Light distribution control device, vehicle lighting system, and light distribution control method

Abstract

A light distribution control device 10 controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by a variable light distribution lamp. In a situation in which a normal light distribution pattern is formed, the normal light distribution including, in the illumination range, a travel path side and a non-travel path side of a vehicle at a branch road, the light distribution control device 10 controls, when the vehicle arrives at a first point a predetermined distance before the branch road, a variable light distribution lamp so as to form a guiding light distribution pattern in which the illuminance of light emitted to the non-travel path side is reduced and the illuminance of the light emitted to the travel path side is higher than the illuminance of the light emitted to the non-travel path side.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a light distribution control device, a vehicle lighting system, and a light distribution control method. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, ADB (Adaptive Driving Beam) control has been proposed, which dynamically and adaptively controls the light distribution pattern based on the conditions around the vehicle. ADB control uses a camera to detect the presence of a dimming target located in front of the vehicle that should be avoided from being illuminated with high-intensity light, and dims the area corresponding to the dimming target (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Dimming targets include vehicles ahead, such as a preceding vehicle or an oncoming vehicle. By dimming the area corresponding to the vehicle ahead, it is possible to reduce the glare given to the driver of the vehicle ahead while improving the visibility of the driver of the vehicle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-088224 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] 1. As a result of extensive research into ADB control of vehicle lighting fixtures, the present inventors have come up with a novel method for assisting the driver in driving.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and one of its objectives is to provide a technology for assisting a driver in driving.

[0006] 2. As a result of extensive research into ADB control of vehicle lighting fixtures, the inventors have come to realize that there is room for reducing the discomfort felt by the driver of a preceding vehicle in conventional ADB control.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and one of its objectives is to provide a technique for reducing the sense of discomfort felt by the driver of a preceding vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] 1. One aspect of the present invention is a light distribution control device that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by a variable light distribution lamp that can irradiate a visible light beam with a variable intensity distribution onto a region in front of a vehicle. In a situation where a normal light distribution pattern is formed that includes within its illumination range both the vehicle's travel path side and a non-travel path side at a branching road, this light distribution control device controls the variable light distribution lamp to reduce the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path side when the vehicle reaches a first point a predetermined distance before the branching road, and to form a guiding light distribution pattern in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the travel path side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path side.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is a light distribution control device that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by a variable light distribution lamp that can irradiate a visible light beam with a variable intensity distribution toward a region in front of a vehicle. In a situation where information regarding a vehicle's route is given and a normal light distribution pattern is formed that includes both the route side of the vehicle and a non-route side at a branching road, this light distribution control device controls the variable light distribution lamp to reduce the illuminance of the light irradiated toward the non-route side when the driver of the vehicle indicates an intention to proceed toward the route side, and to form a guiding light distribution pattern in which the illuminance of the light irradiated toward the route side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated toward the non-route side.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention is a vehicle lighting system including a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a front area of ​​the vehicle with a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution, and the light distribution control device according to any of the above aspects.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is a light distribution control method for controlling the formation of a light distribution pattern by a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a visible light beam with a variable intensity distribution onto a region in front of a vehicle. This light distribution control method includes, in a situation where a normal light distribution pattern is formed whose illumination range includes both a traveling path side and a non-traveling path side of the vehicle at a branching road, controlling the variable light distribution lamp to reduce the illuminance of light irradiated onto the non-traveling path side when the vehicle reaches a first point a predetermined distance before the branching road, and to form a guiding light distribution pattern in which the illuminance of light irradiated onto the traveling path side is higher than the illuminance of light irradiated onto the non-traveling path side.

[0012] 2. One aspect of the present invention is a light distribution control device that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by a variable light distribution lamp that can irradiate a visible light beam with a variable intensity distribution onto a region in front of a vehicle. This light distribution control device includes: a situation determination unit that determines whether an object that functions as a screen onto which the light distribution pattern is projected is present in the region in front of the vehicle; and a pattern determination unit that, in a situation where a preceding vehicle is present, determines a first light distribution pattern that includes a dimming section corresponding to the preceding vehicle if it is determined that no object is present, and determines a second light distribution pattern in which at least a portion of the contour of the dimming section in the first light distribution pattern is blurred or the dimming section extends to the outer edge of the first light distribution pattern in at least one direction if it is determined that an object is present.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention is a vehicle lighting system including a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a front area of ​​the vehicle with a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution, and the light distribution control device according to the above aspect.

[0014] Another aspect of the present invention is a light distribution control method for controlling the formation of a light distribution pattern by a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a visible light beam with a variable intensity distribution onto a region in front of a vehicle. This light distribution control method includes determining whether an object functioning as a screen onto which the light distribution pattern is projected is present in the region in front of the vehicle, and, in a situation where a preceding vehicle is present, determining a first light distribution pattern including a dimming portion corresponding to the preceding vehicle if it is determined that no object is present, and determining a second light distribution pattern in which at least a portion of the contour of the dimming portion in the first light distribution pattern is blurred or the dimming portion extends to the outer edge of the first light distribution pattern in at least one direction if it is determined that an object is present.

[0015] Any combination of the above components and conversion of the present invention into a method, device, system, etc. are also valid aspects of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to assist the driver in driving, and to reduce the sense of discomfort felt by the driver of the preceding vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle lighting system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 3 is a schematic diagram showing a light distribution pattern formed by a low beam unit and an ADB unit. FIG. [Figure 3] 3(A) and 3(B) are schematic diagrams for explaining gaze guidance control. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining gaze guidance control. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of gaze guidance control executed by a light distribution control device. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle lighting system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7]3 is a schematic diagram showing a light distribution pattern formed by a low beam unit and an ADB unit. FIG. [Figure 8] 8(A) and 8(B) are schematic diagrams illustrating situations that may cause discomfort to the driver of a preceding vehicle. [Figure 9] 9(A) and 9(B) are schematic diagrams of the second variable light distribution pattern. [Figure 10] 10(A) and 10(B) are schematic diagrams of the second variable light distribution pattern. [Figure 11] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of light distribution control executed by a light distribution control device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings based on preferred embodiments. The embodiments are illustrative and do not limit the invention, and all features and combinations thereof described in the embodiments are not necessarily essential to the invention. Identical or equivalent components, parts, and processes shown in each drawing are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted where appropriate. The scale and shape of each part shown in each drawing are set for convenience to facilitate explanation and should not be interpreted as limiting unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, when terms such as "first" and "second" are used in this specification or claims, unless otherwise specified, these terms do not indicate any order or importance, but are used to distinguish one configuration from another. Furthermore, some components that are not important for explaining the embodiments are omitted from each drawing.

[0019] (Embodiment 1) Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle lighting system 1 according to a first embodiment. In Fig. 1, some of the components of the vehicle lighting system 1 are depicted as functional blocks. These functional blocks are realized as a hardware configuration by elements and circuits such as a computer CPU and memory, and as a software configuration by a computer program or the like. Those skilled in the art will understand that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways by combining hardware and software.

[0020] The vehicle lighting system 1 includes a low beam unit 2, an ADB unit 4, an imaging device 6, and a light distribution control device 10. The vehicle lighting system 1 of this embodiment also includes a lamp body 12 having an opening on the front side of the vehicle, and a translucent cover 14 attached to cover the opening of the lamp body 12. The lamp body 12 and the translucent cover 14 form a lamp chamber 16. The low beam unit 2, the ADB unit 4, the imaging device 6, and the light distribution control device 10 are housed in the lamp chamber 16.

[0021] The imaging device 6 and the light distribution control device 10 may each be provided outside the lamp chamber 16, for example, on the vehicle side. The imaging device 6 may be configured as an in-vehicle camera. All or part of the light distribution control device 10 may be configured as a vehicle ECU. The low beam unit 2 and the ADB unit 4 may also be housed in separate lamp chambers 16.

[0022] The low beam unit 2 has a light source mounting portion 18, a light source 20, a reflector 22, a shade member 24, and a projection lens 26. The light source mounting portion 18 is formed of a metal material such as aluminum, and is supported on the lamp body 12 via a bracket (not shown). The light source mounting portion 18 has a light source mounting surface 18a. In this embodiment, the light source mounting surface 18a extends in a substantially horizontal direction. A light source 20 is mounted on the light source mounting surface 18a.

[0023] The light source 20 is, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode). The light source 20 may be a semiconductor light source other than an LED, such as an LD (laser diode) or an organic or inorganic EL (electroluminescence), or may be an incandescent lamp, a halogen lamp, or a discharge lamp. The light source 20 emits light toward the reflector 22. The reflector 22 is substantially dome-shaped and is disposed so as to cover the light source 20 vertically above and is fixed to the light source mounting portion 18. The reflector 22 has a reflective surface 22a formed of a part of an ellipsoid of revolution. The reflective surface 22a has a first focal point and a second focal point located further forward from the first focal point. The positional relationship between the reflector 22 and the light source 20 is determined so that the light source 20 substantially coincides with the first focal point of the reflective surface 22a.

[0024] A shade member 24 is fixed to the light source mounting portion 18 on the front side of the lamp. The shade member 24 has a flat portion 24a disposed substantially horizontally and a curved portion 24b located further forward than the flat portion 24a. The curved portion 24b is curved downward so as not to block the light from the light source from entering a projection lens 26. The reflector 22 is positioned relative to the shade member 24 so that a ridge line 24c formed by the flat portion 24a and the curved portion 24b is located near the second focal point of the reflecting surface 22a. A projection lens 26 is fixed to the tip of the curved portion 24b. For example, the projection lens 26 may be a plano-convex aspherical lens, and projects an inverted image of the light source image formed on the rear focal plane onto a virtual vertical screen in front of the lamp. The projection lens 26 is positioned on the optical axis of the low beam unit 2 so that its rear focal point approximately coincides with the second focal point of the reflecting surface 22a.

[0025] Light emitted from the light source 20 is reflected by the reflecting surface 22a and passes near the ridge line 24c before entering the projection lens 26. The light that enters the projection lens 26 is irradiated forward of the lamp as substantially parallel light. At this time, the shade member 24 partially blocks the light from the light source 20 from being emitted forward of the lamp. Specifically, a portion of the light emitted from the light source 20 is reflected on the flat portion 24a. That is, the light from the light source 20 is selectively cut off with the ridge line 24c as a boundary line. As a result, a light distribution pattern including a cutoff line corresponding to the shape of the ridge line 24c, i.e., a low-beam light distribution pattern (see FIG. 2), is formed in the area forward of the vehicle.

[0026] The structure of the low beam unit 2 is not limited to the above, and any known structure can be used. For example, the shade member 24 that forms the cutoff line may be a shutter type in which the shade plate moves forward and backward relative to the optical axis. Furthermore, the low beam unit 2 does not need to have the reflector 22 or the projection lens 26.

[0027] The ADB unit 4 is composed of a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a visible light beam L1 with a variable intensity distribution toward the area ahead of the vehicle. The ADB unit 4 is supported on the lamp body 12 via a bracket (not shown). The ADB unit 4 of this embodiment has a light source array 28. The light source array 28 includes a plurality of light sources 30 arranged in a matrix and a circuit board 32 that turns on and off each light source 30 independently. Preferred examples of the light source 30 include semiconductor light-emitting elements such as LEDs, LDs, and organic or inorganic ELs. The number of light sources 30, in other words, the resolution of the ADB unit 4, is, for example, 1,000 to 1,300,000 pixels.

[0028] The structure of the ADB unit 4 is not limited to the one described above, and any known structure can be adopted. For example, the variable light distribution lamp constituting the ADB unit 4 may be a matrix-type pattern forming device such as a DMD (Digital Mirror Device) or a liquid crystal device, or may be a scanning optical pattern forming device that scans the area ahead of the vehicle with light from a light source. Furthermore, the low beam unit 2 and the ADB unit 4 may be integrated.

[0029] The imaging device 6 has sensitivity in the visible light region and captures an image of the area ahead of the vehicle to generate an image IMG. The image IMG captured by the imaging device 6 is sent to the light distribution control device 10. The imaging device 6 repeatedly captures an image of the area ahead of the vehicle at a predetermined timing, and sends the image IMG to the light distribution control device 10 each time it captures an image IMG.

[0030] The light distribution control device 10 includes, for example, a situation determination unit 34 and a pattern determination unit 36. The light distribution control device 10 can be configured with a digital processor, and may be configured, for example, with a combination of a microcomputer including a CPU and a software program, or may be configured with an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific IC). Each unit included in the light distribution control device 10 operates when the integrated circuit that constitutes it executes a program stored in memory.

[0031] The light distribution control device 10 controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by the low beam unit 2 and the ADB unit 4. Below, the shape of the light distribution pattern formed by each lamp unit and the control of the formation of the light distribution pattern by the light distribution control device 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the light distribution patterns formed by the low beam unit 2 and the ADB unit 4. The light distribution pattern can be understood as a two-dimensional illuminance distribution of the irradiation pattern formed by each lamp unit on a virtual vertical screen in front of the vehicle. Note that FIG. 2 shows a light distribution pattern for left-hand traffic.

[0032] The low beam unit 2 can form a low beam light distribution pattern PL by irradiating light from the light source 20. The low beam light distribution pattern PL has a cutoff line CL at its upper end. The cutoff line CL includes a first partial cutoff line CL1, a second partial cutoff line CL2, and a third partial cutoff line CL3. The first partial cutoff line CL1 extends horizontally on the oncoming lane side. The second partial cutoff line CL2 extends horizontally on the host vehicle's lane side at a position higher than the first partial cutoff line CL1. The third partial cutoff line CL3 extends obliquely between the first partial cutoff line CL1 and the second partial cutoff line CL2 to connect them.

[0033] The ADB unit 4 can form a variable light distribution pattern PA above the cutoff line CL by irradiating light from the multiple light sources 30. For example, the variable light distribution pattern PA is formed in an area where a known high beam light distribution pattern should be formed. The variable light distribution pattern PA has a structure in which multiple partial areas arranged in a matrix are collected. As an example, each partial area corresponds one-to-one to each light source 30. By adjusting the lighting state of each light source 30, the illuminance of each partial area can be adjusted independently of each other.

[0034] The light distribution control device 10 can perform the following ADB control. That is, the light distribution control device 10 determines the presence and position of a preceding vehicle based on the image IMG obtained from the imaging device 6. The preceding vehicle includes a preceding vehicle and an oncoming vehicle. FIG. 2 illustrates a preceding vehicle LV as an example. The light distribution control device 10 can determine the presence and position of the preceding vehicle by performing known image processing and image analysis on the image IMG. The light distribution control device 10 can also distinguish between the preceding vehicle LV and an oncoming vehicle based on the position of the preceding vehicle, the difference between the red color of the tail lamps and stop lamps and the white color of the head lamps, and the like. The light distribution control device 10 may detect a preceding vehicle based on the measurement results of a distance measurement sensor (not shown). The light distribution control device 10 may also acquire information about the preceding vehicle from the vehicle ECU.

[0035] When a forward vehicle is detected, the light distribution control device 10 determines a dimming section 38 in the variable light distribution pattern PA that overlaps with the forward vehicle. Then, it controls the ADB unit 4 to form the variable light distribution pattern PA that includes the dimming section 38. The variable light distribution pattern PA includes in its illumination range an area above the cutoff line CL of the low beam light distribution pattern PL. Therefore, the dimming section 38 can be formed in the area above the cutoff line CL.

[0036] In this embodiment, the illuminance of the dimming section 38 is substantially zero. However, the illuminance of the dimming section 38 may be higher than zero and lower than the illuminance of the portion overlapping with an area where no forward vehicle is present. The illuminance of the dimming section 38 can be appropriately set based on experiments, simulations, etc., taking into account the degree of glare received by the driver of the forward vehicle, etc. By forming a variable light distribution pattern PA including the dimming section 38, it is possible to improve the visibility of the driver of the host vehicle while reducing the glare received by the driver of the forward vehicle.

[0037] Furthermore, the light distribution control device 10 can execute the following gaze guidance control. As an example, the gaze guidance control is executed as part of ADB control. FIGS. 3(A), 3(B), and 4 are schematic diagrams for explaining gaze guidance control. As shown in FIG. 3(A), it is assumed that there is a branch road 44 ahead of the vehicle V. As an example, the branch road 44 branches into two. It is also assumed that the vehicle V plans to proceed to the road on the right side of the branch road 44, for example. The presence of the branch road 44 ahead of the vehicle V and which road the vehicle V plans to take at the branch road 44 can be determined by, for example, acquiring information about the vehicle V's travel route from a navigation system 42 provided in the vehicle.

[0038] The vehicle V forms a normal light distribution pattern PAn. When the normal light distribution pattern PAn is irradiated onto the branch road 44, the irradiation range of the normal light distribution pattern PAn includes the traveling path 46 side of the vehicle V on the branch road 44 and the non-traveling path 48 side.

[0039] Including the traveling path 46 side in the illumination range means that light of the normal light distribution pattern PAn can be irradiated onto at least a portion of the road surface at the traveling path entrance 46a, at least a portion of the area extending vertically upward from the road surface, or both. Similarly, including the non-traveling path 48 side in the illumination range means that light of the normal light distribution pattern PAn can be irradiated onto at least a portion of the road surface at the non-traveling path entrance 48a, at least a portion of the area extending vertically upward from the road surface, or both. The traveling path entrance 46a and the non-traveling path entrance 48a are positions where the traveling path 46 and the non-traveling path 48 begin to diverge. For example, the normal light distribution pattern PAn is the variable light distribution pattern PA shown in FIG. 2. Therefore, when a vehicle ahead is present, the normal light distribution pattern PAn may include a dimming portion 38.

[0040] The situation determination unit 34 determines whether the vehicle V has reached a first point X that is a predetermined distance before the branch road 44 (e.g., the entrance 46a of the travel path). The situation determination unit 34 can determine that the vehicle V has reached the first point X by, for example, acquiring position information of the vehicle V from the navigation system 42. The situation determination unit 34 may determine the position of the vehicle V based on a known sensor that measures the current position of the vehicle V other than the navigation system 42. Alternatively, the situation determination unit 34 can determine that a branch road 44 exists ahead and the distance to the branch road 44 based on, for example, an image IMG acquired from the imaging device 6 or a detection result from a distance measurement sensor. The situation determination unit 34 sends the determination result to the pattern determination unit 36.

[0041] The "predetermined distance," i.e., the distance from the branching path 44 to the first point X, can be set appropriately based on experiments, simulations, etc. For example, the predetermined distance is the distance at which the visible light beam L1 emitted from the ADB unit 4 can reach the branching path 44. The distance at which the visible light beam L1 can reach the branching path 44 refers to, for example, the distance at which, when the ADB unit 4, located at a distance from the virtual vertical screen, emits the visible light beam L1 toward the virtual vertical screen, a light distribution pattern outline visible to a person from any position is formed on the screen. Furthermore, for example, this distance is the distance at which the illuminance of the virtual vertical screen irradiated with the visible light beam L1 is 0.6 lux or greater. The distance at which the visible light beam L1 can reach the branching path 44 can be set appropriately based on experiments, simulations, etc., and is, for example, 200 to 300 meters. Information regarding the predetermined distance is pre-stored in the situation determination unit 34.

[0042] When the situation determination unit 34 determines that the vehicle V has reached the first point X in a situation where the normal light distribution pattern PAn is formed, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​determines the guidance light distribution pattern PAi as the pattern to be formed by the ADB unit 4, as shown in FIGS. 3(B) and 4 . Then, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​sends the determined pattern information to the ADB unit 4 to form the guidance light distribution pattern PAi. In other words, the first point X is the guidance start point. The guidance light distribution pattern PAi is a light distribution pattern in which the illuminance of light irradiated onto the travel path 46 side is higher than the illuminance of light irradiated onto the non-travel path 48 side. The pattern determination unit 36 ​​may directly receive a signal indicating that the vehicle V has reached the first point X from the navigation system 42 or the like.

[0043] The pattern determination unit 36 ​​switches from the normal light distribution pattern PAn to the guidance light distribution pattern PAi by controlling the ADB unit 4 to reduce the illuminance of light irradiated toward the non-traveling path 48 in the normal light distribution pattern PAn. The degree to which the illuminance of light irradiated toward the non-traveling path 48 is reduced can be set appropriately based on experiments, simulations, etc., taking into account the effect of the difference in brightness on the driver's visibility, etc. As an example, the illuminance of light irradiated toward the non-traveling path 48 in the guidance light distribution pattern PAi is the same as that of the dimming unit 38.

[0044] The guiding light distribution pattern PAi has a light-dark contrast where the traveling path 46 side is bright and the non-traveling path 48 side is dark. Therefore, by forming the guiding light distribution pattern PAi, the traveling path 46 side becomes brighter than the non-traveling path 48 side, and the driver's line of sight can be guided to the traveling path 46 side.

[0045] The illuminance of the guidance light distribution pattern PAi in the driver's field of vision, at least in a portion overlapping with at least a portion of the road surface of the entrance 46a of the traveling path, at least in a portion overlapping with at least a portion of the area extending vertically upward from the road surface, or both, may be higher than the illuminance of the portion overlapping with at least a portion of the road surface of the entrance 48a of the non-traveling path, at least in a portion overlapping with at least a portion of the area extending vertically upward from the road surface, or both.

[0046] That is, the guidance light distribution pattern PAi only needs to illuminate the road surface at the traveling path entrance 46a and at least a portion of the area above it brighter than the road surface at the non-travel path entrance 48a and at least a portion of the area above it. Preferably, the guidance light distribution pattern PAi illuminates at least a portion of the traveling path side area (the road surface at the entrance and an area above it) brighter than the entire non-travel path side area (the road surface at the entrance and an area above it). For example, the guidance light distribution pattern PAi illuminates the road surface at the traveling path entrance 46a more brightly than the road surface at the non-travel path entrance 48a. Alternatively, the guidance light distribution pattern PAi illuminates the area above the road surface at the traveling path entrance 46a more brightly than the area above the road surface at the non-travel path entrance 48a. Preferably, the guidance light distribution pattern PAi creates a contrast between light and dark between the road surfaces at the traveling path entrance 46a and the non-travel path entrance 48a and the areas extending above each road surface.

[0047] The guiding light distribution pattern PAi of this embodiment is formed so as to overlap with the region above the cutoff line CL of the low-beam light distribution pattern PL. Furthermore, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​of this embodiment controls the ADB unit 4 to form the guiding light distribution pattern PAi regardless of the road shape of the travel path 46. Therefore, even if the travel path 46 is, for example, a straight line, the guiding light distribution pattern PAi is formed when the vehicle V reaches the first point X. Furthermore, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​of this embodiment controls the ADB unit 4 to form the guiding light distribution pattern PAi regardless of the driver's steering. Therefore, even if the road on which the vehicle V is traveling at the timing of forming the guiding light distribution pattern PAi, i.e., the road at the first point X, is, for example, a straight line, the guiding light distribution pattern PAi is formed.

[0048] Note that the intensity distribution of the guidance light distribution pattern PAi can be set appropriately as long as the illuminance of the light irradiated toward the non-travel path 48 side is reduced when switching from the normal light distribution pattern PAn to the guidance light distribution pattern PAi and the condition of the brightness contrast between the travel path 46 side and the non-travel path 48 side is satisfied. Therefore, when switching from the normal light distribution pattern PAn to the guidance light distribution pattern PAi, the illuminance of the light irradiated toward the travel path 46 side may increase or decrease.

[0049] As an example, the situation determination unit 34 determines whether the vehicle V has reached a second point Y, which is closer to the branch road 44 than the first point X and before the branch road 44. The situation determination unit 34 can determine that the vehicle V has reached the second point Y based on information obtained from the navigation system 42, other position sensors, images IMG, distance measurement sensors, etc. The situation determination unit 34 sends the determination result to the pattern determination unit 36. When it is determined that the vehicle V has reached the second point Y, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​controls the ADB unit 4 to switch the guidance light distribution pattern PAi to the normal light distribution pattern PAn. In other words, the second point Y is the guidance end point. The distance from the branch road 44 to the second point Y can be set appropriately based on experiments, simulations, etc., but is, for example, 30 meters. Information regarding the second point Y is stored in the situation determination unit 34 in advance. The pattern determination unit 36 ​​may also receive a signal indicating that the vehicle V has reached the second point Y directly from the navigation system 42, etc.

[0050] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of gaze guidance control executed by the light distribution control device 10. This flow is executed repeatedly at a predetermined timing when an instruction to execute ADB control is given by, for example, a light switch (not shown) and the ignition is on. As an example, gaze guidance control is executed as part of ADB control. Furthermore, in ADB control, a normal light distribution pattern PAn (variable light distribution pattern PA) is formed in a steady state. Therefore, gaze guidance control is necessarily executed in a situation where the normal light distribution pattern PAn is formed.

[0051] The light distribution control device 10 determines whether the vehicle V has reached the first point X (S201). If the vehicle V has not reached the first point X (N in S201), the light distribution control device 10 ends this routine. If the vehicle V has reached the first point X (Y in S201), the light distribution control device 10 controls the ADB unit 4 to switch the normal light distribution pattern PAn to the guidance light distribution pattern PAi (S202).

[0052] Next, the light distribution control device 10 determines whether the vehicle V has reached the second point Y (S203). If the vehicle V has not reached the second point Y (N in S203), the light distribution control device 10 repeats the determination in step S203. If the vehicle V has reached the second point Y (Y in S203), the light distribution control device 10 controls the ADB unit 4 to switch the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to the normal light distribution pattern PAn (S204), and ends this routine. Note that the guiding light distribution pattern PAi may be formed when the vehicle V reaches the first point X, even in a situation where the normal light distribution pattern PAn is not formed.

[0053] As described above, the light distribution control device 10 according to this embodiment controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by the ADB unit 4 (variable light distribution lamp) capable of irradiating a visible light beam L1 with a variable intensity distribution onto a region ahead of the vehicle V. In a situation where a normal light distribution pattern PAn is formed whose irradiation range includes both the travel path 46 side and the non-travel path 48 side of the vehicle V on the branching road 44, when the vehicle V reaches a first point X that is a predetermined distance before the branching road 44, the light distribution control device 10 controls the ADB unit 4 to reduce the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path 48 side, and to form a guiding light distribution pattern PAi in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the travel path 46 side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path 48 side.

[0054] In this way, when the vehicle V approaches the branch road 44, the side of the path 46 to be traveled is illuminated more brightly than the side of the non-path 48 to guide the line of sight of the driver of the vehicle V to the path 46. Also, the driver can be shown which way to go. Therefore, the driver's driving can be assisted.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the distance from the branching path 44 to the first point X is a distance that allows the visible light beam L1 to reach the branching path 44. This allows the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to more reliably reach the traveling path entrance 46a and the non-traveling path entrance 48a. This further enhances the effectiveness of forming the guiding light distribution pattern PAi. Furthermore, by forming the normal light distribution pattern PAn until the first point X is reached, visibility for the driver can be improved.

[0056] Furthermore, the guiding light distribution pattern PAi of this embodiment is formed so as to overlap with the region above the cutoff line CL of the low beam light distribution pattern PL. The region above the cutoff line CL is easily visible to the driver. This further enhances the effectiveness of forming the guiding light distribution pattern PAi.

[0057] Furthermore, the light distribution control device 10 determines the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to be the light distribution pattern formed by the ADB unit 4 regardless of the road shape of the travel path 46. As a result, the driver's line of sight can be guided toward the travel path 46 regardless of the road shape beyond the travel path entrance 46a. Furthermore, the light distribution control device 10 determines the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to be the light distribution pattern formed by the ADB unit 4 regardless of the driver's steering. As a result, the driver's line of sight can be guided toward the travel path 46 regardless of the shape of the road on which the vehicle V is traveling at the time the guiding light distribution pattern PAi is formed. This enables even greater driving assistance.

[0058] Furthermore, the light distribution control device 10 controls the ADB unit 4 to switch the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to the normal light distribution pattern PAn when the vehicle V reaches a second point Y that is closer to the branch road 44 than the first point X and before the branch road 44. This allows the driver's visibility to be quickly restored to a high state.

[0059] (Variation 1) The light distribution control device 10 of the first embodiment switches the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to the normal light distribution pattern PAn when the vehicle V reaches the second point Y. On the other hand, the light distribution control device 10 of this modification controls the ADB unit 4 to switch the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to the normal light distribution pattern PAn when a predetermined stop instruction signal instructing the light distribution control device 10 to stop forming the guiding light distribution pattern PAi is received from outside the light distribution control device 10. The stop instruction signal is a signal related to information other than the position information of the vehicle V. For example, the vehicle lighting system 1 includes an instruction device 50 as shown in FIG. 1 . The instruction device 50 sends a stop instruction signal to the light distribution control device 10. When the light distribution control device 10 receives the stop instruction signal from the instruction device 50, it controls the ADB unit 4 to switch the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to the normal light distribution pattern PAn. This increases the degree of freedom in the timing of switching from the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to the normal light distribution pattern PAn.

[0060] Examples of the instruction device 50 include a voice input device and a cancel button. In this case, when the driver or the like inputs a voice command to stop forming the guiding light distribution pattern PAi or when the driver or the like operates the cancel button, a stop instruction signal is sent to the light distribution control device 10. Alternatively, the instruction device 50 may be a device that transmits information about the state or operation of the vehicle V. An example of such an instruction device 50 is a steering angle sensor (steering sensor) that detects the steering angle of the steering wheel. In this case, the stop instruction signal is, for example, a signal indicating a steering angle equal to or greater than a predetermined value, sent from the steering sensor to the light distribution control device 10 after the guiding light distribution pattern PAi is formed. The "predetermined value" can be set appropriately based on experiments, simulations, or the like. Another example is a light switch that switches on and off turn signal lamps (not shown). In this case, the stop instruction signal is, for example, a signal sent from the light switch to the light distribution control device 10 to instruct the turn signal lamps to be on.

[0061] (Embodiment 2) Light distribution control device 10 according to embodiment 2 has a common configuration with embodiment 1, except for differences in the control content. Below, light distribution control device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described, focusing on the configuration that differs from embodiment 1, and the common configuration will be described briefly or omitted.

[0062] The light distribution control device 10 controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by an ADB unit 4 (a variable light distribution lamp) capable of irradiating a visible light beam L1 with a variable intensity distribution onto a region ahead of the vehicle V. In a situation where information regarding the travel path 46 of the vehicle V is given and a normal light distribution pattern PAn is formed whose illumination range includes both the travel path 46 side and the non-travel path 48 side of the vehicle V at the branching road 44, when the driver of the vehicle V indicates an intention to move the vehicle V onto the travel path 46 side, the light distribution control device 10 of the present embodiment controls the ADB unit 4 to reduce the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path 48 side and form a guiding light distribution pattern PAi in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the travel path 46 side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path 48 side.

[0063] The information regarding the path 46 of the vehicle V is, for example, information regarding the travel route of the vehicle V that is sent from the navigation system 42 to the light distribution control device 10. The information is also information regarding the path 46 of the branch road 44 that the vehicle V will reach first from its current position. The information regarding the path 46 of the vehicle V is provided to the light distribution control device 10, for example, by the situation determination unit 34 grasping that the vehicle V has reached a first point X that is a predetermined distance before the target branch road 44, by acquiring from the imaging device 6 an image IMG showing the target branch road 44, by acquiring from the navigation system 42 a signal indicating that route guidance to the path 46 has been executed by the navigation system 42 using audio or images, etc.

[0064] An example of an intention to move the vehicle V toward the path of travel 46 is a steering angle signal indicating that the driver has steered toward the path of travel 46, which is sent from a steering angle sensor to the light distribution control device 10. Another example of the intention is a signal instructing the driver to turn on a turn signal lamp on the path of travel 46, which is sent from a light switch to the light distribution control device 10. In these cases, the indicator device 50 in FIG. 1 can be interpreted as a device that imparts the driver's intention to the light distribution control device 10.

[0065] That is, the light distribution control device 10 of the present embodiment switches the normal light distribution pattern PAn to the guiding light distribution pattern PAi using two triggers: a situation assessment by the vehicle V, including understanding the route 46, and an expression of the driver's intention. This type of control can also assist the driver in driving.

[0066] As an example, even if information regarding the travel path 46 is given, if the driver indicates an intention to cause the vehicle V to proceed toward the non-travel path 48, the light distribution control device 10 maintains the formation of the normal light distribution pattern PAn. Furthermore, after an indication of intention to cause the vehicle V to proceed toward the travel path 46 is given and the light distribution control device 10 forms the guiding light distribution pattern PAi, the light distribution control device 10 may return the guiding light distribution pattern PAi to the normal light distribution pattern PAn if an indication of intention to cause the vehicle V to proceed toward the non-travel path 48 is given or if the light distribution control device 10 determines, based on information obtained from the vehicle V, that the driver is not causing the vehicle V to proceed toward the travel path 46.

[0067] Furthermore, the light distribution control device 10 may displace the hot zone of the guiding light distribution pattern PAi upward when the path 46 is an uphill slope, and may displace the hot zone of the guiding light distribution pattern PAi downward when the path 46 is a downhill slope. The hot zone is a portion of the light distribution pattern that is brighter than other portions, and is a portion that is irradiated onto an area in front of the vehicle V that requires particularly high visibility. Whether the path 46 is an uphill slope or a downhill slope can be determined based on the shape of the path 46 shown in the image IMG and information obtained from the navigation system 42.

[0068] The first and second embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. The first and second embodiments described above merely illustrate specific examples of implementing the present invention. The content of the embodiments does not limit the technical scope of the present invention. Many design modifications, such as changing, adding, or deleting components, are possible within the scope of the inventive concept defined in the claims. A new embodiment incorporating design modifications will combine the effects of the combined embodiments and modifications. In the above-described embodiments, possible design modifications are emphasized by using terms such as "in this embodiment" or "in this embodiment." However, design modifications are also permitted even in areas without such notation. Any combination of the above components is also valid as an aspect of the present invention. Hatching in cross sections in the drawings does not limit the materials of the hatched objects.

[0069] The inventions according to the above-described first and second embodiments may be specified by the following items. [Item 1] A light distribution control device (10) for controlling the formation of light distribution patterns (PAn, PAi) by a variable light distribution lamp (4) capable of irradiating a front area of ​​a vehicle (V) with a visible light beam (L1) having a variable intensity distribution, In a situation where a normal light distribution pattern (PAn) is formed that includes within its illumination range both a traveling path (46) side and a non-traveling path (48) side of a vehicle (V) on a branching path (44), when the vehicle (V) reaches a first point (X) that is a predetermined distance before the branching path (44), the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-traveling path (48) side is reduced, and the variable light distribution lamp (4) is controlled so as to form a guidance light distribution pattern (PAi) in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the traveling path (46) side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-traveling path (48). Light distribution control device (10). [Item 2] The predetermined distance is a distance at which the visible light beam (L1) can reach the branch path (44). Item 1. The light distribution control device (10) according to item 1. [Item 3] The guiding light distribution pattern (PAi) is formed so as to overlap with the area above the cutoff line (CL) of the low beam light distribution pattern (PL). Item 1 or 2. The light distribution control device (10) according to item 1 or 2. [Item 4] controlling the variable light distribution lamp (4) to form a guiding light distribution pattern (PAi) regardless of the road shape of the travel path (46); A light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 1 to 3. [Item 5] a variable light distribution lamp (4) that controls the variable light distribution lamp (4) to form a guiding light distribution pattern (PAi) regardless of the driver's steering; A light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 1 to 4. [Item 6] When the vehicle (V) reaches a second point (Y) that is closer to the branch road (44) than the first point (X) and before the branch road (44), the variable light distribution lamp (4) is controlled to switch the guidance light distribution pattern (PAi) to a normal light distribution pattern (PAn). 6. A light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 1 to 5. [Item 7] When a predetermined stop instruction signal is received from outside the light distribution control device (10), the variable light distribution lamp (4) is controlled to switch the guidance light distribution pattern (PAi) to a normal light distribution pattern (PAn). 6. A light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 1 to 5. [Item 8] A light distribution control device (10) for controlling the formation of light distribution patterns (PAn, PAi) by a variable light distribution lamp (4) capable of irradiating a front area of ​​a vehicle (V) with a visible light beam (L1) having a variable intensity distribution, In a situation where information regarding the travel path of a vehicle (V) is given and a normal light distribution pattern (PAn) is formed that includes within its illumination range both a travel path (46) side and a non-travel path (48) side of the vehicle (V) on a branch road (44), when a driver of the vehicle (V) indicates an intention to proceed to the travel path (46), the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path (48) side is reduced, and the variable light distribution lamp (4) is controlled so as to form a guidance light distribution pattern (PAi) in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the travel path (46) side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path (48). Light distribution control device (10). [Item 9] a variable light distribution lamp (4) capable of irradiating a visible light beam (L1) having a variable intensity distribution to a front area of ​​a vehicle (V); The light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 1 to 8 is provided. Vehicle lighting system (1). [Item 10] A light distribution control method for controlling the formation of light distribution patterns (PAn, PAi) by a variable light distribution lamp (4) capable of irradiating a front area of ​​a vehicle (V) with a visible light beam (L1) having a variable intensity distribution, comprising: In a situation where a normal light distribution pattern (PAn) is formed that includes within its illumination range both a traveling path (46) side and a non-traveling path (48) side of a vehicle (V) on a branching path (44), when the vehicle (V) reaches a first point (X) that is a predetermined distance before the branching path (44), the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-traveling path (48) side is reduced, and the variable light distribution lamp (4) is controlled so as to form a guidance light distribution pattern (PAi) in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the traveling path (46) side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-traveling path (48). Light distribution control method. [Item 11] A light distribution control method for controlling the formation of light distribution patterns (PAn, PAi) by a variable light distribution lamp (4) capable of irradiating a front area of ​​a vehicle (V) with a visible light beam (L1) having a variable intensity distribution, comprising: In a situation where information about the travel path of the vehicle (V) is given and a normal light distribution pattern (PAn) is formed that includes an illumination range covering both the travel path (46) side and the non-travel path (48) side of the vehicle (V) on the branch road (44), when a driver of the vehicle (V) indicates an intention to proceed to the travel path (46), the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path (48) side is reduced, and the variable light distribution lamp (4) is controlled to form a guidance light distribution pattern (PAi) in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the travel path (46) side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-travel path (48). Light distribution control method.

[0070] (Embodiment 3) Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle lighting system 1 according to embodiment 3. In Fig. 6, some of the components of the vehicle lighting system 1 are depicted as functional blocks. These functional blocks are realized as a hardware configuration by elements and circuits such as a computer CPU and memory, and as a software configuration by a computer program or the like. Those skilled in the art will understand that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways by combining hardware and software.

[0071] The vehicle lighting system 1 includes a low beam unit 2, an ADB unit 4, an imaging device 6, a distance measurement sensor 8, and a light distribution control device 10. The vehicle lighting system 1 of this embodiment also includes a lamp body 12 having an opening on the front side of the vehicle, and a translucent cover 14 attached to cover the opening of the lamp body 12. The lamp body 12 and the translucent cover 14 form a lamp chamber 16. The low beam unit 2, the ADB unit 4, the imaging device 6, the distance measurement sensor 8, and the light distribution control device 10 are housed in the lamp chamber 16.

[0072] The imaging device 6, distance measurement sensor 8, and light distribution control device 10 may each be provided outside the lamp chamber 16, for example, on the vehicle side. The imaging device 6 may be configured as an on-board camera. All or part of the light distribution control device 10 may be configured as a vehicle ECU. The low beam unit 2 and the ADB unit 4 may also be housed in separate lamp chambers 16.

[0073] The low beam unit 2 has a light source mounting portion 18, a light source 20, a reflector 22, a shade member 24, and a projection lens 26. The light source mounting portion 18 is formed of a metal material such as aluminum, and is supported on the lamp body 12 via a bracket (not shown). The light source mounting portion 18 has a light source mounting surface 18a. In this embodiment, the light source mounting surface 18a extends in a substantially horizontal direction. A light source 20 is mounted on the light source mounting surface 18a.

[0074] The light source 20 is, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode). The light source 20 may be a semiconductor light source other than an LED, such as an LD (laser diode) or an organic or inorganic EL (electroluminescence), or may be an incandescent lamp, a halogen lamp, or a discharge lamp. The light source 20 emits light toward the reflector 22. The reflector 22 is substantially dome-shaped and is disposed so as to cover the light source 20 vertically above and is fixed to the light source mounting portion 18. The reflector 22 has a reflective surface 22a formed of a part of an ellipsoid of revolution. The reflective surface 22a has a first focal point and a second focal point located further forward from the first focal point. The positional relationship between the reflector 22 and the light source 20 is determined so that the light source 20 substantially coincides with the first focal point of the reflective surface 22a.

[0075] A shade member 24 is fixed to the light source mounting portion 18 on the front side of the lamp. The shade member 24 has a flat portion 24a disposed substantially horizontally and a curved portion 24b located further forward than the flat portion 24a. The curved portion 24b is curved downward so as not to block the light from the light source from entering a projection lens 26. The reflector 22 is positioned relative to the shade member 24 so that a ridge line 24c formed by the flat portion 24a and the curved portion 24b is located near the second focal point of the reflecting surface 22a. A projection lens 26 is fixed to the tip of the curved portion 24b. For example, the projection lens 26 may be a plano-convex aspherical lens, and projects an inverted image of the light source image formed on the rear focal plane onto a virtual vertical screen in front of the lamp. The projection lens 26 is positioned on the optical axis of the low beam unit 2 so that its rear focal point approximately coincides with the second focal point of the reflecting surface 22a.

[0076] Light emitted from the light source 20 is reflected by the reflecting surface 22a and passes near the ridge line 24c before entering the projection lens 26. The light that enters the projection lens 26 is emitted forward of the lamp as substantially parallel light. At this time, the shade member 24 partially blocks the light from the light source 20 from being emitted forward of the lamp. Specifically, a portion of the light emitted from the light source 20 is reflected on the flat portion 24a. That is, the light from the light source 20 is selectively cut off with the ridge line 24c as a boundary line. As a result, a light distribution pattern including a cutoff line corresponding to the shape of the ridge line 24c, i.e., a low-beam light distribution pattern (see FIG. 7), is formed in the area forward of the vehicle.

[0077] The structure of the low beam unit 2 is not limited to the above, and any known structure can be used. For example, the shade member 24 that forms the cutoff line may be a shutter type in which the shade plate moves forward and backward relative to the optical axis. Furthermore, the low beam unit 2 does not need to have the reflector 22 or the projection lens 26.

[0078] The ADB unit 4 is composed of a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a visible light beam L1 with a variable intensity distribution toward the area ahead of the vehicle. The ADB unit 4 is supported on the lamp body 12 via a bracket (not shown). The ADB unit 4 of this embodiment has a light source array 28. The light source array 28 includes a plurality of light sources 30 arranged in a matrix and a circuit board 32 that turns on and off each light source 30 independently. Preferred examples of the light source 30 include semiconductor light-emitting elements such as LEDs, LDs, and organic or inorganic ELs. The number of light sources 30, in other words, the resolution of the ADB unit 4, is, for example, 1,000 to 1,300,000 pixels.

[0079] The structure of the ADB unit 4 is not limited to the one described above, and any known structure can be adopted. For example, the variable light distribution lamp constituting the ADB unit 4 may be a matrix-type pattern forming device such as a DMD (Digital Mirror Device) or a liquid crystal device, or may be a scanning optical pattern forming device that scans the area ahead of the vehicle with light from a light source. Furthermore, the low beam unit 2 and the ADB unit 4 may be integrated.

[0080] The imaging device 6 has sensitivity in the visible light region and captures an image of the area ahead of the vehicle to generate an image IMG. The image IMG captured by the imaging device 6 is sent to the light distribution control device 10. The imaging device 6 repeatedly captures an image of the area ahead of the vehicle at a predetermined timing, and sends the image IMG to the light distribution control device 10 each time it captures an image IMG.

[0081] The distance measurement sensor 8 is directed toward the forward area and acquires information about the forward area. The distance measurement sensor can be configured, for example, with a millimeter-wave radar or LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging or Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging). The distance measurement sensor can acquire the presence of an object associated with the reflected wave or light and the distance to the object based on the time from when millimeter waves or light are emitted toward the forward area to when the reflected wave or light is detected. Furthermore, by associating such distance data with the detected position of the object and accumulating it, information about the movement of the object can be acquired. The measurement results of the distance measurement sensor 8 are sent to the light distribution control device 10.

[0082] The light distribution control device 10 includes, for example, a situation determination unit 34 and a pattern determination unit 36. The light distribution control device 10 can be configured with a digital processor, and may be configured, for example, with a combination of a microcomputer including a CPU and a software program, or may be configured with an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific IC). Each unit included in the light distribution control device 10 operates when the integrated circuit that constitutes it executes a program stored in memory.

[0083] The light distribution control device 10 controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by the low beam unit 2 and the ADB unit 4. Below, the shape of the light distribution pattern formed by each lamp unit and the control of the formation of the light distribution pattern by the light distribution control device 10 will be described. Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the light distribution pattern formed by the low beam unit 2 and the ADB unit 4. The light distribution pattern can be understood as a two-dimensional illuminance distribution of the irradiation pattern formed by each lamp unit on a virtual vertical screen in front of the vehicle. Note that Fig. 7 shows a light distribution pattern for left-hand traffic.

[0084] The low beam unit 2 can form a low beam light distribution pattern PL by irradiating light from the light source 20. The low beam light distribution pattern PL has a cutoff line CL at its upper end. The cutoff line CL includes a first partial cutoff line CL1, a second partial cutoff line CL2, and a third partial cutoff line CL3. The first partial cutoff line CL1 extends horizontally on the oncoming lane side. The second partial cutoff line CL2 extends horizontally on the host vehicle's lane side at a position higher than the first partial cutoff line CL1. The third partial cutoff line CL3 extends obliquely between the first partial cutoff line CL1 and the second partial cutoff line CL2 to connect them.

[0085] The ADB unit 4 can form a variable light distribution pattern PA above the cutoff line CL by irradiating light from the multiple light sources 30. For example, the variable light distribution pattern PA is formed in an area where a known high beam light distribution pattern should be formed. The variable light distribution pattern PA has a structure in which multiple partial areas arranged in a matrix are collected. As an example, each partial area corresponds one-to-one to each light source 30. By adjusting the lighting state of each light source 30, the illuminance of each partial area can be adjusted independently of each other.

[0086] The light distribution control device 10 can perform the following ADB control. That is, the light distribution control device 10 determines the presence and position of a preceding vehicle based on the image IMG obtained from the imaging device 6. The preceding vehicle includes a preceding vehicle and an oncoming vehicle. A preceding vehicle travels ahead of the host vehicle in the same direction as the host vehicle, while an oncoming vehicle travels ahead of the host vehicle in the opposite direction. FIG. 7 illustrates a preceding vehicle LV as an example. The light distribution control device 10 can determine the presence and position of the preceding vehicle by performing known image processing and image analysis on the image IMG. The light distribution control device 10 can also distinguish between the preceding vehicle LV and an oncoming vehicle based on the position of the preceding vehicle, the difference between the red color of the tail lamps and stop lamps and the white color of the head lamps, and the like. The light distribution control device 10 may also detect a preceding vehicle based on the measurement results of the distance measurement sensor 8. The light distribution control device 10 may also acquire information about the preceding vehicle from the vehicle ECU.

[0087] When a forward vehicle is detected, the light distribution control device 10 determines a dimming section 38 in the variable light distribution pattern PA that overlaps with the forward vehicle. Then, it controls the ADB unit 4 to form the variable light distribution pattern PA that includes the dimming section 38. As described above, the variable light distribution pattern PA is formed in the area where a high beam light distribution pattern should be formed. Therefore, the dimming section 38 is formed in the area above the cutoff line CL of the low beam light distribution pattern PL.

[0088] In this embodiment, the illuminance of the dimming section 38 is substantially zero. However, the illuminance of the dimming section 38 may be higher than zero and lower than the illuminance of the portion overlapping with an area where no forward vehicle is present. The illuminance of the dimming section 38 can be set appropriately based on experiments and simulations, taking into account the degree of glare received by the driver of the forward vehicle, etc. By forming a variable light distribution pattern PA that includes the dimming section 38 that overlaps with the forward vehicle, it is possible to reduce the glare received by the driver of the forward vehicle while improving the visibility of the driver of the own vehicle.

[0089] On the other hand, depending on the conditions in the forward area, the formation of the dimming portion 38 may cause discomfort to the driver of the preceding vehicle LV. FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams illustrating situations that may cause discomfort to the driver of the preceding vehicle LV. When an object that can be regarded as a screen (hereinafter referred to as a screen object 40, as appropriate), such as a wall (fence), hedge, or road surface, is present on the other side of the preceding vehicle LV in the forward area of ​​the host vehicle, the variable light distribution pattern PA formed by the host vehicle is projected onto the screen object 40. When the variable light distribution pattern PA includes the dimming portion 38, the dimming portion 38 is also reflected in the screen object 40. In the present disclosure, the phenomenon in which the dimming portion 38 is reflected in the screen object 40 is referred to as a ghost phenomenon.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 8(B), the driver of the preceding vehicle LV may see the dimming portion 38 reflected on the screen object 40, which may cause the driver to feel uncomfortable. In particular, the dimming portion 38 moves on the screen object 40 depending on the relative positional relationship between the host vehicle and the preceding vehicle LV. For this reason, the movement of the dimming portion 38 may not be linked to the operation performed by the driver of the preceding vehicle LV. Therefore, the driver of the preceding vehicle LV is likely to feel uncomfortable seeing the dimming portion 38 reflected on the screen object 40. Note that this problem should not be considered a common recognition by those skilled in the art, but is something that the present inventors have independently recognized.

[0091] Therefore, the light distribution control device 10 of this embodiment executes the following light distribution control. That is, the situation determination unit 34 determines whether or not a preceding vehicle LV is present. Alternatively, the situation determination unit 34 acquires information about the preceding vehicle LV from the vehicle ECU. The situation determination unit 34 also determines whether or not a screen object 40, which functions as a screen onto which the variable light distribution pattern PA is projected, is present in the forward area.

[0092] A possible situation in which the screen object 40 appears in the forward area is when there is a road with a specific shape, such as a curved road, a forked road (including a three-way intersection, a four-way intersection, a multi-way intersection with five or more intersections, etc.), or a slope ahead of the host vehicle. On a curved road or a forked road, a wall or hedge extending along the edge of the road could be the screen object 40. On a slope, the screen object 40 could be an uphill road surface that appears ahead when the host vehicle is traveling on a level road, or the surface of a horizontal road that appears ahead when the host vehicle is traveling downhill.

[0093] Therefore, when a road with the above-described specific shape exists ahead of the vehicle, the situation determination unit 34 determines that a screen object 40 exists in the forward area. For example, the situation determination unit 34 acquires information about the vehicle's driving route from a navigation system 42 provided in the vehicle. Then, based on this information, the situation determination unit 34 determines that a road with a specific shape exists in the forward area. The situation determination unit 34 can also determine that a road with a specific shape exists in the forward area based on an image IMG acquired from the imaging device 6. As an example, the situation determination unit 34 uniformly determines that a screen object 40 exists when a road with a specific shape exists ahead, regardless of whether the screen object 40 actually exists. This reduces the load on the light distribution control device 10. Note that the situation determination unit 34 may actually detect that the screen object 40 exists.

[0094] When it is determined that no screen object 40 is present in a situation where a preceding vehicle LV is present, pattern determination unit 36 ​​determines first variable light distribution pattern PA1 including dimming portion 38 corresponding to preceding vehicle LV (see FIG. 7). First variable light distribution pattern PA1 of this embodiment has rectangular dimming portion 38 having linear contour lines OL on the top, bottom, left, and right.

[0095] When it is determined that a screen object 40 is present in a situation where a preceding vehicle LV is present, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​determines a second light distribution variable pattern PA2. The second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is based on the first light distribution variable pattern PA1, but the shape of the attenuation portions 38 is different from that included in the first light distribution variable pattern PA1. More specifically, the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 has a shape in which at least a portion of the outline OL of the attenuation portions 38 in the first light distribution variable pattern PA1 is blurred. Alternatively, the first light distribution variable pattern PA1 has a shape in which the attenuation portions 38 extend to the outer edge of the first light distribution variable pattern PA1 in at least one direction.

[0096] The blurring of the contour line OL can be achieved, for example, by gradually increasing the luminance of the light source 30 corresponding to the boundary region of the attenuation section 38 from the inside to the outside of the attenuation section 38. In other words, "blurring" means that the gradient of the illuminance change in the boundary region of the attenuation section 38 is gentler in the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 than in the first light distribution variable pattern PA1. Preferably, the blurring of the contour line OL is formed outside the contour line OL in the attenuation section 38 of the first light distribution variable pattern PA1.

[0097] 9(A), 9(B), 10(A), and 10(B) are schematic diagrams of the second light-distribution variable pattern PA2. Fig. 9(A) is a first example of the second light-distribution variable pattern PA2, Fig. 9(B) is a second example of the second light-distribution variable pattern PA2, Fig. 10(A) is a third example of the second light-distribution variable pattern PA2, and Fig. 10(B) is a fourth example of the second light-distribution variable pattern PA2. In Figs. 9(A) to 10(B), the outline OL of the light-attenuating portion 38 in the first light-distribution variable pattern PA1, i.e., the outline OL before deformation, is shown by a dashed line.

[0098] 9(A), the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a pattern in which the outlines OL of the attenuation portions 38 are blurred and remain straight. Therefore, the attenuation portions 38 of the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 are rectangular in shape with blurred outlines OL.

[0099] 9(B), the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a pattern in which the outline line OL of the attenuation portion 38 is curved and blurred. Therefore, the attenuation portion 38 of the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a circle or ellipse with a blurred outline line OL.

[0100] 10(A), the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a pattern having a shape in which the light attenuation portion 38 in the first light distribution variable pattern PA1 extends up and down to the outer edge of the first light distribution variable pattern PA1. Therefore, the light attenuation portion 38 has only left and right contour lines OL within the second light distribution variable pattern PA2.

[0101] In a fourth example shown in FIG. 10(B), the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a pattern in which the dimming portion 38 of the first light distribution variable pattern PA1 extends to the outer edge of the first light distribution variable pattern PA1 either vertically or horizontally. The second light distribution variable pattern PA2 of this fourth example is formed when the situation determination unit 34 determines that the road ahead of the vehicle is curved. The dimming portion 38 extends vertically and to the side opposite to the direction of the curve. The direction of the curve can be determined using information from the navigation system 42 or image processing of the image IMG. In the example shown in FIG. 10(B), because there is a curved road ahead of the vehicle that turns right, the dimming portion 38 extends vertically, horizontally, and to the left. Therefore, the dimming portion 38 has only a right contour line OL within the second light distribution variable pattern PA2.

[0102] By blurring the contour lines OL of the attenuation portions 38 or extending part of the contour lines OL to the outer edge of the variable light distribution pattern PA so that they disappear from within the variable light distribution pattern PA, it is possible to reduce the sense of discomfort felt by the driver of the preceding vehicle LV due to the ghost phenomenon, compared to when the contour lines OL are clear or there are a large number of contour lines OL. Note that the attenuation portions 38 that overlap with the oncoming vehicle have the same contour shape in the first variable light distribution pattern PA1 and the second variable light distribution pattern PA2.

[0103] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of light distribution control executed by the light distribution control device 10. This flow is executed repeatedly at predetermined timing when an instruction to execute light distribution control is given by a light switch (not shown), for example, and the ignition is on.

[0104] The light distribution control device 10 determines whether a vehicle ahead is present (S101). If no vehicle ahead is present (N in S101), the light distribution control device 10 determines the pattern to be formed by the ADB unit 4 as a variable light distribution pattern PA that does not include the light attenuation section 38 (S102). If a vehicle ahead is present (Y in S101), the light distribution control device 10 determines whether a preceding vehicle LV is included (S103). If a preceding vehicle LV is not included (N in S103), this indicates that only an oncoming vehicle is present. Therefore, the light distribution control device 10 determines the pattern to be formed by the ADB unit 4 as a variable light distribution pattern PA that includes the light attenuation section 38 that overlaps with the oncoming vehicle (S104). If a preceding vehicle LV is included (Y in S103), the light distribution control device 10 determines whether a screen object 40 is present in front of the host vehicle (S105).

[0105] If it is determined that the screen object 40 is not present (N in S105), the light distribution control device 10 determines the first light distribution variable pattern PA1 as the pattern to be formed by the ADB unit 4 (S106). If it is determined that the screen object 40 is present (Y in S105), the light distribution control device 10 determines the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 as the pattern to be formed by the ADB unit 4 (S107). Note that if an oncoming vehicle is also present in the forward area, the light distribution pattern determined in steps S106 and S107 also includes the attenuation section 38 that overlaps with the oncoming vehicle. The light distribution control device 10 then controls the ADB unit 4 to form the determined light distribution pattern (S108), and ends this routine.

[0106] As described above, the light distribution control device 10 according to this embodiment controls the formation of a variable light distribution pattern PA by an ADB unit 4 (variable light distribution lamp) capable of irradiating a region in front of a vehicle with a visible light beam L1 having a variable intensity distribution. The light distribution control device 10 includes a situation determination unit 34 that determines whether a screen object 40 that functions as a screen onto which the variable light distribution pattern PA is projected is present in the region in front of the vehicle, and a pattern determination unit 36 ​​that, in a situation in which a preceding vehicle LV is present, determines a first variable light distribution pattern PA1 that includes a dimming unit 38 corresponding to the preceding vehicle LV if it is determined that the screen object 40 is not present, and determines a second variable light distribution pattern PA2 in which at least a portion of the outline OL of the dimming unit 38 in the first variable light distribution pattern PA1 is blurred or the dimming unit 38 extends in at least one direction to the outer edge of the first variable light distribution pattern PA1.

[0107] In this way, by blurring or reducing the number of contour lines OL of the dimming portion 38 projected onto the screen object 40, it is possible to alleviate the discomfort felt by the driver of the preceding vehicle LV due to the ghost phenomenon, thereby further improving the traffic environment.

[0108] Furthermore, the light attenuating portion 38 of this embodiment is a square having contour lines OL on the top, bottom, left, and right. One example of the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a pattern in which the contour lines OL remain straight and blurred. Another example of the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a pattern in which the contour lines OL are curved and blurred. Another example of the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a pattern in which the light attenuating portion 38 extends up and down to the outer edges of the first light distribution variable pattern PA1. Another example of the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 is a pattern in which the light attenuating portion 38 extends up and down and on the opposite side of the curve to the outer edges of the first light distribution variable pattern PA1. These features make it possible to reduce the sense of discomfort felt by the driver of the preceding vehicle LV while minimizing the complexity of light distribution control.

[0109] Furthermore, in this embodiment, dimming section 38 is formed in a region above cutoff line CL of low beam light distribution pattern PL. Dimming section 38 formed above cutoff line CL is more likely to cause a ghost phenomenon than dimming section 38 formed below cutoff line CL. Therefore, by forming second light distribution variable pattern PA2 in light distribution control that forms dimming section 38 above cutoff line CL, it is possible to further increase the effectiveness of forming second light distribution variable pattern PA2.

[0110] The third embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above. The third embodiment described above merely illustrates a specific example of implementing the present invention. The content of the embodiment does not limit the technical scope of the present invention, and many design modifications, such as changing, adding, or deleting components, are possible within the scope of the inventive concept defined in the claims. A new embodiment with a design modification will combine the effects of the combined embodiment and modification. In the above-described embodiment, the content that allows such design modifications is emphasized by using notations such as "in this embodiment" or "in this embodiment," but design modifications are also permitted even in content without such notation. Any combination of the above components is also valid as an aspect of the present invention. Hatching in cross sections in the drawings does not limit the material of the hatched object.

[0111] (Variation 2) In the third embodiment, the light distribution variable pattern PA to be formed is selected depending on the presence or absence of a screen object 40. In contrast, in this modification, the light distribution variable pattern PA is selected depending on the distance to the screen object 40 in addition to the presence or absence of the screen object 40. That is, when it is determined that the screen object 40 is present and the distance from the host vehicle to the screen object 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​determines the second light distribution variable pattern PA2.

[0112] For example, the situation determination unit 34 does not determine the presence or absence of the screen object 40 based solely on the shape of the road ahead of the vehicle, but actually detects the presence of the screen object 40 and its distance. The situation determination unit 34 can detect the presence or absence of the screen object 40 and its distance from the vehicle, for example, based on the image IMG acquired from the imaging device 6 and the measurement results of the distance measurement sensor 8. Then, when the situation determination unit 34 detects that the screen object 40 exists and that the distance from the vehicle to the screen object 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​controls the ADB unit 4 to form the second light distribution variable pattern PA2.

[0113] The closer the distance from the host vehicle to the screen object 40, the more clearly the dimming portion 38 is likely to be projected on the screen object 40. For this reason, the closer the screen object 40, the more likely the ghost phenomenon is to be visible to the driver of the preceding vehicle LV. Therefore, by including the distance to the screen object 40 in the conditions for forming the second light distribution variable pattern PA2, it is possible to narrow down the opportunities for forming the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 to situations in which the ghost phenomenon is more noticeable.

[0114] This reduces the frequency with which the visibility of the driver of the vehicle is reduced due to the formation of the second variable light distribution pattern PA2. It also increases the effectiveness of forming the second variable light distribution pattern PA2. The "predetermined value" for the distance from the vehicle to the screen object 40 can be set appropriately based on experiments and simulations, taking into account the degree of visibility of the ghost phenomenon, etc. Preferably, the predetermined value is 80 meters.

[0115] (Variation 3) In the third embodiment, the light distribution variable pattern PA to be formed is selected depending on the presence or absence of a screen object 40. In contrast, in this modification, the light distribution variable pattern PA is selected depending on the distance to the preceding vehicle LV in addition to the presence or absence of a screen object 40. That is, when it is determined that a screen object 40 is present and the distance from the host vehicle to the preceding vehicle LV is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​determines the second light distribution variable pattern PA2.

[0116] The situation determination unit 34 can detect the distance from the host vehicle to the preceding vehicle LV, for example, based on the image IMG acquired from the imaging device 6 and the measurement results of the distance measurement sensor 8. Then, when the situation determination unit 34 detects that a screen object 40 is present and that the distance from the host vehicle to the preceding vehicle LV is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the pattern determination unit 36 ​​controls the ADB unit 4 to form the second variable light distribution pattern PA2.

[0117] The closer the distance from the host vehicle to the preceding vehicle LV, the larger the dimming portion 38. Furthermore, within the range where the entire dimming portion 38 falls within the second light distribution variable pattern PA2, the larger the dimming portion 38, the more likely the ghost phenomenon is to be visible to the driver of the preceding vehicle LV. Therefore, by including the distance to the preceding vehicle LV in the conditions for forming the second light distribution variable pattern PA2, the opportunities for forming the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 can be narrowed down to situations where the ghost phenomenon is more noticeable.

[0118] This reduces the frequency with which the visibility of the driver of the vehicle is reduced due to the formation of the second light distribution variable pattern PA2. Also, the effectiveness of forming the second light distribution variable pattern PA2 can be further improved. The "predetermined value" for the distance from the vehicle to the preceding vehicle LV can be set appropriately based on experiments and simulations, taking into account the degree of visibility of the ghost phenomenon, etc. Preferably, the predetermined value is 30 meters.

[0119] In addition, modified examples 2 and variants 3 In combination with the above, when the situation determination unit 34 detects that the screen object 40 exists, that the distance from the host vehicle to the screen object 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined value, and that the distance from the host vehicle to the preceding vehicle LV is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the ADB unit 4 may be controlled to form the second variable light distribution pattern PA2.

[0120] The invention according to the above-described third embodiment may be specified by the following items. [Item 12] A light distribution control device (10) that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern (PA) by a light distribution variable lamp (4) that can irradiate a visible light beam (L1) having a variable intensity distribution to a front area of ​​a vehicle, a situation determination unit (34) that determines whether an object (40) that functions as a screen onto which the light distribution pattern (PA) is projected is present in a forward area; a pattern determination unit (36) that, when it is determined that an object (40) does not exist in a situation where a preceding vehicle (LV) exists, determines a first light distribution pattern (PA1) including a light-attenuating portion (38) corresponding to the preceding vehicle (LV), and, when it is determined that an object (40) exists, determines a second light distribution pattern (PA2) in which at least a part of the outline (OL) of the light-attenuating portion (38) in the first light distribution pattern (PA1) is blurred or the light-attenuating portion (38) extends to the outer edge of the first light distribution pattern (PA1) in at least one direction; Light distribution control device (10). [Item 13] The light-reducing portion (38) has a rectangular shape with contour lines (OL) on the top, bottom, left, and right sides. The second light distribution pattern (PA2) is a pattern in which the contour line (OL) remains straight and blurred. Item 13. The light distribution control device (10) according to item 12. [Item 14] The light-reducing portion (38) has a rectangular shape with contour lines (OL) on the top, bottom, left, and right sides. The second light distribution pattern (PA2) is a pattern in which the contour line (OL) is curved and blurred. Item 13. The light distribution control device (10) according to item 12. [Item 15] The light-reducing portion (38) has a rectangular shape with contour lines (OL) on the top, bottom, left, and right sides. The second light distribution pattern (PA2) has a dimming section ( 38 ) is a pattern that extends up and down to the outer edge of the first light distribution pattern (PA1), Item 13. The light distribution control device (10) according to item 12. [Item 16] The situation determination unit (34) determines that an object (40) is present when the road ahead of the vehicle is curved, The light-reducing portion (38) has a rectangular shape with contour lines (OL) on the top, bottom, left, and right sides. The second light distribution pattern (PA2) is a pattern in which the light attenuation portion (38) extends up and down and on the opposite side of the curve to the outer edge of the first light distribution pattern (PA1). Item 13. The light distribution control device (10) according to item 12. [Item 17] the pattern determination unit (36) determines a second light distribution pattern (PA2) when the distance to the object (40) is equal to or shorter than a predetermined value; 17. A light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 12 to 16. [Item 18] the pattern determination unit (36) determines a second light distribution pattern (PA2) when the distance to the preceding vehicle (LV) is equal to or shorter than a predetermined value; Item 18. A light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 12 to 17. [Item 19] The light-reducing portion (38) is formed in an area above the cutoff line (CL) of the low-beam light distribution pattern (PL). 19. A light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 12 to 18. [Item 20] a variable light distribution lamp (4) capable of irradiating a visible light beam (L1) having a variable intensity distribution toward a front area of ​​the vehicle; The light distribution control device (10) according to any one of items 12 to 19, Vehicle lighting system (1). [Item 21] A light distribution control method for controlling the formation of a light distribution pattern (PA) by a variable light distribution lamp (4) capable of irradiating a visible light beam (L1) having a variable intensity distribution in a front area of ​​a vehicle, comprising: determining whether an object (40) that functions as a screen onto which the light distribution pattern (PA) is projected is present in the forward region; In a situation where a preceding vehicle (LV) is present, when it is determined that an object (40) does not exist, a first light distribution pattern (PA1) including a light-attenuating portion (38) corresponding to the preceding vehicle (LV) is determined, and when it is determined that an object (40) exists, a second light distribution pattern (PA2) is determined in which at least a part of the outline (OL) of the light-attenuating portion (38) in the first light distribution pattern (PA1) is blurred or the light-attenuating portion (38) is extended to the outer edge of the first light distribution pattern (PA1) in at least one direction. Light distribution control method. [Industrial Applicability]

[0121] The present invention can be used in a light distribution control device, a vehicle lighting system, and a light distribution control method. [Explanation of symbols]

[0122] 1 Vehicle lighting system, 10 Light distribution control device, 34 Situation determination unit, 36 Pattern determination unit, 38 Dimming unit, 40 Screen object, 44 Branching path, 46 Path of travel, 48 Non-path of travel, CL Cut-off line, L1 Visible light beam, LV Leading vehicle, OL Contour line, PA Variable light distribution pattern, PA1 First variable light distribution pattern, PA2 Second variable light distribution pattern, PAi Light distribution pattern for guidance, PAn Normal light distribution pattern, PL Light distribution pattern for low beam, V Vehicle, X First location, Y Second location.

Claims

1. A light distribution control device that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by a light distribution variable lamp that can irradiate a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution in a front area of ​​a vehicle, In a situation where a normal light distribution pattern is formed that includes within its illumination range both a traveling path side and a non-traveling path side of the vehicle on a branching road, when the vehicle reaches a first point that is a predetermined distance before the branching road, the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-traveling path side is reduced, and the variable light distribution lamp is controlled to form a guiding light distribution pattern in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the traveling path side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-traveling path side, controlling the variable light distribution lamp so as to switch the guidance light distribution pattern to the normal light distribution pattern when a predetermined stop instruction signal is received from outside the light distribution control device; the stop instruction signal includes at least one of a signal transmitted from a voice input device in response to a voice input instructing to stop forming the guiding light distribution pattern, a signal transmitted by operating a cancel button for instructing to stop forming the guiding light distribution pattern, a signal transmitted from a steering angle sensor indicating a steering angle equal to or greater than a predetermined value, and a signal transmitted from a light switch instructing to turn on a turn signal lamp. Light distribution control device.

2. the predetermined distance is a distance at which the visible light beam can reach the branch path; The light distribution control device according to claim 1 .

3. The guiding light distribution pattern is formed so as to overlap with an area above the cutoff line of the low beam light distribution pattern. The light distribution control device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. controlling the variable light distribution lamp so as to form the guiding light distribution pattern regardless of the road shape of the travel path; The light distribution control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. controlling the variable light distribution lamp to form the guiding light distribution pattern without depending on the steering of the driver; The light distribution control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. controlling the variable light distribution lamp to switch the guidance light distribution pattern to the normal light distribution pattern when the vehicle reaches a second point that is closer to the branch road than the first point and before the branch road; The light distribution control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A light distribution control device that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by a light distribution variable lamp that can irradiate a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution in a front area of ​​a vehicle, In a situation where information regarding the vehicle's travel route is given and a normal light distribution pattern is formed that includes an illumination range of both the vehicle's travel route side and a non-travel route side at a branching road, when a driver of the vehicle indicates an intention to proceed to the vehicle's travel route side, the variable light distribution lamp is controlled to reduce the illuminance of light irradiated onto the non-travel route side and to form a guiding light distribution pattern in which the illuminance of light irradiated onto the travel route side is higher than the illuminance of light irradiated onto the non-travel route side, controlling the variable light distribution lamp so as to switch the guidance light distribution pattern to the normal light distribution pattern when a predetermined stop instruction signal is received from outside the light distribution control device; The intention expression includes at least one of a steering angle signal, which is transmitted from a steering angle sensor and indicates that the vehicle has been steered toward the traveling path, and a signal, which is transmitted from a light switch and instructs the vehicle to turn on a turn signal lamp toward the traveling path. Light distribution control device.

8. a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution toward a front area of ​​a vehicle; The light distribution control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, Vehicle lighting system.

9. A light distribution control method for controlling the formation of a light distribution pattern by a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution to a front area of ​​a vehicle, comprising: In a situation where a normal light distribution pattern is formed that includes within its illumination range both a traveling path side and a non-traveling path side of the vehicle on a branching road, when the vehicle reaches a first point that is a predetermined distance before the branching road, the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-traveling path side is reduced, and the variable light distribution lamp is controlled to form a guiding light distribution pattern in which the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the traveling path side is higher than the illuminance of the light irradiated onto the non-traveling path side, controlling the variable light distribution lamp to switch the guidance light distribution pattern to the normal light distribution pattern when a predetermined stop instruction signal is received, the stop instruction signal includes at least one of a signal transmitted from a voice input device in response to a voice input instructing to stop forming the guiding light distribution pattern, a signal transmitted by operating a cancel button for instructing to stop forming the guiding light distribution pattern, a signal transmitted from a steering angle sensor indicating a steering angle equal to or greater than a predetermined value, and a signal transmitted from a light switch instructing to turn on a turn signal lamp. Light distribution control method.

10. A light distribution control device that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by a light distribution variable lamp that can irradiate a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution in a front area of ​​a vehicle, a situation determination unit that determines whether an object that functions as a screen onto which the light distribution pattern is projected is present in a forward area; and a pattern determination unit that, when it is determined that the object does not exist in a situation where a preceding vehicle exists, determines a first light distribution pattern including a light-attenuating portion corresponding to the preceding vehicle, and, when it is determined that the object exists, determines a second light distribution pattern in which at least a part of the outline of the light-attenuating portion in the first light distribution pattern is blurred or the light-attenuating portion extends to an outer edge of the first light distribution pattern in at least one direction. Light distribution control device.

11. the attenuation unit has a rectangular shape with the contour lines on top, bottom, left, and right, The second light distribution pattern is a pattern in which the contour lines remain straight and blurred. The light distribution control device according to claim 10.

12. the attenuation unit has a rectangular shape with the contour lines on top, bottom, left, and right, The second light distribution pattern is a pattern in which the contour line is curved and blurred. The light distribution control device according to claim 10.

13. the attenuation unit has a rectangular shape with the contour lines on top, bottom, left, and right, The second light distribution pattern is a pattern in which the light attenuation portion extends up and down to the outer edge of the first light distribution pattern. The light distribution control device according to claim 10.

14. the situation determination unit determines that the object exists when the road ahead of the vehicle is curved, the attenuation unit has a rectangular shape with the contour lines on top, bottom, left, and right, The second light distribution pattern is a pattern in which the light attenuation portion extends to the outer edge of the first light distribution pattern above and below and on the side opposite to the turning direction of the curved road. The light distribution control device according to claim 10.

15. the pattern determination unit determines the second light distribution pattern when the distance to the object is equal to or shorter than a predetermined value. The light distribution control device according to any one of claims 10 to 14.

16. the pattern determination unit determines the second light distribution pattern when the distance to the preceding vehicle is equal to or shorter than a predetermined value. The light distribution control device according to any one of claims 10 to 15.

17. The attenuation portion is formed in an area above a cutoff line of a low beam light distribution pattern. The light distribution control device according to any one of claims 10 to 16.

18. a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution toward a front area of ​​a vehicle; The light distribution control device according to any one of claims 10 to 17, Vehicle lighting system.

19. A light distribution control method for controlling the formation of a light distribution pattern by a variable light distribution lamp capable of irradiating a visible light beam having a variable intensity distribution to a front area of ​​a vehicle, comprising: determining whether or not an object that functions as a screen onto which the light distribution pattern is projected is present in a forward region; In a situation where a preceding vehicle is present, when it is determined that the object is not present, a first light distribution pattern including a light-attenuating portion corresponding to the preceding vehicle is determined, and when it is determined that the object is present, a second light distribution pattern is determined in which at least a part of the outline of the light-attenuating portion in the first light distribution pattern is blurred or the light-attenuating portion is extended in at least one direction to an outer edge of the first light distribution pattern. Light distribution control method.

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