Interior lighting system

Abstract

This vehicle interior lighting system provides a way to create a pleasant atmosphere inside the vehicle while driving, even during the daytime, while maintaining a safe driving environment. [Solution] The vehicle interior lighting system 1 is installed in the vehicle's interior 2a and comprises at least one lighting device 3 that emits illumination light, and a control unit 4 that controls the dimming of at least one lighting device 3 when the vehicle is in motion. At least one lighting device 3 includes at least one first lighting device, each configured so that the light-emitting part is not visible to the occupants, and the control unit 4 controls the dimming of at least one lighting device 3 based on the brightness outside the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an in-vehicle lighting system.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, for the interior of a moving body such as an automobile, it is required to be an environment in which passengers can spend comfortably. In particular, in the future, since it is conceivable that passengers including the driver will perform various activities unrelated to driving even while the automobile is in motion due to autonomous driving technology, the interior of the automobile is required to be a living space that is more user-friendly and comfortable to spend in.

[0003] Therefore, conventionally, a technique has been proposed in which a lighting device is installed in the interior of an automobile, and the space in the interior of the automobile is produced by changing the brightness and color of the lighting light emitted from the lighting device (Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, the conventional lighting device in the interior of the automobile was not one that was lit during the daytime (midday) to perform various effects.

[0006] Also, conventionally, a ceiling lamp has been installed on the ceiling of the interior of the automobile as a lighting device in the interior of the automobile. However, in the case of a ceiling lamp, since the brightness of the lighting light is insufficient during the daytime, it is not suitable as a lighting device that is lit during the daytime to perform an effect.

[0007] On the other hand, if the lighting device is lit in the interior of the automobile during driving (while in motion), there is a risk that the direct light from the lighting device will enter the driver's eyes, making it impossible to drive safely.

[0008] This invention was made to solve these problems and aims to provide an in-vehicle lighting system that can create an in-vehicle atmosphere while driving, even during the daytime, while maintaining a safe driving environment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To achieve the above objective, one aspect of the vehicle interior lighting system according to the present invention comprises at least one lighting device installed in the interior of a vehicle and emitting illumination light, and a control unit that controls the dimming of the at least one lighting device when the vehicle is in motion, wherein the at least one lighting device includes at least one first lighting device, each configured so that the light-emitting part is not visible to the occupants, and the control unit controls the dimming of the at least one lighting device based on the brightness outside the vehicle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to create a pleasant interior space inside the vehicle while driving, even during the daytime, while maintaining a safe driving environment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a top view of an automobile with an interior lighting system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of an automobile in an interior lighting system according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are all specific examples of the present invention. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions of components, and connection configurations shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Accordingly, among the components in the following embodiments, those not described in the independent claims representing the highest-level concept of the present invention will be described as optional components.

[0013] Each figure is a schematic diagram and not necessarily a strictly accurate representation. Therefore, the scale and other aspects may not necessarily be consistent across all figures. In each figure, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0014] In this specification, "forward" refers to the direction of travel when the vehicle is moving forward, and "rearward" refers to the direction of travel when the vehicle is moving backward. The right side when the vehicle is moving forward is referred to as "right direction," the left side when the vehicle is moving forward is referred to as "left direction," the ceiling side of the vehicle is referred to as "up" or "upper side," and the floor side of the vehicle is referred to as "down" or "lower side." In this specification, the terms "up" and "down" do not refer to the upward direction (vertically upward) and the downward direction (vertically downward) in absolute spatial perception, but may be used as terms defined by relative positional relationships.

[0015] (Embodiment) First, the configuration of the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a top view of the vehicle 2 in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to the embodiment, and Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the vehicle 2.

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle interior lighting system 1 comprises a vehicle 2 and at least one lighting device 3 installed in the vehicle 2.

[0017] The automobile 2 is an example of a moving body and includes a vehicle having a passenger compartment 2a. The passenger compartment 2a in the automobile 2 is constituted by a plurality of interior trim members. The passenger compartment 2a has, as the plurality of interior trim members, a ceiling 10, a floor 20 (floor), a pillar trim 30, and a door trim 40.

[0018] The vehicle of the automobile 2 has a door 50. The door 50 includes a front door 51 and a rear door 52. By opening and closing the front door 51 or the rear door 52, a passenger can enter or exit the passenger compartment 2a. In addition, each of the front door 51 and the rear door 52 is provided with a window glass.

[0019] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the passenger compartment 2a is provided with a seat 60 which is a seat for a passenger to sit on. Specifically, the passenger compartment 2a is provided with a front seat 61 and a rear seat 62 as the plurality of seats 60. The front seat 61 is a front seat provided in the front of the passenger compartment 2a and has a driver's seat 61a on which a driver sits and a passenger seat 61b located adjacent to the driver's seat 61a. In the present embodiment, since the steering wheel is provided on the right side, the driver's seat 61a is located on the right side and the passenger seat 61b is located on the left side. Further, the rear seat 62 is a rear seat provided in the rear of the passenger compartment 2a. A plurality of passengers, two or three, can sit on the rear seat 62.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 2, the ceiling 10 is a roof trim. Specifically, the ceiling 10 is a headlining. The ceiling 10 is fixed to the roof 2b of the automobile 2. In this case, the ceiling 10 may be directly attached to the inner surface of the roof 2b or may be installed by being suspended from the roof 2b.

[0021] The floor 20 is a floor trim. Specifically, the floor 20 is a floor carpet fixed to a frame constituting the vehicle body skeleton of the automobile 2 (vehicle). Although not shown, a floor mat is laid on the floor 20.

[0022] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pillar trim 30 is composed of a plurality of pillars. Specifically, the pillar trim 30 includes an A pillar 31 which is a front pillar provided beside the windshield, and a B pillar 32 which is a center pillar provided between the front seat 61 and the rear seat 62. Note that the pillar trim 30 may further include a C pillar and a D pillar provided diagonally rearward of the rear seat 62.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the door trim 40 is an inner member that covers the door panels of the front door 51 and the rear door 52. The door trim 40 that constitutes the inner surfaces of the front door 51 and the rear door 52 has concavo-convex portions (concavo-convex structure) of a concavo-convex shape. That is, the concavo-convex portions of the door trim 40 are formed on the inner surface of the door 50. One or more functional parts are provided on the concavo-convex portions of the door trim 40.

[0024] Specifically, the concavo-convex portions of the door trim 40 are provided with, as functional parts, an elbow rest portion, an operation part such as an operation switch (operation button), a cup holder, a door knob, and a storage space. The operation switch is, for example, an opening / closing switch for opening and closing a window glass. Note that various switches other than the opening / closing switch are provided as operation buttons on the front door 51 of the driver's seat 61a.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1, the automobile 2 has a center console 70. The center console 70 is disposed between the driver's seat 61a and the passenger seat 61b. As shown in FIG. 2, the center console 70 extends from an instrument panel 80 provided at the front of the vehicle toward the rear of the vehicle. The front end portion of the center console 70 may be integrally connected to the center portion in the left-right direction of the instrument panel 80.

[0026] The center console 70 is equipped with a shift lever (select lever), control switches, and a console box as molded components. The shift lever is operated by the driver to change the transmission while the vehicle 2 is moving forward or to move the vehicle 2 in reverse. The control switches include a number of switches such as push buttons and dial knobs. Examples of the control switches include a parking button to switch the parking brake (handbrake) on and off, a power button to switch the engine of the vehicle 2 on and off, a lighting button to switch the lighting device 3 on and off, a car audio control switch to operate the car audio system, and a car navigation system control switch to operate the car navigation system. The console box is a storage box with a lid and has a box body and an armrest. The center console 70 may also be equipped with other molded components such as a cup holder, a cigarette lighter socket, a power socket, and a box-shaped recess with an open top.

[0027] Lighting device 3 is an interior lighting device (interior lighting) installed inside the vehicle compartment 2a. In this embodiment, multiple lighting devices 3 are installed inside the vehicle compartment 2a. The light emitted from each lighting device 3 illuminates the space inside the vehicle compartment 2a. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the light emitted from each lighting device 3 does not illuminate the entire space inside the vehicle compartment 2a, but rather illuminates a part of the space inside the vehicle compartment 2a. Therefore, in this embodiment, the entire space inside the vehicle compartment 2a is illuminated by multiple lighting devices 3.

[0028] In Figures 1 and 2, the black squares indicate the positions of each lighting device 3. The areas indicated by dotted hatching represent the areas within the vehicle compartment 2a that are illuminated by the light from each lighting device 3. The areas illuminated by the light from each lighting device 3 do not overlap, but may partially overlap.

[0029] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the multiple lighting devices 3 include ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, and center console lights 3c. In this embodiment, the multiple lighting devices 3 further include seat back lights 3d and sunroof lights 3e. The ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, center console lights 3c, seat back lights 3d, and sunroof lights 3e are installed in different locations within the vehicle interior 2a.

[0030] The ceiling side light 3a is an example of a ceiling light installed in the ceiling 10 of the passenger compartment 2a. Specifically, the ceiling side light 3a is installed at the widthwise end of the ceiling 10 above the door 50. In this embodiment, multiple ceiling side lights 3a are installed in the ceiling 10. Specifically, the ceiling side lights 3a are installed in the ceiling 10 above each of the pair of front doors 51 and above each of the pair of rear doors 52. Therefore, as shown in Figure 1, the automobile 2 has four ceiling side lights 3a installed.

[0031] The ceiling side light 3a directs illumination light toward the door trim 40. Therefore, the light emitted from the ceiling side light 3a illuminates the door trim 40. In this embodiment, the ceiling side light 3a is a spotlight that illuminates illumination light to a specific narrow area. Therefore, the ceiling side light 3a directs illumination light in a spotlight toward the door trim 40. The beam angle of the illumination light emitted from the ceiling side light 3a is smaller than the beam angle of the illumination light emitted from the pillar light 3b.

[0032] The ceiling side light 3a illuminates the functional parts of the door trim 40 so that shadows are cast on the uneven surfaces of the door trim 40. In this embodiment, the ceiling side light 3a illuminates the functional parts of the door trim 40 as well as other parts. For example, the door trim 40 is provided with functional parts such as an armrest, an operating switch, a cup holder, and a door handle, and the ceiling side light 3a illuminates at least one of the armrest, operating switch, cup holder, and door handle. In this embodiment, the ceiling side light 3a illuminates multiple functional parts of the door trim 40 together. Specifically, the ceiling side light 3a illuminates each of the armrest, operating switch, cup holder, and door handle. The ceiling side light 3a may also illuminate each of the multiple functional parts of the door trim 40 in a spotlight.

[0033] In this way, the door trim 40 is illuminated by the light from the ceiling side light 3a, making the door trim 40 brightly lit. Furthermore, the light from the ceiling side light 3a illuminates the uneven surfaces of the door trim 40. This creates shadows in these uneven areas, resulting in a richer, more uplifting atmosphere, thus enhancing the quality of the interior space of the passenger compartment 2a. Additionally, the illumination of functional areas on the door trim 40 allows occupants to easily locate these areas.

[0034] The pillar light 3b is installed on the pillar trim 30 in the passenger compartment 2a. Specifically, the pillar light 3b is installed on the B pillar 32. In this case, the pillar light 3b is preferably installed around the ceiling 10 on the B pillar 32. That is, the pillar light 3b is preferably installed in the upper part of the B pillar 32. Note that the pillar light 3b is installed on each of the opposing pair of B pillars 32. Therefore, as shown in Figure 1, the automobile 2 has two pillar lights 3b installed.

[0035] In this embodiment, the pillar light 3b is an uplight that projects illumination light toward the ceiling 10 inside the vehicle compartment 2a, and is installed with its light-emitting surface facing the ceiling 10. Therefore, the pillar light 3b projects illumination light that illuminates the ceiling 10 inside the vehicle compartment 2a. In other words, direct light from the pillar light 3b is projected onto the ceiling 10. For this reason, the vehicle compartment 2a is not illuminated by direct light from the pillar light 3b, but rather by indirect light obtained by the reflection of light from the pillar light 3b off the ceiling 10. As an example, the pillar light 3b is installed so that its light-emitting surface faces the curved surface at the widthwise end of the ceiling 10, and it projects illumination light toward the curved surface of the ceiling 10. Therefore, the illumination light from the pillar light 3b is reflected by the curved surface of the ceiling 10 and projected into the vehicle compartment 2a as indirect light.

[0036] In this way, by using the pillar lights 3b to reflect the light off the ceiling 10 and project it into the passenger compartment 2a, the space inside the passenger compartment 2a can be given a high-quality feel. Furthermore, a bright and open lighting space can be obtained.

[0037] The center console light 3c is installed on the center console 70 inside the passenger compartment 2a. Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the center console light 3c is installed in the console box 71 located on the center console 70.

[0038] The center console light 3c projects illumination light toward the center console 70. In other words, the center console light 3c projects illumination light that illuminates the center console 70. Specifically, the center console light 3c projects light toward the side. For example, the center console light 3c projects light toward the front of the vehicle. As a result, a part of the center console 70 is illuminated by the illumination light projected from the center console light 3c. In this case, the illumination light from the center console light 3c illuminates the control switches provided on the center console 70. For example, the illumination light from the center console light 3c illuminates the side brake control unit (parking button), the car audio control switches, and the car navigation system control switches. The illumination light from the center console light 3c may illuminate not only the control switches but also other structures provided on the center console 70, such as the shift lever and cup holders. Furthermore, the illumination light from the center console light 3c may illuminate not only the center console 70 but also the lower part of the instrument panel 80.

[0039] In this way, the center console light 3c illuminates the center console 70, casting shadows on the contoured parts such as the shift lever and control switches, thereby emphasizing the sense of shadow on the center console 70. As a result, the contours of the center console 70 can be made to stand out with the illumination, creating a rich sense of excitement through the shadows cast on the center console 70.

[0040] The seat backlight 3d is installed on the back of the front seat 61 of the automobile 2 (vehicle). Specifically, the seat backlight 3d is installed on the back of the backrest portion of the front seat 61 (the side facing the rear seat 62). In this embodiment, the seat backlight 3d is installed on both the driver's seat 61a and the passenger seat 61b. Therefore, the automobile 2 has two seat backlights 3d installed.

[0041] Each seat backlight 3d illuminates the back of the front seat 61. In other words, the illumination emitted from the seat backlight 3d illuminates the back of the front seat 61. The seat backlight 3d may also illuminate the rear seat 62. In this case, when an occupant is seated in the rear seat 62, the seat backlight 3d illuminates the occupant seated in the rear seat 62.

[0042] Furthermore, while the seat backlight 3d is a spot light that emits a spot beam of light, it may also be a long, linear light. If the seat backlight 3d is a linear light, it extends in the width direction of the front seat 61.

[0043] The sunroof light 3e is an example of a ceiling light installed on the ceiling 10 of an automobile 2 (vehicle). The sunroof light 3e is installed near a sunroof (not shown) provided on the ceiling of the automobile 2. In this embodiment, the sunroof light 3e is installed on each side of the sunroof in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, the automobile 2 has two sunroof lights 3e installed.

[0044] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sunroof light 3e is a long, linear illumination. Specifically, each of the two sunroof lights 3e extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle on the side of the sunroof.

[0045] The sunroof light 3e emits illumination light in the vehicle width direction. The illumination light emitted from the sunroof light 3e may travel toward the floor 20. The illumination light emitted from the sunroof light 3e may also illuminate the ceiling 10. In this embodiment, since the sunroof light 3e is a long-length line light, the illumination light emitted from the sunroof light 3e is long-length. Note that the sunroof light 3e does not have to be a line light.

[0046] Although not shown in the diagram, the passenger compartment 2a is equipped with a front room light (front room lamp), a rear room light (rear room lamp), footlights (foot lamps), and door trim lights, just like a typical automobile.

[0047] The front and rear room lights are examples of ceiling lights installed in the ceiling 10 of the passenger compartment 2a. The front and rear room lights are installed in the center of the ceiling 10 in the width direction. The rear room light is installed behind the front room light and above the rear seat 62. Footlights are installed below the instrument panel 80 and illuminate the area around the occupants' feet. Door trim lights are installed on the door trim 40 and illuminate the area around the door trim 40.

[0048] The front dome light, rear dome light, footlights, and door trim lights primarily illuminate a portion of the space within the passenger compartment 2a. Therefore, when any of the front dome light, rear dome light, footlights, or door trim lights are illuminated, the occupants of the vehicle 2 can search for something they have dropped in the vehicle 2 or perform tasks with their hands.

[0049] On the other hand, the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, center console lights 3c, seat back lights 3d, and sunroof lights 3e primarily illuminate the space inside the passenger compartment 2a. In other words, the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, center console lights 3c, seat back lights 3d, and sunroof lights 3e illuminate the space around where they are installed. The ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, center console lights 3c, seat back lights 3d, and sunroof lights 3e may also be turned on to perform tasks such as searching for something dropped in the car 2 or operating a smartphone.

[0050] The illumination range of the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, center console lights 3c, seat back lights 3d, and sunroof lights 3e can be controlled by a smartphone held by the occupant or by an operation switch located within the occupant's reach in the vehicle 2.

[0051] Each of the multiple lighting devices 3 is a lighting fixture having a light source (not shown) and emits illumination light. The light source used in each lighting device 3 is, for example, an LED light source composed of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Therefore, each lighting device 3 is an LED lighting device. The LED light source has, for example, a mounting substrate such as a PCB substrate and one or more LED elements mounted on the mounting substrate. Each lighting device 3 has a housing that houses the LED light source, and the light emitted from the LED light source passes through an opening in the housing and illuminates a predetermined illumination area.

[0052] The illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is white light. That is, the illumination light emitted from the LED light source of each lighting device 3 is white light. In this embodiment, the color of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is, for example, incandescent, but is not limited to this. The illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 may have a predetermined color temperature within the range of 2500K to 7000K. The color temperatures of the illumination light emitted from multiple lighting devices 3 may all be the same, or they may all be different. Also, some of the multiple lighting devices 3 may emit illumination light of the same color temperature, while others emit illumination light of different color temperatures. For example, the color of the illumination light emitted by the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, center console lights 3c, and seat back lights 3d may be incandescent (for example, with a color temperature of 2500K to 3200K), and the color of the illumination light emitted by the sunroof light 3e may be daylight (for example, with a color temperature of 5700K to 7000K). Furthermore, the color of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is not limited to white, but may also be a color such as red, green, or blue.

[0053] Each lighting device 3 includes a light-emitting section having a light-emitting surface on its outer surface. The light-emitting section is a light-transmitting cover through which light emitted from the light source passes, an opening such as a slit through which light emitted from the light source exits, or the light source itself.

[0054] In this embodiment, the center console light 3c, seat back light 3d, and sunroof light 3e each have a translucent cover as an outer casing member. In this case, the translucent cover becomes the light-emitting part, and the outer surface of the translucent cover becomes the light-emitting surface. The translucent covers of each of the center console light 3c, seat back light 3d, and sunroof light 3e are all exposed inside the vehicle compartment 2a.

[0055] However, the center console light 3c is designed so that the light-emitting cover (light-emitting part) cannot be directly seen by an occupant seated in the seat 60 inside the passenger compartment 2a. In other words, the center console light 3c is a glare-free light configured so that the light-emitting part is not visible to the occupant.

[0056] Furthermore, with regard to the seat backlight 3d and sunroof light 3e, occupants seated in the seat 60 in the passenger compartment 2a can see the translucent cover (light emitting part), which is the outer casing component.

[0057] On the other hand, the ceiling side lights 3a and pillar lights 3b do not have a light-transmitting cover, and the structure is such that the light-emitting part is located in a recessed position within a cylindrical housing (e.g., a cone), with a light-shielding plate having an opening that serves as the light-emitting part or a light source that serves as the light-emitting part. As a result, the light-emitting parts (openings or light sources) of the ceiling side lights 3a and pillar lights 3b cannot be directly seen by occupants seated in the seats 60 in the passenger compartment 2a. Therefore, the ceiling side lights 3a and pillar lights 3b are glareless lights configured so that the light-emitting parts are not visible to occupants. Specifically, the ceiling side light 3a is a glareless downlight, and the pillar light 3b is a glareless uplight.

[0058] Thus, with respect to the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, and center console light 3c, the illumination light does not directly enter the occupants' eyes, thus providing a comfortable lighting environment within the passenger compartment 2a. Furthermore, because the light does not directly enter the driver's eyes, the driver can operate the vehicle 2 safely.

[0059] Next, the control of the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3 will be described. The lighting device 3 is controlled by the control unit 4. The control unit 4 controls the dimming of at least one lighting device 3 at a predetermined, pre-set timing. This allows the lighting atmosphere inside the vehicle compartment 2a to be changed. In this embodiment, the control unit 4 changes the lighting atmosphere inside the vehicle compartment 2a by controlling the dimming of each of the multiple lighting devices 3 at a predetermined, pre-set timing.

[0060] The control unit 4 includes, for example, a dimming circuit that controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3. As an example, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 using a PWM dimming method. Therefore, the LED light source of each lighting device 3 is controlled by a PWM dimming signal.

[0061] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the control unit 4 is provided in the automobile 2. The control unit 4 may be provided in any one of the multiple lighting devices 3, or in each of the multiple lighting devices 3.

[0062] Furthermore, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of each of the multiple lighting devices 3 according to a preset lighting control pattern. In other words, by controlling the dimming of the multiple lighting devices 3, a pre-set lighting effect is performed. In this case, the illumination light emitted from each of the multiple lighting devices 3 is controlled in conjunction. That is, the illumination light emitted from each of the multiple lighting devices 3 is controlled by the control unit 4 to be synchronized.

[0063] The following describes the mode of dimming control for multiple lighting devices 3 installed in the passenger compartment 2a of automobile 2. In the following, 100% brightness of the lighting light refers to the case where the brightness of the lighting light emitted from the lighting device 3 is at its maximum (dimming rate 100%), and 0% brightness of the lighting light refers to the case where the lighting device 3 is turned off. The brightness of the lighting light refers to the light output of the lighting device 3, and can be expressed, for example, in luminous flux (lumens: lm) or luminance (candela: cd).

[0064] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of at least one lighting device 3 based on the brightness outside the vehicle when the automobile 2 (vehicle) is in motion (i.e., while driving). In this embodiment, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 installed at different locations inside the vehicle interior 2a based on the brightness outside the vehicle when the automobile 2 is in motion.

[0065] In this embodiment, the multiple lighting devices 3 controlled by the control unit 4 include a ceiling side light 3a which is both a downlight and a spotlight, a pillar light 3b which is an uplight, and a center console light 3c.

[0066] These multiple lighting devices 3 illuminate at brightness levels corresponding to nighttime and daytime while the vehicle 2 is in motion (driving). The control unit 4 can determine whether it is nighttime or daytime based on the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor mounted on the vehicle 2. For example, the control unit 4 determines it is daytime if the brightness outside the vehicle is higher than a predetermined illuminance, and determines it is nighttime if the brightness outside the vehicle is lower than a predetermined illuminance.

[0067] Furthermore, even during the daytime, the multiple lighting devices 3 illuminate at a brightness level appropriate to the ambient light conditions outside the vehicle.

[0068] Specifically, the multiple lighting devices 3 are dimmed according to scenes with different ambient light levels outside the vehicle while it is in motion, as shown in Table 1 below. As shown in Table 1, there are, for example, five scenes with different ambient light levels outside the vehicle while it is in motion.

[0069] [Table 1]

[0070] The first scene depicts a situation where the outside brightness of the car is equivalent to nighttime. On the other hand, scenes 2 through 5 depict situations where the outside brightness of the car is equivalent to daytime.

[0071] The second scene is one where the brightness outside the car is the same as the brightness of the first daytime scene. The second scene is, for example, a sunny day.

[0072] The third scene is one in which the brightness outside the car is dimmer than the first daytime brightness but brighter than the nighttime brightness, which is the second daytime brightness. The third scene is, for example, on an overcast day or at dusk.

[0073] The fourth scene is when sunlight enters the passenger compartment 2a through the side window of car 2 (vehicle). The fourth scene is, for example, when sunlight shines in through the left or right side window.

[0074] The fifth scene is one in which there are large fluctuations in the brightness outside the car. For example, the fifth scene is when passing through multiple tunnels intermittently or passing between clusters of buildings.

[0075] The control unit 4 then controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 so that, during the first scene (nighttime), the brightness of the lighting is dimmer than the brightness of the lighting during the second scene (sunny day) and the third scene (cloudy day).

[0076] Specifically, in the first scene, the brightness of the ceiling side light 3a is controlled to 20%, the brightness of the pillar light 3b is controlled to 50%, and the brightness of the center console light 3c is controlled to 20%. Thus, in the first scene, the brightness of the pillar light 3b, which is an uplight, should be brighter than the brightness of the ceiling side light 3a and the center console light 3c.

[0077] By controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner during the first scene (nighttime), the driver can concentrate on driving. In addition, even in dim light inside the passenger compartment 2a, the faces of passengers can be seen, providing a sense of security to the occupants.

[0078] Furthermore, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 so that the brightness of the lighting is brighter than the brightness of the lighting in the first scene (nighttime) during the second scene (sunny day).

[0079] Specifically, in the second scene, the ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 100% brightness, the pillar light 3b is dimmed to 100% brightness, and the center console light 3c is dimmed to 100% brightness. In other words, in the second scene, the ceiling side light 3a, pillar light 3b, and center console light 3c should all be set to their maximum brightness.

[0080] In the second scenario (sunny weather), controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner makes the interior of the vehicle compartment 2a as bright as possible, giving the occupants a sense of openness. Furthermore, by making the interior of the vehicle compartment 2a as bright as possible, the difference in brightness between the outside and inside of the vehicle compartment 2a is reduced, giving the occupants a sense of continuity between the outside and inside of the vehicle compartment 2a. In addition, it is possible to suppress the annoyance caused by changes in brightness while driving.

[0081] Furthermore, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 so that, in the third scene (cloudy weather), the brightness of the lighting is brighter than the brightness of the lighting in the first scene (nighttime) and dimmer than the brightness of the lighting in the second scene (sunny weather).

[0082] Specifically, in the third scene, the ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 75% of its normal brightness, the pillar light 3b is dimmed to 75% of its normal brightness, and the center console light 3c is dimmed to 75% of its normal brightness. In this way, in the third scene, the ceiling side light 3a, pillar light 3b, and center console light 3c should all be set to the same brightness.

[0083] In the third scenario (overcast weather), controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner makes it possible to make the interior of the vehicle 2a and the exterior equally bright, thus giving the occupants a sense of openness. It also reduces the annoyance caused by changes in brightness while driving.

[0084] Furthermore, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 so that, in the fourth scene (when sunlight shines in), the brightness of the lighting is brighter than the brightness of the lighting in the first scene (nighttime) and dimmer than the brightness of the lighting in the second scene (sunny day).

[0085] Specifically, in the fourth scene where sunlight enters from the left, the right ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 75% brightness, and the left ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 100% brightness. Similarly, the right pillar light 3b is dimmed to 75% brightness, and the left pillar light 3b is dimmed to 100% brightness. The center console light 3c is also dimmed to 75% brightness. Thus, in the fourth scene, the ceiling side lights 3a and pillar lights 3b located on the side opposite to the sunlight should be dimmed compared to the ceiling side lights 3a and pillar lights 3b located on the side of the sunlight. Furthermore, the center console light 3c should be dimmed compared to the ceiling side lights 3a and pillar lights 3b located on the side of the sunlight.

[0086] By controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner during the fourth scene (when sunlight shines in), the entire interior of the vehicle cabin 2a can be made as bright as the outside, giving the occupants a sense of openness. In addition, it is possible to suppress the annoyance caused by changes in brightness while driving.

[0087] Furthermore, when the fifth scene occurs (when there is a large change in the flashing of the light), the control unit 4 controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 so that the brightness of the lighting is brighter than the brightness of the lighting in the first scene (nighttime) and dimmer than the brightness of the lighting in the second scene (sunny day).

[0088] Specifically, in the fifth scene, the ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 75% brightness, the pillar light 3b is dimmed to 75% brightness, and the center console light 3c is dimmed to 75% brightness. Thus, in the third scene, the ceiling side light 3a, pillar light 3b, and center console light 3c should be set to the same brightness.

[0089] By controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner during the fifth scene (when the flashing of light is significant), the annoyance caused by changes in brightness while driving can be suppressed.

[0090] Table 1 describes the case where only the first lighting device (ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, center console light 3c), which is a glareless light configured so that the light-emitting part is not visible to the occupants, is dimmed, but this is not the only case.

[0091] Specifically, the multiple dimmable lighting devices 3 may include not only first lighting devices that are glareless lights (ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, and center console lights 3c), but also second lighting devices configured so that the light emitters are visible to the occupants. In this embodiment, the second lighting devices configured so that the light emitters are visible to the occupants include seat back lights 3d and sunroof lights 3e, which are ceiling lights.

[0092] In this case, the multiple lighting devices 3 are dimmed according to the different scenes of ambient light outside the vehicle while it is in motion, as shown in Table 2 below. Specifically, the control unit 4 performs dimming control of the multiple lighting devices 3 according to the five scenes, as described above.

[0093] [Table 2]

[0094] Similarly, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 so that, in the first scene (nighttime), the brightness of the lighting is dimmer than in the second scene (sunny day) and the third scene (cloudy day).

[0095] Specifically, in the first scene, the brightness of the ceiling side light 3a is controlled to 20%, the brightness of the pillar light 3b is controlled to 50%, the brightness of the center console light 3c is controlled to 20%, the brightness of the seat back light 3d is controlled to 20%, and the brightness of the sunroof light 3e is controlled to 20%. Thus, in the first scene, the brightness of the pillar light 3b should be brighter than the brightness of the ceiling side light 3a, center console light 3c, seat back light 3d, and sunroof light 3e.

[0096] In the first scene (nighttime), controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner allows the driver to concentrate on driving. Furthermore, even in dimly lit cabin 2a, the faces of passengers are visible, providing a sense of security to the occupants. In addition, the addition of seat backlights 3d and sunroof lights 3e allows for even greater brightness inside cabin 2a. This further enhances the sense of security for the occupants.

[0097] Furthermore, in the second scene (sunny day), the control unit 4 controls the dimming of the multiple lighting devices 3 in the same manner as described above, so that the brightness of the lighting is brighter than the brightness of the lighting in the first scene (nighttime).

[0098] Specifically, in the second scene, the ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 100% brightness, the pillar light 3b is dimmed to 100% brightness, the center console light 3c is dimmed to 100% brightness, the seat back light 3d is dimmed to 100% brightness, and the sunroof light 3e is dimmed to 100% brightness. In other words, in the second scene, the ceiling side light 3a, pillar light 3b, center console light 3c, seat back light 3d, and sunroof light 3e should all be set to their maximum brightness.

[0099] In the second scene (sunny weather), controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner makes the interior of the vehicle interior 2a as bright as possible, giving occupants a sense of openness. Also, by making the interior of the vehicle interior 2a as bright as possible, the difference in brightness between the outside and the inside of the vehicle interior 2a is reduced, giving occupants a sense of connection between the outside and the inside of the vehicle interior 2a. In particular, the addition of seat backlights 3d and sunroof lights 3e makes the interior of the vehicle interior 2a even brighter, further reducing the difference in brightness between the outside and the inside of the vehicle interior 2a. This improves the sense of connection between the outside and the inside of the vehicle interior 2a. Moreover, by installing the sunroof lights 3e near the sunroof, which serves as an intake for natural light, the sense of connection with the outside and the sense of openness can be further enhanced. Furthermore, controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 as described above in the second scene can also suppress the annoyance caused by changes in brightness while driving.

[0100] Furthermore, in the third scene (cloudy weather), the control unit 4 controls the dimming of the multiple lighting devices 3 in the same manner as described above, so that the brightness of the lighting is brighter than the brightness of the lighting in the first scene (nighttime) and dimmer than the brightness of the lighting in the second scene (sunny weather).

[0101] Specifically, in the third scene, the ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 75% brightness, the pillar light 3b is dimmed to 75% brightness, the center console light 3c is dimmed to 75% brightness, the seat back light 3d is dimmed to 75% brightness, and the sunroof light 3e is dimmed to 75% brightness. Thus, in the third scene, the ceiling side light 3a, pillar light 3b, center console light 3c, seat back light 3d, and sunroof light 3e should be set to the same brightness.

[0102] In the third scenario (overcast weather), controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner makes it possible to make the interior of the vehicle 2a and the exterior equally bright, thus giving the occupants a sense of openness. It also reduces the annoyance caused by changes in brightness while driving.

[0103] Furthermore, in the fourth scene (when sunlight shines in), the control unit 4 controls the dimming of the multiple lighting devices 3 in the same manner as described above, so that the brightness of the lighting is brighter than the brightness of the lighting in the first scene (nighttime) and dimmer than the brightness of the lighting in the second scene (sunny day).

[0104] Specifically, in the fourth scene where sunlight shines in from the left, the right ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 75% brightness, and the left ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 100% brightness. The right pillar light 3b is dimmed to 75% brightness, and the left pillar light 3b is dimmed to 100% brightness. The center console light 3c and seat back light 3d are also dimmed to 75% brightness. The right sunroof light 3e is dimmed to 75% brightness, and the left sunroof light 3e is dimmed to 100% brightness.

[0105] Thus, in the fourth scene, the brightness of the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, and sunroof lights 3e located on the opposite side from where sunlight enters should be dimmer than that of the ceiling side lights 3a and pillar lights 3b located on the side where sunlight enters. Furthermore, the brightness of the center console lights 3c and seat back lights 3d should be dimmer than that of the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, and sunroof lights 3e located on the side where sunlight enters.

[0106] By controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner during the fourth scene (when sunlight shines in), the entire interior of the vehicle cabin 2a can be made as bright as the outside, giving the occupants a sense of openness. In addition, it is possible to suppress the annoyance caused by changes in brightness while driving.

[0107] Furthermore, when the fifth scene occurs (when the flashing of the light is large), the control unit 4 controls the dimming of the multiple lighting devices 3 in the same manner as described above, so that the brightness of the lighting is brighter than the brightness of the lighting in the first scene (nighttime) and dimmer than the brightness of the lighting in the second scene (sunny day).

[0108] Specifically, in the fifth scene, the ceiling side light 3a is dimmed to 75% brightness, the pillar light 3b is dimmed to 75% brightness, the center console light 3c is dimmed to 75% brightness, the seat back light 3d is dimmed to 75% brightness, and the sunroof light 3e is dimmed to 75% brightness. Thus, in the fifth scene, the ceiling side light 3a, pillar light 3b, center console light 3c, seat back light 3d, and sunroof light 3e should be set to the same brightness.

[0109] By controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 in this manner during the fifth scene (when the flashing of light is significant), the annoyance caused by changes in brightness while driving can be suppressed.

[0110] As described above, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment, when the automobile 2 (vehicle) is in motion, dimming control is performed on at least one lighting device 3 based on the brightness outside the vehicle. In this embodiment, dimming control is performed on multiple lighting devices 3 installed at different locations inside the vehicle interior 2a based on the brightness outside the vehicle when the automobile 2 is in motion. This makes it possible to create a pleasant atmosphere inside the vehicle interior 2a even during the daytime while driving.

[0111] Furthermore, the multiple dimmable lighting devices 3 include glareless lights configured so that the light emitters are not visible to the occupants. As a result, direct light from the glareless lighting devices 3 does not enter the driver's eyes, allowing the driver to safely operate the vehicle 2.

[0112] Thus, the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment makes it possible to create a pleasant atmosphere inside the vehicle interior 2a while driving, even during the daytime, while maintaining a safe driving environment. Moreover, by controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 based on the brightness outside the vehicle, the inconvenience caused by changes in brightness while driving can be reduced.

[0113] In this embodiment, the multiple lighting devices 3 controlled by the control unit 4 include, as a first lighting device which is a glareless light configured so that the light emitter is not visible to the occupants, a ceiling side light 3a which is both a downlight and a spotlight, a pillar light 3b which is an uplight, and a center console light 3c.

[0114] Although the interior of the passenger compartment 2a tends to be dark even during the day, by using pillar lights 3b, which are uplights, as the lighting device 3, the pillar lights 3b can illuminate the ceiling 10. This allows a wide area inside the passenger compartment 2a to be brightly lit, giving the occupants a sense of spaciousness.

[0115] (modified version) The vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to the present invention has been described above based on embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments.

[0116] For example, in the above embodiment, the case in which the multiple lighting devices 3 are dimmed while the automobile 2 is in motion was described, but the invention is not limited to this. In other words, the multiple lighting devices 3 may also be dimmed while the automobile 2 is stopped. Specifically, when the automobile 2 is stopped, the multiple lighting devices 3 can be dimmed as shown in Table 1 or Table 2 above.

[0117] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the seat backlight 3d and sunroof light 3e were configured so that the light-emitting part was visible to the occupant, but this is not limited to this configuration. In other words, the seat backlight 3d and sunroof light 3e may be glareless lights configured so that the light-emitting part is not visible to the occupant.

[0118] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, and center console lights 3c were glareless lights configured so that the light-emitting parts were not visible to the occupants, but this is not limited to this. In other words, the ceiling side lights 3a, pillar lights 3b, and center console lights 3c may be configured so that the light-emitting parts are visible to the occupants.

[0119] Furthermore, although dimming control was performed on multiple lighting devices 3 in the above embodiment, this is not limited to this. For example, dimming control may be performed on only one lighting device 3.

[0120] Furthermore, although only dimming control was performed for each lighting device 3 in the above embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. For example, both dimming control and color temperature control may be performed for each lighting device 3. This allows not only to change the brightness of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3, but also to change the color temperature of the illumination light. This improves the lighting effect inside the vehicle compartment 2a. In addition, although the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3 in the above embodiment was white light, the invention is not limited to this.

[0121] Furthermore, although the light source of the lighting device 3 in the above embodiment was an LED light source, it is not limited to this. For example, the light source of the lighting device 3 may be an existing light source such as a fluorescent lamp, xenon lamp, or halogen lamp. However, by using an LED light source for the lighting device 3, power consumption can be reduced, and the lighting device 3 can be lit with a DC power supply.

[0122] Furthermore, although the above embodiment uses automobile 2 as an example of a mobile body, it is not limited to this. Specifically, the mobile body may include vehicles other than automobiles, such as railway cars, as long as it has a passenger compartment.

[0123] Furthermore, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to the above embodiments and their respective modifications that a person skilled in the art could conceive, as well as forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of the above embodiments and their respective modifications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the present invention also includes arbitrary combinations of one or more components from each of the multiple claims described in the claims of the present application. Furthermore, the present invention also includes all forms obtained by combining all the claims included in the multiple claims or multiple-multi-claims when the cited claims described in the claims of the present application are made into multiple claims or multiple-multi-claims that quote any multiple claims (for example, when each claim is made into a multiple claim or multiple-multi-claim that quotes all of the higher-level claims), in which case all forms obtained by combinations of all the claims included in that multiple claim or multiple-multi-claim are also included in the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0124] 1. Interior lighting system 2a cabin 3. Lighting equipment 3a Ceiling side lights (spotlights, ceiling lights) 3b Pillar Light (Uplight) 3c Center Console Light 3D seat backlight 3e Sunroof Light (Ceiling Light) 4. Control Unit 10 Ceiling 61 Front Seats 70 Center Console

Claims

1. A lighting device installed inside the vehicle's interior that emits illumination light, The vehicle comprises a control unit that controls the dimming of at least one of the lighting devices while the vehicle is in motion, The aforementioned at least one lighting device includes at least one first lighting device, each configured such that the light-emitting part is not visible to the crew, The control unit controls the dimming of at least one lighting device based on the brightness outside the vehicle. Interior lighting system.

2. If we define the first scene as the brightness outside the vehicle being the brightness of nighttime, the second scene as the brightness outside the vehicle being the brightness of first daytime, and the third scene as the brightness outside the vehicle being the brightness of second daytime, which is darker than the brightness of first daytime and brighter than the brightness of nighttime, The control unit, During the second scene, the brightness of the illumination light is controlled to make it brighter than the brightness of the illumination light during the first scene. In the third scene, the brightness of the illumination light is controlled to be brighter than the brightness of the illumination light in the first scene and dimmer than the brightness of the illumination light in the second scene. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 1.

3. If we consider the fourth scene to be when sunlight enters the vehicle's interior through the side windows, The control unit controls the dimming of at least one lighting device so that, in the fourth scene, the brightness of the lighting light is brighter than the brightness of the lighting light in the first scene and dimmer than the brightness of the lighting light in the second scene. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 2.

4. If we define the fifth scene as the time when the flickering of the brightness outside the vehicle is significant, The control unit controls the dimming of at least one lighting device so that, in the fifth scene, the brightness of the lighting light is brighter than the brightness of the lighting light in the first scene and dimmer than the brightness of the lighting light in the second scene. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned at least one lighting device is a plurality of lighting devices installed at different locations within the vehicle interior. The control unit controls the dimming of the plurality of lighting devices based on the brightness outside the vehicle. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The at least one first lighting device includes a center console light that projects illumination light toward the center console in the vehicle interior, a spotlight installed on the ceiling of the vehicle, and an uplight that projects illumination light toward the ceiling of the vehicle. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 5.

7. The at least one lighting device includes at least one second lighting device, each configured such that its light-emitting portion is visible to the occupants. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 6.

8. The at least one second lighting device includes a seat back light installed on the back of the front seat of the vehicle and a ceiling light installed on the ceiling of the vehicle. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned ceiling light is a sunroof light installed near the sunroof provided on the ceiling of the vehicle. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 8.

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