Saddled vehicle

Abstract

The present invention allows people to easily recognize a vehicle even if there is an obstacle to the side of the vehicle.　In a saddled vehicle having a lighting device (41), the lighting device (41) emits predetermined light from which a higher brightness than the headlight light of the vehicle can be obtained at a predetermined position away from the vehicle, the predetermined light being emitted from a position forward of the center in the front-rear direction of the vehicle.

Description

Saddle-type vehicle

[0001] The present invention relates to a saddle-ride type vehicle.

[0002] Some vehicles are provided with auxiliary lamps in their headlight units that illuminate areas other than the illumination area of ​​the headlights. For example, in the vehicle described in Patent Document 1, large-angle lamps, medium-angle lamps, and large-diffusion lamps are arranged in this order from the center of the vehicle to the outside, and the large-diffusion lamps are configured to illuminate areas from the front to the sides and further to the rear of the vicinity of the vehicle, making it easier for the driver to see pedestrians, bicycles, and the like that are present near the vehicle.

[0003] JP 2010-111132 A

[0004] However, the conventional configurations are primarily intended to enable drivers to check for pedestrians, bicycles, etc., and are not primarily intended to make it easier for drivers of other vehicles and pedestrians to notice the vehicle. Furthermore, the conventional configurations have a risk of the light being blocked by an obstacle to the side of the vehicle. The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and aims to make it easier for others to notice the vehicle even when there is an obstacle to the side of the vehicle.

[0005] This specification includes the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-059381, filed on March 31, 2023. The present invention provides a saddle-ride type vehicle having a lighting device, wherein the lighting device emits a predetermined light that provides a higher brightness than the light from the vehicle's headlights at a predetermined position spaced apart from the vehicle, and the predetermined light is emitted from a position forward of the center of the front-to-rear of the vehicle.

[0006] This makes it easier for others to notice the vehicle even if there is an obstacle on the side of the vehicle.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a side view of a saddle-ride type vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a view showing a state in which the front cover is removed from the light unit, as viewed from the front. FIG. 3 is a left side view of the housing. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the housing. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the shape of a first opening. FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically showing another example of the shape of the first opening. FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing a pair of left and right light emitting units together with the peripheral configuration as viewed from above the vehicle. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a traveling situation in which multiple vehicles are traveling, as viewed from above. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a vehicle together with other vehicles from above. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a vehicle together with other vehicles from above. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a situation in which pedestrians are present on the left and right sides of a traveling saddle-ride type vehicle. FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically showing a pair of left and right light emitting units according to another embodiment together with the peripheral configuration as viewed from above the vehicle. FIG. 13 is a diagram provided for explaining a modified example.

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description, directions such as front, rear, left, right, up and down are the same as directions relative to the vehicle body unless otherwise specified. In addition, the symbol FR in each drawing indicates the front of the vehicle body, the symbol UP indicates the upper side of the vehicle body, and the symbol LH indicates the left side of the vehicle body.

[0009] 1 is a side view of a saddle-ride type vehicle 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The saddle-ride type vehicle 10 is a vehicle including a body frame 11, a power unit 12 supported by the body frame 11, a front fork 14 that supports a front wheel 13 so as to be steerable, a swing arm 16 that supports a rear wheel 15, and a seat 17 for a rider. The saddle-ride type vehicle 10 is a vehicle in which a rider sits astride on the seat 17. The seat 17 is provided above the rear of the body frame 11.

[0010] The body frame 11 includes a head pipe 18 provided at the front end of the body frame 11, a front frame 19 located rearward of the head pipe 18, and a rear frame 20 located rearward of the front frame 19. The front end of the front frame 19 is connected to the head pipe 18. The seat 17 is supported by the rear frame 20.

[0011] The front forks 14 are supported by a head pipe 18 so as to be steerable to the left and right. The front wheel 13 is supported by an axle 13a provided at the lower end of the front forks 14. A steering handle 21 that is gripped by the rider and used for steering is attached to the upper end of the front forks 14.

[0012] The swing arm 16 is supported by a pivot shaft 22 that is supported by the body frame 11. The pivot shaft 22 is a shaft that extends horizontally in the vehicle width direction. The pivot shaft 22 is inserted into the front end of the swing arm 16. The swing arm 16 swings up and down around the pivot shaft 22. The rear wheel 15 is supported by an axle 15a that is provided at the rear end of the swing arm 16.

[0013] The power unit 12 is disposed between the front wheel 13 and the rear wheel 15 and is supported by the body frame 11. The power unit 12 is an internal combustion engine. The power unit 12 includes a crankcase 23 and a cylinder section 24 that houses a reciprocating piston. An exhaust device 25 is connected to an exhaust port of the cylinder section 24. The output of the power unit 12 is transmitted to the rear wheel 15 by a driving force transmission member that connects the power unit 12 and the rear wheel 15.

[0014] The saddle-ride type vehicle 10 also includes a front fender 26 that covers the front wheel 13 from above, a rear fender 27 that covers the rear wheel 15 from above, steps 28 on which a rider places their feet, and a fuel tank 29 that stores fuel used by the power unit 12. The front fender 26 is attached to the front fork 14. The rear fender 27 and steps 28 are provided below the seat 17. The fuel tank 29 is supported by the body frame 11.

[0015] The saddle-ride type vehicle 10 includes a vehicle body cover 30 that covers the vehicle body. The vehicle body cover 30 includes a front cover 31 that covers the front portion of the vehicle body from the front and the left and right sides, and an inner cover 32 that covers the front frame 19 from above. The front cover 31 has a cover shape that widens in the vehicle width direction and up and down direction as it goes rearward, and is formed in a shape that is symmetrical with respect to the center of the vehicle width. A light unit 41 is attached to the front cover 31.

[0016] The light unit 41 is a unit that constitutes part of the lighting equipment of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10, and is also referred to as a headlight unit. The light unit 41 has a front cover 42 that covers the front surface. The front surface of the front cover 42 is formed in a shape that is continuous with the front surface of the front cover 31, that is, it is formed in an inclined shape that slopes rearward the further it moves left and right and up and down from the center of the vehicle width. The front cover 42 includes an outer lens. The light unit 41 is located forward of the center of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 in the fore-and-aft direction, and more specifically, forward of the steering handlebar 21a and the body frame 11.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a front view of the light unit 41 with the front cover 42 removed. The symbol LC in FIG. 2 indicates the center of the vehicle width. As shown in FIG. 2, the light unit 41 has a housing 43 (also called a casing) that extends outward to the left and right based on the center of the vehicle width LC. This housing 43 has a pair of left and right low beam irradiation units 51, a pair of left and right high beam irradiation units 52, and a pair of left and right light irradiation units 53. The area surrounded by the dashed dotted line in FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the range in which each irradiation unit 51 to 53 emits light. Emitting light means that light is emitted from the vehicle body.

[0018] The light unit 41, which includes the housing 43 and the illumination units 51 to 53, is symmetrical with respect to the vehicle width center LC. The components that make up the low beam illumination unit 51, the high beam illumination unit 52, and the light illumination unit 53 are housed in the housing 43.

[0019] A pair of left and right low beam irradiators 51 are provided with a gap between them. Each low beam irradiator 51 includes a low beam light source 51a and a low beam reflector 51b that reflects light from the low beam light source 51a to produce a low beam. The low beam light source 51a is a well-known light source such as an LED, and emits visible light. The low beam reflector 51b is formed as a reflecting mirror that diffuses and reflects the light from the low beam light source 51a toward the front of the vehicle, thereby achieving the forward illumination required for low beams (so-called passing headlights).

[0020] FIG. 3 is a left side view of the housing 43, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the housing 43. As shown in FIG. 3, the pair of left and right high beam irradiators 52 are provided on the left and right outer sides and rearward of the pair of left and right low beam irradiators 51. As shown in FIG. 2, each high beam irradiator 52 includes a high beam light source 52a and a high beam reflector 52b that reflects light from the high beam light source 52a to produce a high beam. The high beam light source 52a is a well-known light source such as an LED, and emits visible light. The high beam reflector 52b is formed as a reflecting mirror that diffuses and reflects light from the high beam light source 52a toward the front of the vehicle, thereby achieving the forward illumination required for a high beam (so-called driving headlight).

[0021] The housing 43 has a ceiling portion 43T (see FIGS. 3 and 4) integrally formed therewith, which extends forward above the low beam reflector 51 b and the high beam reflector 52 b. The ceiling portion 43T has a low beam opening 51 c (see FIG. 4) that opens toward the low beam reflector 51 b, and a high beam opening 52 c (see FIG. 4) that opens toward the high beam reflector 52 b.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2 , the low beam light source 51a is located above the low beam opening 51c (corresponding to the opposite side of the low beam reflector 51b with respect to the low beam opening 51c). Light from the low beam light source 51a that passes through the low beam opening 51c is reflected by the low beam reflector 51b. The high beam light source 52a is located above the high beam opening 52c (corresponding to the opposite side of the high beam reflector 52b with respect to the high beam opening 52c). Light from the high beam light source 52a that passes through the high beam opening 52c is reflected by the high beam reflector 52b. The low beam opening 51c and the high beam opening 52c adjust the light incident on each reflector 51b, 52b.

[0023] A partition wall 43W is provided between the low beam reflector 51b and the high beam reflector 52b, and this partition wall 43W separates the low beam irradiation unit 51 from the high beam irradiation unit 52. This partition wall 43W prevents light from the low beam light source 51a from entering the high beam reflector 52b, and also prevents light from the high beam light source 52a from entering the low beam reflector 51b.

[0024] The pair of left and right light emitting units 53 emit light LA ​​and LB to improve the visibility of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 to others outside the vehicle. These light LA ​​and LB are parallel or quasi-parallel light with a small divergence angle, which provides higher brightness at a predetermined position away from the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 than low-beam or high-beam headlight light, which is generally diffused light. This ensures that the light LA ​​and LB are distinguishable from the headlight light. Therefore, others located in the direction of the light LA ​​and LB can easily recognize the light LA ​​and LB, thereby alerting others outside the vehicle to the presence of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10. Here, the predetermined position refers to a position in the direction of the light LA ​​and LB, and can also be referred to as a position farther away from the headlight light or a position away from the illumination range of the headlight light. The predetermined position includes positions P1 and P2 (FIGS. 9 and 10) of another vehicle 111, described below, relative to the saddle-ride type vehicle 10. The light LA ​​and LB correspond to the "predetermined light" of the present invention, and hereinafter, when the light LA ​​and LB are to be particularly distinguished from each other, they will be referred to as the first light LA ​​and the second light LB, respectively.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the pair of left and right light irradiation units 53 are provided on the inner and outer sides of the pair of left and right low beam irradiation units 51 and forward of them. Each light irradiation unit 53 includes a first light source 53a, a first reflector 53b that reflects light from the first light source 53a to generate first light LA, and a second reflector 53c that reflects light from the first light source 53a to generate second light LB. The first light source 53a is a known light source such as an LED and emits visible light. The first light source 53a is the light source located furthest inward in the vehicle width direction and furthest forward and lowest among the multiple light sources 51a, 52a, and 53a included in the light unit 41. These light sources 51a, 52a, and 53a are located forward of the handlebar 21a and the body frame 11. These light sources 1a, 52a, and 53a are not limited to point light sources, but may be planar light sources in which multiple light-emitting elements are densely arranged to emit planar light. The surface light source is, for example, a COB (Chips on Board) type or an SMD (Surface Mount Device) type LED.

[0026] The first reflector 53b and the second reflector 53c are positioned forward and below the multiple light sources 51a, 52a, 53a and the other reflectors 51b, 52b. Supported by the housing 43, the first reflector 53b and the second reflector 53c are positioned forward of and between the left and right headlight light sources, which are the low beam light source 51a and the high beam light source 52a. As shown in FIG. 2 , the ceiling portion 43T of the housing 43 has a first opening 53d that opens in the vertical direction below the first light source 53a and above the first reflector 53b and the second reflector 53c. As shown in FIG. 3 , the first opening 53d is positioned rearward of the light irradiation unit 53, which includes the first reflector 53b and the second reflector 53c. Light from the first light source 53a that passes through the first opening 53d is reflected by the first reflector 53b and the second reflector 53c.

[0027] In this configuration, the first opening 53d limits the light incident from the first light source 53a into the light unit 41. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the shape of the first opening 53d, corresponding to the A-A cross section in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 5, the first opening 53d is formed as a through-hole with a trapezoidal cross section in a side cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view cut along a plane extending in the axial direction of the first opening 53d). One inner surface 53d1 (the front inner surface in this embodiment) of the front and rear inner surfaces of the first opening 53d is formed as a surface extending in the vertical direction, and the other inner surface 53d2 (the rear inner surface in this embodiment) is formed as an inclined surface that is oblique to the vertical direction and narrows the opening of the first opening 53d as it moves away from the first light source 53a.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 5 , direct light from the first light source 53a toward each of the reflectors 53b and 53c passes through the first opening 53d, enters each of the reflectors 53b and 53c, and is reflected by each of the reflectors 53b and 53c. In contrast, a portion of the light incident on the inner surface 53d1 extending vertically from the first light source 53a is reflected by the inner surface 53d1 and enters the other inner surface 53d2. The other inner surface 53d2 reflects the light reflected by the other inner surface 53 upward. The other inner surface 53d2 also reflects the light incident from the first light source 53a upward. In this way, light that does not enter either the first reflector 53b or the second reflector 53c is prevented from entering the light unit 41.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example shape of the first opening 53d. FIG. 6 corresponds to the A-A cross section of FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 6, the first opening 53d is narrowed to a small-diameter through-hole 53d3 through which the direct light from the first light source 53a toward the reflectors 53b and 53c passes, thereby preventing light that does not enter either the first reflector 53b or the second reflector 53c from entering the light unit 41. In addition, the hole of the first opening 53d on the first light source 53a side is a large-diameter through-hole 53d4 connected to the small-diameter through-hole 53d3, thereby utilizing the inner surface of the large-diameter through-hole 53d4 to efficiently reflect the light incident from the first light source 53a out of the light unit 41.

[0030] The first reflector 53b is formed as a reflecting mirror that irradiates light from the first light source 53a in a predetermined direction. This direction is set to a direction suitable for improving the visibility of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 from outside the vehicle. In addition, the irradiation angle range of the first light LA ​​can be changed by moving the first reflector 53b closer to or farther away from the first light source 53a. Changing the irradiation angle range also makes it possible to change the cross-sectional area of ​​the first light LA ​​that has a predetermined brightness or higher.

[0031] For example, when it is desired that the first light LA ​​be perceived by others for only a short time or when it is important that the first light LA ​​be perceived by others at a distance, it is preferable to set the position of the first reflector 53b, etc. so as to narrow the irradiation angle range. Furthermore, when it is important that the light LA ​​be perceived by others located in a relatively wide range or nearby, it is preferable to set the position of the first reflector 53b, etc. so as to widen the irradiation angle range. Furthermore, the irradiation angle range may be changed by changing the shape of the first reflector 53b.

[0032] Furthermore, when the first reflector 53b converts the first light LA ​​into parallel light, the first reflector 53b may be, for example, a reflecting mirror having a paraboloid of revolution with a focus at the position of the first light source 53a, on the reflecting surface of which an area capable of irradiating the light LA ​​of a predetermined width in a desired direction is formed. When the first light LA ​​is converted into quasi-parallel light, the reflecting surface of the first reflector 53b may be, for example, a reflecting surface approximating a paraboloid of revolution. Quasi-parallel light is divergent light that is close to parallel light. Because the divergence angle of quasi-parallel light is small, it can irradiate light of a certain brightness or higher over a relatively long distance, similar to parallel light.

[0033] The second reflector 53c is formed as a reflecting mirror that irradiates light from the first light source 53a in a predetermined direction. This direction is set toward others (targets of illumination) to improve the visibility of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10. As in the case of the first reflector 53b, by adjusting the position or changing the shape of the second reflector 53c, it is possible to change the irradiation angle range of the second light LB, increase or decrease the cross-sectional area of ​​the second light LB (corresponding to a cross-sectional area having a predetermined level of brightness or more (e.g., illuminance or luminance recognizable by others)), or make the second light LB a parallel light, a quasi-parallel light, or the like.

[0034] 2 illustrates an example in which there is one first light source 53a for the light LA ​​and the light LB, but a light source may be provided for each of the light LA ​​and the light LB. In this case, the brightness and illuminance of the light LA ​​and the light LB can be easily changed.

[0035] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a pair of left and right light irradiation units 53 together with the surrounding configuration as viewed from above the vehicle. In Fig. 7, the light unit 41 is shown as a left headlight light irradiation unit 41L consisting of a low beam irradiation unit 51 and a high beam irradiation unit 52 on the left side, and a right headlight light irradiation unit 41R consisting of a low beam irradiation unit 51 and a high beam irradiation unit 52 on the right side. As shown in Fig. 7, the front surface of the light unit 41 including the pair of left and right headlight light irradiation units 41L, 41R has an inclined shape that narrows in the vehicle width direction as it goes forward.

[0036] Next, the light beams LA and LB will be described. As described above, the light beams LA and LB are light beams that have a higher brightness than headlight light, which is diffused light, in the direction in which the light beams LA and LB are emitted. The light beams LA and LB will be described in relation to a driving situation. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a driving situation in which a plurality of vehicles are driving, as viewed from above. FIG. 8 shows an intersection (also called a crossroads) 100 where two roads intersect, along with the surrounding area. A road including a lane 101A on which another vehicle 111 (hereinafter referred to as "another vehicle 111") is driving is referred to as a "first road 101," and a road intersecting the first road 101 is referred to as a "second road 102."

[0037] As an example of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 of this embodiment, vehicles 10A and 10B consisting of motorcycles positioned at an intersection 100 are shown. Vehicle 10A is positioned on a second road 102 and is attempting to turn left onto lane 101A (the lane in which another vehicle 111 is traveling) of a first road 101. Vehicle 10B is positioned on the opposite lane (also referred to as an oncoming road) 101B of the lane 101A in which the other vehicle 111 is traveling and is attempting to make a U-turn at the intersection 100 or turn right onto the second road 102. Reference numeral 105 in Fig. 8 denotes a stop line where vehicle 10A will stop.

[0038] FIG. 9 is a top view of the vehicle 10A together with another vehicle 111. As shown in FIG. 9, the vehicle 10A emits light LA ​​and light LB in directions at angles θ1 and θ2, which correspond to the front and lateral directions of the vehicle. The angle θ1 is the direction in which the first light LA ​​is emitted toward the driver of the other vehicle 111 when the other vehicle 111 is at position P1 on the lane 101A. FIG. 9 illustrates a case in which the first light LA ​​is emitted toward the front and lateral directions of the vehicle 10A relative to the vehicle 10A. The angle θ2 is the direction in which the second light LB is emitted toward the driver of the other vehicle 111 when the other vehicle 111 is at position P2 on the lane 101A. FIG. 8 illustrates a case in which the second light LB is emitted toward the front and lateral directions of the vehicle 10A relative to the vehicle 10A. The other vehicle 111 may be a vehicle following the vehicle 10A after the vehicle 10A makes a left turn. As shown in FIG. 9, position P2 corresponds to a position closer to the vehicle 10A in the vehicle width direction than position P1.

[0039] Positions P1 and P2 are set based on simulations and experiments as positions suitable for other vehicle 111 to avoid contact with vehicle 10A. For example, positions P1 and P2 are set as positions where other vehicle 111 can avoid contact with vehicle 10A or where other vehicle 111 can stop. Position P1 is the position of other vehicle 111 before it reaches position P2. If position P1 is defined as a separation distance d1 from vehicle 10A and position P2 is defined as a separation distance d2 from vehicle 10A, then separation distance d1 is greater than separation distance d2.

[0040] By emitting light LA ​​and light LB from vehicle 10A in the directions of angles θ1 and θ2, respectively, first light LA ​​is emitted toward position P1 and second light LB is emitted toward position P2. This allows light LA ​​and light LB to be emitted toward the driver of another vehicle 111 that may be a following vehicle, making the driver of the other vehicle 111 aware of the presence of vehicle 10A. Furthermore, because light LA ​​and light LB are emitted from forward of steering handlebar 21a (see FIG. 1), light LA ​​and light LB are not blocked by a passenger positioned behind handlebar 21a, i.e., a passenger of vehicle 10A.

[0041] Moreover, in the example of Figure 9, the lights LA and LB can be perceived by the driver of the other vehicle 111 at different positions P1 and P2, so the lights LA and LB can be recognized by the driver of the other vehicle 111 at a time interval. This allows the lights LA and LB to be perceived by the driver of the other vehicle 111 as flashing lights, making it easier for the driver of the other vehicle 111 to recognize the vehicle 10A. In this configuration, as shown in Figure 3, a light emitting unit 53 that emits lights LA and LB is provided at a position near the front of the vehicle 10A. Because the vehicle 10A is a moving vehicle, there is usually no obstacle ahead, which is the vehicle's traveling destination. However, as shown in Figure 9, there may be an obstacle 200 to the side of the vehicle 10A. The obstacle 200 in Figure 9 is assumed to be another saddle-type vehicle located to the right of vehicle 10A, but obstacle 200 is not limited to a vehicle and could also be a fence or plant located to the left of vehicle 10A, and depending on the road and surrounding environment, an obstacle may exist to the right of vehicle 10A.

[0042] In this configuration, the light beams LA and LB are emitted from a position closer to the front of the vehicle 10A. Therefore, even if there are obstacles 200 on the left and right sides of the vehicle 10A, the light beams LA and LB are more easily irradiated without being blocked by the obstacles 200 on the sides of the vehicle 10A, as illustrated in FIG. 9 . Even if the obstacle 200 is located in a position that blocks the light beam LA, the light beams LB are emitted further forward than the light beams LA, making it easier to irradiate the light beams LB without being blocked by the obstacles 200. Furthermore, compared to when the light beams LA and LB are emitted from a position closer to the rear of the vehicle 10A, the light beams LA and LB can be emitted from a position closer to the other vehicle 111. In other words, due to the positional relationship between the position of the vehicle 10A (i.e., the vehicle 10A) and the obstacles 200 on the sides of the vehicle 10A, the light beams LA and LB are less likely to be blocked by the obstacles 200. As a result, even if an obstacle 200 is present, the lights LA and LB make it easier for the driver of the other vehicle 111 to become aware of the presence of the vehicle 10A.

[0043] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing vehicle 10B together with another vehicle 111 from above. As shown in FIG. 10, vehicle 10B emits light LA ​​and light LB in directions at angles θ3 and θ4, respectively, corresponding to the front and lateral directions of the vehicle. Angle θ3 is the direction in which first light LA ​​is emitted toward the driver of other vehicle 111 when other vehicle 111 is at position P1 on lane 101A. Furthermore, angle θ4 is the direction in which second light LB is emitted toward the driver of other vehicle 111 when other vehicle 111 is at position P2 on lane 101A. The other vehicle 111 is an oncoming vehicle of vehicle 10B. As shown in FIG. 10, position P2 corresponds to a position closer to vehicle 10A in the fore-and-aft direction than position P1.

[0044] Positions P1 and P2 are set based on simulations and experiments as suitable positions for other vehicle 111 to avoid contact with vehicle 10B. For example, positions P1 and P2 are set as positions where other vehicle 111 can avoid contact with vehicle 10B or where other vehicle 111 can stop. As in the case of FIG. 9 , position P1 is the position of other vehicle 111 before reaching position P2. If position P1 is defined as a separation distance d1 from vehicle 10B and position P2 is defined as a separation distance d2 from vehicle 10B, then separation distance d1 is greater than separation distance d2.

[0045] Therefore, by vehicle 10B emitting light LA ​​and light LB in the directions of angles θ3 and θ4, respectively, first light LA ​​is emitted toward position P1, and second light LB is emitted toward position P2. This allows light LA ​​and light LB to be emitted toward the driver of oncoming vehicle 111, making the driver of oncoming vehicle 111 aware of the presence of vehicle 10A. Furthermore, because light LA ​​and light LB are emitted from ahead of steering handlebar 21a (see FIG. 1), light LA ​​and light LB are not blocked by a passenger positioned behind handlebar 21a, i.e., a passenger of vehicle 10B.

[0046] 10 , the light LA ​​and LB can be perceived by the driver of the other vehicle 111 at different positions P1 and P2, so that the light LA ​​and LB can be recognized by the driver of the other vehicle 111 at a time interval. This allows the light LA ​​and LB to be perceived as flashing lights by the driver of the other vehicle 111, making the driver of the other vehicle 111 more aware of the presence of the vehicle 10A. Furthermore, in this configuration, as shown in FIG. 3 , the light emitting unit 53 that emits the light LA ​​and LB is provided at a position closer to the front of the vehicle 10B. Therefore, even if an obstacle 201 (e.g., a fence or a plant) that blocks the light is present to the side of the vehicle 10B, as shown in FIG. 10 , the light LA ​​and LB can be easily emitted without being blocked by the obstacle 201, and the light LA ​​and LB can be emitted from a position closer to the other vehicle 111. That is, due to the positional relationship between the position of the host vehicle 10B and the obstacle 201 present to the side of the host vehicle, the lights LA and LB are unlikely to be blocked by the obstacle 201. As a result, the lights LA and LB make it easier for the driver of the other vehicle 111 to be aware of the presence of the vehicle 10B.

[0047] 9 and 10 , the first light LA ​​is light that reaches the driver of another vehicle 111 that is relatively far away from the host vehicle 10A, 10B, and the second light LB is light that reaches the driver of another vehicle 111 that is relatively close. Therefore, the first light LA ​​can be described as "light that reaches a distance from the vehicle" and the second light LB can be described as "light that reaches the vicinity of the vehicle." Furthermore, the second light LB is also light that reaches closer to the center of the vehicle width of the vehicles 10A, 10B than the first light LA. Furthermore, if the position P1 shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 is described as a "first position," the position P2 can be described as a "second position that is closer to the vehicle longitudinal direction or vehicle width direction from the host vehicle 10, which is the saddle-ride type vehicle 10, than the first position."

[0048] Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a situation in which pedestrians M1 are present on the left and right sides in front of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 while it is traveling. It is assumed that the pedestrians M1 are facing the road 107 on which the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 is traveling. As shown in Fig. 11, the light emitting units 53 emit light LA ​​and LB toward the sides in front of the vehicle 1, which makes it possible to make pedestrians M1 present on the left and right sides in front of the vehicle 1 more aware of the presence of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10. Therefore, not only the occupants of other vehicles 111 but also pedestrians M1 around the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 can easily recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle 10.

[0049] FIG. 11 schematically shows the central visual field MC and peripheral visual field MS of a person (pedestrian M1). The central visual field MC is the range that can be seen without moving the eyes, and the peripheral visual field MS is the range of vision outside the central visual field MC. It is known that a human visual characteristic is that the central visual field MC allows the user to clearly distinguish the shapes of surrounding objects, but tends to react relatively slowly to the movement of those objects. It is also known that the peripheral visual field MS does not allow the user to clearly distinguish the shapes of surrounding objects, but tends to react relatively quickly to the movement of those objects. In this configuration, when the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 and pedestrian M1 are positioned as shown in FIG. 11 , the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 can irradiate light LA ​​and LB toward the peripheral visual field MS of the pedestrian M1. This is expected to have the effect of making it easier for the pedestrian M1 to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle 10.

[0050] As described above, the light unit 41 constituting the lighting device irradiates predetermined light LA, LB that has a higher brightness than the headlight light of the host vehicle at positions P1 and P2, which are predetermined positions spaced apart from the host vehicle, which is the saddle-ride type vehicle 10. The light LA, LB is emitted from a position forward of the center of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction. Because the light LA, LB has a higher brightness than the headlight light of the host vehicle at positions P1 and P2, which are spaced apart from the host vehicle, it is easy for others present at positions P1 and P2 to perceive the light LA, LB. Furthermore, because the light LA, LB is emitted from a position forward of the center of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction, the light LA, LB is less likely to be blocked by obstacles (obstacles 200 and 201 as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 ) due to the positional relationship between the host vehicle's position and obstacles present to the sides of the host vehicle. Therefore, the light LA, LB can be easily irradiated ahead of the obstacles. Furthermore, the light LA, LB can be easily irradiated ahead of the obstacles at positions P1 and P2, which are spaced apart from the host vehicle in the traveling direction. Therefore, even if there is an obstacle to the side of the vehicle, the lights LA and LB make it easier for others to recognize the saddle riding type vehicle 10.

[0051] The saddle-ride type vehicle 10 also has a steering handlebar 21a, and the light LA, LB is emitted from a position forward of the handlebar 21a. Because the light LA, LB is emitted from a position forward of the handlebar 21a, the light LA, LB is not blocked by a rider positioned behind the handlebar 21a, i.e., the rider of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10. Because the light LA, LB is not blocked by the rider, others present at positions P1, P2 can easily perceive the light LA, LB, making it easier for others to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle 10. Furthermore, because the light LA, LB is emitted from a position forward of the handlebar 21a, the light LA, LB is less likely to be blocked by obstacles present to the sides of the vehicle due to the positional relationship between the position of the host vehicle, which is the saddle-ride type vehicle 10, and obstacles present to the sides of the host vehicle. Therefore, the light LA, LB can be more easily irradiated ahead of the obstacle. Therefore, even if there is an obstacle to the side of the handlebar 21a, the lights LA and LB make it easier for others to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle 10.

[0052] Although the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 of this embodiment has a so-called frame-mounted structure in which the light unit 41 is supported on the body frame 11, the light unit 41 may also have a so-called handle-mounted structure in which the light unit 41 is supported on a steering system such as the front fork 14 so that the direction of the light unit 41 changes left and right in response to steering of the handlebars 21. In the case of a handle-mounted structure, the direction of the light LA, LB changes in accordance with the movement and steering angle of the handlebars 21, which is expected to have the effect of irradiating the light LA, LB in a direction that is more easily noticed by others.

[0053] Furthermore, by combining a configuration in which light LA, LB is emitted from further forward than the steering handlebar 21a and the body frame 11 with the handle mount structure of the light unit 41, it is possible to increase the possibility of emitting light LA, LB in a direction that is not blocked by obstacles, while also enabling light LA, LB to be emitted from a position closer to others, which is expected to make it easier for others to recognize the vehicle 10A.

[0054] 2, the light unit 41 includes a plurality of light sources 51a, 52a, and 53a arranged offset in the fore-and-aft direction of the vehicle, and a first reflector 53b and a second reflector 53c that reflect light from any of the light sources 51a, 52a, and 53a to produce the above-mentioned light beams LA and LB. These reflectors 53b and 53c are arranged forward of the light sources 51a, 52a, and 53a. Because the first reflector 53b and the second reflector 53c are arranged forward of the plurality of light sources 51a, 52a, and 53a of the light unit 41, the light beams LA and LB can be emitted from further forward than the light sources 51a, 52a, and 53a. As a result, the light beams LA and LB are less likely to be blocked by obstacles due to the positional relationship between the position of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 and obstacles present to the sides of the vehicle. Therefore, even if an obstacle exists to the side of the light sources 51a, 52a, 53a, the light LA, LB can be easily irradiated in front of the obstacle, and the light LA, LB makes it easier for others to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle 10.

[0055] 7, the light unit 41 has left and right headlight light sources, each consisting of a low-beam light source 51a and a high-beam light source 52a. The front surface of the light unit 41 has an inclined shape that narrows in the vehicle width direction as it approaches the front of the vehicle, and the reflectors 53b, 53c are disposed forward of the headlight light sources and between the left and right headlight light sources. The front surface of the light unit 41 has an inclined shape that narrows in the vehicle width direction as it approaches the front of the vehicle, and the reflectors 53b, 53c are disposed forward of the left and right headlight light sources. Therefore, the reflectors 53b, 53c can emit the light LA, LB from further forward than the headlight light emitting portions 41L, 41R. Due to the positional relationship between the position of the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 and obstacles present to the sides of the vehicle, the light LA, LB is less likely to be blocked by the obstacles. Therefore, even if there is an obstacle to the side of the headlight light source, the lights LA and LB can be easily irradiated in front of the obstacle, and the lights LA and LB make it easier for others to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle 10. Furthermore, by utilizing the space between the left and right headlight light sources, the reflectors 53b and 53c can be disposed in front of the headlight light sources.

[0056] [Another Embodiment] A saddle-ride type vehicle 10 according to another embodiment has the same configuration as the above embodiment, except for a cover 45 that covers the space between the left and right headlight light irradiators 41L, 41R from the front. Differences from the above embodiment will be described below. The same components as those in the above embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a pair of left and right light irradiators 53 together with the surrounding configuration, as viewed from above the vehicle. As shown in FIG. 12 , a cover 45 covers the space between the left and right headlight light irradiators 41L, 41R from the front. This cover 45 may be part of the front cover 42 that covers the front surface of the housing 43, or may be a cover separate from the front cover 42. The saddle-type vehicle 10 is configured to have a pair of left and right light irradiation units 53 between the pair of left and right headlight light irradiation units 41L, 41R, and more specifically, to have a plurality of reflectors 53b, 53c between the pair of left and right headlight light irradiation units 41L, 41R, so that the cover 45 makes it difficult to see each of the reflectors 53b, 53c from the front of the vehicle, etc.

[0057] This cover 45 can be said to be a cover that covers a part of the light unit 41 made up of a lighting device, and a cover that covers the space between the so-called twin-lens type headlight light irradiators 41L, 41R having a pair of left and right headlight light irradiators 41L, 41R. At least a part of this cover 45 is located forward of the reflectors 53b, 53c and overlaps with the reflectors 53b, 53c when viewed from the front of the vehicle, making the reflectors 53b, 53c difficult to see from outside the vehicle, which is advantageous for improving the appearance.

[0058] As described above, the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 according to another embodiment has the cover 45 that covers a portion of the light unit 41, and the portion of the cover 45 is located forward of the reflectors 53b, 53c and overlaps with the reflectors 53b, 53c in a front view of the vehicle. This makes it possible to make the reflectors 53b, 53c less visible from outside the vehicle using the cover 45, which is advantageous for improving the appearance. Note that the cover 45 may be an extension provided on the light unit 41.

[0059] The above-described embodiments are merely examples of aspects of the present invention, and any modifications and applications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to a so-called twin-lens type saddle-ride vehicle 10 having a pair of left and right headlight light irradiators 41L, 41R, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention may be applied to a so-called single-lens type saddle-ride vehicle having a single headlight light irradiator.

[0060] FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically illustrating a headlight light irradiation unit 41M of a single-lens type saddle-ride vehicle, along with the surrounding configuration, as viewed from the front of the vehicle. In the example of FIG. 13 , light irradiation units 53 including reflectors 53b, 53c are disposed on the left and right sides of the headlight light irradiation unit 41M, respectively, and light LA, LB is emitted from the areas of the light irradiation units 53. Furthermore, a pair of left and right covers 45 that cover a portion of the light unit 41 are disposed on the left and right sides of the headlight light irradiation unit 41M. In this case, the pair of left and right light irradiation units 53 are disposed behind the pair of left and right covers 45 and in positions that overlap with each cover 45 in a side view of the vehicle. As a result, the pair of left and right covers 45 make the reflectors 53b, 53c difficult to see from outside the vehicle, which is advantageous for improving the appearance.

[0061] The position of the light emitting unit 53 may be changed as appropriate, and may be provided, for example, outside the light unit 41. However, from the viewpoint of avoiding obstruction by obstacles on the side, the position of the light emitting unit 53 is preferably within a range where the light LA, LB can be emitted from forward of the center between the front and rear of the vehicle, and from the viewpoint of avoiding obstruction by the occupant and obstacles on the side, it is preferable that the position be forward of the handlebar 21 a and the body frame 11.

[0062] The number of first light sources 53a for the lights LA and LB is not limited to one, and may be multiple. Although the first light source 53a is a dedicated light source for the lights LA and LB in the above description, the present invention is not limited to this, and any of the light sources provided in the saddle-ride type vehicle 10 may also serve as the first light source 53a. The shape, position, number, etc. of each part of the light unit 41, including the reflectors 53b and 53c, may be changed as appropriate.

[0063] Furthermore, the direction of irradiation of the light LA, LB is not limited to the lateral front of the vehicle, and may be any direction that is suitable for occupants of other vehicles and pedestrians to recognize the vehicle 10. Furthermore, although the case where the light irradiating unit 53 irradiates two light beams LA, LB to the lateral front of the vehicle has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is sufficient to irradiate one or more light beams.

[0064] Furthermore, the saddle-ride type vehicle to which the present invention can be applied is not limited to motorcycles, but the present invention may be applied to various saddle-ride type vehicles such as three-wheeled and four-wheeled types.

[0065] [Configurations Supported by the Above-described Embodiments] The above-described embodiments support the following configurations.

[0066] (Configuration 1) A saddle-ride type vehicle having a lighting device that emits a predetermined light that is brighter than the headlight light of the vehicle at a predetermined position away from the vehicle, and the predetermined light is emitted from a position forward of the center of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction. Because the predetermined light is emitted from a position forward of the center of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction, the predetermined light is more easily noticeable by others at the predetermined position. Furthermore, because the predetermined light is emitted from a position forward of the center of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction, the predetermined light is less likely to be blocked by obstacles due to the positional relationship between the position of the saddle-ride type vehicle itself and obstacles to the side of the vehicle. Therefore, the predetermined light can be more easily emitted in front of the obstacle. Therefore, even if there is an obstacle to the side of the vehicle, the predetermined light makes it easier for others to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle.

[0067] (Configuration 2) The saddle-ride type vehicle according to Configuration 1, wherein the saddle-ride type vehicle has a steering handlebar, and the predetermined light is emitted from a position forward of the handlebar. Because the predetermined light is emitted from a position forward of the handlebar, the predetermined light is not blocked by a rider positioned behind the handlebar, i.e., the rider of the saddle-ride type vehicle. Because the predetermined light is not blocked by the rider, the predetermined light is more easily perceived by others in a predetermined position, making it easier for others to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle. Furthermore, because the predetermined light is emitted from a position forward of the handlebar, the predetermined light is less likely to be blocked by obstacles due to the positional relationship between the position of the saddle-ride type vehicle itself and obstacles to the side of the vehicle. Therefore, the predetermined light is more easily irradiated in front of the obstacle. Therefore, even if there is an obstacle to the side of the handlebar, the predetermined light makes it easier for others to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle.

[0068] (Configuration 3) The saddle-ride type vehicle according to Configuration 1 or 2, wherein the lighting device includes a plurality of light sources arranged offset in the fore-and-aft direction of the vehicle, and a reflector that reflects light from any of the plurality of light sources so as to produce the predetermined light, and the reflector is arranged forward of the plurality of light sources. Because the reflector is arranged forward of the plurality of light sources of the lighting device, the predetermined light can be emitted from further forward than the plurality of light sources. This makes it difficult for the predetermined light to be blocked by obstacles due to the positional relationship between the position of the vehicle, which is a saddle-ride type vehicle, and an obstacle present to the side of the vehicle. Therefore, even if an obstacle is present to the side of the plurality of light sources, the predetermined light can be easily irradiated in front of the obstacle, making it easier for others to recognize the saddle-ride type vehicle.

[0069] (Configuration 4) The saddle-ride type vehicle according to Configuration 3, further comprising a cover that covers a portion of the lamp, the portion of the cover being located forward of the reflector and overlapping with the reflector in a front view of the vehicle. Since the portion of the cover that covers a portion of the lamp is located forward of the reflector and overlaps with the reflector in a front view of the vehicle, the cover can be used to make the reflector less visible from outside the vehicle, which is advantageous for improving the appearance.

[0070] (Configuration 5) The saddle-riding vehicle according to Configuration 3 or 4, wherein the lamp has left and right headlight light sources, the front surface of the lamp having an inclined shape that narrows in the vehicle width direction as it approaches the front of the vehicle, and the reflector is disposed forward of the headlight light sources and between the left and right headlight light sources. Because the front surface of the lamp has an inclined shape that narrows in the vehicle width direction as it approaches the front of the vehicle, and the reflector is disposed forward of the left and right headlight light sources and between the left and right headlight light sources, the reflector can emit a predetermined light from forward of the left and right headlight light sources. Due to the positional relationship between the position of the saddle-riding vehicle itself and obstacles present to the sides of the vehicle, the predetermined light is unlikely to be blocked by the obstacle. Therefore, even if an obstacle is present to the side of the headlight light sources, the predetermined light can be easily irradiated in front of the obstacle, making it easier for others to recognize the saddle-riding vehicle. Furthermore, the reflector can be disposed forward of the headlight light sources by utilizing the space between the left and right headlight light sources.

[0071] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 saddle-ride type vehicle 10A, 10B vehicle (saddle-ride type vehicle) 11 vehicle body frame 21 handle 21a handlebar 41 light unit (lighting device) 41L, 41R headlight light emitting section 45 cover 51 low beam emitting section 51a low beam light source (headlight light source) 52 high beam emitting section 52a high beam light source (headlight light source) 53 light emitting section 53a first light source 53b first reflector 53c second reflector 111 other vehicle 200, 201 obstacle LA, LB light (predetermined light) LC vehicle width center P1 position (first position) P2 position (second position)

Claims

1. In a straddle-type vehicle having a lighting device (41), the lighting device (41) irradiates predetermined light having a higher luminance than the headlight light of the vehicle at a predetermined position spaced apart from the vehicle, the predetermined light is emitted from a position in front of the center in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the lighting device (41) includes a plurality of light sources (51a, 52a, 53a) arranged offset in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and a reflector (53b, 53c) that reflects light from any one of the plurality of light sources (51a, 52a, 53a) to become the predetermined light, the plurality of light sources (51a, 52a, 53a) include left and right headlight light sources (51a, 52a), the front surface of the lighting device (41) has an inclined shape that becomes narrower in the vehicle width direction as it goes forward in the vehicle front direction, the reflector (53b, 53c) is arranged in front of the plurality of light sources (51a, 52a, 53a) including the headlight light sources (51a, 52a) and between the left and right headlight light sources (51a, 52a), a straddle-type vehicle.

2. The straddle-type vehicle has a handlebar (21a) for steering, the predetermined light is emitted from a position in front of the handlebar (21a), The straddle-type vehicle according to Claim 1.

3. having a cover (45) that covers a part of the lighting device (41), a part of the cover (45) is located in front of the reflector (53b, 53c) and overlaps the reflector (53b, 53c) when viewed from the front of the vehicle, The straddle-type vehicle according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. (Deleted)

5. (Deleted)