JP2019089494A - Lighting fixture for vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a lighting fixture for vehicle capable of reducing unevenness in light distribution in a driving visual field.SOLUTION: A lighting fixture 1 for vehicle according to the present invention comprises a light distribution control unit 50 which controls light distribution by varying a swivel angle of a left-side headlight unit 100L and a swivel angle of a right-side headlight unit 100R according to a turning direction of a vehicle 200, the left-side headlight unit 100L and right-side headlight unit 100R have a plurality of light emitting elements 40 arrayed in a right-left direction, respectively, and the light distribution control unit 50 controls the plurality of light emitting elements 40 so that when the vehicle 200 turns, a peak value of a light distribution of a headlight unit on the turning-directional side is less than a peak value of a light distribution of the headlight unit on the opposite side in the turning direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to a vehicle lamp.

BACKGROUND Conventionally, there is a vehicle lamp provided with a light distribution control device (ADB) that controls light distribution of left and right headlight units according to the position of a front vehicle.
In addition to ADB, there is a vehicle lamp equipped with a swivel control device that controls light distribution by rotating the left and right headlight units according to the turning direction of the host vehicle and changing the swivel angle (patent document 1).

JP, 2015-39993, A

  By the way, in a vehicle lamp provided with a swivel control device in addition to the ADB, especially when the headlight unit on the turning direction side is rotated at a larger ratio than the headlight unit on the opposite side of the turning direction When the angle difference between the swivel angle of the left headlight unit and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit opens according to the turning direction of the host vehicle, the unevenness of light distribution in the driving vision becomes remarkable, and the driver Has the problem of giving a sense of incongruity.

  This invention is made in view of such a situation, and an object of this invention is to provide the vehicle lamp which can reduce the nonuniformity of the light distribution in the driving | operation view at the time of turning.

The present invention is grasped by the following composition in order to achieve the above-mentioned object.
(1) The vehicle lamp of the present invention is provided with a light distribution control device that controls light distribution by changing the swivel angle of the left headlight unit and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit according to the turning direction of the vehicle. In the vehicle lamp, the left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each have a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the left-right direction, and the light distribution control device is configured to turn the vehicle when turning In the above, the plurality of light emitting elements are controlled such that the peak value of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side is lower than the peak value of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the opposite side of the turning direction.
(2) In the configuration of the above (1), the light distribution control device controls the plurality of light emitting elements so as to lower the peak value in accordance with a turning angle.
(3) In the configuration of the above (1) or (2), the light distribution control device may shift the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction to the opposite side in the turning direction. Control the light emitting element.
(4) In any one of the configurations (1) to (3), the light distribution control device is configured such that an angular difference between a swivel angle of the left headlight unit and a swivel angle of the right headlight unit is predetermined. When the angle is equal to or less than the angle, the light emitting element is controlled to shift the peak position of the light distribution in the left headlight unit and the right headlight unit to the turning direction side according to the increase of the turning angle, When the angle difference exceeds a predetermined angle, the plurality of light emitting elements are controlled so as to shift the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction to the opposite side in the turning direction according to the increase in the turning angle. .
(5) In the configuration of the above (1), the light distribution control device controls the plurality of light emitting elements so as to obtain a light distribution to add illuminance in front of the vehicle when the vehicle turns. .
(6) In any one of the configurations (1) to (5), the light distribution control device lowers the illuminance in the range that causes glare to the vehicle detected in the driving field of view when the vehicle turns. And control the plurality of light emitting elements.
(7) In any one of the configurations (1) to (6), the light distribution control device controls the plurality of light emitting elements without changing the total light amount in the light distribution.
(8) In the configuration according to any one of (1) to (7), the left headlight unit and the right headlight unit respectively have an upper light distribution unit and a road surface light distribution unit inside; The light distribution control device controls the upper light distribution unit.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the vehicle lamp which can reduce the nonuniformity of the light distribution in the driving | operation view at the time of turning can be provided.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory view of a vehicle provided with a vehicle lamp as viewed from above. It is explanatory drawing of a vehicle lamp, (a) is a front view, (b) is sectional drawing seen from the plane, (c) is sectional drawing seen from the side. It is explanatory drawing of a vehicle lamp provided with the road surface light distribution part L and the upper light distribution part H. FIG. FIG. 10 is an explanatory view of peak control, showing a change in light distribution from the vehicle lamp when the vehicle shifts from a straight going state to a sharp turning state through a turning state, and the figures shown in each row are From left, explanatory diagrams (a), (b) and (c) representing the traveling state of the vehicle, the swivel angle and duty map of the left headlight unit ((a1), (b1) and (c1)), They are a swivel angle and duty map ((a2), (b2), (c2)) and a light distribution ((a3), (b3), (c3)) of the right headlight unit. FIG. 17 is an explanatory view of front illumination securing control, showing a change in light distribution from the vehicle lamp when the vehicle changes from a straight going state to a sharp turning state through a turning state, and a diagram shown in each row Is an explanatory diagram (d, (e), (f)) representing the traveling state of the vehicle from the left (swing angle and duty map of the left headlight unit ((d1), (e1), (f1) And the swivel angle and duty map ((d2), (e2), (f2)) of the right headlight unit. FIG. 10 is an explanatory view of light shielding control, showing a change in light distribution from the vehicle lamp when the vehicle shifts from a straight going state to a sharp turning state through a turning state, and the figures shown in each row are From left, an explanatory view ((g), (h), (i)) representing the traveling state of the vehicle, a swivel angle and duty map ((g1), (h1), (i1)) of the left headlight unit and It is a swivel angle and duty map ((g2), (h2), (i2)) of a right side headlight unit.

  Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, modes for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter, referred to as “embodiments”) will be described in detail. The same elements are denoted by the same numbers or symbols throughout the description of the embodiments. In the embodiment, unless otherwise noted, “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “right”, “front”, and “rear” are directions as viewed from the driver riding the vehicle 200, respectively. Indicates In addition, the center side of the vehicle 200 is referred to as “in” and the outer side as “outside” with reference to the straight direction.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory view of a vehicle 200 provided with a vehicular lamp 1 as viewed from above. FIG. 2 is an explanatory view of the vehicular lamp 1, (a) is a front view, (b) is a cross-sectional view as viewed from a plane, and (c) is a cross-sectional view as viewed from a side. FIG. 3 is an explanatory view of the vehicle lamp 1 including the road surface light distribution unit L and the upper light distribution unit H. As shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle lamp 1 of the present embodiment is disposed in front of the vehicle 200, and in order to secure driving visibility at night etc., light from a light source is directed toward driving visibility in front of the vehicle 200. Irradiate. The vehicular lamp 1 has a left headlight unit 100L on the left front of the vehicle 200 and a right headlight unit 100R on the right front. The left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R may have a symmetrical structure.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, when one of the left headlamp unit 100L and the right headlamp unit 100R is described as a representative, the vehicular lamp 1 has a lens 10 and a lens housing for supporting the lens 10 20 and a plurality of light emitting elements 40 provided inside the lens housing 20. In the present embodiment, the light emitting elements 40 are LEDs or the like, and nine LEDs are linearly arranged in a line in the left-right direction. However, the number of light emitting elements 40 is not limited to nine and a plurality of light emitting elements 40 are in a matrix It may be arranged in In the following description, instead of the light emitting element 40, it may be described as an LED.

  Further, the vehicle lamp 1 is supported by the vehicle 200, and includes an actuator 30 having an output axis X in the vertical direction. The output shaft X is fixed to the lens housing 20, and the lens housing 20 and the lens 10 rotate in response to the rotation of the output shaft X.

  The swivel angle, which is the angle at which the lens housing 20 and the lens 10 rotate in the left-right direction, is common to the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R as shown in FIG. For example, it can be changed in the range of 18 °, inside the angle β (for example, 5 °).

  Further, the ratio of the swivel angle that changes according to the turning direction of the vehicle 200 when the swivel angle is in the range of the inner angle β, and the swing of the vehicle 200 when the swivel angle is in the range of the outer angle α. The ratio to the ratio of the swivel angle which changes according to the direction (hereinafter referred to as “swivel ratio”) may not be 1: 1. For example, when the vehicle 200 is curved at a turning angle (steering angle) of 5 ° to the right, the left headlight unit 100L rotates inward at a swivel angle of 5 °, and the right headlight unit 100R is outside. It may be pivoted at a swivel angle of 10 °. In this example, the swivel ratio is 1: 2.

  Therefore, for example, in the case where the range of the swivel angle is 18 ° and the angle β is 5 ° and the swivel ratio is 1: 2, assuming the turning state in the right curve, the left frontal illumination When the lamp unit 100L pivots inward to 5 °, which is the limit of the angle β, the right headlight unit 100R pivots outward by 10 °. From here, when the right curve becomes sharp and turns sharply, the swivel angle of left headlight unit 100L remains in the state of being turned inward to 5 ° which is the limit of angle β. The right headlight unit 100R pivots outward by more than 10 ° to 18 °. In the case of the left curve, the operation is symmetrical with this.

In addition, the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R respectively have an upper light distribution unit H (high beam) and a road surface light distribution unit L (low beam) inside, and the light distribution control device 50 The light distribution unit H and an actuator 30 for changing the swivel angle are controlled.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the left headlamp unit 100L and the right headlamp unit 100R are light sources each emitting light for road surface light distribution, and have one or more light emitting elements. A road surface light distribution unit L and an upper light distribution unit H having a plurality of light emitting elements 40 are provided. About the light distribution pattern from the road surface light distribution part L, illustration is omitted.
As described above, the swivel angle of the headlight unit can be changed according to the turning direction with the upper light distribution unit H and the road surface light distribution unit L integrally provided in a single headlight unit. It is possible to secure the driving vision in the direction well by the cooperation of the upper light distribution section H and the road surface light distribution section L, and even if the distribution of light in the driving vision is uneven due to the change of the swivel angle, By controlling, it is possible to reduce unevenness of light distribution.

Referring back to FIG. 2, as shown in FIG. 2 (c), the vehicular lamp 1 includes a light distribution control device 50 that controls light distribution.
The light distribution control device 50 includes an ADB that controls the plurality of light emitting elements 40 and a swivel control device that controls the actuator 30.
The light distribution control device 50 acquires information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control unit ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control device and ADB. .

  ADB dims the brightness of each LED by individually changing the duty ratio corresponding to each LED in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 by PWM control. The ADB refers to a duty map showing a distribution of duty ratios corresponding to each LED, and controls each LED based on the duty map. As the duty map, a plurality of patterns having different patterns are stored in advance in a storage device (not shown) in the light distribution control device 50 (see FIGS. 4 to 6). The duty map is changed according to the information on the turning direction of the vehicle 200 or the difference in swivel angle between the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R. Therefore, ADB controls light distribution by controlling the plurality of light emitting elements 40.

  Further, the light distribution control device 50 changes the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R according to the turning direction of the vehicle 200 by controlling the actuator 30 by the swivel control device. Control the light distribution.

  Thus, the light distribution control device 50 controls light distribution by the ADB and the swivel control device.

(Peak control)
Here, the control content of light distribution by the light distribution control device 50 will be described along a time series when the vehicle 200 transitions from a straight going state to a sharp turning state through a turning state using FIG. 4.
First, peak control for controlling the peak of the duty ratio in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 will be described.
In the following description, the case where the angle α is 18 °, the angle β is 5 °, and the swivel ratio is 1: 2 will be described. Moreover, although the state which is turning along the road R which the vehicle 200 curves to the right is demonstrated, it demonstrates similarly, when it curves to the left. Generally, when the swivel ratio is about 1: 2, the light distribution distribution obtained by superposing the light distribution distribution by the left headlight unit 100L and the light distribution distribution by the right headlight unit 100R only with the swivel control device. However, as the turning angle (steering angle) increases, two peaks may appear, and the unevenness of light distribution in the driving field of view (contrast between light and dark) may become noticeable. By appropriately controlling the vehicular lamp 1 by the ADB in addition to the swivel control device, it is possible to reduce the unevenness of light distribution without the two peaks becoming noticeable.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory view of peak control, for a vehicle when the vehicle 200 moves from a straight traveling state (see (a)) to a sharp turning state (see (c)) through a turning state (see (b)) The change of the light distribution from the lamp 1 is illustrated in figure. The figures shown in each row are explanatory diagrams (a, b, c) showing the traveling state of the vehicle 200 from the left, the swivel angle and duty map of the left headlight unit 100L ((a1 ), (B1), (c1), the swivel angle and duty map ((a2), (b2), (c2)) and the light distribution ((a3), (b3), (b3), (b3), (c3) of the right headlight unit 100R) c3)).

Each duty map is indicated by a bar graph in which a plurality of rectangular bars having different lengths are arranged, and the length of each bar in the bar graph corresponds to the duty ratio, that is, the light quantity (brightness) .
In addition, each bar in the bar graph corresponds to a plurality of LEDs (here, an example in which nine LEDs are arranged in a row) that constitutes the light emitting element 40, and the bars in the bar graph The positional relationship corresponds to the irradiation range.
Also, the arrow shown in the bar of the bar graph indicates the peak position which is the position of the LED with the largest duty ratio set in the same duty map. The length of the arrow represents the height of the bar, which is the size of the duty ratio of the LED with the largest duty ratio in the same duty map, and shows a peak value.

For example, in the duty map of (a1), the length of the leftmost rod represents the duty ratio of the LED that illuminates the leftmost range in the driving visibility in the left headlight unit 100L, and the rightmost rod The length of the left headlight unit 100L represents the duty ratio of the LED that illuminates the rightmost range in the driving vision. Similarly, in the duty map of (a2), the length of the leftmost bar represents the duty ratio of the LED that illuminates the leftmost range in the driving vision in the right headlight unit 100R, and the rightmost The length of the bar represents the duty ratio of the LED that illuminates the rightmost range in the driving vision in the right headlight unit 100R.
Further, in each of the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R, the central LED is at the peak position, and the peak values are equal.

  In each light distribution, the light distribution of the left headlight unit 100L is a broken line, and the light distribution of the right headlight unit 100R is a two-dot chain line. The light distribution of the left headlight unit 100L and the right A light distribution distribution obtained by superposing the light distribution distribution of the headlamp unit 100R is represented by a solid line.

  First, as shown in (a), (a1) and (a2) of FIG. 4, the vehicle 200 normally has the optical axis YL of the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit in plan view in a straight-ahead state. The optical axis YR of 100R is set to be substantially parallel to the straight direction. That is, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R are respectively set to zero.

At this time, the duty map of the left headlight unit 100L is set to a substantially symmetrical mountain shape having peaks at which the duty ratio of the central LED is the largest as shown in (a1). Similar to the duty map (a1) of the left headlight unit 100L, the duty map of the right headlight unit 100R is a substantially symmetrical mountain shape with the duty ratio of the central LED peaked as shown in (a2). Set to
Then, the light distribution control device 50 controls the swivel control device and the ADB according to the information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence or absence of preceding vehicle, etc.) acquired from the vehicle control device ECU.

  ADB individually sets the duty ratio corresponding to each LED in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 by PWM control with reference to the duty map stored in advance in the storage device corresponding to the traveling state (here, straight ahead state) And dim the brightness of each LED.

  On the other hand, the swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information on the turning direction input to the ADB, and according to the turning direction of the vehicle 200, the swivel angle and the right side of the left headlight unit 100L. The swivel angle of the headlight unit 100R is set to zero.

  And a light distribution is set as shown to (a3). That is, the light distribution obtained by overlapping the light distribution of the left headlight unit 100L (dotted line) and the light distribution of the right headlight unit 100R (two-dot chain line) so that there is no unevenness of light distribution in the driving field of view. The peak of the peak shape of the distribution (solid line) is set to be one without splitting into two due to the effect that the swivel ratio in the swivel controller is not 1: 1.

  Next, as shown in (b), (b1) and (b2) of FIG. 4, when the vehicle 200 moves from the straight state (a) to the turning state (b) along the road R, the light distribution control device 50 Acquires information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control unit ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control unit and the ADB.

  The swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information on the turning direction input to the ADB, and as shown in (b1) and (b2), the left side according to the turning direction of the vehicle 200. The swivel angle of the headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R are controlled. Here, for example, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 °, and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R is 10 °.

  On the other hand, ADB individually refers to a duty ratio corresponding to each LED in a plurality of light emitting elements 40 by PWM control with reference to a duty map stored in advance in a storage device corresponding to a traveling state (here, a turning state). Set to and dim the brightness of each LED.

At this time, as shown in (b1), the peak position of the left headlight unit 100L shifts to the right as compared with the duty map (a1).
At this time, the amount of shift of the peak position may be increased according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

Similarly, as shown in (b2), the duty map of the right headlight unit 100R shifts the peak position to the right as compared with the duty map (a2).
At this time, the amount of shift of the peak position may be increased according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

  Further, the peak value in the duty map (b2) of the right headlight unit 100R is lower than the peak value in the duty map (b1) of the left headlight unit 100L. The timing to start decreasing the peak value may be when the turning angle (steering angle) becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined angle or when the swivel angle becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined angle. In the duty map (b2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

  Then, as shown in (b3), the light distribution is a distribution in which the light distribution of the left headlight unit 100L (broken line) and the light distribution of the right headlight unit 100R (two-dot chain line) overlap. The peak of the peak shape of the light distribution (solid line) becomes one without splitting into two due to the effect that the swivel ratio in the swivel controller is not 1: 1. In addition, as shown to (b3), the light distribution in this case has shifted the whole to the turning direction side on the basis of the light distribution of (a3).

  As described above, when the vehicle 200 turns, the light distribution control device 50 controls the peak value of the light distribution of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction (right headlight unit 100R) to the headlight on the opposite side of the turning direction. Since a plurality of light emitting elements (each LED) are controlled to be lower than the peak value of light distribution in the lamp unit (left headlight unit 100L), even if the swivel ratio in the swivel controller is not 1: 1, the swivel is possible By appropriately controlling the control device and the ADB simultaneously, it is possible to suppress unevenness in light distribution in the driving view.

  Next, as shown in (c), (c1) and (c2) in FIG. 4, when the vehicle 200 passes through the turning state (b) along the road R and shifts to the sharp turning state (c), the light distribution control The device 50 acquires information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control unit ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control unit and the ADB.

  The swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information on the turning direction input to the ADB, and as shown in (c1) and (c2), the left side according to the turning direction of the vehicle 200. The swivel angle of the headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R are controlled.

  However, since the angle β is 5 °, that is, the range (limit) within which the left headlight unit 100L can pivot inward is 5 °, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 ° (( While maintained in the state c1), the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R increases from 10 ° (state (b2)) to 18 ° (state (c2)), which is the angle α. That is, here, for example, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 °, and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R is 18 °.

  On the other hand, ADB refers to the duty map corresponding to each LED in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 by PWM control with reference to the duty map stored in advance in the storage device corresponding to the traveling state (here, sudden turning state). Set individually and adjust the brightness of each LED.

At this time, as shown in (c1), the peak position of the left headlight unit 100L shifts the peak position further to the right as compared with the duty map (b1).
At this time, the amount of shift of the peak position may be increased according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

On the other hand, as shown in (c2), the peak position of the right headlight unit 100R shifts to the left (opposite to the turning direction) as compared with the duty map (b2).
That is, the light distribution control device 50 has a plurality of light emitting elements so as to shift the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction (right headlight unit 100R) to the opposite side (left side) of the turning direction. Control 40 (each LED).

  At this time, the amount of shift of the peak position may be increased according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

  Further, the peak value in the duty map (c2) of the right headlight unit 100R is lower than the peak value in the duty map (c1) of the left headlight unit 100L. The timing at which the peak value starts to decrease is when the turning angle (steering angle) becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined angle or when the swivel angle becomes an angle β (the headlight unit 100 on the opposite side of the turning direction is limited to inward rotation) (When it is turned up). In the duty map (c2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle). At this time, it is possible to increase the duty ratio of both footings in the duty map by the amount of lowering the peak value. As a result, unevenness in light distribution in the driving field of view is alleviated, and the entire display can be kept bright, improving the driver's visibility.

  In addition, you may control several light emitting elements 40, without changing the total light quantity in light distribution. That is, the peak value may be lowered or the peak position may be shifted while maintaining the area of the mountain shape in the duty map.

  Then, as shown in (c3), the light distribution of the left headlight unit 100R has a peak value with respect to the light distribution of the left headlight unit 100L (broken line) as indicated by (c3). The peak shape of the light distribution distribution (solid line) obtained by superposing the light distribution distribution of the left headlight unit 100L (dotted line) and the light distribution distribution of the right headlight unit 100R (two-dot chain line) is a swivel The swivel ratio in the controller becomes one without dividing into two due to the effect that is not 1: 1. The peak value is reduced without changing the total light amount (total duty ratio), and the peak of the mountain shape is made a gentle flat shape not steep, and the skirt is expanded to make a relatively flat shape. The effect of making the light distribution distribution peak without being divided into two can be enhanced, the unevenness of the light distribution in the driving vision can be alleviated, and the driver's visibility can be improved.

  As described above, when the vehicle 200 turns, the light distribution control device 50 controls the peak value of the light distribution of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction (right headlight unit 100R) to the headlight on the opposite side of the turning direction. Since the plurality of light emitting elements (each LED) are controlled to be lower than the peak value of the light distribution in the lamp unit (left headlight unit 100L), it is possible to suppress the unevenness of light distribution in the driving field of view.

In addition, when the angular difference between the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R is equal to or less than a predetermined angle (here, 5 °), the light distribution control device 50 determines the left headlight. The light emitting element 40 may be controlled to shift the peak position of the light distribution in the unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R to the turning direction side according to the increase of the turning angle.
Further, when the angular difference between the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R exceeds a predetermined angle (here, 5 °), the light distribution control device 50 causes the front in the turning direction to The plurality of light emitting elements 40 (each LED) are controlled to shift the peak position of the light distribution in the lighting unit (right headlight unit 100R) to the opposite side (left side) of the turning direction according to the increase of the turning angle. You may Here, although the predetermined angle is set to 5 °, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be 7 °, for example. When the predetermined angle is set to 7 °, the angle difference between the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R turns inward the headlight unit on the opposite side of the turning direction Beyond the angle β (5 ° here), which is the range of the swivel angle, up to a predetermined angle of 7 °, that is, the swivel angle at which the headlight unit on the turning direction pivots out reaches 12 ° The light emitting element 40 is controlled to shift the peak position of the light distribution in the right headlight unit 100R to the turning direction side according to the increase of the turning angle, and the angle difference exceeds 7 °, ie, When the swivel angle at which the headlight unit on the side of the turning direction turns outward exceeds 12 °, the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the side of the turning direction is turned according to the increase of the turning angle. Controlling the plurality of light emitting elements 40 so as to shift to the opposite side (left side).
As described above, even if the difference between the left and right swivel angles becomes large, it is possible to suppress the unevenness of light distribution in the driving field while maintaining the driving field in the turning direction bright.
The timing to change the control to shift the peak position to the turning direction side to the control to shift the turning direction opposite side is not the angle difference between the left and right swivel angles, but the swivel angle at which the headlight unit on the opposite side of the turning direction pivots inward. (Here, 5 °) may be set. Thereby, for example, at the time of turning of the right curve, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L becomes the maximum angle β inside and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R remains without being rotated any further. The control for shifting the peak position can be changed at the change point where the rate of change in the angle difference between the left and right swivel angles increases sharply so that R increases to the outside, and the unevenness of light distribution can be efficiently reduced.
In the light distribution control device 50, either the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L or the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R is a predetermined angle (for example, the right headlight where the headlight unit on the turning direction side is When the swivel angle of the lamp unit 100R exceeds 10 °, the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit (right headlamp unit 100R) on the turning direction side is opposite to the turning direction according to the increase in the turning angle. A plurality of light emitting elements 40 (each LED) may be controlled so as to be shifted (to the left). Thereby, even if the swivel angle becomes large, it is possible to suppress the unevenness of light distribution in the driving field of view while maintaining the driving field of view in the turning direction bright.

(Front side illumination securing control)
Next, front illumination securing control for securing the front illumination of the vehicle 200 by changing the duty ratio of the plurality of light emitting elements 40 will be described.
By the way, when the vehicle 200 is in the turning state, the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R both turn in the turning direction by the control of the swivel control device. Then, the light distribution at this time is entirely shifted in the turning direction as compared with (a3) as in (b3) or (c3) described above.

  Then, while the turning direction in the driving view becomes brighter, the front of the vehicle 200 (in front of the driver) in the driving view becomes darker.

In order to cope with this, when the vehicle 200 turns, the light distribution control device 50 controls the plurality of light emitting elements 40 so as to have a light distribution to which the illuminance in the front of the vehicle 200 is added. As a result, the difference between the turning direction and the illuminance on the front of the vehicle 200 is reduced, and unevenness in light distribution in the driving field of view during turning can be reduced.
In addition, since the light distribution control device 50 may superimpose the control content described below on the above-described peak control described using FIG. 4, the common control content may be omitted below. .

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory view of the front illumination securing control, in which the vehicle 200 moves from a straight going state (see (d)) to a sharp turning state (see (f)) through a turning state (see (e)). The change of the light distribution from the vehicle lamp 1 is illustrated in figure. From left to right, the diagrams shown in each row are explanatory diagrams ((d), (e), (f)) showing the traveling state of the vehicle 200, the swivel angle and duty map of the left headlight unit 100L ((d1 And (e1), (f1) and the swivel angle and duty map ((d2), (e2), (f2)) of the right headlight unit 100R. The way of looking at each duty map and each light distribution is the same as that shown in FIG.

  First, as shown in (d), (d1) and (d2) of FIG. 5, the vehicle 200 normally has the optical axis YL of the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit in plan view in a straight ahead state. The optical axis YR of 100R is set to be substantially parallel to the straight direction. That is, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R are respectively set to zero.

At this time, the duty map (d1) of the left headlight unit 100L and the duty map (d2) of the right headlight unit 100R are the same as the duty map (a1) and the duty map (a2), respectively, and the central LED The duty ratio of is set to a substantially symmetrical mountain shape that peaks.
And a light distribution is set similarly to what was shown to (a3).

  Next, as shown in (e), (e1) and (e2) of FIG. 5, when the vehicle 200 moves from the straight going state (d) to the turning state (e) along the road R, the light distribution control device 50 Acquires information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control unit ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control unit and the ADB.

Here, as shown in (e1), the peak position of the left headlight unit 100L shifts to the right as compared with the duty map (d1).
Similarly, as shown in (e2), the duty map of the right headlight unit 100R shifts the peak position to the right compared to the duty map (d2).

  At this time, the amount of shift of the peak position may be increased according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

Further, the peak value in the duty map (e2) of the right headlight unit 100R is lowered than the peak value in the duty map (e1) of the left headlight unit 100L. Here, the peak value in the duty map (e2) is slightly smaller than that in the duty map (e1).
The timing to start decreasing the peak value may be when the turning angle (steering angle) becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined angle or when the swivel angle becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined angle. In the duty map (e2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

  Here, the light emitting element 40 is controlled to reduce the peak value in the duty map (e2) of the right headlight unit 100R, and at the same time, to obtain a light distribution that adds the illuminance in front of the vehicle 200. That is, in the left headlight unit 100L, based on the duty map (e1) in which the duty ratio of the LED on the opposite side of the turning direction corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200 (the range surrounded by the dashed line in (e1)) is increased. Also in the right headlight unit 100R, a duty map (e2) in which the duty ratio of the LED on the opposite side of the turning direction corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200 (the range enclosed by the dashed line in (e2)) is increased. Light up based on.

  Then, the light distribution is obtained by superposing the light distribution of the left headlight unit 100L (broken line) and the light distribution of the right headlight unit 100R (two-dot chain line) in the same manner as shown in (b3). The peak shape of the peak shape of the light distribution (solid line) becomes one without splitting into two due to the influence that the swivel ratio in the swivel controller is not 1: 1. In addition, also at the time of turning, not only the turning direction but also the front of the vehicle 200 (the part surrounded by the dashed line in (e)) can be brightly irradiated.

  As described above, when the vehicle 200 turns, the light distribution control device 50 controls the peak value of the light distribution of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction (right headlight unit 100R) to the headlight on the opposite side of the turning direction. Since a plurality of light emitting elements (each LED) are controlled to be lower than the peak value of light distribution in the lamp unit (left headlight unit 100L), even if the swivel ratio in the swivel controller is not 1: 1, the swivel is possible By appropriately controlling the control device and the ADB at the same time, it is possible to suppress unevenness in light distribution in the driving field of view, and to illuminate the front of the vehicle 200 brightly as well as the turning direction even at turning.

  Next, as shown in (f), (f1) and (f2) of FIG. 5, when the vehicle 200 passes through the turning state (e) along the road R and shifts to the sharp turning state (f), the light distribution control The device 50 acquires information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control unit ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control unit and the ADB.

  The swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information on the turning direction input to the ADB, and as shown in (f1) and (f2), the left side according to the turning direction of the vehicle 200. The swivel angle of the headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R are controlled.

  However, since the angle β is 5 °, that is, the range (limit) within which the left headlight unit 100L can pivot inward is 5 °, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 ° (( While maintained in the state of f1), the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R increases from 10 ° (state of (e2)) to 18 ° (state of (f2)) which is the angle α. That is, here, for example, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 °, and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R is 18 °.

  On the other hand, ADB refers to the duty map corresponding to each LED in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 by PWM control with reference to the duty map stored in advance in the storage device corresponding to the traveling state (here, sudden turning state). Set individually and adjust the brightness of each LED.

At this time, as shown in (f1), the peak position of the left headlight unit 100L is further shifted to the right as compared with the duty map (e1).
At this time, the amount of shift of the peak position may be increased according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

  Similarly, as shown in (f2), the peak position of the right headlight unit 100R shifts to the right (turning direction) as compared with the duty map (e2). In addition, you may shift to the left (turning direction).

  At this time, the amount of shift of the peak position may be increased according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

Further, the peak value in the duty map (f2) of the right headlight unit 100R may be lower than the peak value in the duty map (f1) of the left headlight unit 100L. The timing at which the peak value starts to decrease is when the turning angle (steering angle) becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined angle or when the swivel angle becomes an angle β (the headlight unit 100 on the opposite side of the turning direction is limited to inward rotation) (When it is turned up). In the duty map (f2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).
In addition, you may control several light emitting elements 40, without changing the total light quantity in light distribution.

  And the light emitting element 40 is controlled so that it may become a light distribution distribution which adds the illumination intensity in the front of the vehicle 200 also here. That is, in the left headlight unit 100L, based on the duty map (f1) in which the duty ratio of the LED on the opposite side of the turning direction (the range surrounded by the dashed line in (f1)) corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200 is increased. In the right headlight unit 100R, a duty map (f2) in which the duty ratio of the LED on the opposite side of the turning direction corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200 (the area enclosed by the dashed line in (f2)) is increased. Light up based on.

  Under the present circumstances, according to the magnitude | size of turning angle, the peak position in LED opposite to the turning direction corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200 which raised duty ratio is shifted to the turning direction opposite side. As a result, even when the turning angle is increased, light distribution in the driving field of view can be made uniform, and the front of the vehicle 200 can be brightened.

(Shading control)
Subsequently, light shielding control for reducing the illuminance toward the oncoming vehicle 300 by changing the duty ratio of the plurality of light emitting elements 40 will be described.
By the way, when the vehicle 200 is in a turning state, the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R both turn in the turning direction under the control of the swivel control device. Then, the light distribution at this time is entirely shifted in the turning direction as described above.

  Here, when the opposite person driving the oncoming vehicle 300 traveling in the opposite lane appears, if the duty ratio by the upper light distribution unit H (high beam) is maintained as (e1) and (e2), for the other person Unfavorably because it becomes glare.

  In order to cope with this, the light distribution control device 50 lowers the illuminance in the range that causes glare to the opponent (including the driver of the oncoming vehicle 300 and the pedestrian) in the driving vision when the vehicle 200 turns. Thus, the plurality of light emitting elements 40 are controlled. Specifically, when the vehicle 200 turns, the light distribution control device 50 controls the plurality of light emitting elements 40 to lower the illuminance in the range where the glare occurs in the vehicle 300 detected in the driving field of view. Note that this glare control may be superimposed on the control described above.

As a result, the illuminance in the range where glare is given to the opponent in the driving field of view can be reduced, so that glare can be prevented from being given to the opponent.
In addition, since the light distribution control device 50 may superimpose the control contents described below on the control contents described above with reference to FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, common control contents will be omitted below. There is a case.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory view of the light shielding control, for a vehicle when the vehicle 200 moves from a straight traveling state (see (g)) to a sharp turning state (see (i)) through a turning state (see (h)). The change of the light distribution from the lamp 1 is illustrated in figure. From left to right, the diagrams shown in each column are explanatory diagrams ((g), (h), (i)) representing the traveling state of the vehicle 200, the swivel angle and duty map of the left headlight unit 100L ((g1 (H1), (i1) and the swivel angle and duty map ((g2), (h2), (i2)) of the right headlight unit 100R. The way of looking at each duty map and each light distribution is the same as that shown in FIG.

  First, as shown in (g), (g1) and (g2) of FIG. 6, the vehicle 200 normally has the optical axis YL of the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit in plan view in the straight ahead state. The optical axis YR of 100R is set to be substantially parallel to the straight direction. That is, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R are respectively set to zero.

At this time, the duty map (g1) of the left headlight unit 100L and the duty map (g2) of the right headlight unit 100R are the same as the duty map (a1) and the duty map (a2), respectively, and the central LED The duty ratio of is set to a substantially symmetrical mountain shape that peaks.
And a light distribution is set similarly to what was shown to (a3).

  Next, as shown in (h), (h1) and (h2) of FIG. 6, when the vehicle 200 moves from the straight going state (g) to the turning state (h) along the road R, the light distribution control device 50 Acquires information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control unit ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control unit and the ADB.

Then, due to the above-described peak control, the peak position of the duty map (h1) of the left headlight unit 100L is shifted to the right as compared with the duty map (b1), as in the case of the duty map (b1). Similarly, as with the duty map (b2), the peak position of the duty map (h2) of the right headlight unit 100R is shifted to the right relative to the duty map (g2).
Here, when the oncoming vehicle 300 driven by the other person approaches in front of the vehicle 200, the peak position is on the right side compared to the duty map (g1) as shown on the duty map (h1) of the left headlight unit 100L. A range where glare occurs on the other party (the other party feels glare) based on the shifted mountain shape (see the duty map (b1)), for example, a camera or radar (not shown) mounted on the vehicle 200 The duty ratio of the range (hatched part) corresponding to the position information of the oncoming vehicle 300 sent from the vehicle control unit ECU is lowered. The duty ratio may be zero or almost zero. The same applies to the duty map (h2) of the right headlight unit 100R.

  In addition, the corresponding LED ((h1) and (h2) corresponds to a dot-and-dash line so as to increase the illuminance in the front of the vehicle 200 by an amount corresponding to the reduction of the duty ratio in the range where the glare occurs to the opponent. Increase the duty ratio). At this time, the plurality of light emitting elements 40 may be controlled without changing the total light amount in the light distribution. As described above, even when the oncoming vehicle 300 is present, even if the direction is shielded, the front of the vehicle 200 can be efficiently brightened, and the brightness of the entire driving field of view can be secured.

  Next, as shown in (i), (i1) and (i2) of FIG. 6, when the vehicle 200 changes from the turning state (h) to the sharp turning state (i) along the road R, the light distribution control device 50 acquires information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control unit ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control unit and the ADB.

  The swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information on the turning direction input to the ADB, and as shown in (i1) and (i2), the left side according to the turning direction of the vehicle 200. The swivel angle of the headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R are controlled.

  However, since the angle β is 5 °, that is, the range (limit) within which the left headlight unit 100L can pivot inward is 5 °, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 ° (( While maintained in the state of i1), the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R increases from 10 ° (state of (h2)) to 18 ° (state of (i2)) which is the angle α. That is, here, for example, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 °, and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R is 18 °.

On the other hand, ADB refers to the duty map corresponding to each LED in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 by PWM control with reference to the duty map stored in advance in the storage device corresponding to the traveling state (here, sudden turning state). Set individually and adjust the brightness of each LED.
At this time, as shown in the duty map (i1) of the left headlight unit 100L, the peak position is further shifted to the right as compared with the duty map (h1).

  Similarly, as shown in the duty map (i2) of the right headlight unit 100R, the peak position is shifted to the right (turning direction) compared to the duty map (h2). In addition, you may shift to the left (turning direction) like the above-mentioned peak control.

  At this time, the amount of shift of the peak position may be increased according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).

Further, as in the above-mentioned peak control, the peak value in the duty map (i2) of the right headlight unit 100R may be lowered than the peak value in the duty map (i1) of the left headlight unit 100L. The timing at which the peak value starts to decrease is when the turning angle (steering angle) becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined angle or when the swivel angle becomes an angle β (the headlight unit 100 on the opposite side of the turning direction is limited to inward rotation) (When it is turned up). In the duty map (i2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information on the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (steering angle).
In addition, you may control several light emitting elements 40, without changing the total light quantity in light distribution.

  Here, when the oncoming vehicle 300 driven by the other person approaches in front of the vehicle 200, as shown in (i1), the duty map of the left headlight unit 100L has a peak position further compared to the duty map (h1). With reference to the mountain shape shifted to the right, the duty ratio in the range in which the opponent is glare (the opponent feels glare) is lowered. The same applies to the duty map (i2) of the right headlight unit 100R. The duty ratio may be zero or almost zero.

  The corresponding LED ((i1) is surrounded by an alternate long and short dash line so as to increase the illuminance in the front of the vehicle 200 by an amount corresponding to the reduction of the duty ratio in the range where the glare occurs to the opponent. Part) increase the duty ratio. The same applies to (i2) for the duty map of the right headlight unit 100R. At this time, the plurality of light emitting elements 40 may be controlled without changing the total light amount in the light distribution. As described above, even when the oncoming vehicle 300 is present in the rapid turning state, even if the direction is blocked, the front of the vehicle 200 can be efficiently brightened, and the brightness of the entire driving field of view can be ensured.

  Although the present invention has been described above based on the specific embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments.

  According to the vehicle lamp 1 of the present invention, light distribution control is performed to control light distribution by changing the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R according to the turning direction of the vehicle 200. The left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R each have a plurality of light emitting elements 40 arranged in the left-right direction, and the light distribution control device 50 When the vehicle 200 turns, the plurality of light emitting elements 40 are configured to lower the peak value of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side than the peak value of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the opposite side of the turning direction. Can be reduced, so it is possible to reduce the unevenness of light distribution in the driving field of view at the time of turning.

Reference Signs List 1 vehicle lamp 10 lens 20 lens housing 30 actuator 40 light emitting element 50 light distribution control device 100L left headlight unit 100R right headlight unit 200 vehicle 300 oncoming vehicle a1, d1, g1 (left headlight unit in straight ahead state ) Duty map a2, d2, g2 (for the right headlight unit in straight condition) duty map b1, e1, h1 (for the left headlight unit in turning condition) duty map b2, e2, h2 (on the right in turning condition) Headlight unit's duty map c1, f1, i1 (on left headlight unit in quick turn) duty map c2, f2, i2 (on right headlight unit in quick turn) duty map a3, b3, c3 Light distribution ADB Light distribution controller AFS Light distribution controller ECU Vehicle control device R Road X Output axis YL Optical axis YR (of the left headlight unit) Optical axis α (of the right headlight unit) Angle α (Outside) Angle β (Inside) Angle H Upper light distribution section L Road surface distribution Light section

Claims (8)

A vehicle lamp comprising a light distribution control device that controls light distribution by changing the swivel angle of the left headlight unit and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit according to the turning direction of the vehicle.
The left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each have a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the left and right direction,
The light distribution control device
When turning the vehicle, the plurality of light emitting elements are set so that the peak value of light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side is lower than the peak value of light distribution in the headlight unit on the opposite side of the turning direction. A vehicle lamp characterized by being controlled. The light distribution control device
The vehicular lamp according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of light emitting elements are controlled to lower the peak value in accordance with a turning angle. The light distribution control device
The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of light emitting elements are controlled so as to shift the peak position of light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction to the opposite side of the turning direction. Lights. The light distribution control device
When the difference between the swivel angle of the left headlight unit and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit exceeds a predetermined angle, the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction is The vehicular lamp according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of light emitting elements are controlled to be shifted to the opposite side in the turning direction according to the increase. The light distribution control device
The vehicle lamp according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the light emitting elements are controlled so as to obtain a light distribution distribution to add illuminance in the front of the vehicle when the vehicle turns. The light distribution control device
6. The light emitting device according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting elements are controlled so as to lower the illuminance in a range that causes glare to the vehicle detected in the driving field of view when the vehicle is turning. The vehicle lamp according to claim 1 or 2. The light distribution control device
The vehicular lamp according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a plurality of the light emitting elements are controlled without changing a total light amount in the light distribution. The left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each have an upper light distribution unit and a road light distribution unit therein,
The said light distribution control apparatus controls the said upper light distribution part, The vehicle lamp of any one of the Claims 1-7 characterized by the above-mentioned.