Vehicle front structure

Abstract

Disclosed is a vehicle anterior structure (1) comprising: a lamp unit (3) that includes an outer lens (10) which is provided with a first lens section (18) of a shape extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lens section (19) of a shape extending in the vertical direction, and a light source (21) arranged to the inner side of the outer lens; and a shield member (30) arranged below the first lens section (18) and to the inner side of the second lens section (19) in the vehicle width direction. The shield member (30) has a first inclined surface (31) formed in a plane that is inclined to the vehicle posterior going toward the outer side in the vehicle width direction. An inner edge forming the side on the inner side of the vehicle width direction on the first inclined surface (31) extends downward from an end of the first lens section (18) on the inner side in the vehicle width direction and toward the outer side in the vehicle width direction.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present case relates to a vehicle front structure including a vehicle lamp unit. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, vehicle lamp units (vehicle headlights) have a structure in which the front of a light source is covered by an outer lens. Specific examples of light sources include LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamps, halogen lamps, and HID (High Intensity Discharge) lamps. The shape of the outer lens is appropriately determined depending on the shape of the portion to which the outer lens is attached and the surrounding shape. For example, a vehicle headlight is known in which the outer surface of the outer lens is formed into a smoothly curved shape (streamlined shape) to improve aesthetic appearance while reducing air resistance when the vehicle is traveling (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-228417 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In recent years, lamp units incorporating multiple light sources with different lighting modes have been developed. For example, a lamp unit is known that incorporates a light source that functions as a daytime running light (DRL, Daytime Running Light) separately from a light source that functions as a headlight. Alternatively, a lamp unit is known that incorporates a light source that functions as a turn signal (blinker, turn lamp) separately from a light source that functions as a headlight.

[0005] It is desirable for the lamp unit described above to be able to clearly and easily display information such as the presence of a vehicle and turning direction to those outside (other vehicles and nearby pedestrians). Therefore, it is desirable to design the structure and peripheral shape of the outer lens taking into consideration not only aesthetics and air resistance when the vehicle is moving, but also differences in appearance and visibility to the outside. Existing technology does not sufficiently take these points into consideration, and there is room for improvement.

[0006] One of the objectives of the present invention, which was invented in light of the above-mentioned problems, is to provide a vehicle front structure that can clearly and easily display information emitted from a lamp unit with a simple configuration. However, in addition to this objective, another objective of the present invention is to achieve effects derived from the respective configurations shown in the "Mode for Carrying Out the Invention" below, which are not obtainable with conventional technology. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The disclosed vehicle front structure can be realized in the following aspects or application examples, and solves at least some of the above-mentioned problems. Aspect 1. The disclosed vehicle front structure includes a lamp unit having an outer lens provided with a first lens portion extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lens portion extending in the up-down direction, and a light source disposed inside the outer lens, and a shield member disposed below the first lens portion and inside the second lens portion in the vehicle width direction. The shield member has a first inclined surface formed in a plane that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction toward the rear of the vehicle. An inner edge portion of the first inclined surface that forms an inner side in the vehicle width direction extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the inner end of the first lens portion in the vehicle width direction. The shield member has a second inclined surface that is positioned directly below the first lens portion and adjacent to an upper portion of the first inclined surface, and is formed in a surface shape that slopes upward toward the front of the vehicle. Aspect 2: With respect to Aspect 1, it is preferable that the second inclined surface is formed in a triangular planar shape whose vertical dimension increases toward the outer side in the vehicle width direction. Aspect 3. Another disclosed vehicle front structure includes a lamp unit having an outer lens provided with a first lens portion extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lens portion extending in the up-down direction, and a light source disposed inside the outer lens; and a shield member disposed below the first lens portion and on the inside of the second lens portion in the vehicle width direction. The shield member has a first inclined surface formed in a plane that slopes toward the rear of the vehicle and extends outward in the vehicle width direction. An inner edge portion forming an inner side of the first inclined surface in the vehicle width direction extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from an end portion of the first lens portion on the inside of the vehicle width direction. The outer lens is disposed adjacent to the outside of the first inclined surface in the vehicle width direction, and has an inclined edge portion formed in a plane that slopes toward the front of the vehicle and extends outward in the vehicle width direction. Aspect 4. Another vehicle front structure disclosed includes a lamp unit having an outer lens provided with a first lens portion extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lens portion extending in the up-down direction, and a light source disposed inside the outer lens; and a shield member disposed below the first lens portion and on the inside of the second lens portion in the vehicle width direction. The shield member has a first inclined surface formed in a plane that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction and toward the rear of the vehicle. An inner edge portion that forms the inside edge of the first inclined surface in the vehicle width direction extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the inside end of the first lens portion in the vehicle width direction. The shield member has a third inclined surface disposed adjacent to a lower portion of the first inclined surface and formed in a plane that slopes downward toward the front of the vehicle. Aspect 5. Another vehicle front structure disclosed includes a lamp unit having an outer lens provided with a first lens portion extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lens portion extending in the up-down direction, and a light source disposed inside the outer lens; and a shield member disposed below the first lens portion and on the inside of the second lens portion in the vehicle width direction. The shield member has a first inclined surface formed in a plane that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction toward the rear of the vehicle. An inner edge portion forming the inside edge of the first inclined surface in the vehicle width direction extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the inside end of the first lens portion in the vehicle width direction. The vehicle front structure also includes a lower surface portion disposed below the shield member and formed in a curved surface that slopes downward toward the front of the vehicle and slopes outward in the vehicle width direction toward the rear of the vehicle. Aspect 6. With respect to any of aspects 1 to 5, it is preferable that the vehicle has an upper frame portion that is arranged on the upper part of the radiator grille of the vehicle, and that the upper frame portion has an upper frame bent portion formed by extending the portion that protrudes toward the front in the vehicle width direction, an upper frame upper surface portion that is formed in a shape that slopes downward toward the front and is arranged above the upper frame bent portion, and an upper frame front portion that extends downward from the upper frame bent portion, and that the upper frame bent portion is arranged at a position that extends the upper end edge of the first lens portion in the vehicle width direction. Aspect 7. With regard to aspect 6, it is preferable that the vehicle further comprises a vertical frame portion arranged between the radiator grille and the lamp unit, the vertical frame portion being formed in a planar shape connected to the upper frame front portion and having a vertical frame front portion extending outward and downward in the vehicle width direction from the outer end of the upper frame front portion in the vehicle width direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the disclosed vehicle front structure, by forming a planar first inclined surface that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction toward the rear of the vehicle, water droplets adhering to the first lens portion can be scattered outside the vehicle. Furthermore, by extending the inner edge portion of the first inclined surface downward from the end of the first lens portion on the inner side in the vehicle width direction toward the outer side in the vehicle width direction, water droplets are less likely to accumulate near the inner edge portion, and scattering of water droplets outside the vehicle can be promoted. Therefore, the visibility of the lamp unit from the outside of the vehicle can be improved, and information emitted from the lamp unit can be displayed clearly and easily with a simple configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of a vehicle to which a vehicle front structure is applied. [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the vehicle front structure. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an outer lens included in the lamp unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a main body included in the lamp unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the lamp unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the lamp unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The disclosed vehicle front structure can be implemented by the following embodiments. Regarding the definition of directions in the embodiments, the directions of the parts and portions constituting the vehicle front structure refer to the directions when they are attached to the vehicle, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the front-rear direction is defined based on the forward and backward direction of the vehicle, and the left-right direction is defined based on the front-rear direction (based on the driver seated in the driver's seat facing forward). The up-down direction is defined based on the state in which the vehicle is stopped on a flat road surface.

[0011] The disclosed vehicle front structure includes lamp units. The number of lamp units is not limited. The lamp units described in the following embodiments include a right lamp unit (a lamp unit arranged on the right side of the entire vehicle in the vehicle width direction) and a left lamp unit (a lamp unit arranged on the left side of the entire vehicle in the vehicle width direction). The left side of the right lamp unit (the right side of the right lamp unit when viewed from the front of the vehicle) and the right side of the left lamp unit (the left side of the left lamp unit when viewed from the front of the vehicle) are also referred to as the inner side in the vehicle width direction. Similarly, the right side of the right lamp unit (the left side of the right lamp unit when viewed from the front of the vehicle) and the left side of the left lamp unit (the right side of the left lamp unit when viewed from the front of the vehicle) are also referred to as the outer side in the vehicle width direction. [Example]

[0012] [1. Configuration] Fig. 1 is a front view of a vehicle to which a vehicle front structure 1 according to an embodiment is applied, Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the vehicle front structure 1, and Fig. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion (the left front end portion of the vehicle) of the vehicle front structure 1. A pair of left and right lamp housings 2 are provided at the front end portion of the vehicle, and a lamp unit 3 and a shield member 30 are attached to each lamp housing 2. The lamp housing 2 is formed in a shape recessed inward from the outer panel that forms the outer surface of the vehicle, near both ends in the vehicle width direction of the front end portion of the vehicle. The lamp unit 3 and the shield member 30 are attached inside the recess.

[0013] A hood 4 (bonnet) is provided in front of the vehicle's windshield. Below the hood 4, there is a space in which, for example, the vehicle's drive source (engine, motor, etc.), transmission, heat exchangers (radiator, intercooler, air conditioning condenser, air conditioning evaporator, etc.), and auxiliary equipment are arranged. This space is called the engine room or motor room. The lamp unit 3 is provided in front of this space. In addition, in a front view of the vehicle shown in FIG. 1, the lamp unit 3 is arranged adjacent to and directly below both left and right ends of the hood 4.

[0014] A radiator grille 5 formed in a mesh shape that allows air to pass through is provided in the portion of the front end of the vehicle that is sandwiched between the left and right lamp housing portions 2 (the front portion of the vehicle). When the vehicle is moving, the air that passes through the radiator grille 5 is introduced into the space below the hood 4 and is used, for example, as a coolant to cool a heat exchanger. The overall shape of the radiator grille 5 shown in FIG. 1 is a trapezoid whose upper base is shorter than its lower base. An upper frame portion 40 is disposed at the top of the radiator grille 5 (above the upper base of the trapezoid), and vertical frame portions 44 are disposed between the radiator grille 5 and the lamp unit 3 (to the side of the legs of the trapezoid).

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2 , the lamp unit 3 includes an outer lens 10 and a main body 20. The main body 20 is a housing member to which the light source 21 and a wire harness connected thereto are fixed. The outer lens 10 is a cover member attached to the main body 20 so as to cover the front of the light source 21 and is made of a transparent or translucent material. The outer lens 10 has the function of transmitting light emitted from the light source 21 and radiating it to the outside while preventing water and foreign matter from adhering to the light source 21. The light source 21 is a light-emitting device disposed inside the outer lens 10 (at the rear of the vehicle), and includes, for example, an LED lamp, a halogen lamp, an HID lamp, etc. An inner lens, a mirror, a polarizing plate, etc. (not shown) may be interposed between the light source 21 and the outer lens 10 to adjust the traveling direction, light intensity distribution, polarization state, etc. of the light emitted from the light source 21.

[0016] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the outer lens 10 included in the lamp unit 3, and Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the main body 20 to which the light source 21 is attached. Fig. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the lamp unit 3, and Fig. 7 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the lamp unit 3. 4, the outer lens 10 has a bent portion 11, an upper surface portion 14, a lower surface portion 17, and an edge portion 51. The bent portion 11 has a first bent portion 12 and a second bent portion 13, and the upper surface portion 14 has a first upper surface portion 15 and a second upper surface portion 16. The lower surface portion 17 has a first lower surface portion 18 and a second lower surface portion 19, and the edge portion 51 has a first edge portion 52 and a second edge portion 53.

[0017] The bent portion 11 is a portion formed by extending a portion protruding forward in the vehicle width direction. The bent portion 11 corresponds to the ridgeline that forms the boundary between the planar upper surface portion 14 and the planar lower surface portion 17. When the outer lens 10 is cut along a plane perpendicular to the vehicle width direction, the cross-sectional shape is a bent shape at the bent portion 11 in a V shape. The bent portion 11 is preferably formed as a portion that does not glow when viewed from outside the vehicle (a portion from which almost no light emitted from the light source 21 is emitted). The bent portion 11 may be made not to glow (so that light from the light source 21 does not easily pass through the bent portion 11) by applying a treatment that suppresses light transmission or by arranging a reflective material on the inner surface of the bent portion 11.

[0018] The upper surface portion 14 is a planar portion disposed above the bent portion 11, and is formed in a shape that slopes downward toward the front. The upper surface portion 14 is provided with a first upper surface portion 15 that extends in the vehicle width direction, and a second upper surface portion 16 that extends in the up-down direction. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 , the first upper surface portion 15 is disposed on the inner side of the upper surface portion 14 in the vehicle width direction, and the second upper surface portion 16 is disposed on the outer side of the upper surface portion 14 in the vehicle width direction. The second upper surface portion 16 is disposed adjacent to the first upper surface portion 15 and is connected to an end of the first upper surface portion 15. The outer surfaces of the first upper surface portion 15 and the second upper surface portion 16 are formed to form a smoothly continuous curved surface.

[0019] The lower surface portion 17 is a planar portion disposed below the bent portion 11 and extends downward from the bent portion 11. The lower surface portion 17 is provided with a first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion) extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lower surface portion 19 (second lens portion) extending in the up-down direction. As a result, the overall shape of the lower surface portion 17 is substantially L-shaped. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 , the first lower surface portion 18 is disposed on an inner portion of the lower surface portion 17 in the vehicle width direction, and the second lower surface portion 19 is disposed on an outer portion of the lower surface portion 17 in the vehicle width direction. The second lower surface portion 19 is disposed adjacent to the first lower surface portion 18 and is connected to an end of the first lower surface portion 18. The outer surfaces of the first lower surface portion 18 and the second lower surface portion 19 are formed to form a smoothly continuous curved surface. The upper end edge of the first lower surface portion 18 is the bent portion 11 (first bent portion 12).

[0020] As shown in Fig. 4, the bent portion 11 of this embodiment is provided with a first bent portion 12 and a second bent portion 13. The first bent portion 12 is a portion sandwiched between a first upper surface portion 15 and a first lower surface portion 18, and the second bent portion 13 is a portion sandwiched between a second upper surface portion 16 and a second lower surface portion 19. The first bent portion 12 is disposed on an inner side of the bent portion 11 in the vehicle width direction, and the second bent portion 13 is disposed on an outer side of the bent portion 11 in the vehicle width direction. The second bent portion 13 is disposed so as to be connected to and adjacent to an end of the first bent portion 12. The outer surfaces of the first bent portion 12 and the second bent portion 13 are formed to form a smoothly continuous curved surface.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 4, edge portion 51 is an edge-like portion formed at the bottom of underside portion 17. The outer surface of edge portion 51 is formed in a shape that is recessed more inward of lamp housing portion 2 (in the direction approaching the space below hood 4) than underside portion 17. In addition, the boundary between edge portion 51 and underside portion 17 is formed in a shape that protrudes like a peak toward the front of the vehicle. This boundary portion is called ridge portion 50. The overall shape of ridge portion 50 is approximately L-shaped (in the shape of the Japanese character "V"), similar to the overall shape of underside portion 17.

[0022] The edge portion 51 is provided with a first edge portion 52 located below the first lower surface portion 18 and a second edge portion 53 (inclined edge portion) located on the inner side of the second lower surface portion 19 in the vehicle width direction. The first edge portion 52 extends in a planar shape from the lower end of the first lower surface portion 18 toward the rear and downward of the vehicle. The second edge portion 53 is a portion located adjacent to the outer side of a first inclined surface 31 of the shield member 30 (described later) in the vehicle width direction, and extends in a planar shape from the inner end of the second lower surface portion 19 toward the rear and inner side in the vehicle width direction. In other words, the second edge portion 53 is formed in a planar shape that slopes toward the outer side in the vehicle width direction and toward the front of the vehicle. The first edge portion 52 has a surface covered by the shield member 30 and is therefore invisible from the outside of the vehicle (see FIG. 6). In contrast, the second edge portion 53 has a surface not covered by the shield member 30 and is therefore visible from the outside of the vehicle (see FIG. 7).

[0023] As shown in FIG. 5 , the light source 21 includes an upper light source 22 and a lower light source 25. The upper light source 22 is a light source 21 that irradiates light onto the upper surface portion 14, and the lower light source 25 is a light source 21 that irradiates light onto the lower surface portion 17 in a manner different from that of the upper light source 22. In other words, the upper light source 22 and the lower light source 25 irradiate light differently. Therefore, the manner in which light passes through the upper surface portion 14 and the lower surface portion 17 also differs. The "mode" here refers to the state of how the light irradiated from the light source 21 appears (how it shines) to those outside the vehicle (other vehicles and surrounding pedestrians). For example, the "mode" here includes the color, brightness, illuminance, timing of lighting, shape of the lit portion, and lighting state (cycle of fluctuation, duration of time-dependent fluctuation), etc.

[0024] Preferably, different functions (in other words, different roles or meanings) are assigned to each of the upper light source 22 and the lower light source 25. For example, the functions referred to here include a function as a light source for a headlight (a function as a low beam light source and a function as a high beam light source), a function as a light source for a daytime running light, a function as a light source for a turn signal, a function as a light source for a fog lamp, a function as a light source for a side lamp (small lamp), and the like.

[0025] Instead of differentiating the way the upper light source 22 and the lower light source 25 shine, it is also possible to change the way light appears by differentiating the composition or structure of the upper surface portion 14 and the lower surface portion 17. For example, the lower surface portion 17 may be formed to transmit or reflect light in a manner different from that of the upper surface portion 14. In this case, the lower light source 25 does not have to shine in a manner different from that of the upper light source 22, or the lower light source 25 may be omitted and multiple light appearances may be achieved with a single light source 21.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 5 , the upper light source 22 of this embodiment is provided with a first upper light source 23 and a second upper light source 24. The first upper light source 23 is a light source 21 that irradiates the first upper surface portion 15 with light, and the second upper light source 24 is a light source 21 that irradiates the second upper surface portion 16 with light. As shown in FIG. 6 , the first upper light source 23 is disposed inside the first upper surface portion 15, and the second upper light source 24 is disposed inside the second upper surface portion 16. Both the first upper light source 23 and the second upper light source 24 serve as light sources for daytime running lights (DRLs) and turn signals (turn lamps), and also serve as position lamps (side lamps) at night. The lighting portions of both the first upper light source 23 and the second upper light source 24 are planar. The first upper light source 23 illuminates almost the entire first upper surface portion 15 in a planar manner (panel-like illumination), and the second upper light source 24 illuminates almost the entire second upper surface portion 16 in a planar manner (panel-like illumination). In the example shown in FIG. 5, the lit portion of the first upper light source 23 and the lit portion of the second upper light source 24 are integrated.

[0027] 5, the lower light source 25 of this embodiment is provided with a first lower light source 26 and a second lower light source 27. The first lower light source 26 is a light source 21 that irradiates light onto the first lower surface portion 18, and the second lower light source 27 is a light source 21 that irradiates light onto the second lower surface portion 19 and the second edge portion 53. The first lower light source 26 serves as a light source for the headlight, and the second lower light source 27 serves as a light source for the daytime running lights (DRLs) and turn indicators (turn lamps), and also serves as a position lamp at night.

[0028] The first lower light source 26 has a planar shape, whereas the second lower light source 27 has a linear shape. The first lower light source 26 lights up almost the entire first lower surface portion 18 in a planar shape (panel-shaped light emission), and the second lower light source 27 lights up a part of the second lower surface portion 19 in a linear shape (line-shaped light emission). In the example shown in FIG. 5, the shape of the lighting portion is set so that the second lower light source 27 draws multiple lines that are almost parallel to the second bend portion 13. The number of each of the first lower light sources 26 and the second lower light sources 27 can be set arbitrarily. In the example shown in FIG. 5, two first lower light sources 26 (two surfaces) are provided, and five second lower light sources 27 (five lines) are provided.

[0029] The roles (functions) and lighting shapes of the first upper light source 23, the second upper light source 24, the first lower light source 26, and the second lower light source 27 in this embodiment are shown in Table 1 below. The roles and lighting shapes shown here are merely specific examples of roles and lighting shapes that can be set in this embodiment. The role and lighting shape of the light source 21 are not limited to those shown in Table 1.

[0030] [Table 1]

[0031] The shield member 30 is a plate-shaped member that is attached inside the lamp housing portion 2 so as to be adjacent to and below the lamp unit 3. The shield member 30 is formed in a shape that is recessed more inward of the lamp housing portion 2 than the lamp unit 3 (in a direction approaching the space below the hood 4). The shield member 30 is also disposed below the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion) and inside the second lower surface portion 19 in the vehicle width direction. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the shield member 30 is provided with a first inclined surface 31, a second inclined surface 32, and a third inclined surface 33.

[0032] The first inclined surface 31 is a portion formed in a plane that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction and toward the rear of the vehicle. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the first inclined surface 31 when cut by a horizontal plane is a shape that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction and toward the rear of the vehicle. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the first inclined surface 31 when cut by a plane perpendicular to the vehicle width direction is formed, for example, into a shape that is close to vertical, and preferably has a shape that slopes downward toward the front.

[0033] The second inclined surface 32 is a portion disposed adjacent to the upper portion of the first inclined surface 31 directly below the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion). The second inclined surface 32 is formed in a surface shape that slopes upward toward the front of the vehicle. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the second inclined surface 32 when cut by a plane perpendicular to the vehicle width direction is a shape that slopes upward toward the front of the vehicle. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the second inclined surface 32 when cut by a horizontal plane is a shape that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction toward the rear of the vehicle, similar to the first inclined surface 31, for example. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the second inclined surface 32 of this embodiment is formed in a triangular plane shape whose vertical dimension increases toward the outer side in the vehicle width direction.

[0034] The third inclined surface 33 is a portion disposed adjacent to the lower portion of the first inclined surface 31. The third inclined surface 33 is formed as a surface that slopes downward toward the front of the vehicle. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the third inclined surface 33 when cut by a plane perpendicular to the vehicle width direction is a shape that slopes downward toward the front of the vehicle. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the third inclined surface 33 when cut by a horizontal plane is a shape that slopes toward the rear of the vehicle and outward in the vehicle width direction, similar to, for example, the first inclined surface 31 and the second inclined surface 32.

[0035] As shown in Figures 3 and 6, the second inclined surface 32 is provided so as to cover the first edge portion 52 of the outer lens 10 when the shield member 30 is fixed to the vehicle. In contrast, the first inclined surface 31 and the third inclined surface 33 are provided so as to expose the second edge portion 53 of the outer lens 10 when the shield member 30 is fixed to the vehicle (see Figure 7). Therefore, the second edge portion 53 is a portion that is visible from outside the vehicle. When the second lower light source 27 is turned on, its light passes through the second lower surface portion 19 and the second edge portion 53 and is radiated to the outside.

[0036] An inner edge portion forming the inner side in the vehicle width direction of the first inclined surface 31 extends obliquely downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the inner end portion in the vehicle width direction of the first lower surface portion 18. An outer edge portion forming the outer side in the vehicle width direction of the first inclined surface 31 extends obliquely downward and outward in the vehicle width direction so as to follow the inner side in the vehicle width direction of the second edge portion 53. An upper edge portion of the third inclined surface 33 extends outward in the vehicle width direction so as to follow the lower sides of the second lower surface portion 19 and the second edge portion 53.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 3, an upper frame portion 40 is disposed above the radiator grille 5. The upper frame portion 40 extends in the vehicle width direction along the front edge of the hood 4 and is a portion that supports the upper edge of the radiator grille 5. In other words, the upper frame portion 40 is a frame-shaped portion that surrounds the radiator grille 5 and to which the upper portion of the radiator grille 5 is fixed. As shown in Fig. 1, the position of the upper frame portion 40 in a front view of the vehicle is set, for example, directly below the hood 4 at a position that connects the upper ends of the left and right lamp units 3 approximately horizontally.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 3 , the upper frame portion 40 is provided with an upper frame bending portion 41, an upper frame upper surface portion 42, and an upper frame front portion 43. Like the bending portion 11 of the outer lens 10, the upper frame bending portion 41 is formed by extending a portion that protrudes forward in the vehicle width direction. This upper frame bending portion 41 is disposed at a position that is a direct extension of the bending portion 11 of the outer lens 10 inward in the vehicle width direction. In other words, the position of the upper frame bending portion 41 is set so that a design in which the upper frame bending portion 41 and the bending portion 11 are smoothly connected is realized in the vehicle front structure 1. Note that the cross-sectional shape when the upper frame portion 40 is cut in a plane perpendicular to the vehicle width direction is a shape that is bent in a "L" shape at the upper frame bending portion 41, similar to the cross-sectional shape when the outer lens 10 is cut in a plane perpendicular to the vehicle width direction.

[0039] Upper frame upper surface portion 42 is a planar portion located above upper frame bent portion 41, and is formed in a shape that slopes downward toward the front. Upper frame upper surface portion 42 is located at a position where the surface of upper surface portion 14 of outer lens 10 is extended inward in the vehicle width direction. In other words, the position of upper frame upper surface portion 42 is set so that a design in which upper frame upper surface portion 42 and upper surface portion 14 are smoothly connected in vehicle front structure 1 is realized.

[0040] The upper frame front surface portion 43 is a planar portion located below the upper frame bending portion 41, and extends downward from the upper frame bending portion 41. The upper frame front surface portion 43 is located at a position where the surface of the lower surface portion 17 of the outer lens 10 is extended inward in the vehicle width direction. In other words, the position of the upper frame front surface portion 43 is set so that the vehicle front structure 1 has a design in which the upper frame front surface portion 43 and the lower surface portion 17 are smoothly connected.

[0041] A vertical frame portion 44 is disposed between the radiator grille 5 and the lamp unit 3. The vertical frame portion 44 is a frame-shaped portion surrounding the radiator grille 5, to which the left and right ends of the radiator grille 5 are fixed. The vertical frame portion 44 extends along the shapes of the left and right ends of the radiator grille 5. The vertical frame portion 44 is provided with a vertical frame front portion 45 formed in a plane shape that connects to the upper frame front portion 43. The vertical frame front portion 45 extends linearly from the outer end of the upper frame front portion 43 in the vehicle width direction toward the outside and downward in the vehicle width direction. In other words, the vertical frame front portion 45 is provided so as to form an inclined straight line along the inner edge portion that forms the inner side in the vehicle width direction of the first inclined surface 31.

[0042] 2 and 3, a lower surface portion 46 and a bumper surface portion 47 are provided below the lamp housing portion 2, and a fender surface portion 48 and a fender arch portion 49 are provided on the outer side of the lamp housing portion 2 in the vehicle width direction. All of these are part of the outer panel that constitutes the front end portion of the vehicle and are formed from a metal plate or resin. The lower surface portion 46, the bumper surface portion 47, the fender surface portion 48, and the fender arch portion 49 may be formed integrally, or some (or all) of them may be formed separately.

[0043] The lower surface portion 46 is a portion adjacent to the lower side of the lamp housing portion 2 and is provided below the shield member 30. The lower surface portion 46 is smoothly connected to the vertical frame front portion 45. The cross-sectional shape of the lower surface portion 46 when cut along a plane perpendicular to the vehicle width direction is a shape that slopes downward toward the front of the vehicle. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the lower surface portion 46 when cut along a horizontal plane is a shape that slopes toward the rear of the vehicle and outward in the vehicle width direction. Preferably, the lower surface portion 46 is formed in a curved shape, and the end portion of the lower surface portion 46 on the outer side in the vehicle width direction is smoothly connected to the fender surface portion 48.

[0044] The bumper surface portion 47 is a planar portion located below the lower surface portion 46. When the bumper surface portion 47 is cut along a plane perpendicular to the vehicle width direction, the cross-sectional shape thereof slopes upward toward the front of the vehicle. When the bumper surface portion 47 is cut along a horizontal plane, the cross-sectional shape thereof slopes outward in the vehicle width direction toward the rear of the vehicle. Preferably, the bumper surface portion 47 is formed into a curved surface, and the outer end of the bumper surface portion 47 in the vehicle width direction is smoothly connected to the fender arch portion 49.

[0045] The fender arch portion 49 is a planar portion that is arranged along the outer edge of the wheel housing of the front wheel. The overall shape of the fender arch portion 49 is a semicircular arc. The fender surface portion 48 is a planar portion that is provided to connect the fender arch portion 49 and the hood 4, and forms the side surface at the front end of the vehicle. The fender surface portion 48 is provided adjacent to the lamp housing portion 2 on the outer side in the vehicle width direction.

[0046] [2. Actions and Effects] (1) The vehicle front structure 1 according to this embodiment includes a lamp unit 3 and a shield member 30. The lamp unit 3 includes an outer lens 10 having a first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion) extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lower surface portion 19 (second lens portion) extending in the up-down direction, and a light source 21 disposed inside the outer lens 10. The shield member 30 is formed in a shape recessed inward from the lamp unit 3 and disposed inside the second lower surface portion 19 (second lens portion) in the vehicle width direction. The shield member 30 also has a first inclined surface 31 formed in a plane that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction and toward the rear of the vehicle. An inner edge portion of the first inclined surface 31 forming an inner side in the vehicle width direction extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the inner end of the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion).

[0047] In this way, by forming the planar first inclined surface 31 that slopes outward in the vehicle width direction and toward the rear of the vehicle, water droplets adhering to the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion) can be easily scattered to the outside of the vehicle. Furthermore, by extending the inner edge portion of the first inclined surface 31 downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the end of the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion) on the inner side in the vehicle width direction, water droplets are less likely to accumulate near the inner edge portion, and scattering of water droplets to the outside of the vehicle can be promoted. Therefore, the visibility of the lamp unit 3 to the outside of the vehicle can be improved, and information emitted from the lamp unit 3 can be clearly and easily displayed with a simple configuration. Furthermore, since water droplets are prevented from accumulating on the lamp unit 3, the aesthetics and luxury feel of the vehicle front structure 1 can be enhanced.

[0048] (2) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the shield member 30 of this embodiment has a second inclined surface 32. The second inclined surface 32 is disposed adjacent to the upper part of the first inclined surface 31 and is formed as a surface that slopes upward toward the front of the vehicle. By providing such a second inclined surface 32, water droplets adhering to the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion) tend to flow down the second inclined surface 32 to the first inclined surface 31. In other words, it is possible to prevent water droplets from accumulating on the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion), thereby improving the visibility and aesthetics of the lamp unit 3.

[0049] 6, the surface gradient of the second inclined surface 32 is a gradient that points slightly downward (a surface gradient in which the angle of the normal to the horizontal plane is a depression angle), and the surface appears dark when viewed from outside the vehicle (a surface that is not easily exposed to sunlight and is prone to being in shadow). This makes it possible to highlight the contrast between the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion), which appears bright, and the second inclined surface 32, which appears dark, and further improves the visibility and aesthetics of the lamp unit 3.

[0050] (3) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the second inclined surface 32 of this embodiment is formed in a triangular planar shape whose vertical dimension increases toward the outside in the vehicle width direction. This shape makes it easier for water droplets flowing down the surface of the second inclined surface 32 to flow toward the outside in the vehicle width direction along the boundary with the first inclined surface 31. This further improves the visibility and aesthetics of the lamp unit 3. Furthermore, compared to when the surface shape of the second inclined surface 32 is curved, the configuration of the shield member 30 is simplified, and the visibility and aesthetics of the lamp unit 3 can be improved without increasing costs.

[0051] (4) The outer lens 10 of this embodiment is provided with a second edge portion 53 (inclined edge portion). As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7 , the second edge portion 53 (inclined edge portion) is disposed adjacent to the outer side of the first inclined surface 31 of the shield member 30 in the vehicle width direction, and is formed as a surface that slopes toward the front of the vehicle and outward in the vehicle width direction. By providing the second edge portion 53 (inclined edge portion) in a position adjacent to the outer side of the first inclined surface 31 in the vehicle width direction, water droplets flowing down the first inclined surface 31 can be made to flow downward along the boundary with the second edge portion 53 (inclined edge portion), thereby suppressing adhesion of water droplets to or leakage from the second lower surface portion 19 (second lens portion). This further improves the visibility and aesthetics of the lamp unit 3.

[0052] 7, the surface gradient of the second edge portion 53 (inclined edge portion) is a gradient that faces forward and inward in the vehicle width direction. In other words, light emitted from the second lower light source 27 passes through the second lower surface portion 19 and is emitted outward in the vehicle width direction, and at the same time, passes through the second edge portion 53 (inclined edge portion) and is emitted inward in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, the lit state of the second lower surface portion 19 (second lens portion) becomes easier to see from both the front right side and the front left side of the vehicle, and the visibility of the lamp unit 3 can be improved.

[0053] The second lower light source 27 in this embodiment serves as a light source for a direction indicator (turn lamp). Therefore, for example, when turning right, the flashing state of the second lower surface portion 19 of the right lamp unit 3 can be seen by pedestrians on the front left side of the vehicle as well as on the front right side of the vehicle. Also, when turning left, the flashing state of the second lower surface portion 19 of the left lamp unit 3 can be seen by pedestrians on the front right side of the vehicle as well as on the front left side of the vehicle. Therefore, information about the turning direction can be clearly and easily displayed to those outside the vehicle (other vehicles and surrounding pedestrians). In particular, safety performance can be improved compared to vehicles that only display information about the turning direction on the side of the turning direction.

[0054] (5) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the shield member 30 of this embodiment has a third inclined surface 33. The third inclined surface 33 is disposed adjacent to the lower part of the first inclined surface 31 and is formed as a surface that slopes downward toward the front of the vehicle. With this configuration, water droplets that have flowed down the surface of the first inclined surface 31 of the shield member 30 can be received by the third inclined surface 33 and flow downward. This makes it possible to prevent water droplets from being guided to the second lower surface portion 19 (second lens portion), thereby preventing deterioration of visibility and a deterioration in aesthetics.

[0055] (6) As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the vehicle front structure 1 of this embodiment is provided with a lower surface portion 46. The lower surface portion 46 is provided below the shield member 30 and is formed in a curved shape that slopes downward toward the front of the vehicle and slopes outward in the vehicle width direction toward the rear of the vehicle. With this configuration, water droplets that have flowed down the surfaces of the first inclined surface 31 and the third inclined surface 33 of the shield member 30 can be guided downward and outward in the vehicle width direction, preventing them from re-adhering to the lamp unit 3. This further improves the visibility and aesthetics of the lamp unit 3.

[0056] (7) In this embodiment, an upper frame portion 40 is disposed above the radiator grille 5 of the vehicle. The upper frame portion 40 has an upper frame bent portion 41 formed by extending a portion that protrudes forward in the vehicle width direction, an upper frame upper surface portion 42 formed in a shape that slopes downward toward the front and is disposed above the upper frame bent portion 41, and an upper frame front surface portion 43 that extends downward from the upper frame bent portion 41. In addition, the upper frame bent portion 41 is disposed at a position that is an extension of the bent portion 11 (first bent portion 12), which is the upper edge of the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion), in the vehicle width direction.

[0057] In this way, by aligning the upper frame bent portion 41 and the bent portion 11 and arranging them to form a continuous curve (or straight line), the visibility of the lamp unit 3 can be improved. Also, compared to when the upper frame bent portion 41 is not present, the flow of wind during driving is less likely to be disturbed, and air resistance can be reduced. Furthermore, the upper ends of the outer lens 10 and the upper frame portion 40 are designed to be smoothly continuous, and the gap with the front end of the hood 4 is of a nearly constant width, giving the front mask of the vehicle a sophisticated impression.

[0058] (8) In this embodiment, a vertical frame portion 44 is disposed between the radiator grille 5 and the lamp unit 3. The vertical frame portion 44 has a planar shape that is connected to the upper frame front portion 43 and has a vertical frame front portion 45 that extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the outer end of the upper frame front portion 43 in the vehicle width direction. This configuration makes it possible to clearly separate the radiator grille 5 and the lamp unit 3, improving the visibility of the lamp unit 3. In addition, it is possible to smoothly guide the wind received by the upper frame front portion 43 downward and outward in the vehicle width direction, thereby reducing air resistance.

[0059] [3. Other] The above-described embodiment is merely illustrative, and is not intended to exclude various modifications and applications of techniques not explicitly described in the present embodiment. Each configuration of the present embodiment can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present embodiment. Furthermore, each configuration of the present embodiment can be selected or combined as needed.

[0060] For example, in the above embodiment, the lamp unit 3 is exemplified in which the light source 21 is fixed to the main body portion 20, but the light source 21 may be fixed to the outer lens 10, or the main body portion 20 may be omitted and the light source 21 may be fixed to the vehicle body. The lamp unit 3 may at least include the outer lens 10 provided with a first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion) and a second lower surface portion 19 (second lens portion), and the light source 21 disposed inside the outer lens 10. Note that in the above embodiment, the outer lens 10 is exemplified in which the bent portion 11, the upper surface portion 14, and the lower surface portion 17 are provided, but the bent portion 11 and the upper surface portion 14 may be omitted.

[0061] In the above embodiment, the shield member 30 is exemplified, in which the first inclined surface 31, the second inclined surface 32, and the third inclined surface 33 are formed, but the second inclined surface 32 and the third inclined surface 33 can be omitted. By extending at least the inner side in the vehicle width direction of the first inclined surface 31 downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the inner end of the first lower surface portion 18 (first lens portion) in the vehicle width direction, it is possible to realize a vehicle front structure 1 that exhibits the same effects as those of the above embodiment.

[0062] In the above embodiment, the vehicle front structure 1 is illustrated as having the upper frame portion 40 formed above the radiator grille 5, but the upper frame portion 40 can be omitted. Similarly, the upper frame bent portion 41, the upper frame upper surface portion 42, and the upper frame front portion 43 can also be omitted. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the vehicle front structure 1 is illustrated as having the vertical frame portion 44 formed between the radiator grille 5 and the lamp unit 3, but the vertical frame portion 44 can also be omitted. Similarly, the vertical frame front portion 45 can also be omitted. [Industrial Applicability]

[0063] The present invention is applicable to the manufacturing industry of vehicle front structures, the manufacturing industry of lamp units included in vehicle front structures, and the manufacturing industry of vehicles to which vehicle front structures are applied. [Explanation of symbols]

[0064] 1. Vehicle front structure 2 Lamp housing 3 Lamp unit 4. Food 5 Radiator Grille 10 outer lens 11 Bend 12 First bending part 13 Second bending part 14 Top part 15 First top section 16 Second top section 17 Bottom part 18 First lower surface portion (first lens portion) 19 Second lower surface portion (second lens portion) 20 Main body 21 Light source 22 Upper light source 23 First upper light source 24 Second upper light source 25 Lower light source 26 First lower light source 27 Second lower light source 30 Shielding material 31 First slope 32 Second slope 33 Third slope 40 Upper frame part 41 Upper frame bending part 42 Upper frame top surface 43 Upper frame front part 44 Vertical frame section 45 Vertical frame front part 46 Lower part 47 Bumper surface 48 Fender surface 49 Fender arch 50 Ridgeline 51 Edge 52 First edge 53 Second edge (inclined edge)

Claims

1. a lamp unit including an outer lens provided with a first lens portion extending in a vehicle width direction and a second lens portion extending in a vertical direction, and a light source disposed inside the outer lens; a shield member disposed below the first lens portion and on the inner side of the second lens portion in the vehicle width direction, the shield member has a first inclined surface formed in a surface shape that inclines toward the rear of the vehicle and extends outward in the vehicle width direction, an inner edge portion forming an inner side in the vehicle width direction of the first inclined surface extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from an inner end portion in the vehicle width direction of the first lens portion, The shield member has a second inclined surface that is disposed adjacent to an upper portion of the first inclined surface directly below the first lens portion and is formed in a plane shape that inclines upward toward the front of the vehicle. A vehicle front structure characterized by:

2. The second inclined surface is formed in a triangular planar shape whose vertical dimension increases toward the outer side in the vehicle width direction. The vehicle front structure according to claim 1 .

3. A lamp unit having an outer lens provided with a first lens portion extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lens portion extending in the up-down direction, and a light source disposed inside the outer lens; a shield member disposed below the first lens portion and on the inner side of the second lens portion in the vehicle width direction, the shield member has a first inclined surface formed in a surface shape that inclines toward the rear of the vehicle and extends outward in the vehicle width direction, an inner edge portion forming an inner side in the vehicle width direction of the first inclined surface extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from an inner end portion in the vehicle width direction of the first lens portion, The outer lens has an inclined edge portion that is disposed adjacent to the outer side of the first inclined surface in the vehicle width direction and is formed in a surface shape that inclines toward the front of the vehicle and extends outward in the vehicle width direction. A vehicle front structure characterized by:

4. A lamp unit having an outer lens provided with a first lens portion extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lens portion extending in the up-down direction, and a light source disposed inside the outer lens; a shield member disposed below the first lens portion and on the inner side of the second lens portion in the vehicle width direction, the shield member has a first inclined surface formed in a surface shape that inclines toward the rear of the vehicle and extends outward in the vehicle width direction, an inner edge portion forming an inner side in the vehicle width direction of the first inclined surface extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from an inner end portion in the vehicle width direction of the first lens portion, The shield member has a third inclined surface that is disposed adjacent to a lower portion of the first inclined surface and is formed in a plane shape that inclines downward toward the front of the vehicle. A vehicle front structure characterized by:

5. A lamp unit having an outer lens provided with a first lens portion extending in the vehicle width direction and a second lens portion extending in the up-down direction, and a light source disposed inside the outer lens; a shield member disposed below the first lens portion and on the inner side of the second lens portion in the vehicle width direction, the shield member has a first inclined surface formed in a surface shape that inclines toward the rear of the vehicle and extends outward in the vehicle width direction, an inner edge portion forming an inner side in the vehicle width direction of the first inclined surface extends downward and outward in the vehicle width direction from an inner end portion in the vehicle width direction of the first lens portion, a lower surface portion provided below the shield member, inclined downward toward the front of the vehicle, and formed in a curved shape inclined toward the rear of the vehicle toward the outside in the vehicle width direction; A vehicle front structure characterized by:

6. an upper frame portion disposed on an upper portion of a radiator grille of the vehicle; The upper frame portion has an upper frame bent portion formed by extending a portion that protrudes forward in the vehicle width direction, an upper frame upper surface portion that is formed in a shape that slopes downward toward the front and is arranged above the upper frame bent portion, and an upper frame front surface portion that extends downward from the upper frame bent portion, The upper frame bent portion is disposed at a position where the upper end side of the first lens portion is extended in the vehicle width direction. The vehicle front structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. a vertical frame portion disposed between the radiator grille and the lamp unit; The vertical frame portion has a vertical frame front portion formed in a plane shape connected to the upper frame front portion and extending outward and downward in the vehicle width direction from the outer end of the upper frame front portion in the vehicle width direction.

7. The vehicle front structure according to claim 6, wherein:

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