JP6992428B2 - Vehicle lighting - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a vehicle lamp.

Conventionally, there is a vehicle lighting tool provided with a light distribution control device (ADB) that controls the light distribution of the left and right headlight units according to the position of the vehicle in front.
Further, in addition to ADB, there is a vehicle lighting tool provided with a swivel control device that controls light distribution by rotating the left and right headlight units according to the turning direction of the own vehicle to change the swivel angle (Patent Document). 1).

JP-A-2015-39993

By the way, in a vehicle lamp equipped with a swivel control device in addition to the ADB, particularly when the headlight unit on the turning direction side has a structure in which the headlight unit on the turning direction side rotates at a larger ratio than the headlight unit on the opposite side in 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 increases according to the turning direction of the own vehicle, the unevenness of the light distribution in the driving view becomes remarkable, and the driver. There is a problem of giving a sense of discomfort to the car.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle lamp capable of reducing unevenness of light distribution in the driving field of view when turning.

The present invention is grasped by the following configurations in order to achieve the above object.
(1) The vehicle lighting equipment of the present invention includes 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 lighting equipment, 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 used when the vehicle is turning. In, the plurality of light emitting elements are controlled so 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 in the turning direction.
(2) In the configuration of (1) above, the light distribution control device controls a plurality of the light emitting elements so as to lower the peak value according to the turning angle.
(3) In the configuration of the above (1) or (2), the light distribution control device has a plurality of said light distribution control devices so as to shift the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side to the opposite side of the turning direction. Control the light emitting element.
(4) In any of the configurations (1) to (3), the light distribution control device has a predetermined angle difference between the swivel angle of the left headlight unit and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit. When the angle is equal to or less than the angle, the light emitting element is controlled so that the peak positions of the light distribution in the left headlight unit and the right headlight unit are shifted toward the turning direction according to the increase in the turning angle. When the angle difference exceeds a predetermined angle, the plurality of light emitting elements are controlled so that the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side is shifted to the opposite side in the turning direction as the turning angle increases. ..
(5) In the configuration of (1) above, the light distribution control device controls a plurality of the light emitting elements so as to have a light distribution distribution that adds illuminance in front of the vehicle when the vehicle turns. ..
(6) In any of the configurations (1) to (5) above, the light distribution control device reduces the illuminance in a glare range with respect to the vehicle detected in the driving field of view when the vehicle is turning. As described above, the plurality of light emitting elements are controlled.
(7) In any of the configurations (1) to (6), the light distribution control device controls a plurality of the light emitting elements without changing the total amount of light in the light distribution.
(8) In any of the configurations (1) to (7), the left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each 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.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vehicle lamp that can reduce unevenness in light distribution in the driving field of view when turning.

It is explanatory drawing which saw the vehicle equipped with the light fixture for a vehicle from the plane. It is explanatory drawing of the lamp for a vehicle, (a) is a front view, (b) is a sectional view seen from a plane, and (c) is a sectional view seen from the side. It is explanatory drawing of the lamp for a vehicle provided with the road surface light distribution part L and the upper light distribution part H. It is an explanatory diagram of peak control, and illustrates the change in light distribution from the vehicle lighting equipment when the vehicle changes from a straight running state to a turning state and then to a sharp turning state. From the left, explanatory diagrams ((a), (b), (c)) showing the running state of the vehicle, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit and the duty map ((a1), (b1), (c1)). The swivel angle and duty map of the right headlight unit ((a2), (b2), (c2)) and the light distribution ((a3), (b3), (c3)). It is an explanatory diagram of the front illuminance securing control, and illustrates the change in the light distribution from the vehicle lighting equipment when the vehicle changes from the straight traveling state to the turning state to the sharp turning state, and is shown in each row. From the left, explanatory diagrams ((d), (e), (f)) showing the running state of the vehicle, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit, and the duty map ((d1), (e1), (f1). ) And the swivel angle and duty map of the right headlight unit ((d2), (e2), (f2)). It is an explanatory diagram of shading control, and illustrates the change in light distribution from the vehicle lighting equipment when the vehicle changes from a straight running state to a turning state and then to a sharp turning state. From the left, explanatory diagrams ((g), (h), (i)) showing the running state of the vehicle, the swivel angle and duty map of the left headlight unit ((g1), (h1), (i1)) and The swivel angle and duty map of the right headlight unit ((g2), (h2), (i2)).

Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as “embodiments”) will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same elements are numbered or coded the same throughout the description of the embodiments. Further, in the embodiment, unless otherwise specified, "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front", and "rear" are the directions seen from the driver riding in the vehicle 200, respectively. Is shown. Further, the center side of the vehicle 200 is referred to as "inside" and the outside is referred to as "outside" with respect to the straight-ahead direction.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory view of a vehicle 200 equipped with a vehicle lamp 1 as viewed from a plane. 2A and 2B are explanatory views of a vehicle lamp 1, FIG. 2A is a front view, FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view seen from a plane, and FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view seen from a side surface. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a vehicle lamp 1 including a road surface light distribution unit L and an upper light distribution unit H.

As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle lighting tool 1 of the present embodiment is arranged in front of the vehicle 200, and in order to secure a driving view at night or the like, light from a light source is directed toward the driving view in front of the vehicle 200. Irradiate. The vehicle lighting tool 1 has a left headlight unit 100L on the left front side of the vehicle 200 and a right side headlight unit 100R on the right front side. 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 headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R is described as a representative, the vehicle lighting equipment 1 includes a lens 10 and a lens housing that supports the lens 10. It has 20 and a plurality of light emitting elements 40 provided inside the lens housing 20. In the present embodiment, LEDs or the like are used as the light emitting element 40, and nine LEDs are arranged in a straight line in the left-right direction, but not limited to nine, a plurality of light emitting elements 40 are arranged in a matrix. It may be arranged in. In the following description, the LED may be described instead of the light emitting element 40.

Further, the vehicle lighting tool 1 is supported by the vehicle 200 and includes an actuator 30 having an output shaft 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 according to the rotation of the output shaft X.

As shown in FIG. 1, the swivel angle, which is the angle at which the lens housing 20 and the lens 10 rotate in the left-right direction, is an angle α (externally) common to the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R. For example, it can be changed in the range of 18 °) and inward in the range of 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 within the range of the inner angle β and the turning of the vehicle 200 when the swivel angle is within the range of the outer angle α. The ratio to the ratio of the swivel angle that changes depending on the direction (hereinafter referred to as "swibble ratio") does not have to be 1: 1. For example, when the vehicle 200 curves to the right at a turning angle (steering angle) of 5 °, the left headlight unit 100L rotates inward at a swivel angle of 5 °, and the right headlight unit 100R rotates outward. It may rotate at a swivel angle of 10 °. In the case of this example, the swivel ratio is 1: 2.

Therefore, for example, when the range of the swivel angle is 18 ° for the angle α and 5 ° for the angle β and the swivel ratio is 1: 2, assuming a turning state in the right curve, the left headlight When the light unit 100L rotates inward to the limit of the angle β of 5 °, the right headlight unit 100R rotates outward to 10 °. From here, when the right curve becomes steeper and a sharp turn occurs, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L remains rotated inward to the limit of the angle β, which is 5 °. , The right headlight unit 100R rotates outward over 10 ° to 18 °. In the case of a left curve, the operation is symmetrical to this.

Further, the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R each 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 is upward. The light distribution unit H and the actuator 30 for changing the swivel angle are controlled.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R are light sources that emit light for road surface light distribution, respectively, 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. The light distribution pattern from the road surface light distribution unit L is not shown.
In this way, the swivel angle of the headlight unit can be changed according to the turning direction while the upper light distribution unit H and the road surface light distribution unit L are integrally provided in a single headlight unit. The driving view in the direction can be well secured by the cooperation of the upper light distribution section H and the road surface light distribution section L, and even if the light distribution in the driving view becomes uneven due to the change in the swivel angle, the upper light distribution section H is provided. By controlling, unevenness of light distribution can be reduced.

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

The ADB adjusts 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 the distribution of the duty ratio corresponding to each LED, and controls each LED based on the duty map. A plurality of duty maps 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 regarding the turning direction of the vehicle 200 or the angle difference of the swivel angle between the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R. Therefore, the ADB controls the 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. By doing so, the light distribution is controlled.

In this way, the light distribution control device 50 controls the light distribution by the ADB and the swivel control device.

(Peak control)
Here, with reference to FIG. 4, the control content of the light distribution by the light distribution control device 50 will be described along with the time series when the vehicle 200 changes from the straight traveling state to the turning state and then to the sharp turning state.
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. Further, the description will be made on the assumption that the vehicle 200 is turning along the road R that is curved to the right, but the same applies to the case where the vehicle 200 is curved to the left. Normally, when the swivel ratio is about 1: 2, the light distribution distribution by the left headlight unit 100L and the light distribution distribution by the right headlight unit 100R are superimposed only by the swivel control device. In addition, as the turning angle (steering angle) increases, two peaks may appear, and uneven light distribution (bright and dark contrast) in the driving field of view may become noticeable. According to the present invention, By appropriately controlling the vehicle lamp 1 by the ADB in addition to the swivel control device, it is possible to reduce the unevenness of the light distribution without making the two peaks noticeable.

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

Each duty map is shown 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 amount of light (brightness). ..
Further, each bar in the bar graph corresponds to a plurality of LEDs constituting the light emitting element 40 (here, an example in which nine LEDs are arranged in a row) corresponds to the bar graph. The positional relationship and the irradiation range correspond to each other.
Further, the arrow shown in the bar of the bar graph indicates the peak position which is the position of the LED in which the duty ratio is set to be the largest in the same duty map. The length of the arrow represents the height of the bar, which is the magnitude of the duty ratio of the LED in which the duty ratio is set to be the largest in the same duty map, and indicates the peak value.

For example, in the duty map of (a1), the length of the leftmost bar represents the duty ratio of the LED that illuminates the leftmost range in the driving view in the left headlight unit 100L, and the rightmost bar. The length represents the duty ratio of the LED that illuminates the rightmost range in the driving field of view in the left headlight unit 100L. 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 view in the right headlight unit 100R, and is the rightmost. The length of the rod represents the duty ratio of the LED that illuminates the rightmost range in the driving field of view in the right headlight unit 100R.
Further, in both the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R, the central LED is the peak position, and the peak values are the same.

For each light distribution, the light distribution of the left headlight unit 100L is shown by a broken line, the light distribution of the right headlight unit 100R is shown by a two-point chain line, and the light distribution of the left headlight unit 100L and the right side. The light distribution distributed by superimposing the light distribution of the headlight unit 100R is represented by a solid line.

First, as shown in FIGS. 4A, 1A, and 2A, the vehicle 200 normally has an optical axis YL of the left headlight unit 100L and a right headlight unit in a plan view in a straight-ahead state. The optical axis YR of 100R is set so as 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 set to zero, respectively.

At this time, the duty map of the left headlight unit 100L is set to a substantially symmetrical mountain shape where the duty ratio of the central LED is the largest peak as shown in (a1). The duty map of the right headlight unit 100R has a substantially symmetrical mountain shape in which the duty ratio of the central LED peaks as shown in (a2), similar to the duty map (a1) of the left headlight unit 100L. Is set to.
Then, the light distribution control device 50 controls the swivel control device and the ADB based on the information regarding the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of the preceding vehicle, etc.) acquired from the vehicle control device ECU.

The 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, the straight running state). Then, the brightness of each LED is adjusted.

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

Then, the light distribution is set as shown in (a3). That is, 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) are superimposed so that there is no unevenness in the light distribution in the driving field of view. The peaks of the mountain shape of the distribution (solid line) are set so as to be one without being divided into two due to the influence that the swivel ratio in the swivel control device is not 1: 1.

Next, as shown in FIGS. 4 (b), (b1) and (b2), when the vehicle 200 changes from the straight traveling 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 a preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control device ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control device and the ADB.

The swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information regarding the turning direction input to the ADB, and as shown in (b1) and (b2), the left side depending on 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, the 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, the turning state). Set to and adjust the brightness of each LED.

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

Further, the peak value in the duty map (b2) of the right headlight unit 100R is lowered from the peak value in the duty map (b1) of the left headlight unit 100L. The timing at which the peak value starts to be lowered may be when the turning angle (rudder angle) becomes a predetermined angle or more, or when the swivel angle becomes a predetermined angle or more. In the duty map (b2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder angle).

Then, as shown in (b3), the light distribution is such that 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) are superimposed. The peak of the mountain shape of the light distribution (solid line) becomes one without being divided into two due to the influence that the swivel ratio in the swivel control device is not 1: 1. As shown in (b3), the light distribution at this time is entirely shifted toward the turning direction with respect to the light distribution in (a3).

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

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

The swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information regarding the turning direction input to the ADB, and as shown in (c1) and (c2), the left side depending on 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) at which the left headlight unit 100L can rotate inward is 5 °, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 ° (((). While being maintained in the state of c1), the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R increases from 10 ° (state of (b2)) to 18 ° (state of (c2)) which is an 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, the ADB uses PWM control to set the duty ratio corresponding to each LED in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 with reference to the duty map stored in advance in the storage device corresponding to the traveling state (here, the sharp turning state). Set individually and adjust the brightness of each LED.

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

On the other hand, as shown in (c2), the duty map of the right headlight unit 100R shifts the peak position to the left side (opposite 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 (right side headlight unit 100R) on the turning direction side to the opposite side (left side) in the turning direction. 40 (each LED) is controlled.

At this time, the amount of shifting the peak position may be increased according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder angle).

Further, the peak value in the duty map (c2) of the right headlight unit 100R is lowered from the peak value in the duty map (c1) of the left headlight unit 100L. The timing to start lowering this peak value is when the turning angle (rudder angle) exceeds a predetermined angle or when the swivel angle becomes the angle β (the headlight unit 100 on the opposite side of the turning direction turns inward). (When rotated to). In the duty map (c2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder angle). At this time, the duty ratio of both bases in the duty map may be increased by the amount that the peak value is lowered. As a result, unevenness of light distribution in the driving field of view is alleviated, the whole can be kept bright, and the visibility of the driver is improved.

The plurality of light emitting elements 40 may be controlled without changing the total amount of light in the 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 right headlight unit 100R (two-point chain line) has a peak value with respect to the light distribution (broken line) of the left headlight unit 100L. It becomes smaller, and the peak of the mountain shape of the light distribution (solid line) that superimposes the light distribution (broken line) of the left headlight unit 100L and the light distribution (two-point chain line) of the right headlight unit 100R is swivel. The swivel ratio in the control device is not 1: 1 and it is not divided into two but becomes one. By reducing the peak value without changing the total amount of light (total duty ratio), the peak of the mountain shape is made into a gentle flat shape that is not steep, and the hem is widened to make it a relatively flat shape. The effect that the peak of the light distribution can be made into one without being divided into two is enhanced, the unevenness of the light distribution in the driving view is alleviated, and the visibility of the driver is improved.

As described above, when the vehicle 200 is turned, the light distribution control device 50 sets the peak value of the light distribution in the headlight unit (right side headlight unit 100R) on the turning direction side to the headlight on the opposite side of the turning direction. Since the plurality of light emitting elements (each LED) are controlled so as to be lower than the peak value of the light distribution in the light unit (left headlight unit 100L), unevenness in the light distribution in the driving field can be suppressed.

Further, in the light distribution control device 50, when the angle difference between the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L and the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R is a predetermined angle (here, 5 °) or less, the left headlight The light emitting element 40 may be controlled so that the peak position of the light distribution in the unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R is shifted to the turning direction side according to the increase in the turning angle.
Further, when the angle 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 is in front of the turning direction side. A plurality of light emitting elements 40 (each LED) are controlled so that the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit (right headlight unit 100R) is shifted to the opposite side (left side) in the turning direction according to the increase in the turning angle. It's okay. Here, the predetermined angle is set to 5 °, but the angle is not limited to this, and may be set to, for example, 7 °. 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 causes the headlight unit on the opposite side of the turning direction to rotate inward. The swivel angle at which the headlight unit on the turning direction side rotates outward reaches a predetermined angle of 7 ° beyond the angle β (here, 5 °), which is the range of the swivel angle. Until then, the light emitting element 40 is controlled so that the peak position of the light distribution in the right headlight unit 100R is shifted toward the turning direction according to the increase in the turning angle, and when the angle difference exceeds 7 °, that is, When the swivel angle at which the headlight unit on the turning direction side rotates outward exceeds 12 °, the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side is set in the turning direction according to the increase in the turning angle. The plurality of light emitting elements 40 are controlled so as to be displaced to the opposite side (left side).
In this way, even if the angle difference between the left and right swivel angles becomes large, it is possible to suppress unevenness in the light distribution in the driving field of view while maintaining the driving field of view in the turning direction brightly.
The timing to change the peak position from the control to shift to the turning direction side to the control to shift to the opposite side of the turning direction 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 rotates inward. It may be when the angle β (here, 5 °) is within the range of. As a result, for example, when turning a right curve, the swivel angle of the right headlight unit 100R becomes the maximum angle β inward and remains without further rotation. It is possible to change the control of shifting the peak position at the change point where the rate of change of the angle difference between the left and right swivel angles suddenly increases so that the light increases outward, and the unevenness of the 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 unit which is the headlight unit on the turning direction side). When the swivel angle of the light unit 100R exceeds 10 °), the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side (right headlight unit 100R) is set on the opposite side of the turning direction as the turning angle increases. A plurality of light emitting elements 40 (each LED) may be controlled so as to be shifted to (left side). As a result, even if the swivel angle becomes large, it is possible to suppress unevenness in the light distribution in the driving field of view while maintaining the driving field of view in the turning direction bright.

(Control to secure front illuminance)
Next, the front illuminance securing control for securing the front illuminance of the vehicle 200 by changing the duty ratios of the plurality of light emitting elements 40 will be described.
By the way, when the vehicle 200 is in the turning state, both the left headlight unit 100L and the right headlight unit 100R rotate 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 compared with (a3) as described in (b3) or (c3) above.

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

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

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of front illuminance securing control, and is a diagram when the vehicle 200 changes from a straight traveling state (see (d)) to a turning state (see (e)) and then to a sharp turning state (see (f)). The change of the light distribution from the vehicle lamp 1 is illustrated. From the left, the figures shown in each row are explanatory views ((d), (e), (f)) showing the running state of the vehicle 200, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L, and the duty map ((d1). ), (E1), (f1)) and the swivel angle and duty map of the right headlight unit 100R ((d2), (e2), (f2)). The way of viewing each duty map and each light distribution is the same as that shown in FIG.

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

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 central LEDs as well as the duty map (a1) and the duty map (a2), respectively. The duty ratio of the peak is set to a substantially symmetrical mountain shape.
Then, the light distribution is set in the same manner as that shown in (a3).

Next, as shown in FIGS. 5 (e), (e1) and (e2), when the vehicle 200 changes from the straight traveling 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 a preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control device ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control device and the ADB.

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

At this time, the amount of shifting the peak position may be increased according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder angle).

Further, the peak value in the duty map (e2) of the right headlight unit 100R is lowered from 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 the peak value in the duty map (e1).
The timing at which the peak value starts to be lowered may be when the turning angle (rudder angle) becomes a predetermined angle or more, or when the swivel angle becomes a predetermined angle or more. In the duty map (e2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder angle).

Here, the light emitting element 40 is controlled so that the peak value in the duty map (e2) of the right headlight unit 100R is lowered and at the same time, the light distribution is such that the illuminance in the front of the vehicle 200 is added. That is, in the left headlight unit 100L, it is 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 alternate long and short dash line in (e1)) is increased. Even in the right headlight unit 100R, the duty map (e2) has an increased duty ratio of the LED (the range surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line in (e2)) on the opposite side of the turning direction corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200. It emits light based on.

Then, the light distribution is the same as that shown in (b3), 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) are superimposed. The peak of the mountain shape of the light distribution (solid line) becomes one without being divided into two due to the influence that the swivel ratio in the swivel control device is not 1: 1. Further, even when turning, not only the turning direction but also the front surface of the vehicle 200 (the portion surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line in (e)) can be brightly illuminated.

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

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

The swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information regarding the turning direction input to the ADB, and as shown in (f1) and (f2), the left side depending on 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) at which the left headlight unit 100L can rotate inward is 5 °, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 ° (((). While being 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, the ADB uses PWM control to set the duty ratio corresponding to each LED in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 with reference to the duty map stored in advance in the storage device corresponding to the traveling state (here, the sharp turning state). Set individually and adjust the brightness of each LED.

At this time, as shown in (f1), the duty map of the left headlight unit 100L further shifts the peak position to the right side as compared with the duty map (e1).
At this time, the amount of shifting the peak position may be increased according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder angle).

Similarly, as shown in (f2), the duty map of the right headlight unit 100R shifts the peak position to the right side (turning direction) as compared with the duty map (e2). It should be noted that the shift may be made to the left side (turning direction).

At this time, the amount of shifting the peak position may be increased according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder 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 to start lowering this peak value is when the turning angle (rudder angle) exceeds a predetermined angle or when the swivel angle becomes the angle β (the headlight unit 100 on the opposite side of the turning direction turns inward). (When rotated to). In the duty map (f2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder angle).
The plurality of light emitting elements 40 may be controlled without changing the total amount of light in the light distribution.

And here, too, the light emitting element 40 is controlled so as to have a light distribution distribution that adds illuminance in the front of the vehicle 200. That is, in the left headlight unit 100L, it is based on the duty map (f1) in which the duty ratio of the LED (the range surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line in (f1)) corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200 in the turning direction is increased. In the right headlight unit 100R, the duty map (f2) has an increased duty ratio of the LED (the range surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line in (f2)) on the opposite side of the turning direction corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200. It emits light based on.

At this time, the peak position of the LED on the opposite side of the turning direction corresponding to the front of the vehicle 200 having the increased duty ratio is shifted to the opposite side of the turning direction according to the magnitude of the turning angle. As a result, even if the turning angle is large, the light distribution in the driving field of view can be evenly distributed and the front surface of the vehicle 200 can be brightened.

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

Here, when an oncoming person driving an oncoming vehicle 300 traveling in the oncoming lane appears, if the duty ratio by the upper light distribution unit H (high beam) is maintained as in (e1) and (e2), the oncoming person can see it. It is not preferable because it becomes glare.

In order to cope with this, the light distribution control device 50 reduces the illuminance in the range of glare to the oncoming person (including the driver and the pedestrian of the oncoming vehicle 300) in the driving field of view when the vehicle 200 turns. As described above, the plurality of light emitting elements 40 are controlled. Specifically, the light distribution control device 50 controls a plurality of light emitting elements 40 so as to reduce the illuminance in a glare range with respect to the vehicle 300 detected in the driving field of view when the vehicle 200 is turning. Note that this glare control may be superimposed on the above-mentioned control.

As a result, the illuminance in the range where glare occurs with respect to the opponent in the driving field of view is reduced, so that it is possible to suppress giving glare to the opponent.
Since the light distribution control device 50 may superimpose the control content described below on the control content described above with reference to FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the common control content will be omitted below. In some cases.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of shading control, and is for a vehicle when the vehicle 200 changes from a straight traveling state (see (g)) to a turning state (see (h)) and then to a sharp turning state (see (i)). The change of the light distribution from the lamp 1 is illustrated. From the left, the figures shown in each row are explanatory views ((g), (h), (i)) showing the running state of the vehicle 200, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L, and the duty map ((g1). , (H1), (i1)) and the swivel angle and duty map of the right headlight unit 100R ((g2), (h2), (i2)). The way of viewing each duty map and each light distribution is the same as that shown in FIG.

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

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 central LEDs as well as the duty map (a1) and the duty map (a2), respectively. The duty ratio of the peak is set to a substantially symmetrical mountain shape.
Then, the light distribution is set in the same manner as that shown in (a3).

Next, as shown in FIGS. 6 (h), (h1) and (h2), when the vehicle 200 changes from the straight traveling 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 a preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control device ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control device and the ADB.

Then, due to the above-mentioned peak control, the peak position of the left headlight unit 100L shifts to the right side as compared with the duty map (g1) in the duty map (h1) as in the duty map (b1). Similarly, the duty map (h2) of the right headlight unit 100R shifts the peak position to the right side as compared with the duty map (g2), similarly to the duty map (b2).
Here, when the oncoming vehicle 300 driven by the oncoming vehicle approaches in front of the vehicle 200, the peak position is on the right side as compared with the duty map (g1) as shown in the duty map (h1) of the left headlight unit 100L. Based on the shifted mountain shape (see the duty map (b1)), a range that causes glare to the opponent (the opponent feels glare), for example, a camera or radar (not shown) mounted on the vehicle 200, etc. The duty ratio of the range (hatched portion) corresponding to the position information of the oncoming vehicle 300, which is detected by the means of the vehicle control device ECU and 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) has a one-dot chain line so as to increase the illuminance in front of the vehicle 200 by the amount corresponding to the decrease in the duty ratio in the glare range with respect to the oncoming person. Increase the duty ratio of the part surrounded by). At this time, the plurality of light emitting elements 40 may be controlled without changing the total amount of light in the light distribution. As described above, even if the direction of the oncoming vehicle 300 is shielded from light when the oncoming vehicle 300 is present, the front surface of the vehicle 200 can be efficiently brightened, and the brightness of the entire driving field of view can be ensured.

Next, as shown in FIGS. 6 (i), (i 1) and (i 2), 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 The 50 acquires information on the turning direction (turning angle (steering angle), speed, presence / absence of a preceding vehicle, etc.) from the vehicle control device ECU, and inputs information on the turning direction to the swivel control device and the ADB.

The swivel control device controls the actuator 30 based on the same information as the information regarding the turning direction input to the ADB, and as shown in (i1) and (i2), the left side depending on 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) at which the left headlight unit 100L can rotate inward is 5 °, the swivel angle of the left headlight unit 100L is 5 ° (((). While being 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, the ADB uses PWM control to set the duty ratio corresponding to each LED in the plurality of light emitting elements 40 with reference to the duty map stored in advance in the storage device corresponding to the traveling state (here, the sharp 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 side as compared with the duty map (h1).

Similarly, as shown in the duty map (i2) of the right headlight unit 100R, the peak position shifts to the right side (turning direction) as compared with the duty map (h2). It should be noted that the shift may be made to the left side (turning direction) as in the peak control described above.

At this time, the amount of shifting the peak position may be increased according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder 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 lower than the peak value in the duty map (i1) of the left headlight unit 100L. The timing to start lowering this peak value is when the turning angle (rudder angle) exceeds a predetermined angle or when the swivel angle becomes the angle β (the headlight unit 100 on the opposite side of the turning direction turns inward). (When rotated to). In the duty map (i2), the peak value may be lowered according to the information regarding the turning direction, for example, the turning angle (rudder angle).
The plurality of light emitting elements 40 may be controlled without changing the total amount of light in the light distribution.

Here, when the oncoming vehicle 300 driven by the oncoming vehicle approaches in front of the vehicle 200, the duty map of the left headlight unit 100L has a further peak position as compared with the duty map (h1) as shown in (i1). Based on the mountain shape shifted to the right, the duty ratio in the range of glare to the opponent (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.

Then, the corresponding LED ((i1) is surrounded by a one-dot chain line so as to increase the illuminance in front of the vehicle 200 by the amount corresponding to the decrease in the duty ratio in the glare range with respect to the oncoming person. Part) Increase the duty ratio. The duty map of the right headlight unit 100R is the same for (i2). At this time, the plurality of light emitting elements 40 may be controlled without changing the total amount of light in the light distribution. As described above, even if the oncoming vehicle 300 is shielded from light in the presence of the oncoming vehicle 300 in a sharp turning state, the front surface 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 specific embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments.

According to the vehicle lighting tool 1 of the present invention, the light distribution control that controls the 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. A vehicle lighting tool 1 including the device 50, wherein 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 is a light distribution control device 50. 40, a plurality of light emitting elements 40 so as to lower the peak value of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side to the peak value of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the opposite side of the turning direction when the vehicle 200 is turning. Is controlled, it is possible to reduce unevenness of light distribution in the driving field of view when turning.

1 Vehicle lighting equipment 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 vehicles a1, d1, g1 (Left headlight unit in a straight-ahead state) ) Duty maps a2, d2, g2 (of the right headlight unit in the straight running state) duty maps b1, e1, h1 (of the left headlight unit in the turning state) duty maps b2, e2, h2 (right side in the turning state) Duty maps c1, f1, i1 (of the headlight unit) duty maps c2, f2, i2 (of the right headlight unit in the sharp turn state) duty maps a3, b3, c3 Light distribution ADB Light distribution control device AFS Light distribution control device ECU Vehicle control device R Road X Output axis YL (Left headlight unit) Light axis YR (Right headlight unit) Light axis α (Outside) Angle β (inner) angle H Upper light distribution part L Road surface light distribution part

Claims (5)

A vehicle lighting device 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.
The left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each have a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the left-right direction.
The light distribution control device is
When the vehicle is turning , the plurality of light emitting elements are 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. Control and
A vehicle lighting device characterized in that a plurality of the light emitting elements are controlled so that the peak position of the light distribution in the headlight unit on the turning direction side is shifted to the opposite side in the turning direction . A vehicle lighting device 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.
The left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each have a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the left-right direction.
The light distribution control device is
When the vehicle is turning , the plurality of light emitting elements are 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. Control and
When the angle 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 side is set to the turning angle. A vehicle lighting fixture characterized in that a plurality of the light emitting elements are controlled so as to shift to the opposite side in the turning direction according to an increase in the number of light emitting elements . A vehicle lighting device 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.
The left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each have a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the left-right direction.
The light distribution control device is
When the vehicle is turning , the plurality of light emitting elements are 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. Control and
A vehicle lighting device characterized in that a plurality of the light emitting elements are controlled so as to have a light distribution distribution that adds illuminance in the front of the vehicle. A vehicle lighting device 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.
The left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each have a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the left-right direction.
The light distribution control device is
When the vehicle is turning , the plurality of light emitting elements are 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. Control and
A vehicle lamp that controls a plurality of the light emitting elements without changing the total amount of light in the light distribution . A vehicle lighting device 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.
The left headlight unit and the right headlight unit each include an upper light distribution unit having a plurality of light emitting elements arranged in the left-right direction, a road surface light distribution unit having a single or a plurality of light emitting elements, and the like. Inside ,
The light distribution control device is
When the vehicle is turning, the upper light distribution unit is 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. A vehicle lighting device characterized by controlling a plurality of the light emitting elements in the above.

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