Vehicle lighting

Abstract

To provide a vehicle lighting fixture that improves the appearance when the lights are not illuminated. [Solution] A vehicle lamp 1A is provided in which a lamp body 4 is composed of a housing 2 with an open front and an outer lens 3 covering the opening of the housing 2, and a lamp unit 5A is arranged inside the lamp body 4, and includes a light-emitting region E that emits light when light L emitted by the lamp unit 5A is emitted from the front side of the outer lens 3, and a covering layer 6 that covers the front side of the outer lens 3 in the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100, the covering layer 6 has an opening 6a that is opened corresponding to the light-emitting region E, and on the inside of the lamp body 4 there is a same-color portion 11 in which, when the lamp unit 5A is not lit, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a by irradiation of external light L' is the same color as the covering layer 6.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to vehicle lamps.

Background Art

[0002] For example, a vehicle lamp mounted on a vehicle has a lamp unit disposed inside a lamp body composed of a housing with an open front and an outer lens covering the opening of the housing, and emits light by emitting the light irradiated by this lamp unit from the front side of the outer lens.

[0003] By the way, in the above-described conventional vehicle lamp, when the lamp unit is not lit, the appearance may be deteriorated by the light projected to the outside from the front side of the outer lens due to the irradiation of external light.

[0004] For example, in Patent Documents 1 and 2 below, a decorative lighting device is proposed in which light transmission portions such as minute dots are formed on a plate material, a light source is disposed behind the plate material with other portions being light non-transmission portions, and a design shape corresponding to the light transmission portions is recognized by a user when the light source is lit.

[0005] In the inventions described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 below, when the light source is not lit, the light transmission portions of the minute dots look black or white depending on the configuration inside the lamp body due to the irradiation of external light. Therefore, depending on the color compatibility with the light non-transmission portions, the light transmission portions become conspicuous, and the appearance when not lit deteriorates.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] This invention was proposed in view of the above-mentioned conventional circumstances, and aims to provide a vehicle lighting device that can improve the appearance when not illuminated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, the present invention provides the following means. [1] A vehicle lighting fixture in which a lighting unit is arranged inside a lighting body composed of a housing with an open front and an outer lens that covers the opening of the housing, The light-emitting region includes a light-emitting area that emits light by emitting light from the front side of the outer lens through the light irradiated by the light fixture unit, The outer lens is provided with a coating layer that covers the front side in the same color as the exterior of the vehicle. The coating layer has an opening that corresponds to the light-emitting region, A vehicle light fixture characterized in that, inside the light fixture body, there is a portion of the same color as the coating layer, which, when the light fixture unit is not illuminated, is projected to the outside through the opening by external light irradiation. [2] The vehicle light fixture according to [1], characterized in that the same-colored portion is provided in a range that overlaps with the opening when the outer lens is viewed from the front. [3] The lighting unit comprises a light source and a circuit board on which the light source is mounted. The circuit board is arranged such that the side on which the light source is mounted faces the outer lens. The vehicle lighting device according to [1], characterized in that the portion of the same color is provided on the side of the circuit board on which the light source is mounted. [4] The lighting unit comprises a light source and a light guide that guides the light emitted from the light source, The vehicle lamp according to [1], characterized in that the same-colored portion is provided on the side of the light guide opposite to the side facing the outer lens, or on the front side of the housing. [5] The lighting unit comprises a light source and a reflector that reflects the light emitted from the light source. The vehicle lamp according to [1], characterized in that the same-colored portion is located on the light source side and is provided facing the reflective surface of the reflector. [6] The vehicle lamp according to [5], characterized in that a reflective layer is provided on the back side of the outer lens, excluding the light-emitting region, which reflects the light reflected by the reflective surface of the reflector toward the reflector. [7] The lighting unit comprises a light source and a light guide which is composed of at least a part of the outer lens and guides the light emitted from the light source. The vehicle light fixture according to [1], characterized in that the same-colored portion is provided opposite to the rear side of the outer lens. [8] The vehicle lamp according to [1], characterized in that an anti-reflective portion is provided on the inside of the lamp body to prevent light reflected by the same-color portion from being projected to the outside through the opening when the lamp unit is lit. [9] The lighting unit comprises a light source and a circuit board on which the light source is mounted. The anti-reflective portion is composed of an uneven structure provided on the side of the circuit board on which the light source is mounted. The vehicle lamp according to [8], characterized in that the same-colored portion has an uneven shape that reflects the uneven structure while covering the uneven structure.

[10] The vehicle lamp according to [1], characterized by comprising a diffusion lens disposed between the outer lens and the lamp unit, which diffuses the light emitted by the lamp unit toward the outer lens.

[11] Inside the lamp body, an anti-reflective portion is provided to prevent light reflected by the same-color portion from being projected to the outside through the opening when the lamp unit is lit. The vehicle lamp according to

[10] , characterized in that the anti-reflective portion is provided on the side of the diffusion lens opposite to the side facing the outer lens. 〔12〕The antireflection part is provided between the coating layer and the outer lens or on the back side of the outer lens excluding the light-emitting area thereof, and the vehicle lamp according to 〔8〕 is characterized in this. 〔13〕The vehicle lamp according to 〔1〕 is characterized by comprising a light-shielding member that is disposed between the outer lens and the lamp unit and shields a part of the light irradiated by the lamp unit. 〔14〕The vehicle lamp according to 〔13〕 is characterized in that the same-color part is provided on the surface side of the light-shielding member facing the outer lens. 〔15〕The vehicle lamp according to 〔1〕 is characterized in that the front side of the outer lens forms a surface continuous with the vehicle exterior. 〔16〕The vehicle lamp according to 〔1〕 is characterized in that the outer lens constitutes a part of the vehicle exterior.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] As described above, according to the present invention, there is provided a vehicle lamp capable of improving the appearance when not lit.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle lamp according to a first embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the front side. [Figure 2] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lamp by line segment A-A shown in FIG. 1. <​​​​​​​​​​​​It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] It is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a vehicle lamp according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings used in the following description, for the sake of easy viewing of each component, the scale of dimensions may be made different depending on the component, and the dimensional ratios of each component are not necessarily the same as the actual ones.

[0012] (First Embodiment) As a first embodiment of the present invention, for example, the vehicle lamp 1A shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 will be described. Note that FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the vehicle 100 equipped with the vehicle lamp 1A as seen from the front side. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lamp 1A along the line segment A - A shown in FIG. 1.

[0013] Furthermore, in the drawings shown below, an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system is set up, with the X-axis direction representing the front-to-back direction of the vehicle 100, the Y-axis direction representing the left-to-right direction of the vehicle 100, and the Z-axis direction representing the up-to-down direction of the vehicle 100.

[0014] The vehicle lighting device 1A of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, for example, is an accessory lamp or daytime running light (DRL) mounted on the front side of a vehicle 100, and emits white light from the light-emitting region E provided on its front side.

[0015] Furthermore, in the light-emitting area E, located in the center of the front side, it is possible to illuminate and display a display pattern P1 such as the vehicle name, manufacturer name, or other brand name or logo, or a decorative display pattern P2 on both sides of display pattern P1. Note that the light-emitting area E is not necessarily limited to the display patterns P1 and P2 described above, and can be changed as appropriate to match the design of the vehicle 100.

[0016] Specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, this vehicle lighting fixture 1A has a structure in which a lighting unit 5A is positioned inside a lighting body 4, which is composed of a housing 2 with an open front and an outer lens 3 that covers the opening of the housing 2.

[0017] The light unit 4 is positioned so that the outer lens 3 faces outward through an opening 104 provided between the hood 102 and the bumper 103, which form the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100. As a result, the front side of the outer lens 3 forms a continuous surface with the hood 102 and the bumper 103 (exterior 101). The shape of the light unit 4 can be changed as appropriate to match the design of the vehicle 100.

[0018] Furthermore, the vehicle light fixture 1A of this embodiment includes a coating layer 6 that covers the front side of the outer lens 3. The coating layer 6 is made of paint or film of the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 and is provided to cover the entire surface of the outer lens 3. On the other hand, the coating layer 6 is provided with an open opening 6a corresponding to the light-emitting area E. In addition, a colorless, transparent hard coat layer 7 is provided over the entire front side of the outer lens 3 to protect the coating layer 6.

[0019] In this invention, "same color" does not only mean that the colors are exactly the same, but also that they are similar or related colors.

[0020] The lighting unit 5A has multiple light sources 8 and a circuit board 9 on which the multiple light sources 8 are mounted. The multiple light sources 8 consist of light-emitting elements such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that emit white light. The circuit board 9 is mounted on the front side of the housing 2 such that the side on which the multiple light sources 8 are mounted faces the outer lens 3. The multiple light sources 8 are arranged in a line on the front surface of the circuit board 9 and emit light L radially toward the outer lens 3.

[0021] The lighting unit 5A can supply power to multiple light sources 8 via a harness 10 connected to the circuit board 9, and can also control the illumination of multiple light sources 8.

[0022] As a result, in the vehicle lamp 1A of this embodiment, when the lamp unit 5A is lit, the light L emitted by the lamp unit 5A is emitted from the opening 6a of the coating layer 6 to the outside of the outer lens 3, making it possible to emit white light in the light-emitting area E.

[0023] On the other hand, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1A of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not illuminated, the covering layer 6, which is the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100, gives the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 and the outer lens 3 a common appearance, thus creating a sense of design unity. The color of the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 is not particularly limited.

[0024] By the way, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1A of this embodiment, a color-matched portion 11, which is the same color as the coating layer 6, is provided on the front side of the circuit board 9. The color-matched portion 11 consists of paint or film of the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100.

[0025] The same-colored portion 11 is provided in a range that at least overlaps with the opening 6a when the outer lens 3 is viewed from the front. In this embodiment, the same-colored portion 11 is provided over the area excluding the multiple light sources 8 on the front side of the circuit board 9.

[0026] As a result, in the vehicle lamp 1A of this embodiment, when the lamp unit 5A is not lit, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a by the irradiation of external light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11.

[0027] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1A of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not illuminated, the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the covering layer 6 can be made less noticeable, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not illuminated.

[0028] (Second embodiment) Next, as a second embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1B shown in Figure 3 will be described. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1B corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0029] As shown in Figure 3, the vehicle lamp 1B of this embodiment includes, in addition to the configuration of the vehicle lamp 1B described above, a diffusion lens 12 positioned between the outer lens 3 and the lamp unit 5A. The diffusion lens 12 diffuses the light L emitted from the multiple light sources 8, thereby causing the light-emitting area E to emit light more uniformly.

[0030] Furthermore, it is preferable to use a light-diffusing part, such as an optical prism, on a colorless, transparent substrate rather than a milky white, semi-transparent substrate for the diffusion lens 12. This allows the light L' reflected by the aforementioned same-colored part 11 to be projected to the outside through the opening 6a without being blocked by the diffusion lens 12 when the luminaire unit 5A is not lit.

[0031] Furthermore, the vehicle light fixture 1B of this embodiment is equipped with an anti-reflective section 13 that prevents the light L reflected by the same-color section 11 from being projected to the outside through the opening 6a when the light fixture unit 5A is lit.

[0032] The anti-reflective section 13 consists of an anti-reflective coating (AR coating) provided on the side of the diffusion lens 12 opposite to the side facing the outer lens 3 (front side) (back side). The anti-reflective coating prevents light L emitted from the light source 8 from being reflected on the back side of the diffusion lens 12.

[0033] As a result, in the vehicle lighting device 1B of this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the light L reflected from the back side of the diffusion lens 12 from entering the same-color portion 11, while also preventing the light L reflected by the same-color portion 11 from being projected to the outside through the opening 6a.

[0034] In addition, the vehicle lighting fixture 1B of this embodiment may be configured without the anti-reflective section 13 described above.

[0035] (Third embodiment) Next, as a third embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1C shown in Figure 4 will be described. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1C corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0036] As shown in Figure 4, the vehicle light fixture 1C of this embodiment includes a transparent layer 14 that is the same color as the covering layer 6, in addition to the configuration of the vehicle light fixture 1A described above. The transparent layer 14 is provided so as to cover each of the multiple light sources 8 arranged on the front side of the circuit board 9.

[0037] As a result, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1C of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not lit, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a by the irradiation of ambient light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11, and the light source 8, which is covered with a translucent layer 14 that is the same color as the coating layer 6, is made less conspicuous.

[0038] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1C of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not illuminated, the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the covering layer 6 can be made less noticeable, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not illuminated.

[0039] (Fourth embodiment) Next, as a fourth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1D shown in Figure 5 will be described. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1D corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0040] As shown in Figure 5, the vehicle light fixture 1D of this embodiment includes, in addition to the configuration of the light fixture unit 5A, an anti-reflective part 15 that prevents the light L reflected by the same-color part 11 from being projected to the outside through the opening 6a when the light fixture unit 5A is lit.

[0041] The anti-reflective portion 15 is composed of a fine uneven structure provided in the area of ​​the circuit board 9 excluding the multiple light sources 8 on the front side. The same-color portion 11 covers this uneven structure and has an uneven shape that reflects the uneven structure.

[0042] Furthermore, the vehicle light fixture 1D of this embodiment includes a diffusion lens 12 positioned between the outer lens 3 and the light fixture unit 5A.

[0043] In the vehicle lighting device 1D of this embodiment, light L emitted from the light source 8 is reflected on the back side of the diffusion lens 12 and then incident on the front side of the circuit board 9. At this time, the surface of the same-colored portion 11, which reflects the uneven structure of the anti-reflective portion 15, prevents the light L incident on the front side of the circuit board 9 from being reflected.

[0044] As a result, in the vehicle lighting device 1D of this embodiment, when the lighting device unit 5A is lit, it is possible to prevent the light L reflected by the same-colored portion 11 from being projected to the outside through the opening 6a.

[0045] (Fifth embodiment) Next, as a fifth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1E shown in Figure 6 will be described. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1E corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0046] As shown in Figure 6, the vehicle light fixture 1E of this embodiment includes, in addition to the configuration of the light fixture unit 5A, an anti-reflective part 16 that prevents the light L reflected by the same-color part 11 from being projected to the outside through the opening 6a when the light fixture unit 5A is lit.

[0047] The anti-reflective portion 16 consists of a black light-shielding film provided between the coating layer 6 and the outer lens 3, forming the base layer of the coating layer 6. The anti-reflective portion 16 suppresses the reflection of light L emitted from the light source 8 on the back side of the outer lens 3, and also prevents changes in the color of the coating layer 6 by shielding the back side of the coating layer 6.

[0048] As a result, in the vehicle lamp 1E of this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the light L reflected from the back side of the outer lens 3 from entering the same-color portion 11, while also preventing the light L reflected by the same-color portion 11 from being projected to the outside through the opening 6a.

[0049] The anti-reflective portion 16 may also be provided on the back side of the outer lens 3, excluding the light-emitting region E.

[0050] (Sixth embodiment) Next, as a sixth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting fixture 1F shown in Figure 7 will be described. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1F corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0051] As shown in Figure 7, the vehicle light fixture 1F of this embodiment includes, in addition to the configuration of the light fixture unit 5A, an extension 17 positioned between the outer lens 3 and the light fixture unit 5A to block a portion of the light L emitted by the light fixture unit 5A.

[0052] The extension 17 is made of, for example, a black light-shielding material, covers the front side of the luminaire unit 5A, and has multiple openings 17a positioned opposite each of the multiple light sources 8.

[0053] As a result, the extension 17 allows light L emitted from multiple light sources 8 to pass through multiple openings 17a. On the other hand, the extension 17 shields the area of ​​the circuit board 9 that is not affected by the multiple light sources 8 on the front side.

[0054] The same-colored portion 11 is provided to cover the side (front side) of the extension 17 that faces the outer lens 3.

[0055] As a result, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1F of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not lit, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a due to the irradiation of external light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11.

[0056] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1F of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not lit, the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the covering layer 6 can be made less noticeable, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not on.

[0057] (Seventh Embodiment) Next, as a seventh embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1G shown in Figure 8 will be described. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1G corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0058] As shown in Figure 8, the vehicle lighting fixture 1G of this embodiment includes a lighting fixture unit 5B instead of the lighting fixture unit 5A. The lighting fixture unit 5B has a plurality of light sources 8 and an inner lens 18 that guides the light L emitted from the plurality of light sources 8.

[0059] Multiple light sources 8 are arranged in a line along the width of the vehicle 100 on the underside of a circuit board 9 that extends in the width direction of the vehicle 100. The circuit board 9 is mounted on the upper side of the housing 2.

[0060] The inner lens 18 is made of a plate-shaped light guide (light guide plate) made of, for example, a transparent resin such as polycarbonate or acrylic, or glass. The inner lens 18 extends in the width direction of the vehicle 100 and has a shape in which the back side is inclined toward the front side such that the thickness gradually decreases from the upper end side toward the lower end side. The inner lens 18 is located below the multiple light sources 8 and is positioned opposite the outer lens 3.

[0061] The inner lens 18 has an incident surface 18a on the upper end side, a plurality of reflection cuts 18b on the back side, and an exit surface 18c on the front side.

[0062] In the lighting unit 5B, light L emitted downward from multiple light sources 8 enters the interior of the inner lens 18 from the incident surface 18a, is then guided toward the lower end of the inner lens 18, and the light L reflected by multiple reflection cuts 18b is emitted to the outside of the inner lens 18 from the exit surface 18c.

[0063] As a result, in the vehicle lighting device 1G of this embodiment, when the lighting device unit 5B is turned on, the light L emitted by the lighting device unit 5B is emitted from the opening 6a of the coating layer 6 to the outside of the outer lens 3, making it possible to make the light-emitting area E emit white light.

[0064] On the other hand, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1G of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5B is not illuminated, the covering layer 6, which is the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100, gives the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 and the outer lens 3 a common appearance, thus making it possible to create a sense of design unity.

[0065] Furthermore, in the vehicle lighting device 1G of this embodiment, a color-matched portion 11, which is the same color as the coating layer 6, is provided on the side of the inner lens 18 opposite to the side facing the outer lens 3 (front side) (rear side), or on the front side of the housing 2. In this embodiment, the color-matched portion 11 is provided so as to cover the front side of the housing 2.

[0066] As a result, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1G of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5B is not illuminated, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a due to the irradiation of external light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11.

[0067] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1G of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5B is not illuminated, the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the covering layer 6 can be made less noticeable, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not illuminated.

[0068] (Eighth embodiment) Next, as an eighth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1H shown in Figure 9 will be described. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1H corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0069] As shown in Figure 9, the vehicle lighting fixture 1H of this embodiment includes a lighting fixture unit 5C instead of the lighting fixture unit 5A. The lighting fixture unit 5C has a plurality of light sources 8 and a reflector 19 that reflects the light L emitted from the plurality of light sources 8 toward the outer lens 3.

[0070] Multiple light sources 8 are arranged in a line along the width of the vehicle 100 on the underside of a circuit board 9 that extends in the width direction of the vehicle 100. The circuit board 9 is mounted on the upper side of the housing 2.

[0071] The reflector 19 is located below the multiple light sources 8 and is positioned opposite the outer lens 3. The reflector 19 extends in the width direction of the vehicle 100 and has a concave reflective surface 19a based on a parabola with the center (light-emitting point) of each light source 8 as its focal point.

[0072] In the lighting unit 5C, the light L emitted downward from multiple light sources 8 is reflected toward the outer lens 3 by the reflective surface 19a of the reflector 19.

[0073] As a result, in the vehicle lighting device 1H of this embodiment, when the lighting device unit 5C is turned on, the light L emitted by the lighting device unit 5C is emitted from the opening 6a of the coating layer 6 to the outside of the outer lens 3, making it possible to make the light-emitting area E emit white light.

[0074] On the other hand, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1H of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5C is not illuminated, the covering layer 6, which is the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100, gives the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 and the outer lens 3 a common appearance, thus making it possible to create a sense of design unity.

[0075] Furthermore, the vehicle lighting fixture 1H of this embodiment includes a light-shielding member 20 that covers the front side of the multiple light sources 8 and has multiple openings 20a positioned opposite each of the multiple light sources 8. The light-shielding member 20 allows light L emitted from the multiple light sources 8 to pass through the multiple openings 20a. On the other hand, the light-shielding member 20 shields the area of ​​the circuit board 9 excluding the multiple light sources 8 on the front side.

[0076] The same-colored portion 11 is provided to cover the side (front side) of the light-shielding member 20 that faces the reflective surface 19a of the reflector 19. In other words, when the outer lens 3 is viewed from the front, this same-colored portion 11 is provided facing the reflective surface 19a of the reflector 19, which corresponds to at least the area that overlaps with the opening 6a.

[0077] As a result, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1H of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5C is not illuminated, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a by the irradiation of external light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11.

[0078] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1H of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5C is not illuminated, the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the covering layer 6 can be made less noticeable, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not illuminated.

[0079] Furthermore, a reflective layer 21 is provided on the back side of the outer lens 3, excluding the light-emitting region E, which reflects the light L reflected by the reflective surface 19a of the reflector 19 back towards the reflector 19.

[0080] As a result, in the vehicle lighting device 1H of this embodiment, when the lighting device unit 5C is lit, the light L is repeatedly reflected between the reflective layer 21 and the reflective surface 19a of the reflector 19, and the light L is emitted from the opening 6a of the coating layer 6 to the outside of the outer lens 3, thereby making the light-emitting area E brighter and emitting white light.

[0081] (Ninth embodiment) Next, as a ninth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1J shown in Figure 10 will be described. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1J corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0082] As shown in Figure 10, the vehicle lighting fixture 1J of this embodiment includes a lighting fixture unit 5D instead of the lighting fixture unit 5A. The lighting fixture unit 5D has a plurality of light sources 8 and a light guide 22 which is made up of at least a part of the outer lens 3 and guides the light L emitted from the plurality of light sources 8.

[0083] Multiple light sources 8 are arranged in a line along the width of the vehicle 100 on the front of a circuit board 9 that extends in the width direction of the vehicle 100. The circuit board 9 is mounted on the upper side of the housing 2.

[0084] The light guide 22 has an incident surface 22a on the upper rear end side of the outer lens 3, a plurality of reflection cuts 22b corresponding to the light emission area E on the back side of the outer lens 3, and an exit surface 22c on the front side of the outer lens 3.

[0085] In the lighting unit 5D, light L emitted forward from multiple light sources 8 enters the interior of the light guide 22 (outer lens 3) from the incident surface 22a, then guides the light towards the lower end of the light guide 22 (outer lens 3), and the light L reflected by multiple reflection cuts 22b is emitted from the exit surface 22c to the outside of the light guide 22 (outer lens 3).

[0086] As a result, in the vehicle lighting device 1J of this embodiment, when the lighting device unit 5D is turned on, the light L emitted by the lighting device unit 5D is emitted from the opening 6a of the coating layer 6 to the outside of the outer lens 3, making it possible to make the light-emitting area E emit white light.

[0087] On the other hand, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1J of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5D is not illuminated, the covering layer 6, which is the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100, gives the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 and the outer lens 3 a common appearance, thus making it possible to create a sense of design unity.

[0088] Furthermore, in the vehicle lamp 1J of this embodiment, a color-matched portion 11, which is the same color as the coating layer 6, is provided facing the back side of the outer lens 3. That is, this color-matched portion 11 is provided so as to cover the front side of the housing 2.

[0089] As a result, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1J of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5D is not illuminated, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a due to the irradiation of external light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11.

[0090] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1J of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5D is not illuminated, the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the covering layer 6 can be made less noticeable, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not illuminated.

[0091] Furthermore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1J of this embodiment, by utilizing a part of the outer lens 3 described above as a lighting unit 5D, it is possible to simplify the component configuration, reduce the depth dimension, and lighten the weight.

[0092] (Tenth embodiment) Next, as a tenth embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1K shown in Figure 11 will be described. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1K corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixtures 1A and 1J will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0093] As shown in Figure 10, the vehicle lighting fixture 1K of this embodiment includes a sensor 23 positioned between the housing 2 and the outer lens 3, in addition to the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1J described above.

[0094] The sensor 23 detects obstacles in front of the vehicle 100 using detection light that passes through the outer lens 3, which is provided with a coating layer 6, such as that of a millimeter-wave radar. The sensor 23 is located inside a recess 2a provided on the front side of the housing 2.

[0095] Since the vehicle lighting fixture 1K of this embodiment has the same configuration as the vehicle lighting fixture 1J described above, it is possible to obtain the same effects and advantages as the vehicle lighting fixture 1J described above.

[0096] Furthermore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1K of this embodiment, even if the sensor 23 is placed inside the lamp body 4 as described above, the sensor 23 is not visible due to the covering layer 6 on the front side of the housing 2. Therefore, it is possible to improve the appearance of the vehicle lighting fixture 1K while satisfying its function.

[0097] (11th embodiment) Next, as an eleventh embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lighting device 1L shown in Figure 12 will be described. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1L corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixtures 1A and 1J will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0098] As shown in Figure 12, the vehicle lamp 1L of this embodiment has a configuration in which a color-matched portion 11, which is the same color as the coating layer 6, is provided on the back side of the outer lens 3, in addition to the configuration of the vehicle lamp 1J described above.

[0099] As a result, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1L of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5D is not illuminated, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a by the irradiation of external light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11.

[0100] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1L of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5D is not illuminated, the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the covering layer 6 can be made less noticeable, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not illuminated.

[0101] (12th embodiment) Next, as a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, for example, the vehicle lighting device 1M shown in Figure 13 will be described. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1M corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0102] As shown in Figure 13, the vehicle lighting fixture 1M of this embodiment includes a lighting fixture unit 5E instead of the lighting fixture unit 5A. The lighting fixture unit 5E is an LED display, and has a structure in which multiple LEDs ("subpixels") corresponding to at least three primary colors, red (R), green (G), and blue (B), are arranged in a single light-emitting unit ("pixel"), and these light-emitting units are arranged periodically in a plane.

[0103] As a result, the lighting unit 5E can irradiate the outer lens 3 with light L while variably controlling the color tone and light intensity emitted from each light-emitting unit according to the light emission ratio of each LED.

[0104] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting device 1M of this embodiment, it is possible to emit light (display) any color, including color display, in the light-emitting region E.

[0105] Furthermore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1L of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5E is not displaying anything, the lighting fixture unit 5E emits light L that is the same color as the coating layer 6. This makes the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the coating layer 6 less noticeable, improving the appearance.

[0106] (13th embodiment) Next, as a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention, for example, the vehicle lighting device 1N shown in Figure 14 will be described. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1N corresponding to line segment AA shown in Figure 1. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0107] As shown in Figure 14, the vehicle lighting fixture 1N of this embodiment includes, in the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A described above, a light source 8 that includes multiple LEDs corresponding to the three primary colors red (R), green (G), and blue (B), and the color tone and light intensity of the light L can be variably controlled according to the light emission ratio of each LED.

[0108] The covering layer 6 is a semi-transparent layer that is the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100, and is provided to cover the entire front side of the outer lens 3 without providing an opening 6a. On the other hand, an opaque layer 24 that is the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 is provided on the back side of the outer lens 3, excluding the light-emitting region E.

[0109] As a result, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1N of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not illuminated, the semi-transparent coating layer 6 and the opaque layer 24, which are covered in the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100, give the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 and the outer lens 3 a common appearance, thus creating a sense of design unity.

[0110] Furthermore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1N of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not illuminated, the light L' projected to the outside through the semi-transparent light-emitting region E due to the irradiation of ambient light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11.

[0111] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1N of this embodiment, the light-emitting area E can be made less noticeable when the lighting fixture unit 5A is not illuminated, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not illuminated.

[0112] On the other hand, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1N of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5A is lit, the light emission area E can be made to emit white light by performing color correction on the light L emitted from the light source 8 with respect to the semi-transparent coating layer 6.

[0113] (14th embodiment) Next, as a 14th embodiment of the present invention, for example, the vehicle lighting device 1P shown in Figure 15 will be described. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the vehicle lighting fixture 1P. In the following description, parts equivalent to those of the vehicle lighting fixture 1A will not be described, and the same reference numerals will be used in the drawings.

[0114] As shown in Figure 15, the vehicle lighting device 1P of this embodiment emits white light from a lamp 105 for legal light distribution mounted on the front side of the vehicle 100, and also emits white light from a light-emitting region E provided on the front side of the bumper 103.

[0115] Specifically, this vehicle lighting fixture 1P has a structure in which a lighting unit 5G is positioned inside a lighting body 4A, which is composed of a housing 2A with an open front and an outer lens 3A that covers the opening of the housing 2A.

[0116] The light unit 4A is positioned so that the outer lens 3A faces outward through a gap 106 provided between the hood 102 and the bumper 103A, which form the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100. As a result, the front side of the outer lens 3A forms a continuous surface with the hood 102 and the bumper 103A (exterior 101).

[0117] The luminaire unit 5G includes a plurality of first light sources 8a and second light sources 8b, an inner lens 25 positioned inside the luminaire body 4A to guide the first light L1 emitted from the plurality of first light sources 8a, and a light guide 26 made up of at least a part of the bumper 103A to guide the second light L2 emitted from the plurality of second light sources 8b.

[0118] Multiple first light sources 8a are located on the rear upper surface of the circuit board 9, which extends in the width direction of the vehicle 100, and are arranged in a line along the width direction of the vehicle 100. On the other hand, multiple second light sources 8b are located on the front lower surface of the circuit board 9, which extends in the width direction of the vehicle 100, and are arranged in a line along the width direction of the vehicle 100. The circuit board 9 is mounted on the lower side of the housing 2A.

[0119] The inner lens 25 is made of a light guide such as a transparent resin like polycarbonate or acrylic, or glass. The inner lens 25 extends in the width direction of the vehicle 100 and is positioned above the multiple second light sources 8b.

[0120] The inner lens 25 has a first light guide portion 25a extending upward from a position facing a plurality of second light sources 8b, a second light guide portion 25b extending forward from the tip (upper end) of the first light guide portion 25a, an incident surface 25c located on the base end side (lower end side) of the first light guide portion 25a, an inclined reflective surface 25d located between the first light guide portion 25a and the second light guide portion 25b, and an exit surface 25e located on the tip side (front end side) of the second light guide portion 25b.

[0121] The light guide 26 is composed of a light-transmitting bumper 103A substrate. For example, semi-transparent polypropylene is used as the substrate for the bumper 103A.

[0122] A covering layer 6 is provided on the front side of the light guide 26 (bumper 103A). The covering layer 6 consists of paint or film of the same color as the exterior 101 of the vehicle 100 and is provided to cover the entire surface of the light guide 26 (bumper 103A).

[0123] On the other hand, the coating layer 6 is provided with an open opening 6a corresponding to the light-emitting region E. Furthermore, a colorless, transparent clear topcoat layer 7A is provided over the entire front surface of the light guide 26 (bumper 103A) to protect the coating layer 6.

[0124] The light guide 26 has a thickened portion 26a on the upper end side of the bumper 103A, a fitting recess 26b in which a part of the outer lens 3A is fitted, an incident surface 26c in the fitting recess 26b at a position facing the plurality of first light sources 8a, a plurality of reflection cuts 26d corresponding to the light-emitting region E on the back side of the bumper 103A, and an emission surface 26e on the front side of the bumper 103A.

[0125] In the luminaire unit 5G, the first light L1 emitted upward from multiple first light sources 8a is incident on the first light guide 25a (inner lens 25) from the incident surface 25c. The first light L1 that has entered the first light guide 25a (inner lens 25) is guided toward the inclined reflective surface 25d, and then reflected from this inclined reflective surface 25d toward the second light guide 25b. The first light L1 reflected by the inclined reflective surface 25d is guided through the inside of the second light guide 25b and then emitted out of the second light guide 25b (inner lens 25) from the exit surface 25e.

[0126] As a result, in the vehicle lighting device 1P of this embodiment, it is possible to make the lamp 105 for legal light distribution emit white light in a linear pattern.

[0127] Meanwhile, in the luminaire unit 5G, the second light L2 emitted from multiple second light sources 8b toward the light guide 26 is incident on the interior of the light guide 26 from the incident surface 26c, then guided toward the lower end of the light guide 26, and the second light L2 reflected by multiple reflection cuts 26d is emitted from the exit surface 26e toward the outside of the light guide 26.

[0128] As a result, in the vehicle lighting device 1P of this embodiment, when the lighting device unit 5G (second light source 8b) is lit, the second light L2 irradiated by the lighting device unit 5G is emitted from the opening 6a of the coating layer 6 to the outside of the light guide 26 (bumper 103A), making it possible to emit white light in the light-emitting area E.

[0129] Furthermore, in the vehicle lighting device 1P of this embodiment, a color-matched portion 11, which is the same color as the coating layer 6, is provided on the back side of the light guide 26 (bumper 103A). That is, this color-matched portion 11 is provided so as to cover the back side of the light guide 26 (bumper 103A).

[0130] As a result, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1P of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5G is not illuminated, the light L' projected to the outside through the opening 6a due to the irradiation of external light L' becomes light L' of the same color as the coating layer 6 reflected by the same-color portion 11.

[0131] Therefore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1P of this embodiment, when the lighting fixture unit 5G is not illuminated, the opening 6a (light-emitting area E) of the covering layer 6 can be made less noticeable, thereby improving the appearance when the light is not illuminated.

[0132] Furthermore, in the vehicle lighting fixture 1P of this embodiment, by utilizing a part of the bumper 103A described above as the lighting fixture unit 5G, it is possible to simplify the component configuration and reduce the depth dimension and weight.

[0133] It should be noted that the present invention is not necessarily limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0134] For example, with respect to the light-emitting region E, it is preferable to have a configuration in which a large number of dot-shaped or stripe-shaped fine openings (transparent parts) are arranged within the plane of the light-emitting region E in order to make the boundary with the coating layer 6 described above less noticeable.

[0135] In this case, it is preferable to set the dot diameter and stripe width of the transparent area to approximately 0.1 to 0.2 mm, and the spacing between adjacent transparent areas to approximately 0.3 to 0.5 mm.

[0136] Furthermore, the area ratio of light-emitting parts to non-light-emitting parts within the light-emitting region E is preferably about 1:5 to 1:35 in the case of dots, and preferably about 1:1.5 to 1:5 in the case of stripes.

[0137] Furthermore, the light-emitting region E is calculated by taking the total area of ​​the dots or stripes arranged within that surface as the area of ​​the light-emitting portion, and subtracting the area of ​​the light-emitting portion from the total area as the area of ​​the non-light-emitting portion.

[0138] This makes the boundary between the light-emitting and non-light-emitting parts within the light-emitting area E less noticeable when the light is not illuminated, while allowing the light-emitting area E to be clearly visible when illuminated.

[0139] In the above embodiment, the present invention is illustrated as being applied to a vehicle lighting device mounted on the front side of the vehicle 100 described above, but it is also possible to apply the present invention to a vehicle lighting device mounted on the rear side of the vehicle.

[0140] Furthermore, the light sources 8, 8a, and 8b are not limited to those emitting the white light described above, but may also emit other colored light. In other words, the color of the light emitted by the light sources 8, 8a, and 8b can be changed as appropriate depending on the application of the vehicle lighting, such as to red light or orange light in addition to white light. Moreover, a configuration may be used in which the color tones of light L, L1, and L2 can be variably adjusted using multiple light sources 8, 8a, and 8b with different colored light. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0141] 1A~1P…Vehicle lighting fixture 2,2A…Housing 3,3A…Outer lens 4,4A…Light body 5A~5F…Light fixture unit 6…Coating layer 7…Hard coat layer 8…Light source 8a…First light source 8b…Second light source 9…Circuit board 10…Harness 11…Color-matched part 12…Diffusing lens 13…Anti-reflective part (AR coating) 14…Transmitting layer 15…Anti-reflective part (uneven structure) 16…Anti-reflective part (light-shielding film) 17…Extension (light-shielding material) 18…Inner lens (light guide) 19…Reflector 20…Light-shielding material 21…Reflective layer 22…Light guide (part of outer lens) 23…Sensor 24…Opaque layer 25…Inner lens (light guide) 26…Light guide (part of bumper) 100…Vehicle 101…Exterior 102...Bonnet 103,103A...Bumper 104...Opening L...Light L1...First light L2...Second light L'...External light E...Light-emitting area P1,P2...Display pattern

Claims

1. A vehicle light fixture comprising a housing with an open front and an outer lens covering the opening of the housing, wherein a light unit is arranged inside the light body, The light-emitting region includes a light-emitting area that emits light by emitting light from the front side of the outer lens through the light irradiated by the light fixture unit, The outer lens is provided with a coating layer that covers the front side in the same color as the exterior of the vehicle. The coating layer has an opening that corresponds to the light-emitting region, A vehicle light fixture characterized in that, inside the light fixture body, there is a portion of the same color as the coating layer, which, when the light fixture unit is not illuminated, is projected to the outside through the opening by external light irradiation.

2. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that the same-colored portion is provided in a range that at least overlaps with the opening when the outer lens is viewed from the front.

3. The aforementioned lighting unit comprises a light source and a circuit board on which the light source is mounted. The circuit board is arranged such that the side on which the light source is mounted faces the outer lens. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the portion of the same color is provided on the side of the circuit board on which the light source is mounted.

4. The aforementioned lighting unit comprises a light source and a light guide that guides the light emitted from the light source. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that the portion of the same color is provided on the side of the light guide opposite to the side facing the outer lens, or on the front side of the housing.

5. The aforementioned lighting unit comprises a light source and a reflector that reflects the light emitted from the light source. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that the same-colored portion is located on the light source side and is provided facing the reflective surface of the reflector.

6. The vehicle lamp according to claim 5, characterized in that a reflective layer is provided on the back side of the outer lens, excluding the light-emitting region, which reflects the light reflected by the reflective surface of the reflector back towards the reflector.

7. The aforementioned lighting unit comprises a light source and a light guide, which is composed of at least a part of the outer lens and guides the light emitted from the light source. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that the aforementioned colored portion is provided opposite to the rear side of the outer lens.

8. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that an anti-reflective portion is provided inside the light fixture to prevent light reflected by the same-color portion from being projected to the outside through the opening when the light fixture unit is lit.

9. The aforementioned lighting unit comprises a light source and a circuit board on which the light source is mounted. The anti-reflective portion is composed of an uneven structure provided on the side of the circuit board on which the light source is mounted. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 8, characterized in that the same-colored portion has an uneven shape that reflects the uneven structure while covering the uneven structure.

10. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, further comprising a diffusion lens disposed between the outer lens and the lamp unit, which diffuses the light emitted by the lamp unit toward the outer lens.

11. Inside the lamp body, an anti-reflective portion is provided to prevent light reflected by the same-colored portion from being projected to the outside through the opening when the lamp unit is lit. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 10, characterized in that the anti-reflective portion is provided on the side of the diffusion lens opposite to the side facing the outer lens.

12. The vehicle lamp according to claim 8, characterized in that the anti-reflective portion is provided between the coating layer and the outer lens, or on the back side of the outer lens excluding the light-emitting region.

13. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, further comprising a light-shielding member disposed between the outer lens and the lamp unit, which blocks a portion of the light emitted by the lamp unit.

14. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 13, characterized in that the same-colored portion is provided on the side of the light-shielding member that faces the outer lens.

15. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that the front side of the outer lens forms a continuous surface with the exterior of the vehicle.

16. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer lens constitutes a part of the exterior of the vehicle.

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