Vehicle interior lighting system

Abstract

A vehicle interior lighting system (1) comprises: at least one lighting device (3) that is installed in a vehicle interior (2a) and emits illumination light; and a control unit (4) that performs dimming control of the at least one lighting device (3). The control unit (4) changes the lighting atmosphere in the vehicle interior (2a) by performing the dimming control of the at least one lighting device (3) at a predetermined timing set in advance in the period from when a driver enters the vehicle to when the driver exits the vehicle.

Description

Interior lighting system

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

[0002] Conventionally, as interior lighting for a vehicle, lighting devices installed inside the vehicle such as an automobile are known (Patent Document 1). As this type of interior lighting, a dome lamp installed on the ceiling of the vehicle is known.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-35768

[0004] In recent years, it has been required to create an atmosphere inside the vehicle. However, with conventional interior lighting, it is not possible to give a sense of production to passengers such as the driver from the time the driver gets in the vehicle until getting off.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and an object thereof is to provide an interior lighting system that can give a sense of production to passengers such as the driver from the time the driver gets in the vehicle until getting off.

[0006] To achieve the above object, one aspect of the interior lighting system according to the present invention is installed inside the vehicle of the vehicle, and at least one lighting device that irradiates lighting light, and a control unit that performs dimming control of the at least one lighting device. The control unit changes the atmosphere of the light inside the vehicle by performing dimming control of the at least one lighting device at a predetermined timing set in advance from the time the driver gets in the vehicle until getting off.

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to give a sense of production to passengers such as the driver from the time the driver gets in the vehicle until getting off.

[0008] Figure 1 is a top view of an automobile in the vehicle interior lighting system according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of an automobile in the vehicle interior lighting system according to an embodiment. Figure 3A is a diagram showing an example of a lighting control pattern for a room light installed in an automobile. Figure 3B is a diagram showing an example of a lighting control pattern for ceiling side lights and pillar lights installed in an automobile. Figure 3C is a diagram showing an example of a lighting control pattern for a center console light installed in an automobile. Figure 3D is a diagram showing an example of a lighting control pattern for a footlight installed in an automobile. Figure 3E is a diagram showing an example of a lighting control pattern for a door trim light installed in an automobile. Figure 4A is a diagram showing a modified example of the lighting control pattern for a room light installed in an automobile. Figure 4B is a diagram showing a modified example of the lighting control pattern for ceiling side lights and pillar lights installed in an automobile. Figure 4C is a diagram showing a modified example of the lighting control pattern for a center console light installed in an automobile.

[0009] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are all specific examples of the present invention. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions of components, and connection configurations shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Accordingly, among the components in the following embodiments, those not described in the independent claims representing the highest-level concept of the present invention will be described as optional components.

[0010] Each figure is a schematic diagram and not necessarily a strictly accurate representation. Therefore, the scale and other aspects may not necessarily be consistent across all figures. In each figure, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0011] In this specification, "forward" refers to the direction of travel when the vehicle is moving forward, and "rearward" refers to the direction of travel when the vehicle is moving backward. The right side when the vehicle is moving forward is referred to as "right direction," the left side when the vehicle is moving forward is referred to as "left direction," the ceiling side of the vehicle is referred to as "up" or "upper side," and the floor side of the vehicle is referred to as "down" or "lower side." In this specification, the terms "up" and "down" do not refer to the absolute upward direction (vertically upward) and downward direction (vertically downward) in terms of spatial perception, but may be used as terms defined by relative positional relationships.

[0012] (Embodiment) First, the configuration of the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to the embodiment will be described using Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a top view of the vehicle 2 in the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to the embodiment, and Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the vehicle 2.

[0013] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle interior lighting system 1 comprises a vehicle 2 and at least one lighting device 3 installed in the vehicle 2.

[0014] Automobile 2 is an example of a mobile body and comprises a vehicle having a passenger compartment 2a. The passenger compartment 2a in automobile 2 is composed of a plurality of interior lining members. The passenger compartment 2a has a ceiling 10, a floor 20, a pillar trim 30, and a door trim 40 as a plurality of interior lining members.

[0015] The vehicle of automobile 2 has doors 50. The doors 50 include a front door 51 and a rear door 52. By opening and closing the front door 51 or the rear door 52, occupants can enter the passenger compartment 2a or exit the passenger compartment 2a. Each of the front door 51 and the rear door 52 is provided with a window pane.

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the passenger compartment 2a is provided with seats 60 for the occupants. Specifically, the passenger compartment 2a is provided with multiple seats 60, namely front seats 61 and rear seats 62. The front seats 61 are the front seats located at the front of the passenger compartment 2a and consist of 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 seats 62 are the rear seats located at the rear of the passenger compartment 2a. The rear seats 62 can accommodate two or three occupants.

[0017] As shown in Figure 2, 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 it may be suspended from the roof 2b.

[0018] Floor 20 is the floor trim. Specifically, floor 20 is the floor carpet fixed to the frame that constitutes the body structure of automobile 2 (vehicle). Although not shown in the illustration, floor mats are laid on floor 20.

[0019] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pillar trim 30 is composed of multiple pillars. Specifically, the pillar trim 30 has an A-pillar 31, which is a front pillar located next to the windshield, and a B-pillar 32, which is a central pillar located between the front seat 61 and the rear seat 62. The pillar trim 30 may also have a C-pillar and a D-pillar located diagonally behind the rear seat 62.

[0020] As shown in Figure 2, the door trim 40 is an interior lining member that covers the door panels of the front door 51 and the rear door 52. The door trim 40 that constitutes the inner surface of the front door 51 and the rear door 52 has an uneven surface (uneven structure) formed on it. In other words, the uneven surface of the door trim 40 is formed on the inner surface of the door. One or more functional parts are provided on this uneven surface of the door trim 40.

[0021] Specifically, the recessed and recessed areas of the door trim 40 are provided with functional features, including an armrest, operating switches (operating buttons), a cup holder, a door handle, and a storage space. The operating switches are, for example, open / close switches for opening and closing the window glass. In addition, the front door 51 of the driver's seat 61a is provided with various switches other than the open / close switch as operating buttons.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, the automobile 2 has a center console 70. The center console 70 is located between the driver's seat 61a and the passenger seat 61b. As shown in Figure 2, the center console 70 extends from the instrument panel 80 located 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 left-right center portion of the instrument panel.

[0023] The center console 70 is equipped with a shift lever (select lever), operating switches, and a console box as molded components. The shift lever is operated by the driver to change the transmission while the vehicle 2 is moving forward or to move the vehicle 2 in reverse. The operating switches include a number of switches such as push buttons and dial knobs. Examples of the operating switches include a parking button to switch the parking brake (handbrake) on and off, a power button to switch the engine of the vehicle 2 on and off, a lighting button to switch the lighting device 3 on and off, a car audio operating switch to operate the car audio system, and a car navigation system operating switch to operate the car navigation system. The console box is a storage box with a lid and has a box body and an armrest. The center console 70 may also be equipped with other molded components such as a cup holder, a cigarette lighter socket, a power socket, and a box-shaped recess with an open top.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the instrument panel 80 is a panel at the front of the vehicle that extends from the driver's seat 61a to the passenger seat 61b. Instruments such as a speedometer are provided in the part of the instrument panel 80 facing the driver's seat 61a, and a storage box is provided in the part of the instrument panel 80 facing the passenger seat 61b. In addition, air conditioning control switches, audio control switches, and air conditioning vents are provided in the center of the instrument panel 80 in the width direction. A display or the like may also be provided in the center of the instrument panel 80 in the width direction.

[0025] Lighting device 3 is an interior lighting device (interior lighting) installed inside the vehicle compartment 2a. In this embodiment, multiple lighting devices 3 are installed inside the vehicle compartment 2a. The light emitted from each lighting device 3 illuminates the space inside the vehicle compartment 2a. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the light emitted from each lighting device 3 does not illuminate the entire space inside the vehicle compartment 2a, but rather illuminates a part of the space inside the vehicle compartment 2a. Therefore, in this embodiment, the entire space inside the vehicle compartment 2a is illuminated by multiple lighting devices 3.

[0026] In Figures 1 and 2, the black squares indicate the positions of each lighting device 3. The areas indicated by dotted hatching represent the areas within the vehicle compartment 2a that are illuminated by the light from each lighting device 3. The areas illuminated by the light from each lighting device 3 do not overlap, but may partially overlap.

[0027] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the multiple lighting devices 3 include a front room light 3a (front room lamp) and a rear room light 3b (rear room lamp), similar to those found in a typical automobile. In this embodiment, the multiple lighting devices 3 also include ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, footlights 3f (foot lamps), and door trim lights 3g. In other words, the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, footlights 3f, and door trim lights 3g are installed separately from the front room light 3a and rear room light 3b. To put it another way, the front room light 3a and rear room light 3b are installed separately from the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, footlights 3f, and door trim lights 3g. The front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, center console light 3e, foot light 3f, and door trim light 3g are installed in different locations within the passenger compartment 2a.

[0028] The front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b are installed on the ceiling 10 in the passenger compartment 2a. Specifically, the front room light 3a is installed in the center of the width direction of the ceiling 10 in front of the passenger compartment 2a, and the rear room light 3b is installed behind the front room light 3a, in the center of the width direction of the ceiling 10. In this embodiment, the front room light 3a is installed above the front end of the driver's seat 61a and the front end of the passenger seat 61b. In other words, there are two front room lights 3a. One rear room light 3b is installed above the center of the width direction of the rear seat 62. Note that there is not limited to one rear room light, and the installation location is not limited to the center of the width direction of the ceiling 10. For example, the rear room light 3b may be installed near the rear seat assist grips (right rear seat assist grip, left rear seat assist grip) provided at each of the width directions of the ceiling 10 above the rear door 52.

[0029] The front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b illuminate the interior of the passenger compartment 2a as room light. Specifically, one of the two front room lights 3a illuminates the front end of the driver's seat 61a towards the center console 70, and the other of the two front room lights 3a illuminates the front end of the passenger seat 61b towards the center console 70. The rear room light 3b illuminates the central part of the front end of the rear seat 62.

[0030] The front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b primarily illuminate the space inside the vehicle's interior 2a. Therefore, when one or both of the front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b are illuminated, the occupants of the vehicle 2 can perform tasks such as operating a smartphone or searching for items they have dropped inside the vehicle 2.

[0031] On the other hand, the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, footlights 3f, and door trim lights 3g primarily illuminate the space within the passenger compartment 2a. In other words, the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, footlights 3f, and door trim lights 3g illuminate the space around where they are installed.

[0032] Furthermore, the light illumination range of the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e can be controlled by a smartphone held by the occupant or by an operation switch located within the occupant's reach in the vehicle 2.

[0033] The ceiling side lights 3c are installed in the ceiling 10 of the passenger compartment 2a. Specifically, the ceiling side lights 3c are installed at the widthwise end of the ceiling 10 above the door 50. In this embodiment, multiple ceiling side lights 3c are installed in the ceiling 10. Specifically, the lighting devices 3 are installed in the ceiling 10 above each of the pair of front doors 51 and above each of the pair of rear doors 52. Therefore, as shown in Figure 1, the automobile 2 has four ceiling side lights 3c installed.

[0034] The ceiling side light 3c directs illumination light toward the door trim 40. Therefore, the light emitted from the ceiling side light 3c illuminates the door trim 40. In this embodiment, the ceiling side light 3c is a spotlight that illuminates illumination light to a specific narrow area. Therefore, the ceiling side light 3c directs illumination light in a spot manner toward the door trim 40. The beam angle of the illumination light emitted from the ceiling side light 3c is smaller than the beam angle of the illumination emitted from the rear room light 3b and the pillar light 3d.

[0035] The ceiling side light 3c illuminates the functional parts of the door trim 40 so that shadows are cast on the uneven surfaces of the door trim 40. In this embodiment, the ceiling side light 3c illuminates the functional parts of the door trim 40 as well as other parts. For example, the door trim 40 is provided with functional parts such as an armrest, an operating switch, a cup holder, and a door handle, and the ceiling side light 3c illuminates at least one of the armrest, operating switch, cup holder, and door handle. In this embodiment, the ceiling side light 3c illuminates multiple functional parts of the door trim 40 together. Specifically, the ceiling side light 3c illuminates each of the armrest, operating switch, cup holder, and door handle. The ceiling side light 3c may also illuminate each of the multiple functional parts of the door trim 40 in a spotlight.

[0036] In this way, the door trim 40 is illuminated by the light from the ceiling side light 3c, making the door trim 40 brightly lit. Furthermore, the light from the ceiling side light 3c illuminates the uneven surfaces of the door trim 40. This creates shadows in these uneven areas, resulting in a richer, more uplifting atmosphere, thus enhancing the quality of the interior space of the vehicle 2a. Additionally, the illumination of functional areas on the door trim 40 allows occupants to easily locate these areas.

[0037] The pillar lights 3d are installed on the pillar trim 30 in the passenger compartment 2a. Specifically, the pillar lights 3d are installed on the B-pillar 32. In this case, it is preferable that the pillar lights 3d be installed around the ceiling 10 on the B-pillar 32. That is, it is preferable that the pillar lights 3d be installed in the upper part of the B-pillar 32. Note that the pillar lights 3d are installed on each of the opposing pair of B-pillars 32. Therefore, as shown in Figure 1, the automobile 2 has two pillar lights 3d installed.

[0038] In this embodiment, the pillar light 3d is an uplight that emits illumination light toward the ceiling 10 inside the vehicle compartment 2a, and is installed with its light-emitting surface facing the ceiling 10. Therefore, the pillar light 3d emits illumination light that illuminates the ceiling 10 inside the vehicle compartment 2a. In other words, direct light from the pillar light 3d is emitted onto the ceiling 10. For this reason, the vehicle compartment 2a is not illuminated by direct light from the pillar light 3d, but by indirect light obtained by the light emitted from the pillar light 3d and reflected by the ceiling 10. As an example, the pillar light 3d is installed so that its light-emitting surface faces the curved surface at the widthwise end of the ceiling 10, and it emits illumination light toward the curved surface of the ceiling 10. Therefore, the illumination light from the pillar light 3d is reflected by the curved surface of the ceiling 10 and emitted into the vehicle compartment 2a as indirect light.

[0039] In this way, by using the pillar lights 3d to reflect the lighting light off the ceiling 10 and project it into the vehicle interior 2a, the space inside the vehicle interior 2a can be given a high-quality feel. Furthermore, a lighting space that feels bright and spacious can be obtained.

[0040] The center console light 3e is installed on the center console 70 inside the passenger compartment 2a. Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the center console light 3e is installed in the console box 71 provided on the center console 70.

[0041] The center console light 3e irradiates illumination light toward the center console 70. That is, the center console light 3e irradiates illumination light that illuminates the center console 70. Specifically, the center console light 3e irradiates light toward the side. For example, the center console light 3e irradiates light toward the front of the vehicle. As a result, a part of the center console 70 is illuminated by the illumination light irradiated from the center console light 3e. In this case, the operation switches provided on the center console 70 are illuminated by the illumination light of the center console light 3e. For example, the side brake operation part (parking button), the car audio operation switch, and the car navigation system operation switch are illuminated by the illumination light of the center console light 3e. Note that the illumination light of the center console light 3e may illuminate not only the operation switches but also other structures provided on the center console 70 such as the shift lever and the cup holder. Also, the illumination light of the center console light 3e may illuminate not only the center console 70 but also the lower part of the instrument panel 80.

[0042] Thus, by irradiating the center console 70 with illumination light by the center console light 3e, shadows are formed on the shaped objects such as the shift lever and the operation switches having irregularities, so that the shadow feeling of the shaped objects of the center console 70 can be emphasized. As a result, the shaped objects of the center console 70 can be made to stand out by the illumination light, and a rich sense of elevation due to the shadow of the center console 70 can be obtained.

[0043] The footlight 3f irradiates illumination light toward the floor 20 at the feet of the occupant. That is, the footlight 3f illuminates the floor 20 at the feet of the occupant. The footlight 3f is installed below the instrument panel 80. In the present embodiment, two footlights 3f are installed. One of the two footlights 3f is installed on the driver's seat 61a side and illuminates the floor 20 at the feet of the driver sitting on the driver's seat 61a. The other of the two footlights 3f is installed on the passenger seat 61b side and illuminates the floor 20 at the feet of the occupant sitting on the passenger seat 61b.

[0044] The door trim light 3g is installed on the door trim 40 and irradiates illumination light around the door trim 40. For example, the door trim light 3g is embedded in the upper end portion (near the window) of the door trim 40.

[0045] In the present embodiment, the door trim light 3g is installed on each of the two front doors 51 and the two rear doors 52. That is, four door trim lights 3g are installed.

[0046] Also, in the present embodiment, the door trim light 3g is a long-line illumination. Specifically, the door trim light 3g extends in the vehicle front-rear direction along the upper end portion of the door trim 40. Therefore, the illumination light emitted from the door trim light 3g is long-shaped.

[0047]

[0048] ​The illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is white light. That is, the illumination light emitted from the LED light source of each lighting device 3 is white light. In this embodiment, the color of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is, for example, incandescent color, but is not limited to this. The illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 may have a predetermined color temperature within the range of 2500K to 7000K. The color temperatures of the illumination light emitted from multiple lighting devices 3 may all be the same, or they may all be different. Also, some of the multiple lighting devices 3 may emit illumination light of the same color temperature, while others emit illumination light of different color temperatures. For example, some of the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, footlights 3f, and door trim lights 3g may emit incandescent light (for example, with a color temperature of 2500K to 3200K), while the remaining ones may emit daylight-colored light (for example, with a color temperature of 5700K to 7000K). Furthermore, the color of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is not limited to white, but may also be a color such as red, green, or blue.

[0049] Each lighting device 3 includes a light-emitting section having a light-emitting surface on its outer surface. The light-emitting section is a light-transmitting cover through which light emitted from the light source passes, an opening such as a slit through which light emitted from the light source exits, or the light source itself.

[0050] In this embodiment, the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, center console light 3e, foot light 3f, and door trim light 3g each have a translucent cover as an outer casing. In this case, the translucent cover becomes the light-emitting part, and the outer surface of the translucent cover becomes the light-emitting surface. The translucent covers of each of the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, center console light 3e, foot light 3f, and door trim light 3g are all exposed inside the vehicle compartment 2a.

[0051] However, the center console light 3e and footlight 3f are designed so that the light-emitting cover (light-emitting part) cannot be directly seen by an occupant seated in the seat 60 in the passenger compartment 2a. In other words, the center console light 3e and footlight 3f are glare-free lights configured so that the light-emitting part is not visible to the occupant.

[0052] Furthermore, with respect to the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, and door trim light 3g, occupants seated in the seats 60 inside the passenger compartment 2a can see the translucent cover (light-emitting part), which is the outer casing member.

[0053] On the other hand, the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d do not have a light-transmitting cover, and the structure is such that the light-emitting part is located in a recessed position within a cylindrical housing (e.g., a cone), and the light-emitting part (opening or light source) has an opening formed therein. As a result, the light-emitting part (opening or light source) of the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d cannot be directly seen by occupants seated in the seats 60 in the passenger compartment 2a. Therefore, the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d are glareless lights configured so that the light-emitting part is not visible to occupants. Specifically, the ceiling side light 3c is a glareless downlight, and the pillar light 3d is a glareless uplight.

[0054] Thus, with respect to the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, and footlights 3f, the illumination light does not directly enter the occupants' eyes, thus providing a comfortable lighting environment within the passenger compartment 2a. Furthermore, because the light does not directly enter the driver's eyes, the driver can operate the vehicle 2 safely.

[0055] Next, the control of the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3 will be described. The lighting device 3 is controlled by the control unit 4. The control unit 4 controls the dimming of at least one lighting device 3 at a predetermined timing set in advance. This makes it possible to change the lighting atmosphere inside the vehicle compartment 2a. In this embodiment, the control unit 4 changes the lighting atmosphere inside the vehicle compartment 2a by controlling the dimming of each of the multiple lighting devices 3 at a predetermined timing set in advance.

[0056] The control unit 4 includes, for example, a dimming circuit that controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3. As an example, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 using a PWM dimming method. Therefore, the LED light source of each lighting device 3 is controlled by a PWM dimming signal.

[0057] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the control unit 4 is provided in the automobile 2. The control unit 4 may be provided in any one of the multiple lighting devices 3, or in each of the multiple lighting devices 3.

[0058] Furthermore, the control unit 4 controls the dimming of each of the multiple lighting devices 3 according to a preset lighting control pattern. In other words, by controlling the dimming of the multiple lighting devices 3, a pre-set lighting effect is performed. In this case, the illumination light emitted from each of the multiple lighting devices 3 is controlled in conjunction. That is, the illumination light emitted from each of the multiple lighting devices 3 is controlled by the control unit 4 to be synchronized.

[0059] The following describes a lighting control pattern for controlling the dimming of multiple lighting devices 3 installed in the passenger compartment 2a of the automobile 2, using Figures 3A to 3E. Figures 3A to 3E show an example of a lighting control pattern for multiple lighting devices 3 installed in the automobile 2. The lighting control pattern shown in Figures 3A to 3E is a pattern that dynamically changes the brightness of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 over time.

[0060] In Figures 3A to 3E, the vertical axis represents the brightness of the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3, and the horizontal axis represents time. A brightness of 100% refers to the maximum brightness of the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3 (100% dimming), while a brightness of 0% refers to the state when the lighting device 3 is off. Furthermore, the brightness of the illumination light refers to the light output of the lighting device 3, and can be expressed, for example, as luminous flux (lumens: lm) or luminance (candela: cd).

[0061] Figure 3A shows the lighting control patterns for the front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b. As shown in Figure 3A, the brightness of the lighting light for the front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b is controlled by the same lighting control pattern.

[0062] Figure 3B shows the lighting control patterns for the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d. As shown in Figure 3B, the brightness of the lighting from the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d is controlled by the same lighting control pattern.

[0063] Figure 3C shows the lighting control pattern of the center console light 3e.

[0064] Figure 3D shows the lighting control pattern for footlight 3f.

[0065] Figure 3E shows the lighting control pattern of the door trim light 3g.

[0066] As shown in Figures 3A to 3E, each lighting device 3 is dimmed to change the brightness of the illumination light at a predetermined timing (trigger). In other words, the brightness of the illumination light from multiple lighting devices 3 changes according to the scene.

[0067] Specifically, first, when the driver is about to get into the car 2, the brightness of the illumination light emitted from the multiple lighting devices 3 changes. Specifically, the brightness of the illumination light from the multiple lighting devices 3 begins to change at a first timing A1, which is the timing when the key lock on the door 50 is released or when the door 50 is opened. As shown in Figures 3A to 3E, the time of the first timing A1 is time t1.

[0068] The door 50 can be unlocked (unlocked) using keyless entry with a smart key held by the occupant, or by inserting a physical key into the keyhole of the door 50. The smart key is an electronic key or a smartphone that functions as a smart key. In this case, the door 50 can be unlocked using the smart key by the occupant approaching the door 50 with the smart key or by touching the door handle.

[0069] As shown in Figures 3A to 3C, the multiple lighting devices 3 in which the brightness of the illumination light begins to change at the first timing A1 are the front room light 3a, the rear room light 3b, the ceiling side light 3c, the pillar light 3d, and the center console light 3e.

[0070] When the first timing A1 (time t1) occurs, the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, and center console light 3e are dimmed using the same lighting control pattern during the period from time t1 to time t2. In this case, the lighting control pattern is a dimming pattern that introduces at least two changes in the intensity of the illumination light, and includes a first period T1 in which the brightness of the illumination light is gradually increased, a second period T2 in which the brightness of the illumination light is gradually decreased after the first period T1, and a third period T3 in which the brightness of the illumination light is gradually increased after the second period T2. In this embodiment, the lighting control pattern further includes a fourth period T4 in which the brightness of the illumination light is gradually decreased after the third period T3, and a fifth period T5 in which the brightness of the illumination light is gradually increased after the fourth period T4.

[0071] During the first period T1, the brightness of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is gradually increased. Specifically, during the first period T1, the brightness of the illumination light is increased linearly until it reaches 100%. However, during the first period T1, the brightness of the illumination light may be increased until it reaches 50% instead of 100%.

[0072] In the second period T2, the brightness of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is gradually reduced after the first period T1. Specifically, in the second period T2, the brightness of the illumination light is linearly reduced from 100% to 25%. However, in the second period T2, the brightness of the illumination light may be reduced until the brightness reaches 0% (i.e., off) instead of 25%.

[0073] In the third period T3, the brightness of the illumination light emitted from each illumination device 3 is gradually increased after the second period T2. Specifically, in the third period T3, the brightness of the illumination light is linearly increased from 25% to 100%. However, in the third period T3, the brightness of the illumination light may be increased until it reaches 50% instead of 100%.

[0074] In the fourth period T4, the brightness of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3 is gradually reduced after the third period T3. Specifically, in the fourth period T4, the brightness of the illumination light is linearly reduced from 100% to 25%. However, in the fourth period T4, the brightness of the illumination light may be reduced not only to 25%, but also to 0% (i.e., off).

[0075] During the fifth period T5, the brightness of the illumination light emitted from each illumination device 3 is gradually increased after the fourth period T4. Specifically, during the fifth period T5, the brightness of the illumination light is linearly increased from 25% to 100%.

[0076] As an example, the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, and center console light 3e switch from the off state to the on state at time t1, and during the first period T1 (for example, the period from 0 seconds to 0.7 seconds), the brightness of the illumination is gradually increased until it reaches 100%. Then, during the second period T2 (for example, the period from 0.7 seconds to 2.8 seconds), the brightness of the illumination is gradually decreased until it reaches 25%. Then, during the third period T3 (for example, the period from 2.8 seconds to 3.2 seconds), the brightness of the illumination is gradually increased again until it reaches 100%. Then, during the fourth period T4 (for example, the period from 3.2 seconds to 5.3 seconds), the brightness of the illumination is gradually decreased again until it reaches 25%. Then, during the fifth period T5 (for example, the period from 5.3 seconds to 6 seconds), the brightness of the illumination is gradually increased again until it reaches 100%.

[0077] Thus, when the first timing A1 occurs, the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, and center console light 3e are dimmed so that the intensity of the illumination changes in a zigzag pattern over a short period of time. Specifically, the illumination of each lighting device 3 is given two changes in intensity. This makes it possible to effectively create a lighting effect inside the passenger compartment 2a, giving the occupants a sense of theatricality when they get into the car 2.

[0078] In this embodiment, when the first timing A1 occurs, the brightness of the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, and center console light 3e is changed linearly, but this is not limited to this. For example, the brightness of the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, and center console light 3e can be changed exponentially (for example, y = a * x ２．３ It may also be changed to the curve shown.

[0079] Subsequently, the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, and center console light 3e are controlled to maintain a state where the illumination brightness is 100% for a certain period of time. The time for which this state of 100% illumination brightness is maintained is, for example, the time it takes for an occupant to open the door 50, get in, and close the door 50. By keeping the time for which the illumination brightness is 100% short, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience caused by the bright conditions continuing for a long time after the occupant has entered the car 2, and also to avoid the interior of the car 2a being brightly lit for a long time at night, which would allow people from the outside to see inside the car 2a. As an example, the time for which this state of 100% illumination brightness is maintained is preferably 5 seconds or less. In this embodiment, the time for which the illumination brightness is 100% is maintained is set to 3 seconds.

[0080] Then, once a certain amount of time has passed since the illumination reached 100% brightness (i.e., at time t3), the brightness of the front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b will gradually decrease exponentially until they are completely turned off. In other words, the brightness of the front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b will gradually decrease as if fading out, and they will eventually turn off. At this time, the off-curve when the brightness of the front room light 3a and the rear room light 3b is gradually decreased is given by y = a・x ２．３ By using this curve, the brightness can be changed naturally, giving the occupants a sense of theatricality. The time from time t2 until the front room light 3a and rear room light 3b turn off (i.e., the time during which the brightness changes) is, for example, about 4 seconds, but is not limited to this.

[0081] On the other hand, the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e maintain a brightness of 100% even after time t2 until the next timing. In other words, the front room lights 3a and rear room lights 3b are turned off, while the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e remain on. This allows the lighting effect inside the vehicle compartment 2a to be maintained.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3D and 3E, at the first timing A1 (time t1), the brightness of the footlights 3f and door trim lights 3g also begins to change. Specifically, at time t1, the footlights 3f and door trim lights 3g switch from the off state to the on state and instantly reach 100% brightness. Then, similar to the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e, the footlights 3f and door trim lights 3g maintain a brightness of 100% from time t2 onward until the next timing.

[0083] In this way, the first timing A1 (time t1) is used as a trigger to illuminate all of the multiple lighting devices 3, including the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, center console light 3e, foot light 3f, and door trim light 3g, and each of these lighting devices 3 is controlled to dim as described above. In other words, each of the multiple lighting devices 3 installed in different locations is controlled to dim using a different lighting control pattern. This makes it possible to give the occupants a sense of atmosphere.

[0084] Furthermore, even after the driver and other occupants have entered the vehicle 2, the multiple lighting devices 3 are dimmed according to predetermined timings and lighting control patterns. Specifically, the multiple lighting devices 3, including the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, center console light 3e, foot light 3f, and door trim light 3g, are dimmed according to predetermined timings and lighting control patterns from the time the driver enters the vehicle 2 until they exit.

[0085] In this case, when the driver is driving the vehicle 2 (while it is in motion), the front room light 3a and rear room light 3b are not illuminated and remain off, but the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console light 3e, footlights 3f, and door trim lights 3g are illuminated and their brightness is controlled.

[0086] Specifically, the brightness of the multiple lighting devices 3 begins to change at a second timing A2, which is the timing when the driver gets into the car 2 and the ignition power is turned on (for example, when the engine starts and the car 2 is ready to drive). As shown in Figures 3A to 3E, the time of the second timing A2 is time t4.

[0087] At the second timing A2 (time t4), the multiple lighting devices 3 are dimmed using the first lighting control pattern PT1. As shown in Figures 3B and 3C, the multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed using the same first lighting control pattern PT1 include, as multiple first lighting devices, ceiling side lights 3c which are spotlights, pillar lights 3d which are uplights, and center console lights 3e.

[0088] The first lighting control pattern PT1 is a pattern in which the brightness of the lighting light is gradually reduced within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second) to the brightness of the normal driving mode. In this embodiment, the brightness of the lighting light of each lighting device 3 is controlled exponentially (for example, y = a・x) until the brightness goes from 100% to 50% in 0.5 seconds. ２．３ The curve is made weaker. As a result, the brightness of the light from each lighting device 3 gradually weakens as if fading out.

[0089] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3D, among the multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed at the second timing A2 (ignition power is turned on), there is a footlight 3f as a second lighting device that is dimmed using a second lighting control pattern PT2 different from the first lighting control pattern PT1. In other words, the footlight 3f is dimmed using the second lighting control pattern PT2. The second lighting control pattern PT2 is a pattern that gradually weakens the brightness of the illumination light within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second) to the brightness of the normal driving mode. In this embodiment, the brightness of the illumination light of the footlight 3f is weakened instantaneously (for example, in 0.1 seconds) until the brightness is reduced from 100% to 25%.

[0090] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3E, even at the second timing A2, the brightness of the door trim light 3g does not change. Specifically, the door trim light 3g maintains a state where the brightness of the illumination is 100%.

[0091] In this way, by using the second timing A2 (ignition power turned on) as a trigger to change the brightness of the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, and footlights 3f, it is possible to create a sense of atmosphere for the occupants. For example, it can enhance the occupants' excitement when starting to drive and help the driver switch their emotions before driving. Furthermore, the gradual change in brightness of the lights in the darkness can create a sense of elegance. In addition, by gradually dimming from a bright state, it is possible to allow the eyes to adjust to the ambient light when driving at night.

[0092] Next, as shown in Figures 3B and 3C, the brightness of the multiple lighting devices 3 changes at a third timing A3, which is the timing when the automobile 2 switches from normal driving mode to high-speed driving mode while it is in motion (i.e., driving). As shown in Figures 3B and 3C, the time of the third timing A3 is time t5.

[0093] At the third timing A3 (time t5), the multiple lighting devices 3 are dimmed according to the third lighting control pattern PT3. As shown in Figure 3C, the multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed according to the same third lighting control pattern PT3 include the center console light 3e as the third lighting device.

[0094] The third lighting control pattern PT3 is a pattern that reduces the brightness of the illumination light to a level lower than that of the normal driving mode within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second). In this embodiment, the brightness of the illumination light of the center console light 3e (third lighting device) is reduced exponentially (for example, y = a・x) until the brightness decreases from 50% to 10% in 0.5 seconds. ２．３ The curve is made weaker. As a result, the brightness of the center console light 3e gradually fades out.

[0095] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3B, among the multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed at the third timing A3 (when switching from normal driving mode to high-speed driving mode), there are a fourth lighting device that is dimmed using a fourth lighting control pattern PT4 different from the third lighting control pattern PT3, which includes a ceiling side light 3c that is a spotlight and a pillar light 3d that is an uplight.

[0096] The fourth lighting control pattern PT4 is a pattern that reduces the brightness of the illumination light to a level lower than that of the third lighting control pattern PT3 within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second). In other words, the fourth lighting control pattern PT4 is a pattern that turns off the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d (fourth lighting device). In this embodiment, the brightness of the illumination light from each of the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d (fourth lighting device) is reduced from 50% to 0%. Thus, when the third timing A3 occurs, the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d switch from the on state to the off state.

[0097] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3D and 3E, even at the third timing A3, the brightness of the footlight 3f and door trim light 3g does not change. Specifically, the footlight 3f maintains a brightness of 25%, and the door trim light 3g maintains a brightness of 100%.

[0098] In this way, by using the third timing A3 (when switching from normal driving mode to high-speed driving mode) as a trigger to change the brightness of the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e, a sense of theatricality can be given to the occupants. For example, the changing brightness of the lights in the darkness as described above can create a sense of elegance. It also allows the driver to recognize that the mode has switched from normal driving mode to high-speed driving mode. In this case, since the brightness of the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d is reduced, the driver can concentrate on driving in high-speed driving mode.

[0099] The "Normal Driving Mode" is suitable for driving on general roads or in urban areas, while the "High-Speed ​​Driving Mode" is suitable for driving on highways or in suburban areas. The High-Speed ​​Driving Mode is also called "Power Mode" or "Sport Mode."

[0100] Furthermore, switching from normal driving mode to high-speed driving mode may be performed by the driver operating a driving mode switching lever or driving mode switching switch provided on the vehicle 2, or it may be automatically determined by the control unit 4. When the control unit 4 automatically switches from normal driving mode to high-speed driving mode, it automatically determines whether the current location is on a general road or a highway using map information and GPS functionality, and switches from normal driving mode to high-speed driving mode if the current location is on a highway. Alternatively, it can automatically determine whether the current location is in an urban area or a suburban area using map information and GPS functionality, and switches from normal driving mode to high-speed driving mode if the current location is on a highway.

[0101] Although not shown in Figures 3A to 3E, the brightness of the multiple lighting devices 3 may change at the timing when the automobile 2 switches from high-speed driving mode to normal driving mode while driving. In this case, dimming control is performed by the fifth lighting control pattern PT5. The multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed by the same fifth lighting control pattern PT5 include ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e as multiple fifth lighting devices.

[0102] The fifth lighting control pattern PT5 is a pattern that increases the brightness of the illumination light to a level higher than that of the high-speed driving mode within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second). For example, the brightness of the illumination light of the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e (fifth lighting device) is increased exponentially (for example, y = a・x) until the brightness increases from 10% to 50% in 0.5 seconds. ２．３ The curve is made stronger. As a result, the brightness of the lighting from the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e gradually increases.

[0103] Furthermore, among the multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed at this timing (when switching from high-speed driving mode to normal driving mode), there is a footlight 3f which is a sixth lighting device that is dimmed using a sixth lighting control pattern PT6 that is different from the fifth lighting control pattern PT5. The sixth lighting control pattern PT6 is a pattern that sets the brightness of the lighting to the brightness of the normal driving mode within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second). For example, it sets the brightness of the lighting of the footlight 3f to 25%.

[0104] In this way, by using the timing of switching from high-speed driving mode to normal driving mode as a trigger, the brightness of the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, and footlights 3f can be changed, creating a sense of theatricality for the occupants. Furthermore, the occupants can recognize that the vehicle has switched from high-speed driving mode to normal driving mode. This allows, for example, the driver's awareness to shift to the awareness that they have finished driving on the highway and need to slow down.

[0105] Switching from high-speed driving mode to normal driving mode can be done by the driver operating the driving mode switching lever or driving mode switching switch as described above, or it can be done automatically by the control unit 4.

[0106] Next, as shown in Figures 3A to 3E, the brightness of the multiple lighting devices 3 changes at a fourth timing A4, which is the timing when the operation ends and the ignition power is turned off. As shown in Figures 3A to 3E, the time of the fourth timing A4 is time t6.

[0107] At the fourth timing A4 (time t6), the multiple lighting devices 3 are dimmed using the seventh lighting control pattern PT7. As shown in Figures 3B and 3C, the multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed using the same seventh lighting control pattern PT7 include, as multiple seventh lighting devices, ceiling side lights 3c which are spotlights, pillar lights 3d which are uplights, and center console lights 3e.

[0108] The seventh lighting control pattern PT7 is a pattern that sets the brightness of the illumination light to its maximum within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second). In this embodiment, the brightness of the illumination light from the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, and center console lights 3e (seventh lighting device) is set exponentially (for example, y = a・x) until the brightness reaches 100% in 0.5 seconds. ２．３ The curve is made stronger to achieve 100% brightness.

[0109] As shown in Figure 3B, the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d change their illumination level from 0% to 100%. Also, as shown in Figure 3C, the center console light 3e changes its illumination level from 25% to 100%.

[0110] Furthermore, the multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed at the fourth timing A4 (ignition power is off) include footlights 3f. As shown in Figure 3D, when the fourth timing A4 occurs, the footlights 3f are also set to their maximum brightness (100% brightness).

[0111] In this way, by using the fourth timing A4 (ignition power off) as a trigger to maximize the brightness of the ceiling side lights 3c, pillar lights 3d, center console lights 3e, and footlights 3f, a sense of theatricality can be created for the occupants. For example, it is possible to allow occupants to naturally prepare to disembark while retaining the feeling of having driven. It also allows the driver to recognize that the driving has ended.

[0112] As shown in Figure 3A, at the fourth timing A4 (time t6), the front room light 3a and rear room light 3b are also dimmed to their maximum brightness. Specifically, the front room light 3a and rear room light 3b change their illumination from 0% to 100%, similar to the ceiling side lights 3c and pillar lights 3d. Also, as shown in Figure 3D, at the fourth timing A4 (time t6), the footlight 3f gradually increases its illumination within a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second). Specifically, at the fourth timing A4 (time t6), the footlight 3f increases its illumination from 25% to 100% instantaneously (for example, in 0.1 seconds). Also, as shown in Figure 3E, at the fourth timing A4, the door trim light 3g is also at its maximum brightness. In this way, at the fourth timing A4, all lighting devices 3 in the passenger compartment 2a are dimmed to their maximum brightness. This allows occupants to safely disembark from vehicle 2, even at night.

[0113] Next, as shown in Figures 3A to 3E, at a fifth timing A5, which is when the door 50 of the automobile 2 (vehicle) is locked, the brightness of the multiple lighting devices 3 changes. As shown in Figures 3A to 3E, the time of the fifth timing A5 is time t7.

[0114] As shown in Figures 3A to 3E, when the fifth timing A5 (time t7) occurs, the multiple lighting devices 3 are dimmed according to the eighth lighting control pattern PT8. The eighth lighting control pattern PT8 is a pattern that gradually reduces the brightness of the lighting light within a predetermined time (for example, within 5 seconds) and turns off the multiple lighting devices 3. Specifically, the brightness of the lighting light is reduced exponentially over 3 seconds (for example, y = a・x ２．３ The light gradually weakens along the curve and then goes out. In other words, the brightness of the light gradually decreases as if fading out, and eventually the light goes out.

[0115] In this embodiment, the multiple lighting devices 3 that are dimmed by the same eighth lighting control pattern PT8 are all the lighting devices 3. Specifically, when the fifth timing A5 (time t7) arrives, the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, center console light 3e, foot light 3f, and door trim light 3g are dimmed by the eighth lighting control pattern PT8.

[0116] In this way, by using the fifth timing A5 (when the doors are locked) as a trigger to dim all the lighting devices 3 with the eighth lighting control pattern PT8, it is possible to give the occupants a sense of theatricality. For example, it can leave a lingering feeling of driving.

[0117] As described above, the vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to this embodiment comprises a lighting device 3 installed in the vehicle's interior 2a and a control unit 4 that controls the dimming of the lighting device 3. The control unit 4 changes the lighting atmosphere inside the vehicle's interior 2a by controlling the dimming of the lighting device 3 at predetermined timings set in advance, from the time the driver gets into the vehicle until they get out.

[0118] This allows for lighting effects inside the vehicle 2a at predetermined timings (scenes) from the moment the driver enters the vehicle until they exit. This provides the driver and other occupants with various theatrical experiences from the moment they enter the vehicle until they exit. Therefore, it can give occupants a sense of exhilaration and luxury when driving. In particular, it can give a sense of exhilaration when driving at night.

[0119] (Modification) The vehicle interior lighting system 1 according to the present invention has been described above based on embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments.

[0120] For example, in the above embodiment, the lighting control pattern when the key lock of the door 50 is released or the door 50 is opened was a pattern in which the brightness of the illumination light from the multiple lighting devices 3 was changed from strong → weak → strong → weak → strong, with the period from the first to the fifth period being one cycle (the ninth lighting control pattern), but it is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the lighting control pattern when the key lock of the door 50 is released or the door 50 is opened may be a pattern in which the brightness of the illumination light from the multiple lighting devices 3 is changed in multiple cycles, with the period from the first to the fifth period being one cycle. Specifically, as shown in Figures 4A to 4C, the front room light 3a, rear room light 3b, ceiling side light 3c, pillar light 3d, and center console light 3e can be set to a pattern in which two cycles are repeated, with the period from the first to the fifth period being one cycle. This allows the lighting effect to continue until the occupant gets into the car 2, even if the key lock is released at a distance from the car 2 and there is a delay between the key lock being released and the door 50 being opened. Alternatively, the lighting may change in one cycle (strong → weak → strong → weak → strong) when the key lock on the door 50 is released, and then change again in one cycle (strong → weak → strong → weak → strong) when the door 50 is opened.

[0121] Furthermore, although dimming control was performed on multiple lighting devices 3 in the above embodiment, this is not limited to this. For example, dimming control may be performed on only one lighting device 3.

[0122] Furthermore, although only dimming control was performed for each lighting device 3 in the above embodiment, the invention is not limited to this. For example, both dimming control and color temperature control may be performed for each lighting device 3. This allows not only to change the brightness of the illumination light emitted from each lighting device 3, but also to change the color temperature of the illumination light. This improves the lighting effect inside the vehicle compartment 2a. In addition, although the illumination light emitted from the lighting device 3 in the above embodiment was white light, the invention is not limited to this.

[0123] Furthermore, although the light source of the lighting device 3 in the above embodiment was an LED light source, it is not limited to this. For example, the light source of the lighting device 3 may be an existing light source such as a fluorescent lamp, xenon lamp, or halogen lamp. However, by using an LED light source for the light source of the lighting device 3, power consumption can be reduced, and the lighting device 3 can be lit with a DC power supply.

[0124] Furthermore, although the above embodiment uses an automobile 2 as an example of a mobile body, it is not limited to this. Specifically, the mobile body may include vehicles other than automobiles, such as railway cars, as long as it has a passenger compartment.

[0125] Furthermore, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to the above embodiments and modifications as conceived by those skilled in the art, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of the above embodiments and modifications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the present invention also includes arbitrary combinations of one or more components in each of the multiple claims described in the claims of this application. Furthermore, when the cited claims described in the claims of this application are made into a multi-claim or multi-multi-claim so as to cite any multiple claims (for example, when each claim is made into a multi-claim or multi-multi-claim so as to cite all of the higher-level claims), all forms obtained by combinations of all claims included in that multi-claim or multi-multi-claim are also included in the present invention.

[0126] 1. Vehicle interior lighting system 2a. Vehicle interior 3. Lighting device 3d. Pillar light (upper light) 3e. Center console light 3f. Footlight 3g. Door trim light (spotlight) 4. Control unit

Claims

1. An interior lighting system comprising: at least one lighting device installed inside the vehicle interior and emitting illumination light; and a control unit that controls the dimming of the at least one lighting device, wherein the control unit changes the lighting atmosphere inside the vehicle interior by controlling the dimming of the at least one lighting device at predetermined, pre-set timings from the time the driver gets into the vehicle until they get out.

2. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one lighting device is a plurality of lighting devices installed at different locations in the vehicle interior, and the control unit changes the lighting atmosphere in the vehicle interior by controlling the dimming of each of the plurality of lighting devices at predetermined timings.

3. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined timing is when the ignition power is turned on, the plurality of lighting devices include a plurality of first lighting devices that are dimmed using the same first lighting control pattern, and the first lighting control pattern is a pattern that gradually reduces the brightness of the lighting light over a predetermined period of time to the brightness of the normal driving mode.

4. The interior lighting system according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of first lighting devices include a center console light that emits illumination light toward the center console in the interior of the vehicle, a spotlight installed on the ceiling in the interior of the vehicle, and an uplight that emits illumination light toward the ceiling in the interior of the vehicle.

5. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of lighting devices include a second lighting device that is dimmed according to a second lighting control pattern different from the first lighting control pattern, the second lighting device being a footlight that illuminates the floor at the feet of the occupants, and the second lighting control pattern being a pattern that gradually reduces the brightness of the lighting light over a predetermined time to the brightness of the normal driving mode.

6. The predetermined timing is when switching from a normal driving mode to a high-speed driving mode, the plurality of lighting devices include a third lighting device that is dimmed using a third lighting control pattern, and a fourth lighting device that is dimmed using a fourth lighting control pattern different from the third lighting control pattern, the third lighting control pattern is a pattern that reduces the brightness of the lighting light to a level lower than the brightness in the normal driving mode within a predetermined time, and the fourth lighting control pattern is a pattern that reduces the brightness of the lighting light to a level lower than the brightness in the third lighting control pattern within a predetermined time, the vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 2.

7. The interior lighting system according to claim 6, wherein the third lighting device is a center console light that projects illumination light toward the center console in the interior of the vehicle, and the fourth lighting device includes a spotlight installed on the ceiling of the interior of the vehicle and an uplight that projects illumination light toward the ceiling of the interior of the vehicle.

8. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 7, wherein the fourth lighting control pattern is a pattern for turning off the fourth lighting device.

9. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined timing is when switching from high-speed driving mode to normal driving mode, the plurality of lighting devices include a plurality of fifth lighting devices that are dimmed using the same fifth lighting control pattern, and the fifth lighting control pattern is a pattern that increases the brightness of the lighting light to a level higher than the brightness in high-speed driving mode within a predetermined time.

10. The interior lighting system according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of fifth lighting devices include a center console light that emits illumination light toward the center console in the interior of the vehicle, a spotlight installed on the ceiling in the interior of the vehicle, and an uplight that emits illumination light toward the ceiling in the interior of the vehicle.

11. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of lighting devices include a sixth lighting device that is dimmed by a sixth lighting control pattern different from the fifth lighting control pattern, the sixth lighting device is a footlight that illuminates the floor at the feet of the occupants, and the sixth lighting control pattern is a pattern that brings the brightness of the lighting light to the brightness of the normal driving mode within a predetermined time.

12. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined timing is when the ignition power is turned off, and the plurality of lighting devices include a plurality of seven lighting devices that are dimmed using the same seventh lighting control pattern, and the seventh lighting control pattern is a pattern that brings the brightness of the lighting light to its maximum brightness within a predetermined time.

13. The interior lighting system according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of seven lighting devices include a center console light that emits illumination light toward the center console in the interior of the vehicle, a spotlight installed on the ceiling in the interior of the vehicle, and an uplight that emits illumination light toward the ceiling in the interior of the vehicle.

14. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 3 to 13, wherein the predetermined time is within 1 second.

15. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 3 to 13, wherein the predetermined timing is when the doors of the vehicle are locked, the plurality of lighting devices are dimmed using the same eighth lighting control pattern, and the eighth lighting control pattern is a pattern that gradually reduces the brightness of the lighting light over a predetermined time and turns off the plurality of lighting devices.

16. The vehicle interior lighting system according to any one of claims 3 to 13, wherein the predetermined timing is when the lock of the vehicle door is released or when the door is opened, the plurality of lighting devices are dimmed using the same 9th lighting control pattern, and the 9th lighting control pattern includes a first period in which the brightness of the lighting light is gradually increased, a second period in which the brightness of the lighting light is gradually decreased after the first period, and a third period in which the brightness of the lighting light is gradually increased after the second period.

17. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 16, wherein the ninth lighting control pattern further includes a fourth period after the third period for gradually decreasing the brightness of the illumination light, and a fifth period after the fourth period for gradually increasing the brightness of the illumination light.

18. The vehicle interior lighting system according to claim 17, wherein the ninth lighting control pattern is a pattern that repeats multiple cycles, with the periods from the first to the fifth periods being considered as one cycle.

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