Vehicle lighting device and vehicle lamp

Abstract

To provide a vehicular illuminating device that hardly fails even if it is fitted to a socket to be fitted with a wedge base bulb, and can improve reliability related to electric connection with a socket terminal, and a vehicular lighting fixture.SOLUTION: A vehicular illuminating device according to an embodiment can be fitted to socket terminals of a socket provided in a vehicular lighting fixture. The vehicular illuminating device comprises: a housing comprising a housing part, and an insertion part provided in one end part of the housing part, having a plate shape, and to be fitted to the socket terminals; a light emitting element exposed from an end part on the side opposite to the side of the insertion part, in the housing part; a board comprising a wiring pattern electrically connected to the light emitting element, and provided inside the housing; and a pair of terminals provided across a central axis of the vehicular illuminating device in the thickness direction of the insertion part at a center in the width direction of the insertion part, and electrically connected to the wiring pattern of the board.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD An embodiment of the present invention relates to a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp. [Background technology]

[0002] Wedge base bulbs, which do not have a base, are used in vehicle lighting devices. Wedge base bulbs are incandescent bulbs. Therefore, from the viewpoints of power saving and long life, wedge base bulbs are increasingly being replaced with vehicle lighting devices equipped with light-emitting elements such as light-emitting diodes.

[0003] A wedge base bulb is installed by pushing it into a socket provided in a vehicle lamp. When a vehicle lighting device equipped with a light emitting element is used instead of a wedge base bulb, the socket in which the wedge base bulb is installed is generally designed to also allow the vehicle lighting device equipped with a light emitting element to be installed.

[0004] However, this approach creates the risk of accidentally inserting a wedge base bulb into a socket and a vehicle lighting device equipped with a light-emitting element. The lighting circuits for wedge base bulbs and those for vehicle lighting devices equipped with light-emitting elements have different configurations. Therefore, if a vehicle lighting device equipped with a light-emitting element is mistakenly inserted into a wedge base bulb socket, current may flow from the wedge base bulb's lighting circuit to the light-emitting element, potentially causing the light-emitting element to malfunction.

[0005] Also proposed is a vehicle lighting device that includes a substrate on which a light-emitting element is mounted and a housing to which a pair of lead wires is attached. When such a vehicle lighting device is attached to a socket, the resilience of the socket terminals holds the vehicle lighting device in the socket via the pair of lead wires. However, because the cross-sectional shape of the lead wires is circular, the lead wires and the socket terminals are in linear contact. This may weaken the force that holds the vehicle lighting device or reduce the reliability of the electrical connection between the lead wires and the socket terminals.

[0006] Furthermore, a vehicle lighting device has been proposed that includes a light-emitting element and a substrate provided with a wiring pattern having a pair of terminals. When such a vehicle lighting device is attached to a socket, the substrate is held in the socket via the terminals of the wiring pattern due to the elastic force of the socket terminals. However, because the terminals of the wiring pattern have low strength and are thin, repeated attachment and detachment of the vehicle lighting device may damage the terminals of the wiring pattern or reduce the reliability of the electrical connection.

[0007] Therefore, there was a need to develop a technology that would be less likely to break down even when installed in a socket for a wedge base bulb, and that could improve the reliability of the electrical connection with the socket terminal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-105652 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2021-082551 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp that are less likely to break down even when attached to a socket for a wedge base bulb, and that can improve the reliability of the electrical connection with the socket terminal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The vehicle lighting device according to the embodiment is a vehicle lighting device that can be attached to a socket terminal of a socket provided in a vehicle lamp. The vehicle lighting device includes a housing having a storage section and an insertion section that is provided at one end of the storage section, has a plate shape, and is attached to the socket terminal; a light emitting element that is exposed from an end of the storage section opposite to the insertion section; a substrate that has a wiring pattern electrically connected to the light emitting element and is provided inside the housing; and a wiring pattern that is electrically connected to the insertion section at the center of the insertion section in the width direction. , perpendicular to the width direction In the thickness direction, the central axis of the vehicle lighting device is sandwiched between opposite each other and a pair of terminals electrically connected to the wiring pattern of the substrate. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle lighting device and a vehicle lamp that are less likely to malfunction even when attached to a socket for attaching a wedge base bulb, and that can improve the reliability of the electrical connection with the socket terminal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a vehicle lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded view of the vehicle lighting device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a light-emitting portion and a connection portion. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] 5 is a schematic diagram of the terminal in FIG. 4 as viewed from the Y direction. [Figure 6] 5 is a schematic diagram of the terminal in FIG. 4 as viewed from the X direction. [Figure 7] 5A to 5C are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the function of the terminal. [Figure 8] 10A to 10C are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating other arrangements of the terminals. [Figure 9]10(a) and 10(b) are schematic process diagrams illustrating the bonding between a first contact portion and a connection pad according to another embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a light-emitting unit according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a vehicle lamp according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments will be illustrated with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like components are designated by like reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate. In addition, arrows X, Y, and Z in each figure represent three mutually orthogonal directions. For example, the Z direction is the direction in which the vehicle lighting device 1 is inserted into the socket 101 provided in the vehicle lamp 100. The X direction is the width direction of the insertion portion 42 of the housing 40. The Y direction is the thickness direction of the insertion portion 42 of the housing 40.

[0014] (Vehicle lighting device 1) The vehicle lighting device 1 according to this embodiment is a vehicle lighting device that can be attached to socket terminals 101a, 101b of a socket 101 provided in a vehicle lamp 100. Examples of the vehicle lighting device 1 include those used as room lamps, meter lamps, reading lights, brake lights, turn signals, tail lights, etc. that are provided in automobiles, railroad cars, etc. However, the uses of the vehicle lighting device 1 are not limited to these.

[0015] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a vehicle lighting device 1 according to this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic exploded view of the vehicle lighting device 1. In addition, the cover 30 is omitted from FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the light-emitting portion 10 and the connection portion 20. As shown in FIG. 3 shows the light emitting section 10 and the connection section 20 in FIG. 2 as viewed from the opposite side in the Y direction.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the vehicle lighting device 1 includes, for example, a light emitting unit 10, a connecting unit 20, a cover 30, a housing 40, and a terminal 50.

[0017] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the light-emitting section 10 includes, for example, a substrate 11 and a light-emitting element 12. The substrate 11 is, for example, plate-shaped and has a surface 11a and a surface 11b opposite to the surface 11a. The planar shape of the substrate 11 is, for example, a part of a circle including a center point. However, the planar shape of the substrate 11 is not limited to the example shown. The planar shape of the substrate 11 may be, for example, a polygon. The planar shape of the substrate 11 can be changed as appropriate depending on the number and arrangement of the light-emitting elements 12.

[0018] The substrate 11 can be made of an insulating material. The substrate 11 is made of, for example, an inorganic material such as ceramics (e.g., aluminum oxide or aluminum nitride), or an organic material such as paper phenol or glass epoxy. The substrate 11 may also be, for example, a metal core substrate in which the surface of a metal plate is coated with an insulating material.

[0019] When the light emitting element 12 generates a large amount of heat, it is preferable to form the substrate 11 using a material with high thermal conductivity from the viewpoint of heat dissipation. Examples of materials with high thermal conductivity include ceramics such as aluminum oxide and aluminum nitride, highly thermally conductive resins, and metal core substrates. Highly thermally conductive resins are, for example, resins such as PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) and nylon mixed with fillers such as aluminum oxide.

[0020] The thickness of the substrate 11 is, for example, about 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm, but the thickness of the substrate 11 is not limited to the example given and can be changed as appropriate.

[0021] A wiring pattern 11c is provided on a surface 11a of the substrate 11 opposite to the connection portion 20 side. The wiring pattern 11c has, for example, a mounting pad. The light emitting element 12 is electrically connected to the mounting pad. The wiring pattern 11c is formed of, for example, a low-resistance metal such as copper, aluminum, or silver.

[0022] The light emitting element 12 is exposed from the end of the housing portion 41 opposite to the insertion portion 42. At least one light emitting element 12 can be provided on the surface 11a of the substrate 11. The light emitting element 12 may be, for example, a light emitting diode, an organic light emitting diode, a laser diode, or the like. The light emitting element 12 may be, for example, a surface-mounted light emitting element such as a PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) type. The light emitting element 12 may also be, for example, a bullet-type light emitting element having leads. The light emitting element 12 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 is a surface-mounted light emitting element.

[0023] The light-emitting element 12 may also be a chip-type light-emitting element. The chip-type light-emitting element may be mounted, for example, by COB (Chip On Board). In this case, the surface 11a of the substrate 11 may be provided with the following components: a chip-type light-emitting element; wiring electrically connecting the chip-type light-emitting element to the wiring pattern 11c; a frame-shaped member surrounding the chip-type light-emitting element and wiring; and a sealing portion disposed inside the frame-shaped member and covering the chip-type light-emitting element and wiring. The sealing portion may also contain a phosphor. The phosphor may be, for example, a YAG-based phosphor (yttrium-aluminum-garnet-based phosphor). Note that the type of phosphor is not limited to the examples given. The type of phosphor may be appropriately changed to obtain a desired emission color depending on the application of the vehicle lighting device 1.

[0024] The light emitting surface of the light emitting element 12 can be approximately parallel to the surface 11a of the substrate 11. For example, the light emitting element 12 mainly emits light in a direction perpendicular to the surface 11a of the substrate 11. The number, size, arrangement, etc. of the light-emitting elements 12 are not limited to those exemplified, and can be changed as appropriate depending on the size and use of the vehicle lighting device 1. When multiple light-emitting elements 12 are provided, the multiple light-emitting elements 12 can be connected in series.

[0025] The connection portion 20 includes, for example, a substrate 21 and a circuit component 22 . The substrate 21 has a wiring pattern 21 e electrically connected to the light emitting element 12 , and is provided inside the housing 40 . The substrate 21 has, for example, a plate shape and extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the surface 11b of the substrate 11. The substrate 21 has, for example, a mounting portion 21a and an attachment portion 21b. The mounting portion 21a and the attachment portion 21b can be formed integrally.

[0026] When viewed from the Y direction, the shape of the mounting portion 21a can be, for example, a rectangle. One end of the mounting portion 21a is provided on the surface 11b of the substrate 11. For example, one end of the mounting portion 21a can be adhered to the surface 11b of the substrate 11. Alternatively, a protrusion can be provided on one end of the mounting portion 21a, and a hole, recess, groove, or the like can be provided on the surface 11b of the substrate 11 into which the protrusion of the mounting portion 21a fits.

[0027] The width W1 of the mounting portion 21a can be, for example, approximately 5.0 mm to 15.0 mm, but can be changed as appropriate depending on the size of the substrate 11 and the number and size of the circuit components 22. The width W1 of the mounting portion 21a is the dimension of the mounting portion 21a in the X direction. The thickness T1 of the mounting portion 21a can be set to, for example, about 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm. The thickness T1 of the mounting portion 21a is the dimension of the mounting portion 21a in the Y direction.

[0028] When viewed from the Y direction, the shape of the mounting portion 21b can be, for example, a rectangle. One end of the mounting portion 21b is provided at the end of the mounting portion 21a opposite to the substrate 11 side. The mounting portion 21b extends in a direction away from the substrate 11 from the end of the mounting portion 21a opposite to the substrate 11 side.

[0029] The width W2 of the attachment portion 21b is smaller than the width W1 of the mounting portion 21a. The thickness of the attachment portion 21b can be set to be the same as the thickness T1 of the mounting portion 21a. The attachment portion 21b can be provided, for example, at the center of the mounting portion 21a in the X direction.

[0030] The material of the substrate 21 (mounting portion 21a, attachment portion 21b) can be, for example, the same as the material of the substrate 11 described above. Heat generated in the light-emitting element 12 is transferred to the substrate 21 via the substrate 11, and is then released to the outside from the substrate 21 via the terminal 50 or the like. Therefore, in consideration of suppressing the temperature rise of the light-emitting element 12, it is preferable to form the substrate 21 using a material with high thermal conductivity. Examples of materials with high thermal conductivity include ceramics such as aluminum oxide and aluminum nitride, highly thermally conductive resins, and metal core substrates. In this case, the material of the substrate 21 may be the same as or different from the material of the substrate 11.

[0031] Wiring patterns 21e can be provided on surfaces 21c and 21d of substrate 21 (mounting portion 21a, attachment portion 21b). Wiring patterns 21e provided on surface 21c and wiring patterns 21e provided on surface 21d can be electrically connected, for example, via conductive vias. Wiring patterns 21e are formed of low-resistance metals such as copper, aluminum, and silver. Wiring patterns 21e are electrically connected to wiring patterns 11c provided on substrate 11 via connection portions 21e2. Connection portions 21e2 can be formed, for example, by soldering.

[0032] The circuit components 22 are mounted on the wiring pattern 21e provided on the mounting portion 21a. The wiring pattern 21e is electrically connected to connection pads 21e1 provided on the mounting portion 21b. The connection pads 21e1 can be formed integrally with the wiring pattern 21e, for example. The connection pads 21e1 are provided on surfaces 21c and 21d of the substrate 21 (mounting portion 21b). Each of the pair of connection pads 21e1 is electrically connected to socket terminals 101a and 101b provided on the socket 101 via a terminal 50. By electrically connecting the socket terminal 101a provided on the socket 101 to one of the connection pads 21e1 via the terminal 50, the socket terminal 101a can be electrically connected to an electrode of one polarity of the light-emitting element 12 via the wiring pattern 21e and the wiring pattern 11c. Furthermore, by electrically connecting the socket terminal 101b to the other connection pad 21e1 via the terminal 50, the socket terminal 101b can be electrically connected to the other polarity electrode of the light-emitting element 12 via the wiring pattern 21e and the wiring pattern 11c.

[0033] 2 and 3 illustrate an example in which the circuit components 22 are provided on both sides of the mounting portion 21a, the circuit components 22 may be provided on one side of the mounting portion 21a. However, if the circuit components 22 are provided on both sides of the mounting portion 21a, the mounting portion 21a can be made smaller, and therefore the vehicle lighting device 1 can be made smaller.

[0034] The circuit component 22 can be a passive or active element used to configure a light emitting circuit with the light emitting element 12 . The circuit component 22 may be, for example, a diode 22a, a resistor 22b, a capacitor 22c, or the like. However, the types of circuit components 22 are not limited to those exemplified above, and can be changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of the light-emitting circuit having the light-emitting element 12. For example, in addition to the above, the circuit components 22 may be positive temperature coefficient thermistors, negative temperature coefficient thermistors, Zener diodes, inductors, surge absorbers, varistors, transistors such as FETs and bipolar transistors, integrated circuits, arithmetic elements, etc. The integrated circuit may include, for example, at least one of a flashing circuit, a constant current circuit, and a lighting circuit (drive circuit).

[0035] Here, the light emitting element 12, such as a light emitting diode, has polarity. Therefore, a diode can be provided to prevent reverse voltage from being applied to the light emitting element 12. In this case, if there is no directionality when mounting the vehicle lighting device 1 in the socket 101 of the vehicle lamp 100, the mounting work of the vehicle lighting device 1 becomes easier.

[0036] For example, if a bridge circuit (bridge diode) is configured using four diodes, a non-polar circuit can be provided in the vehicle lighting device 1. The diode 22a illustrated in Fig. 3 is a so-called two-element diode. If the diode 22a is a two-element diode, a bridge circuit can be configured using two diodes 22a, thereby reducing the mounting area.

[0037] The resistor 22b may be, for example, a surface-mount resistor, a resistor with leads (metal oxide film resistor), or a film resistor formed by screen printing or the like. The resistor 22b illustrated in Fig. 2 is a surface-mount resistor. Using a surface-mount resistor allows the mounting area to be reduced.

[0038] Here, since there is variation in the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 12, if the voltage applied between the anode terminal and the ground terminal is constant, variation occurs in the brightness (luminous flux, luminance, luminous intensity, illuminance) of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 12. Therefore, to keep the brightness of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 12 within a predetermined range, the value of the current flowing through the light-emitting element 12 is controlled to be within a predetermined range by using the resistor 22b connected in series with the light-emitting element 12. In this case, by changing the resistance value of the resistor 22b, the value of the current flowing through the light-emitting element 12 can be controlled to be within the predetermined range.

[0039] For example, if the resistor 22b is a surface-mount resistor or a resistor with leads, the resistor 22b is selected to have an appropriate resistance value according to the forward voltage characteristics of the light-emitting element 12. For example, if the resistor 22b is a film resistor, the resistance value can be increased by removing a portion of the film resistor.

[0040] The resistor 22b can also serve to prevent an excessive current from flowing through the light emitting element 12. The number, size, arrangement, etc. of the resistors 22b are not limited to those exemplified, and can be changed as appropriate depending on the number and specifications of the light emitting elements 12, etc.

[0041] The capacitor 22c can be provided, for example, to suppress noise or smooth the voltage. The capacitor 22c can be, for example, a surface-mounted capacitor 22c. If the capacitor 22c is a surface-mounted capacitor, the mounting area can be reduced.

[0042] Furthermore, for example, at least a part of the circuit components 22 can be provided on the substrate 11. Also, for example, at least a part of the circuit components 22 can be provided in the housing 102 of the vehicle lamp 100 to which the vehicle lighting device 1 is attached. In this way, the configuration of the vehicle lighting device 1 can be simplified, thereby reducing the cost of the vehicle lighting device 1. However, if the circuit components 22 are provided in the vehicle lighting device 1, it becomes easier to protect the vehicle lighting device 1 and make it more multifunctional.

[0043] 1, the cover 30 can be provided on the light emission side of the light emitting unit 10. For example, the cover 30 can be provided so as to cover the surface 11a of the substrate 11. For example, the cover 30 is detachably attached to the housing 40. The cover 30 protects the light emitting unit 10 (light emitting elements 12).

[0044] The cover 30 can also be given the function of an optical element. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the tip of the cover 30 can be curved to give the cover 30 the function of a lens. In other words, by appropriately changing the shape of the cover 30 depending on the light distribution characteristics required for the vehicle lighting device 1, the cover 30 can be given the function of various optical elements.

[0045] The cover 30 may be transparent, or may be colored as long as it is translucent. The light exit surface of the cover 30 may be provided with irregularities to scatter light. The cover 30 may be coated with or contain light-scattering particles such as titanium oxide particles or fluorescent material. The inner and outer walls of the cover 30 may be provided with a film containing a material with high light reflectivity (for example, aluminum), giving the cover 30 the function of a reflector.

[0046] The cover 30 can be omitted. However, if the cover 30 is provided, it is possible to suppress the application of external force to the light emitting element 12, etc. Furthermore, if the cover 30 is given the function of an optical element such as a lens, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in the optical design of the vehicle lamp 100.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the housing 40 has a storage section 41 and an insertion section 42. The storage section 41 and the insertion section 42 can be formed integrally. The housing 40 (storage section 41, insertion section 42) can be formed from an insulating material such as resin. The housing 40 can be formed by, for example, injection molding.

[0048] The storage section 41 is cylindrical and has an opening at one end. The light-emitting section 10 (substrate 11) and the connection section 20 are stored inside the storage section 41. The substrate 11 can be provided so as to cover the opening of the storage section 41. This can prevent dust and other particles from entering the storage section 41. It can also stabilize the posture and position of the substrate 21. This can improve the reliability of the electrical connection between the connection pad 21e1 and the terminal 50. It can also prevent excessive force from acting on the terminal 50.

[0049] The insertion portion 42 has a plate shape and is provided at the end opposite to the opening side of the storage portion 41. The insertion portion 42 is attached to the socket terminals 101a, 101b. A space is provided inside the insertion portion 42 into which the attachment portion 21b of the board 21 is inserted. When viewed from the Y direction, the shape of the insertion portion 42 may be, for example, rectangular. The width dimension W3 of the insertion portion 42 may be, for example, approximately 6.0 mm to 16.0 mm. The width dimension W3 of the insertion portion 42 is the dimension of the insertion portion 42 in the X direction. The thickness T2 of the insertion portion 42 may be, for example, approximately 1.5 mm to 3.0 mm. The thickness T2 of the insertion portion 42 is the dimension of the insertion portion 42 in the Y direction.

[0050] Grooves 42c extending in the Z direction are provided on surfaces 42a and 42b of insertion portion 42. The ends of grooves 42c opposite to the storage portion 41 side are open. Groove 42c provided on surface 42a is provided in the center of surface 42a. Groove 42c provided on surface 42b is provided in the center of surface 42b. Second contact portions 52 of terminals 50 are provided in grooves 42c. Providing grooves 42c can prevent the position of second contact portions 52 from shifting in the X direction.

[0051] 2, a pair of terminals 50 may be provided. The pair of terminals 50 are provided in the center of the width direction of the insertion portion 42, in the thickness direction of the insertion portion 42, with the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1 sandwiched between them. The pair of terminals 50 are electrically connected to the wiring pattern 21e (connection pad 21e1) of the substrate 21. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the terminal 50. As shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the terminal 50 in FIG. 4 as viewed from the Y direction. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the terminal 50 in FIG. 4 as viewed from the X direction. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the function of the terminal 50. As shown in FIG.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, the terminal 50 has, for example, a first contact portion 51, a second contact portion 52, and a connecting portion 53. The second contact portion 52 faces the first contact portion 51. When viewed from the Y direction, the first contact portion 51 and the second contact portion 52 may have a rectangular shape. The first contact portion 51 and the second contact portion 52 extend in the Z direction. One end of the connecting portion 53 is connected to the first contact portion 51, and the other end of the connecting portion 53 is connected to the second contact portion 52. The connecting portion 53 extends in the Y direction.

[0053] The first contact portion 51, the second contact portion 52, and the connecting portion 53 are plate-shaped and integrally formed. The terminal 50 can be formed, for example, by bending a strip-shaped plate material using plastic processing. The terminal 50 is made of a conductive material. For example, the terminal 50 is made of a metal such as a copper alloy or stainless steel.

[0054] The first contact portion 51 is provided inside the insertion portion 42. A gap can be provided between the first contact portion 51 and the inner wall of the internal space of the insertion portion 42. The second contact portion 52 can be provided on the surface 42a of the insertion portion 42. In this case, the second contact portion 52 can also be provided in a groove 42c provided on the surface 42a of the insertion portion 42, or in a groove 42c provided on the surface 42b of the insertion portion 42. If the second contact portion 52 is provided in the groove 42c, it is possible to prevent the position of the second contact portion 52 from shifting. The second contact portion 52 comes into contact with the socket terminals 101a and 101b.

[0055] In this case, the terminal 50 can be formed by bending a strip-shaped plate material, and the formed terminal 50 can be inserted into the insertion portion 42. Alternatively, the terminal 50 can be formed by inserting one end side of the strip-shaped plate material into the insertion portion 42 and bending the strip-shaped plate material.

[0056] The width dimension W4 of the first contact portion 51, the second contact portion 52, and the connecting portion 53 can be, for example, about 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm. The width dimension W4 is the dimension of the first contact portion 51, the second contact portion 52, and the connecting portion 53 in the X direction. The thickness T3 of the first contact portion 51, the second contact portion 52, and the connecting portion 53 can be, for example, about 0.15 mm to 0.4 mm. The thickness T3 is the dimension of the first contact portion 51, the second contact portion 52, and the connecting portion 53 in the Y direction. The length L1 of the first contact portion 51 can be, for example, about 4.0 mm to 8.0 mm. The length L1 is the length of the first contact portion 51 in the Z direction. The length L2 of the second contact portion 52 can be, for example, about 4.0 mm to 11.0 mm. The length L2 is the length of the second contact portion 52 in the Z direction. The length L3 of the connecting portion 53 can be, for example, about 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm. The length L3 is the length of the connecting portion 53 in the Y direction.

[0057] 7, the first contact portion 51 is electrically connected to the wiring pattern 21e (connection pad 21e1) provided on the mounting portion 21b of the substrate 21. Therefore, when the vehicle lighting device 1 is mounted in the socket 101 of the vehicle lamp 100, the socket terminals 101a and 101b of the socket 101 and the light-emitting element 12 of the vehicle lighting device 1 are electrically connected via the terminal 50, the wiring pattern 21e, and the wiring pattern 11c.

[0058] The first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 can be in direct contact with each other. However, the vehicle lighting device 1 is subjected to vibrations caused by driving, etc. If a gap occurs between the first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 due to vibrations, etc., the electrical connection between the first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 may be impaired or the electrical resistance may increase.

[0059] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7, the first contact portion 51 is provided with a biasing portion 51a. The biasing portion 51a biases the first contact portion 51 toward the wiring pattern 21e (connection pad 21e1). For example, the biasing portion 51a extends from the surface of the first contact portion 51 facing the second contact portion 52 toward the second contact portion 52. The biasing portion 51a is inclined with respect to the direction in which the first contact portion 51 extends (the Z direction). The vicinity of the tip of the biasing portion 51a contacts the inner wall of a hole 42d or the inner wall of a recess provided in the inner wall of the internal space of the insertion portion 42. If the vicinity of the tip of the biasing portion 51a is provided inside the hole 42d, etc., it is possible to prevent the position of the first contact portion 51 from shifting.

[0060] When a force toward the inner wall of insertion portion 42 (a force in a direction away from connection pad 21e1) acts on first contact portion 51 due to vibration or the like, first contact portion 51 is pushed back toward connection pad 21e1 by the elastic force of biasing portion 51a. This makes it possible to prevent a gap from being generated between first contact portion 51 and connection pad 21e1, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connection between first contact portion 51 and connection pad 21e1.

[0061] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating another arrangement of the terminals 50. In FIG. The terminal 50 illustrated in FIG. 7 is provided in the insertion portion 42 so that the connection portion 53 is located on the opposite side to the storage portion 41 in the Z direction. In contrast, the terminal 50 illustrated in FIG. 8 is provided in the insertion portion 42 so that the connection portion 53 is located on the storage portion 41 side in the Z direction. Even in this case, the same effects as those of the terminal 50 illustrated in FIG. 7 can be obtained.

[0062] The first contact portion 51 can also be bonded to the wiring pattern 21e (connection pad 21e1) using a conductive material. When the first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 are bonded using a conductive material, the biasing portion 51a can be omitted.

[0063] The conductive material is, for example, solder or a conductive adhesive. If the first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 are joined, the electrical connection between the first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 can be maintained even if vibrations caused by running or the like are applied. In addition, it is possible to prevent the light-emitting unit 10 and the connection portion 20 from falling off the housing 40.

[0064] For example, the first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 can be joined by applying a paste-like conductive material to the connection pad 21e1 of the mounting portion 21b, mounting the light-emitting portion 10 and the connection portion 20 inside the housing 40 to which the terminal 50 is attached, and then hardening the paste-like conductive material.

[0065] 9(a) and 9(b) are schematic process views illustrating the bonding between the first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 according to another embodiment. First, as shown in FIG. 9(a), a strip-shaped conductive member 50a is bonded to the connection pad 21e1 using a conductive material. Next, as shown in FIG. 9(b), the light emitting section 10 and the connection section 20 to which the strip-shaped conductive member 50a is joined are mounted inside the housing 40 (insertion section 42). Subsequently, the strip-shaped conductive member 50 a is bent to form the terminal 50 having the first contact portion 51 , the second contact portion 52 , and the connecting portion 53 . Even in this way, the first contact portion 51 and the connection pad 21e1 can be joined.

[0066] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a light-emitting unit 10a according to another embodiment. In the light-emitting section 10 illustrated in FIG. 2, the light-emitting element 12 mainly emits light in a direction perpendicular to the surface 11a of the substrate 11 (for example, the Z direction). 10, the light-emitting element 12 mainly emits light in a direction parallel to the surface 11a of the substrate 11 (for example, the Y direction). In the light-emitting unit 10a, the light-emitting element 12 is also exposed from the end of the storage section 41 opposite to the insertion section 42 side. For example, as shown in Fig. 10, a substrate 12a can be provided on a surface 11a of a substrate 11, and a light emitting element 12 can be provided on the surface of the substrate 12a.

[0067] Furthermore, the substrate 12a and the substrate 21 can be integrated. For example, the end of the mounting portion 21a opposite to the attachment portion 21b can be protruded from the surface 11a of the substrate 11 to form the substrate 12a. In this way, the light-emitting element 12 and the circuit components 22 can be provided on the substrate 21, which simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces manufacturing costs. Note that when the substrate 12a and the substrate 21 are integrated, there is no need to provide the wiring pattern 11c on the substrate 11. Also, the substrate 11 can be omitted. However, if the substrate 11 is provided, the posture of the substrate 12a integrated with the substrate 21 can be stabilized. Furthermore, the intrusion of dust and the like into the housing 40 can be prevented.

[0068] In the case of a wedge base bulb, a pair of lead wires are provided across the width of the flat portion of the wedge base bulb that is inserted into the socket terminal, sandwiching the central axis of the wedge base bulb. Therefore, a vehicle lighting device with a light-emitting element that can be attached to a socket in which a wedge base bulb is attached also has a pair of wiring pattern terminals across the central axis of the vehicle lighting device, sandwiched across the width of the flat portion that is inserted into the socket terminal. If the lead wires of the wedge base bulb and the wiring pattern terminals of the vehicle lighting device that has a light-emitting element are arranged in the same way, if a vehicle lighting device with a light-emitting element is mistakenly attached to a wedge base bulb socket, current may flow from the wedge base bulb's lighting circuit to the light-emitting element, causing the light-emitting element to malfunction.

[0069] In contrast, in the case of the vehicle lighting device 1 according to this embodiment, a pair of terminals 50 are provided on either side of the central axis 1a of the vehicle lighting device 1 in the thickness direction (direction perpendicular to the width direction) of the insertion portion 42 of the housing 40. That is, the arrangement of the pair of terminals 50 is different from the arrangement of the lead wires of a wedge base bulb. Therefore, even if the vehicle lighting device 1 is mistakenly attached to a socket for a wedge base bulb, it is possible to prevent current from flowing through the light-emitting element 12.

[0070] Furthermore, the surface of second contact portion 52 facing socket terminals 101a and 101b is flat, which increases the contact area between terminal 50 and socket terminals 101a and 101b, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connection between terminal 50 and socket terminals 101a and 101b. In addition, since the second contact portion 52 is made of a plate material, it is stronger and thicker than the terminal of the wiring pattern, so even if the vehicle lighting device 1 is repeatedly attached and detached, it is possible to prevent the second contact portion 52 of the terminal 50 from being damaged or the reliability of the electrical connection from being reduced.

[0071] In other words, the vehicle lighting device 1 according to this embodiment is less likely to break down even when mounted in a socket for mounting a wedge base bulb, and can improve the reliability of the connection with the socket terminals 101a, 101b.

[0072] (vehicle lighting fixture 100) In one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle lamp 100 can be provided that includes the vehicle lighting device 1. The above-mentioned description of the vehicle lighting device 1 and the modified examples of the vehicle lighting device 1 (for example, the above-mentioned light-emitting unit 10a, etc.) can all be applied to the vehicle lamp 100.

[0073] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a vehicle lamp 100 according to this embodiment. In the following, an example will be given in which one vehicle lighting device 1 is provided, but it is sufficient that at least one vehicle lighting device 1 is provided.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 11, a vehicle lamp 100 may include, for example, a vehicle lighting device 1, a socket 101, a housing 102, and a cover 103.

[0075] The socket 101 can be provided in a housing 102. An insertion portion 42 of a housing 40 provided in the vehicle lighting device 1 is inserted into the socket 101. The socket 101 is formed from an insulating material such as resin. Furthermore, although FIG. 11 illustrates an example in which the socket 101 and the housing 102 are provided separately, the socket 101 and the housing 102 may be integrally formed.

[0076] The socket 101 may be provided with a recess that opens at one end. The vehicle lighting device 1 (insertion portion 42) is inserted into the recess. The recess may also be provided with a socket terminal 101a corresponding to one voltage polarity (e.g., positive) and a socket terminal 101b corresponding to the other voltage polarity (e.g., negative). As described above, as long as the vehicle lighting device 1 is provided with a non-polarity circuit, the mounting direction of the vehicle lighting device 1 (insertion portion 42) is not limited.

[0077] The socket terminals 101a and 101b are capable of elastic deformation. When the insertion portion 42 is inserted into the recess, the socket terminals 101a and 101b are electrically connected to the terminals 50, respectively.

[0078] The socket terminals 101a and 101b can be electrically connected to a lighting circuit or the like provided outside the vehicle lamp 100. The lighting circuit can also be provided at least either inside or on the outer surface of the housing 102.

[0079] The housing 102 may be shaped like a box with one end open, for example, and may be made of a material such as a resin that does not transmit light. The cover 103 can be provided so as to cover the opening of the housing 102. The cover 103 can be formed from a light-transmitting resin or the like. The cover 103 can have a function such as a lens, or can suppress glare. The cover 103 can be provided on the housing 102 so as to be openable and closable, or so as to be detachable.

[0080] Additionally, optical elements such as reflectors and lenses may be provided inside the housing 102 .

[0081] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, etc. can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as set forth in the claims. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be implemented in combination with each other. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Vehicle lighting device, 1a central axis, 10 light-emitting portion, 12 light-emitting element, 20 connection portion, 21 substrate, 21e wiring pattern, 22 circuit component, 30 cover, 40 housing, 41 storage portion, 42 insertion portion, 50 terminal, 51 first contact portion, 51a biasing portion, 52 second contact portion, 53 connection portion, 100 vehicle lamp, 101 socket, 101a socket terminal, 101b socket terminal

Claims

1. A vehicle lighting device that can be attached to a socket terminal of a socket provided in a vehicle lamp, a housing having a storage section and a plate-shaped insertion section provided at one end of the storage section and attached to the socket terminal; a light emitting element exposed from an end of the storage section opposite to the insertion section; a substrate provided inside the housing and having a wiring pattern electrically connected to the light emitting element; a pair of terminals provided at the center of the width direction of the insertion portion in a thickness direction of the insertion portion perpendicular to the width direction, facing each other across a central axis of the vehicle lighting device, and electrically connected to the wiring pattern of the board; A vehicle lighting device equipped with:

2. The terminal is a first contact portion provided inside the insertion portion and electrically connected to the wiring pattern; a second contact portion provided on an outer surface of the insertion portion, facing the first contact portion, and contacting the socket terminal; a connecting portion having one end connected to the first contact portion and the other end connected to the second contact portion; 2. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. the first contact portion, the second contact portion, and the connecting portion are plate-shaped and integrally formed, 3. The vehicle lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the first contact portion is joined to the wiring pattern by a conductive material.

4. the first contact portion, the second contact portion, and the connecting portion are plate-shaped and integrally formed, The vehicle lighting device according to claim 2 , wherein the first contact portion has a biasing portion that biases the first contact portion toward the wiring pattern.

5. The vehicle lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4; a socket having a pair of socket terminals into which an insertion portion of a housing provided in the vehicle lighting device is inserted and which is electrically connected to terminals provided in the vehicle lighting device; A vehicle lighting fixture equipped with:

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