Vehicular lamp system, light distribution control device, and light distribution control method

Abstract

A vehicular lamp system 1 comprises: a first variable light distribution lamp 4 that forms a first light distribution pattern having a first hot zone; a second variable light distribution lamp 6 that forms a second light distribution pattern to the outside of the first light distribution pattern in the vehicle width direction; and a light distribution control device 8 that controls the first variable light distribution lamp 4 and the second variable light distribution lamp 6. The light distribution control device 8 controls the first variable light distribution lamp 4 and the second variable light distribution lamp 6 so that the first hot zone swivels within the first light distribution pattern, and so that the second light distribution pattern is formed outside of the first light distribution pattern to which the first hot zone swivels.

Description

Vehicle lighting system, light distribution control device, and light distribution control method

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, there has been proposed a vehicle lamp using a high-definition light source array in which light sources such as LEDs are arranged in a matrix (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-094127

[0004] Generally, the high beam light distribution pattern formed by a vehicle lamp has a portion called a hot zone where the illuminance or luminous intensity is high. By illuminating the hot zone in an area in front of the vehicle where particularly high visibility is required, the driver's visibility can be improved. When a vehicle lamp has a light source array, the hot zone can be formed by providing a gradient in the luminous intensity of each light source.

[0005] Furthermore, when a vehicle is turning, for example, and the driver's line of sight turns from the front of the vehicle to the turning direction, a technology is known in which the optical axis of a vehicle lamp is swiveled in the turning direction to improve the visibility of the turning destination. When the vehicle lamp is equipped with a light source array, the hot zone in the high beam light distribution pattern can be swiveled in the turning direction to improve the visibility of the turning destination in the same way as when the optical axis is swiveled.

[0006] There is a demand for expanding the swivel range of the hot zone to improve driver visibility. However, high-definition light source arrays are generally expensive. Furthermore, light source arrays have a structure in which many light sources are densely packed, making it difficult to dissipate heat. For these reasons, it is desirable to avoid increasing the size of the light source array itself.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and one of its objects is to provide a technology that improves the driver's visibility while suppressing an increase in the size of the light source array.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is a vehicle lighting system. The vehicle lighting system includes a first variable light distribution lamp that forms a first light distribution pattern having a first hot zone in a front region of the vehicle, a second variable light distribution lamp that forms a second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern in the vehicle width direction, and a light distribution control device that controls the formation of the light distribution pattern by the first variable light distribution lamp and the second variable light distribution lamp. The light distribution control device swivels the first hot zone within the first light distribution pattern and controls the first variable light distribution lamp and the second variable light distribution lamp to form the second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern to which the first hot zone has swiveled.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is a light distribution control device that controls the formation of light distribution patterns by a first variable light distribution lamp that forms a first light distribution pattern having a first hot zone in a front region of a vehicle, and a second variable light distribution lamp that forms a second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern in the vehicle width direction. This light distribution control device swivels the first hot zone within the first light distribution pattern, and controls the first variable light distribution lamp and the second variable light distribution lamp to form the second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern to which the first hot zone has swiveled.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention is a light distribution control method for controlling the formation of light distribution patterns by a first variable light distribution lamp that forms a first light distribution pattern having a first hot zone in a front region of a vehicle, and a second variable light distribution lamp that forms a second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern in the vehicle width direction. This light distribution control method includes swiveling the first hot zone within the first light distribution pattern, and controlling the first variable light distribution lamp and the second variable light distribution lamp to form the second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern to which the first hot zone has swiveled.

[0011] 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.

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the visibility for the driver while suppressing an increase in the size of the light source array.

[0013] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating a schematic configuration of a vehicle lighting system according to a first embodiment; FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram illustrating a light distribution pattern formed by each lamp; FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of light distribution control according to the first embodiment; FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of light distribution control according to the second embodiment; FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of light distribution control according to the third embodiment; FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of light distribution control according to the fourth embodiment; and FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of light distribution control according to the fifth embodiment.

[0014] 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. The same or equivalent components, parts, and processes shown in the drawings are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted where appropriate. The scale and shape of each part shown in the drawings 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 in the drawings.

[0015] (Embodiment 1) Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a vehicle lighting system 1 according to embodiment 1. 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.

[0016] The vehicle lighting system 1 includes a low beam lamp 2, a first variable light distribution lamp 4, a second variable light distribution lamp 6, and a light distribution control device 8. These components may all be housed in the same housing, or some components may be provided outside the housing. For example, the low beam lamp 2, the first variable light distribution lamp 4, the second variable light distribution lamp 6, and the light distribution control device 8 are housed in a lamp chamber. The lamp chamber is defined by a lamp body having an opening on the front side of the vehicle and a translucent cover attached to cover the opening of the lamp body. The light distribution control device 8 may be located outside the lamp chamber, for example, on the vehicle side. In this case, the light distribution control device 8 may be configured in whole or in part by a vehicle ECU. Alternatively, the low beam lamp 2, the first variable light distribution lamp 4, and the second variable light distribution lamp 6 may all be housed in separate housings.

[0017] The low beam lamp 2, as an example, has a light source mounting portion 10, a light source 12, a reflector 14, a shade member 16, and a projection lens 18. The light source mounting portion 10 is formed of a metal material such as aluminum, and is supported on the lamp body via a bracket (not shown). The light source mounting portion 10 has a light source mounting surface 10a. In this embodiment, the light source mounting surface 10a extends in a substantially horizontal direction. A light source 12 is mounted on the light source mounting surface 10a.

[0018] The light source 12 is, for example, an LED (light-emitting diode). The light source 12 may be a semiconductor light source other than an LED, such as an LD (laser diode), an organic or inorganic EL (electroluminescence), an incandescent lamp, a halogen lamp, or a discharge lamp. The light source 12 emits light toward the reflector 14. The reflector 14 is substantially dome-shaped and is disposed vertically above the light source 12 and fixed to the light source mounting portion 10. The reflector 14 has a reflective surface 14a formed of a portion of an ellipsoid of revolution. The reflective surface 14a has a first focal point and a second focal point located further forward from the first focal point. The positional relationship between the reflector 14 and the light source 12 is determined so that the light source 12 substantially coincides with the first focal point of the reflective surface 14a.

[0019] A shade member 16 is fixed to the light source mounting portion 10 on the front side of the lamp. The shade member 16 has a substantially horizontally disposed flat portion 16a and a curved portion 16b located further forward than the flat portion 16a. The curved portion 16b is curved downward so as not to block the light from the light source from entering a projection lens 18. The reflector 14 is positioned relative to the shade member 16 so that a ridge 16c formed by the flat portion 16a and the curved portion 16b is located near the second focal point of the reflecting surface 14a. A projection lens 18 is fixed to the tip of the curved portion 16b. The projection lens 18 may be, for example, 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 18 is positioned on the optical axis of the low beam lamp 2 so that its rear focal point approximately coincides with the second focal point of the reflecting surface 14a.

[0020] Light emitted from the light source 12 is reflected by the reflecting surface 14a and passes near the ridge line 16c before entering the projection lens 18. The light incident on the projection lens 18 is emitted forward of the lamp as substantially parallel light. At this time, the shade member 16 partially blocks the light from the light source from being emitted forward of the lamp. Specifically, a portion of the light emitted from the light source 12 is reflected by the flat surface 16a. In other words, the light from the light source 12 is selectively cut off, with the ridge line 16c serving as a boundary. As a result, a low-beam light distribution pattern (see FIG. 2) including a cutoff line corresponding to the shape of the ridge line 16c is formed in the area ahead of the vehicle. The low-beam lamp 2 receives a signal from the light distribution control device 8 instructing it to form a low-beam light distribution pattern, and forms the low-beam light distribution pattern in front of the vehicle.

[0021] The structure of the low beam lamp 2 is not limited to the above, and any known structure may be adopted. For example, the shade member 16 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 lamp 2 does not need to have the reflector 14 or the projection lens 18.

[0022] The first variable light distribution lamp 4 is capable of irradiating a visible light beam L1 with a variable intensity distribution toward a region ahead of the vehicle. The first variable light distribution lamp 4 is supported on a lamp body by a known connecting mechanism (not shown). The first variable light distribution lamp 4 is capable of individually changing the illuminance of light irradiated onto a plurality of individual regions arranged in the forward region. The first variable light distribution lamp 4 receives information instructing a first light distribution pattern from the light distribution control device 8, and emits a visible light beam L1 having an intensity distribution according to the first light distribution pattern. This forms the first light distribution pattern ahead of the vehicle.

[0023] The first variable light distribution lamp 4 of this embodiment has a light source array. The light source array includes a plurality of light sources arranged in a matrix and a circuit board capable of independently adjusting the brightness of each light source. Preferred examples of light sources include semiconductor light-emitting elements such as LEDs, LDs, and organic or inorganic ELs. The number of light sources, in other words, the resolution of the first variable light distribution lamp 4, is higher than the number of light sources of the second variable light distribution lamp 6, in other words, the resolution of the second variable light distribution lamp 6, and is, for example, 1,000 to 1.3 million pixels. The resolution of the variable light distribution lamp refers to the number of unit areas whose illuminance can be independently changed in the light distribution pattern.

[0024] The second variable light distribution lamp 6 is capable of irradiating a visible light beam L2 with a variable intensity distribution toward a region ahead of the vehicle. The second variable light distribution lamp 6 is supported on the lamp body by a known connecting mechanism (not shown). The second variable light distribution lamp 6 is capable of individually changing the illuminance of light irradiated onto a plurality of individual regions arranged in the forward region. The second variable light distribution lamp 6 receives information instructing a second light distribution pattern from the light distribution control device 8, and emits a visible light beam L2 having an intensity distribution according to the second light distribution pattern. This forms the second light distribution pattern ahead of the vehicle.

[0025] The second variable light distribution lamp 6 of this embodiment has a light source unit composed of multiple light sources arranged horizontally and a circuit board that can independently adjust the brightness of each light source. Preferred examples of the light source include semiconductor light-emitting elements such as LEDs, LDs, and organic or inorganic ELs. The resolution of the second variable light distribution lamp 6 is lower than that of the first variable light distribution lamp 4, for example, 10 to 50 pixels.

[0026] The structures of the first and second variable light distribution lamps 4 and 6 are not limited to those described above, and any known structure may be employed. For example, each variable light distribution lamp may have a matrix-type pattern forming device such as a DMD (Digital Mirror Device) or a liquid crystal device to form an illuminance distribution according to the light distribution pattern.

[0027] The light distribution control device 8 controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by the low beam lamp 2, the first light distribution variable lamp 4, and the second light distribution variable lamp 6. The light distribution control device 8 can be configured with a digital processor, and may be configured, for example, by 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). The light distribution control device 8 operates when the integrated circuit that configures it executes a program stored in memory.

[0028] The shape of the light distribution pattern formed by each lamp and the control of the formation of the light distribution pattern by the light distribution control device 8 will be described below. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the light distribution pattern formed by each lamp. FIG. 2 illustrates the maximum range of the light distribution pattern that each lamp can form. The light distribution pattern is understood as the two-dimensional illuminance distribution of the irradiation pattern that each lamp forms on a virtual vertical screen in front of the vehicle. Note that FIG. 2 shows a light distribution pattern for left-hand traffic.

[0029] The low beam lamp 2 can form a low beam light distribution pattern PL. 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 own lane side and 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.

[0030] The first variable light distribution lamp 4 can form a first light distribution pattern PV1 with a variable intensity distribution. FIG. 2 illustrates the first light distribution pattern PV1 when all light sources in the light source array of the first variable light distribution lamp 4 are turned on. The first light distribution pattern PV1 overlaps with an area above the cutoff line CL and is formed, for example, in an area where a known high-beam light distribution pattern would be formed. The first light distribution pattern PV1 has a structure comprising a collection of multiple first partial regions R1 arranged in a matrix. As an example, each first partial region R1 corresponds one-to-one to each light source of the first variable light distribution lamp 4. The illuminance of each first partial region R1 can be adjusted independently by adjusting the lighting state of each light source.

[0031] The second variable-light-distribution lamp 6 can form a second light distribution pattern PV2 with a variable intensity distribution. FIG. 2 illustrates the second light distribution pattern PV2 when all light sources of the light source unit of the second variable-light-distribution lamp 6 are turned on. The second light distribution pattern PV2 overlaps with the area above the cutoff line CL and is formed, for example, in an area that includes the first light distribution pattern PV1. The second light distribution pattern PV2 has a structure comprising a collection of multiple second partial regions R2 arranged in the vehicle width direction (horizontal direction). Each second partial region R2 is, for example, a strip-like shape that is elongated in the vertical direction and is longer in the vertical direction than the first light distribution pattern PV1. As an example, each second partial region R2 corresponds one-to-one to each light source of the second variable-light-distribution lamp 6. The illuminance of each second partial region R2 can be independently adjusted by adjusting the lighting state of each light source.

[0032] The second light distribution pattern PV2 is arranged to extend outward from the first light distribution pattern PV1 in the vehicle width direction. Therefore, a portion of the second partial region R2 overlaps with the first light distribution pattern PV1 in the center of the vehicle width direction, and other portions of the second partial region R2 are arranged outward from the first light distribution pattern PV1 at both ends in the vehicle width direction. Note that the shapes and arrangements of the first partial region R1 and the second partial region R2 can be changed as appropriate in accordance with the arrangement of the light sources in the first light distribution variable lamp 4 and the second light distribution variable lamp 6, etc.

[0033] The light distribution control device 8 executes the following light distribution control. Fig. 3(A) to Fig. 3(C) are schematic diagrams showing an example of light distribution control according to the first embodiment. Fig. 3(A) shows each light distribution pattern formed when the steering angle is 0°. Fig. 3(B) shows each light distribution pattern formed when the vehicle is steered to the left. Fig. 3(C) shows each light distribution pattern formed when the vehicle is steered to the right. Note that the low beam light distribution pattern PL is not shown in Fig. 3(A) to Fig. 3(C).

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3A , the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to form a first light distribution pattern PV1 having a first hot zone HZ1. The first hot zone HZ1 is an area in the first light distribution pattern PV1 that has higher illuminance (luminous intensity) than other areas. The first hot zone HZ1 is formed in an area in front of the vehicle that requires particularly high visibility. As an example, the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to form the first hot zone HZ1 above the cutoff line CL. Furthermore, when the steering angle is 0°, the first hot zone HZ1 is positioned approximately in the center of the vehicle width direction. For example, the vertical dimension of the first hot zone HZ1 is less than half the vertical dimension of the first light distribution pattern PV1, and the horizontal dimension of the first hot zone HZ1 is less than half the horizontal dimension of the first light distribution pattern PV1.

[0035] Although Fig. 3A illustrates the first hot zone HZ1 having an elliptical shape, the shape of the first hot zone HZ1 is not limited to that illustrated. Also, Fig. 3A illustrates the first hot zone HZ1 having an illuminance gradient in which the illuminance gradually decreases from the center to the periphery, but the first hot zone HZ1 does not have to have such an illuminance gradient.

[0036] Furthermore, the light distribution control device 8 controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form a second light distribution pattern PV2 in which the illuminance of second partial regions R2 located on both outer sides in the vehicle width direction and not overlapping with the first light distribution pattern PV1 is zero, and the illuminance of second partial regions R2 overlapping with the first light distribution pattern PV1 is greater than zero. In this way, the second light distribution pattern PV2 is formed using only some of the second partial regions R2, and the second partial regions R2 that do not form the second light distribution pattern PV2, i.e., the second partial regions R2 with zero illuminance, are moved in the vehicle width direction, making it possible to swivel the second light distribution pattern PV2 in a range from the outer left to the outer right of the first light distribution pattern PV1.

[0037] The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamps 6 to form a second hot zone HZ2 within the second light distribution pattern PV2. As an example, the light distribution control device 8 controls the second light distribution variable lamps 6 to form the second hot zone HZ2 above the cutoff line CL. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamps 6 to form the second hot zone HZ2 at a position overlapping the first hot zone HZ1 in the vehicle width direction. As described above, the second partial region R2 is vertically longer than the first light distribution pattern PV1. Therefore, the second hot zone HZ2 is vertically longer than the first hot zone HZ1.

[0038] The light distribution control device 8 then controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to swivel the first hot zone HZ1 (i.e., displace it in the vehicle width direction) within the first light distribution pattern PV1, as shown in Figures 3(B) and 3(C). For example, the light distribution control device 8 acquires a signal from a steering angle sensor 20 (steering sensor) mounted on the vehicle (see Figure 1). The light distribution control device 8 then swivels the first hot zone HZ1 in accordance with the output value of the steering angle sensor 20. This displaces the first hot zone HZ1 in the vehicle's turning direction, improving the visibility of the turning destination. Furthermore, by swiveling the first hot zone HZ1, a mechanism for swiveling the first light distribution variable lamp 4 itself can be omitted.

[0039] The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the second light distribution pattern PV2 in conjunction with the swivel of the first hot zone HZ1. Then, when the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the end of the first light distribution pattern PV1, the second light distribution variable lamp 6 is controlled to form the second light distribution pattern PV2 outside the first light distribution pattern PV1 to which the first hot zone HZ1 has swiveled. This allows light to be irradiated over a wider area in the vehicle's turning direction, improving driver visibility. "Forming the second light distribution pattern PV2 outside the first light distribution pattern PV1" means that at least a portion of the second light distribution pattern PV2 is located outside the first light distribution pattern PV1. Therefore, this also includes a state in which a portion of the second light distribution pattern PV2 overlaps with the first light distribution pattern PV1, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C .

[0040] The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the first hot zone HZ1 and the second hot zone HZ2 so that they overlap within the first light distribution pattern PV1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to displace the second hot zone HZ2 further outward when the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1. For example, when the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1 and the steering angle further increases, the light distribution control device 8 displaces the second hot zone HZ2 outward from the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1. This further improves the visibility of the area ahead when the vehicle is turning.

[0041] The light distribution control device 8 also controls the first variable light distribution lamp 4 to eliminate the first hot zone HZ1 that has reached the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1. As an example, the light distribution control device 8 eliminates the first hot zone HZ1 that has reached the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1 in accordance with the steering angle. For example, when the steering angle further increases after the first hot zone HZ1 has reached the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1, that is, as the second hot zone HZ2 moves outward in the vehicle width direction from the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1, the light distribution control device 8 gradually eliminates the first hot zone HZ1. In the examples shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C , the illuminance of the first hot zone HZ1 decreases from the center in the vehicle width direction and gradually disappears from the center in the vehicle width direction.

[0042] As a result, in the combined light distribution pattern obtained by combining the first light distribution pattern PV1 and the second light distribution pattern PV2, the hot zone appears to move outside the formation area of ​​the first light distribution pattern PV1 (the formation area of ​​the second light distribution pattern PV2). This makes it possible to guide the driver's line of sight to the destination where the vehicle is turning. Note that the first hot zone HZ1 may gradually disappear by uniformly reducing the overall illuminance.

[0043] As described above, the light distribution control device 8 according to this embodiment swivels the first hot zone HZ1 within the first light distribution pattern PV1, and controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 and the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form the second light distribution pattern PV2 outside the first light distribution pattern PV1 to which the first hot zone HZ1 swivels. In other words, one of the light distribution variable lamps swivels the hot zone, and the other light distribution variable lamp irradiates light outside the swivel range of the hot zone.

[0044] Combining two variable light distribution lamps in this way makes it possible to design a lamp in which one variable light distribution lamp is equipped with a high-resolution light source array and the other is equipped with a low-resolution light source unit. This makes it possible to improve driver visibility while preventing the light source array from becoming too large.

[0045] The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the second light distribution pattern PV2 in conjunction with the swivel of the first hot zone HZ1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the first hot zone HZ1 and the second hot zone HZ2 so that they overlap within the range of the first light distribution pattern PV1, and to displace the second hot zone HZ2 further outward when the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to eliminate the first hot zone HZ1 that has reached the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1. These features further improve the driver's visibility and guide the driver's gaze to the area they should focus on.

[0046] (Embodiment 2) Embodiment 2 has a common configuration with Embodiment 1, except for the control content of the light distribution control device 8. Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described focusing on the configuration that differs from Embodiment 1, and the common configuration will be briefly described or omitted. FIGS. 4(A) to 4(C) are schematic diagrams showing an example of light distribution control according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 4(A) shows the light distribution patterns formed when the steering angle is 0°. FIG. 4(B) shows the light distribution patterns formed when the vehicle is steered to the left. FIG. 4(C) shows the light distribution patterns formed when the vehicle is steered to the right. Note that the low-beam light distribution pattern PL is not shown in FIGS. 4(A) to 4(C).

[0047] As shown in FIG. 4A , the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to form a first light distribution pattern PV1 having a first hot zone HZ1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form a second light distribution pattern PV2 in only a second partial region R2. This makes it possible to displace the second light distribution pattern PV2 within a range from the outer left to the outer right of the first light distribution pattern PV1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form a second hot zone HZ2 within the second light distribution pattern PV2. The second hot zone HZ2 is formed at a position that overlaps with the first hot zone HZ1 in the vehicle width direction.

[0048] 4B and 4C, the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to swivel the first hot zone HZ1 within the first light distribution pattern PV1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the second light distribution pattern PV2 in conjunction with the swivel of the first hot zone HZ1. When the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1, the light distribution control device 8 controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form the second light distribution pattern PV2 outside the first light distribution pattern PV1 to which the first hot zone HZ1 has swiveled.

[0049] The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the first hot zone HZ1 and the second hot zone HZ2 so that they overlap within the range of the first light distribution pattern PV1, and also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to displace the second hot zone HZ2 further outward when the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1.

[0050] Furthermore, the light distribution control device 8 of this embodiment controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to maintain the first hot zone HZ1 that has reached the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1. By maintaining the first hot zone HZ1 even after the second hot zone HZ2 moves outside the first light distribution pattern PV1, the combination of the first hot zone HZ1 and the second hot zone HZ2 can illuminate a wider area in front of the vehicle. This provides the driver with a sense of security. Furthermore, if there is a large difference in maximum illuminance between the first light distribution variable lamp 4 and the second light distribution variable lamp 6, the disappearance of the first hot zone HZ1 may cause visual annoyance to the driver of the vehicle. Therefore, maintaining the first hot zone HZ1 can reduce the visual annoyance felt by the driver.

[0051] (Embodiment 3) Embodiment 3 has a common configuration with Embodiment 1, except for the control content of the light distribution control device 8. Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described focusing on the configuration that differs from Embodiment 1, and the common configuration will be briefly described or omitted. FIGS. 5(A) to 5(C) are schematic diagrams showing an example of light distribution control according to Embodiment 3. FIG. 5(A) shows each light distribution pattern formed when the steering angle is 0°. FIG. 5(B) shows each light distribution pattern formed when the vehicle is steered to the left. FIG. 5(C) shows each light distribution pattern formed when the vehicle is steered to the right. Note that the low-beam light distribution pattern PL is not shown in FIGS. 5(A) to 5(C).

[0052] As shown in Fig. 5A, the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to form a first light distribution pattern PV1 having a first hot zone HZ1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form a second light distribution pattern PV2 only in a second partial region R2. This makes it possible to displace the second light distribution pattern PV2 within a range from the outer left to the outer right of the first light distribution pattern PV1. The second light distribution pattern PV2 of this embodiment does not have a second hot zone HZ2 and has uniform illuminance overall.

[0053] 5B and 5C, the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to swivel the first hot zone HZ1 within the first light distribution pattern PV1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the second light distribution pattern PV2 in conjunction with the swivel of the first hot zone HZ1. When the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1, the second light distribution variable lamp 6 is controlled to form the second light distribution pattern PV2 outside the first light distribution pattern PV1 to which the first hot zone HZ1 has swiveled. The light distribution control device 8 of this embodiment also controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to maintain the first hot zone HZ1 that has reached the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1.

[0054] (Embodiment 4) Embodiment 4 has a common configuration with Embodiment 1, except for the control content of the light distribution control device 8. Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described focusing on the configuration that differs from Embodiment 1, and the common configuration will be briefly described or omitted altogether. FIGS. 6(A) to 6(C) are schematic diagrams showing an example of light distribution control according to Embodiment 4. FIG. 6(A) shows light distribution patterns formed when the steering angle is 0°. FIG. 6(B) shows light distribution patterns formed when the vehicle is steered to the left. FIG. 6(C) shows light distribution patterns formed when the vehicle is steered to the right. Note that the low-beam light distribution pattern PL is not shown in FIGS. 6(A) to 6(C).

[0055] As shown in Fig. 6A, the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to form a first light distribution pattern PV1 having a first hot zone HZ1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form a second light distribution pattern PV2 only in a second partial region R2. This makes it possible to displace the second light distribution pattern PV2 within a range from the outer left to the outer right of the first light distribution pattern PV1. The second light distribution pattern PV2 of this embodiment does not have a second hot zone HZ2 and has uniform illuminance overall.

[0056] 6(B) and 6(C), the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to swivel the first hot zone HZ1 within the first light distribution pattern PV1. The light distribution control device 8 also controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the second light distribution pattern PV2 in conjunction with the swivel of the first hot zone HZ1. When the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1, the light distribution control device 8 controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form the second light distribution pattern PV2 outside the first light distribution pattern PV1 to which the first hot zone HZ1 has swiveled.

[0057] Furthermore, when the steering angle further increases after the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1, the light distribution control device 8 of this embodiment controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to gradually eliminate the first hot zone HZ1. In the examples shown in Figures 6(B) and 6(C), the first hot zone HZ1 that has reached the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1 is gradually eliminated from the center in the vehicle width direction. Note that the first hot zone HZ1 may also be gradually eliminated by uniformly reducing the overall illuminance.

[0058] (Embodiment 5) Embodiment 5 has a common configuration with Embodiment 1, except for the control content of the light distribution control device 8. Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described focusing on the configuration that differs from Embodiment 1, and the common configuration will be briefly described or omitted altogether. FIGS. 7A to 7C are schematic diagrams showing an example of light distribution control according to Embodiment 5. FIG. 7A shows light distribution patterns formed when the steering angle is 0°. FIG. 7B shows light distribution patterns formed when the vehicle is steered left by a first angle. FIG. 7C shows light distribution patterns formed when the vehicle is steered left by a second angle greater than the first angle. Note that the low-beam light distribution pattern PL is not shown in FIGS. 7A to 7C.

[0059] 7A, the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to form a first light distribution pattern PV1 having a first hot zone HZ1. Furthermore, the light distribution control device 8 of this embodiment avoids the formation of a second light distribution pattern PV2 until the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 7(B), the light distribution control device 8 controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to swivel the first hot zone HZ1 within the first light distribution pattern PV1 in response to steering. Then, as shown in Fig. 7(C), when the first hot zone HZ1 reaches an end of the first light distribution pattern PV1, the light distribution control device 8 controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form a second light distribution pattern PV2 outside the first light distribution pattern PV1 to which the first hot zone HZ1 has swiveled. For example, when the steering angle is further increased when the first hot zone HZ1 has reached the end of the first light distribution pattern PV1, the light distribution control device 8 controls the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to form the second light distribution pattern PV2.

[0061] In the second light distribution pattern PV2 formed at this time, a second partial region R2 adjacent to the first light distribution pattern PV1 in the vehicle width direction has an illuminance equivalent to that of the first hot zone HZ1. The illuminance equivalent to that of the first hot zone HZ1 is, for example, the same illuminance as that of the first hot zone HZ1. Alternatively, the illuminance is, for example, an illuminance that can function as a hot zone in a combined light distribution pattern obtained by combining the first light distribution pattern PV1 and the second light distribution pattern PV2. Therefore, as the steering angle increases, the hot zone of the combined light distribution pattern is transferred from the region of the first light distribution pattern PV1 to the region of the second light distribution pattern PV2.

[0062] As described above, the second partial region R2 is longer in the vertical direction than the first light distribution pattern PV1. Therefore, when the hot zone of the combined light distribution pattern moves from the area of ​​the first light distribution pattern PV1 to the area of ​​the second light distribution pattern PV2, the size of the hot zone changes abruptly. This abrupt change in the size of the hot zone can be visually bothersome to the driver. Similarly, when the hot zone of the combined light distribution pattern moves from the area of ​​the second light distribution pattern PV2 back to the area of ​​the first light distribution pattern PV1 as the steering angle decreases, the size of the hot zone also changes abruptly, which can be visually bothersome to the driver.

[0063] In contrast, the light distribution control device 8 of this embodiment controls the first light distribution variable lamp 4 to expand the first hot zone HZ1 in the vertical direction as the first hot zone HZ1 approaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1, as shown in Figures 7(B) and 7(C). This prevents the hot zone of the combined light distribution pattern from suddenly changing in size when it straddles the area of ​​the first light distribution pattern PV1 and the area of ​​the second light distribution pattern PV2. This improves driver visibility.

[0064] The light distribution control device 8 may control the second light distribution variable lamp 6 to swivel the second light distribution pattern PV2, which has a uniform illuminance throughout, as in the third and fourth embodiments, until the first hot zone HZ1 reaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1. Even in this case, the hot zone may be visually bothersome to the driver when it straddles the area of ​​the first light distribution pattern PV1 and the area of ​​the second light distribution pattern PV2. Therefore, it is effective to expand the first hot zone HZ1 vertically as it approaches the edge of the first light distribution pattern PV1.

[0065] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention in detail. The above-described embodiments merely illustrate specific examples of implementing the present invention. The content of the embodiments does not limit the technical scope of the present invention, and many design modifications, such as changes, additions, and deletions of 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, design modifications that are possible are emphasized by using notations such as "in this embodiment" or "in this embodiment," but 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.

[0066] The invention according to the above-described embodiment may be specified by the following items: [First Item] A vehicle lighting system (1) including a first variable light distribution lamp (4) that forms a first light distribution pattern (PV1) having a first hot zone (HZ1) in a front region of a vehicle, a second variable light distribution lamp (6) that forms a second light distribution pattern (PV2) outside the first light distribution pattern (PV1) in the vehicle width direction, and a light distribution control device (8) that controls the formation of the light distribution pattern by the first variable light distribution lamp (4) and the second variable light distribution lamp (6), wherein the light distribution control device (8) swivels the first hot zone (HZ1) within the first light distribution pattern (PV1) and controls the first variable light distribution lamp (4) and the second variable light distribution lamp (6) to form the second light distribution pattern (PV2) outside the first light distribution pattern (PV1) to which the first hot zone (HZ1) has swiveled. [Item 2] The vehicle lighting system (1) described in Item 1, wherein the second light distribution pattern (PV2) is swivellable within a range from the outer left to the outer right of the first light distribution pattern (PV1), and the light distribution control device (8) controls the second variable light distribution lamp (6) to swivel the second light distribution pattern (PV2) in conjunction with the swivel of the first hot zone (HZ1). [Item 3] The vehicle lighting system (1) described in Item 2, wherein the second light distribution pattern (PV2) has a second hot zone (HZ2), and the light distribution control device (8) swivels the first hot zone (HZ1) and the second hot zone (HZ2) so as to overlap within the range of the first light distribution pattern (PV1), and controls the second variable light distribution lamp (8) to displace the second hot zone (HZ2) further outward when the first hot zone (HZ1) reaches an end of the first light distribution pattern (PV1). [Item 4] The vehicle lighting system (1) according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the light distribution control device (8) controls the first variable light distribution lamp (4) to eliminate the first hot zone (HZ1) that has reached an end of the first light distribution pattern (PV1).[Item 5] The first variable light distribution lamp (4) is capable of independently adjusting the illuminance of a plurality of first partial regions (R1) arranged in a matrix, the second variable light distribution lamp (6) is capable of independently adjusting the illuminance of a plurality of second partial regions (R2) arranged in the vehicle width direction and each second partial region (R2) is longer in the vertical direction than the first light distribution pattern (PV1), and the light distribution control device (8) controls the first variable light distribution lamp (4) and the second variable light distribution lamp (6) so that the first hot zone (HZ1) expands in the vertical direction as the first hot zone (HZ1) approaches an end of the first light distribution pattern (PV1), and when the first hot zone (HZ1) reaches the end, the second partial region (R2) adjacent to the first light distribution pattern (PV1) forms a second light distribution pattern (PV2) whose illuminance is equivalent to the illuminance of the first hot zone (HZ1). A vehicle lighting system (1) according to any one of items 1 to 4. [Item 6] The vehicle lighting system (1) according to any one of items 1 to 5, comprising: a low beam lamp (2) that forms a low beam light distribution pattern (PL) including a cutoff line (CL), the second light distribution pattern (PV2) has a second hot zone (HZ2), and a light distribution control device (8) that controls the first light distribution variable lamp (4) and the second light distribution variable lamp (6) so as to form the first hot zone (HZ1) and the second hot zone (HZ2) above the cutoff line (CL). [Item 7] A light distribution control device (8) that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by a first variable light distribution lamp (4) that forms a first light distribution pattern (PV1) having a first hot zone (HZ1) in a front region of a vehicle, and a second variable light distribution lamp (6) that forms a second light distribution pattern (PV2) outside the first light distribution pattern (PV1) in the vehicle width direction, wherein the light distribution control device (8) swivels the first hot zone (HZ1) within the first light distribution pattern (PV1), and controls the first variable light distribution lamp (4) and the second variable light distribution lamp (6) to form the second light distribution pattern (PV2) outside the first light distribution pattern (PV1) to which the first hot zone (HZ1) has swiveled.[Item 8] A light distribution control method for controlling the formation of a light distribution pattern by a first variable light distribution lamp (4) that forms a first light distribution pattern (PV1) having a first hot zone (HZ1) in a front region of a vehicle, and a second variable light distribution lamp (6) that forms a second light distribution pattern (PV2) outside the first light distribution pattern (PV1) in the vehicle width direction, the light distribution control method including swivels the first hot zone (HZ1) within the first light distribution pattern (PV1), and controls the first variable light distribution lamp (4) and the second variable light distribution lamp (6) to form the second light distribution pattern (PV2) outside the first light distribution pattern (PV1) to which the first hot zone (HZ1) has swiveled.

[0067] The present invention can be used in a vehicle lighting system, a light distribution control device, and a light distribution control method.

[0068] 1 Vehicle lighting system, 2 Low beam lamp, 4 First light distribution variable lamp, 6 Second light distribution variable lamp, 8 Light distribution control device, CL Cut-off line, HZ1 First hot zone, HZ2 Second hot zone, PL Low beam light distribution pattern, PV1 First light distribution pattern, PV2 Second light distribution pattern, R1 First partial area, R2 Second partial area.

Claims

1. a first variable light distribution lamp that forms a first light distribution pattern having a first hot zone in a front area of ​​the vehicle; a second variable light distribution lamp that forms a second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern in the vehicle width direction; a light distribution control device that controls the formation of a light distribution pattern by the first light distribution variable lamp and the second light distribution variable lamp, the light distribution control device swivels the first hot zone within the first light distribution pattern, and controls the first light distribution variable lamp and the second light distribution variable lamp to form the second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern to which the first hot zone is swiveled. Vehicle lighting system.

2. the second light distribution pattern is swivellable within a range from a left outer side to a right outer side of the first light distribution pattern, the light distribution control device controls the second light distribution variable lamp to swivel the second light distribution pattern in conjunction with the swivel of the first hot zone; 2. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 1.

3. the second light distribution pattern has a second hot zone; the light distribution control device swivels the first hot zone and the second hot zone so that they overlap within the range of the first light distribution pattern, and controls the second light distribution variable lamp to displace the second hot zone further outward when the first hot zone reaches an end of the first light distribution pattern.

3. The vehicle lighting system according to claim 2.

4. the light distribution control device controls the first variable light distribution lamp so as to eliminate the first hot zone that has reached an end of the first light distribution pattern.

4. A vehicle lighting system according to claim 1.

5. the first variable light distribution lamp is capable of independently adjusting illuminance of a plurality of first partial regions arranged in a matrix; the second variable light distribution lamp has a plurality of second partial regions arranged in a vehicle width direction, and the illuminance of the plurality of second partial regions that are longer in a vertical direction than the first light distribution pattern can be independently adjusted; the light distribution control device expands the first hot zone in the vertical direction as the first hot zone approaches an end of the first light distribution pattern, and controls the first light distribution variable lamp and the second light distribution variable lamp so that, when the first hot zone reaches the end, the second partial region adjacent to the first light distribution pattern forms the second light distribution pattern having an illuminance equivalent to the illuminance of the first hot zone.

4. A vehicle lighting system according to claim 1.

6. A low beam lamp is provided which forms a low beam light distribution pattern including a cut-off line, the second light distribution pattern has a second hot zone; the light distribution control device controls the first light distribution variable lamp and the second light distribution variable lamp so as to form the first hot zone and the second hot zone above the cutoff line.

4. A vehicle lighting system according to claim 1.

7. A light distribution control device that controls formation of a light distribution pattern by a first light distribution variable lamp that forms a first light distribution pattern having a first hot zone in a front region of a vehicle, and a second light distribution variable lamp that forms a second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern in a vehicle width direction, swivels the first hot zone within the first light distribution pattern, and controls the first light distribution variable lamp and the second light distribution variable lamp to form the second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern to which the first hot zone is swiveled. Light distribution control device.

8. A light distribution control method for controlling formation of a light distribution pattern by a first light distribution variable lamp that forms a first light distribution pattern having a first hot zone in a front region of a vehicle, and a second light distribution variable lamp that forms a second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern in a vehicle width direction, comprising: swivels the first hot zone within the first light distribution pattern, and controls the first light distribution variable lamp and the second light distribution variable lamp to form the second light distribution pattern outside the first light distribution pattern to which the first hot zone is swiveled. Light distribution control method.