JP2013012411A - Floodlight projector, and vehicular headlight - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a floodlight projector that can project light to a determined designated area even when one light-distribution part is out of order and miniaturizing as a whole can be attained.SOLUTION: A plurality of illumination units 2a to 2e of the floodlight projector 1 can project light to the designated area by dividing the designated area. A zone as a projected zone projected by light distribution from one illumination unit among the plurality of illumination units 2a to 2e and as a part of the designated area is overlapped with a projected zone projected by light distributed from either of the other illumination units.

Description

  The present invention relates to a light projecting device including a plurality of illumination units.

  Conventionally, halogen lamps are often used as headlamps (vehicle headlamps) for automobiles, but in recent years, headlamps using HID lamps (metal halide lamps) without filaments are increasing.

  In general, a headlamp is configured to be able to form a low beam light distribution pattern with a cut-off line at the upper edge, thereby ensuring forward visibility of the driver while preventing glare from oncoming drivers. It is configured to be able to.

  Recently, development of headlamps using light emitting diodes (LEDs) with low power consumption has been active. An example of a technique for realizing a vehicle headlamp using a white LED is a vehicle headlamp disclosed in Patent Document 1.

  Vehicle headlamps are required to satisfy safety standards such as being able to check obstacles at a predetermined distance from the vehicle so that the vehicle can travel safely even at night.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-231179 (published on August 19, 2004)

  For example, a vehicle headlamp needs to satisfy a predetermined light distribution characteristic standard. The light distribution characteristic standard of a passing headlamp for a vehicle defines a predetermined area to be projected on a plane separated from the vehicle by a predetermined distance, for example. In the configuration of Patent Document 1, when the passing headlamp fails, the traveling headlamp is substituted. However, if a traveling headlamp is used instead of the failed passing headlamp, it cannot be projected as a traveling headlamp. In addition, the configuration of Patent Document 1 projects a predetermined area in which a light distribution characteristic standard is determined by one passing headlamp, and when the failure occurs, the one passing headlamp is used as one auxiliary (for traveling). A headlamp can be used instead. Therefore, the area where one passing headlamp projects is large, and the passing headlamp itself including the reflector is also large. Also, the auxiliary headlamps that substitute for the passing headlamps inevitably become large in size, and a large space is required for arranging these headlamps. For example, if auxiliary headlamps are provided separately from the traveling headlamps in order to ensure the function of the traveling headlamps, a large space is required to arrange them. As a result, the design is also limited.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and the object thereof is to project a predetermined area even when one light distribution unit fails, and as a whole. The object is to realize a light-projecting device that can be miniaturized.

  The light projecting device of the present invention is a light projecting device that projects a predetermined area, and includes a plurality of irradiation units and a plurality of light distribution units provided corresponding to the respective irradiation units. Distributes the light emitted from the corresponding irradiation unit in a predetermined direction, and the plurality of light distribution units divide and project the predetermined region, and the plurality of light distribution units The region that is the light projection region by the light distribution from the first light distribution unit and the predetermined region overlaps the light projection region by the light distribution from any other light distribution unit. It is characterized by.

  According to the above configuration, the predetermined area is divided and projected by the plurality of light distribution units. Therefore, each light distribution part can be made small, and it becomes easy to adjust the light quantity projected for every position, and a desired light distribution characteristic can be obtained efficiently. In addition, the region that is the light projection region by the light distribution from the first light distribution unit and the predetermined region overlaps the light projection region by the light distribution from any other light distribution unit. Therefore, even if a failure or the like occurs and light distribution from the first light distribution unit is not performed, it is possible to project the predetermined area and secure a desired light projection area. it can.

  Further, the plurality of light distribution units may include a plurality of the first light distribution units.

  Further, the light projecting device may be configured such that the center position of the light projecting region by the light distribution from the first light distribution unit is included in the light projecting region by the light distribution from the other light distribution unit. Good.

  Further, in the light projecting device, the predetermined area is any one of the light projecting areas obtained by light distribution from a plurality of light distribution units other than the first light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units. The structure contained in may be sufficient.

  The light projecting device may be configured such that the predetermined area is divided and projected in the horizontal direction and / or the vertical direction by the plurality of light distribution units.

  The light projecting device of the present invention is a light projecting device that projects a predetermined area, and is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of irradiation units and each irradiation unit, and light emitted from the corresponding irradiation unit. A plurality of light distribution units that distribute light in a predetermined direction, and a light projection change unit that can change a light projection region by light distribution from the first light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units, When the light distribution from the second light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units is normally performed, the plurality of light distribution units including the first light distribution unit and the second light distribution unit are: The predetermined region is divided and projected, and when the light distribution from the second light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units is not normally performed, the light projection change unit performs the first light distribution. It is characterized in that at least a part of the light projection area of the second light distribution section is projected by changing the light projection area of one light distribution section.

  According to the above configuration, the predetermined area is divided and projected by the plurality of light distribution units. Therefore, each light distribution part can be made small, it becomes easy to adjust the light quantity projected for every position, and a desired light distribution characteristic can be obtained efficiently. Moreover, the light projection area | region by the light distribution from a 1st light distribution part can be changed by the light projection change part. Therefore, even if a failure or the like occurs and the light distribution from the second light distribution unit is not normally performed, the light projection area of the first light distribution unit is changed and the light projection of the second light distribution unit is performed. It is possible to project the predetermined area by supplementing the light distribution to the area, and it is possible to secure a desired light projecting area.

  In addition, the light projecting device includes a detection unit that detects whether or not the light distribution from the second light distribution unit is normally performed, and the detection unit emits light from the second light distribution unit. If the light projection change unit detects that the light distribution is not performed normally, the light projection change unit projects the light from the first light distribution unit so that at least a part of the light projection region of the second light distribution unit is projected. The structure which changes an area | region may be sufficient.

  The light projection change unit may be configured to change the light projection region by rotating or moving the first light distribution unit.

  The light projecting device includes a light emitting unit that emits light, and the irradiation unit receives light emitted from the light emitting unit and irradiates the light distribution unit with light. The light projection changing unit is configured to change the light projecting region of the first light distribution unit by changing a light irradiation position from the light emitting unit to the irradiation unit corresponding to the first light distribution unit. It may be.

  The light projecting device includes a light emitting unit that emits light, and the irradiation unit receives light emitted from the light emitting unit and irradiates the light distribution unit with light. The light projection changing unit is configured to change the light projection region of the first light distribution unit by expanding an irradiation range of light from the light emitting unit in the irradiation unit corresponding to the first light distribution unit. It may be.

  In addition, the first light distribution unit is disposed adjacent to the second light distribution unit, and when the light distribution from the second light distribution unit is not normally performed, the light projection change unit Is a configuration in which at least a part of the light projecting region of the second light distribution unit is projected by changing the light projecting region of the one or more light distribution units adjacent to the second light distribution unit. It may be.

  The light projecting device of the present invention is a light projecting device that projects a predetermined area, and is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of irradiation units and each irradiation unit, and light emitted from the corresponding irradiation unit. Whether or not light distribution is normally performed by a plurality of light distribution units that distribute light in a predetermined direction and a plurality of light distribution units other than the first light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units When the light distribution of the plurality of other light distribution units excluding the first light distribution unit is normally performed, the first light distribution unit does not project light, The other light distribution units divide and project the predetermined area, and the detection unit performs normal light distribution from any one of the other light distribution units. When it is detected that the light distribution is not performed, the first light distribution unit projects at least a part of a light projection region of the light distribution unit where light distribution is not normally performed. .

  According to the above configuration, the predetermined area is divided and projected by the plurality of light distribution units (excluding the first light distribution unit). Therefore, each light distribution part can be made small, it becomes easy to adjust the light quantity projected for every position, and a desired light distribution characteristic can be obtained efficiently. In addition, when there is an abnormality in any of the light distribution units, the first light distribution unit projects a light projection area of the abnormal light distribution unit. Therefore, for example, even when a plurality of light distribution units other than the normally used first light distribution unit or a corresponding irradiation unit fails, the first light distribution unit performs light projection instead. Therefore, a desired light projection area can be secured.

  The light projecting device may include a light emitting unit that emits excitation light, and the irradiating unit may emit light by excitation light emitted from the excitation light emitting unit.

  The light emitting unit may emit a laser, and the irradiation unit may be configured to emit light when excited by the laser.

  The light projecting device may include a light emitting unit that emits light, and the irradiation unit may scatter light emitted from the light emitting unit.

  The light emitting unit may emit a laser, and the irradiation unit may scatter the laser.

  A vehicle headlamp according to the present invention includes the light projecting device, and a light distribution characteristic standard for a vehicle headlamp is defined in the predetermined region. The configuration may be such that the predetermined area is projected so as to satisfy the light distribution characteristic standard.

  The light projecting device of the present invention is a light projecting device that projects a predetermined area, and includes a plurality of irradiation units and a plurality of light distribution units provided corresponding to the respective irradiation units. Distributes the light emitted from the corresponding irradiation unit in a predetermined direction, and the plurality of light distribution units divide and project the predetermined region, and the plurality of light distribution units The region that is the light projection region by the light distribution from the first light distribution unit and the predetermined region overlaps the light projection region by the light distribution from any other light distribution unit. It is characterized by.

  Therefore, each light distribution part can be made small, and it becomes easy to adjust the light quantity projected for every position, and a desired light distribution characteristic can be obtained efficiently. In addition, even when a failure or the like occurs and light distribution from the first light distribution unit is not performed, it is possible to project the predetermined area and secure a desired light projection area. it can.

  Another light projecting device of the present invention is a light projecting device that projects a predetermined region, and is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of irradiation units and each irradiation unit, and each of the irradiation units is irradiated from the corresponding irradiation unit. A plurality of light distribution units for distributing light in a predetermined direction, and a light projection change unit for changing a light projection region by light distribution from the first light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units. The plurality of light distribution units including the first light distribution unit and the second light distribution unit when the light distribution from the second light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units is normally performed. Is to divide and project the predetermined region, and when the light distribution from the second light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units is not normally performed, By changing the light projection area of the first light distribution section, at least a part of the light projection area of the second light distribution section is projected. .

  Therefore, each light distribution part can be made small, it becomes easy to adjust the light quantity projected for every position, and a desired light distribution characteristic can be obtained efficiently. Further, even if a failure or the like occurs and the light distribution from the second light distribution unit is not normally performed, the light projection area of the first light distribution unit is changed and the light distribution of the second light distribution unit is performed. It is possible to project the predetermined area by supplementing the light distribution to the area, and it is possible to secure a desired light projecting area.

  Still another light projecting device of the present invention is a light projecting device that projects a predetermined region, and is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of irradiation units and each irradiation unit, and each of the irradiation units corresponds to the irradiation unit. The light distribution of the plurality of light distribution units that distribute the emitted light in a predetermined direction and the plurality of light distribution units other than the first light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units is normally performed. The first light distribution unit is configured to project light when the light distribution of the plurality of other light distribution units other than the first light distribution unit is normally performed. The other plurality of light distribution units divide and project the predetermined region, and the detection unit emits light from any one of the other plurality of light distribution units. When it is detected that the light distribution is not performed normally, the first light distribution unit projects at least a part of the light projection region of the light distribution unit where light distribution is not performed normally. It is set to.

  Therefore, each light distribution part can be made small, it becomes easy to adjust the light quantity projected for every position, and a desired light distribution characteristic can be obtained efficiently. Further, for example, even when a plurality of light distribution units other than the normally used first light distribution unit or a corresponding irradiation unit fails, the first light distribution unit performs light projection instead. Therefore, a desired light projection area can be secured.

It is a top view which shows the structure of the light projector which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of the image of the light which the said light projection apparatus projects on a reference plane. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically the structure of the illumination unit of the said light projector. It is a figure which shows the example of the image of the light which the said light projector projects in the reference plane when a part of lighting unit fails. It is sectional drawing which shows roughly the structure of the modification of an illumination unit. It is a top view which shows the structure of the light projector which concerns on other embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of the image of the light which the said light projection apparatus projects on a reference plane. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically the structure of the illumination unit of the said light projector. It is a top view which shows the light distribution direction of the other lighting unit when a part of lighting unit fails. It is a figure which shows the image of the light which the said light projection apparatus projects in a reference plane at the time of a one part lighting unit failure. It is sectional drawing which shows the example of the illumination unit which can change the irradiation position of the laser on a light emission part. It is a top view which shows the structure of a light projection apparatus provided with the some illumination unit which can expand a light projection area | region. It is a top view which shows the structure of the light projection apparatus of further another embodiment of this invention. It is a top view which shows the light distribution direction of each lighting unit when a part of lighting unit fails. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the illumination unit for assistance roughly. It is sectional drawing which shows roughly the structure of the illumination unit of a modification. It is sectional drawing which shows roughly the structure of the illumination unit of a modification.

[Embodiment 1]
An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Here, as an example of the light projecting device of the present invention, a light projecting device 1 that is a traveling headlamp for an automobile will be described as an example. However, the floodlight device of the present invention may be realized not only as a driving headlamp for automobiles but also as a passing headlamp, or as a headlamp (vehicle headlamp) for vehicles other than automobiles. It may be realized. Furthermore, it may be realized as a headlamp of other light projecting devices, for example, moving objects other than vehicles (for example, humans, ships, aircraft, submersibles, rockets, etc.), searchlights, projectors, indoor lighting equipment ( Downlight, stand lamp, etc.).

  FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a configuration of a light projecting device 1 according to the present embodiment. The light projecting device 1 includes a plurality of (here, five) illumination units 2a to 2e. In the present embodiment, the light projecting device 1 is mounted on an automobile (not shown) as a traveling headlamp. In FIG. 1, the optical axis (center axis) of light distributed from each of the illumination units 2a to 2e is indicated by a one-dot chain line. In addition, the range of light distributed from each of the lighting units 2a to 2e (solid angle in which the light bundle falls) is indicated by a broken line. Here, the light projecting device 1 is mounted on an automobile so that the five illumination units 2a to 2e are horizontally arranged. With reference to FIG. 3, the detailed structure of the illumination unit 2a is demonstrated. The illumination units 2a to 2e have the same configuration.

(Configuration of lighting unit)
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the illumination unit 2a of the present embodiment. The illumination unit 2 a includes a laser element (excitation light emitting unit) 3, a condenser lens 4, a light emitting unit (irradiating unit) 5, and a reflector (light distribution unit) 6.

  The laser element 3 is a semiconductor laser element that emits laser light. The laser light emitted from the laser element 3 acts as excitation light for exciting the light emitting unit 5. A plurality of laser elements 3 may be provided for one illumination unit. In this case, laser light as excitation light is oscillated from each of the plurality of laser elements 3. Only one laser element 3 may be used in one illumination unit. However, when a plurality of laser elements 3 are used, high-power laser light can be easily obtained. Further, for example, a plurality of illumination units 2a to 2e may use a common laser element. In this case, the laser light emitted from the common laser element may be divided and distributed to the illumination units 2a to 2e.

  The laser element 3 may have one light emitting point on one chip, or may have a plurality of light emitting points on one chip. Here, the wavelength of the laser light of the laser element 3 is 405 nm (blue-violet), but is not limited thereto, and can be appropriately selected according to the type of phosphor included in the light emitting unit 5.

A light emitting diode (LED) can be used as the excitation light emitting unit instead of the laser element. Note that as the luminance (cd / m ² ) of the light emitting unit excited by the excitation light source emitted from the excitation light emitting unit increases, the overall size of the light projecting device can be reduced. For this reason, it is preferable to use a laser element having higher luminance than the light emitting diode (LED) as the excitation light emitting portion because the luminance of the light emitting portion becomes higher.

  The condensing lens 4 is a lens for condensing the laser light emitted from the laser element 3 on the light emitting unit 5. Here, although the condensing lens 4 consists of one lens, the condensing lens 4 may be comprised from the some lens. The focused spot of the laser beam is condensed by the condenser lens 4 so as to be part of the surface of the light emitting unit 5. By placing the laser light spot near the center of the surface of the light emitting unit 5, the light emitted from the light emitting unit 5 is emitted from the surface of the light emitting unit 5 to the apex side of the reflector 6.

The light emitting unit 5 includes a phosphor that absorbs laser light as excitation light and emits light. The light emitting section 5 is manufactured by applying a mixture of sealing resin and phosphor powder to a base metal member. Specifically, the light emitting unit 5 includes three kinds of phosphors of RGB so as to emit light in white. For example, the red phosphor is CaAlSiN ₃ : Eu, the green phosphor is β-SiAlON: Eu, and the blue phosphor is (BaSr) MgAl ₁₀ O ₁₇ : Eu. In addition, it is prescribed | regulated that the headlight of a motor vehicle is white with illumination light having a predetermined range of chromaticity. For this reason, the light emitting unit 5 includes a phosphor selected so that the light emission is white.

  The light emitting unit 5 is fixed to one end of a support column 7 made of metal, and is disposed at a substantially focal position of the reflector 6 having a parabolic cross section. For this reason, the light path which the light irradiated to the reflector 6 from the light emission part 5 reflects by the reflective curved surface of the reflector 6 is controlled. The other end of the column 7 penetrates the reflector and is fixed to a member (not shown). The heat of the light emitting portion 5 that generates heat by the laser light is transferred to the metal support 7 and efficiently exhausted. In addition, the irradiation range of the illumination unit 2a can be intentionally expanded by arranging the light emitting unit 5 at a position shifted from the focal position.

  The light emitting unit 5 may be one in which a phosphor is dispersed in a sealing agent such as a resin, or one obtained by solidifying a phosphor. As the sealing material of the light emitting unit 5, for example, a resin material such as a glass material (inorganic glass or organic-inorganic hybrid glass) or silicone resin may be used. Low melting glass may be used as the glass material. The sealing material is preferably highly transparent, and when the laser beam has a high output, a material having high heat resistance is preferable.

  Furthermore, the phosphor of the light emitting unit 5 is not limited to the above, and for example, an oxynitride phosphor, a nitride phosphor, or a group III-V compound semiconductor nanoparticle phosphor can be used. Further, if used in a projector that is not a headlight for an automobile, the color emitted from the light emitting unit 5 is not limited to white, and may be other colors such as blue and red.

  Moreover, the support | pillar 7 is not limited to a metal, A material with good heat conductivity, for example, sapphire etc., may be used. If a transparent material is used, the light controlled by the reflector 6 is not blocked and light is effectively used. Can be used.

  In addition, a light source such as a high-intensity light emitting diode may be used as the light emitting unit. In this case, the laser element 3 and the condenser lens 4 that emit the excitation light are not necessary.

  The reflector 6 reflects the light emitted from the light emitting unit 5 and distributes the light in a predetermined direction. The light distributed by the reflector 6 forms a light bundle (illumination light) that travels within a predetermined solid angle. The reflector 6 may be a member such as a resin in which a metal thin film is formed on the inner surface as a reflecting material, or may be a metal member.

  The reflection surface (inner surface) of the reflector 6 includes at least a part of a curved surface (parabolic curved surface) obtained by rotating the parabola around the parabolic symmetry axis. Here, the opening 6a (exit of illumination light) of the reflector 6 is circular. The light from the light emitting unit 5 arranged at a substantially focal position forms a light bundle near parallel by the reflector 6 having a parabolic reflecting surface, and is distributed forward from the opening 6a. Thereby, the light from the light emission part 5 can be efficiently distributed within a narrow solid angle, and as a result, the utilization efficiency of light emission can be improved.

  Here, the light emitting unit 5 is disposed on the inner side (the apex side of the reflecting surface of the reflector 6) than the opening 6 a of the reflector 6. By doing in this way, the light emitted by the light emission (fluorescence) from the light emitting unit 5 is always reflected by the reflector 6 and then emitted from the opening 6a to the outside of the illumination unit 2a. That is, since the light emitting point in the light emitting unit 5 cannot be directly seen from the outside, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of illusion due to the fact that only one point is bright when the illumination unit 2a is viewed from the outside. Even when laser light that is uneasy about safety for direct viewing is used as excitation light, a configuration with high safety can be provided by using this configuration.

  The laser element 3 and the condensing lens 4 are disposed outside the reflector 6, and the reflector 6 is provided with a window portion 6 b that transmits or passes the laser light. This window portion 6b may be a through hole or may include a transparent member that can transmit laser light. For example, a transparent plate provided with a filter that transmits laser light and reflects white light (fluorescence of the light emitting portion 5) may be provided as the window portion 6b. According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the fluorescence emitted from the light emitting unit 5 from leaking from the window 6b.

  In addition, you may include the part which is not a parabolic curved surface in a part of reflector. In addition, the shape of the reflecting surface of the reflector is not limited to a parabolic surface, and may be an elliptical surface, a hemispherical surface, a free curved surface, an aspherical surface, or the like.

  Although not shown, the illumination unit 2a may include a lens or the like for correcting the light distribution of the light beam at the opening of the reflector.

(Light distribution characteristics of the projector 1)
With reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the light distribution characteristic of the light projector 1 is demonstrated. The light distribution characteristic standard indicating the luminous intensity, the direction of the optical axis, and / or the distribution of light distribution is defined for the headlamp for automobiles. Since the light distribution characteristic standard differs depending on the country or the like, here, a description will be given using a simplified example of the light distribution characteristic standard. For example, the light distribution characteristic standard defines the light distribution characteristic in a plane perpendicular to the traveling direction at a predetermined distance forward from the headlamp or the automobile. Here, the perpendicular plane is referred to as a reference plane 20.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an image of light projected by the light projecting device 1 on the reference plane 20. Here, the light distribution characteristic reference defines a rectangular area (specified area) 10 as a predetermined area that requires light distribution characteristics on the reference plane 20, for example, light projection. That is, when the light projecting device 1 is turned on, at least the defined area 10 must always be illuminated with a certain level of illuminance in order to confirm the front.

  On the reference plane 20, the five illumination units 2a to 2e of the light projecting device 1 project different light projecting areas 12a to 12e, respectively. Each light projection area | region 12a-12e may differ in a shape and a magnitude | size. The light projecting areas 12a to 12e partially overlap with the light projecting areas adjacent to each other. For example, the light projection area 12a corresponding to the illumination unit 2a has an area overlapping the light projection area 12b corresponding to the adjacent illumination unit 2b. Moreover, the light projection area | region 12b corresponding to the illumination unit 2b has an area | region which overlaps with the light projection area | region 12c corresponding to the adjacent illumination unit 2c. Each lighting unit 2a-2e is arrange | positioned so that the center position of each light projection area | region may be contained in another adjacent light projection area | region.

  The prescribed area 10 to be illuminated is divided and projected by the respective lighting units 2a to 2e. In FIG. 2, a line that divides the specified region 10 into four partial regions 11 a to 11 d is indicated by a dotted line. The partial areas 11a to 11d are obtained by dividing the specified area 10 for convenience in accordance with the overlap of the light projecting areas 12a to 12e. The partial area 11a in the defined area 10 is included in the light projecting area 12a and the light projecting area 12b. The partial area 11b in the defined area 10 is included in the light projecting area 12b and the light projecting area 12c. The partial area 11c in the defined area 10 is included in the light projecting area 12c and the light projecting area 12d. The partial area 11d in the defined area 10 is included in the light projecting area 12d and the light projecting area 12e. Each of the partial areas 11a to 11d of the defined area 10 is included in a light projecting area corresponding to at least two illumination units. That is, an arbitrary position of the defined area 10 is projected by at least two illumination units.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an image of light projected by the light projecting device 1 on the reference plane 20 when the illumination unit 2c fails. The light distribution from the illumination unit may be weakened or not distributed due to the failure of the laser element 3, the deterioration of the light emitting unit 5, or the damage of the reflector 6. When, for example, one lighting unit 2c out of the plurality of lighting units 2a to 2e fails, there is no light distribution from the lighting unit 2c to the light projecting region 12c in FIG. 2, and the light projection by the light projecting device 1 is shown in FIG. It becomes like this. Even when the lighting unit 2c fails, the entire specified area 10 is included in any one of the light projecting areas 12a, 12b, 12d, and 12e corresponding to the other lighting units 2a, 2b, 2d, and 2e. For example, the partial area 11b in the defined area 10 is projected by the illumination unit 2b corresponding to at least the light projection area 12b, and the partial area 11c is projected by the illumination unit 2d corresponding to at least the light projection area 12d. Note that, in the light projecting device 1 of the present embodiment, even if any one illumination unit fails, the entire prescribed region 10 is projected by another illumination unit.

  Therefore, even when one lighting unit 2c breaks down, the other lighting units 2a, 2b, 2d, and 2e divide the entire prescribed area 10 so that the entire prescribed area 10 to be illuminated is projected. To light up. Therefore, even if a part of the lighting unit of the floodlight device 1 mounted as a headlight of a car at the time of traveling at night breaks down, the other lighting unit configured so that the floodlight areas overlap with each other is predetermined. The entire specified area 10 is projected. Therefore, even when a part of the lighting units of the light projecting device 1 breaks down, it is possible to maintain a light distribution characteristic that allows safe traveling and to continue traveling safely. Therefore, it is possible to continue traveling safely without replacing parts or the like. Further, even if the user does not notice the failure of some lighting units, it is possible to prevent the headlight from being turned off at night.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, the light projector 1 divides | segments the prescription | regulation area | region 10 and light-projects by several illumination unit 2a-2e. Thereby, it is possible to easily adjust the illuminance for each position corresponding to each of the illumination units 2a to 2e. For example, when it is desired to illuminate a position near the center of the defined area 10 brighter and a position near the left and right ends of the defined area 10 a little darker, the illuminance of the corresponding projected area is adjusted by adjusting the individual luminous intensity of the illumination units 2a to 2e. Can be adjusted. Therefore, energy efficiency can be improved and a desired light distribution can be realized.

  Note that it is difficult to realize a complicated light distribution with a conventional light projecting device that performs light projection with a single lighting unit. In addition, in order to realize a desired light distribution, light is transmitted using a shielding plate or the like. Need to be shielded. Shielding the light causes a decrease in energy efficiency.

  Further, even when light is projected by a plurality of lighting units, the light projecting areas of the respective lighting units are overlapped, and the light projecting areas of the respective lighting units are configured to include the entire prescribed area 10. It is difficult to realize a complicated light distribution (the illuminance distribution in the defined area 10) in the defined area 10. Further, when each illumination unit projects the entire defined area 10 on the reference plane 20 separated by a predetermined distance without dividing the defined area 10 (the respective projected areas greatly overlap each other), the reference plane 20 The light distribution of each lighting unit may spread too far away. When the entire prescribed area 10 to be illuminated on the reference plane is projected from one lighting unit (one reflector), the solid angle of light distribution from the lighting unit becomes large. Then, at a position further away from the reference plane, the light distribution from the illumination unit spreads over a wide range and the illuminance decreases. The standard of light distribution characteristics of an automobile is often defined on a reference plane that is relatively close to, for example, 10 m or 25 m, and it is necessary to project a farther position such as 40 m or 100 m in actual driving. .

  Since the light projecting device 1 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of illumination units 2a to 2e that divide and project the prescribed region 10, it is possible to easily realize a light distribution with different illuminances for each position. The prescribed area 10 is divided and projected by a plurality of lighting units 2a to 2e. Therefore, each lighting unit 2a-2e can be reduced in size. In addition, unlike the case of substituting a failed lamp by moving an auxiliary lamp, etc., there is no need to provide a moving part in the lighting unit, and the predetermined light distribution characteristic standard is satisfied even if a failure is not detected by a failure detection device or the like. And can illuminate the front. Moreover, since the some illumination unit 2a-2e divides | segments the prescription | regulation area | region 10 and projects light, the solid angle of the light distribution from each illumination unit 2a-2e can be made small. Therefore, the light projecting device 1 of the present embodiment can project light with high illuminance even at a position far from the reference plane 20.

  In addition, the light projecting device 1 of the present embodiment generates light used for illumination by fluorescence emission of the light emitting unit 5 using a semiconductor laser. Therefore, high-luminance light emission can be realized from a narrow area which is a laser spot on the light emitting unit 5. Therefore, each lighting unit 2a-2e can be reduced in size.

  Note that a scatterer that diffuses and scatters laser light may be disposed in the vicinity of the focal point of the reflector 6 instead of the light emitting unit 5 including a phosphor. The scatterer (irradiation unit) that has received the laser light from the laser element (light emitting unit) may scatter the laser light and irradiate each position on the reflection surface of the reflector 6 with light. In this case, in order to project white light, a plurality of laser elements having different wavelengths of light emitted from one reflector 6 may be used in combination.

  In the above description, a configuration in which a plurality of illumination units are arranged in the horizontal direction (horizontal direction) and the prescribed region is divided and projected in the horizontal direction is not limited to this. The unit may be arranged, and the prescribed area may be divided in the vertical direction to project light. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which divides | segments a prescription | regulation area | region into a horizontal direction and a vertical direction, and projects. By doing so, a complicated light distribution can be easily realized.

  In the above description, the configuration in which the light projecting areas overlap each other with the light projecting areas of the other lighting units has been described in all of the plurality of lighting units. You may make it an area | region overlap with the light projection area | region of another lighting unit. Here, when the illumination units of the plurality of illumination units are configured to have different illuminances in the projection areas, the projection areas of only the illumination units with high illuminance that are more likely to fail are the other illumination units. It may be made to overlap with the projection area. By doing so, even if a lighting unit with high illuminance in the light projection area breaks down, light can be projected so as to fill a predetermined area. Furthermore, in the above description, the configuration in which only a part of the light projecting areas of each lighting unit of the plurality of lighting units is overlapped has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and two areas that require illuminance among predetermined areas are provided. You may project using the above illumination unit.

(Modification of lighting unit)
As the plurality of illumination units provided in the light projecting device 1, a semicircular illumination unit can be used instead of a circular opening.

  FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration of a lighting unit 31 according to a modification. The illumination unit 31 includes a laser element 3, a condenser lens 4, a light emitting unit 5, a reflector 8, and a metal base 9. The configurations of the laser element 3 and the condenser lens 4 are the same as those in FIG.

  In the configuration of FIG. 5, the light emitting unit 5 is fixed on the metal base 9 and is disposed at a substantially focal position of the reflector 8 having a parabolic cross section. For this reason, the light path irradiated from the light-emitting part 5 to the reflector 8 is reflected by the reflection curved surface of the reflector 8, and the optical path is controlled.

  Further, the light emitting unit 5 is provided on the metal base 9 so that an extended surface E of the irradiation surface, which is a surface irradiated with laser light, is in contact with (or intersects with) the end of the reflector 8 in the opening 8a. Inclined on the inclined part 9a. For this reason, the fluorescence emitted from the light emitting unit 5 can be efficiently reflected without any waste by the reflector 8 and can be distributed. Moreover, since the light emission of the light emission part 5 is not visually recognized from the outside, the glare and dazzling at the time of seeing from the outside can be suppressed. In addition, even when a laser beam that is uneasy about safety when directly viewing the light emitting point is used as excitation light, a configuration with high safety can be provided by using this configuration.

  The reflector 8 has at least a part of a partial curved surface obtained by cutting a curved surface (parabolic curved surface) formed by rotating the parabola with the axis of symmetry of the parabola as a rotational axis by a plane including the rotational axis. The reflection surface includes a semicircular opening 8a in a direction in which the fluorescence emitted by the light emitting unit 5 is reflected.

  The laser element 3 and the condenser lens 4 are disposed outside the reflector 8, and the reflector 8 is provided with a window portion 8 b that transmits or passes the laser light. The window portion 8b may be a through hole or may include a transparent member that can transmit laser light. For example, a transparent plate provided with a filter that transmits laser light and reflects white light (fluorescence of the light emitting unit 5) may be provided as the window portion 8b. According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the fluorescence emitted from the light emitting unit 5 from leaking from the window 8b.

  The metal base 9 is a plate-like support member that has the inclined portion 9a and supports the illumination unit 31, and is made of metal (for example, copper or iron). For this reason, the metal base 9 has high thermal conductivity, and heat generated in the laser element 3 and the light emitting unit 5 disposed on the metal base 9 can be efficiently radiated.

  In addition, the member which supports the light emission part 5 is not limited to what consists of metals, The member containing substances (glass, sapphire, etc.) with high heat conductivity other than a metal may be sufficient. However, the surface of the inclined portion 9a to which the light emitting portion 5 is applied preferably functions as a reflecting surface. Since the surface of the inclined portion 9a is a reflection surface, the laser light incident on the irradiation surface of the light-emitting portion 5 is converted into fluorescence, and then reflected by the reflection surface, can be directed to the reflector 8. Alternatively, the laser light incident from the irradiation surface of the light-emitting unit 5 can be reflected by the reflection surface and directed toward the inside of the light-emitting unit 5 to be converted into fluorescence.

[Embodiment 2]
Another embodiment of the present invention will be described below. For convenience of explanation, members / configurations having the same functions as those in the drawings described in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted. In the present embodiment, a configuration will be described in which when a failure occurs in some of the lighting units, the other lighting units make up for the failure.

  FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the configuration of the light projecting device 41 of the present embodiment. The light projecting device 41 includes a plurality (here, five) of illumination units 42a to 42e. The light projecting device 41 includes a failure detection unit (detection unit) 43 and a drive control unit (light projection change unit) 44. In FIG. 6, the failure detection unit 43 and the drive control unit 44 are shown as functional blocks. Moreover, in FIG. 6, the optical axis (central axis) of the light distributed from each illumination unit 42a-42e is shown with a dashed-dotted line. Further, in FIG. 6, the range of light distributed from each of the lighting units 42 a to 42 e (solid angle in which the light bundle falls) is indicated by a broken line. Here, as in the first embodiment, the light projecting device 41 is mounted on the automobile so that the five illumination units 42a to 42e are horizontally arranged. A detailed configuration of the illumination unit 42a will be described with reference to FIG. The illumination units 42a to 42e have the same configuration.

(Configuration of lighting unit)
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the illumination unit 42a of the present embodiment. The illumination unit 42 a includes a laser element (excitation light emitting unit) 3, a condenser lens 4, a light emitting unit (irradiating unit) 5, a reflector 8, a metal base 9, and a unit driving unit (light projection changing unit) 45. The configurations of the condenser lens 4, the light emitting unit 5, and the reflector 8 are the same as those in FIG.

  The laser element 3 is a laser element incorporating a monitor PD (photo diode), and can detect a failure of the laser element 3. The laser element 3 may be an APC (constant output) laser element or an ACC (constant current) laser element.

  The failure detection unit 43 receives the output of the monitor PD of the laser element 3 of each of the illumination units 42a to 42e, and detects the presence / absence of a failure of each of the illumination units 42a to 42e (the laser element 3). The failure detection unit 43 outputs to the drive control unit 44 whether or not there is a failure in each of the lighting units 42a to 42e.

  In addition, a light receiving element may be arranged in the internal space of the reflector 8 of each of the lighting units 42a to 42e, and the failure detection unit 43 may receive the output of the light receiving element, thereby monitoring the intensity of the fluorescence emission of the light emitting unit 5. In this case, both the failure of the laser element and the deterioration of the phosphor of the light emitting unit 5 can be detected by the light receiving element. For example, the failure detection unit 43 may determine the presence or absence of a failure in the lighting unit by comparing the output (light reception amount) itself of the light receiving element in the reflector 8 with a predetermined threshold value. Further, for example, the failure detection unit 43 compares the output (light reception amount) of the light receiving element in the reflector 8 with respect to the output (power or current, etc.) of the laser element 3 with a predetermined threshold value to determine whether or not the illumination unit has failed. May be determined.

  In addition, an imaging unit such as a camera for monitoring the front of the automobile may be provided, and the failure detection unit 43 may analyze the captured image to monitor the light projection state by the light projecting device. As a result, it is possible to identify a light projection area that has become dark and to identify a defective lighting unit. In this case, a failure such as a broken reflector can also be detected. The failure detection unit 43 can identify a failed lighting unit by comparing, for example, a predetermined pattern image with a captured image, or has failed by comparing images when the light projecting device is turned on and when it is not lit. A lighting unit can also be specified.

  The drive control part 44 controls the unit drive part 45 of each illumination unit 42a-42e based on the presence or absence of a failure of each illumination unit 42a-42e.

  The unit driving unit 45 supports the metal base 9 so as to be rotatable about the rotation shaft 45a. Thereby, the unit drive part 45 makes the illumination unit 42a including the reflector 8 rotatable. Further, the unit driving unit 45 rotates the illumination unit 42a in accordance with an instruction from the drive control unit 44, and changes the direction of light distribution (the position of the light projecting area) of the illumination unit 42a.

(Light distribution characteristics of the light projecting device 41)
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an image of light projected by the light projecting device 41 on a reference plane separated by a predetermined distance.

  On the reference plane, the five illumination units 42a to 42e of the light projecting device 41 project different light projecting areas 12a to 12e, respectively. Each light projection area | region 12a-12e may differ in a shape and a magnitude | size. The light projecting areas 12a to 12e partially overlap with the light projecting areas adjacent to each other. For example, the light projecting area 12a corresponding to the illumination unit 42a has an area overlapping the light projecting area 12b corresponding to the adjacent illumination unit 42b. Moreover, the light projection area | region 12b corresponding to the illumination unit 42b has an area | region which overlaps with the light projection area | region 12c corresponding to the adjacent illumination unit 42c.

  The prescribed area 10 to be illuminated is divided and projected by the respective lighting units 2a to 2e. In FIG. 7, a line that divides the specified region 10 into five partial regions 11 a to 11 e is indicated by a dotted line. The partial areas 11a to 11e are obtained by dividing the specified area 10 for convenience in accordance with the light projecting areas 12a to 12e. The partial areas 11a to 11e in the defined area 10 are included in the light projecting areas 12a to 12e, respectively.

  In the present embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, each of the partial regions 11a to 11e of the defined region 10 has a region that is included only in any one light projecting region. For example, the area near the center of the partial area 11c only overlaps with the light projecting area 12c corresponding to the illumination unit 42c. Therefore, when the light distribution from the illumination unit 42c is lost due to a failure or the like, the other illumination units 42a, 42b, 42d, and 42e need to supplement the light projecting area 12c.

  For example, when the laser is not output from the laser element 3 of the illumination unit 42c, the failure detection unit 43 detects a failure of the laser element 3 of the illumination unit 42c from the output of the monitor PD of the laser element 3 of the illumination unit 42c. . When the failure of the laser element 3 of the illumination unit 42c is detected, the failure detection unit 43 notifies the drive control unit 44 that the illumination unit 42c has failed.

  When the lighting unit 42c fails, the drive control unit 44 uses the unit driving unit 45 to cover the light projecting area 12c of the lighting unit 42c with the other lighting units 42a, 42b, 42d, and 42e. -Rotate 42d and 42e, and change each light projection area | region. The drive control unit 44 stores in advance how much other lighting units are rotated when each lighting unit fails.

  FIG. 9 is a plan view showing the light distribution direction of another lighting unit when the lighting unit 42c fails. The lighting units 42a, 42b, 42d, and 42e that have not failed are changed in light distribution direction so as to compensate for at least a part of the light projecting area (the part included in the defined area 10) of the failed lighting unit 42c.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an image of light projected by the light projecting device 41 on the reference plane when the illumination unit 42c fails. The positions of the light projecting areas 12a, 12b, 12d, and 12e corresponding to the other lighting units 42a, 42b, 42d, and 42e are changed in the central portion of the defined area 10 that has been projected by the lighting unit 42c. Thereby, the arbitrary position of the prescription | regulation area | region 10 is contained in either the light projection area | region 12a * 12b * 12d * 12e corresponding to the lighting unit 42a * 42b * 42d * 42e which has not failed.

  Even when another lighting unit fails in place of the lighting unit 42c, the light projecting area of the lighting unit that has not failed is similarly changed to compensate for the light distribution to the area where the failed lighting unit should project light. . Therefore, even when a part of the lighting units of the light projecting device 41 is broken, the entire predetermined prescribed area 10 is projected. Therefore, even if a part of the lighting units of the light projecting device 41 breaks down, it is possible to maintain a light distribution characteristic that allows safe traveling and to continue traveling safely. Therefore, it is possible to continue traveling safely without replacing parts or the like. When some of the lighting units fail, the output of the laser element 3 of another lighting unit that has not failed may be increased.

  Moreover, the failure detection unit 43 may notify the user that the lighting unit has failed. The user can quickly notice the failure of the lighting unit. In addition, an operation unit (button or the like) for changing the angle of the lighting unit may be provided near the driver's seat, and the drive control unit may change the angle of the lighting unit in accordance with the operation of the operation unit by the user. .

  In addition, in the event of a failure of a lighting unit, instead of automatically adjusting the light distribution direction of other lighting units, a user or a technician at the maintenance shop can turn on the lighting supported by the unit drive unit. The light distribution direction may be adjusted by rotating the unit. In this case, the failure detection unit 43 and the drive control unit 44 can be omitted.

  As in the first embodiment, since the plurality of illumination units 42a to 42e that divide and project the prescribed region 10 are provided, a light distribution with different illuminances for each position can be easily realized.

  The prescribed area 10 is divided and projected by a plurality of illumination units 42a to 42e. Even if one lighting unit fails, the prescribed area 10 can be divided and projected by a plurality of other lighting units. Therefore, the individual lighting units 42a to 42e can be reduced in size.

(Modification of lighting unit)
In the above, the structure which changes the light projection area | region by an illumination unit by rotating an illumination unit (and a reflector) was demonstrated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the projection area of the lighting unit may be changed by other methods.

  For example, it is good also as a structure which changes the light distribution direction of an illumination unit by moving the position of the reflector 8 with respect to the light emission part 5, and changing a focus position.

  Moreover, it is good also as a structure which changes the light distribution direction from an illumination unit by changing the irradiation position of the laser on the light emission part 5. FIG. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the illumination unit 46 that can change the laser irradiation position on the light emitting unit 5. The illumination unit 46 includes an optical element (light projection changing unit) 47 that changes the traveling direction of the laser between the condenser lens 4 and the light emitting unit 5. By changing the position or angle of the optical element 47, the laser traveling direction can be changed, and the laser irradiation position on the light emitting unit 5 can be changed. In this case, when a failure occurs in a certain lighting unit, the drive control unit (not shown) changes the position or angle of the optical element 47 of another lighting unit. Thereby, the angle reflected by the reflector 8 is changed between the normal time and the failure time, and the light distribution direction by the reflector 8 is changed, so that the light projecting area of the lighting unit can be changed.

  Instead of the optical element 47, the laser irradiation position on the light emitting unit 5 may be changed by changing the position or angle of the laser element 3 or the condenser lens 4 with respect to the reflector 8.

  Further, for example, by changing the position of the condenser lens (light projection change unit) 4 shown in FIG. 8, the solid angle of light distribution from the illumination unit is increased, and the light projection area of the illumination unit is expanded. Also good. In addition, a configuration in which the light projecting area of the illumination unit is enlarged by changing the position of the light emitting unit 5 with respect to the reflector 8 to the front or rear (the opening 8a side or the apex side of the paraboloid of the reflector 8) from the focal position. It is good. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which expands the light projection area | region of an illumination unit by changing the paraboloid of a reflector.

  FIG. 12 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of a light projecting device 49 including a plurality of illumination units 48a to 48e that can expand a light projecting area. For example, when the lighting unit 48c breaks down, the drive control unit 44 can supplement the light projecting area of the lighting unit 48c by expanding the light projecting area of the two adjacent lighting units 48b and 48d. In addition, when the light projection area | region of illumination unit 48b * 48d is expanded, you may increase the output of the laser element of illumination unit 48b * 48d. By expanding only the light projecting areas of the lighting units 48b and 48d adjacent to the failed lighting unit 48c, the entire light projecting area can be efficiently expanded to the light projecting area of the failed lighting unit 48c. Can compensate for the light distribution.

  In addition, you may use combining the several means to change the light projection area | region of these illumination units.

[Embodiment 3]
Another embodiment of the present invention will be described below. For convenience of explanation, members / configurations having the same functions as those in the drawings described in the first or second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. In the present embodiment, a configuration will be described in which when a failure occurs in some of the lighting units, the auxiliary lighting unit compensates for the failure.

  FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the configuration of the light projecting device 51 of this embodiment. The light projecting device 51 includes a plurality of (here, five) illumination units 52 a to 52 e and an auxiliary illumination unit 53. In addition, the light projecting device 51 includes a failure detection unit 43 and a drive control unit 44. In FIG. 13, the failure detection unit 43 and the drive control unit 44 are shown as functional blocks. Moreover, in FIG. 13, the optical axis (central axis) of the light distributed from each illumination unit 52a-52e is shown with a dashed-dotted line. In FIG. 13, the range of light distributed from each of the illumination units 52 a to 52 e (solid angle in which the light bundle falls) is indicated by a broken line. Here, as in the first embodiment, the light projecting device 51 is mounted on the automobile so that the five illumination units 52a to 52e are horizontally arranged.

(Configuration of lighting unit)
The illumination units 52a to 52e have the same configuration as the illumination unit 31 shown in FIG. Therefore, the light projection areas of the illumination units 52a to 52e are unchanged. However, the laser elements included in the illumination units 52a to 52e incorporate the monitor PD.

  The failure detection unit 43 receives the output of the monitor PD of the laser element of each of the illumination units 52a to 52e, and detects the presence or absence of a failure of each of the illumination units 52a to 52e (the laser element). The failure detection unit 43 outputs to the drive control unit 44 whether there is a failure in each of the lighting units 52a to 52e.

  FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the auxiliary illumination unit 53. The auxiliary illumination unit 53 includes a laser element 3, a condenser lens 4, a light emitting unit 5, a reflector 8, a metal base 9, and a unit driving unit 45. The configurations of the condenser lens 4, the light emitting unit 5, the reflector 8, the metal base 9, and the unit driving unit 45 are the same as those in FIG. 8. The laser element 3 of the auxiliary illumination unit 53 may not include the monitor PD.

  The drive control unit 44 controls the output of the laser element 3 of the auxiliary lighting unit 53 and the unit driving unit 45 of the auxiliary lighting unit 53 based on whether or not each of the lighting units 52a to 52e has a failure.

(Light distribution characteristics of the light projector 51)
When the illumination units 52a to 52e are operating normally, predetermined areas (specified areas) are projected by the illumination units 52a to 52e of the light projecting device 51, as shown in FIG. When a part of the plurality of lighting units 52a to 52e fails, for example, when the lighting unit 52d fails, as shown in FIG. Flood light. This compensates for the light distribution to the light projecting area of the illumination unit 52d.

  For example, when the laser is not output from the laser element of the illumination unit 52d, the failure detection unit 43 detects a failure of the laser element of the illumination unit 52d from the output of the monitor PD of the laser element of the illumination unit 52d. When the failure of the laser element of the illumination unit 52d is detected, the failure detection unit 43 notifies the drive control unit 44 that the illumination unit 52d has failed.

  When the illumination unit 52d fails, the drive control unit 44 causes the laser element 3 of the auxiliary illumination unit 53 to output a laser in order to cover the projection area of the illumination unit 52d with the auxiliary illumination unit 53. When the lighting unit 52d fails, the drive control unit 44 controls the unit driving unit 45 of the auxiliary lighting unit 53, rotates the auxiliary lighting unit 53, and projects light of the failed lighting unit 52d. The projection area of the auxiliary illumination unit 53 is changed so as to compensate for the above. The drive control unit 44 stores in advance how much the auxiliary lighting unit 53 is rotated when each lighting unit fails.

  Therefore, even when a part of the lighting units of the light projecting device 51 is broken, the entire predetermined prescribed area is projected. Therefore, even if some of the lighting units 52a to 52e that are normally used in the light projecting device 51 break down, the light distribution characteristic that allows safe driving is maintained, and the lighting unit 51 is safe. It is possible to continue running. Therefore, it is possible to continue traveling safely without replacing parts or the like.

  As in the second embodiment, since the plurality of illumination units 52a to 52e that divide the prescribed area and project the light are provided, it is possible to easily realize the light distribution with different illuminances for each position.

  The defined area is divided and projected by the plurality of lighting units 52a to 52e. Even if one of the plurality of lighting units 52a to 52e fails, the prescribed area can be divided and projected by the other lighting unit and the auxiliary lighting unit. Therefore, the individual lighting units 52a to 52e and the auxiliary lighting unit 53 can be reduced in size.

  Note that a plurality of auxiliary lighting units may be provided for a plurality of normally used lighting units. For example, a total of two lighting units may be provided on the left and right. In this case, when a part of the lighting units breaks down, only the auxiliary lighting unit closer to the broken lighting unit may be turned on.

  In the above embodiment, the failure detection unit 43 has been described to detect the presence or absence of failure only in a plurality of lighting units that are normally used. However, the failure detection unit 43 is not limited to this, and the failure detection unit 43 is for auxiliary use. The presence or absence of a failure of the lighting unit may be detected, and if a failure of the auxiliary lighting unit is detected, the user may be notified.

[Modification of lighting unit]
In each embodiment, the plurality of illumination units included in the light projecting device is not limited to the configuration described above. Below, the modification of a lighting unit is demonstrated.

  FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration of a lighting unit 54 according to a modification. The illumination unit 54 includes the laser element 3, the condenser lens 4, the light emitting unit 5, the reflector 13, and the support column 14. The configurations of the laser element 3 and the condenser lens 4 are the same as those in FIG.

  In the illumination unit 54 shown in FIG. 16, the light emitting unit 5 is fixed on the support column 14 and is disposed at a substantially focal position of the reflector 13 having a parabolic cross section. For this reason, the light path which the light irradiated to the reflector 13 from the light emission part 5 reflects by the reflective curved surface of the reflector 13 is controlled.

  The reflector 13 has at least a part of a partial curved surface obtained by cutting a curved surface (parabolic curved surface) formed by rotating the parabola with the axis of symmetry of the parabola as a rotational axis by a plane including the rotational axis. The circular opening 13a is included in the reflection surface and reflects the fluorescence emitted by the light emitting unit 5 in the reflecting direction.

  The laser element 3 and the condenser lens 4 are disposed outside the reflector 13, and the reflector 13 is provided with a window portion 13 b that transmits or passes the laser light. The window portion 13b may be a through hole or may include a transparent member that can transmit laser light. For example, a transparent plate provided with a filter that transmits laser light and reflects white light (fluorescence of the light emitting unit 5) may be provided as the window portion 13b. According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the fluorescence emitted from the light emitting unit 5 from leaking from the window 13b.

  The light emitting unit 5 is fixed to the support column 14 and is disposed at a substantially focal position of the reflector 13 having a parabolic cross section. Here, the support column 14 is made of a transparent material having high thermal conductivity, for example, sapphire, and can transmit the laser beam emitted from the laser element 3 and the fluorescence emitted by the light emitting unit 5, and is generated in the light emitting unit 5. The generated heat can be efficiently radiated.

  The light emitting unit 5 is not only from the surface (surface on the window 13b side) irradiated with the laser light emitted from the laser element 3, but also from the surface opposite to the irradiated surface (surface on the opening 13a side). Also emits fluorescence. The reflector 13 reflects light (fluorescence) irradiated from the surface irradiated with the laser light of the light emitting unit 5 and the surface opposite to the surface, and distributes the light in a predetermined direction.

[Modification of lighting unit]
Below, the modification of another illumination unit is demonstrated.

  FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration of a lighting unit 55 of a modified example. The illumination unit 55 includes a plurality of laser elements 3 a, 3 b, 3 c, a plurality of condenser lenses 4 a, 4 b, 4 c, a scattering part (irradiation part) 17, a reflector 15, and a column 16. The configurations of the laser elements 3a, 3b, and 3c and the corresponding condensing lenses 4a, 4b, and 4c are the same as the configurations of the laser element 3 and the condensing lens 4 in FIG.

  However, the laser elements 3a, 3b, and 3c are laser elements that emit laser beams of different colors, for example, blue, green, and red. The laser beams emitted from the laser elements 3a, 3b, and 3c pass through the corresponding condenser lenses 4a, 4b, and 4c, respectively, and irradiate the scattering unit 17.

  The scattering unit 17 includes a scatterer that scatters laser light. More specifically, the scattering unit 17 scatters coherent laser light and converts it into incoherent scattered light. With this configuration, the laser light emitted from the laser elements 3 a, 3 b, and 3 c is scattered by the scattering unit 17, and the scattered light (scattered light) is irradiated onto the reflecting surface of the reflector 15. As described above, the laser light emitted from the laser elements 3a, 3b, and 3c is scattered by the scattering unit 17 to become white light, and is distributed in a predetermined direction by the reflector 15.

  In the configuration of FIG. 17, the scattering portion 17 is fixed on the support column 16 and is disposed at a substantially focal position of the reflector 15 having a parabolic cross section. For this reason, the light path irradiated to the reflector 15 from the scattering part 17 is reflected by the reflective curved surface of the reflector 15, and the optical path is controlled.

  The reflector 15 has at least a part of a partial curved surface obtained by cutting a curved surface (parabolic curved surface) formed by rotating the parabola with the axis of symmetry of the parabola as a rotational axis by a plane including the rotational axis. A circular opening 15a is included in the reflection surface and reflects the scattered light emitted by the scattering portion 17.

  Further, the laser elements 3a, 3b, 3c and the condensing lenses 4a, 4b, 4c are arranged outside the reflector 15. Correspondingly, a plurality of laser beams are transmitted or passed through the reflector 15. A window portion 15b is provided. The window portion 15b may be a through hole or may include a transparent member that can transmit laser light. For example, a transparent plate provided with a filter that transmits the laser light of the corresponding laser element and reflects the light of the other laser element may be provided as each window portion 15b. According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the light scattered by the laser light from other laser elements from leaking from the window portion 15b.

  The support column 16 is made of a transparent material having high thermal conductivity, for example, sapphire, can transmit the laser beam emitted from the laser element 3 and the light scattered by the scattering unit 17, and the heat generated in the scattering unit 17. Can be efficiently dissipated.

  The number of laser elements and the color of laser light emitted from each laser element are not limited to the above. For example, when the number of laser elements is two and the colors of emitted laser light are blue and yellow, white light can be obtained.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  The present invention can be used for a vehicle headlamp.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 41, 49, 51 Light projector 2a-2e, 31, 42a-42e, 46, 48a-48e, 52a-52e, 54, 55 Illumination unit 3, 3a, 3b, 3c Laser element (light emission part)
4, 4a, 4b, 4c Condensing lens 5 Light emitting part (irradiation part)
6, 8, 13, 15 Reflector (light distribution part)
6a, 8a, 13a, 15a Opening 6b, 8b, 13b, 15b Window 7, 14, 16 Column 9 Metal base 9a Inclined part 10 Prescribed area 11a-11e Partial area 12a-12e Light emitting area 17 Scattering part (irradiating part) )
20 Reference plane 43 Fault detection unit (detection unit)
44 Drive control unit (light projection change unit)
45 Unit drive unit (light emission change unit)
47 Optical element (projection change section)
53 Auxiliary lighting unit

Claims (17)

A light projecting device that projects a predetermined area,
A plurality of irradiation units;
A plurality of light distribution units provided corresponding to each irradiation unit,
Each light distribution unit distributes light emitted from the corresponding irradiation unit in a predetermined direction,
The plurality of light distribution units divide and project the predetermined region,
Of the plurality of light distribution units, a light projection region by light distribution from the first light distribution unit, and the region that is the predetermined region is light projection by light distribution from any other light distribution unit A floodlight device characterized by overlapping an area.   The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of light distribution units includes a plurality of the first light distribution units.   3. The center position of the light projecting region by the light distribution from the first light distribution unit is included in the light projecting region by the light distribution from the other light distribution unit. Floodlight device.   The predetermined region is included in any one of the plurality of light distribution units by a light distribution from a plurality of other light distribution units excluding the first light distribution unit. The light projecting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.   5. The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined region is divided and projected in the horizontal direction and / or the vertical direction by the plurality of light distribution units. A light projecting device that projects a predetermined area,
A plurality of irradiation units;
A plurality of light distribution units that are provided corresponding to the respective irradiation units and distribute light emitted from the corresponding irradiation units in a predetermined direction;
A light projecting change unit capable of changing a light projection region by light distribution from the first light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units,
When the light distribution from the second light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units is normally performed, the plurality of light distribution units including the first light distribution unit and the second light distribution unit are: The predetermined area is divided and projected.
When the light distribution from the second light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units is not normally performed, by changing the light projection area of the first light distribution unit by the light projection change unit, At least a part of the light projecting area of the second light distribution unit is projected. A detection unit for detecting whether or not the light distribution from the second light distribution unit is normally performed;
When the detection unit detects that the light distribution from the second light distribution unit is not normally performed, the light projection change unit has at least a part of the light projection region of the second light distribution unit. The light projecting device according to claim 6, wherein the light projecting area of the first light distribution unit is changed so that the light is projected.   The light projection device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the light projection change unit changes the light projection region by rotating or moving the first light distribution unit. A light emitting part for emitting light;
The irradiation unit receives light emitted from the light emitting unit and irradiates the light distribution unit with light,
The said light projection change part changes the said light projection area | region of the said 1st light distribution part by changing the irradiation position of the light from the said light emission part to the said irradiation part corresponding to a said 1st light distribution part. The light projecting device according to claim 6, wherein: A light emitting part for emitting light;
The irradiation unit receives light emitted from the light emitting unit and irradiates the light distribution unit with light,
The said light projection change part changes the said light projection area | region of the said 1st light distribution part by expanding the irradiation range of the light from the said light emission part in the said irradiation part corresponding to a said 1st light distribution part. The light projecting device according to claim 6, wherein the light projecting device is a light emitting device. The first light distribution unit is disposed adjacent to the second light distribution unit,
When the light distribution from the second light distribution unit is not normally performed, the light projection change unit changes a light projection region of one or a plurality of the light distribution units adjacent to the second light distribution unit. 11. The light projecting device according to claim 6, wherein at least a part of the light projecting region of the second light distribution unit is projected. A light projecting device that projects a predetermined area,
A plurality of irradiation units;
A plurality of light distribution units that are provided corresponding to the respective irradiation units and distribute light emitted from the corresponding irradiation units in a predetermined direction;
A detection unit that detects whether or not the light distribution of the plurality of light distribution units other than the first light distribution unit among the plurality of light distribution units is normally performed,
When the light distribution of the other light distribution units other than the first light distribution unit is normally performed, the first light distribution unit does not project light, and the other light distribution units Dividing the predetermined area and projecting light,
When the detection unit detects that the light distribution from any one of the plurality of other light distribution units is not normally performed, the first light distribution unit has a normal light distribution. A light projecting device that projects at least a part of a light projecting area of the light distribution unit that is not performed on the projector. A light emitting part for emitting excitation light;
The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the irradiation unit emits light by excitation light emitted from the light emitting unit. The light emitting unit emits a laser,
The light projecting device according to claim 9, wherein the irradiation unit emits light when excited by the laser. A light emitting part for emitting light;
The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the irradiating unit scatters the light emitted from the light emitting unit. The light emitting unit emits a laser,
The light projecting device according to claim 9, wherein the irradiation unit scatters the laser. A vehicle headlamp comprising the light projecting device according to any one of claims 1 to 16,
In the predetermined area, a light distribution characteristic standard for a vehicle headlamp is defined,
The vehicular headlamp characterized in that the light projecting device projects the predetermined area so as to satisfy the light distribution characteristic standard.

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