) between the first lens (1) and the second lens (2) at the connecting portion (28).

[0117] According to this embodiment, the optical loss and the occurrence of stray light are further reduced compared to the lens unit (90) of Comparative Example 2.

[0118] The lens unit (26) according to the eighth aspect is the fifth aspect, wherein the projection of the light distribution portion (29) has a shape that gradually narrows toward the tip.

[0119] According to this embodiment, the optical loss and the occurrence of stray light are further reduced compared to the lens unit (90) of Comparative Example 2.

[0120] A lens unit (26) according to a ninth aspect is the eighth aspect, wherein the projection of the light distribution portion (29) includes a mountain-shaped projection.

[0121] According to this embodiment, the optical loss and the occurrence of stray light are further reduced compared to the lens unit (90) of Comparative Example 2.

[0122] A lens unit (26) according to a tenth aspect is the ninth aspect, wherein the projection of the light distribution portion (29) is conical.

[0123] According to this embodiment, the optical loss and the occurrence of stray light are further reduced compared to the lens unit (90) of Comparative Example 2.

[0124] The lens unit (26) according to an eleventh aspect is the ninth aspect, wherein the projection of the light distribution portion (29) is frustum-shaped.

[0125] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce deterioration of the light distribution portion (29) compared to when the projection of the light distribution portion (29) is conical, for example.

[0126] A lens unit (26) according to a twelfth aspect is the ninth aspect, wherein the projection of the light distribution portion (29) is frustum-shaped.

[0127] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce deterioration of the light distribution portion (29) compared to when the projection of the light distribution portion (29) is conical, for example.

[0128] A lens unit (26) according to a thirteenth aspect is the ninth aspect, wherein the projection of the light distribution portion (29) is hemispherical.

[0129] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce deterioration of the light distribution portion (29) compared to when the projection of the light distribution portion (29) is in the shape of a truncated cone or a truncated pyramid, for example.

[0130] A lens unit (26) according to a fourteenth aspect is the ninth aspect, wherein the light distribution section (29) has a plurality of protrusions (9) including the above-mentioned protrusion. The height (H1) of each protrusion (9) is smaller than the thickness (H2) of the connecting section (28).

[0131] According to this aspect, it is possible to reduce deterioration of the light distribution portion (29) compared to when the projection of the light distribution portion (29) is in a truncated cone shape or a hemispherical shape, for example.

[0132] A lens unit (26) according to a fifteenth aspect is the first aspect, and the connecting portion (28) has a first connecting portion where the reflecting surface (1c) of the first lens (1) and the reflecting surface (2c) of the second lens (2) overlap, and a second connecting portion where the exit surface (1a) of the first lens (1) and the exit surface (2a) of the second lens (2) are connected. The light distribution portion (29) has a first light distribution portion recessed toward the exit surfaces (1a, 2a) of the first lens (1) and the second lens (2), and a second light distribution portion including a convex protrusion. The first connecting portion has the first light distribution portion. The second connecting portion has the second light distribution portion.

[0133] According to this aspect, light loss and generation of stray light are reduced compared to when the light distribution section (29) is only the first light distribution section or the second light distribution section, for example, as in the lens unit (26) of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2.

[0134] A lighting device (A1) according to a sixteenth aspect includes the lens unit (26) according to the first aspect, a plurality of light-emitting elements (21a), and a substrate (21b). The substrate (21b) supports the plurality of light-emitting elements (21a).

[0135] According to this aspect, light loss and the occurrence of stray light are reduced. [Explanation of symbols]

[0136] 1 First lens 1a 1st exit surface (output surface) 1b 1st entrance plane (incident plane) 1c 1st reflective surface (reflective surface) 2 Second lens 2a 2nd exit surface (output surface) 2b 2nd entrance plane (incident plane) 2c 2nd reflective surface (reflective surface) 9 protrusions 21a Light-emitting element 21b substrate 26 Lens unit 27 Lens 28 Connecting part 29 Light distribution section A1 Lighting fixture C2 Vertical direction (perpendicular direction) H1 Protrusion height H2 Thickness of connecting part W1 Width of the base of the projection of the light distribution part W2: Width between the first and second lenses θ1 Opening angle θ2 Angle

Claims

1. a plurality of lenses including at least a first lens and a second lens; a connecting portion that connects the first lens and the second lens, Each of the first lens and the second lens is an output surface; an incident surface provided at a position facing the exit surface and recessed toward the exit surface; a reflecting surface that connects the exit surface and the entrance surface and reflects a first light, which is a part of the light that has entered the entrance surface, to the exit surface; the first lens and the second lens are adjacent to each other and connected via the connecting portion, the connecting portion has a light distribution portion that distributes the second light such that the second light, which is a part of the light incident on the incident surface and is different from the first light, is emitted forward from the exit surface. Lens unit.

2. the connecting portion is a portion where the reflective surface of the first lens and the reflective surface of the second lens overlap with each other, The light distribution portion is configured to be recessed toward the light exit surface sides of the first lens and the second lens. The lens unit according to claim 1 .

3. The light distribution section is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first lens and the second lens are arranged. The lens unit according to claim 2 .

4. the light distribution portion includes a valley-shaped groove, an opening angle of the groove of the light distribution section is smaller than an angle formed between the reflecting surface of the first lens and the reflecting surface of the second lens; 4. The lens unit according to claim 2 or 3.

5. the connecting portion is a portion that connects the light exit surface of the first lens and the light exit surface of the second lens, The light distribution portion includes a convex protrusion. The lens unit according to claim 1 .

6. The light distribution section is configured to have the same cross-sectional shape in any cross-sectional view along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first lens and the second lens are arranged. The lens unit according to claim 5 .

7. a width of a bottom surface of the protrusion of the light distribution portion is larger than a width between the first lens and the second lens at the connecting portion; 7. The lens unit according to claim 5 or 6.

8. The protrusion of the light distribution portion has a shape in which the width gradually narrows toward the tip. The lens unit according to claim 5 .

9. The protrusion of the light distribution portion includes a mountain-shaped protrusion. The lens unit according to claim 8 .

10. The protrusion of the light distribution portion is conical. The lens unit according to claim 9.

11. The protrusion of the light distribution portion is frustum-shaped. The lens unit according to claim 9.

12. The protrusion of the light distribution portion is in the shape of a truncated pyramid. The lens unit according to claim 9.

13. The protrusion of the light distribution portion is hemispherical. The lens unit according to claim 9.

14. the light distribution section has a plurality of protrusions including the protrusion, The height of each of the protrusions is smaller than the thickness of the connecting portion. The lens unit according to claim 9.

15. The connecting portion is a first connection portion where the reflective surface of the first lens and the reflective surface of the second lens overlap; a second connecting portion connecting the exit surface of the first lens and the exit surface of the second lens, The light distribution unit is a first light distribution portion recessed toward the light exit surface side of the first lens and the second lens; a second light distribution section including a convex protrusion, the first connecting portion has the first light distribution portion, The second connection portion has the second light distribution portion. The lens unit according to claim 1 .

16. The lens unit according to claim 1; A plurality of light-emitting elements; a substrate on which the plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged, Lighting fixtures.

Images