Vehicular illuminating device, vehicular lighting fixture, and socket

Abstract

To provide a vehicular illuminating device, a vehicular lighting fixture, and a socket that can efficiently transfer heat generated in a light emitting module, to the socket, and can reduce the weight of the vehicular illuminating device.SOLUTION: A vehicular illuminating device according to an embodiment comprises: a socket; a board provided on the side of one end part of the socket; a light emitting element provided on the board on the side opposite to the side of the socket; a circuit element provided on the board on the side opposite to the side of the socket; and at least one heat transfer part extending inside the socket, and having a columnar shape. When viewed from a direction along a central axis of the vehicular illuminating device, the heat transfer part is provided in at least one position out of a position overlapping with the light emitting element, and a position overlapping with the circuit element.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD Embodiments of the present invention relate to a vehicle lighting device, a vehicle lamp, and a socket. [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 the case of a vehicle lighting device, the ambient temperature in which the vehicle lighting device is installed may reach approximately 85°C. 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. If the temperature of the light-emitting element exceeds the maximum junction temperature, the light-emitting element may malfunction or the luminous flux of the light emitted from the light-emitting element may decrease.

[0004] For this reason, a technology has been proposed in which a heat transfer section made of metal is provided between the light-emitting module (substrate) and the socket. The provision of a heat transfer section makes it easier to transfer heat generated in the light-emitting module to the socket, thereby improving the heat dissipation performance of the light-emitting module.

[0005] However, in recent years, there has been a demand for lighter vehicle lighting devices, and therefore, simply providing a heat transfer portion made of metal creates a new problem in that it becomes impossible to reduce the weight of the vehicle lighting device.

[0006] Therefore, there has been a demand for the development of a technology that can efficiently transfer heat generated in the light-emitting module to the socket and that can reduce the weight of the vehicle lighting device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-195099 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a vehicle lighting device, a vehicle lamp, and a socket that can efficiently transfer heat generated in the light-emitting module to the socket and can reduce the weight of the vehicle lighting device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A vehicle lighting device according to an embodiment includes a socket, a substrate provided on one end of the socket, a light-emitting element provided on the substrate opposite the socket side, a circuit element provided on the substrate opposite the socket side, and at least one columnar heat transfer portion extending inside the socket. When viewed from a direction along the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, the heat transfer portion is provided at least in a position overlapping the light-emitting element and a position overlapping the circuit element. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle lighting device, a vehicle lamp, and a socket that can efficiently transfer heat generated in the light-emitting module to the socket and can reduce the weight of the vehicle lighting device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic exploded 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] FIG. 10 is a schematic exploded view illustrating a vehicle lighting device according to another embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic exploded view illustrating a vehicle lighting device according to another embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view illustrating a vehicle lamp. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] 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.

[0013] (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.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic exploded 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. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a vehicle lighting device 1 includes, for example, a socket 10, a light-emitting module 20, a power supply unit 30, and a heat transfer unit 40.

[0015] The socket 10 includes, for example, a mounting portion 11, a bayonet 12, a flange 13, heat dissipation fins 14, and a connector holder 15. In this case, the central axis of the socket 10 may be the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, for example. 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] The flange 13 has a plate shape. 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.

[0018] The heat dissipation fin 14 is provided on the opposite side of the flange 13 from the mounting portion 11 side. At least one heat dissipation fin 14 can be provided. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the socket 10 can be provided with multiple heat dissipation fins 14. The multiple heat dissipation fins 14 can be arranged side by side in a predetermined direction. The heat dissipation fin 14 has, for example, a plate or cylindrical shape.

[0019] 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.

[0020] The socket 10 has the function of holding the light-emitting module 20 and the power supply unit 30, and the function of conducting heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 to the outside. Therefore, the socket 10 is preferably made of a material with high thermal conductivity.

[0021] Furthermore, in recent years, there has been a demand for a lighter socket 10 in order to reduce the weight of the vehicle lighting device 1. For this reason, the socket 10 can be formed, for example, from 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 using carbon, aluminum oxide, or the like. If the socket 10 contains a highly thermally conductive resin, it can efficiently dissipate heat generated in the light-emitting module 20. Furthermore, the weight of the socket 10 can be reduced.

[0022] The light emitting module 20 (substrate 21) is provided on one end side of the socket 10. The light emitting module 20 has, for example, the substrate 21, a light emitting element 22, a frame portion 23, a sealing portion 24, and a circuit element 25.

[0023] The substrate 21 is adhered to, for example, the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. The adhesive for adhering the substrate 21 is preferably an adhesive with high thermal conductivity. For example, the adhesive may be an adhesive mixed with a filler using a conductive material or an inorganic material.

[0024] 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 have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure.

[0025] Furthermore, a wiring pattern 21a is provided on the surface of the substrate 21 opposite to the socket 10. The wiring pattern 21a is formed from, for example, a material containing silver as a main component or a material containing copper as a main component. It is also possible to provide a covering portion that covers the wiring pattern 21a, a film-like resistor (described later), etc. The covering portion can include, for example, a glass material.

[0026] The light-emitting element 22 is provided on the opposite side of the substrate 21 from the socket 10 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 FIGS. 1 and 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] The frame portion 23 is provided on the side of the substrate 21 opposite to the socket 10 side. The frame portion 23 has a frame shape and surrounds the light-emitting element 22. The frame portion 23 can be adhered to the substrate 21 using an adhesive. The outline (outline of the planar shape) of the frame portion 23 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 circle.

[0030] The frame portion 23 has a function of a reflector that reflects light emitted from the light emitting element 22 and a function of defining the formation area of ​​the sealing portion 24. The frame portion 23 can be made of, for example, a thermoplastic resin.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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 on the side of the substrate 21 opposite to the socket 10 side. 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.

[0034] The circuit elements 25 illustrated in FIG. 1 are a protection element 25a, a resistor 25b, and a control element 25c. However, the type of circuit element 25 is not limited to the exemplified ones, and can be changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of the light-emitting circuit having the light-emitting element 22. For example, in addition to those mentioned above, the circuit element 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.

[0035] 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 may be, for example, a diode. The protective element 25a illustrated in FIG. 1 is a surface-mounted diode.

[0036] The resistor 25b 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 25b illustrated in FIG.

[0037] Since there is variation in the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 22, the resistor 25b is provided to keep the value of the current flowing through the light-emitting element 22 within a predetermined range. If the value of the current flowing through the light-emitting element 22 is within the predetermined range, the brightness (luminous flux, luminance, luminous intensity, illuminance) of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 22 can be kept within a predetermined range.

[0038] For example, the resistance value of resistor 25b connected in series to light-emitting element 22 is changed to keep the value of the current flowing through light-emitting element 22 within a predetermined range. If resistor 25b is a surface-mount resistor or a resistor with leads, resistor 25b having an appropriate resistance value is selected according to the forward voltage characteristics of light-emitting element 22. If resistor 25b is a film resistor, the resistance value can be increased by removing a portion of resistor 25b.

[0039] The control element 25c is provided, for example, to switch the voltage applied to the light-emitting element 22 or to perform temperature derating. However, the functions and uses of the control element 25c are not limited to those illustrated. The control element 25c can be, for example, a transistor or an integrated circuit. The control element 25c illustrated in FIG. 1 is a surface-mount integrated circuit.

[0040] 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.

[0041] When socket 10 is formed using, for example, 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.

[0042] The heat transfer portion 40 is provided inside the socket 10. The end of the heat transfer portion 40 on the substrate 21 side is exposed from the end of the socket 10 (the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a). The heat transfer portion 40 is columnar and extends inside the socket 10.

[0043] Here, when the vehicle lighting device 1 is turned on and a current flows through the light-emitting element 22, light is emitted from the light-emitting element 22 and heat is generated in the light-emitting element 22. In the case of the vehicle lighting device 1, the temperature of the atmosphere in which the vehicle lighting device 1 is installed may reach approximately 85°C. Therefore, when the vehicle lighting device 1 is turned on, the temperature of the light-emitting element 22 may become too high and exceed the maximum junction temperature. If the temperature of the light-emitting element 22 exceeds the maximum junction temperature, the light-emitting element 22 may break down or the luminous flux of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 22 may decrease.

[0044] In this case, if a heat transfer section 40 is provided between the light-emitting module 20 (substrate 21) and the socket 10, the heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be easily transferred to the socket 10.

[0045] For example, it is conceivable to arrange the entire area of ​​the substrate 21 so that it overlaps with the heat transfer portion when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1. However, doing so would increase the volume of the heat transfer portion, making it heavy. Meanwhile, in recent years, there has been a demand for reducing the weight of the vehicle lighting device 1. Therefore, if the heat transfer portion becomes heavy, it will be difficult to reduce the weight of the vehicle lighting device 1.

[0046] Here, the heat sources in the light emitting module 20 are the light emitting element 22 and the circuit element 25. The amount of heat generated by these elements differs. For example, the amount of heat generated by the light emitting element 22 is the largest.

[0047] Therefore, if the heat generated in the light emitting element 22 is easily transferred to the socket 10, the temperature of the light emitting element 22 can be prevented from exceeding the maximum junction temperature. For example, if the heat transfer portion 40 is provided at a position overlapping with the light-emitting element 22 when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, the heat generated in the light-emitting element 22 will be more easily transferred to the socket 10 via the heat transfer portion 40.

[0048] Furthermore, if the heat transfer portion 40 is provided at a position that overlaps with the frame portion 23 when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, the volume of the heat transfer portion 40 can be prevented from increasing, and ultimately, the weight of the heat transfer portion 40 can be further prevented from increasing.

[0049] For example, when viewed from the direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, the heat transfer section 40 can be provided inside the outer wall of the frame section 23. In this case, when viewed from the direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, the heat transfer section 40 can also be provided inside the inner wall of the frame section 23. For example, Fig. 2 shows a case where the inner wall of the frame section 23 and the outline of the heat transfer section 40 overlap when viewed from the direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1.

[0050] In this case, the contour shape of the heat transfer unit 40 when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1 can be the same as the contour shape of the frame unit 23, for example. As described above, the contour of the planar shape of the frame unit 23 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a circle. Therefore, the contour of the planar shape of the heat transfer unit 40 illustrated in FIG. 1 can also be a circle. In this way, the weight of the heat transfer unit 40 can be further reduced.

[0051] Furthermore, the heat transferred to the socket 10 is mainly released to the outside via the heat dissipation fins 14. Therefore, if the dimension of the heat transfer portion 40 in the direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1 is increased, the distance between the heat transfer portion 40 and the heat dissipation fins 14 can be shortened, making it easier to release the heat generated in the light emitting element 22 to the outside. Furthermore, the connector holder 15 can also function as a heat dissipation member, making it easier to release the heat generated in the light emitting element 22 to the outside via the connector holder 15.

[0052] For example, the end of heat transfer section 40 opposite to the substrate 21 side can be provided at a position between the surface of flange 13 facing mounting section 11 and the surface of flange 13 facing the heat dissipation fins 14. Note that Fig. 2 shows a case where the end of heat transfer section 40 opposite to the substrate 21 side is provided at the surface of flange 13 facing the heat dissipation fins 14.

[0053] When the heat transfer portion 40 overlaps with at least one of the heat dissipation fins 14 and the connector holder 15 when viewed from the direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, the end of the heat transfer portion 40 opposite to the substrate 21 side can be provided inside at least one of the heat dissipation fins 14 and the connector holder 15. In this way, heat dissipation from at least one of the heat dissipation fins 14 and the connector holder 15 becomes even easier.

[0054] As mentioned above, the circuit element 25 is also a heat source. If the heat generated in the circuit element 25 is transferred to the light emitting element 22 via the substrate 21, the temperature of the light emitting element 22 will increase. Therefore, it is preferable to make it easier for the heat generated in the circuit element 25 to be transferred to the socket 10.

[0055] In this case, the amount of heat generated varies depending on the type and application of the circuit element 25. For example, the amount of heat generated by an active element is often greater than the amount of heat generated by a passive element. Also, for example, the amount of heat generated by a current setting resistor or thermistor electrically connected to the control element is small.

[0056] For example, in the case of the circuit element 25 illustrated in Fig. 1, the amount of heat generated by the control element 25c is the largest. Therefore, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the heat transfer portion 41 can be provided at a position overlapping with the control element 25c when viewed from the direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1. The heat transfer portion 41 is provided inside the socket 10. The end of the heat transfer portion 41 on the substrate 21 side is exposed from the end of the socket 10 (the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a). The heat transfer portion 41 is columnar and extends inside the socket 10.

[0057] Furthermore, the contour shape of heat transfer portion 41 can be the same as the contour shape of control element 25c when viewed from a direction along central axis 1a of vehicle lighting device 1. For example, since the contour of the planar shape of control element 25c illustrated in Fig. 1 is quadrangular, the contour of the planar shape of heat transfer portion 41 can also be quadrangular. The position of the end of the heat transfer section 41 opposite to the substrate 21 side can be, for example, the same as the position of the end of the heat transfer section 40 described above opposite to the substrate 21 side.

[0058] Heat is also generated in the protective element 25a and the resistor 25b. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1, when viewed from the direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, the heat transfer portion 42 can be provided at a position overlapping the protective element 25a, and the heat transfer portion 43 can be provided at a position overlapping the resistor 25b. The heat transfer portion 42 and the heat transfer portion 43 are provided inside the socket 10. The ends of the heat transfer portion 42 and the heat transfer portion 43 on the substrate 21 side are exposed from the end of the socket 10 (the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a). The heat transfer portion 42 and the heat transfer portion 43 are columnar and extend inside the socket 10.

[0059] Furthermore, when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1, the contour shape of the heat transfer portion 42 can be the same as the contour shape of the protection element 25a. The contour shape of the heat transfer portion 43 can be the same as the contour shape of the resistor 25b. In this way, the weight of the heat transfer portion 42 and the heat transfer portion 43 can be reduced.

[0060] The positions of the ends of the heat transfer sections 42 and 43 opposite to the substrate 21 side can be, for example, the same as the position of the end of the heat transfer section 40 described above opposite to the substrate 21 side.

[0061] By providing heat transfer sections 41, 42, and 43, the heat generated in the control element 25c, the protection element 25a, and the resistor 25b can be more easily transferred to the socket 10, thereby preventing the temperature of the light-emitting element 22 from rising due to this heat. That is, the heat generated in the light-emitting module 20 can be efficiently transferred to the socket 10, and the vehicle lighting device 1 can be made lighter in weight.

[0062] However, the more heat transfer parts provided, the heavier the vehicle lighting device 1 becomes. Therefore, the heat transfer parts for transferring the heat generated in the circuit element 25 to the socket 10 can be appropriately selected depending on the effect on the temperature of the light-emitting element 22. For example, the heat transfer parts to be provided can be appropriately selected depending on the amount of heat generated by the element, the distance between the element and the light-emitting element 22, etc.

[0063] For example, in the vehicle lighting device 1 illustrated in Fig. 1, a heat transfer section 40 can be provided in consideration of heat dissipation and weight reduction. Also, in consideration of improving heat dissipation, a heat transfer section 40 and a heat transfer section 41 can be provided. Also, a heat transfer section 42 and a heat transfer section 43 can be provided as needed.

[0064] The heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 can be attached to the inside of holes provided in the socket 10 by, for example, adhering them to the inside of the holes or by attaching them to the inside of the holes via heat conductive grease (heat dissipation grease).The heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 can also be embedded in the socket 10 by insert molding.

[0065] Furthermore, the end portions of the heat transfer members 40, 41 to 43 on the substrate 21 side can be bonded to the substrate 21. The adhesive can be, for example, the same adhesive that bonds the substrate 21 to the bottom surface 11a1 of the recess 11a. For example, the substrate 21 and the heat transfer members 40, 41 to 43 can be bonded together.

[0066] The heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 are made of a material with high thermal conductivity. For example, the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 can be made of a metal such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, copper, or a copper alloy. In this case, if the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, the weight of the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43, and therefore the weight of the vehicle lighting device 1, can be reduced.

[0067] Furthermore, the reflectance of the ends of the heat transfer parts 40, 41 to 43 on the substrate 21 side with respect to light irradiated from the light emitting element 22 can be made higher than that of the socket 10. For example, aluminum or an aluminum alloy has a high reflectance (e.g., 80% or more) with respect to light irradiated from the light emitting element 22. Therefore, if the heat transfer parts 40, 41 to 43 are formed from aluminum or an aluminum alloy, the reflectance of the ends of the heat transfer parts 40, 41 to 43 can be made high.

[0068] Here, light emitted from the light-emitting element 22 may be reflected by the interface between the sealing portion 24 and the outside air, and may be incident on the substrate 21. A portion of the light incident on the substrate 21 may be transmitted through the substrate 21 and incident on the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43. Therefore, if the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 contain aluminum or an aluminum alloy, the incident light can be reflected toward the front side of the vehicle lighting device 1. As a result, the utilization efficiency of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 22 can be improved.

[0069] Although the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 are formed using a material with high reflectivity for light emitted from the light emitting element 22, the color of the ends of the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 on the substrate 21 side may be white. For example, a white film may be provided on the ends of the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 on the substrate 21 side. The white film may be formed, for example, by applying a white paint or the like to the ends of the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43.

[0070] Furthermore, the light emitted from the light emitting element 22 is most likely to be incident on the heat transfer portion 40. Therefore, at least the heat transfer portion 40 may be made of a material that has a high reflectivity for the light emitted from the light emitting element 22, or at least the end of the heat transfer portion 40 on the substrate 21 side may be colored white.

[0071] 3 is a schematic exploded view illustrating a vehicle lighting device 1b according to another embodiment. For example, depending on the application of the vehicle lighting device 1b, the number of light-emitting elements 22 may be small, or the heat generated by the light-emitting elements 22 may be small. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 3, the heat transfer section 40 provided at a position overlapping the light-emitting elements 22 when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1ba of the vehicle lighting device 1b can be omitted. In this way, the vehicle lighting device 1b can be made lighter in weight.

[0072] FIG. 4 is a schematic exploded view illustrating a vehicle lighting device 1c according to another embodiment. As described above, the amount of heat generated varies depending on the type and application of the circuit element 25. For example, the protective element 25a and the resistor 25b generate less heat than the control element 25c. In such a case, as shown in Figure 4, when viewed from a direction along the central axis 1ca of the vehicle lighting device 1c, the heat transfer section 42 provided at a position overlapping with the protective element 25a and the heat transfer section 43 provided at a position overlapping with the resistor 25b can be omitted. In this way, the vehicle lighting device 1b can be made lighter in weight.

[0073] As described above, when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, the heat transfer portion may be provided at least in one of a position overlapping the light-emitting element 22 and a position overlapping the circuit element 25.

[0074] 2, socket 10 is provided with at least one hole extending through the interior of socket 10. The hole is opened at the end of socket 10 on the side where substrate 21 is provided, at least one of a position overlapping light-emitting element 21 and a position overlapping circuit element 25 when viewed from the direction along the central axis of socket 10. As described above, the heat transfer portions 40, 41 to 43 can be attached to the holes by bonding or by using heat conductive grease (heat dissipation grease).

[0075] (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-mentioned description of the vehicle lighting device 1 and modified versions of the vehicle lighting device 1 (for example, versions in which a person skilled in the art appropriately adds, deletes, or modifies components, and which still have the features of the present invention) can all be applied to the vehicle lamp 100.

[0076] In the following, as an example, a case where the vehicular lamp 100 is a rear combination light installed in an automobile will be described. However, the vehicular lamp 100 is not limited to a rear 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.

[0077] FIG. 5 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view illustrating the vehicle lamp 100. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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. 5 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.

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

[0083] When the vehicle lighting device 1 is attached to the vehicle lamp 100, the seal member 104 is sandwiched between the flange 13 and the housing 101. Therefore, the 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.

[0084] 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 or the like provided outside the vehicle lamp 100 is electrically connected to the connector 105. Therefore, by fitting the connector 105 to the ends of the plurality of power supply terminals 31, the lighting circuit or the like can be electrically connected to the light-emitting element 22.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] The following are additional notes regarding the above-described embodiment.

[0088] (Appendix 1) Socket and; a substrate provided on one end side of the socket; a light emitting element provided on the substrate opposite to the socket side; a circuit element provided on the substrate on the side opposite to the socket side; At least one heat transfer portion extending inside the socket and having a columnar shape; Equipped with A vehicle lighting device, wherein when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, the heat transfer portion is provided at least in a position overlapping the light-emitting element and a position overlapping the circuit element.

[0089] (Appendix 2) a frame portion provided on the substrate opposite to the socket side, the frame portion having a frame shape, and surrounding the light emitting element; 2. A vehicle lighting device as described in claim 1, wherein, when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, the contour shape of the heat transfer portion provided at a position overlapping the light-emitting element is the same as the contour shape of the frame portion.

[0090] (Appendix 3) 3. A vehicle lighting device as described in Appendix 2, wherein the heat transfer portion, which is provided at a position overlapping with the light-emitting element when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, is provided inside the outer wall of the frame portion.

[0091] (Appendix 4) 4. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the reflectance of the light emitted from the light emitting element is higher at the end of the heat transfer portion on the substrate side than at the socket.

[0092] (Appendix 5) 4. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the end of the heat transfer portion on the substrate side is white in color.

[0093] (Appendix 6) A vehicle lighting device according to any one of appendices 1 to 5; a housing in which the vehicle lighting device is mounted; A vehicle lighting fixture equipped with:

[0094] (Appendix 7) A socket in which a substrate on which a light emitting element and a circuit element are provided is provided, the socket is provided with at least one hole extending through the socket; The socket has a hole at the end on which the substrate is provided, at least at a position overlapping the light-emitting element and a position overlapping the circuit element when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the socket. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 vehicle lighting device, 1a central axis, 10 socket, 11 mounting portion, 20 light emitting module, 21 substrate, 22 light emitting element, 23 frame portion, 25 circuit element, 25a protective element, 25b resistor, 25c control element, 40 heat transfer portion, 41 heat transfer portion, 42 heat transfer portion, 43 heat transfer portion, 100 vehicle lamp, 101 housing

Claims

1. Socket and; a substrate provided on one end side of the socket; a light emitting element provided on the substrate on the side opposite to the socket side; a circuit element provided on the substrate on the side opposite to the socket side; At least one heat transfer portion extending inside the socket and having a columnar shape; Equipped with A vehicle lighting device, wherein when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, the heat transfer portion is provided at a position overlapping with the light-emitting element and / or a position overlapping with the circuit element.

2. a frame portion provided on the substrate opposite to the socket side, the frame portion having a frame shape, and surrounding the light emitting element; 2. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, the shape of the outline of the heat transfer portion provided at a position overlapping the light-emitting element is the same as the shape of the outline of the frame portion.

3. 3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the heat transfer portion, which is provided at a position overlapping the light-emitting element when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, is provided inside the outer wall of the frame portion.

4. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the reflectivity of the light emitted from the light-emitting element is higher at the end of the heat transfer portion on the substrate side than at the socket.

5. 4. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the end of the heat transfer portion on the substrate side is white in color.

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

7. A socket in which a substrate on which a light emitting element and a circuit element are provided is provided, the socket is provided with at least one hole extending through the socket; The socket has a hole at the end on which the substrate is provided, at least at a position overlapping the light-emitting element and a position overlapping the circuit element when viewed from a direction along the central axis of the socket.

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