Vehicle lighting

Abstract

The present invention provides a vehicle lighting device that emits light that contributes to the light distribution of a lamp having a predetermined function, while illuminating the entire device within a predetermined light-emitting area to enhance its aesthetic appeal. [Solution] The vehicle light fixture comprises a first light source and a light guide that guides and emits light from the first light source. The light guide has a first rod-shaped light guide portion having a first end into which light from the first light source is incident, and which guides the light incident from the first light source and emits it in a first direction after internal reflection, and a plate-shaped light guide portion that extends from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion and guides the light incident from the first rod-shaped light guide portion and emits it in a second direction different from the first direction after internal reflection. The plate-shaped light guide portion widens in the direction extending from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion as it moves away from the first end of the first rod-shaped light guide portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicle lamps.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lamp unit including a light guide formed of two rod-shaped light guide portions and a plate-shaped light guide portion arranged to connect the peripheral surfaces thereof. The light emitted from the light source is guided through the inside of the rod-shaped light guide portion and the plate-shaped light guide portion and emitted forward of the lamp, forming a light distribution as a lamp having a predetermined function such as a clearance lamp.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in such a lamp unit having a light guide, while emitting light contributing to the light distribution of a lamp having a predetermined function, it is desired to light up in a predetermined light-emitting region to enhance the design property.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a vehicle lamp capable of enhancing the design property by lighting up in a predetermined light-emitting region while emitting light contributing to the light distribution of a lamp having a predetermined function.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A vehicle lamp according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first light source, a light guide that guides and emits the light from the first light source, and the light guide A first rod-shaped light guide portion having a first end into which light from the first light source is incident, guides the light incident from the first light source and reflects it internally to emit it in a first direction, The present invention provides a plate-shaped light guide portion that extends from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion, guides the light incident from the first rod-shaped light guide portion, and reflects it internally to emit it in a second direction different from the first direction, The plate-shaped light guide portion widens in a direction extending from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion as it moves away from the first end of the first rod-shaped light guide portion.

[0007] With this configuration, some of the light guided within the first rod-shaped light guide is emitted in the first direction, contributing to the light distribution of a lamp with a predetermined function. Light entering the plate-shaped light guide from the first rod-shaped light guide spreads throughout the plate-shaped light guide and is emitted in the second direction, causing the light guide to appear lit when the luminaire unit is viewed from the outside. Therefore, it is possible to emit light that contributes to the light distribution of a lamp with a predetermined function while illuminating a predetermined light-emitting area to enhance the design. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a vehicle lighting device that emits light that contributes to the light distribution of a lamp having a predetermined function, while illuminating a predetermined light-emitting area to enhance its design. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates the configuration of a vehicle lighting device according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This illustrates the configuration of the third lighting unit. [Figure 3] This illustrates the various elements that make up the third lighting unit. [Figure 4] This illustrates the configuration of a light guide as seen from the side from which light is emitted. [Figure 5] Figure 4 illustrates the configuration of the light guide as seen from the back. [Figure 6] Figure 4 illustrates the configuration of a cross-section along line VI-VI, viewed from the direction of the arrow. [Figure 7] Figure 4 illustrates the configuration of a cross-section along line VII-VII, viewed from the direction of the arrow. [Figure 8] Figure 4 illustrates the configuration of a cross-section along line VIII-VIII as viewed from the direction of the arrow. [Figure 9] An example of the configuration of the light guide in a modified case is shown. [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates the process of fixing the first substrate, the second substrate, and the code component to the base component. [Figure 11] This diagram illustrates a configuration in which the first substrate, the second substrate, and the code component are fixed to the base component. [Figure 12] This is a diagram illustrating the process of attaching the light guide to the reflector. [Figure 13] This is a diagram illustrating the process of attaching the base component to the reflector. [Figure 14] This example illustrates a configuration in which the first end of the light guide is fixed to the base member. [Figure 15] This example illustrates a configuration in which the reflector's fixing part and the third fixing part of the base member are fixed together with a lance. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] While referring to the attached drawings, examples of embodiments will be described in detail below. In the attached drawings, arrow F indicates the forward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow B indicates the rearward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow U indicates the upward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow D indicates the downward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow R indicates the rightward direction of the illustrated structure. Arrow L indicates the leftward direction of the illustrated structure. These directions are relative directions set for the vehicle lamp 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. Expressions related to these directions are intended to be used for convenience of explanation and are not intended to limit the posture during actual use of the structure. In this specification, these directions are the same as the directions of the vehicle on which the vehicle lamp 100 is mounted. That is, the front-rear direction of the vehicle lamp 100 is the front-rear direction of the vehicle, the left-right direction of the vehicle lamp 100 is the left-right direction of the vehicle, and the up-down direction of the vehicle lamp 100 is the up-down direction of the vehicle.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a front view illustrating the configuration of the vehicle lamp 100 according to the present embodiment. The vehicle lamp 100 is a combination lamp mounted on the left and right ends of the front part of the vehicle. The vehicle lamp 100 has functions of, for example, a headlamp, a turn signal lamp, a clearance lamp, and a daytime running lamp. FIG. 1 illustrates the configuration of a combination lamp mounted on the right end of the front part of the vehicle as the vehicle lamp 100. Note that the combination lamp on the left end of the vehicle has a structure symmetrical to the left and right with the combination lamp on the right end of the vehicle, and its description is omitted.

[0012] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the vehicle lamp 100 includes a housing 101 and a light-transmitting cover 102 attached to an opening of the housing 101. A first lamp unit 103, a second lamp unit 104, and a third lamp unit 105 are arranged in a lamp chamber formed by the housing 101 and the light-transmitting cover 102.

[0013] The first lighting unit 103 is a lighting unit that functions as a headlamp. In the first lighting unit 103, light emitted from the light source is directed forward of the vehicle by optical components such as a reflector and lens, thereby forming a high beam or low beam.

[0014] The second lighting unit 104 is a lighting unit that functions as a turn signal lamp, a clearance lamp, and a daytime running lamp. In the second lighting unit 104, for example, light emitted from a light source is guided within a light guide and emitted forward of the vehicle, thereby forming the light distribution for the turn signal lamp, clearance lamp, and daytime running lamp.

[0015] The third lamp unit 105 functions as both a clearance lamp and a daytime running lamp, and is also a lamp unit that emits light in a predetermined light-emitting area as a design feature. In the third lamp unit 105, for example, light emitted from a light source is guided within a light guide and emitted forward or to the right of the vehicle. The light emitted forward from the light guide, together with the light emitted from the second lamp unit 104, forms the light distribution for the clearance lamp and the daytime running lamp. On the other hand, the light emitted to the right of the vehicle from the light guide causes the third lamp unit 105 to appear to emit light in a predetermined light-emitting area when viewed from the right side of the vehicle.

[0016] The configuration of the third lighting unit 105 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 illustrates the configuration of the third lighting unit 105. Figure 3 is an exploded view illustrating the multiple elements that make up the third lighting unit 105.

[0017] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the third lighting unit 105 comprises a first light source 1, a first substrate 2, a second light source 3, a second substrate 4, a base member 5, a cord member 6, a light guide 7, and a reflector 8.

[0018] The first light source 1 is, for example, a white LED (Light Emitting Diode). The first light source 1 is mounted on the first substrate 2. The first substrate 2 is, for example, a printed circuit board made of an insulator with electrical circuit wiring printed on its surface or inside.

[0019] The second light source 3 is, for example, a white LED. The second light source 3 is mounted on the second substrate 4. The second substrate 4 is, for example, a printed circuit board made of an insulator with electrical circuit wiring printed on its surface or inside.

[0020] The first substrate 2 and the second substrate 4 are fixed to the base member 5. Specifically, the base member 5 has a first fixing part 51 and a second fixing part 52. The first substrate 2, on which the first light source 1 is mounted, is fixed to the first fixing part 51. The second substrate 4, on which the second light source 3 is mounted, is fixed to the second fixing part 52.

[0021] The cord member 6 is a power supply cord member for supplying power to the first light source 1 and the second light source 3. The cord member 6 is connected to the first circuit board 2 and the second circuit board 4. Specifically, the first end of the cord member 6 branches into a first connection part 61 for supplying power to the first light source and a second connection part 62 for supplying power to the second light source. The first connection part 61 for supplying power to the first light source is connected to the terminal part 21 of the first circuit board 2. The second connection part 62 for supplying power to the second light source is connected to the terminal part 41 of the second circuit board 4. The second end 63 of the cord member 6, opposite to the first end, is fixed to the reflector 8 and connected to a power supply part (not shown) inside the lamp chamber.

[0022] The light guide 7 is formed by injection molding a transparent resin material such as acrylic or polycarbonate. The light guide 7 has a first end portion 72 into which light from the first light source 1 enters a first light incident portion 71. The light guide 7 also has a second end portion 74 into which light from the second light source 3 enters a second light incident portion 73. The light guide 7 is configured to guide the light that enters the first light incident portion 71 from the first light source 1 and the second light incident portion 73 from the second light source 3, and to emit the light forward (i.e., towards the front of the vehicle) or to the right (i.e., to the right side of the vehicle) by internal reflection.

[0023] The reflector 8 is mounted on the housing 101 (see Figure 1). A base member 5 and a light guide 7 are attached to the reflector 8. The base member 5 has a third fixing part 53 located between a first fixing part 51 and a second fixing part 52. For example, the third fixing part 53 of the base member 5 is lance-fixed to the fixing part 81 of the reflector 8.

[0024] The light guide 7 is attached to the reflector 8 such that the side opposite to the side from which light is emitted faces the reflector 8. The reflector 8 is configured to reflect the light emitted from the light guide 7 that does not reach the reflector 8 but is instead emitted forward or to the right, and then emits that light forward or to the right. By using the reflector 8, the efficiency of light utilization is increased.

[0025] Next, the configuration of the light guide 7 will be explained in detail using Figures 4 to 8. Figure 4 illustrates the configuration of the light guide 7 as seen from the side from which light is emitted. Figure 5 illustrates the configuration of the light guide 7 as seen from the back of Figure 4. Figure 6 illustrates the configuration of the cross section along line VI-VI in Figure 4 as seen from the direction of the arrow. Figure 7 illustrates the configuration of the cross section along line VII-VII in Figure 4 as seen from the direction of the arrow. Figure 8 illustrates the configuration of the cross section along line VIII-VIII in Figure 4 as seen from the direction of the arrow.

[0026] As illustrated in Figure 4, the light guide 7 has a first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A that extends along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A is configured to guide light incident from the first light source 1 and reflect it internally to emit it forward (i.e., in front of the vehicle). Forward is an example of the first direction of this disclosure.

[0027] Specifically, the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A has a first end portion 72 having a first light incident portion 71 and a front end portion 75. The first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A extends downward from the first end portion 72 toward the front end portion 75, that is, from rear toward front. The front end portion 75 is an example of the third end portion of this disclosure.

[0028] The first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A is formed to become thinner as it moves away from the first end portion 72. That is, the area of ​​the cross-section of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A perpendicular to the longitudinal direction decreases as it moves away from the first end portion 72.

[0029] In this example, the first rod-shaped light guide 7A is formed in a cylindrical shape, and as shown in Figure 6, the cross-section of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A is approximately circular. For example, in the cylindrical first rod-shaped light guide 7A, the diameter of the cross-section at the first end 72 is 6 mm, and the diameter of the cross-section at the front end 75 is 3 mm.

[0030] In this specification, the expression "the area of ​​the cross-section decreases as it moves away from the first end 72" may also include a configuration in which the area of ​​the cross-section gradually decreases from the first end 72, and / or a configuration in which it decreases in steps from the first end 72. For example, in this example, the area of ​​the cross-section of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A is formed to gradually decrease toward the front from the position where the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B extends.

[0031] As illustrated in Figure 5, the first rod-shaped light guide 7A has an internal reflection step 76 formed along its longitudinal direction. The surface on which the internal reflection step 76 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A is formed faces forward.

[0032] As illustrated in Figure 6, the internal reflection step 76 reflects the light L1 that enters the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A from the first light source 1 and guides within the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A toward the front. The light L1 reflected by the internal reflection step 76 is emitted toward the front from the emission surface 77 and contributes to the light distribution as a daytime running lamp or clearance lamp.

[0033] As illustrated in Figure 4, the light guide 7 has a plate-shaped light guide portion 7B. The plate-shaped light guide portion 7B is configured to guide the light incident from the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A and to emit it to the right (i.e., to the right side of the vehicle) after internal reflection. The right side is an example of the second direction of this disclosure.

[0034] The plate-shaped light guide portion 7B is provided so as to extend from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A. Specifically, the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B extends from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A in a direction away from the central axis of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A, and also extends along the central axis of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A.

[0035] In this example, the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B extends along the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A to the front end portion 75, starting from a position slightly closer to the first end portion 72 of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A from the center of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A (specifically, at a position approximately 1 / 3 of the length of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A as viewed from the first end portion 72 of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A), and also extends radially from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A.

[0036] The plate-shaped light guide portion 7B widens in a direction extending from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A as it moves away from the first end portion 72 of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A. Specifically, in the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B, the distance from the portion continuous with the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A to the edge portion 78 in the direction away from the central axis of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A widens as it moves away from the first end portion 72 of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A.

[0037] As illustrated in Figure 5, the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B has an internal reflection step 79 formed along its longitudinal direction. The surface on which the internal reflection step 79 of the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B is formed faces to the right.

[0038] As illustrated in Figure 6, the internal reflection step 79 reflects the light L2 that enters the plate-shaped light guide section 7B from the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A and guides within the plate-shaped light guide section 7B toward the right. The light L2 reflected by the internal reflection step 79 is emitted toward the right from the emission surface 91, and when viewed from the right side of the vehicle, it appears to shine in a light-emitting area that widens towards the bottom.

[0039] Furthermore, some of the light L3 that enters the plate-shaped light guide section 7B from the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A and is guided within the plate-shaped light guide section 7B reaches the edge 78 of the plate-shaped light guide section. The edge 78 has a curved surface, and the light L3 that reaches the edge 78 of the plate-shaped light guide section is not emitted outwards from the edge 78 but is internally reflected by the curved surface. This increases the light guiding efficiency.

[0040] The plate-shaped light guide portion 7B is formed to have a constant thickness. Here, the thickness of the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B is the length between the emission surface 91 and the internal reflection step 79. For example, if the diameter of the cross-section at the first end 72 of the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A is 6 mm and the diameter of the cross-section at the front end 75 is 3 mm, then the thickness of the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B is 3 mm.

[0041] As illustrated in Figure 6, the emission surface 77 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A protrudes more than the emission surface 91 of the plate-shaped light guide 7B. The amount of protrusion of the emission surface 77 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A relative to the emission surface 91 of the plate-shaped light guide 7B decreases as the first end 72 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A moves toward the front end 75. As illustrated in Figure 7, at the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A, the diameter of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A and the thickness of the plate-shaped light guide 7B are approximately the same.

[0042] With the third lamp unit 105 configured in this way, the first rod-shaped light guide 7A emits light forward of the vehicle, thereby emitting light that contributes to the light distribution of a lamp with a predetermined function. Furthermore, by emitting light to the right side of the vehicle through the plate-shaped light guide 7B, the lamp unit can be illuminated in a predetermined light-emitting area when viewed from the outside. This enhances the aesthetic design of the vehicle lamp 100.

[0043] Furthermore, the internal reflection step 76 formed in the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A allows light guiding inside the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A to be reflected and emitted forward.

[0044] Furthermore, the internal reflection step 79 formed on the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B allows light guiding through the interior of the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B to be reflected and emitted to the right. In this example, as shown in Figure 6, the surface on which the internal reflection step 79 of the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B is formed is recessed toward the emission surface 91 side compared to the edge portion 78. This reduces the distance from the internal reflection step 79 to the emission surface 91, improving emission efficiency.

[0045] Furthermore, the area of ​​the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A decreases as it moves away from the first end 72 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A, thus reducing the amount of light guided inside the first rod-shaped light guide 7A. As a result, compared to the case where the cross-sectional area does not change, the amount of light reaching the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A decreases, preventing strong light from being emitted from the front end 75. Therefore, the appearance when lit is improved.

[0046] Furthermore, since the emission surface 77 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A protrudes more than the emission surface 91 of the plate-shaped light guide 7B, the light emitted from the emission surface 77 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A can be directed forward without being obstructed by the plate-shaped light guide 7B.

[0047] Furthermore, since the thickness of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A is formed to be approximately the same as the thickness of the plate-shaped light guide 7B at the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A, the brightness becomes uniform, and it is possible to prevent the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A from shining too brightly. This improves the appearance when the lights are on.

[0048] As illustrated in Figure 4, the light guide 7 further has a second rod-shaped light guide section 7C. The second rod-shaped light guide section 7C is configured to guide the light incident from the second light source 3 and reflect it internally to the right (i.e., to the right side of the vehicle). In this example, the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C is located below the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A.

[0049] The second rod-shaped light guide section 7C has a second end portion 74 having a second light incident portion 73 and a front end portion 95. In this example, the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C extends horizontally from the second end portion 74 towards the front end portion 95, that is, from rear to front, curving slightly to the left.

[0050] The front end 95 of the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C is covered by a reflector 8, as illustrated in Figure 2. For example, as shown in Figure 3, a slit 82 is provided on the back surface of the reflector 8 in a part of the area where the light guide body 7 is housed. The front end 95 of the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C is inserted into the slit 82.

[0051] As illustrated in Figure 5, the second rod-shaped light guide 7C has an internal reflection step 92 formed along its longitudinal direction. The surface on which the internal reflection step 92 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C is formed faces to the right. The internal reflection step 92 reflects the light that enters the second rod-shaped light guide 7C from the second light source 3 and guides within the second rod-shaped light guide 7C toward the right. The light reflected by the internal reflection step 92 is emitted from the exit surface 93 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C toward the right (i.e., to the right side of the vehicle).

[0052] As illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the cross-section of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C perpendicular to the longitudinal direction changes from a circular shape to an elongated oval shape that is perpendicular to the rightward direction as it moves away from the second end 74.

[0053] As the cross-sectional shape changes from circular to oval, the vertical length of the emission surface 93 increases as it moves away from the second end 74, as illustrated in Figure 4. As a result, the light emitted to the right from the emission surface 93 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C appears to glow in a light-emitting area that expands vertically as it moves forward, when viewed from the right side of the vehicle.

[0054] Multiple cylindrical steps 94 are formed on the emission surface 93 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C. Each cylindrical step 94 extends axially along the front-to-back direction. The cylindrical steps 94 are arranged in a vertical direction, and the number of vertically arranged cylindrical steps 94 increases as you move away from the second end 74 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C.

[0055] The portion of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C closer to its front end 95 than its longitudinal center is connected to the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A and the front end 96 of the plate-shaped light guide 7B that extends from the circumferential surface of the front end 75. The front end 96 of the plate-shaped light guide 7B is connected to the second rod-shaped light guide 7C at a position further from the second end 74 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C than the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A.

[0056] As illustrated in Figure 7, in the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C, the portion connecting the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A and the front end 96 of the plate-shaped light guide section 7B is formed such that the thickness of the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A and the thickness of the front end 96 of the plate-shaped light guide section 7B are approximately the same. In other words, the portion connecting the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A, the plate-shaped light guide section 7B, and the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C is formed to be a plate shape with approximately the same thickness.

[0057] For example, if the diameter of the cross-section at the first end 72 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A is 6 mm and the diameter of the cross-section at the front end 75 is 3 mm, then the diameter of the cross-section at the second end 74 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C is 6 mm, and the thickness of the cross-section at the point where the front end 75 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A and the front end of the plate-shaped light guide 7B are connected is 3 mm. Here, the thickness of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C is the length between the emission surface 93 and the internal reflection step 92, and corresponds to the width of the oval cross-section.

[0058] With the third luminaire unit 105 configured in this way, light is emitted to the right by the second rod-shaped light guide 7C, so that when the luminaire unit is viewed from the outside, it can be illuminated in a predetermined light-emitting area together with the plate-shaped light guide 7B, thereby enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

[0059] Furthermore, since the portion where the first rod-shaped light guide 7A, the plate-shaped light guide 7B, and the second rod-shaped light guide 7C are connected has a plate shape with approximately the same thickness, the brightness becomes uniform, and it is possible to prevent the first rod-shaped light guide 7A and the second rod-shaped light guide 7C from shining too brightly at the connection point. This improves the appearance when lit.

[0060] Furthermore, the cross-section of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C changes from circular to oval as it moves away from the second end 74, so the area from which light is emitted widens to the right as it moves away from the second end 74. As a result, when the luminaire unit is viewed from the outside, the second rod-shaped light guide 7C appears to light up with a design that widens the light-emitting area as it moves away from the second end 74. In addition, since the amount of light reaching the front end 95 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C is reduced, it is possible to prevent strong light from being emitted from the connection part between the first rod-shaped light guide 7A and the plate-shaped light guide 7B, or from the front end 95. Therefore, the appearance when lit is improved.

[0061] Furthermore, the step-forming surface can be easily widened by simply increasing the number of cylindrical steps 94 on the emission surface 93 of the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C.

[0062] Furthermore, since the front end 95 of the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C is covered by the reflector 8, it is possible to prevent the front end 95 from emitting a point of light.

[0063] (Modified example of the third lighting unit) Figure 9 illustrates the configuration of a modified light guide 70. Elements substantially identical to those in the light guide 7 of the above embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0064] In the light guide 7 of the above embodiment, the second rod-shaped light guide portion 7C is located below the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A and the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B. In contrast, in the light guide 70 of this modified example, the second rod-shaped light guide portion 7C is located above the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A and the plate-shaped light guide portion 7B.

[0065] Light entering the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A from the first light source 1 is guided upwards through the first rod-shaped light guide section 7A and then emitted forward (i.e., in front of the vehicle).

[0066] Light entering the plate-shaped light guide 7B from the first rod-shaped light guide 7A is guided through the plate-shaped light guide 7B and emitted to the right (i.e., to the right side of the vehicle). As a result, when viewed from the right side of the vehicle, the first rod-shaped light guide 7A appears to emit light in a region that widens as it extends upwards.

[0067] Light entering the second rod-shaped light guide 7C from the second light source 3 is guided within the second rod-shaped light guide 7C and emitted to the right (i.e., to the right side of the vehicle). As a result, when viewed from the right side of the vehicle, the second rod-shaped light guide 7C appears to emit light with a luminous area that expands vertically as it moves forward.

[0068] According to the configuration of the light guide 70 in this modified example, the same effects as those of the light guide 7 in the above embodiment can be obtained.

[0069] In the above embodiments and modifications, the third lamp unit 105 is positioned on the right side within the lamp chamber of the vehicle lamp 100, but is not limited to this. For example, the third lamp unit 105 may be positioned, for example, near the center within the lamp chamber of the vehicle lamp 100. In this case, for example, the light guides 7 and 70 are arranged such that the emission surface 77 of the first rod-shaped light guide 7A and the surface on which the internal reflection step 76 is formed face forward, and the emission surface 91 of the plate-shaped light guide 7B and the surface on which the internal reflection step 79 is formed, as well as the emission surface 93 of the second rod-shaped light guide 7C and the surface on which the internal reflection step 92 is formed, face sideways. By arranging the light guides 7 and 70 in this way, it is possible to emit light that contributes to the light distribution of the lamp that illuminates the front of the vehicle, while also illuminating a predetermined light-emitting area on the side of the vehicle to enhance the design.

[0070] In the above embodiments and modifications, the third lamp unit 105 may include an inner lens positioned in the direction of light emission of the light guides 7 and 70. For example, the light incident on the inner lens from the light guides 7 and 70 may be diffused and emitted in front of the vehicle or to the right of the vehicle.

[0071] (Assembly method for the third lighting unit) Next, the assembly method of the third lighting unit 105 will be explained using Figures 10 to 15. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the process of fixing the first substrate 2, the second substrate 4, and the cord member 6 to the base member 5. Figure 11 illustrates a configuration in which the first substrate 2, the second substrate 4, and the cord member 6 are fixed to the base member 5. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the process of attaching the light guide 7 to the reflector 8. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the process of attaching the base member 5 to the reflector 8. Figure 14 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a configuration in which the first end 72 of the light guide 7 is fixed to the base member 5. Figure 15 is a partially enlarged view illustrating a configuration in which the fixing part 81 of the reflector 8 and the third fixing part 53 of the base member 5 are lance-fixed.

[0072] First, as illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, the worker fixes the first substrate 2 and the second substrate 4 to the base member 5. Specifically, the first substrate 2, on which the first light source 1 is mounted, is fixed to the first fixing part 51 of the base member 5 with screws (not shown). The second substrate 4, on which the second light source 3 is mounted, is fixed to the second fixing part 52 of the base member 5 with screws (not shown).

[0073] The first fixing portion 51 is provided with a first mounting portion 51A for attaching the first rod-shaped light guide portion 7A and a first opening 51B that exposes the terminal portion 21 of the first substrate 2. The second fixing portion 52 is provided with a second mounting portion 52A for attaching the second rod-shaped light guide portion 7C and a second opening 52B that exposes the terminal portion 41 of the second substrate 4.

[0074] The first substrate 2 is attached to the first fixing portion 51 of the base member 5 such that the first light source 1 is exposed through the through hole of the first mounting portion 51A and the terminal portion 21 is exposed through the first opening 51B. The second substrate 4 is attached to the second fixing portion 52 of the base member 5 such that the second light source 3 is exposed through the through hole of the second mounting portion 52A and the terminal portion 41 is exposed through the second opening 52B.

[0075] Furthermore, a heat sink may be attached to the base member 5 so as to cover one or both of the sides of the first substrate 2 opposite to the light source mounting surface and the side of the second substrate 4 opposite to the substrate mounting surface.

[0076] Next, the worker connects the first end of the cord member 6 to the first substrate 2 and the second substrate 4, which are fixed to the base member 5. Specifically, the first connection part 61 of the cord member 6 for supplying power to the first light source is connected to the terminal part 21 of the first substrate 2, which is exposed through the first opening 51B of the base member 5. In addition, the second connection part 62 of the cord member 6 for supplying power to the second light source is connected to the terminal part 41 of the second substrate 4, which is exposed through the second opening 52B of the base member 5.

[0077] The step of connecting the cord member 6 to the first substrate 2 and the second substrate 4 may be performed between the steps of fixing the first substrate 2 and the second substrate 4 to the base member 5. For example, the first substrate 2 may be fixed to the base member 5, the first connection portion 61 of the cord member 6 may be connected to the first substrate 2, the second substrate may be fixed to the base member 5, and the second connection portion 62 of the cord member 6 may be connected to the second substrate 4.

[0078] The second end 63 of the cord member 6 may be temporarily fixed to the base member 5. For example, as illustrated in Figure 10, the base member 5 is provided with a winding section 54. By winding the second end 63 of the cord member 6 around the winding section 54 of the base member 5, the second end 63 is temporarily fixed to the base member 5 (see Figure 13).

[0079] Next, as illustrated in Figure 12, the worker attaches the light guide 7 to the reflector 8 from above. Upward is just one example of a predetermined direction in this disclosure. Specifically, the reflector 8 is mounted on a jig (not shown) in the position shown in Figure 12. In this position, the slit 82 into which the front end 75 of the second rod-shaped light guide portion 7C of the light guide 7 is inserted is located on the upper side.

[0080] The worker grasps the light guide body 7 so that the front end 75 of the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C is positioned upwards and the first end 72 and second end 74 are positioned downwards, and while moving the light guide body 7 upwards relative to the reflector 8, inserts the front end 75 of the second rod-shaped light guide section 7C into the slit 82 of the reflector 8. Then, attaches the rest of the light guide body 7 to the reflector 8.

[0081] Next, as illustrated in Figure 13, the base member 5 to which the first substrate 2, the second substrate 4, and the cord member 6 are attached is mounted upwards relative to the reflector 8 to which the light guide 7 is attached.

[0082] Specifically, as illustrated in Figure 14, the worker inserts the first end 72 of the light guide 7 into the through hole of the first mounting portion 51A of the base member 5. This positions the first light incident portion 71 provided on the first end 72 relative to the first light source 1 mounted on the first substrate 2.

[0083] Similarly, the worker inserts the second end 74 of the light guide 7 into the through hole of the second mounting portion 52A (see Figure 10) of the base member 5. This positions the second light incident portion 73 provided on the second end 74 relative to the second light source 3 mounted on the second substrate 4.

[0084] Furthermore, the third fixing portion 53 of the base member 5 is lance-fixed to the fixing portion 81 of the reflector 8. For example, as shown in Figure 10, a through hole 53A is formed in the third fixing portion 53 of the base member 5. Also, as illustrated in Figure 13, a protruding lance portion 81A is formed on the fixing portion 81 of the reflector 8. As illustrated in Figure 15, the fixing portion 81 of the reflector 8 is inserted into the through hole 53A of the third fixing portion 53 of the base member 5, and the lance portion 81A of the fixing portion 81 of the reflector 8 is fixed to the third fixing portion 53 of the base member 5.

[0085] Next, the worker detaches the second end 63 of the cord member 6 from the winding section 54 of the base member 5 and wires it to the reflector 8. Then, the second end 63 of the cord member 6 is fixed to the reflector 8 (see Figure 2).

[0086] Here, for example, if the first substrate 2 and the second substrate 4 are to be directly fixed to the reflector 8 with screws, it is not possible to fasten them with screws in the orientation of the reflector 8 shown in Figure 13, so it is necessary to change the orientation of the reflector 8 (for example, by inverting it upside down).

[0087] In contrast, according to the assembly method of the third lighting unit 105 according to this embodiment, the mounting direction when attaching the light guide 7 to the reflector 8 (upward in this example) and the mounting direction when attaching the base member 5 to which the first substrate 2 and the second substrate 4 are attached to the reflector 8 to which the light guide 7 is attached (upward in this example) are the same. As a result, after attaching the light guide 7 to the reflector 8, the base member 5 to which the first substrate 2 and the second substrate 4 are fixed can be attached to the reflector 8 without changing the orientation of the reflector 8. This improves the work efficiency during assembly.

[0088] Furthermore, by inserting the first light incident portion 71 and the second light incident portion 73 of the light guide 7 into the through holes of the first mounting portion 51A and the second mounting portion 52A of the base member 5, the first light incident portion 71 and the second light incident portion 73 are positioned relative to the first light source 1 and the second light source 3, thus allowing the light guide 7 to be positioned with a simple structure.

[0089] Furthermore, since the cord member 6 is connected to the first circuit board 2 and the second circuit board 4 fixed to the base member 5 before the base member 5 is attached to the reflector 8, the installation and wiring of the cord member 6 to the reflector 8 becomes easier.

[0090] Furthermore, when attaching the base member 5 to the reflector 8, the second end 63 of the cord member 6 is wrapped around the winding portion 54 of the base member 5, making it easier to handle the base member 5.

[0091] Furthermore, since the cord member 6 is wired to the reflector 8 after the base member 5 is attached to the reflector 8, the wiring of the cord member 6 becomes easier.

[0092] Furthermore, since the base member 5 is fixed to the reflector 8 by lance fixing, assembly is possible. Compared to cases where separate components such as screws are used, assembly man-hours are reduced and assembly costs are lower. In addition, the base member 5 can be stably fixed to the reflector 8.

[0093] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be freely modified, improved, etc. Furthermore, the material, shape, dimensions, numerical values, form, number, and placement location of each component in the embodiments described above are arbitrary and not limited, as long as they can achieve the disclosure.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the vehicle lighting fixture 100 is mounted on the front of the vehicle, but it may also be mounted on the rear of the vehicle.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the vehicle lighting device 100 has the functions of a headlamp, a turn signal lamp, a clearance lamp, and a daytime running lamp. However, the vehicle lighting device 100 may also be configured to have the functions of other lamps, such as a side marker lamp, a taillight, or a stop lamp.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the vehicle lighting fixture 100 has multiple lighting units, but it may also be configured to have only the third lighting unit 105.

[0097] The configurations listed below also constitute part of this disclosure. (1) The first light source and A light guide that guides and emits light from the first light source, It is equipped with, The light guide body is A first rod-shaped light guide portion having a first end into which light from the first light source is incident, guides the light incident from the first light source and reflects it internally to emit it in a first direction, The present invention provides a plate-shaped light guide portion that extends from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion, guides the light incident from the first rod-shaped light guide portion, and reflects it internally to emit it in a second direction different from the first direction, The plate-shaped light guide portion widens in a direction extending from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion as it moves away from the first end of the first rod-shaped light guide portion, in a vehicle light device. (2) The first rod-shaped light guide portion has an internal reflection step formed along the longitudinal direction of the first rod-shaped light guide portion, The plate-shaped light guide portion has an internal reflection step formed along the longitudinal direction of the plate-shaped light guide portion, The vehicle light fixture according to (1), wherein the surface on which the inner surface reflective step of the first rod-shaped light guide portion is formed faces the first direction, and the surface on which the inner surface reflective step of the plate-shaped light guide portion is formed faces the second direction. (3) The vehicle lamp according to (1) or (2), wherein the area of ​​the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first rod-shaped light guide decreases as it moves away from the first end of the first rod-shaped light guide. (4) The vehicle lamp according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the emission surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion protrudes more than the emission surface of the plate-shaped light guide portion. (5) It is further equipped with a second light source, The light guide has a second end into which light from the second light source is incident, and further comprises a second rod-shaped light guide portion that guides the light incident from the second light source and reflects it internally to emit it in the second direction. The third end of the first rod-shaped light guide section, opposite to the first end, is connected to the second rod-shaped light guide section. The vehicle light fixture according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the portion extending from the circumferential surface of the third end of the plate-shaped light guide is connected to the second rod-shaped light guide at a position further from the second end of the second rod-shaped light guide than the third end of the first rod-shaped light guide. (6) The vehicle light fixture according to (5), wherein the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second rod-shaped light guide changes from a circular shape to an elongated oval shape in a direction perpendicular to the second direction as it moves away from the second end of the second rod-shaped light guide. (7) The vehicle lamp according to (5) or (6), wherein the second rod-shaped light guide has a plurality of cylindrical steps formed on the emission surface, and the number of cylindrical steps increases as it moves away from the second end of the second rod-shaped light guide. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1 First light source 2 First board 21 Terminal section 3 Second light source 4 Second board 41 Terminal section 5 Base member 51 First fixed part 51A First mounting section 51B First opening 52 Second fixed part 52A Second mounting section 52B Second opening 53 Third fixed part 53A through hole 54 Winding section 6. Cord components 61 First connection section 62 Second connection section 63 Second end 7.70 Light guide 7A First rod-shaped light guide 7B Plate-shaped light guide section 7C Second rod-shaped light guide 71 First light incidence part 72 First end 73 Second light incidence part 74 Second end 75 Front end 76. Internal reflection step 77 Ejection surface 78 Edge 79. Internal reflection step 8 reflectors 81 Fixed part 81A Lance section 82 Slits 91 Ejection surface 92 Internal reflection step 93 Ejection surface 94 Cylindrical Step 95 Front end 96 Front end 100 Vehicle lighting fixtures 101 Housing 102 Translucent Cover 103 First Lighting Unit 104 Second Lighting Unit 105 Third Lighting Unit

Claims

1. The first light source and A light guide that guides and emits light from the first light source, It is equipped with, The light guide body is A first rod-shaped light guide portion having a first end into which light from the first light source is incident, guides the light incident from the first light source and reflects it internally to emit it in a first direction, The present invention provides a plate-shaped light guide portion that extends from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion, guides the light incident from the first rod-shaped light guide portion, and reflects it internally to emit it in a second direction different from the first direction, The plate-shaped light guide portion widens in a direction extending from the circumferential surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion as it moves away from the first end of the first rod-shaped light guide portion, in a vehicle light device.

2. The first rod-shaped light guide portion has an internal reflection step formed along the longitudinal direction of the first rod-shaped light guide portion, The plate-shaped light guide portion has an internal reflection step formed along the longitudinal direction of the plate-shaped light guide portion, The vehicle light fixture according to claim 1, wherein the surface on which the inner surface reflective step of the first rod-shaped light guide portion is formed faces the first direction, and the surface on which the inner surface reflective step of the plate-shaped light guide portion is formed faces the second direction.

3. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 1, wherein the area of ​​the cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first rod-shaped light guide decreases as it moves away from the first end of the first rod-shaped light guide.

4. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 1, wherein the emission surface of the first rod-shaped light guide portion protrudes more than the emission surface of the plate-shaped light guide portion.

5. It also has a second light source, The light guide body has a second end into which light from the second light source is incident, and further comprises a second rod-shaped light guide portion that guides the light incident from the second light source and reflects it internally to emit it in the second direction. The third end of the first rod-shaped light guide section, opposite to the first end, is connected to the second rod-shaped light guide section. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 1, wherein the portion extending from the circumferential surface of the third end of the plate-shaped light guide is connected to the second rod-shaped light guide at a position further from the second end of the second rod-shaped light guide than the third end of the first rod-shaped light guide.

6. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 5, wherein the cross-section of the second rod-shaped light guide portion perpendicular to the longitudinal direction changes from a circular shape to an elongated oval shape in a direction perpendicular to the second direction as it moves away from the second end of the second rod-shaped light guide portion.

7. The second rod-shaped light guide section has a plurality of cylindrical steps formed on its emission surface. The vehicle light fixture according to claim 5, wherein the number of cylindrical steps increases as the second end of the second rod-shaped light guide portion moves away from it.

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