Vehicular lighting fixture

Abstract

To reduce harmful light which transmits a lens boundary without causing increase in component cost and deterioration in assembly work.SOLUTION: A vehicular lighting fixture 1 includes: a first light emitting body 411; a second light emitting body 412 and a third light emitting body 413; a projection lens 10 in which a first diffusion lens part 11 for projecting the light emitted by the first light emitting body 411 and a second diffusion lens part 12 for projecting the light emitted by the second light emitting body 412 and the third light emitting body 413 are formed integrally; and a first light shielding member 311 arranged in such a manner that part is opposed to the boundary between the first diffusion lens part 11 and the second diffusion lens part 12, for shielding the light which is emitted by the first light emitting body 411 and travels to the second diffusion lens part 12 side and the light which is emitted by the second light emitting body 412 and the third light emitting body 413 and travels to the first diffusion lens part 11 side. The projection lens 10 includes a first recessed part 101 formed at the boundary between the first diffusion lens part 11 and the second diffusion lens part 12, for diffusing the transmitting light.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle lamp. [Background technology]

[0002] A known vehicle lamp includes a plurality of light sources, a plurality of reflectors, and a plurality of lens sections formed in line on a projection lens, and a plurality of illumination units each composed of a light source, a reflector section, and a lens section are arranged side by side (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). In the vehicle lamps described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, a wall-like or columnar light-blocking member is provided between adjacent illumination units to block light from reaching other illumination units. The tip of this light-blocking member is provided opposite the boundary between adjacent lens sections (hereinafter referred to as the lens boundary). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-18691 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-21977 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the vehicle lamp described in Patent Document 1, the tip of the light blocking member is separated from the lens boundary, so light from the illumination unit passes through the lens boundary, which causes glare and light streaks to occur as the light passing through the lens boundary converges.

[0005] In the vehicle lamp described in Patent Document 2, the tip of the light-blocking member and the lens boundary are close to each other, preventing light from the illumination unit from passing through the lens boundary. However, since high-precision positioning of the tip of the light-blocking member and the lens boundary is required, the light-blocking member must be made a separate member from the reflector and then the positioning work between the light-blocking member and the lens boundary must be performed. This increases the cost of parts and reduces the workability of assembling the projection lens and the reflector.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle lamp that reduces harmful light that passes through lens boundaries without increasing component costs or reducing assembly workability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The vehicle lamp of the present invention comprises a projection lens integrally formed with a first light emitter, a second light emitter, a first lens portion that projects light emitted by the first light emitter, and a second lens portion that projects light emitted by the second light emitter, and a light-blocking member, a portion of which is arranged facing the boundary between the first lens portion and the second lens portion, that blocks light emitted by the first light emitter and traveling toward the second lens portion and light emitted by the second light emitter and traveling toward the first lens portion, and the projection lens comprises a light diffusion control portion formed at the boundary between the first lens portion and the second lens portion and that diffuses the light that passes through. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, harmful light passing through lens boundaries can be reduced without increasing component costs or reducing assembly workability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a vehicle lamp according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the vehicle lamp of FIG. [Figure 3]FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional plan view showing the projection lens and reflector of FIGS. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the reflector of FIGS. 1 to 3 as viewed from below and in front of the vehicle. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a rear view showing the projection lens of FIGS. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the projection lens of FIG. 5 as viewed obliquely from the rear left side of the vehicle. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional bottom view showing the projection lens and reflector of FIGS. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional plan view showing a projection lens and a reflector of a vehicle lamp of a comparative example. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a low beam light distribution pattern projected onto a virtual screen in front of a vehicle by a vehicle lamp of a comparative example. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a low beam light distribution pattern projected onto a virtual screen in front of the vehicle by the vehicle lamp shown in FIG. 1 etc. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional plan view showing a projection lens and a reflector of a vehicle lamp according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional plan view showing a projection lens and a reflector of a vehicle lamp according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention will be described below in accordance with preferred embodiments. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown below and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, in the embodiments shown below, some components are omitted from illustration and description, but for the details of the omitted technologies, publicly known or well-known technologies are applied as appropriate within the scope of the content described below.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a vehicle lamp 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle lamp 1 shown in this figure is a low beam headlamp that projects a low beam light distribution pattern ahead of the vehicle. The vehicle lamp 1 is housed in a headlight housing (not shown) together with a high beam headlamp (not shown). Note that while a low beam headlamp will be described as one embodiment of the present invention, other vehicle lamps such as a high beam headlamp may also be used as one embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1 , the vehicle lamp 1 includes a projection lens 10, a heat sink 20, and a reflector 30. The projection lens 10 is a molded resin product in which a condensing lens portion 14, a first diffusing lens portion 11, a second diffusing lens portion 12, and a third diffusing lens portion 13 are integrally formed. The condensing lens portion 14, the first diffusing lens portion 11, the second diffusing lens portion 12, and the third diffusing lens portion 13 are provided in this order from the inside in the vehicle width direction. The projection lens 10 is attached to the heat sink 20 and the reflector 30.

[0013] The heat sink 20 is a pressed aluminum product, to which the projection lens 10, reflector 30, and light source unit 40 (see FIG. 2, etc.) are attached. The heat sink 20 includes bracket units 22, 23 and a heat sink 24. The bracket units 22, 23 are used to attach the vehicle lamp 1 to a headlight housing. The heat sink 24 functions as a heat sink that dissipates heat generated by the light source unit 40. The bracket units 22, 23 also function as a heat sink that dissipates heat generated by the light source unit 40.

[0014] The reflector 30 is a molded resin product in which a first reflector portion 31, a second reflector portion 32, a third reflector portion 33, a fourth reflector portion 34, and a fifth reflector portion 35 are integrally formed. The first reflector portion 31, together with a first light emitter 411 and a first diffusing lens portion 11 (described later), constitutes a first irradiation unit U1. The second reflector portion 32 and the third reflector portion 33, together with a second light emitter 412 and a third light emitter 413 and a second diffusing lens portion 12 (described later), constitute a second irradiation unit U2. The fourth reflector portion 34, together with a fourth light emitter 414 and a third diffusing lens portion 13 (described later), constitutes a third irradiation unit U3. The fifth reflector portion 35, together with a fifth light emitter 415 and a condensing lens portion 14 (described later), constitutes a fourth irradiation unit U4.

[0015] The first reflector portion 31, the second reflector portion 32, the third reflector portion 33, and the fifth reflector portion 35 are arranged in the following order from the inside in the vehicle width direction: fifth reflector portion 35, first reflector portion 31, second reflector portion 32, and third reflector portion 33. The second reflector portion 32 and the third reflector portion 33 are arranged symmetrically on the left and right. The fourth reflector portion 34 is arranged in front of the second reflector portion 32 and the third reflector portion 33.

[0016] A pair of positioning protrusions 15, 16 are provided on the upper part of the projection lens 10. In contrast, a pair of positioning holes 36, 37 are provided on the upper part of the reflector 30. When viewed from the top-bottom direction, hole 36 is provided between the condensing lens part 14 and the fifth reflector part 35, and hole 37 is provided between the second diffusing lens part 12 and the second reflector part 32. Protrusion 15 is a protrusion that fits into hole 36 and is provided on a plate piece that protrudes from the upper part of the condensing lens part 14 towards the rear of the vehicle. Protrusion 16 is a protrusion that fits into hole 37 and is provided on a plate piece that protrudes from the upper part of the second diffusing lens part 12 towards the rear of the vehicle.

[0017] Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the vehicular lamp 1 of Fig. 1. As shown in this figure, the heat sink 20 has a base portion 21. The base portion 21 has a first base portion 21A which is a plate-shaped portion on the vehicle rear side of the base portion 21, and a second base portion 21B which is a plate-shaped portion on the vehicle front side of the base portion 21. A step portion is formed at the boundary between the first base portion 21A and the second base portion 21B.

[0018] The projection lens 10, the reflector 30, and the light source unit 40 are attached to the first base portion 21A. The light source unit 40 is attached to the upper surface of the first base portion 21A via heat dissipation grease 50, and the reflector 30 is attached to the upper surface of the first base portion 21A with the flange portion 10B (see FIG. 5, etc.) of the projection lens 10 sandwiched therebetween.

[0019] The second base portion 21B is fitted with the projection lens 10 and the reflector 30. The reflector 30 is fitted to the upper surface of the second base portion 21B with the flange portion 10A of the projection lens 10 sandwiched between them.

[0020] Bracket portion 22 is provided at the end of first base portion 21A on the right side of the vehicle, and bracket portion 23 is provided at the end of first base portion 21A on the left side of the vehicle. In addition, heat sink 24 is provided at the end of first base portion 21A on the rear side of the vehicle.

[0021] The light source unit 40 includes a first light emitter 411, a second light emitter 412, a third light emitter 413, a fourth light emitter 414, and a fifth light emitter 415, and a metal substrate 42. The first light emitter 411, the second light emitter 412, the third light emitter 413, the fourth light emitter 414, and the fifth light emitter 415 are mounted on the substrate 42. The first light emitter 411, the second light emitter 412, the third light emitter 413, the fourth light emitter 414, and the fifth light emitter 415 are light emitting diodes (LEDs) or the like, and emit light toward the upper part of the vehicle. The substrate 42 is attached to the upper surface of the first base unit 21A.

[0022] In the reflector 30, the first reflector portion 31 has a reflective surface provided to cover the first light emitter 411, and the reflective surface reflects light emitted from the first light emitter 411 toward the front of the vehicle. The second reflector portion 32 has a reflective surface provided to cover the second light emitter 412, and the reflective surface reflects light emitted from the second light emitter 412 toward the front of the vehicle. The third reflector portion 33 has a reflective surface provided to cover the third light emitter 413, and the reflective surface reflects light emitted from the third light emitter 413 toward the front of the vehicle. The fourth reflector portion 34 has a reflective surface provided to cover the fourth light emitter 414, and the reflective surface reflects light emitted from the fourth light emitter 414 toward the front of the vehicle. Furthermore, the fifth reflector portion 35 has a reflective surface provided so as to cover the fifth light emitter 415, and the reflective surface reflects the light emitted by the fifth light emitter 415 towards the front of the vehicle.

[0023] The reflective surfaces of the first reflector portion 31, the second reflector portion 32, the third reflector portion 33, the fourth reflector portion 34, and the fifth reflector portion 35 are formed by aluminum deposition, high-reflection coating, etc. The reflective surfaces are formed in a three-dimensional free-form curved shape based on an ellipse or a combination of an ellipse and a parabola.

[0024] The reflector 30 includes a first light-shielding member 311, a second light-shielding member 312, and a third light-shielding member 313. The first light-shielding member 311 is a wall-like member that separates the space in front of the first reflector section 31 and the second reflector section 32 into left and right, and blocks light traveling from the first irradiation unit U1 side to the second irradiation unit U2 side, and light traveling from the second irradiation unit U2 side to the first irradiation unit U1 side. The second light-shielding member 312 is a column-like member that separates the space behind the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13, and blocks light traveling from the second irradiation unit U2 side to the third irradiation unit U3 side, and light traveling from the third irradiation unit U3 side to the second irradiation unit U2 side. The third light-shielding member 313 is a wall-like member that separates the space in front of the first reflector part 31 and the fifth reflector part 35 into left and right, and blocks light traveling from the first irradiation unit U1 side to the fourth irradiation unit U4 side, and light traveling from the fourth irradiation unit U4 side to the first irradiation unit U1 side (see also Figures 3 and 4, etc.).

[0025] The projection lens 10 is disposed on the vehicle front side of the reflector 30 and is attached to the heat sink 20 while being sandwiched between the reflector 30 and the heat sink 20. In the projection lens 10, the condensing lens unit 14 is disposed on the vehicle front side of the fifth reflector unit 35 and projects light reflected by the reflective surface of the fifth reflector unit 35 toward the vehicle front. The first diffusing lens unit 11 is disposed on the vehicle front side of the first reflector unit 31 and projects light reflected by the reflective surface of the first reflector unit 31 toward the vehicle front. The second diffusing lens unit 12 is disposed on the vehicle front side of the second reflector unit 32 and the third reflector unit 33 and projects light reflected by the reflective surfaces of the second reflector unit 32 and the third reflector unit 33 toward the vehicle front. The third diffusing lens portion 13 is disposed on the front right side of the vehicle from the fourth reflector portion 34, and projects the light reflected by the reflective surface of the fourth reflector portion 34 to the front right side of the vehicle.

[0026] A pair of positioning holes H1 (one of which is not shown) are formed in the heat sink 20, and a pair of positioning pins P1 (one of which is not shown) are formed in the reflector 30, and the positioning holes H1 and the positioning pins P1 are fitted together. This positions the reflector 30 relative to the first base portion 21A of the heat sink 20.

[0027] A positioning hole H2 is formed in the flange portion 10A of the projection lens 10, and a positioning pin P2 is formed in the reflector 30, with the positioning hole H2 fitting into the positioning pin P2. In addition, the protrusion 15 fits into the hole 36, and the protrusion 16 fits into the hole 37. This positions the reflector 30 relative to the projection lens 10.

[0028] Furthermore, a pair of positioning holes H3 are formed in the first base portion 21A, and a pair of positioning pins (not shown) are formed on the back surface of the substrate 42, and the positioning holes H3 are fitted into the positioning pins, thereby positioning the substrate 42 with respect to the first base portion 21A.

[0029] Thermal grease 50 is interposed between the back surface of the substrate 42 and the upper surface of the first base portion 21A. The thermal grease 50 is provided directly below the first light emitter 411, directly below the second light emitter 412 and the third light emitter 413, directly below the fourth light emitter 414, and directly below the fifth light emitter 415.

[0030] 3 is a partial cross-sectional plan view showing the projection lens 10 and reflector 30 of FIGS. 1 and 2. This figure shows a horizontal cross section of the condenser lens portion 14, the first diffusing lens portion 11, the second diffusing lens portion 12, and the third diffusing lens portion 13 of the projection lens 10, as well as the top surface of the reflector 30.

[0031] As shown in this figure, in the projection lens 10, the exit surfaces of the condenser lens portion 14, the first diffusing lens portion 11, and the second diffusing lens portion 12 are formed as continuous curved surfaces that extend in the vehicle width direction. In contrast, the exit surface of the third diffusing lens portion 13 extends diagonally rearward and to the right of the vehicle from the boundary with the exit surface of the second diffusing lens portion 12. As a result, the projection lens 10 as a whole has a slanted shape that extends rearward as it moves from the inside to the outside in the vehicle width direction.

[0032] The incident surface of the condensing lens unit 14 is a convex surface that bulges toward the fifth reflector unit 35, and the condensing lens unit 14 is a condensing lens (convex lens). The incident surface of the first diffusing lens unit 11 is a concave surface that recesses toward the exit surface, and the first diffusing lens unit 11 is a diffusing lens (concave lens). The incident surface of the second diffusing lens unit 12 is a concave surface that recesses toward the exit surface, and the second diffusing lens unit 12 is a diffusing lens (concave lens). The incident surface of the third diffusing lens unit 13 is a concave surface that recesses toward the exit surface, and the third diffusing lens unit 13 is a diffusing lens (concave lens).

[0033] A step portion 10S is formed at the boundary between the convex condensing lens portion 14 and the concave first diffusing lens portion 11. This step portion 10S faces the front end of the first light blocking member 311 with a gap therebetween (see FIG. 7).

[0034] The area of ​​condensing lens unit 14 having a light distribution control function (hereinafter referred to as the light distribution control area) extends up to step portion 10S, and the light distribution control area of ​​first diffusing lens unit 11 also extends up to step portion 10S. Therefore, light that travels from fifth reflector unit 35 forward of third light blocking member 313 passes through the light distribution control area of ​​condensing lens unit 14 or first diffusing lens unit 11. Furthermore, light that is reflected by the exit surface of condensing lens unit 14 and then reflected by the front end of third light blocking member 313 passes through the light distribution control area of ​​condensing lens unit 14 or first diffusing lens unit 11. Furthermore, light that travels from first reflector unit 35 forward of third light blocking member 313 passes through the light distribution control area of ​​first diffusing lens unit 11 or condensing lens unit 14. Furthermore, light reflected by the exit surface of first diffusing lens unit 11 and then reflected at the front end of third light blocking member 313 passes through the light distribution control area of ​​first diffusing lens unit 11 or condensing lens unit 14. Therefore, light that travels forward of third light blocking member 313 or is reflected at the front end of third light blocking member 313 is unlikely to become harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, etc.

[0035] A first recess 101 is formed at the boundary between the first diffusing lens portion 11 and the second diffusing lens portion 12, both of which are concave lenses. The first recess 101 is a groove portion provided on the incident surface of the projection lens 10 and having a curved surface recessed toward the exit surface side of the projection lens 10, and extends from the lower end to the upper end of the projection lens 10. The first recess 101 faces the front end of the first light blocking member 311 with a gap between them (see FIG. 7).

[0036] The light distribution control region of first diffusing lens portion 11 is formed between step portion 10S and first recess 101. The light distribution control region of second diffusing lens portion 12 is formed between first recess 101 and second recess 102, which will be described later.

[0037] Light traveling from the first reflector portion 31 to the front of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first recess 101. Light traveling from the second reflector portion 32 and the third reflector portion 33 to the front of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first recess 101. Light reflected by the exit surface of the first diffusing lens portion 11 and then reflected at the front end of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first recess 101. Light reflected by the exit surface of the second diffusing lens portion 12 and then reflected at the front end of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first recess 101. Here, the first recess 101 has a light diffusion control function, and therefore light traveling to the front of the first light blocking member 311 or reflected at the front end of the first light blocking member 311 is prevented from becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like.

[0038] A second recess 102 is formed at the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13, both of which are concave lenses. The second recess 102 is a groove portion provided on the incident surface of the projection lens 10 and having a curved surface recessed toward the exit surface side of the projection lens 10, and extends from the lower end to the upper end of the projection lens 10. The second recess 102 faces the front end of the second light blocking member 312 with a gap therebetween (see FIG. 7).

[0039] The light distribution control region of second diffusion lens portion 12 is formed between first recess 101 and second recess 102. Furthermore, the light distribution control region of third diffusion lens portion 13 is formed to extend from second recess 102 to the rear right of the vehicle. To accommodate manufacturing tolerances of first light blocking member 311, second light blocking member 312, and third light blocking member 313, the lower ends of first light blocking member 311, second light blocking member 312, and third light blocking member 313 face base portion 21 of heat sink 20 via gaps. In contrast, first recess 101 is positioned below the lower end of first light blocking member 311 and includes a portion facing the gap between the lower end of first light blocking member 311 and base portion 21 of heat sink 20. The second recess 102 is located below the lower end of the second light blocking member 312 and includes a portion facing the gap between the lower end of the second light blocking member 312 and the base portion 21 of the heat sink 20.

[0040] Light traveling forward of the second light blocking member 312 from the second reflector portion 32 and the third reflector portion 33 passes through the second recess 102. Light traveling forward of the second light blocking member 312 from the fourth reflector portion 34 passes through the second recess 102. Light reflected by the exit surface of the second diffusion lens portion 12 and then reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the second recess 102. Light reflected by the exit surface of the third diffusion lens portion 13 and then reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the second recess 102. Here, the second recess 102 has a light diffusion control function, which prevents light traveling forward of the second light blocking member 312 or reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 from becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like.

[0041] 1 to 3 is a perspective view showing the reflector 30 as viewed from below and in front of the vehicle. As shown in this figure, in the reflector 30, a first light-shielding member 311, a second light-shielding member 312, and a third light-shielding member 313 extend from the lower surface of the reflector 30 toward the below side of the vehicle. The first light-shielding member 311 and the third light-shielding member 313 extend in the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle.

[0042] Here, the side surfaces of the first light blocking member 311, the second light blocking member 312, and the third light blocking member 313 are inclined as draft gradients. Therefore, the widths (front surface width dimensions) of the first light blocking member 311, the second light blocking member 312, and the third light blocking member 313 gradually decrease from the upper side of the vehicle to the lower side of the vehicle. In other words, the front surfaces of the first light blocking member 311, the second light blocking member 312, and the third light blocking member 313 have a tapered shape that is wider on the upper side of the vehicle and narrower on the lower side of the vehicle.

[0043] 1 and 2. As shown in this figure, the boundary between the first diffusing lens portion 11 and the second diffusing lens portion 12 on the incident surface of the projection lens 10 extends along the vertical direction of the vehicle. The first recess 101 is formed from the upper end to the lower end of the boundary between the first diffusing lens portion 11 and the second diffusing lens portion 12 on the incident surface of the projection lens 10, and diffuses light passing through the boundary.

[0044] The first recess 101 is a vertically long groove, and the left side of the first recess 101 is curved to bulge to the left, and the right side of the first recess 101 is curved to bulge to the right. That is, the first recess 101 has both left and right sides that are arc-shaped, and is formed in a shape that gradually widens in width from the upper and lower ends toward the center in the vehicle's vertical direction. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the first recess 101 coincides with the vehicle's vertical direction.

[0045] In contrast, the front end of first light blocking member 311 facing first recess 101 has a tapered shape whose width decreases from the top end to the bottom end. Here, the narrower the width of the front end of first light blocking member 311, the more light passes through the boundary between first diffusing lens section 11 and second diffusing lens section 12. Therefore, the amount of light passing through the boundary between first diffusing lens section 11 and second diffusing lens section 12 increases from the top end to the bottom end of the boundary.

[0046] That is, at the boundary between first diffusing lens section 11 and second diffusing lens section 12, the amount of light passing through the boundary increases from the top end toward the center in the vertical direction of the vehicle, while the width of first recess 101, which diffuses the light, increases from the top end toward the center in the vertical direction of the vehicle. As a result, the amount of light passing through the boundary between first diffusing lens section 11 and second diffusing lens section 12 increases from the top end toward the center in the vertical direction of the vehicle, while the light diffusibility increases. Therefore, even if the front end of first light-shielding member 311 is tapered, first recess 101 can effectively diffuse light passing through the boundary between first diffusing lens section 11 and second diffusing lens section 12.

[0047] The first recess 101 faces the front end of the first light-shielding member 311 and is a concave lens recessed toward the exit surface of the projection lens 10, which also has the effect of reducing the visibility of the first light-shielding member 311 when viewed through the projection lens 10.

[0048] Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing the projection lens 10 of Fig. 5 as viewed obliquely from the rear left side of the vehicle. As shown in this figure, the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13 on the incident surface of the projection lens 10 extends in the vertical direction of the vehicle. The second recess 102 is formed from the upper end to the lower end of the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13 on the incident surface of the projection lens 10, and diffuses light passing through the boundary.

[0049] The second recess 102 is a vertically long groove, and the left side of the second recess 102 is curved to bulge to the left, and the right side of the second recess 102 is curved to bulge to the right. That is, the second recess 102 has both left and right sides that are arc-shaped, and is formed in a shape that gradually widens in width from the upper and lower ends toward the center in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the second recess 102 coincides with the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0050] In contrast, the front end of second light blocking member 312 facing second recess 102 has a tapered shape whose width decreases from the top end to the bottom end. Here, the narrower the width of the front end of second light blocking member 312, the more light passes through the boundary between second diffusing lens section 12 and third diffusing lens section 13. Therefore, the amount of light passing through the boundary between second diffusing lens section 12 and third diffusing lens section 13 increases from the top end to the bottom end of the boundary.

[0051] That is, at the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13, the amount of light passing through the boundary increases from the upper end toward the center in the vertical direction of the vehicle, while the width of the second recess 102 that diffuses the light increases from the upper end toward the center in the vertical direction of the vehicle. As a result, the amount of light passing through the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13 increases from the upper end toward the center in the vertical direction of the vehicle, while the light diffusibility increases. Therefore, even if the front end of the second light-shielding member 312 is tapered, the light passing through the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13 can be effectively diffused by the second recess 102.

[0052] The second recess 102 faces the front end of the second light-shielding member 312 and is a concave lens recessed toward the exit surface of the projection lens 10, which also has the effect of reducing the visibility of the second light-shielding member 312 when viewed through the projection lens 10.

[0053] 7 is a partial cross-sectional bottom view showing the projection lens 10 and reflector 30 of FIGS. 1 and 2. This figure shows a horizontal cross section of the condenser lens portion 14, the first diffusing lens portion 11, the second diffusing lens portion 12, and the third diffusing lens portion 13 of the projection lens 10, as well as the underside of the reflector 30.

[0054] As shown in this figure, the first diffusing lens section 11, the second diffusing lens section 12, and the third diffusing lens section 13 are arranged side by side from the inside to the outside in the vehicle width direction. The first diffusing lens section 11, the second diffusing lens section 12, and the third diffusing lens section 13 have different light diffusing properties. The third diffusing lens section 13 has a higher light diffusing property than the second diffusing lens section 12, and the second diffusing lens section 12 has a higher light diffusing property than the first diffusing lens section 11.

[0055] The lower the light diffusion property of the diffusion lens, the more distinct the difference between the diffused light that passes through the light distribution control area of ​​the diffusion lens and the light that passes through the periphery of the light distribution control area of ​​the diffusion lens, and the more harmful the light that passes through the periphery of the light distribution control area of ​​the diffusion lens becomes. In this embodiment, the first diffusion lens section 11 is a diffusion lens with lower light diffusion property than the second diffusion lens section 12. Therefore, the harmfulness of light that travels forward from the first irradiation unit U1 side to the front of the first light blocking member 311 and passes through the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12 is higher than the harmfulness of light that travels forward from the second irradiation unit U2 side to the front of the first light blocking member 311 and passes through the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12.

[0056] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second diffusing lens section 12 is a diffusing lens having lower light diffusing properties than the third diffusing lens section 13. Therefore, the harmfulness of light that travels from the second irradiation unit U2 side to the front of the third light blocking member 312 and passes through the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13 is higher than the harmfulness of light that travels from the third irradiation unit U3 side to the front of the second light blocking member 312 and passes through the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13.

[0057] Therefore, in this embodiment, the first light blocking member 311 is disposed between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12, closer to the first diffusing lens section 11. In addition, the second light blocking member 312 is disposed between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13, closer to the second diffusing lens section 12.

[0058] Specifically, the center of the width direction of the front end of the first light-blocking member 311 is disposed closer to the first diffusing lens section 11 than the center of the width direction of the first recess 101. This makes it possible to block more light from traveling from the first irradiation unit U1 side to the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12 than to block light from the second irradiation unit U2 side to the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12. Therefore, it is possible to reduce harmful light that has a relatively large impact and travels to the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12.

[0059] Furthermore, the center of the width direction of the front end of the second light-blocking member 312 is disposed closer to the second diffusing lens section 12 than the center of the width direction of the second recess 102. This makes it possible to block more light from traveling from the second irradiation unit U2 side to the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13 than to block light from the third irradiation unit U3 side to the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13. This makes it possible to reduce harmful light that has a relatively large impact and travels to the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13.

[0060] 8 is a partial cross-sectional plan view showing the projection lens 10' and reflector 30 of a vehicle lamp 1' of a comparative example. This figure shows a horizontal cross section of the condenser lens portion 14, the first diffusing lens portion 11, the second diffusing lens portion 12, and the third diffusing lens portion 13 of the projection lens 10', and the top surface of the reflector 30. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components as those in the above embodiment, and the description of the above embodiment will be incorporated herein.

[0061] As shown in this figure, the first recess 101 is not provided at the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12 on the incident surface of the projection lens 10′. Therefore, light traveling from the first reflector section 31 to the front of the first light blocking member 311 is not diffused when passing through the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12. Furthermore, light traveling from the second reflector section 32 and the third reflector section 33 to the front of the first light blocking member 311 is not diffused when passing through the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12. Furthermore, light reflected by the first diffusing lens section 11 and then reflected at the front end of the first light blocking member 311 is not diffused when passing through the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12. Furthermore, light reflected by the exit surface of second diffusing lens section 12 and then reflected by the front end of first light blocking member 311 is not diffused when passing through the boundary between first diffusing lens section 11 and second diffusing lens section 12. Here, because the boundary between first diffusing lens section 11 and second diffusing lens section 12 does not have a light diffusion control function, light that travels forward of first light blocking member 311 or is reflected by the front end of first light blocking member 311 is focused, becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like.

[0062] Furthermore, the second recess 102 is not provided at the boundary between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13 on the incident surface of the projection lens 10′. Therefore, light traveling from the second reflector section 32 and the third reflector section 33 to the front of the second light blocking member 312 is not diffused when passing through the boundary between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13. Furthermore, light traveling from the fourth reflector section 34 to the front of the second light blocking member 312 is not diffused when passing through the boundary between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13. Furthermore, light reflected by the second diffusion lens section 12 and then reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 is not diffused when passing through the boundary between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13. Furthermore, light reflected by the exit surface of third diffusing lens section 13 and then reflected by the front end of second light blocking member 312 is not diffused when passing through the boundary between second diffusing lens section 12 and third diffusing lens section 13. Here, the boundary between second diffusing lens section 12 and third diffusing lens section 13 does not have a light diffusion control function, so light that travels forward of third light blocking member 313 or that is reflected by the front end of third light blocking member 313 is focused, becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, etc.

[0063] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a low-beam light distribution pattern projected onto a virtual screen ahead of a vehicle by a vehicle lamp 1' of a comparative example. This diagram shows an example of a low-beam light distribution pattern projected by a vehicle lamp 1' mounted on a vehicle traveling on the left side. In this diagram, line V indicates the vertical line of the screen, and line H indicates the horizontal line of the screen. The intersection of line V and line H corresponds to the horizontal reference position. Furthermore, luminous intensity is shown as density. Note that the density increases as the luminous intensity increases.

[0064] It can be seen that light streaks have occurred in the area indicated by arrow A in Figure 9. These light streaks have been caused by the convergence of light that has passed through the boundary between second diffusing lens section 12 and third diffusing lens section 13.

[0065] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a low beam light distribution pattern projected onto a virtual screen in front of a vehicle by a vehicle lamp 1 such as that shown in FIG. 1. This diagram shows an example of a low beam light distribution pattern projected by a vehicle lamp 1 mounted on a vehicle traveling on the left side. In this diagram, line V indicates the vertical line of the screen, and line H indicates the horizontal line of the screen. The intersection of line V and line H corresponds to the horizontal reference position. Furthermore, luminous intensity is shown as density. Note that the density increases as the luminous intensity increases.

[0066] As shown in Fig. 10, compared to the comparative example, the light diffusion is high around the area indicated by arrow A in Fig. 9, and there is no light streak equivalent to that in Fig. 9. This confirms that the light passing through the boundary between second diffusing lens section 12 and third diffusing lens section 13 is diffused by second recess 102, and therefore no light streak occurs.

[0067] As described above, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the front end of the first light-shielding member 311 and the boundary between the first diffusing lens portion 11 and the second diffusing lens portion 12 are opposed to each other with a gap therebetween. Therefore, light that travels forward of the first light-shielding member 311 or that is reflected by the front end of the first light-shielding member 311 passes through the boundary between the first diffusing lens portion 11 and the second diffusing lens portion 12.

[0068] In contrast, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the projection lens 10 includes a first recess 101 formed at the boundary between the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12 to diffuse the light that passes through. This prevents the light that passes through the boundary between the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12 from becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like. Furthermore, because a gap through which light passes can be tolerated between the first light-shielding member 311 and the projection lens 10, the required level of positioning accuracy between the front end of the first light-shielding member 311 and the projection lens 10 is lowered. This avoids increases in parts costs and decreases in assembly workability, such as when the first light-shielding member 311 is made a separate member from the reflector 30 and then a positioning operation is performed between the first light-shielding member 311 and the projection lens 10.

[0069] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the front end of the second light blocking member 312 and the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 are opposed to each other with a gap therebetween. Therefore, light that travels forward of the second light blocking member 312 or that is reflected by the front end of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13.

[0070] In contrast, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the projection lens 10 includes a second recess 102 formed at the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 to diffuse the light that passes through. This prevents the light that passes through the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 from becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like. Furthermore, since a gap through which light passes can be tolerated between the second light-blocking member 312 and the projection lens 10, the required level of positioning accuracy between the front end of the second light-blocking member 312 and the projection lens 10 is lowered. This avoids increases in parts costs and decreases in assembly workability, such as when the second light-blocking member 312 is formed as a separate member from the reflector 30 and then a positioning operation is performed between the second light-blocking member 312 and the projection lens 10.

[0071] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the first recess 101 having a light diffusion control function formed at the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12 is a recess recessed toward the exit surface of the projection lens 10. This makes it possible to narrow the gap between the first light blocking member 311 and the projection lens 10, and reduce the amount of light passing through the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12, compared to when a convex section protruding toward the first light blocking member 311 is provided at the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12.

[0072] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the second recess 102 having a light diffusion control function formed at the boundary between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13 is a recess recessed toward the exit surface of the projection lens 10. This makes it possible to narrow the gap between the second light blocking member 312 and the projection lens 10, and reduce the amount of light passing through the boundary between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13, compared to when a convex section protruding toward the second light blocking member 312 is provided at the boundary between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13.

[0073] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the width of the first recess 101 gradually increases from both ends of the boundary between the first diffusing lens portion 11 and the second diffusing lens portion 12 toward the center. This increases the light diffusibility at the boundary between the first diffusing lens portion 11 and the second diffusing lens portion 12 from both ends of the boundary toward the center. This increases the diffusibility of light passing through the center of the boundary between the first diffusing lens portion 11 and the second diffusing lens portion 12.

[0074] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the width of the second recess 102 gradually increases from both ends of the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 toward the center. This increases the light diffusibility at the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 from both ends of the boundary toward the center. This increases the diffusibility of light passing through the center of the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13.

[0075] Furthermore, in the vehicular lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the boundary between the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12 is provided along the vehicle vertical direction, while the width of the first light-blocking member 311 gradually increases from the vehicle lower side to the vehicle upper side. This increases the light-blocking ability of the first light-blocking member 311 from the vehicle lower side to the vehicle upper side. Therefore, the light-blocking ability of the first light-blocking member 311 is increased against light that is reflected by the base portion 21 of the heat sink 20 and travels toward the upper end of the boundary between the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12. This reduces harmful light for pedestrians.

[0076] Furthermore, in the vehicular lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 is provided along the vehicle vertical direction, while the width of the second light-blocking member 312 gradually increases from the vehicle lower side to the vehicle upper side. This increases the light-blocking ability of the second light-blocking member 312 from the vehicle lower side to the vehicle upper side. Therefore, the light-blocking ability of the second light-blocking member 312 is increased against light that is reflected by the base portion 21 of the heat sink 20 and travels toward the upper end of the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13. This reduces harmful light for pedestrians.

[0077] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the first diffusing lens section 11 has lower light diffusing properties than the second diffusing lens section 12. In contrast, the first light blocking member 311 is disposed between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12, closer to the first diffusing lens section 11. Therefore, harmful light that passes through the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12 and has a relatively large impact can be suppressed.

[0078] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the second diffusion lens section 12 has lower light diffusion properties than the third diffusion lens section 13. In contrast, the second light blocking member 312 is disposed between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13, closer to the second diffusion lens section 12. Therefore, harmful light that passes through the boundary between the second diffusion lens section 12 and the third diffusion lens section 13 and has a relatively large impact can be suppressed.

[0079] Furthermore, in the vehicular lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12 is provided along the vehicle vertical direction, whereas the first recess 101, which functions as a light diffusion control section, is formed from the top to the bottom of the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12. This allows the first recess 101 to exhibit its light diffusion function over the entire area from the top to the bottom of the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12. The first recess 101 also exhibits the effect of reducing the visibility of the first light blocking member 311 when viewed through the projection lens 10. Note that it is not essential that the first recess 101 be formed over the entire area from the top to the bottom of the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12. It is sufficient that the first recess 101 be formed from the bottom of the boundary between the first diffusion lens section 11 and the second diffusion lens section 12 to at least the center in the vehicle vertical direction. Since the first recess 101 is formed from the lower end at the boundary between the first diffusing lens section 11 and the second diffusing lens section 12 to above the center of the vehicle in the vertical direction, the light diffusion function of the first recess 101 is exerted near the lower end of the relatively narrow first light-shielding member 311.

[0080] Furthermore, in the vehicular lamp 1 according to this embodiment, the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 is provided along the vehicle vertical direction, whereas the second recess 102, which functions as a light diffusion control portion, is formed from the top to the bottom of the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13. This allows the second recess 102 to exhibit its light diffusion function over the entire area from the top to the bottom of the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13. The second recess 102 also exhibits the effect of reducing the visibility of the second light blocking member 312 when viewed through the projection lens 10. Note that it is not essential that the second recess 102 be formed over the entire area from the top to the bottom of the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13. It is sufficient that the second recess 102 be formed from the bottom of the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 to at least the center in the vehicle vertical direction. Since the second recess 102 is formed from the lower end at the boundary between the second diffusing lens section 12 and the third diffusing lens section 13 to above the center of the vehicle in the vertical direction, the light diffusion function of the second recess 102 is exerted near the lower end of the relatively narrow second light-shielding member 312.

[0081] The vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment includes a reflector 30 provided with a first light-shielding member 311 and a second light-shielding member 312, and a heat sink 20 to which the reflector 30 is attached. The first light-shielding member 311 and the second light-shielding member 312 extend from the reflector 30 toward the heat sink 20, and the first light-shielding member 311 and the second light-shielding member 312 face the base portion 21 of the heat sink 20 via a gap. The first recess 101, which functions as a light diffusion control portion, includes a portion facing the gap between the first light-shielding member 311 and the base portion 21 of the heat sink 20. The second recess 102, which functions as a light diffusion control portion, includes a portion facing the gap between the second light-shielding member 312 and the base portion 21 of the heat sink 20. This allows the first recess 101 to exhibit its light diffusion function for light passing through the gap between the first light-shielding member 311 and the base portion 21 of the heat sink 20. Furthermore, the second recess 102 exhibits a light diffusing function for light passing through the gap between the second light blocking member 312 and the base portion 21 of the heat sink 20 .

[0082] The vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment is also provided with a first light-blocking member 311 and a reflector 30, which is a frame for positioning the projection lens 10. The projection lens 10 has a positioning protrusion 16 that extends from above the second diffusion lens portion 12 toward the reflector 30, and the reflector 30 has a hole 37 with which the protrusion 16 engages, thereby positioning the second diffusion lens portion 12 relative to the reflector 30.

[0083] Here, the first light-shielding member 311 and the second light-shielding member 312 are arranged to sandwich the optical axis of the second diffusion lens unit 12. Therefore, by positioning the second diffusion lens unit 12 with respect to the reflector 30, it is possible to accurately position the boundary between the first diffusion lens unit 11 and the second diffusion lens unit 12 and the first light-shielding member 311, and the boundary between the second diffusion lens unit 12 and the third diffusion lens unit 13 and the second light-shielding member 312. It is not essential that the protrusion 16 extend from above the second diffusion lens unit 12 toward the reflector 30. The protrusion 16 may be provided to extend from below the second diffusion lens unit 12 toward the reflector 30, or the protrusion 16 may be provided to extend from above or below the first diffusion lens unit 11 toward the reflector 30.

[0084] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, a first recess 101 having light diffusing properties is provided at the boundary between the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12, both of which have light diffusing properties. As a result, in addition to light being diffused by the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12, light is also diffused by the first recess 101 located at the boundary between the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12. Therefore, a diffused light distribution in which glare, light streaks, etc. are suppressed can be achieved.

[0085] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1 according to this embodiment, a second recess 102 having light diffusing properties is provided at the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13, both of which have light diffusing properties. As a result, in addition to light being diffused by the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13, light is also diffused by the second recess 102 located at the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13. Therefore, a diffused light distribution in which glare, light streaks, etc. are suppressed can be achieved.

[0086] 11 is a partial cross-sectional plan view showing a projection lens 110 and a reflector 30 of a vehicle lamp 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a horizontal cross section of the condenser lens portion 14, the first diffusing lens portion 11, the second diffusing lens portion 12, and the third diffusing lens portion 13 of the projection lens 110, and the top surface of the reflector 30. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components as in the above embodiment, and the description of the above embodiment is incorporated herein.

[0087] In the vehicle lamp 100 according to this embodiment, a first convex portion 111 is provided at the boundary between the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12 on the incident surface of the projection lens 110. In addition, a second convex portion 112 is provided at the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 on the incident surface of the projection lens 110.

[0088] The first convex portion 111 is a convex portion having a curved surface that bulges toward the second light blocking member 312 side, and extends from the lower end to the upper end of the projection lens 110. The first convex portion 111 faces the front end of the second light blocking member 312 with a gap therebetween.

[0089] Light that travels from the first reflector unit 31 to the front of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first convex unit 111. Light that travels from the second reflector unit 32 and the third reflector unit 33 to the front of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first convex unit 111. Light that is reflected by the exit surface of the first diffusing lens unit 11 and then reflected by the front end of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first convex unit 111. Light that is reflected by the exit surface of the second diffusing lens unit 12 and then reflected by the front end of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first convex unit 111. Here, since the first convex unit 111 has a light diffusion control function, light that travels to the front of the first light blocking member 311 or is reflected by the front end of the first light blocking member 311 is diffused. Therefore, light traveling forward of the first light-shielding member 311 or reflected at the front end of the first light-shielding member 311 is prevented from converging and becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like.

[0090] The second convex portion 112 is a convex portion having a curved surface that bulges toward the third light-shielding member 313, and extends from the lower end to the upper end of the projection lens 110. The second convex portion 112 faces the front end of the third light-shielding member 313 with a gap therebetween.

[0091] Light that travels forward of the second light blocking member 312 from the second reflector unit 32 and the third reflector unit 33 passes through the second convex unit 112. Light that travels forward of the second light blocking member 312 from the fourth reflector unit 34 passes through the second convex unit 112. Light that is reflected by the exit surface of the second diffusing lens unit 12 and then reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the second convex unit 112. Light that is reflected by the exit surface of the third diffusing lens unit 13 and then reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the second convex unit 112. Here, since the second convex unit 112 has a light diffusion control function, light that travels forward of the second light blocking member 312 or is reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 is diffused. Therefore, light that travels forward of the second light-blocking member 312 or is reflected at the front end of the second light-blocking member 312 is prevented from converging and becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like.

[0092] 12 is a partial cross-sectional plan view showing a projection lens 1100 and a reflector 30 of a vehicle lamp 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a horizontal cross section of the condenser lens portion 14, the first diffusing lens portion 11, the second diffusing lens portion 12, and the third diffusing lens portion 13 of the projection lens 1100, and the top surface of the reflector 30. Note that the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components as in the above embodiment, and the description of the above embodiment is incorporated herein.

[0093] In the vehicle lamp 1000 according to this embodiment, a first uneven portion 1101 is provided at the boundary between the first diffusion lens portion 11 and the second diffusion lens portion 12 on the incident surface of the projection lens 1100. In addition, a second uneven portion 1102 is provided at the boundary between the second diffusion lens portion 12 and the third diffusion lens portion 13 on the incident surface of the projection lens 1100.

[0094] The first uneven portion 1101 is an uneven portion (wave-shaped portion) with multiple parallel concave surfaces recessed toward the incident surface side, and extends from the lower end to the upper end of the projection lens 1100. The first uneven portion 1101 faces the front end of the second light-shielding member 312 with a gap therebetween.

[0095] Light traveling from the first reflector unit 31 to the front of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first uneven portion 1101. Light traveling from the second reflector unit 32 and the third reflector unit 33 to the front of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first uneven portion 1101. Light reflected by the exit surface of the first diffusing lens unit 11 and then reflected at the front end of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first uneven portion 1101. Light reflected by the exit surface of the second diffusing lens unit 12 and then reflected at the front end of the first light blocking member 311 passes through the first uneven portion 1101. Here, the first uneven portion 1101 has a light diffusion control function, and thus diffuses light traveling to the front of the first light blocking member 311 or reflected at the front end of the first light blocking member 311. Therefore, light traveling forward of the first light-shielding member 311 or reflected at the front end of the first light-shielding member 311 is prevented from converging and becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like.

[0096] The second uneven portion 1102 is an uneven portion (wave-shaped portion) with multiple parallel concave surfaces recessed toward the incident surface side, and extends from the lower end to the upper end of the projection lens 1100. The second uneven portion 1102 faces the tip of the third light-shielding member 313 with a gap therebetween.

[0097] Light that travels from the second reflector unit 32 and the third reflector unit 33 forward of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the second uneven portion 1102. Light that travels from the fourth reflector unit 34 forward of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the second uneven portion 1102. Light that is reflected by the exit surface of the second diffusing lens unit 12 and then reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the second uneven portion 1102. Light that is reflected by the exit surface of the third diffusing lens unit 13 and then reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 passes through the second uneven portion 1102. Here, because the second uneven portion 1102 has a light diffusion control function, light that travels forward of the second light blocking member 312 or is reflected at the front end of the second light blocking member 312 is diffused. Therefore, light that travels forward of the second light-blocking member 312 or is reflected at the front end of the second light-blocking member 312 is prevented from converging and becoming harmful light that causes glare, light streaks, and the like.

[0098] Although the present invention has been described above based on the above-mentioned embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and techniques from the embodiments or well-known or publicly known techniques may be combined.

[0099] For example, in the above embodiment, the optical system is composed of a reflector 30 and a projection lens 10, but instead of the reflector 30, a lens such as a primary lens may be provided so that light from the first light emitter 411, the second light emitter 412, the third light emitter 413, the fourth light emitter 414, and the fifth light emitter 415 passes through.

[0100] In addition, in the above embodiment, the first frame in which the first light-shielding member 311, the second light-shielding member 312, etc. are provided is defined as the reflector 30, but this is not essential. For example, in cases where a lens such as a primary lens is provided so that light from the first light emitter 411, the second light emitter 412, the third light emitter 413, etc. passes through, a frame that is a resin-molded frame body that does not function as a reflector may be defined as the first frame. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the present invention has been described using a headlight as an example, but the present invention is also applicable to other vehicle lamps such as a taillight. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1: Vehicle lighting fixtures 10: Projection lens 11: First diffusion lens part (first lens part) 12: Second diffusion lens section (second lens section, first lens section) 13: Third diffusion lens part (second lens part) 16: Protrusion (positioning member) 20: Heat sink (second frame) 30: Reflector (frame, first frame) 37: Hole (engagement part) 100: Vehicle lighting fixtures 101: First recess (light diffusion control portion) 102: Second recess (light diffusion control portion) 110: Projection lens 111: First convex portion (light diffusion control portion) 112: Second convex portion (light diffusion control portion) 311: First light-shielding member (light-shielding member) 312: Second light-shielding member (light-shielding member) 313: Third light blocking member 411: First light emitter 412: Second light emitter (first light emitter) 413: Third light-emitting body (second light-emitting body, first light-emitting body) 414: 4th luminous body (2nd luminous body) 1000: Vehicle lighting fixtures 1100: Projection lens 1101: First uneven portion (light diffusion control portion) 1102: Second uneven portion (light diffusion control portion)

Claims

1. A first light emitter; A second light emitter; a projection lens in which a first lens portion that projects the light emitted by the first light emitter and a second lens portion that projects the light emitted by the second light emitter are integrally formed; a light-shielding member, a portion of which is disposed to face the boundary between the first lens portion and the second lens portion, and which blocks light emitted by the first light emitter and traveling toward the second lens portion and light emitted by the second light emitter and traveling toward the first lens portion; Equipped with The projection lens includes a light diffusion control section formed at the boundary between the first lens section and the second lens section, which diffuses light passing through the projection lens.

2. 2. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, wherein the light diffusion control section is provided on an incident surface of the projection lens and is a recessed portion recessed toward an exit surface of the projection lens.

3. 3. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, wherein a width of the light diffusion control portion gradually increases from both ends of the boundary between the first lens portion and the second lens portion toward a center in the longitudinal direction.

4. The boundary between the first lens portion and the second lens portion is provided along the vehicle up-down direction, 3. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, wherein the width of the light blocking member gradually increases from a lower side of the vehicle to an upper side of the vehicle.

5. the first lens portion has a lower light diffusion property than the second lens portion, The vehicle lamp according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light blocking member is disposed between the first lens portion and the second lens portion and closer to the first lens portion.

6. The boundary between the first lens portion and the second lens portion is provided along the vehicle up-down direction, 3. The vehicular lamp according to claim 1, wherein the light diffusion control portion is formed from a lower end of the boundary between the first lens portion and the second lens portion to a center portion or higher in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

7. a first frame on which the light blocking member is provided; a second frame to which the first frame is attached; and Equipped with the light blocking member extends from the first frame toward the second frame, the light blocking member and the second frame face each other with a gap therebetween, The vehicle lamp according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light diffusion control portion includes a portion facing the gap between the light blocking member and the second frame.

8. a frame on which the light blocking member is provided and on which the projection lens is positioned; the projection lens includes a positioning member extending from above or below one of the first lens portion and the second lens portion toward the frame, the frame includes an engagement portion with which the positioning member engages; 3. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, wherein the one of the first lens portion and the second lens portion is positioned relative to the frame.

9. 3. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, wherein the first lens portion and the second lens portion are concave lenses having light diffusibility.

10. the first lens portion projects light emitted from the first light emitter forward of the vehicle; The vehicular lamp according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second lens portion projects the light emitted from the second light emitter forward of the vehicle.

Images