Vehicle interior illumination system

Abstract

A vehicle interior illumination system (1) is provided with an illumination device (3) that emits light that illuminates a ceiling (10) in a cabin (2a). The illumination device (3) has a light emission surface (3a) which serves as an outer surface of the illumination device (3) and from which light is emitted. The light emission surface (3a) is not visible to an occupant seated in a seat (60) inside the cabin (2a).

Description

Vehicle interior lighting system

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior lighting system.

[0002] In recent years, the interior of a vehicle such as an automobile is expected to be an environment that passengers can feel comfortable in. In particular, in the future, automated driving technology will enable passengers, including the driver, to engage in various activities unrelated to driving while the vehicle is in motion, so the interior of the vehicle will need to be a living space that is easier to use and more comfortable.

[0003] Therefore, a technology has been proposed in the past to create a space within a vehicle cabin by installing a lighting device in the cabin and changing the brightness and color of the illumination light emitted from the lighting device (Patent Document 1).

[0004] JP 2024-18953 A JP 2023-180240 A

[0005] However, if a lighting device is turned on inside the vehicle while driving, direct light from the lighting device may enter the driver's eyes, making it difficult for the driver to drive safely.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and its first object is to provide an interior lighting system that can create a space inside the vehicle while maintaining a safe driving environment.

[0007] In recent years, there has been a demand for creating a high-quality interior space in a vehicle, for example, by using an interior lighting device to create an interior space that gives the occupants a rich and uplifting feeling.

[0008] A second object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle interior lighting system that can create a high-quality interior space.

[0009] Furthermore, if a lighting device is turned on inside the vehicle while driving, direct light from the lighting device may enter the driver's eyes, making it difficult to drive safely. Furthermore, in recent years, there has been a demand for creating a high-quality interior space inside the vehicle.

[0010] A third object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle interior lighting system that can create a high-quality interior space while maintaining a safe driving environment.

[0011] Furthermore, a display having display and operation functions for various systems such as a car navigation system or an audio system is installed in the front portion of the interior of the automobile (Patent Document 2). For example, the display in the interior of the automobile is embedded in the center of the dashboard or is installed upright on the dashboard.

[0012] However, vehicle occupants view the display in a dark environment inside the vehicle. Therefore, the difference in brightness between the display's display area (display luminance) and the brightness inside the vehicle (surrounding environment luminance) can cause eye fatigue for occupants viewing the display. This difference in brightness is particularly large at night, causing increased eye fatigue. Furthermore, eye fatigue for drivers can lead to the risk of being unable to drive a vehicle safely.

[0013] A fourth object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle interior lighting system that can alleviate eye strain caused by occupants looking at a display inside the vehicle.

[0014] In order to achieve the first object, one aspect of the first vehicle interior lighting system according to the present invention comprises a lighting device that is installed in a vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate a ceiling of the vehicle interior, the lighting device having a light exit surface as an outer surface of the lighting device from which the light exits, and the light exit surface is not visible to an occupant sitting in a seat in the vehicle interior.

[0015] In addition, in order to achieve the first object, another aspect of the first vehicle interior lighting system according to the present invention includes a lighting device that is installed in a vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate a ceiling of the vehicle interior, wherein Wa is the distance along the ceiling from the position of the lighting device to a position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device and the luminance of the light-irradiated area on the ceiling, is 50% of the maximum luminance, and Wx is the width of the vehicle interior, and Wa / Wx≧2.5%.

[0016] In addition, in order to achieve the second object, one aspect of the second vehicle interior lighting system according to the present invention includes a lighting device that is installed in the vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate a center console in the vehicle interior, and the lighting device emits the light sideways.

[0017] In addition, in order to achieve the third object, one aspect of the third vehicle interior lighting system according to the present invention comprises a lighting device that is installed in the vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate the floor of the vehicle interior, and when the vehicle is viewed from above, the lighting device emits light so as to outline at least a portion of the contour of the seat portion of a seat in the vehicle interior.

[0018] In addition, in order to achieve the above-mentioned fourth object, one aspect of a fourth vehicle interior lighting system according to the present invention comprises a display installed in the vehicle interior and having a display unit, and a lighting device installed in the vehicle interior, wherein the lighting device emits light to illuminate a peripheral area located outside the display unit.

[0019] According to one aspect of the first vehicle interior lighting system of the present invention and another aspect of the first vehicle interior lighting system of the present invention, it is possible to create a space inside the vehicle interior while maintaining a safe driving environment.

[0020] According to one aspect of the second vehicle interior lighting system of the present invention, it is possible to create a high-quality atmosphere in the vehicle interior.

[0021] According to one aspect of the third vehicle interior lighting system of the present invention, it is possible to create a high-quality interior space in the vehicle while maintaining a safe driving environment.

[0022] According to one aspect of the fourth vehicle interior lighting system of the present invention, it is possible to alleviate eye strain of occupants caused by looking at a display inside the vehicle.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a top view of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a B-pillar of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view in the front-rear direction of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to a first variation of the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view in the width direction of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to a first variation of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view in the width direction of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to a second variation of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view in the width direction of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to a third variation of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view in the width direction of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to a fourth variation of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a top view of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a vehicle around a center console of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating opening and closing a console box of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to the second embodiment. Fig. 13 is a diagram of the periphery of a console box provided in the center console of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to embodiment 2. Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing the periphery of the console box when the lighting device according to embodiment 2 is turned on. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the periphery of the console box when the lighting device according to embodiment 2 is turned on. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of the periphery of the center console of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to variation 1 of embodiment 2. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing the configuration of the periphery of the center console of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to variation 2 of embodiment 2. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing the configuration of the periphery of the center console of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to variation 3 of embodiment 2. Fig. 19 is a top view of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to embodiment 3. Fig. 20 is a side cross-sectional view of a vehicle in an interior lighting system according to embodiment 3.FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the atmosphere inside a vehicle cabin when a plurality of lighting devices are turned on in a vehicle in the vehicle interior lighting system according to embodiment 3. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a state in which an occupant is seated in a rear seat of the vehicle in the vehicle interior lighting system according to embodiment 3. FIG. 23 is a side cross-sectional view of a vehicle in the vehicle interior lighting system according to a modified example of embodiment 3. FIG. 24 is a top view of a vehicle in the vehicle interior lighting system according to embodiment 4. FIG. 25 is a side cross-sectional view of a vehicle in the vehicle interior lighting system according to embodiment 4. FIG. 26 is a side cross-sectional view showing the structure of the periphery of the dashboard of a vehicle in the vehicle interior lighting system according to embodiment 4. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the state when lighting devices are turned on in the vehicle interior lighting system according to embodiment 4. FIG. 28 is a side cross-sectional view showing the structure of the periphery of the dashboard of a vehicle in the vehicle interior lighting system according to modified example 1 of embodiment 4. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing the state when lighting devices are turned on in the vehicle interior lighting system according to modified example 2 of embodiment 4.

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that each of the embodiments described below represents a specific example of the present invention. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, etc. shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Therefore, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not described in the independent claims that represent the highest concept of the present invention will be described as optional components.

[0025] The drawings are schematic diagrams and are not necessarily drawn to scale. Therefore, the scales of the drawings are not necessarily the same. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate substantially the same components, and redundant explanations will be omitted or simplified.

[0026] In this specification, "forward" refers to the direction of travel when the vehicle is moving forward, "rearward" refers to the direction of travel when the vehicle is moving backward, the direction to the right (right side) when the vehicle is moving forward is the "right direction," the direction to the left (left direction) when the vehicle is moving forward is the "left direction," the ceiling side of the vehicle is the "above" or "upper side," and the floor side of the vehicle is the "below" or "lower side." Note that in this specification, the terms "above" and "below" do not refer to the upward direction (vertically upward) and downward direction (vertically downward) in absolute spatial recognition, but are sometimes used as terms defined by relative positional relationships.

[0027] (Embodiment 1) A vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 1 is a top view of a vehicle 2 in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to embodiment 1, Figure 2 is a side view of the vehicle 2, and Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a B-pillar 32 of the vehicle 2.

[0028] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the vehicle interior lighting system 1 includes a vehicle 2 and a lighting device 3 installed in the vehicle 2.

[0029] The automobile 2 is an example of a moving body and includes a vehicle having a passenger compartment 2a. The passenger compartment 2a of the automobile 2 is configured with a plurality of interior lining members. The passenger compartment 2a has a ceiling 10, a floor 20, pillar trims 30, and door trims 40 as the plurality of interior lining members.

[0030] The automobile 2 has a front door 51 and a rear door 52. Passengers can enter or exit the vehicle interior 2 a by opening or closing the front door 51 or the rear door 52. Each of the front door 51 and the rear door 52 is provided with a window glass.

[0031] The vehicle interior 2a is provided with seats 60 for occupants. Specifically, the vehicle interior 2a is provided with the plurality of seats 60, including a front seat 61 and a rear seat 62. The front seat 61 is a front seat located at the front of the vehicle interior 2a and includes a driver's seat 61a where the driver sits and a passenger seat 61b located next to the driver's seat 61a. In this embodiment, since the steering wheel is located on the right side, the driver's seat 61a is located on the right side and the passenger seat 61b is located on the left side. The rear seat 62 is a rear seat located at the rear of the vehicle interior 2a. The rear seat 62 can accommodate two or three passengers. Each seat portion of the plurality of seats 60 has a front end located on the vehicle front side and a pair of side ends located in the vehicle width direction.

[0032] The ceiling 10 is a roof trim. Specifically, the ceiling 10 is a headlining. The ceiling 10 is fixed to the roof 2b of the automobile 2. In this case, the ceiling 10 may be directly attached to the inner surface of the roof 2b, or may be suspended from the roof 2b.

[0033] The floor 20 is a floor trim. Specifically, the floor 20 is a floor carpet fixed to a frame that constitutes the body framework of the automobile (vehicle) 2. Although not shown, a floor mat is laid on the floor 20.

[0034] The pillar trim 30 is made up of multiple pillars. Specifically, the pillar trim 30 has an A-pillar 31, which is a front pillar provided next to the windshield, and a B-pillar 32, which is a central pillar provided between the front seat 61 and the rear seat 62. The pillar trim 30 may further have a C-pillar and a D-pillar provided diagonally behind the rear seat 62.

[0035] The door trim 40 is a lining member that covers the door panels of the front door 51 and the rear door 52. The door trim 40, which forms the inner surface of the front door 51 and the rear door 52, is fabricated with a concave-convex portion (concave-convex structure). One or more functional parts are provided in the concave-convex portion of the door trim 40. Specifically, the functional parts provided in the concave-convex portion of the door trim 40 include an armrest, an operation switch (operation button), a cup holder, a door handle, and a storage space. The operation switch is, for example, an opening / closing switch for opening and closing the window glass. Note that the front door 51 of the driver's seat 61a is provided with various switches other than the opening / closing switch as operation buttons.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the lighting device 3 is an interior lighting device installed in the vehicle interior 2a. In this embodiment, the lighting device 3 is installed on a pillar trim 30 in the vehicle interior 2a. Specifically, the lighting device 3 is installed on a B-pillar 32. In this case, the lighting device 3 is preferably installed around the ceiling 10 on the B-pillar 32. In other words, the lighting device 3 is preferably installed in an upper portion of the B-pillar 32. The lighting device 3 is installed on each of a pair of opposing B-pillars 32.

[0037] The lighting device 3 is a lighting fixture having a light source (not shown) and emits illumination light. The light source used in the lighting device 3 is, for example, an LED light source configured with light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Therefore, the lighting device 3 is an LED lighting device. The LED light source includes, for example, a mounting substrate such as a PCB board and one or more LED elements mounted on the mounting substrate. For example, the lighting device 3 has a housing that houses the LED light source, and light emitted from the LED light source passes through an opening in the housing and is irradiated onto a predetermined illumination area as the illumination light of the lighting device 3. The illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3 (LED light source) is white light, but is not limited to this. In addition, the lighting device 3 may have a function to control dimming and color adjustment of the illumination light. This allows the brightness and color temperature of the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3 to be changed, thereby creating a spatial effect within the vehicle interior 2a.

[0038] The lighting device 3 is turned on when the driver is driving the automobile 2 (during driving). In other words, illumination light is emitted from the lighting device 3 while driving. The lighting device 3 may not only be turned on while driving, but may also be turned on at times other than when driving. For example, the lighting device 3 may also be turned on when an occupant gets into the automobile 2 or when an occupant gets out of the automobile 2. The lighting device 3 may also be turned on during the daytime, but not only at night. Turning on the lighting device 3 during the daytime can create an open illuminated space.

[0039] The lighting device 3 has a light exit surface 3a from which light exits. The light exit surface 3a is an exposed outer surface of the lighting device 3. For example, the light exit surface 3a is the outer surface of a translucent panel provided in an opening of a housing that houses a light source. The translucent panel is a transparent panel or a diffusion panel. Note that the light exit surface 3a is not limited to the outer surface of a translucent panel, but may also be the outer surface of a lens. Furthermore, the light exit surface 3a is not limited to the outer surface of an optical member such as a translucent panel or a lens, but may also be a space such as an opening of a housing.

[0040] The illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3 serves as light that illuminates the space within the vehicle interior 2a. The lighting device 3 is an indirect light that indirectly illuminates the space within the vehicle interior 2a. Therefore, the illumination light from the lighting device 3 is not emitted directly into the vehicle interior 2a, but is first reflected somewhere and then emitted into the vehicle interior 2a.

[0041] 3, the lighting device 3 in this embodiment emits light that illuminates the ceiling 10 inside the vehicle interior 2a. That is, direct light from the lighting device 3 is emitted onto the ceiling 10. Therefore, the vehicle interior 2a is not illuminated with direct light from the lighting device 3, but rather with indirect light that is emitted from the lighting device 3 and reflected by the ceiling 10.

[0042] The lighting device 3 is installed on the B-pillar 32 with its light emitting surface 3a facing the ceiling 10. In this embodiment, the lighting device 3 is installed so that its light emitting surface 3a faces the curved surface 11 at the end of the ceiling 10 in the width direction, and the lighting device 3 emits light toward the curved surface 11 of the ceiling 10. Therefore, the illumination light from the lighting device 3 is reflected by the curved surface 11 of the ceiling 10 and is irradiated into the vehicle interior 2a as indirect light.

[0043] 1 and 2, the illumination light (indirect light) from the lighting device 3 does not illuminate the entire space within the vehicle interior 2a, but illuminates a portion of the space within the vehicle interior 2a. In Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the area indicated by dotted hatching is the area within the vehicle interior 2a that is illuminated by the illumination light (indirect light) from the lighting device 3.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 3 , if Wa is the distance along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3 to a position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3 and the luminance of the area (illumination surface) of the ceiling 10 illuminated by the lighting device 3, is 50% of the maximum luminance, and Wx (see FIG. 1 ) is the width of the vehicle interior 2a, the relationship Wa / Wx ≧ 2.5% is preferably satisfied. Preferably, Wa / Wx ≧ 4%. Also, Wa / Wx ≦ 22% is preferably satisfied. In this case, if Wb is the distance (width) along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3 to a position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3 and the luminance of the area (illumination surface) of the ceiling 10 illuminated by the lighting device 3, is 10% of the maximum luminance, it is further preferred that 100 ≦ Wb / Wa ≦ 1000 is satisfied. More preferably, 200 ≦ Wb / Wa ≦ 300 is satisfied. Wx, Wa, and Wb are, for example, 1000 mm≦Wx≦2000 mm, 50 mm≦Wa≦220 mm, and 100 mm≦Wb≦500 mm. Note that the luminance at Wa and Wb is a value in the daytime inside the vehicle interior 2a.

[0045] The light exit surface 3 a of the lighting device 3 is not visible to an occupant sitting in a seat 60 in the vehicle interior 2 a. In other words, the light exit surface 3 a of the lighting device 3 is not visible to the occupant sitting in the seat 60. In this embodiment, a light-shielding cover 4 is provided to cover the lighting device 3, and at least a portion of the light-shielding cover 4 is positioned between the occupant sitting in the seat 60 and the lighting device 3. This makes the light exit surface 3 a of the lighting device 3 not visible to the occupant sitting in the seat 60. In this embodiment, the lighting device 3 is installed in an upper portion of the B-pillar 32, and therefore the light exit surface 3 a of the lighting device 3 is positioned above the eyes of the occupant sitting in the seat 60.

[0046] The light-shielding cover 4 is provided on the B-pillar 32. The light-shielding cover 4 covers the bottom surface and side peripheral surfaces of the lighting device 3, but does not cover the light-emitting surface 3 a of the lighting device 3. Light emitted from the light-emitting surface 3 a of the lighting device 3 is emitted from the opening of the light-shielding cover 4 toward the ceiling 10.

[0047] The light-shielding cover 4 is made of, for example, a black or dark light-shielding material, but is not limited to this. The color of the light-shielding cover 4 is preferably the same color as the B-pillar 32. This makes it possible to reduce the presence of the light-shielding cover 4 even if it protrudes from the B-pillar 32.

[0048] As described above, the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment includes a lighting device 3 that emits light to illuminate the ceiling 10 inside the vehicle interior 2a, and the lighting device 3 has a light exit surface 3a from which light is emitted as the outer surface of the lighting device 3, and the light exit surface 3a is not visible to an occupant sitting in a seat 60 inside the vehicle interior 2a.

[0049] As described above, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment, light from the lighting device 3 is not directly emitted toward the vehicle interior 2a, but rather illuminates the ceiling 10 within the vehicle interior 2a. As a result, the light from the lighting device 3 is reflected by the ceiling 10 and emitted as indirect light toward the vehicle interior 2a. This allows the indirect light to create a sense of space within the vehicle interior 2a. Furthermore, illuminating the ceiling 10 with indirect light can highlight the shapes on the ceiling 10, thereby creating a sense of quality. Furthermore, illuminating the ceiling 10 with the light from the lighting device 3 can reduce reflections of light on the windshield, providing a safe and comfortable illuminated space.

[0050] Furthermore, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment, the light exit surface 3 a of the lighting device 3 is configured so as not to be visible to the occupants, so that direct light from the lighting device 3 does not enter the eyes of the driver, allowing the driver to drive the automobile 2 even more safely.

[0051] As described above, the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment can maintain a safe driving environment and create a pleasant interior space for the vehicle interior 2a even when the lighting device 3 is turned on during driving. In other words, a safe and comfortable illuminated space can be realized.

[0052] In addition, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment, the lighting device 3 is installed on the pillar trim 30, and the lighting device 3 irradiates light onto the curved surface 11 at the widthwise end of the ceiling 10.

[0053] In this way, the light from the lighting device 3 is irradiated onto the curved surface 11 at the end of the width direction of the ceiling 10, and the light is reflected by the curved surface 11 and irradiated toward the interior of the vehicle compartment 2a. This allows the light to be irradiated over a wider spatial area within the vehicle compartment 2a, thereby creating an illuminated space that feels bright and open.

[0054] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment, the lighting device 3 is installed on the B-pillar 32 of the pillar trim 30 .

[0055] This configuration can illuminate the central portion of the ceiling 10 in the longitudinal direction of the automobile 2. In other words, the central portion of the longitudinal direction of the passenger compartment 2a can be brightened around the edge of the ceiling 10. This allows for an illuminated space with a more open feel.

[0056] In addition, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment, the light emitting surface 3a of the lighting device 3 is located above the eye position of an occupant sitting in the seat 60 in the vehicle interior 2a.

[0057] This configuration allows for a glare-free, more open-feeling illuminated space.

[0058] Furthermore, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3 , when Wa is the distance along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3 to the position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3 and the luminance of the area (illuminated surface) illuminated by the illumination light of the lighting device 3 on the ceiling 10, is 50% of the maximum luminance, and Wx is the width of the vehicle interior 2a, the relationship Wa / Wx≧2.5% is satisfied.

[0059] If Wa / Wx<2.5%, the light (indirect light) from the lighting device 3 irradiated onto the ceiling 10 cannot provide a sense of brightness and openness. In contrast, by making Wa≧Wx×2.5%, the illuminated area can be expanded in the vehicle width direction of the automobile 2, thereby providing a sense of brightness and openness. In particular, by expanding the illuminated area in the vehicle width direction, an illuminated space that provides a sense of brightness and openness can be provided to the passengers seated in the rear seat 62.

[0060] In this case, if Wb is the distance (width) along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3 to the position where the brightness, including the brightness of the lighting device 3 and the brightness of the illumination area (illumination surface) of the lighting light from the lighting device 3 on the ceiling 10, is 10% of the maximum brightness, it is further preferable that 100≦Wb / Wa≦1000.

[0061] This configuration can expand the area of ​​the ceiling 10 that appears bright in the vehicle width direction, providing a greater sense of brightness and openness. Furthermore, by setting the ratio Wb / Wa to 200≦Wb / Wa≦300, a greater sense of brightness and openness can be provided.

[0062] (Variation 1 of Embodiment 1) Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1X according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 are cross-sectional views of the vehicle 2 in the vehicle interior lighting system 1X according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 1. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle 2 in the front-rear direction, and Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle 2 in the width direction.

[0063] The vehicle interior lighting system 1X of this modified example differs from the vehicle interior lighting system 1 of the first embodiment in the installation position of the lighting device 3X. Specifically, in the above embodiment, the lighting device 3 is installed on the pillar trim 30, but in this modified example, the lighting device 3X is installed on the ceiling 10 inside the vehicle compartment 2a. More specifically, the lighting device 3X is installed on the ceiling 10 behind the rear seat 62. Furthermore, the lighting device 3X emits illumination light from the rear of the ceiling 10 in a forward and upward direction.

[0064] In this modification, the lighting device 3X also provides indirect lighting and irradiates illumination light toward the ceiling 10, as in the first embodiment. That is, indirect light obtained by irradiating the lighting device 3X and reflecting it off the ceiling 10 is irradiated into the vehicle interior 2a. Therefore, the indirect light can create a spatial atmosphere within the vehicle interior 2a, and reflection of light on the windshield can be reduced, resulting in a safe and comfortable illuminated space. Furthermore, as in the first embodiment, the light-emitting surface 3a of the lighting device 3X is not visible to the occupants, so direct light from the lighting device 3X does not enter the driver's eyes. Therefore, in this modification, as in the first embodiment, even if the lighting device 3X is turned on during driving, a safe driving environment can be maintained and a spatial atmosphere within the vehicle interior 2a can be created.

[0065] Furthermore, in this modification, as described above, the lighting device 3X emits illumination light from the rear of the ceiling 10 toward the front and upward. This prevents the light from the lighting device 3X from entering the eyes of an occupant sitting in the seat 60 facing forward, thereby providing a comfortable illuminated space. Furthermore, emitting light from the rear of the vehicle toward the front of the vehicle can potentially impair visibility in the rearview mirror (room mirror). However, since digital rearview mirrors have been certified as compliant with regulations, the use of a digital rearview mirror can prevent this deterioration in visibility even when emitting light from the rear of the vehicle toward the front of the vehicle, as in this modification. However, because the lighting device 3X in this modification provides indirect lighting, there is little possibility that visibility will be impaired, even with an existing rearview mirror that is not a digital rearview mirror.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 5 , the vehicle interior lighting system 1X of this modification also differs from the vehicle interior lighting system 1 of the first embodiment in the structure of the lighting device 3X. Specifically, the lighting device 3X of this modification is a line light extending in the width direction of the ceiling 10. This allows for an illuminated space with an expanded illumination area in the vehicle width direction and an illuminated space with a large width in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) from the rear to the front. Therefore, light can be irradiated onto the ceiling 10 over a wider illumination area, resulting in a brighter, more spacious illuminated space. In particular, irradiating the ceiling 10 with illumination light can create a gradation in the illuminance on the ceiling 10 (illuminated surface), thereby changing the sense of perspective (direction, sense of distance). This creates a sense of greater spaciousness, resulting in an illuminated space with a more spacious feel.

[0067] In this modification, the lighting device 3X, which is a line light, has a light source (not shown) and a light guide rod 3b into which light emitted from the light source enters. The light guide rod 3b has a side peripheral surface from which light guided through the light guide rod 3b exits to the outside. The side peripheral surface of the light guide rod 3b is the light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3X. In other words, the light exit surface 3a, which is the side peripheral surface of the light guide rod 3b, is not visible to an occupant sitting in a seat 60 in the vehicle interior 2a. This makes it possible to realize a comfortable illuminated space.

[0068] The lighting device 3X is covered by a light-shielding cover 4X fixed to the ceiling 10. Specifically, the light-shielding cover 4X covers the side circumferential surface of the light guiding rod 3b facing the floor. The light-shielding cover 4X does not cover the side circumferential surface on the front side of the light guiding rod 3b. This allows light to be emitted from the side circumferential surface on the front side of the light guiding rod 3b.

[0069] In this modified example, too, if Wa is the distance along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3X to the position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3X and the luminance of the illumination area (illumination surface) of the lighting device 3X on the ceiling 10, is 50% of the maximum luminance, Wx is the width of the vehicle interior 2a, and Wb is the distance (width) along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3X to the position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3X and the luminance of the illumination area (illumination surface) of the lighting device 3X on the ceiling 10, is 10% of the maximum luminance, then the relationship expressions Wa / Wx≧2.5% and 100≦Wb / Wa≦1000 are satisfied.

[0070] By making Wa / Wx ≧ 2.5%, the illuminated area can be expanded in the vehicle width direction of the automobile 2, thereby obtaining a brighter, more open-feeling illuminated space. Also, by making 100≦Wb / Wa≦1000, the sense of brightness and openness can be further enhanced. Furthermore, by making 200≦Wb / Wa≦300, the sense of brightness and openness can be further enhanced.

[0071] (Second Modification of First Embodiment) Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1Y according to a second modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle interior lighting system 1Y according to the second modification of the first embodiment in the width direction of the automobile 2.

[0072] The lighting device 3Y in the vehicle interior lighting system 1Y according to this modification is installed on the ceiling 10, similar to the lighting device 3X in the modification 1, but is installed at a different location on the ceiling 10 from the lighting device 3X in the modification 1. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 6 , the lighting device 3Y in this modification is installed in the center of the ceiling 10 in the width direction, and emits light in both the front-rear direction and the width direction of the vehicle. This makes it possible to obtain an illuminated space with an illuminated area that is wider in the vehicle width direction, thereby providing an illuminated space with a sense of openness.

[0073] Furthermore, the lighting device 3Y may be a line light extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. This not only allows for an illuminated space with an illuminated area expanded in the width direction of the vehicle, but also allows for an illuminated space with a large width in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the vehicle. Therefore, light can be irradiated onto the ceiling 10 over a wider illuminated area, resulting in a brighter, more open-feeling illuminated space. Furthermore, since the illuminance on the ceiling 10 (illuminated surface) is gradient, as described above, a more open-feeling illuminated space can be achieved. As an example, the lighting device 3Y, which is a line light, includes a light source and a light guide rod into which light emitted from the light source enters. Furthermore, the lighting device 3Y may be covered with a light-shielding cover.

[0074] In this modification, the lighting device 3Y also provides indirect lighting and irradiates illumination light toward the ceiling 10, as in the first embodiment. That is, the interior of the vehicle compartment 2a is irradiated with indirect light obtained by irradiating the lighting device 3Y and reflecting it off the ceiling 10. The light exit surface of the lighting device 3Y is not visible to the occupants. As a result, in this modification, even if the lighting device 3Y is turned on while driving, it is possible to create a space in the vehicle compartment 2a while maintaining a safe driving environment.

[0075] In this modified example, too, if Wa is the distance along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3Y to the position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3Y and the luminance of the illumination area (illumination surface) of the lighting device 3Y on the ceiling 10, is 50% of the maximum luminance, Wx is the width of the vehicle interior 2a, and Wb is the distance (width) along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3Y to the position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3Y and the luminance of the illumination area (illumination surface) of the lighting device 3Y on the ceiling 10, is 10% of the maximum luminance, then the relationship expressions Wa / Wx≧2.5% and 100≦Wb / Wa≦1000 are satisfied.

[0076] By making Wa / Wx ≧ 2.5%, the illumination area can be expanded in the vehicle width direction of the automobile 2, so that an illumination area with a wide width in the front-to-rear direction (vertical direction) can be obtained when viewed from the rear to the front. This allows for a bright and spacious illumination space. Furthermore, by making 100≦Wb / Wa≦1000, the sense of brightness and spaciousness can be further enhanced. Furthermore, by making 200≦Wb / Wa≦300, the sense of brightness and spaciousness can be further enhanced.

[0077] (Third Modification of First Embodiment) Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1Z according to a third modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle interior lighting system 1Z according to the third modification of the first embodiment in the width direction of the automobile 2.

[0078] The lighting device 3Z in the vehicle interior lighting system 1Z according to this modification is installed on the ceiling 10, similar to the lighting device 3Y in Modification 2, but is installed at a different location on the ceiling 10 from the lighting device 3Y in Modification 2. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 7 , the lighting device 3Z in this modification is installed at an end of the ceiling 10 in the width direction, and emits light in the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle as well as toward the center of the vehicle in the width direction. This makes it possible to obtain an illuminated space with an illumination area that is wider in the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle at the end of the width direction of the ceiling 10, thereby providing an illuminated space with a sense of openness.

[0079] In this case, the lighting device 3Z may irradiate light toward the curved surface 11 at the end of the ceiling 10 in the width direction. As a result, the light from the lighting device 3Z is reflected by the curved surface 11 and irradiated toward the interior of the vehicle compartment 2a. Therefore, the light can be irradiated over a wider spatial area within the vehicle compartment 2a, thereby providing an illuminated space that feels bright and open.

[0080] Furthermore, the lighting device 3Z may be a line light extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. This not only allows for an illuminated space with an illuminated area extending toward the center of the vehicle width direction, but also allows for an illuminated space with a wide illumination area in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the vehicle. Therefore, light can be irradiated onto the ceiling 10 over a wider illumination area, resulting in a brighter, more open-feeling illuminated space. Furthermore, since the illuminance on the ceiling 10 (illuminated surface) is gradient, as described above, a more open-feeling illuminated space can be achieved. As an example, the lighting device 3Z, which is a line light, includes a light source and a light guide rod into which light emitted from the light source enters. Furthermore, the lighting device 3Z may be covered with a light-shielding cover.

[0081] In this modification, the lighting device 3Z also provides indirect lighting and irradiates illumination light toward the ceiling 10, as in the first embodiment. That is, the interior of the vehicle compartment 2a is irradiated with indirect light obtained by irradiating the lighting device 3Z and reflecting it off the ceiling 10. Furthermore, the light exit surface of the lighting device 3Z is not visible to the occupants. As a result, in this modification, even if the lighting device 3Z is turned on while driving, it is possible to create a space within the vehicle compartment 2a while maintaining a safe driving environment.

[0082] In this modified example, too, if Wa is the distance along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3Z to the position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3Z and the luminance of the illumination area (illumination surface) of the lighting device 3Z on the ceiling 10, is 50% of the maximum luminance, Wx is the width of the vehicle interior 2a, and Wb is the distance (width) along the ceiling 10 from the position of the lighting device 3Z to the position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device 3Z and the luminance of the illumination area (illumination surface) of the lighting device 3Z on the ceiling 10, is 10% of the maximum luminance, then the relationship expressions Wa / Wx≧2.5% and 100≦Wb / Wa≦1000 are satisfied.

[0083] By making Wa / Wx ≧ 2.5%, the illumination area can be expanded in the vehicle width direction of the automobile 2, so that an illumination area with a wide width in the front-to-rear direction (vertical direction) can be obtained when viewed from the rear to the front. This allows for a bright and spacious illumination space. Furthermore, by making 100≦Wb / Wa≦1000, the sense of brightness and spaciousness can be further enhanced. Furthermore, by making 200≦Wb / Wa≦300, the sense of brightness and spaciousness can be further enhanced.

[0084] (Other Modifications of Embodiment 1) In the above-described embodiment 1, the lighting device 3 is installed on the B-pillar 32 of the pillar trim 30. However, this is not limiting, and the lighting device 3 may be installed on a part of the pillar trim 30 other than the B-pillar 32. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8 , the lighting device 3 may be installed not only on the B-pillar 32 but also on the A-pillar 31. In this case, too, the lighting device 3 may be installed around the periphery of the ceiling 10 and irradiate light toward the curved surface 11 at the end of the ceiling 10 in the width direction. Note that the lighting device 3 may not be installed on the B-pillar 32, but may be installed only on the A-pillar 31 or only on the C-pillar.

[0085] Furthermore, in the above-described variations 1 to 3, the illumination devices 3X to 3Z, which are line illumination devices, use the light guide rod 3b, but this is not limited to this. That is, the illumination devices 3X to 3Z may be line illumination devices that do not use the light guide rod 3b. In this case, the illumination devices 3X to 3Z may use an LED module in which multiple LED light sources are mounted in a row on a long mounting board. The long mounting board may be a rigid board or a flexible board.

[0086] In the above-described embodiment and modifications 1 to 3, the illumination light emitted from the lighting devices 3, 3X to 3Z is also used as light for creating a spatial atmosphere in the vehicle interior 2a, but this is not limiting. For example, the illumination light emitted from the lighting devices 3, 3X to 3Z may be used as light for an occupant in the vehicle interior 2a to perform a task.

[0087] (Embodiment 2) Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1A according to embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figs. 9 to 11. Fig. 9 is a top view of an automobile 2 in the vehicle interior lighting system 1A according to embodiment 2, and Fig. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the automobile 2. Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the vicinity of a center console 70 in the automobile 2.

[0088] As shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, a vehicle interior lighting system 1A according to this embodiment includes an automobile 2 and a lighting device 3A installed in the automobile 2, similar to the first embodiment.

[0089] The automobile 2 has a ceiling 10 , a floor 20 , a pillar trim 30 , a door trim 40 , a front door 51 , a rear door 52 , and a seat 60 .

[0090] As shown in Fig. 9, the automobile 2 has a center console 70. As shown in Fig. 9 and Fig. 11, the center console 70 is disposed between the driver's seat 61a and the passenger seat 61b. The center console 70 extends from an instrument panel provided at the front of the vehicle toward the rear of the vehicle. The front end of the center console 70 may be integrally connected to the center of the instrument panel in the left-right direction.

[0091] The center console 70 is provided with a shift lever 71, operation switches 72, and a console box 73 as molded parts. Although not shown, the center console 70 may also be provided with other molded parts such as a cup holder, a cigarette lighter socket, a power socket, and a box-shaped recess with an open top. The surface of the center console 70 has an uneven structure formed by these molded parts.

[0092] The shift lever 71 (select lever) is a lever that the driver operates to change the transmission while the automobile 2 is moving forward or to move the automobile 2 in reverse. The shift lever 71 protrudes upward from the center console 70.

[0093] The operation switches 72 are provided between the shift lever 71 and the console box 73. The operation switches 72 include a plurality of switches such as buttons to be pressed and dial knobs.

[0094] The operation switches 72 include, for example, a parking button for switching the parking brake (side brake) on and off, a power button for switching the engine of the automobile 2 between starting and stopping, a lighting button for switching the lighting device 3A on and off, a car audio operation switch for operating the car audio, and a car navigation system operation switch for operating the car navigation system. The car audio operation switches include, for example, a button for switching the audio on and off, a button for switching the music played on the audio, and a volume knob that is a dial knob for adjusting the audio volume. The car audio operation switches include, for example, a commander knob that is a dial knob for operating various commands, and a selection button.

[0095] The operation switches 72 may also include a button for selecting a drive mode of the automobile 2, a button for displaying a 360° view image on the center monitor of the instrument panel, etc. The commander knob may also be used for operations other than operating the car navigation system. The operation switches 72 do not have to include all of these switches.

[0096] The console box 73 is a storage box with a lid, and includes a box body 73a and an armrest 73b.

[0097] As shown in Fig. 12(a), the box body 73a is a storage box having an opening 73a1 that opens upward. The armrest 73b is a lid that covers the opening 73a1 of the box body 73a. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing how the console box 73 is opened and closed. Fig. 12(a) shows the state when the armrest 73b of the console box 73 is open, and Fig. 12(b) shows the state when the armrest 73b of the console box 73 is closed.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 12A , the box body 73a has a bottom surface 73a2 and four side walls 73a3 extending upright from the bottom surface 73a2. The four side walls 73a3 form the four faces of a rectangular parallelepiped. Of the four side walls 73a3, the side wall 73a3 located at the front is the front side wall, the side wall 73a3 located at the rear is the rear side wall, the side wall 73a3 located on the right is the right side wall, and the side wall 73a3 located on the left is the left side wall. These four side walls 73a3 and the bottom surface 73a2 form the storage space (space) of the box body 73a.

[0099] The armrest 73b is rotatably connected to the box body 73a via a hinge mechanism. The armrest 73b can open the opening 73a1 of the box body 73a as shown in FIG. 12(a) or close the opening 73a1 of the box body 73a as shown in FIG. 12(b). As shown by the arrow in FIG. 12(b), pressing a switch 73b1 on the armrest 73b releases the engagement between a claw 73b2 (locking portion) on the back side of the armrest 73b and a hole 73a4 (locked portion) in the box body 73a. This allows the armrest 73b to be opened as shown in FIG. 12(a).

[0100] In this embodiment, the armrest 73b is configured with a pair of lids that are paired in the vehicle width direction and open like double doors. Therefore, hinges connecting the armrest 73b to the box body 73a are provided on each of the left and right side wall portions 73a3 of the box body 73a. The armrest 73b may be configured with a single lid instead of a pair of lids. In this case, the armrest 73b may be configured to open only left or right, or only front or rear, instead of opening like double doors.

[0101] The armrest 73b protrudes further forward than the front side wall portion of the four side wall portions 73a3 that make up the box body 73a. In other words, the front portion of the armrest 73b has an eave-like shape.

[0102] Here, the configuration of the lighting device 3A will be described using Fig. 13 while referring to Figs. 11 and 12. Fig. 13 is a view of the periphery of a console box 73 provided in the center console 70. In Fig. 13, (a) is a top view of the periphery of the console box 73, (b) is a side view of the periphery of the console box 73, and (c) is a front view of the console box 73.

[0103] The lighting device 3A is an interior lighting device installed in the passenger compartment 2a. As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 , the lighting device 3A is installed in a console box 73. In this embodiment, the lighting device 3A is installed in a box main body 73a of the console box 73. Specifically, the lighting device 3A is installed in a front side wall portion of the four side wall portions 73a3 of the box main body 73a. As shown in FIG. 13 , the lighting device 3A is installed so as to be embedded between a pair of holes 73a4 in the side wall portion 73a3, which is the front side wall portion.

[0104] As shown in FIGS. 13A to 13C, the illumination device 3A is disposed so as to face a commander knob (one of the dial knobs) included in the operation switches 72.

[0105] The lighting device 3A is a lighting fixture that emits illumination light, and includes a light source 100 and an optical member 200 that transmits the light emitted from the light source 100. As an example, the lighting device 3A emits white light.

[0106] In this embodiment, the light source 100 is an LED light source configured by a light emitting diode (LED), and therefore the illumination device 3A is an LED illumination device.

[0107] The light source 100 is, for example, a white LED light source that emits white light. As an example, the light source 100 is a chip-on-board (COB) type LED module that includes a substrate, an LED chip mounted on the substrate, and a sealing member that seals the LED chip.

[0108] The substrate is a mounting substrate for mounting the LED chip, and may be, for example, a ceramic substrate, a resin substrate, or a metal-based substrate. The substrate is provided with a pair of electrode terminals for receiving DC power from an external source to cause the LED chip to emit light, and metal wiring for supplying DC power to the LED chip. The electrode terminals are electrically connected to a power supply circuit by an electric wire. The power supply circuit may be, for example, built into the lighting device 3A or disposed externally to the lighting device 3A.

[0109] The LED chip is an example of a semiconductor light-emitting element that emits light using a predetermined DC power, and is a bare chip that emits monochromatic visible light. Specifically, the LED chip is a blue LED chip that emits blue light when powered. One or more LED chips are arranged on a substrate, for example, and are electrically connected to each other by metal wiring formed on the substrate.

[0110] The sealing member is, for example, a translucent resin. The sealing member in this embodiment contains a phosphor as a wavelength conversion material that converts the wavelength of light from the LED chip. The sealing member is, for example, a phosphor-containing resin in which a phosphor is dispersed in a silicone resin. When the LED chip is a blue LED chip, for example, a YAG-based yellow phosphor can be used as the phosphor particles to obtain white light. As a result, the yellow phosphor absorbs a portion of the blue light emitted by the blue LED chip, becomes excited, and emits yellow light. This yellow light then mixes with the blue light not absorbed by the yellow phosphor to form white light, which is then emitted from the sealing member (light-emitting portion).

[0111] In addition, when multiple LED chips are mounted on the substrate, the sealing member may be formed to seal all of the LED chips together, or may seal multiple LED chips in a line by row, or may seal each LED chip individually.

[0112] Furthermore, the light source 100 is not limited to a COB-type LED module. For example, the light source 100 may be an LED module with a surface-mounted device (SMD) structure in which one or more SMD-type LED elements are mounted on a substrate. In this case, the LED elements are individually packaged SMD-type LED light sources, and include a white resin or ceramic container (package) with a recess, one or more LED chips primarily mounted on the bottom of the container's recess, and a sealing member filled in the container's recess and sealing the LED chips. The sealing member is made of a translucent resin material such as silicone resin. When the LED chip is a blue LED chip, a phosphor-containing resin containing a wavelength conversion material such as a phosphor is used as the sealing member. This allows the LED element to emit white light.

[0113] The lighting device 3A has a housing that houses the LED light source 100, and the LED light source 100 is disposed on the bottom surface or the like of the housing.

[0114] The optical member 200 is a translucent member that transmits light emitted from the LED light source 100. The optical member 200 is formed using a translucent material. Specifically, the optical member 200 is made of a transparent material such as a transparent resin material such as acrylic or polycarbonate, or a glass material. In this embodiment, the optical member 200 is a plate-shaped transparent panel.

[0115] The optical member 200 is disposed in front of the LED light source 100. The optical member 200 is also an outer member of the lighting device 3A. In this case, light emitted from the LED light source 100 passes through the optical member 200 and is irradiated onto a predetermined irradiation area. The optical member 200 is disposed so as to cover an opening of a housing that houses the LED light source 100.

[0116] The optical member 200 is not limited to a transparent panel, and may be a member that controls the light distribution of light emitted from the LED light source 100. For example, the optical member 200 may be a diffusion panel (diffusion cover) that scatters and transmits the light emitted from the LED light source 100. As a result, the light emitted from the LED light source 100 is diffused (scattered) by the optical member 200, which is a diffusion panel, and is irradiated onto a predetermined irradiation area.

[0117] The lighting device 3A has a light exit surface 3a, which is an outer surface of the lighting device 3A and from which light is emitted. The light exit surface 3a is an exposed outer surface of the lighting device 3A. In this embodiment, the light exit surface 3a is an outer surface of the optical member 200.

[0118] The light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3A is not visible to an occupant sitting in the seat 60 in the vehicle interior 2a. In other words, the light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3A is not visible to an occupant sitting in the seat 60. In this embodiment, the armrest 73b is provided to protrude from the box main body 73a on which the lighting device 3A is provided, so that the light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3A is not visible to an occupant sitting in the seat 60. Specifically, the light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3A is not visible to an occupant sitting in the driver's seat 61a and the passenger seat 61b. In other words, the lighting device 3A provides indirect lighting.

[0119] In this embodiment as well, the lighting device 3A is turned on when the driver is driving the automobile 2 (during driving). In other words, illumination light is emitted from the lighting device 3A while driving. The lighting device 3A may not only be turned on while driving, but may also be turned on at times other than when driving. For example, the lighting device 3A may also be turned on when an occupant gets into the automobile 2 or when an occupant gets out of the automobile 2. The lighting device 3A may also be turned on during the daytime as well as at night. Turning on the lighting device 3A during the daytime can create an open-air illuminated space.

[0120] In the present embodiment, the illumination light emitted from the illumination device 3A (LED light source 100) is white light, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, the illumination device 3A may have a function for dimming and adjusting the color of the illumination light. This allows the brightness and color temperature of the illumination light emitted from the illumination device 3A to be changed, thereby enabling spatial effects to be created within the vehicle interior 2a.

[0121] Here, the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3A will be described with reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15. Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 are diagrams showing a state when the lighting device 3A according to the second embodiment is turned on. Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the periphery of a console box 73 provided in the center console 70, Fig. 15(a) is a top view of the periphery of the console box 73, and Fig. 15(b) is a side view of the periphery of the console box 73.

[0122] 14 and 15, the light (illumination light) emitted from the lighting device 3A does not illuminate the entire space in the vehicle interior 2a, but illuminates a part of the space in the vehicle interior 2a. In Fig. 14 and 15, the area indicated by dotted hatching indicates the area illuminated by the light emitted from the lighting device 3A.

[0123] In this embodiment, the lighting device 3A emits light that illuminates the center console 70. Specifically, the lighting device 3A emits light laterally. For example, the lighting device 3A emits light toward the front of the vehicle. As a result, a portion of the center console 70 is illuminated by the light emitted from the lighting device 3A. In this case, the illumination light from the lighting device 3A illuminates the operation switches 72 provided on the center console 70. For example, the illumination light from the lighting device 3A illuminates the operation unit for the parking brake (parking button), the operation switches for the car audio, and the operation switches for the car navigation system.

[0124] The illumination light from the illumination device 3A may illuminate not only the operation switches 72 but also other structures provided on the center console 70, such as the shift lever 71 and cup holders.

[0125] As described above, the vehicle interior lighting system 1A according to this embodiment includes a lighting device 3A that emits light to illuminate the center console 70 in the vehicle interior 2a, and the lighting device 3A emits light to the side.

[0126] This configuration makes it easier for shadows to appear on the structures of the center console 70, such as the shift lever 71 and the operation switches 72, which have uneven surfaces. This emphasizes the sense of shadow on the structures of the center console 70. In other words, illuminating the center console 70 from above to below with light does not tend to cast shadows on the structures of the center console 70. However, illuminating the center console 70 with light from the lighting device 3A shining light laterally makes it easier to cast shadows on the structures of the center console 70. As a result, the structures of the center console 70 can be highlighted by the light from the lighting device 3A. In particular, if the surface of the resin center console 70 is decorated, the decorative surface (e.g., a glossy surface) of the center console 70 can be highlighted. This allows the occupants of the automobile 2 to experience a rich and uplifting feeling due to the shadows cast by the center console 70. In particular, the driver can experience a sense of excitement (a sense of excitement) due to the cockpit-like feel.

[0127] Furthermore, the shadow cast on the structure of the center console 70 between the driver's seat 61a and the passenger seat 61b places the center of gravity of the light in the center of the passenger compartment 2a. In other words, the attention of the passengers in the automobile 2 can be focused on the area around the center console 70. This allows the passengers in the front seat 61 and the rear seat 62 to share the same viewpoint, creating a sense of unity among the passengers in the automobile 2. In particular, when looking forward from the rear seat 62, the area in front of the passenger's line of sight (from the front to the back) is bright, so the passengers seated in the rear seat 62 can sense distance and perceive the space in the passenger compartment 2a as being larger. In other words, a sense of openness can be achieved.

[0128] In this way, by casting a shadow on the center console 70 with the lighting device 3A, a rich and uplifting feeling can be obtained, and a sense of unity and openness can be obtained within the vehicle interior 2a, thereby creating a high-quality space within the vehicle interior 2a.

[0129] Furthermore, by providing the driver with a sense of elation, the driver's drowsiness can be suppressed and the driver can be kept awake, thereby ensuring a safe driving environment.

[0130] In this way, the vehicle interior lighting system 1A according to this embodiment can create a space within the vehicle interior 2a while ensuring a safe driving environment, thereby realizing a safe and comfortable illuminated space.

[0131] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1A according to this embodiment, the center console 70 is provided with operation switches 72, which are illuminated by the light from the lighting device 3A.

[0132] In this way, by illuminating the operation switches 72 with light from the lighting device 3A, the visibility of the operation switches 72 at night can be improved compared to when the operation switches 72 themselves are illuminated by indicator lamps. This makes it easier for the driver to see the operation switches 72 at night, improving the operability of the operation switches 72 and further ensuring safety.

[0133] When illuminating the operation switches 72, the brightness (illuminance) and color temperature of the illumination light from the lighting device 3A can be changed to further improve the visibility of the operation switches 72 and the spatial presentation effect in the vehicle interior 2a. In addition, by changing the color of the illumination light from the lighting device 3A to a color that makes the operation switches 72 more visible, the visibility of the operation switches 72 can be further improved.

[0134] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1A according to this embodiment, the lighting device 3A is installed in a console box 73 in the center console 70.

[0135] This configuration allows the light from the lighting device 3A to be easily projected laterally onto the center console 70. In particular, by installing the lighting device 3A on the front side wall of the box body 73a of the console box 73, light can be projected diagonally downward and laterally, which makes it easier to cast shadows on the shaped features of the center console 70. This further enhances the feeling of luxury and exhilaration created by the shadows cast by the center console 70, thereby creating an even more luxurious atmosphere within the vehicle interior 2a.

[0136] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1A according to this embodiment, the armrest 73b of the console box 73 protrudes further forward than the front side wall of the box body 73a.

[0137] With this configuration, the light emitting surface 3a of the lighting device 3A is not visible to an occupant (such as a driver) sitting in the seat 60. In other words, the lighting device 3A provides indirect lighting in which the light emitting surface 3a is not visible.

[0138] In this way, by using the lighting device 3A as indirect lighting, the interior space of the vehicle 2a can be further enhanced in quality. Moreover, since the light emitting surface 3a of the lighting device 3A is not visible to the occupants, the light emitted from the lighting device 3A does not directly enter the eyes of the occupants. In particular, since the light from the lighting device 3A does not directly enter the eyes of the driver, the safe driving environment can be further improved.

[0139] (Variation 1 of Embodiment 2) Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1AX according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of the periphery of a center console 70 of an automobile 2 in a vehicle interior lighting system 1AX according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 2. In Fig. 16, the area indicated by dotted hatching indicates the area illuminated by light emitted from the lighting device 3AX.

[0140] The vehicle interior lighting system 1AX in this modified example is different from the vehicle interior lighting system 1A in the above-described embodiment 2 in the configuration of the optical member 200X of the lighting device 3AX. Specifically, in the lighting device 3A in the above-described embodiment 2, the optical member 200 is present only in a part of the width direction of the console box 73, but in the lighting device 3AX in this modified example, the optical member 200X is present across the entire width direction of the console box 73.

[0141] As a result, a portion of the light emitted from the light source 100 of the lighting device 3AX is guided within the optical member 200X and spreads, making it possible to illuminate a wider area of ​​the center console 70 compared to the second embodiment.

[0142] (Second Modification of Second Embodiment) Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1AY according to a second modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing the configuration of the periphery of a center console 70 of an automobile 2 in the vehicle interior lighting system 1AY according to the second modification of the second embodiment. In Fig. 17, the area indicated by dotted hatching indicates the area illuminated by light emitted from the lighting device 3AY.

[0143] The vehicle interior lighting system 1AY in this modification is different from the vehicle interior lighting system 1A in the above-described embodiment 2 in the configuration of the optical member 200Y of the lighting device 3AY. Specifically, while the optical member 200 of the lighting device 3A in the above-described embodiment 2 is a transparent panel, the optical member 200Y of the lighting device 3AY in this modification has a diffusing lens that increases the light distribution angle of the light emitted from the light source 100. The optical member 200Y having a diffusing lens controls the light distribution of the light emitted from the light source 100.

[0144] In this way, by using the optical member 200Y having a diffusion lens, the light distribution of the illumination light emitted from the illumination device 3AY can be made elliptical. In other words, the illumination device 3AY in this modification is a direct-type illumination fixture like the illumination device in the second embodiment, but it is an elliptical light distribution type illumination fixture. As a result, it can illuminate a wider area of ​​the center console 70 than the illumination device in the second embodiment.

[0145] (Third Modification of Second Embodiment) Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1AZ according to a third modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing the configuration of the periphery of a center console 70 of an automobile 2 in a vehicle interior lighting system 1AZ according to the third modification of the second embodiment. In Fig. 18, the area indicated by dotted hatching indicates the area illuminated by light emitted from the lighting device 3AZ.

[0146] The vehicle interior lighting system 1AZ in this modification is different from the vehicle interior lighting system 1A in the above-described embodiment 2 in the structure of the lighting device 3AZ. Specifically, the lighting device 3A in the above-described embodiment 2 is a direct illumination type lighting fixture, whereas the lighting device 3AZ in this modification is a light guide type lighting fixture using a light guide member.

[0147] In this modification, the illumination device 3AZ includes a light source 100 and an optical member 200Z that is a light guide. The optical member 200Z that is a light guide has a light incident surface 201 onto which light emitted from the light source 100 is incident, and a light exit surface 202 (light-emitting surface) from which light that enters through the light incident surface 201 and is guided through the optical member 200Z exits.

[0148] The optical member 200Z, which is a light guide, is a light guide member that guides incident light. The optical member 200Z is made of a light-transmitting material. For example, the optical member 200Z is made of a transparent resin material or a transparent glass material. Examples of the transparent resin material that can be used include polycarbonate resin, fluororesin, and acrylic resin. The optical member 200Z may be, for example, a thin, cylindrical light guide rod or a rectangular light guide plate.

[0149] The light incident surface 201 of the optical element 200Z is an end surface of the optical element 200Z. Therefore, the lighting device 3Z is an edge-light type light-guiding lighting device. For example, if the optical element 200Z is a light-guiding rod, the light incident surface 201 is an end surface in the longitudinal direction of the optical element 200Z. Furthermore, if the optical element 200Z is a light-guiding plate, the light incident surface 201 is a side end surface of the optical element 200Z. The light source 100 is disposed opposite the light incident surface 201 of the optical element 200Z. An optical element such as a lens that collimates light emitted from the light source 100 may be disposed on the light incident surface 201 of the optical element 200Z. This can improve the light incidence efficiency of light emitted from the light source 100 entering the optical element 200Z. Note that this lens may be part of the optical element 200Z or may be provided separately from the optical element 200Z.

[0150] The light exit surface 202 of the optical element 200Z is a side surface of the optical element 200Z. For example, if the optical element 200Z is a light guiding rod, the light exit surface 202 is a peripheral side surface (convex curved surface) of the optical element 200Z. Furthermore, if the optical element 200Z is a light guiding plate, the light exit surface 202 is a planar main surface of the optical element 200Z. The light exit surface 202 of the optical element 200Z is the light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3Z, which is an exposed surface exposed to the outside. However, the light exit surface 3a is not visible to the occupants of the automobile 2.

[0151] The width (width in the vehicle width direction) of the light emitting surface 202 of the optical member 200Z, which is the light emitting surface, is preferably at least 50 mm or more, and more preferably 70 mm or more.

[0152] In addition, when the optical element 200Z is a light guide plate, it is preferable that the perpendicular line to the back surface of the light guide plate (the surface opposite to the light exit surface 202) is inclined downward with respect to the horizontal line, and it is preferable that the perpendicular line to the surface of the light guide plate (the light exit surface 202) is inclined upward with respect to the horizontal line.

[0153] In this way, by using a light-guiding type lighting fixture for the lighting device 3Z, the width of the light exit surface 202 (light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3) of the optical element 200Z can be easily increased, so that a wider area of ​​the center console 70 can be easily illuminated compared to a direct-light type lighting fixture.

[0154] In this case, it is preferable that the light from the lighting device 3Z includes rays that travel in a direction at an angle of 30° or more with the normal to the light incident surface 201 of the optical member 200Z being 0°. This allows the light to easily reach the back of shaped objects (especially dial knobs with unevenness) such as the operation switches 72 provided near the lighting device 3Z, thereby eliminating dark areas and providing a more shading-like and high-quality feel with the soft light.

[0155] A lens (such as a lenticular lens or a prism) that spreads the light emitted from the optical member 200Z in the vehicle width direction may be disposed on the light emission surface 202 of the optical member 200Z. This allows the light emitted from the lighting device 3Z to be further spread in the vehicle width direction, thereby illuminating an even wider range.

[0156] A diffusion plate may be disposed on the light exit surface 202 of the optical member 200Z. This diffuses the light exiting from the optical member 200Z, and therefore the light exiting from the lighting device 3Z can be easily spread in the lateral direction of the vehicle width.

[0157] Furthermore, a reflector may be disposed on the surface of the optical element 200Z opposite to the light exit surface 202 (the surface opposite to the light exit surface 3a). This allows light leaking from the surface opposite to the light exit surface 202 to be returned to the optical element 200Z, thereby improving the light utilization efficiency.

[0158] The illumination light from the illumination device 3Z may have a narrower spread in the vertical direction (vertical plane). For example, the illumination light from the illumination device 3Z may have a height of 100 mm to 400 mm from the bottom surface of the instrument panel (e.g., a position about 400 mm away from the illumination device 3Z) to a point of 1 / 10 of the maximum illumination intensity.

[0159] (Other Modifications of Embodiment 2) In the above-described embodiment 2, the lighting device 3A that emits light toward the center console 70 is installed in the console box 73. However, this is not limited to this. Specifically, the lighting device 3A may be installed in an overhead console provided on the ceiling 10 of the automobile 2. That is, the lighting device 3A may emit light downward from the ceiling 10, rather than emitting light from the side toward the center console 70, thereby emitting light toward the center console 70. In this case, the lighting device 3A may be an indirect light source so that the light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3A is not visible to passengers seated in the seats 60 in the vehicle interior 2a. For example, the light exit surface 3a of the lighting device 3A may be covered with a light-shielding cover or the like. Furthermore, when the lighting device 3A is installed in the overhead console and emits light downward from the ceiling 10, the light emitted from the lighting device 3A may be a pinhole spot light.

[0160] In the second embodiment, the parking button, which is one of the operation switches 72, is a side brake operation unit that electrically switches the parking brake on and off, but the side brake operation unit provided on the center console 70 is not limited to an electrical switch. For example, the side brake operation unit provided on the center console 70 may be a lever-type side brake.

[0161] Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1B according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 19 and Fig. 20. Fig. 19 is a top view of an automobile 2 in the vehicle interior lighting system 1B according to the third embodiment, and Fig. 20 is a side cross-sectional view of the automobile 2.

[0162] As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, a vehicle interior lighting system 1B according to this embodiment includes an automobile 2 and a lighting device 3B installed in the automobile 2, similar to the first embodiment.

[0163] The automobile 2 has a ceiling 10 , a floor 20 , a pillar trim 30 , a door trim 40 , a front door 51 , a rear door 52 , and a seat 60 .

[0164] 19 and 20 is an interior lighting device installed in the vehicle interior 2a. In this embodiment, the lighting device 3B is a floor light that emits light to illuminate the floor 20 in the vehicle interior 2a, and is installed below the seating portion of the seat 60. Specifically, the lighting device 3B is installed between the seating portion of the seat 60 and the floor 20. The lighting device 3B may be fixed to the seating portion of the seat 60 or may be fixed to the floor 20.

[0165] A plurality of lighting devices 3B are installed in the vehicle interior 2a. Specifically, three lighting devices 3B, namely, a first lighting device 3Ba, a second lighting device 3Bb, and a third lighting device 3Bc, are installed in the vehicle interior 2a. The first lighting device 3Ba is installed below the seat of the rear seat 62. The second lighting device 3Bb is installed below the seat of the driver's seat 61a of the front seat 61. The third lighting device 3Bc is installed below the seat of the passenger seat 61b of the front seat 61.

[0166] As in the first embodiment, the lighting device 3B is a lighting fixture having a light source (not shown) and emits illumination light. The light source used in the lighting device 3B is, for example, an LED light source configured with light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Therefore, the lighting device 3B is an LED lighting device. The LED light source has, for example, a mounting substrate such as a PCB substrate and one or more LED elements mounted on the mounting substrate. The lighting device 3B has a housing that houses the LED light source, and light emitted from the LED light source passes through an opening in the housing and is irradiated onto a predetermined illumination area as the illumination light of the lighting device 3B.

[0167] In this embodiment, the lighting device 3B is a line illuminator that emits a line of illumination light. Specifically, the lighting device 3B has an LED light source and a light guiding rod into which light emitted from the LED light source enters. The light guiding rod has a side surface from which light guided through the light guiding rod exits to the outside, and a line of illumination light is emitted from the side surface of the light guiding rod. The light guiding rod is, for example, a long, thin, cylindrical light guide. The light guiding rod is made of, for example, a transparent resin material or a transparent glass material. The transparent resin material that makes up the light guiding rod can be polycarbonate resin, fluororesin, acrylic resin, or the like.

[0168] The illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3B serves as light that illuminates the space within the vehicle interior 2a. As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3B does not illuminate the entire space within the vehicle interior 2a, but illuminates a portion of the space within the vehicle interior 2a. In this embodiment, the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3B partially illuminates the floor 20 within the vehicle interior 2a. In Figures 19 and 20, the area indicated by dotted hatching is the area within the vehicle interior 2a that is illuminated by the illumination light from the lighting device 3B.

[0169] As shown in Figures 19 and 20, each of the multiple lighting devices 3B is installed below the seat 60. Specifically, each lighting device 3B is installed below the seat bottom of the seat 60. Each lighting device 3B installed below the seat 60 irradiates illumination light onto a portion of the floor 20 below the seat 60. Specifically, a first lighting device 3Ba installed below the rear seat 62 irradiates illumination light partially onto the floor 20 below the rear seat 62. Furthermore, a second lighting device 3Bb installed below the driver's seat 61a irradiates illumination light partially onto the floor 20 below the driver's seat 61a. Furthermore, a third lighting device 3Bc installed below the passenger seat 61b irradiates illumination light partially onto the floor 20 below the passenger seat 61b. Compared to the lighting devices (ceiling lights) installed on the ceiling 10 inside the vehicle compartment 2a, each lighting device 3B has a lower illuminance and a smaller illuminated area on the floor 20, and emits illumination light so as to form a light pool in a part of the vehicle compartment 2a.

[0170] 19 , when the automobile 2 is viewed from above, each lighting device 3B emits light so as to outline at least a part of the outline of the seat portion of the seat 60 in the passenger compartment 2a. Specifically, when the automobile 2 is viewed from above, each lighting device 3B emits light so as to outline the entire outline of the front end portion and the entire outline of the side end portion of the seat portion of the seat 60. In other words, the lighting device 3B can brightly illuminate the floor 20 in the area surrounding the seat 60.

[0171] In this embodiment, when the automobile 2 is viewed from above, the lighting device 3B irradiates light to an area at least 15 cm away from the edge of the seat 60. That is, the lighting device 3B irradiates light to an area at least 15 cm away from each of the front and side edges of the seat 60. As an example, the lighting device 3B irradiates light to a position 23 cm away from the edge of the seat 60, but this is not limited to this. Note that the first lighting device 3Ba, the second lighting device 3Bb, and the third lighting device 3Bc may have different illumination widths from the edge of the seat 60. For example, the illumination width from the seat of the first lighting device 3Ba installed below the rear seat 62 may be larger than the illumination widths from the seat of the second lighting device 3Bb and the third lighting device 3Bc.

[0172] Each of the lighting devices 3B is installed below the seat 60 and does not irradiate light onto the upper surface of the seat portion of the seat 60. The contrast ratio between the maximum illuminance of the seat portion of the seat 60 and the maximum illuminance of the floor 20 illuminated by the lighting devices 3B is, for example, maximum illuminance of the floor 20:maximum illuminance of the seat portion of the seat 60=5:1 to 100:1.

[0173] Furthermore, the light exit surface of the lighting device 3B installed below the seat 60 is not visible to the occupant sitting in the seat 60 in the vehicle interior 2a. That is, the light exit surface of the lighting device 3B is not visible to the occupant sitting in the seat 60. For example, the light exit surface of the first lighting device 3Ba is not visible to the occupant sitting in the rear seat 62. Furthermore, the light exit surface of the second lighting device 3Bb is not visible to the occupant sitting in the driver's seat 61a. Furthermore, the light exit surface of the third lighting device 3Bc is not visible to the occupant sitting in the passenger seat 61b.

[0174] 21 shows the state of the interior of the vehicle compartment 2a when all of the first lighting device 3Ba, the second lighting device 3Bb, and the third lighting device 3Bc are turned on. As shown in FIG. 21, the floor 20 is illuminated with light emitted from the first lighting device 3Ba, the second lighting device 3Bb, and the third lighting device 3Bc, making the seat 60 appear to be floating. This creates a floating sensation. Furthermore, it can also provide the occupants with a rich and exhilarating feeling.

[0175] 21 , the area of ​​the floor 20 surrounding the seat 60 is brightly illuminated, thereby illuminating the feet of the occupant when they enter or exit the vehicle compartment 2a. In other words, the lighting device 3B also functions as a footlight. This improves the ease of entry and exit for the occupant and provides a sense of security to the occupant. Furthermore, the illumination of the area of ​​the floor 20 surrounding the seat 60 makes it easier to determine the position of the feet, and the silhouette of the seat 60 is visible, making it easier to understand the seating position.

[0176] As shown in Figure 22, in a cross-sectional view of the automobile 2, if the straight line connecting the eyes of an occupant sitting in the rear seat 62 and the tip of the seat of the rear seat 62 is line L1, the second lighting device 3Bb and the third lighting device 3Bc installed under the seat of the front seat 61 (driver's seat 61a or passenger seat 61b) are installed further forward of the line L1.

[0177] 22 , in a cross-sectional view of the automobile 2, if a straight line connecting the eyes and toes of an occupant seated in the rear seat 62 is defined as line L2, the lighting devices 3B are installed within ±30° of line L2. Specifically, the first lighting device 3Ba, the second lighting device 3Bb, and the third lighting device 3Bc are all installed within ±30° of line L2.

[0178] The lighting device 3B is turned on when the driver is driving the vehicle 2 (during driving). In other words, illumination light is emitted from the lighting device 3B while driving. The lighting device 3B may not only be turned on while driving, but may also be turned on at times other than when driving. For example, the lighting device 3B may also be turned on when an occupant gets into the vehicle 2 or when an occupant gets out of the vehicle 2 (i.e., when getting in and out). The lighting device 3B may not be turned on while driving, but may be turned on only when getting in and out. The lighting device 3B may also be turned on during the daytime as well as at night. By turning on the lighting device 3B during the daytime, an open-looking illuminated space can be created.

[0179] In this embodiment, the illumination light emitted from the illumination device 3B (LED light source) is white light, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, the illumination device 3B may have a function for dimming and adjusting the color of the illumination light. This allows the brightness and color temperature of the illumination light emitted from the illumination device 3B to be changed, thereby enabling spatial effects to be created within the vehicle interior 2a.

[0180] As described above, the vehicle interior lighting system 1B of this embodiment is equipped with a lighting device 3B that emits light to illuminate the floor 20 inside the vehicle interior 2a, and when the automobile 2 is viewed from above, the lighting device 3B emits light so as to outline at least a portion of the contour of the seat portion of the seat 60 inside the vehicle interior 2a.

[0181] This allows the floating sensation to be created as described above. In addition, since the light from the lighting device 3B is directed toward the floor 20, direct light from the lighting device 3B does not enter the driver's eyes. Therefore, a high-quality interior space can be created within the vehicle compartment 2a while maintaining a safe driving environment. Moreover, as described above, the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle can also be improved.

[0182] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1B according to this embodiment, the lighting device 3B does not irradiate the upper surface of the seat portion of the seat 60 with light.

[0183] This increases the contrast ratio between the maximum illuminance of the seat portion of seat 60 and the maximum illuminance of floor 20 illuminated by lighting device 3B, further emphasizing the floating feeling. In this case, the contrast ratio (maximum illuminance of floor 20:maximum illuminance of the seat portion of seat 60) may be 5:1 to 100:1.

[0184] Furthermore, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1B according to this embodiment, when the automobile 2 is viewed from above, the lighting device 3B emits light so as to outline the entire contour of the front end and the entire contour of the side end of the seat portion of the seat 60.

[0185] This makes the entire seat 60 appear to be floating, further emphasizing the floating feeling. Also, by shining light along the outline of the side edges of the seat cushion of the seat 60, it is possible to form a pool of light outside the vehicle width, which further improves the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle for occupants.

[0186] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1B according to this embodiment, the lighting device 3B is installed below the seat portion of the seat 60.

[0187] This allows the lighting device 3B to be hidden by the seat 60, making the light-irradiating surface of the lighting device 3B invisible to the occupants. This eliminates the presence of the lighting device 3B and creates a high-quality illuminated space. Furthermore, with the simple configuration of installing the lighting device 3B below the seat portion of the seat 60, direct light from the lighting device 3B can be prevented from entering the driver's eyes.

[0188] In addition, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1B of this embodiment, the second lighting device 3Bb and the third lighting device 3Bc installed under the seat of the front seat 61 are installed further forward in the vehicle than the line L1 connecting the eyes of the occupant sitting in the rear seat 62 and the tip of the seat of the rear seat 62.

[0189] This configuration makes it possible to make the second lighting device 3Bb and the third lighting device 3Bc installed below the seat portion of the front seat 61 less visible to passengers seated in the rear seat 62. This makes it possible to eliminate the presence of the second lighting device 3Bb and the third lighting device 3Bc, thereby creating a high-quality atmosphere in the vehicle interior 2a.

[0190] In addition, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1B according to this embodiment, the lighting device 3B is installed within ±30° of the line L2 connecting the eyes and toes of the occupant seated in the rear seat 62.

[0191] This configuration makes it possible to make the lighting device 3B (particularly the first lighting device 3Ba installed below the seat portion of the rear seat 62) less visible to passengers seated in the rear seat 62. This makes it possible to eliminate the presence of the lighting device 3B, thereby creating a high-quality atmosphere in the vehicle interior 2a.

[0192] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1B according to this embodiment, the lighting device 3B is a line light.

[0193] By configuring the lighting device 3B as a line light, it is possible to easily form illumination light that outlines the contour of the seat portion of the seat 60.

[0194] In this case, the illumination device 3B, which is a line illumination, is composed of a light source and a light guiding rod into which the light emitted from the light source enters.

[0195] This makes it possible to easily realize the illumination device 3B for line illumination.

[0196] Furthermore, by bending the lighting device 3B, which is a line light, along the front end and side end of the seat portion of the seat 60, it is possible for a single lighting device 3B to emit illumination light that outlines the contours of the front end and side end. For example, if the lighting device 3B, which is a line light, uses a light guiding rod, it is possible to easily emit illumination light that outlines the contours of the front end and side end by bending the light guiding rod along the front end and side end.

[0197] (Variation of Embodiment 3) In the above-described Embodiment 3, the lighting device 3B that emits light to illuminate the floor 20 is installed below the sitting portion of the seat 60, but this is not limiting. Specifically, as in the vehicle interior lighting system 1BX shown in Fig. 23 , the lighting device 3B (fourth lighting device 3Bd) that emits light to illuminate the floor 20 may be installed below the dashboard 80. For example, the fourth lighting device 3Bd is installed below the dashboard 80 facing the driver's seat 61a (around the pedals) or below the dashboard 80 facing the passenger seat 61b (below the storage box).

[0198] In addition, in the third embodiment, the lighting device 3B is a lighting fixture of a light guide type using a light guide rod, but this is not limited to this. For example, the lighting device 3B may be a lighting fixture of a light guide type using a light guide member other than a light guide rod. In this case, a rectangular light guide plate can be used as the light guide member.

[0199] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the illumination device 3B, which is a line illuminator, is a line illuminator that uses a long light guiding rod, but this is not limiting. In other words, the illumination device 3B may be a line illuminator that does not use a light guiding rod.

[0200] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the lighting device 3B is a lighting fixture of the light guide type, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the lighting device 3B may be a lighting fixture of the direct illumination type. In this case, the lighting device 3 may use an LED module in which multiple LED light sources are mounted in a row on a long mounting board.

[0201] (Embodiment 4) Next, a vehicle interior lighting system 1C according to embodiment 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 24 to Fig. 26. Fig. 24 is a top view of an automobile 2 in the vehicle interior lighting system 1C according to embodiment 4, and Fig. 25 is a side cross-sectional view of the automobile 2. Fig. 26 is a side cross-sectional view showing the structure around a dashboard 80 of the automobile 2.

[0202] As shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, a vehicle interior lighting system 1C according to this embodiment includes an automobile 2, a display 4C installed in the automobile 2, and a lighting device 3C installed in the automobile 2.

[0203] The automobile 2 has a ceiling 10 , a floor 20 , a pillar trim 30 , a door trim 40 , a front door 51 , a rear door 52 , and a seat 60 .

[0204] 24 and 25, a dashboard 80 is provided in the passenger compartment 2a of the automobile 2. The dashboard 80 is provided in the front portion of the passenger compartment 2a. A steering wheel and the like operated by the driver are provided on the driver's seat 61a side of the dashboard 80. A display that displays instruments such as a speedometer is also provided on the driver's seat 61a side of the dashboard 80. A storage box is provided on the passenger seat 61b side of the dashboard 80.

[0205] The display 4C is an in-vehicle display installed in the vehicle interior 2a, and includes a display unit 4Ca as shown in Fig. 26. The display 4C is a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display. The display 4C may also function as a touch panel to enable touch operation.

[0206] The display 4C has display and operation functions for various systems, such as a car navigation system or an audio system. The display unit 4Ca of the display 4C is a display screen that displays output images from the various systems. The display unit 4Ca also functions as a GUI (Graphical User Interface) input means for operating the various systems through touch operations by an occupant. The display 4C is primarily operated by the driver seated in the driver's seat 61a, but may also be operated by another occupant, such as the occupant seated in the passenger seat 61b.

[0207] 26, in this embodiment, the display 4C is provided upright on the upper surface of the dashboard 80. In other words, the display 4C is provided so as to protrude from the upper surface of the dashboard 80.

[0208] The lighting device 3C is an interior lighting device installed in the vehicle interior 2a. The lighting device 3C is a lighting fixture having a light source (not shown) and emits illumination light. The light source used in the lighting device 3C is, for example, an LED light source configured with light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Therefore, the lighting device 3C is an LED lighting device. The LED light source includes, for example, a mounting substrate such as a PCB board and one or more LED elements mounted on the mounting substrate. The lighting device 3C has a housing that houses the LED light source, and light emitted from the LED light source passes through an opening in the housing and is irradiated onto a predetermined illumination area as the illumination light of the lighting device 3C. The illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3C (LED light source) is white light, but is not limited to this.

[0209] In this embodiment, the lighting device 3C is a light-guiding type lighting fixture using a light-guiding member, and includes an LED light source and a light-guiding rod into which light emitted from the LED light source enters. The light-guiding rod has a side surface from which light guided through the light-guiding rod exits to the outside. The light-guiding rod is, for example, a cylindrical light-guiding body. The light-guiding rod is made of, for example, a transparent resin material or a transparent glass material. Examples of the transparent resin material that can be used to make up the light-guiding rod include polycarbonate resin, fluororesin, and acrylic resin.

[0210] The illumination device 3C emits light to illuminate a peripheral area located outside the display unit 4Ca of the display 4C. In the present embodiment, the illumination device 3C emits light to illuminate a peripheral area located outside the display 4C. In other words, the illumination device 3C emits light to a peripheral area outside the outer member of the display 4C.

[0211] As shown in FIG. 26 , in this embodiment, the lighting device 3C is installed behind the display 4C, and the lighting device 3C emits light over an area wider than the back surface of the display 4C. Therefore, a portion of the light emitted from the lighting device 3C is blocked by the display 4C, while another portion of the light emitted from the lighting device 3C is not blocked by the display 4C and travels toward the occupant from the display 4C. As a result, as shown in FIG. 27 , the light emitted from the lighting device 3C travels while leaking out from the peripheral area outside the outer casing of the display 4C, brightly illuminating the spatial area around the display 4C. As a result, when the display 4C is viewed from the front, the peripheral area outside the display 4C is dimly illuminated. Note that FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating the vehicle interior lighting system 1C according to embodiment 4 when the lighting device 3C shown in FIG. 3 is turned on.

[0212] As shown in Figures 25 and 26, a cover 5C that covers the lighting device 3C is provided on the dashboard 80. The cover 5C is a light-blocking cover made of resin or metal. The cover 5C covers the portion of the lighting device 3C that faces the windshield. Specifically, the cover 5C covers an upper portion of the lighting device 3C and a portion of the lighting device 3C that faces the front of the vehicle. This allows the cover 5C to block light that is emitted from the lighting device 3C and travels toward the windshield.

[0213] As described above, the vehicle interior lighting system 1C according to this embodiment is installed in the vehicle interior 2a and includes the display 4C having the display unit 4Ca and the lighting device 3C installed in the vehicle interior 2a. The lighting device 3C emits light to illuminate a peripheral area located outside the display unit 4Ca of the display 4C.

[0214] This configuration brightens the surrounding area outside the display unit 4Ca of the display 4C, thereby reducing the difference in brightness between the brightness of the display unit 4Ca (display luminance) and the brightness of the surrounding area outside the display unit 4Ca (ambient luminance). This reduces eye fatigue felt by occupants looking at the display 4C. As such, the vehicle interior lighting system 1C according to this embodiment can reduce eye fatigue felt by occupants looking at the display 4C. In particular, since the difference in brightness between the display unit 4Ca and its surrounding area can be reduced even in dark environments such as at night, eye fatigue of occupants can be effectively reduced. Furthermore, the reduction in eye fatigue for the driver allows the vehicle 2 to be driven safely. Furthermore, bright illumination of the area around the display 4C can create a high-quality space inside the vehicle interior 2a.

[0215] In the vehicle interior lighting system 1C according to this embodiment, the lighting device 3C emits light to illuminate a peripheral area located outside the display 4C itself. Specifically, the display 4C is provided upright on the top surface of the dashboard 80, and the lighting device 3C is installed behind the display 4C. The lighting device 3C then emits light directly toward the back surface of the display 4C.

[0216] With this configuration, the light emitted from the illumination device 3C is blocked by the display 4C, and the surrounding area outside the display 4C is dimly illuminated. This effectively reduces the difference in brightness between the brightness of the display portion 4Ca of the display 4C and the brightness of the surrounding area outside the display portion 4Ca.

[0217] In addition, in the vehicle interior lighting system 1C according to this embodiment, a cover 5C that covers the lighting device 3C is provided on the dashboard 80.

[0218] With this configuration, the cover 5C can block light emitted from the lighting device 3C that travels toward the windshield, preventing the light emitted from the lighting device 3C from being reflected on the windshield. This prevents the driver's visibility from being impaired by light reflected on the windshield. This allows the driver to drive the automobile 2 more safely. Furthermore, by covering the lighting device 3C with the cover 5C, it is possible to prevent the light from the lighting device 3C from directly entering the eyes of the occupants. This allows the interior of the vehicle 2a to be maintained in a comfortable space even when the lighting device 3C is turned on.

[0219] (Variation of Embodiment 4) In the above-described embodiment 4, the lighting device 3C directly irradiates light onto the back surface of the display 4C. However, this is not limited to this. Specifically, as in the vehicle interior lighting system 1C shown in FIG. 28 , a reflector 6C that reflects light emitted from the lighting device 3C may be provided on the dashboard 80, and the light reflected by the reflector 6C may be irradiated onto the back surface of the display 4C. In other words, the light from the lighting device 3C may be indirectly irradiated onto the back surface of the display 4C. In this variation, as in the above-described embodiment 4, the luminance difference between the brightness of the display unit 4Ca and the brightness of the surrounding area outside the display unit 4Ca can be reduced, thereby reducing eye fatigue experienced by occupants viewing the display 4C. Furthermore, in this variation, the light reflected by the reflector 6C is irradiated onto the back surface of the display 4C. Therefore, compared to the above-described embodiment 4 in which light is directly irradiated onto the back surface of the display 4C, the lighting atmosphere in the surrounding area of ​​the display 4C can be softened. This can prevent the light around the display 4C from interfering with driving, and can further improve the quality of the space inside the vehicle interior 2a.

[0220] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the display 4C is provided upright on the upper surface of the dashboard 80, but this is not limiting. For example, the display 4CY may be embedded in the dashboard 80, as in the interior lighting system 1CY shown in FIG. 29 . Specifically, the display 4CY may be embedded in the center of the dashboard 80. In this case, the display 4CY may have a bezel provided in a frame region 4Cb surrounding the display unit 4Ca, and the illumination device 3CY may be installed in this bezel. In this modification, as in the above embodiment, the illumination device 3CY emits light to illuminate a peripheral region located outside the display unit 4Ca of the display 4CY. However, in this modification, the illumination device 3CY does not emit light to illuminate a peripheral region (spatial region) located outside the display 4CY itself, but emits light to illuminate the frame region 4Cb as a peripheral region located outside the display unit 4Ca. In other words, the frame region 4Cb of the display 4CY itself is illuminated. In this modified example, as in the above-mentioned fourth embodiment, the difference in brightness between the brightness of the display unit 4Ca and the brightness of the surrounding area outside the display unit 4Ca can be reduced, thereby preventing the occupants from feeling eye fatigue when looking at the display 4CY.

[0221] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the illumination device 3C is installed behind the display 4C, but this is not limiting. For example, the illumination device 3C may be installed above the display 4C. In this case, the illumination device 3C may be installed on an overhead console or a rearview mirror.

[0222] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the lighting device 3C is a lighting fixture of a light guide type using a light guide rod, but this is not limited to this. For example, the lighting device 3C may be a lighting fixture of a light guide type using a light guide member other than a light guide rod. In this case, a rectangular light guide plate can be used as the light guide member.

[0223] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the lighting device 3C is a lighting fixture of the light guide type, but this is not limited to this. For example, the lighting device 3C may be a lighting fixture of the direct illumination type. In this case, the lighting device 3C may use an LED module in which multiple LED light sources are mounted in a row on a long mounting board.

[0224] (Other Modifications) The vehicle interior lighting systems 1 to 1C according to the present invention have been described above based on embodiments 1 to 4 and their modifications, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments 1 to 4 and their modifications.

[0225] For example, in the above-described first to fourth embodiments, the light source of the lighting device 3 etc. is an LED light source, but this is not limited to this. For example, the light source of the lighting device 3 etc. may be an existing light source such as a fluorescent lamp, a xenon lamp, or a halogen lamp. However, by using an LED light source as the light source of the lighting device 3 etc., it is possible to reduce power consumption and to light the lighting device 3 etc. with a DC power supply.

[0226] Furthermore, in the above-described first to fourth embodiments, the automobile 2 is used as an example of the moving body, but the present invention is not limited to this. Specifically, the moving body may be a vehicle other than an automobile, such as a railway vehicle, as long as it has a passenger compartment.

[0227] In addition, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications that a person skilled in the art would conceive of to the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 4 and their modifications, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 4 and their modifications within the scope of the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention also includes any combination of one or more components in each of the multiple claims set forth in the claims at the time of filing. Furthermore, when the dependent-form claims set forth in the claims at the time of filing are made into a multiple claim or multiple multiple claim that cites any multiple claims (for example, when a multiple claim or multiple multiple claim is made so that each claim cites all of its parent claims), all forms obtained by combining all of the claims included in the multiple claim or multiple multiple claim are also included in the present invention.

[0228] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 1X, 1Y, 1Z, 1A, 1AX, 1AY, 1AZ, 1B, 1BX, 1C, 1CX, 1CY Vehicle interior lighting system 2a Vehicle interior 3, 3X, 3Y, 3Z, 3A, 3AX, 3AY, 3AZ, 3B, 3C, 3CY Lighting device 3a Light exit surface 3b Light guide rod 3Ba First lighting device 3Bb Second lighting device 3Bc Third lighting device 3Bd Fourth lighting device 4, 4X Light-shielding cover 4C, 4CY Display 4Ca Display unit 4Cb Frame area 5C Cover 6C Reflector 10 Ceiling 11 Curved surface 20 Floor 30 Pillar trim 32 B-pillar 40 Door trim 60 Seat 61 Front seat 61a Driver's seat 61b Passenger seat 62 Rear seat 70 Center console 71 Shift lever 72 Operation switches 73 Console box 73a Box body 73a1 Opening 73a3 Side wall 73b Armrest 80 Dashboard 100 Light source 200, 200X, 200Y, 200Z Optical member 201 Light incident surface 202 Light exit surface

Claims

1. A vehicle interior lighting system comprising: a lighting device that is installed inside a vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate a ceiling inside the vehicle interior, the lighting device having a light exit surface that is an outer surface of the lighting device from which the light exits, and the light exit surface is not visible to an occupant sitting in a seat inside the vehicle interior.

2. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device is installed on a pillar trim, and the lighting device irradiates light toward a curved surface at an end of the ceiling in the width direction.

3. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 2, wherein the pillar trim is a B-pillar.

4. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 2, wherein the light emitting surface of the lighting device is positioned above the eye position of an occupant seated in a seat inside the vehicle interior.

5. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device is installed on the ceiling behind a rear seat, and the lighting device irradiates light from the rear of the ceiling in a forward and upward direction.

6. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 5, wherein the lighting device is a line light extending in the width direction of the ceiling.

7. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 6, wherein the lighting device comprises a light source and a light guide rod into which light emitted from the light source enters, the light guide rod has a side peripheral surface from which light guided through the light guide rod exits to the outside, and the side peripheral surface of the light guide rod is the light exit surface of the lighting device.

8. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 7, wherein the side peripheral surface of the light guide rod is not visible to an occupant sitting in a seat inside the vehicle interior.

9. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device is installed in a central portion of the ceiling in a width direction, and the lighting device irradiates light in both the front-rear direction and the width direction of the vehicle.

10. A vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a light-shielding cover that covers the lighting device, and at least a portion of the light-shielding cover is positioned between an occupant seated in a seat in the vehicle interior and the lighting device.

11. A vehicle interior lighting system comprising a lighting device that is installed inside a vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate the ceiling of the vehicle interior, wherein Wa is the distance along the ceiling from the position of the lighting device to a position where the luminance, including the luminance of the lighting device and the luminance of the area illuminated by the light on the ceiling, is 50% of the maximum luminance, and Wx is the width of the vehicle interior, so that Wa / Wx≧2.5%.

12. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 11, wherein, when Wb is the distance along the ceiling from the position of the lighting device to a position where the luminance including the luminance of the lighting device and the luminance of the light-irradiated area on the ceiling is 10% of the maximum luminance, 100≦Wb / Wa≦1000.

13. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 11, wherein the lighting device is installed on a ceiling inside the vehicle interior.

14. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 13, wherein the lighting device is installed at an end of the ceiling in the width direction, and the lighting device irradiates light toward a curved surface at the end of the ceiling in the width direction.

15. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 13, wherein the lighting device is installed at a central portion in the width direction of the ceiling, and the lighting device irradiates light in the vehicle width direction.

16. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the lighting device is a line light extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

17. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 11, wherein the lighting device is installed on a pillar trim, and the lighting device irradiates light onto a curved surface at an end in the width direction of the ceiling.

18. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 17, wherein the lighting device is positioned above the eye level of an occupant seated in a seat inside the vehicle interior.

19. A vehicle interior lighting system comprising: a lighting device that is installed in a vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate a center console in the vehicle interior, the lighting device emitting the light sideways.

20. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 19, wherein the lighting device is installed in a console box.

21. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 20, wherein the console box has a box body with an opening that opens upward and an armrest that covers the opening of the box body, and the lighting device is installed on a front side wall of the box body.

22. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 21, wherein the armrest protrudes further forward than the front side wall of the box body.

23. A vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the lighting device comprises a light source and a light guide, and the light guide has a light incident surface onto which light emitted from the light source is incident, and a light exit surface from which light that enters from the light incident surface and is guided through the light guide exits.

24. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein the lighting device has a light source and an optical member that controls the distribution of light emitted from the light source.

25. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 24, wherein the optical member has a diffusion lens that increases the light distribution angle of the light emitted from the light source.

26. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 24, wherein the optical member is a diffusion panel that scatters and transmits light emitted from the light source.

27. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 19 to 26, wherein the center console is provided with at least one of a shift lever, a side brake operation unit, a car audio operation switch, a car navigation system operation switch, and a cup holder.

28. A vehicle interior lighting system comprising: a lighting device that is installed in a vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate a center console in the vehicle interior, the lighting device emits the light downward, the lighting device has a light emission surface that is an outer surface of the lighting device from which the light is emitted, and the light emission surface is not visible to an occupant sitting in a seat in the vehicle interior.

29. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 28, wherein the lighting device is installed in an overhead console.

30. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the light emitted from the lighting device is a pinhole spot light.

31. A vehicle interior lighting system comprising a lighting device that is installed in a vehicle interior and emits light to illuminate a floor within the vehicle interior, wherein, when the vehicle is viewed from above, the lighting device emits light so as to outline at least a portion of the contour of a seat portion of a seat within the vehicle interior.

32. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 31, wherein the lighting device does not irradiate light onto an upper surface of the seat.

33. A vehicle interior lighting system as described in claim 31 or 32, wherein the seat has a front end and a side end, and when the vehicle is viewed from above, the lighting device emits light so as to frame the entire outline of the front end and the entire outline of the side end.

34. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the lighting device is installed below the seat.

35. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the seat is a passenger seat.

36. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the seat is a rear seat.

37. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the seat is a front seat, and in a cross-sectional view of the vehicle, the lighting device is installed further forward than a line connecting the eyes of an occupant seated in the rear seat and the tip of the seat cushion of the rear seat.

38. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 37, wherein the lighting device is installed below the seat portion of the front seat.

39. A vehicle interior lighting system as claimed in any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein, in a cross-sectional view of the vehicle, the lighting device is installed at an angle of within ±20° with respect to a line connecting the eyes and toes of an occupant seated in the rear seat.

40. A vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 31 to 39, wherein the contrast ratio between the maximum illuminance of the seat and the maximum illuminance of the floor illuminated by the lighting device is (maximum illuminance of the floor:maximum illuminance of the seat) = 5:1 to 100:

1.

41. A vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 31 to 40, wherein, when the vehicle is viewed from above, the lighting device irradiates light to an area at least 15 cm or more away from the edge of the seat.

42. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 31 to 41, wherein the lighting device is a line light.

43. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 42, wherein the lighting device comprises a light source and a light guide rod into which light emitted from the light source enters, and the light guide rod has a side surface from which light guided through the light guide rod is emitted to the outside.

44. A vehicle interior lighting system comprising: a display installed in the vehicle interior and having a display unit; and a lighting device installed in the vehicle interior, wherein the lighting device emits light to illuminate a peripheral area located outside the display unit.

45. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 44, wherein the peripheral area is an area located outside the display.

46. ​​The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 45, wherein the display is provided upright on an upper surface of a dashboard, and the lighting device is provided behind the display.

47. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 46, wherein the lighting device emits light directly toward the back surface of the display.

48. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 47, wherein the dashboard is provided with a cover that covers the lighting device.

49. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 46, wherein the dashboard is provided with a reflector that reflects light emitted from the lighting device, and the light reflected by the reflector is irradiated onto the back surface of the display.

50. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 45, wherein the lighting device is installed above the display.

51. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 50, wherein the lighting device is installed in an overhead console.

52. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 50, wherein the lighting device is installed on a rearview mirror.

53. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 44 to 52, wherein the display has a frame area surrounding the display portion, and the peripheral area is the frame area.

54. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 53, wherein the display has a bezel provided in the frame area, and the lighting device is installed in the bezel.

55. A vehicle interior lighting system as claimed in claim 53 or 54, wherein the display is embedded in the dashboard.

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