JP2013161552A - Light projection device, and laser irradiation device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a light projection device capable of shortening a manufacturing time.SOLUTION: A light projection device 1 includes a plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 arranged in a C direction, a fluorescent member 22 for emitting fluorescence by being irradiated with a laser beam, and a condensing lens 21 for irradiating the laser beam to the fluorescent member 22 by transmitting the laser beam emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11. The condensing lens 21 concentrates the laser beam in a D direction crossing the C direction without concentrating the laser beam in the C direction.

Description

  The present invention relates to a light projection device and a laser irradiation device, and more particularly to a light projection device and a laser irradiation device provided with a plurality of laser generators.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a light projecting device including a plurality of laser generators and a fluorescent member that emits fluorescence when irradiated with laser light. An example of a conventional projector is a plurality of laser generators, a fluorescent member that emits fluorescence when irradiated with laser light, and a plurality of condensing beams that transmit the laser light emitted from the laser generator and irradiate the fluorescent member. A lens and a reflecting member that projects light emitted from the fluorescent member are provided. A condensing lens is provided for each laser generator.

  In this light projecting device, the laser beams emitted from the plurality of laser generators are condensed by the corresponding condensing lens, irradiated to the fluorescent member, and converted into fluorescence by the fluorescent member. The fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent member is projected forward of the light projecting device by the reflecting member.

  In addition, the light projector provided with the several laser generator and the fluorescent member is disclosed by patent document 1, for example.

JP 2004-241142 A

  However, in the conventional projector described above, a condensing lens is provided for each laser generator in order to irradiate the fluorescent member with the laser light emitted from each laser generator. There are many optical adjustment points. For this reason, there exists a problem that manufacture of a light projection apparatus takes time.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a light projecting device and a laser irradiation device capable of reducing the manufacturing time.

  In order to achieve the above object, a light projecting device of the present invention includes a plurality of laser generators arranged in a first direction and emitting laser light, a fluorescent member that emits fluorescence when irradiated with laser light, and a plurality of laser generators A condensing lens that transmits laser light emitted from the laser generator and irradiates the fluorescent member; and a light projecting member that projects light emitted from the fluorescent member. The laser beam is focused in a second direction that intersects the first direction, without focusing in the direction.

  In the light projecting device of the present invention, as described above, the plurality of laser generators arranged in the first direction and emitting laser light, and the laser light emitted from the plurality of laser generators are transmitted and irradiated to the fluorescent member. And a condensing lens. Thereby, since one (common) condensing lens should just be adjusted with respect to a several laser generator, the manufacturing time of a light projection apparatus can be shortened. In addition, since a common condenser lens is provided for a plurality of laser generators, the number of parts can be reduced and the size can be reduced.

  Further, as described above, since the condensing lens does not condense the laser light in the first direction, it is not necessary to perform optical adjustment between the laser generator and the condensing lens in the first direction. Thereby, optical adjustment with a laser generator and a condensing lens can be performed more easily, and the manufacturing time of a light projection apparatus can be shortened more. Moreover, since the condensing lens condenses the laser light in the second direction intersecting the first direction, the length of the irradiation region of the fluorescent member in the second direction can be controlled by the condensing lens.

  In the light projecting device of the present invention, the length of the irradiation region of the fluorescent member in the first direction is determined by the distance from the laser generator to the fluorescent member, and the second of the irradiation region of the fluorescent member is determined by the condensing lens. The length of the direction is determined.

  In the above projector, preferably, the plurality of laser generators are provided on the same substrate. If comprised in this way, the several laser generator arranged in the 1st direction can be obtained easily. “A plurality of laser generators are provided on the same substrate” means that a plurality of laser generators are mounted on the same mounting substrate or a plurality of laser element units on one semiconductor substrate. This is a concept including a case where a (laser generator) is formed.

  In the above projector, the plurality of laser generators are preferably arranged in a direction perpendicular to the major axis direction of the laser light. If comprised in this way, a laser beam can be condensed in a major axis direction (2nd direction) with a condensing lens. Thereby, since it can suppress that the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member becomes large in a major axis direction, it is especially effective.

  In the above projector, the plurality of laser generators are preferably arranged so that the optical axes of the laser beams emitted from the plurality of laser generators approach each other as the distance from the laser generator increases. If comprised in this way, it can suppress that the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member becomes large in a 1st direction.

  In the present specification and claims, the optical axis refers to an axis extending in the direction in which the luminous flux is highest.

  In the light projecting device in which the plurality of laser generators are arranged so that the optical axes of the laser beams are close to each other, preferably, the fluorescent member includes an irradiation surface on which the laser beams are irradiated, and the plurality of laser generators There is one point of intersection between the optical axis of each laser beam emitted and transmitted through the condenser lens and the irradiation surface of the fluorescent member.

  In the above light projecting device, preferably, the fluorescent member includes an irradiation surface on which the laser light is irradiated, and the optical axis of each laser light emitted from the plurality of laser generators and transmitted through the condenser lens, and the irradiation surface of the fluorescent member, There are a plurality of intersections.

  In the light projecting device in which the intersection between the optical axis of each laser beam and the irradiation surface of the fluorescent member is a plurality of points, preferably, the plurality of intersections emit white light when irradiated with the laser beam, and And a point that emits orange light when irradiated with laser light. If comprised in this way, white light and orange light can be radiate | emitted from one light projector.

  In this case, preferably, the fluorescent member includes a white phosphor that emits white light when irradiated with laser light, and an orange phosphor that emits orange light when irradiated with laser light. The body functions as a light source for a vehicle headlamp, and the orange phosphor functions as a light source for a vehicle direction indicator. If comprised in this way, since one light projector can serve as a headlamp and a direction indicator, it is especially effective.

  In the present specification and claims, the white phosphor means a phosphor that emits light that becomes white light when mixed, and for example, excitation light is red light, green light, and blue light. Three types of phosphors, red phosphor, green phosphor and blue phosphor, respectively, and two types of phosphor, yellow phosphor and blue phosphor, which convert excitation light into yellow light and blue light, respectively It is a concept that includes.

  In the light projecting device in which there are a plurality of intersections between the optical axis of each laser beam and the irradiation surface of the fluorescent member, the plurality of laser generators are preferably driven individually. If comprised in this way, since the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member can be changed, the light projection pattern of the light radiate | emitted from a light projector can be changed.

  In the light projecting device, preferably, the light projecting member includes a reflecting member that reflects light emitted from the fluorescent member. If comprised in this way, the light radiate | emitted from the fluorescent member can be easily reflected in a predetermined direction.

  In the light projecting device in which the light projecting member includes a reflective member, preferably, the reflective member is formed with a through hole through which the laser light from the laser generator passes and reaches the fluorescent member. If comprised in this way, when the laser generator is arrange | positioned outside the reflection member, the laser beam radiate | emitted from the laser generator can be easily irradiated to a fluorescent member.

  In the light projecting device, preferably, the light projecting member includes a lens that transmits light emitted from the fluorescent member. If comprised in this way, the light radiate | emitted from the fluorescent member can be easily projected in a predetermined direction.

  In the above projector, the condensing lens preferably includes a cylindrical lens. If comprised in this way, a condensing lens can be formed easily so that the laser beam radiate | emitted from the several laser generator arranged in the 1st direction may be permeate | transmitted and irradiated to a fluorescent member. Further, the condensing lens can be easily formed so that the laser light is not condensed in the first direction but is condensed in the second direction.

  In the above light projecting device, preferably, a plurality of laser generators are housed, a housing member having an opening on the laser light emitting side, a function of being attached to the opening of the housing member and transmitting the laser light. And a condensing lens is fixed to the cover member. If comprised in this way, optical adjustment with a laser generator and a condensing lens can be performed more easily. In addition, since the plurality of laser generators and the condensing lens can be handled as one component after the condensing lens is fixed to the cover member, the light projecting device can be manufactured more easily.

  The light projecting device is preferably used as a vehicular lamp.

  The laser irradiation apparatus according to the present invention includes a plurality of laser generators arranged in a first direction and emitting laser light, and a condensing lens that transmits the laser light emitted from the plurality of laser generators and irradiates the fluorescent member. The condensing lens condenses the laser light in a second direction intersecting the first direction without condensing the laser light in the first direction.

  In the laser irradiation apparatus of the present invention, as described above, a plurality of laser generators arranged in the first direction and emitting laser light, and the laser light emitted from the plurality of laser generators are transmitted and irradiated to the fluorescent member. And a condensing lens. Thereby, since one (common) condensing lens should just be adjusted with respect to several laser generators, the manufacturing time of a laser irradiation apparatus can be shortened. In addition, since a common condenser lens is provided for a plurality of laser generators, the number of parts can be reduced and the size can be reduced.

  Further, as described above, since the condensing lens does not condense the laser light in the first direction, it is not necessary to perform optical adjustment between the laser generator and the condensing lens in the first direction. Thereby, optical adjustment with a laser generator and a condensing lens can be performed more easily, and the manufacturing time of a laser irradiation apparatus can be shortened more. Moreover, since the condensing lens condenses the laser light in the second direction intersecting the first direction, the length of the irradiation region of the fluorescent member in the second direction can be controlled by the condensing lens.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to easily obtain a light projecting device and a laser irradiation device capable of reducing the manufacturing time.

It is sectional drawing which showed the structure of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is the perspective view which showed the structure of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is the perspective view which showed the structure of the laser generator of the light projection apparatus of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is the perspective view which showed the structure of the semiconductor laser element of the light projection apparatus of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the laser beam radiate | emitted from the semiconductor laser element of the light projection apparatus of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating arrangement | positioning of the semiconductor laser element of the light projection apparatus of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is the perspective view which showed the state which attached the condensing lens to the laser generator of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is the perspective view which showed the structure of the condensing lens of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a side view for demonstrating advancing of the laser beam which injected into the condensing lens of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a top view for demonstrating advancing of the laser beam which injected into the condensing lens of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed the irradiation area | region of the fluorescent member of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing which showed the structure of the fluorescence member periphery of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the reflection member of the light projector of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the light projection pattern obtained by the light projection apparatus of 1st Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating arrangement | positioning of the semiconductor laser element of the light projection apparatus of 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is the figure which showed the irradiation area | region of the fluorescent member of the light projector of 2nd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the light projection apparatus of 2nd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 15, and the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member. It is a figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the light projection apparatus of 2nd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 15, and the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member. It is a figure for demonstrating the light radiate | emitted from the light projector of 2nd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the light radiate | emitted from the light projector of 2nd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the light projection apparatus of 2nd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 15, and the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member. It is a figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the light projection apparatus of 2nd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 15, and the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member. It is a figure for demonstrating arrangement | positioning of the semiconductor laser element of the light projection apparatus of 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the light projection apparatus of 3rd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 23, and the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member. It is a figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the light projection apparatus of 3rd Embodiment of this invention shown in FIG. 23, and the irradiation area | region of a fluorescent member. It is sectional drawing which showed the structure of the light projector of 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing which showed the structure of the light projector of 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing which showed the structure of the light projector of 6th Embodiment of this invention. It is the figure which showed the irradiation area | region of the fluorescent member of the light projection apparatus of the modification of this invention.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In order to facilitate understanding, hatching may be performed even in a cross-sectional view, or hatching may be performed even in a cross-sectional view.

(First embodiment)
First, with reference to FIGS. 1-13, the structure of the light projector 1 by 1st Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated. In order to simplify the drawing, the number of semiconductor laser elements 11 may be omitted.

  The floodlight device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is used, for example, as a headlamp (lamp) that illuminates the front of an automobile or the like. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the light projecting device 1 emits fluorescence emitted from a laser generator 10 that functions as a laser light source (excitation light source) and a phosphor excited by the laser light emitted from the laser generator 10. And a light projecting unit 20 that projects forward (direction A). In FIG. 2, a mounting portion 24 b and a support plate 25 described later of the light projecting unit 20 are omitted for easy understanding.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the laser generator 10 includes a plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 (laser generator), a heat spreader 12 on which the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are mounted using solder or the like (not shown), and these And a metal storage member 13 for storing the battery.

  The heat spreader 12 functions as a heat radiating member that radiates heat generated from the semiconductor laser element 11 and also functions as a mounting substrate on which a plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are mounted. The heat spreader 12 is formed of, for example, a flat plate made of silicon carbide, and the surface thereof is coated with Au. Further, the heat spreader 12 is soldered to a mounting portion 13c described later of the storage member 13. On the mounting surface of the heat spreader 12, a plurality of electrode patterns (not shown) that are electrically connected to the semiconductor laser element 11 are formed. On the mounting surface of the heat spreader 12, a plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are arranged and mounted in the C direction (first direction). The C direction is a direction (substantially a short axis direction) orthogonal to a long axis direction (described later) of the laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser element 11. In this embodiment, all (for example, 11) semiconductor laser elements 11 are mounted on the same substrate (heat spreader 12), and are arranged in the same plane (a plane including the short axis of the laser beam).

  The semiconductor laser element 11 is, for example, a wide stripe laser, and emits laser light that functions as excitation light. The semiconductor laser element 11 is configured to emit blue-violet laser light having a center wavelength of about 405 nm, for example. As shown in FIG. 4, the semiconductor laser element 11 has, for example, a width (W11) of about 200 μm, a thickness (T11) of about 100 μm, and a length (L11) of about 1000 μm.

In addition, the semiconductor laser device 11 includes a substrate 11a made of n-type GaN having a thickness of about 100 μm, a buffer layer 11b made of n-type GaN having a thickness of about 0.5 μm formed on the substrate 11a, and a layer thickness of about 2 μm. A lower cladding layer 11c made of n-type Al _0.05 Ga _0.95 N, an active layer 11d made of multiple quantum wells of InGaN, and a p-type Al _{0.05 having} a layer thickness of about 0.5 μm (thickest part). And an upper clad layer 11e made of Ga _0.95 N.

A ridge extending in the Z direction (the length direction of the semiconductor laser element 11) is provided at a predetermined position of the upper cladding layer 11e. On this ridge, a contact layer 11f made of p-type GaN having a layer thickness of about 0.1 μm and an electrode 11g made of Pd are formed. Further, the upper surface of the upper clad layer 11e, an insulating film 11h made of SiO ₂ so as to cover the side surface of the contact layer 11f and an electrode 11g is formed. A pad electrode 11i that covers the ridge and is in ohmic contact with the electrode 11g is formed in a predetermined region on the insulating film 11h. A back electrode 11j made of Hf / Al is formed on the lower surface of the substrate 11a.

  The pad electrode 11 i of each semiconductor laser element 11 is electrically connected to an electrode pattern (not shown) of the heat spreader 12 via an Au wire 14. The back electrode 11j of each semiconductor laser element 11 is electrically connected to an electrode pattern (not shown) of the heat spreader 12 via a solder layer (not shown). Note that it is the ridge width (W11a in FIG. 4) of the upper cladding layer 11e that defines the width of the light emitting portion 11k (see FIG. 5) of the semiconductor laser element 11, and this ridge width is set to 10 μm, for example. In this case, the width of the light emitting portion 11k is about 10 μm. Further, the laser generator 10 is provided with lead wires (not shown) for electrically connecting the electrode pattern of the heat spreader 12 and a power supply unit 30 described later.

  When a direct current is applied between the pad electrode 11i and the back electrode 11j of the semiconductor laser element 11, as shown in FIG. 5, the X direction (the width direction of the semiconductor laser element 11) and the Y direction (the thickness of the semiconductor laser element 11). Laser light that spreads in an elliptical shape in the direction) is emitted from the light emitting unit 11k. The light intensity distribution of the elliptical light projected on the XY plane perpendicular to the traveling direction (Z direction) of the laser light is a Gaussian distribution in both the X direction and the Y direction. The full width at half maximum (θx) of the light intensity distribution in the X direction is about 10 °, the full width at half maximum (θy) of the light intensity distribution in the Y direction is about 20 °, and the spread angle of the laser light is larger in the Y direction than in the X direction. About twice as large. As a result, the laser light travels while spreading with the X direction as the minor axis direction and the Y direction as the major axis direction.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are arranged so that the optical axes I of the respective laser beams emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 approach each other as the distance from the semiconductor laser element 11 increases. In this embodiment, the intersection of the optical axis I of each laser beam emitted from a plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 and transmitted through a condenser lens 21 described later and an irradiation surface 22a of a fluorescent member 22 described later is one point. A plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are arranged. For example, the distance Ls from the semiconductor laser element 11m arranged at the center to the center of the irradiation region S is set to about 10 mm. The plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 may be arranged such that the distances from the respective semiconductor laser elements 11 to the center of the irradiation region S are substantially equal.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the storage member 13 is formed in a cylindrical shape having an opening on the laser beam emission side, and includes a cylindrical portion 13a, a lid portion 13b, and a placement portion 13c. By forming the storage member 13 in a cylindrical shape instead of a box shape, the strength of the storage member 13 can be easily improved, and the circumferential angle of the storage member 13 can be easily adjusted. Become. A cover member 15 (see FIG. 1) having a function of transmitting laser light is attached to the opening of the storage member 13, and an inert gas is sealed inside the storage member 13. The cover member 15 is formed of, for example, a glass plate. The storage member 13 may be provided with heat radiating fins (not shown), and the storage member 13 may be air-cooled, for example. 3 and 7, the cover member 15 is omitted.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, a condenser lens 21 described later of the light projecting unit 20 is fixed to a predetermined position of the cover member 15 via a transparent adhesive layer 16. As a result, the laser light emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 enters the condenser lens 21. The laser generator 10 and the condenser lens 21 constitute the “laser irradiation device” of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a power supply unit 30 that supplies power to the semiconductor laser element 11 is connected to the laser generator 10. The power supply unit 30 is configured to be able to be driven by energizing the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 individually. In the present embodiment, the power supply unit 30 may be configured not to individually drive the semiconductor laser element 11. The power supply unit 30 is connected to a control unit 31 that controls the entire light projecting device 1, and is configured to switch driving / stopping of the semiconductor laser element 11 based on a control signal from the control unit 31. . The control unit 31 is connected to a main switch (not shown) operated by the driver to turn on / off the light projecting device 1, for example.

  When about 55 W of power is supplied to the laser generator 10, the illuminance at the center position (maximum illuminance point) 25 m ahead of the light projecting device 1 is about 220 lux (lx). This is sufficient illuminance as a high beam (traveling headlamp) for automobiles.

  The light projecting unit 20 is disposed on the laser beam emission side of the laser generator 10 (semiconductor laser element 11), and a condenser lens 21 that transmits the laser beam from the laser generator 10 and a laser beam emitted from the condenser lens 21. A fluorescent member 22 that converts at least a portion of the light into fluorescent light and emits the light; a reflective member 23 (light projecting member) that reflects the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent member 22 in a predetermined direction (A direction); and a fluorescent member And an attachment member 24 to which 22 is fixed. Note that a filter member (not shown) that blocks (absorbs or reflects) excitation light and transmits fluorescence may be provided at the opening (end in the A direction) of the reflection member 23. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the laser light from leaking outside the light projecting device 1.

  The condenser lens 21 is made of translucent glass or resin. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the condenser lens 21 is formed of a cylindrical lens, and includes a light incident surface 21a on which laser light emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 is incident, and light emission for emitting laser light. Surface 21b.

  The light incident surface 21a is formed by a substantially rectangular flat surface having a height (H21a) of, for example, 1.8 mm. The light emitting surface 21b is formed by a curved surface having a radius of curvature of R1.0 mm, for example. An anti-reflection (AR) film (not shown) may be formed on the light incident surface 21a.

  This condensing lens 21 does not condense the laser light in the C direction (horizontal direction), but condenses the laser light in the D direction (second direction) orthogonal to (intersects) the C direction. In other words, the condenser lens 21 does not change the radiation angle in the C direction of the laser light, but decreases the radiation angle in the D direction of the laser light.

  Here, the progression of the laser light incident on the condenser lens 21 will be briefly described. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser element 11 travels while spreading in the long axis direction (D direction) and the short axis direction (C direction), and the light incident surface of the condenser lens 21. Incident on 21a. Then, the laser light is emitted from the light emitting surface 21 b and is irradiated on the fluorescent member 22. At this time, the laser beam is not condensed in the C direction, but is condensed only in the D direction. At this time, as shown in FIG. 6, each laser beam is applied to one point on the fluorescent member 22. Then, as shown in FIG. 11, the irradiation region S of the fluorescent member 22 has an elliptical shape extending in the C direction. Specifically, since the spread angle in the C direction of the laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser element 11 is originally small, the length Lc in the C direction of the irradiation region S extends only to about 1.7 mm. On the other hand, since the laser beam emitted from the semiconductor laser element 11 is condensed in the D direction by the condenser lens 21, the length Ld in the D direction of the irradiation region S is smaller than Lc (for example, about 1/3). .

  In the light projecting device 1, the length Lc in the C direction of the irradiation region S of the fluorescent member 22 is determined by the distance Ls (see FIG. 6) from the semiconductor laser element 11 to the fluorescent member 22, and the condenser lens 21. Thus, the length Ld in the D direction of the irradiation region S of the fluorescent member 22 is determined.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the center line O21 in the D direction of the condenser lens 21 is an angle α1 (for example, about 30 degrees) with respect to a perpendicular N22 of an irradiation surface 22a (described later) of the fluorescent member 22 in the B direction ( It is inclined in the direction opposite to the light projecting direction (direction A). Further, a gap (space) is formed between the light emitting surface 21 b of the condenser lens 21 and the irradiation surface 22 a of the fluorescent member 22. Note that the light projecting direction is a direction toward the most illuminating portion, for example, 25 m ahead of the light projecting device 1, and is, for example, a direction from the center of the opening of the reflecting surface 23a toward the maximum illuminance point 25 m ahead.

  The fluorescent member 22 has an irradiation surface 22a on which laser light is irradiated. The back surface of the fluorescent member 22 (the surface opposite to the irradiation surface 22a) is in contact with a support plate 25 made of aluminum. The fluorescent member 22 is formed by being deposited on the support plate 25 by, for example, electrophoresis. The support plate 25 has a width of about 10 mm, a length of about 10 mm, and a thickness of about 1 mm. The fluorescent member 22 has a width of about 10 mm, a length of about 10 mm, and a uniform thickness of about 0.1 mm. As shown in FIG. 11, the central portion of the irradiation surface 22 a of the fluorescent member 22 is irradiated with the laser beam condensed through the condenser lens 21. The fluorescent member 22 is excited in an elliptical shape that is long in the C direction, and fluorescence is emitted from the elliptical region (irradiation region S). In addition, the width | variety and length of the fluorescent member 22 and the support plate 25 are not limited above, It can change suitably according to the size of the irradiation area | region S irradiated with a laser beam. For example, it is also possible to irradiate the entire irradiation surface 22 a of the fluorescent member 22 with the fluorescent member 22 having only the area corresponding to the area irradiated with the laser light.

The fluorescent member 22 is formed using, for example, three types of phosphor particles that convert blue-violet light (excitation light) into red light, green light, and blue light, respectively, and emit. Examples of the phosphor that converts blue-violet light into red light include CaAlSiN ₃ : Eu. Examples of the phosphor that converts blue-violet light into green light include β-SiAlON: Eu. Examples of the phosphor that converts blue-violet light into blue light include (Ba, Sr) MgAl ₁₀ O ₁₇ : Eu. These phosphors are held together by an inorganic binder (such as silica or TiO ₂ ). The red light, green light, and blue light emitted from the fluorescent member 22 are mixed to obtain white light. Note that red light is light having a center wavelength of about 640 nm, for example, and green light is light having a center wavelength of about 520 nm, for example. Blue light is light having a center wavelength of about 450 nm, for example.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the fluorescent member 22 is disposed in a region including the focal point F23 of the reflecting surface 23a of the reflecting member 23, and the center of the irradiation surface 22a of the fluorescent member 22 is the same as the focal point F23 of the reflecting surface 23a. It is almost coincident. The fluorescent member 22 may be disposed in the vicinity of the focal point F23 of the reflecting surface 23a of the reflecting member 23. Further, as shown in FIG. 12, the irradiation surface 22a of the fluorescent member 22 is inclined upward by an angle β1 (for example, about 27 degrees) in the light projecting direction (A direction).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the reflecting surface 23 a of the reflecting member 23 is disposed so as to face the irradiation surface 22 a of the fluorescent member 22. Moreover, the reflective surface 23a is formed so that a part of paraboloid may be included, for example. Specifically, the reflecting surface 23a is a surface that divides the paraboloid by a plane orthogonal to (intersects) the axis connecting the vertex V23 and the focal point F23, and parallel to the axis connecting the vertex V23 and the focal point F23. It is formed in the shape divided by. The reflecting surface 23a is formed in a substantially semicircular shape having a depth of about 30 mm (length in the B direction) and a radius of about 30 mm when viewed from the light projecting direction (A direction).

  The reflecting surface 23a has a function of reflecting light from the fluorescent member 22 in a predetermined direction (A direction). Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 13, a through hole 23 b is formed in a portion in the B direction from the center of the fluorescent member 22 in the reflecting member 23. The through hole 23 b is provided to allow the laser light from the semiconductor laser element 11 disposed outside the reflecting member 23 to pass through and reach the fluorescent member 22.

  The reflecting member 23 may be made of metal or may be formed by providing a reflecting film on the surface of the resin.

  An attachment member 24 is fixed to the reflection member 23. The upper surface 24a of the mounting member 24 is preferably formed so as to have a function of reflecting light. The attachment member 24 is formed of a metal having good thermal conductivity such as Al or Cu, and has a function of radiating heat generated in the fluorescent member 22. In addition, an attachment portion 24 b for fixing the fluorescent member 22 and the support plate 25 is integrally formed on the upper surface 24 a of the attachment member 24. As shown in FIG. 12, the mounting surface 24c of the mounting portion 24b is inclined upward by an angle β1 (for example, about 27 degrees) in the light projecting direction (A direction). In addition, it is preferable that a heat radiating fin (not shown) is provided on the lower surface of the mounting member 24.

  Next, a light projection pattern of light emitted from the light projecting device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 14, the light projection pattern P projected on the virtual screen will be described on the assumption that the virtual screen is arranged at a position 25 m ahead of the light projecting device 1. The light projection pattern P of the light projected by the reflecting member 23 reflects the shape of the irradiation region S of the fluorescent member 22 and has an elliptical shape in which the length in the horizontal direction (C direction) is larger than the length in the vertical direction ( Landscape shape). This horizontally long light projecting pattern P has a shape suitable for efficiently illuminating the center of the road and the left and right sidewalks and road signs when the light projecting device 1 is used as a headlight of an automobile. . Note that the illuminance of the central region R1 (region directly in front of the automobile) of the light projection pattern P is the highest, and the illuminance decreases as the distance from the region R1 increases. That is, the illuminance decreases in the order of the regions R1, R2, and R3.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the condenser lens 21 that transmits the laser light emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 and irradiates the fluorescent member 22 is provided. Accordingly, one (common) condenser lens 21 may be adjusted for the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11, and thus the manufacturing time of the light projecting device 1 can be shortened. In addition, since the common condenser lens 21 is provided for the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11, the number of parts can be reduced and the size can be reduced.

  Further, as described above, since the condensing lens 21 does not condense laser light in the C direction, it is not necessary to perform optical adjustment between the semiconductor laser element 11 and the condensing lens 21 in the C direction. Thereby, optical adjustment with the semiconductor laser element 11 and the condensing lens 21 can be performed more easily, and the manufacturing time of the light projector 1 can be shortened more. In addition, since the condenser lens 21 condenses the laser light in the D direction, the length Ld of the irradiation region S of the fluorescent member 22 in the D direction can be controlled by the condenser lens 21. Further, since the condensing lens 21 does not condense the laser light in the C direction but condenses only in the D direction, the irradiation region S of the fluorescent member 22 can be easily formed into a horizontally long shape, and the light projection pattern P Can be easily formed into a horizontally long shape.

  Further, as described above, by arranging the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 in the C direction, variations in the D direction of the laser beams emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 can be eliminated. In addition, by arranging a plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11, the laser generator 10 can be easily downsized.

  Further, as described above, the fluorescent member 22 is irradiated with the laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser element 11 using only the condenser lens 21. Thereby, the loss of the laser beam can be sufficiently reduced, and about 98% of the laser beam emitted from the semiconductor laser element 11 can reach the fluorescent member.

  As described above, the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are provided on the same substrate (heat spread 12). As a result, a plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 arranged in the same plane can be easily obtained, and variations in the D direction of the laser beams emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 can be easily eliminated.

  As described above, the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are arranged in a direction (substantially short axis direction) orthogonal to the long axis direction of the laser light. Thereby, the laser beam can be condensed in the major axis direction (D direction) by the condenser lens 21. Thereby, since it can suppress that the irradiation area | region S of the fluorescent member 22 becomes large in a major axis direction, it is especially effective.

  Further, as described above, the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are arranged so that the optical axes I of the respective laser beams emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 approach each other as the distance from the semiconductor laser element 11 increases. Thereby, it can suppress that the irradiation area | region S of the fluorescent member 22 becomes large in a C direction.

  Further, as described above, by providing the reflecting member 23, the light emitted from the fluorescent member 22 can be easily projected in a predetermined direction.

  Further, as described above, the reflecting member 23 is formed with a through hole 23 b that allows the laser light from the semiconductor laser element 11 to pass through and reaches the fluorescent member 22. Thereby, the fluorescent light 22 can be easily irradiated with the laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser element 11 disposed outside the reflecting member 23.

  Further, as described above, the condenser lens 21 is formed of a cylindrical lens. Thereby, the condensing lens 21 can be easily formed so as to transmit the laser light emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 arranged in the C direction and irradiate the fluorescent member 22. Further, the condensing lens 21 can be easily formed so that the laser beam is not condensed in the C direction but in the D direction.

  Further, as described above, the cover member 15 is attached to the opening of the storage member 13, and the condenser lens 21 is fixed to the cover member 15. Thereby, optical adjustment of the semiconductor laser element 11 and the condensing lens 21 can be performed more easily. In addition, since the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 and the condensing lens 21 can be handled as one component after the condensing lens 21 is fixed to the cover member 15, the light projecting device 1 can be manufactured more easily. Can do.

(Second Embodiment)
In the second embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 15 to 22, unlike the first embodiment, a case where there are a plurality of intersections between the optical axis I of the laser beam and the irradiation surface 22a of the fluorescent member 22 will be described. To do.

  First, with reference to FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, the structure of the light projection apparatus by 2nd Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated.

  In the light projecting device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 15, the optical axis I of each laser beam emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 and transmitted through the condenser lens 21 and the irradiation surface 22 a of the fluorescent member 22. A plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are arranged so that there are a plurality of points of intersection with. In the present embodiment, the same number of intersections between the optical axis I of each laser beam and the irradiation surface 22 a of the fluorescent member 22 are provided as in the semiconductor laser element 11.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the irradiation areas S excited by the respective laser beams are arranged at a pitch (Lp1) of about 0.5 mm in the C direction. For this reason, when all (for example, 11) semiconductor laser elements 11 are energized and driven, the irradiation surface 22a of the fluorescent member 22 is excited with a width (Ls1) of about 6.7 mm in the C direction. In the present embodiment, the fluorescent member 22 is formed in an elongated shape extending in the C direction.

  The power supply unit 30 is configured to be able to be driven by energizing the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 individually.

  The control unit 31 is connected not only to the main switch of the light projecting device but also to a switch for driving / stopping the direction indicator and a rudder angle detector for detecting the steering angle of the steering (handle).

  The remaining structure of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

  Next, the operation of the light projecting device and the irradiation region S of the fluorescent member 22 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In this light projecting device, when the main switch of the light projecting device is turned on by the driver, the control unit 31 energizes and drives only the inner seven of the plural (for example, eleven) semiconductor laser elements 11. Is done. That is, two of the semiconductor laser elements 11 at both ends are not driven. In this case, the fluorescent member 22 is excited as shown in FIG. The hatched irradiation area S in FIGS. 17, 18, 21, and 22 indicates that the excitation light is irradiated, and the irradiation area S that is not hatched (irradiation area S indicated by a broken line). Indicates that no excitation light is irradiated.

  Next, when the vehicle turns right, when the driver turns on the right turn direction indicator or the handle is operated to the right turn side, the control unit 31 causes the semiconductor laser element 11 to Two of the right end portions are energized and driven. In this case, the fluorescent member 22 is excited as shown in FIG.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 19, the light emitted from the portion of the fluorescent member 22 corresponding to the focal point F23 of the reflecting surface 23a is collimated and projected by the reflecting surface 23a. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 20, light emitted from a position shifted to the right (C direction) from the focal point F23 of the reflecting surface 23a is projected in a state of being spread to the right (C direction) by the reflecting surface 23a. . For this reason, when the fluorescent member 22 is excited as shown in FIG. 18, the light projection pattern P of the light emitted from the light projecting device spreads to the right (C direction). That is, it becomes possible to illuminate the direction in which the automobile bends.

  On the other hand, when the left turn direction indicator switch is turned on by the driver or when the steering wheel is operated to the left turn side when the automobile turns left, the control unit 31 causes the control unit 31 to select one of the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11. Two of the left end portions are energized and driven. In this case, the fluorescent member 22 is excited as shown in FIG. Thereby, the light projection pattern P of the light emitted from the light projecting device spreads to the left side.

  In addition, you may comprise so that all the semiconductor laser elements 11 can be driven irrespective of a right turn or a left turn. In this case, as shown in FIG. 22, the fluorescent member 22 is excited, and a wider area can be illuminated on the left and right. For example, when an automobile travels at a high speed, only the inner semiconductor laser element 11 of the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 is driven, and only a portion near the focal point F23 of the fluorescent member 22 may be excited. . In this case, it is possible to suppress unnecessary illumination of the left and right regions. For example, when a car travels at a low speed in an urban area or the like, all the semiconductor laser elements 11 may be driven to illuminate a wide area on the left and right. If a vehicle speed sensor that detects the speed of the automobile is connected to the control unit 31, it is possible to easily control the illumination area (projection area) of the floodlight according to the speed of the automobile.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, there are a plurality of intersections between the optical axis I of each laser beam emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 and transmitted through the condenser lens 21 and the irradiation surface 22a of the fluorescent member 22. The plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are individually energized and driven. Thereby, since the irradiation area | region S (excitation pattern of the fluorescent member 22) of the fluorescent member 22 can be changed, the light projection pattern P of the light radiate | emitted from the light projector 1 can be changed.

  Other effects of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

(Third embodiment)
In the third embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 23 to 25, a case where the light projecting apparatus serves as a headlamp (lamp) and a direction indicator (lamp) will be described, unlike the second embodiment. In this embodiment, in order to simplify the description, a case where the light projecting device serves as both a headlamp and a right turn direction indicator will be described. However, the light projecting device serves as a headlight and a left turn direction. In the case of serving also as an indicator, the structure of the light projecting device may be reversed left and right.

  First, with reference to FIG. 23, the structure of the light projector by 3rd Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated.

  The light projecting device according to the third embodiment of the present invention includes fluorescent members 122a and 122b as shown in FIG. The fluorescent member 122a emits white light (for example, three types of light of red light, green light, and blue light) when irradiated with excitation light (laser light) (for example, red phosphor and green phosphor). And three types of phosphors of blue phosphor). The fluorescent member 122b includes an orange phosphor that emits orange light when irradiated with excitation light (laser light). The white phosphor functions as a light source for the headlamp, and the orange phosphor functions as a light source for the direction indicator. An example of the orange phosphor is α-SiAlON: Eu.

  In the present embodiment, the intersections between the optical axis I of each laser beam emitted from the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 and transmitted through the condenser lens 21 and the irradiation surfaces of the fluorescent members 122a and 122b are a plurality of points (for example, two points). As described above, a plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are arranged. Specifically, for example, nine of the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 from the left end are arranged to irradiate the fluorescent member 122a, and the remaining two (two at the right end) are fluorescent. It arrange | positions so that the member 122b may be irradiated. That is, the plurality of intersections include a point that emits white light when irradiated with laser light and a point that emits orange light when irradiated with laser light.

  The fluorescent member 122a is disposed in a region including the focal point F23 of the reflecting surface 23a of the reflecting member 23. On the other hand, the fluorescent member 122b is disposed on the right side from the focal point F23 of the reflecting surface 23a of the reflecting member 23 at a predetermined distance. The direction indicator projects orange light in a wide angle range, and it is not necessary to project orange light in a predetermined direction. Therefore, the fluorescent member 122b reflects more than the position shown in FIG. You may arrange | position away from the focus F23 of the surface 23a.

  The remaining structure of the third embodiment is similar to that of the aforementioned second embodiment.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 24 and 25, the operation of the light projecting device and the irradiation region S of the fluorescent members 122a and 122b will be described.

  In this light projecting device, when the main switch of the light projecting device is turned on by the driver, nine of the plural (for example, eleven) semiconductor laser elements 11 are energized from the left end portion by the control unit 31. Driven. That is, only two of the right end portions of the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 are not driven. In this case, the fluorescent member 122a is excited as shown in FIG. 24 and 25, the hatched irradiation region S indicates that the excitation light is irradiated, and the irradiation region S that is not hatched (the irradiation region S indicated by the broken line) is irradiated with the excitation light. Indicates that it is not.

  Next, when the right turn direction indicator switch is turned on by the driver when the vehicle turns right, the control unit 31 drives the two right end portions of the plurality of semiconductor laser elements 11 to blink. Is done. In this case, the state of FIG. 24 and the state of FIG. 25 are repeated, and the light projector functions as a headlamp and also functions as a direction indicator.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the fluorescent member 122a including a white phosphor that emits white light when irradiated with laser light, and the orange phosphor that emits orange light when irradiated with laser light. The white phosphor functions as a light source for a headlight for an automobile, and the orange phosphor functions as a light source for a direction indicator for an automobile. Thereby, since one light projector can serve as a headlamp and a direction indicator, it is particularly effective.

  Other effects of the third embodiment are the same as those of the second embodiment.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 26, the structure of the light projection apparatus 201 by 4th Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated.

  In the light projecting device 201 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 26, the light projecting unit 220 includes a condenser lens 21, a fluorescent member 22, a reflecting member 23, and a support member that supports the fluorescent member 22. 224 and a lens 240 (light projecting member) that transmits the light emitted from the fluorescent member 22 and reflected by the reflecting member 23.

  In the present embodiment, the reflecting surface 23a of the reflecting member 23 is formed so as to include a part of an elliptical surface. Specifically, the reflecting surface 23a is formed in a shape that is obtained by dividing an elliptical surface by a surface that is orthogonal (intersects) with an axis connecting the first focal point F23a and the second focal point F23b. The reflection surface 23a has a depth of about 30 mm (length in the B direction) and is formed in a circular shape having a radius of about 30 mm when viewed from the light projecting direction (A direction). A through hole 23 b is formed at the apex portion of the reflecting member 23.

  In the present specification and claims, the first focus refers to a focus closer to the top of the reflecting surface, and the second focus refers to the focus far from the top of the reflecting surface. say.

  The fluorescent member 22 is disposed in a region including the first focal point F23a of the reflecting surface 23a of the reflecting member 23. The fluorescent member 22 is provided on a support member 224 made of, for example, metal. For example, the fluorescent member 22 is formed by applying a resin containing phosphor particles on the support member 224 and curing it. The support member 224 is fixed to the reflection surface 23 a of the reflection member 23. The support member 224 may be formed of, for example, glass or resin that transmits light emitted from the fluorescent member 22. Note that if the support member 224 is made of metal, it is possible to efficiently dissipate heat generated in the fluorescent member 22. On the other hand, if the support member 224 is formed of transparent glass or resin, light can be prevented from being blocked by the support member 224, and light use efficiency can be improved.

  The lens 240 (light projecting member) is disposed in front of the reflecting member 23. The lens 240 has a radius of about 30 mm. The focal point F240 of the lens 240 and the second focal point F23b of the reflecting surface 23a of the reflecting member 23 substantially coincide with each other. The lens 240 may be a plano-convex lens, a biconvex lens, or other shapes.

  In the present embodiment, the light emitted from the fluorescent member 22 is reflected by the reflecting surface 23a of the reflecting member 23, passes through the second focal point F23b of the reflecting surface 23a, and is projected by the lens 240.

  Other structures of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first to third embodiments.

  In the present embodiment, by providing the lens 240 as described above, the light emitted from the fluorescent member 22 can be easily projected in a predetermined direction. When light is projected using the lens 240, the light projection pattern P more easily reflects the shape of the irradiation region S than when light is projected by the reflecting member 23 without providing the lens 240. .

  Other effects of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first to third embodiments.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 27, the structure of the light projector 301 by 5th Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated.

  In the light projecting device 301 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 27, the through hole 23b is not formed in the reflecting member 23, and the through hole 24d is formed in the mounting member 24. The laser generator 10 is disposed below the through hole 24d. A support plate 25 and a fluorescent member 22 are disposed above the through hole 24d. The support plate 25 is made of transparent glass or resin.

  The fluorescent member 22 of the present embodiment emits fluorescence from the back surface (surface opposite to the irradiation surface 22a) when irradiated with laser light. For example, if the thickness of the fluorescent member 22 is reduced or the density of the phosphor particles is reduced, the fluorescence can be easily emitted from the back surface.

  In the present embodiment, the light that has passed through the condenser lens 21 passes through the support plate 25 and is irradiated onto the irradiation surface 22 a of the fluorescent member 22. Then, the fluorescence is emitted from the surface opposite to the irradiation surface 22 a and is projected by the reflecting surface 23 a of the reflecting member 23.

  Other structures and effects of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the first to third embodiments.

(Sixth embodiment)
Next, with reference to FIG. 28, the structure of the light projection apparatus 401 by 6th Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated.

  In the light projecting device 401 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 28, the light projecting unit 420 includes the condenser lens 21, the fluorescent member 22, the support member 224, and the light emitted from the fluorescent member 22. And a transparent lens 240.

  The fluorescent member 22 emits fluorescence from the back surface (surface opposite to the irradiation surface 22a) when irradiated with laser light.

  The support member 224 is formed to transmit the light emitted from the fluorescent member 22. The support member 224 may be formed to shield (absorb) only the excitation light.

  The fluorescent member 22 is disposed in a region including the focal point F240 of the lens 240.

  In the light projecting device 401, the light emitted from the back surface of the fluorescent member 22 is projected by the lens 240.

  Other structures and effects of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the fourth embodiment.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description of the embodiments but by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of claims for patent.

  For example, in the said embodiment, although the example which used the light projector of this invention for the headlamp of the motor vehicle was shown, this invention is not restricted to this. You may use the light projection apparatus of this invention for the headlamp of an airplane, a ship, a robot, a motorcycle or a bicycle, and another moving body.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment showed about the example which applied the light projector of this invention to the headlamp, this invention is not limited to this. You may apply the light projector of this invention to a downlight or a spotlight, and another light projector.

  Moreover, although the example which converted excitation light into visible light was shown in the said embodiment, this invention is not limited to this, You may convert excitation light into light other than visible light. For example, when the excitation light is converted into infrared light, it can also be applied to a night illumination device of a security CCD camera.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the excitation light source (semiconductor laser element) and the fluorescent member are configured to emit white light or orange light has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The excitation light source and the fluorescent member may be configured to emit light other than white light or orange light.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which a semiconductor laser element is used as a laser generator that emits laser light has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a laser generator other than a semiconductor laser element may be used. .

  Moreover, the numerical value shown by the said embodiment is an example, and each numerical value is not limited.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a plurality of semiconductor laser elements are mounted on the same mounting board has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of laser element sections (laser generators) are formed on one semiconductor substrate. Container) may be formed.

In addition, the center wavelength of the laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser element of the above embodiment and the type of phosphor constituting the fluorescent member can be appropriately changed. For example, a semiconductor laser element that emits blue laser light having a center wavelength of about 450 nm and a phosphor that converts part of the blue laser light into yellow light may be used. In this case, white light is obtained by blue light and yellow light. As the phosphor that converts some of the blue laser light into yellow light, for example, _{(Y 1-x-y Gd} x Ce y) 3 Al 5 O 12 (0.1 ≦ x ≦ 0.55,0 .01 ≦ y ≦ 0.4). Moreover, the present invention is not limited to this, and the center wavelength of the laser light emitted from the semiconductor laser element may be arbitrarily selected in the range of ultraviolet light to visible light.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which a reflecting member or a lens is used as the light projecting member has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a prism or the like may be used in addition to the reflecting member or the lens.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment showed about the example which formed the reflective surface of the reflective member by a part of paraboloid or a part of elliptical surface, this invention is not limited to this. The reflecting surface may be formed by a multi-reflector composed of a large number of curved surfaces (for example, a parabolic surface) or a free curved surface reflector provided with a large number of fine flat surfaces.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the example which excited the fluorescent member horizontally long (shape long in a horizontal direction) was shown, this invention is not limited to this. The fluorescent member may be excited, for example, in a vertically long shape (long shape in the vertical direction) or in a long shape in the oblique direction.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which a plurality of semiconductor laser elements are arranged in a direction orthogonal to the long axis of the laser beam has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the plurality of semiconductor laser elements are configured to emit laser light. You may arrange in the direction orthogonal to a short axis.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment showed about the example in which the some semiconductor laser element is arrange | positioned so that the optical axis of each laser beam may mutually approach as it leaves | separates from a semiconductor laser element, this invention is not limited to this. A plurality of semiconductor laser elements may be arranged so that the optical axes of the laser beams are parallel, for example.

  In the above embodiment, an example in which the condenser lens is attached to the laser generator has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, you may attach a condensing lens to a reflective member or another member.

  Further, for example, in the second embodiment, an example in which a plurality of semiconductor laser elements are individually energized and driven is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. The plurality of semiconductor laser elements may be divided into three groups, for example, two at the left end, seven at the inner end, and two at the right end, and may be driven by energizing each group. Similarly, in the third embodiment, a plurality of semiconductor laser elements may be divided into two groups, for example, nine from the left end and two at the right end, and may be driven by energizing each group.

  In the second embodiment, the example in which the same number of intersections between the optical axis of each laser beam and the irradiation surface of the fluorescent member as the semiconductor laser element is provided, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, like the light projecting device according to the modification of the present invention shown in FIG. 29, the fluorescent member 22 may be provided with, for example, three irradiation areas Sc, S1, and Sr. Then, for example, the central region (irradiation region Sc) of the fluorescent member 22 is irradiated by the seven semiconductor laser elements on the inner side, and the left region (irradiation region) of the fluorescent member 22 by the two semiconductor laser elements at the left end. S1) may be irradiated, and the right region (irradiation region Sr) of the fluorescent member 22 may be irradiated by the two semiconductor laser elements at the right end. Also in this case, similarly to the second embodiment, it is possible to illuminate the front of the automobile and the direction in which the automobile bends.

  Further, a configuration obtained by appropriately combining the configurations of the above-described embodiment and modification examples is also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

1, 201, 301, 401 Projection device 11 Semiconductor laser element (laser generator)
12 Heat spreader (substrate)
13 Storage member 15 Cover member 21 Condensing lens 22, 122a, 122b Fluorescent member 22a Irradiation surface 23 Reflecting member (light projecting member)
23b Through hole 240 Lens (light projecting member)
I Optical axis

Claims (16)

A plurality of laser generators arranged in a first direction and emitting laser light;
A fluorescent member that emits fluorescence when irradiated with the laser beam;
A condenser lens that transmits laser light emitted from the plurality of laser generators and irradiates the fluorescent member;
A light projecting member that projects light emitted from the fluorescent member;
With
The condensing lens condenses the laser light in a second direction intersecting the first direction without condensing the laser light in the first direction.   The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of laser generators are provided on the same substrate.   The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of laser generators are arranged in a direction orthogonal to a major axis direction of the laser light.   The plurality of laser generators are arranged so that the optical axes of the laser beams emitted from the plurality of laser generators approach each other as they move away from the laser generator. The light projecting device according to any one of the above. The fluorescent member includes an irradiation surface irradiated with the laser beam,
5. The projection according to claim 4, wherein the intersection point between the optical axis of each laser beam emitted from the plurality of laser generators and transmitted through the condenser lens is one point. 6. Optical device. The fluorescent member includes an irradiation surface irradiated with the laser beam,
The intersection of the optical axis of each laser beam emitted from the plurality of laser generators and transmitted through the condenser lens and the irradiation surface of the fluorescent member is a plurality of points. The light projecting device according to claim 1.   The plurality of intersections include a point that emits white light when irradiated with the laser light and a point that emits orange light when irradiated with the laser light. The light projector described. The fluorescent member includes a white phosphor that emits white light when irradiated with the laser light, and an orange phosphor that emits orange light when irradiated with the laser light,
The white phosphor functions as a light source for a vehicle headlamp,
The light projecting device according to claim 7, wherein the orange phosphor functions as a light source of a direction indicator for a vehicle.   The light projecting device according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of laser generators are individually driven.   The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the light projecting member includes a reflective member that reflects light emitted from the fluorescent member.   The light projecting device according to claim 10, wherein the reflecting member is formed with a through hole through which the laser light from the laser generator passes and reaches the fluorescent member.   The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the light projecting member includes a lens that transmits light emitted from the fluorescent member.   The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the condenser lens includes a cylindrical lens. A housing member that houses the plurality of laser generators and that has an opening on the laser light emission side;
A cover member attached to the opening of the storage member and having a function of transmitting the laser beam;
With
The light projection device according to claim 1, wherein the condensing lens is fixed to the cover member.   The light projecting device according to claim 1, wherein the light projecting device is used as a vehicular lamp. A plurality of laser generators arranged in a first direction and emitting laser light;
A condenser lens that transmits laser light emitted from the plurality of laser generators and irradiates the fluorescent member;
With
The condensing lens does not condense the laser light in the first direction, and condenses the laser light in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

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