JPH0585255A - Leveling device for car headlamp - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To provide a car headlamp leveling device having simple formation by canceling an error accompanied with the out of step state of a pulse motor to change the optical axis level of a car headlamp, and facilitating the adjustment of the original aiming value of the optical axis level of the headlamp. CONSTITUTION:A set signal of an optical axis level establishing device is received to drive a pulse motor 15 for displacing an optical axis changing rod member 21, and the inclination in the longitudinal direction of a car of a car headlamp 2 supported on a car body 28 is changed by the optical axis changing rod member 21 to establish the optical axis level of the car headlamp 2 to the optical axis level established by the optical axis level establishing device. The integrated error, caused by the pulse motor being out of step, of the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 is canceled by making the engaging projection 21b of the optical axis changing rod member 21 engage with the stopper parts 33a, 33b of a reference optical axis level prescribing member 33 to prescribe the moving range of the optical axis changing rod member 21.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, which corrects a change in the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp due to changes in vehicle occupants and luggage.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Generally, the optical axis level of a vehicle headlight is
The headlamp is adjusted to a predetermined initial aiming value at the stage before use or after inspection after it is mounted on the support member such as the lamp housing, and the user sets the optical axis level of the headlight to this initial aiming value. You are using the vehicle in a fixed state.

By the way, when the optical axis level of the headlight is fixed to a constant level as described above, as shown in FIG. 11, the number of passengers in the vehicle 1 increases or the vehicle 1 is loaded. When the weight of the loaded luggage increases, the rear portion of the automobile 1 sinks and decreases as indicated by the arrow A1r, and the optical axis level of the headlight 2 of the automobile 1 decreases from the initial aiming value L1 as indicated by the arrow A1f. It moves toward the axis L2, and the optical axis level becomes upward. In this way, headlight 2
If the optical axis level of the vehicle is directed upward, the appropriate position in front of the automobile 1 will not be illuminated or the driver of the oncoming vehicle will be dazzled, which will cause a safety problem in traveling of the automobile 1.

For this reason, in recent years, in order to ensure the traveling safety of the vehicle by correcting the upward movement of the optical axis level of the vehicle headlight due to changes in the occupants and luggage of the vehicle, It is legally required to equip a vehicle with a leveling device for a vehicle headlight.

Conventionally, as a leveling device for a vehicle headlight of this type, an inclination detection sensor whose output changes according to the inclination angle of the vehicle body with respect to the road surface, a pulse motor for driving the optical axis of the headlight, and A drive circuit, an arithmetic circuit for receiving the output signal of the tilt detection sensor and calculating the number of pulses for rotating the pulse motor so as to properly adjust the optical axis of the headlamp, and the headlight by driving the pulse motor. An optical axis adjusting device for a headlamp, which comprises an optical axis driving device for changing the optical axis direction of the lamp, has been proposed (for example, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 61-68).
938).

[0006]

By the way, in the above-mentioned conventional optical axis adjusting device for a headlight, an inclination detecting sensor detects an inclination angle of a vehicle body with respect to a road surface, and based on an output of the detecting sensor, an arithmetic circuit is used to detect the inclination angle. The number of pulses required to optimize the optical axis of the headlight is calculated, and the pulse motor is driven by the calculated number of pulses to correct the optical axis level of the headlight. In the optical axis adjusting device for a lamp, the control of the optical axis level of the headlight is open loop control.

Therefore, for example, in the case where the grease applied to the mechanism such as the gear train for transmitting the output of the pulse motor to the headlight is solidified by the low temperature and the gear train cannot operate smoothly. When the load of the pulse motor becomes temporarily heavy for some reason, the pulse motor causes a so-called step out, which is not exactly proportional to the number of pulses input. In this way, if the pulse motor goes out of step, an error occurs due to the adjustment of the optical axis of the headlight with respect to the output of the tilt detection sensor. The error associated with the adjustment of the optical axis is relatively small and can be ignored when the number of times of step-out of the pulse motor is small. However, the above error due to the adjustment of the optical axis is integrated with the number of times of step-out of the pulse motor, and becomes larger as the number of times of step-out of the pulse motor increases, and finally becomes a size that cannot be ignored. There was a problem.

The object of the invention according to claim 1 of the present application is to generate an initial signal for returning the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp to the reference optical axis level, and to use the rod member for changing the optical axis as a reference. The optical axis level of the headlight is returned to the reference optical axis level by driving toward the position where the optical axis level regulating member is engaged, and the integrated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level is canceled and the reference optical axis (EN) Provided is a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, which facilitates setting of an optical axis level of a vehicle headlamp to an initial aiming value by adjusting a position of a level defining member.

An object of the invention according to claim 2 of the present application is to generate an initial signal by operating a switch operated in accordance with the use of a vehicle, and restore the optical axis level of the headlight to the reference optical axis level. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp that cancels an integrated error caused by the adjustment of the optical axis level caused by the previous use of the vehicle when the vehicle is used.

An object of the present invention according to claim 3 of the present application is to provide a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, which is provided with an initial switch to generate an initial signal so as to cancel the accumulated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis. Is to provide.

An object of the invention according to claim 4 of the present application is to set the optical axis level setting means to the reference optical axis level setting position so that the rod member for changing the optical axis is associated with the reference optical axis level defining means. The pulse motor is driven until it stops together, the headlight is returned to the reference optical axis level, the integrated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level is canceled, and the position of the reference optical axis level defining means is adjusted. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp that facilitates setting of the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp to an initial aiming value.

An object of the invention according to claim 5 of the present application is that, when the optical axis level setting means is set to the reference optical axis level setting position, the optical axis changing rod member engages with the reference level defining member. By driving the above pulse motor with a number of pulses that is greater than the standard number of pulses required for, the optical axis level of the headlight is returned to the reference optical axis level, and the integration accompanying adjustment of the optical axis level is performed. An object of the present invention is to provide a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp that cancels an error.

An object of the invention according to claim 6 of the present application is to drive the pulse motor until the rod member for changing the optical axis engages with the reference optical axis level defining means and receives a stop signal from the engagement detection contact. To provide a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp that restores the optical axis level of the headlight to a reference optical axis level and cancels the accumulated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level of the headlight. Is.

The object of the invention according to claim 7 of the present application is to adjust the optical axis level of the headlight of a vehicle by causing the optical axis level setting means to output an initial signal every switching operation of the optical axis level setting means. It is an object of the present invention to provide a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp that cancels the accumulated error associated with the above.

An object of the invention according to claim 8 of the present application is to provide a restricting means for restricting the movable range of the rod member for changing the optical axis, and cause the restricting means to engage the rod member for changing the optical axis. To provide a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp that restores the optical axis level of the headlight to a reference optical axis level and cancels the accumulated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level of the headlight. Is.

An object of the invention according to claim 9 of the present application is to drive a pulse motor by receiving a stop signal from an engagement detection contact when a rod member for changing an optical axis engages with a regulating means for regulating its movable range. By stopping the, the optical axis level of the headlight is returned to the reference optical axis level, and the leveling device for the vehicle headlamp that cancels the accumulated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level of the headlight. Is to provide.

[0017]

Therefore, the invention according to claim 1 of the present application comprises an optical axis level setting means for setting the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp in a plurality of stages, and the optical axis level setting is performed. A pulse motor is driven in response to a setting signal from the means, the pulse motor displaces the rod member for changing the optical axis, the rod member for changing the optical axis is coupled to the rod member, and the rod member is tiltable in the front-back direction. The vehicle headlamp that sets the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp to the optical axis level set by the setting means by changing the tilt angle of the vehicle headlamp supported in the front-rear direction of the vehicle. A leveling device for a lamp, which is attached to a vehicle body so that its position can be adjusted, and which engages with the rod member for changing the optical axis to define a reference optical axis level of a vehicle headlamp. Regulatory member,
Switching means for outputting a reference position signal of the optical axis level when the optical axis changing rod member engages with the reference optical axis level adjusting member, and the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp is returned to the reference optical axis level. An initial signal generating means for generating an initial signal for causing the pulse motor to receive the setting signal from the optical axis level setting means,
Pulse motor drive control means for receiving the initial signal and driving the optical axis changing rod member toward an engagement position with the reference optical axis level defining member, and an optical axis level reference position from the switch means. When a signal is input, the drive control means is provided with a reset means for outputting a reset signal for stopping the drive of the pulse motor.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the initial signal generating means is initialized to the drive control means of the pulse motor by operating a switch operated with the use of the vehicle. It is characterized by outputting a signal.

Further, the invention according to claim 3 of the present application is characterized in that, in the invention according to claim 1, the initial signal generating means is an initial switch provided in a driver's seat of a vehicle.

Furthermore, the invention according to claim 4 of the present application is provided with an optical axis level setting means for setting the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp in a plurality of stages, and a setting signal from this optical axis level setting means is provided. A vehicle which receives the pulse motor and drives the pulse motor to displace the rod member for changing the optical axis by the pulse motor to be coupled to the rod member for changing the optical axis and supported by the vehicle body so as to be tiltable in the front-rear direction. A leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, wherein the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp is set to the optical axis level set by the setting means by changing a tilt angle of the vehicle headlight in the front-rear direction of the vehicle. A reference optical axis level defining member which is attached to the vehicle body so as to be positionally adjustable and which engages with the rod member for changing the optical axis to define a reference optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp; Setting from axis level setting means When the optical axis level setting means is operated while receiving the signal, the pulse motor is operated until the optical axis changing rod member is engaged with the reference optical axis level defining member and stopped. And a pulse motor drive control means for driving the.

Still further, in the invention according to claim 5 of the present application, in the invention according to claim 4, when the optical axis level setting means of the drive control means of the pulse motor is operated to a reference optical axis level setting position. The pulse motor is driven with a number of pulses larger than the standard number of pulses required for the rod member for changing the optical axis to engage with the reference optical axis level defining member.

Further, the invention according to claim 6 of the present application is the invention according to claim 4, wherein when the optical axis level setting means of the pulse motor drive control means is operated to a reference optical axis level setting position, When the rod member for changing the optical axis drives the pulse motor in a direction in which the rod member for changing the optical axis engages with the rod member for changing the optical axis, a stop signal is issued when the rod member for changing the optical axis engages with the reference optical axis level specifying member. It is characterized in that the drive of the pulse motor is stopped in response to a stop signal generated from the engagement detection contact.

Further, the invention according to claim 7 of the present application is the invention according to claim 4, wherein the drive control means for the pulse motor changes the optical axis each time the operation of the optical axis level setting means is detected. The rod member is driven until it engages with the reference level defining member.

The invention according to claim 8 of the present application further comprises optical axis level setting means for setting the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp in a plurality of stages, and a setting signal from this optical axis level setting means is provided. A vehicle which receives the pulse motor and drives the pulse motor to displace the rod member for changing the optical axis by the pulse motor to be coupled to the rod member for changing the optical axis and supported by the vehicle body so as to be tiltable in the front-rear direction. A leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, wherein the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp is set to the optical axis level set by the setting means by changing a tilt angle of the vehicle headlight in the front-rear direction of the vehicle. And the position of which is adjustable with respect to the vehicle body, and which engages with the rod member for changing the optical axis to define the reference optical axis level of the vehicle headlight, and the rod member for changing the optical axis. Regulation that regulates the movable range of And means, receiving the setting signal from the optical axis level setting unit is characterized in that a drive control means of the pulse motor for driving the pulse motor.

Further, the invention according to claim 9 of the present application is the invention according to claim 8, wherein the drive control means of the pulse motor drives the rod member for changing the optical axis, and the rod for changing the optical axis. When the member engages with the regulating means for regulating its movable range, the driving of the pulse motor is stopped by receiving a stop signal from the engagement detection contact.

[0026]

According to the invention of claim 1 of the present application, when the initial signal is generated, the rod member for changing the optical axis is driven toward the engagement position with the reference optical axis level defining member, Since the optical axis level of the headlight returns to the reference optical axis level, the accumulated error accompanying the adjustment of the optical axis level of the headlight is canceled, and by adjusting the position of the reference optical axis level defining means, It becomes easy to set the optical axis level of the vehicle headlight to the initial aiming value, and
Since the reference optical axis level defining means can cancel the accumulated error accompanying the adjustment of the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp and set the optical axis level to the initial aiming value, the leveling device for the vehicle headlamp The structure of is also simplified.

According to the invention of claim 2 of the present application, by operating the switch that is operated in association with the use of the vehicle, the use of the vehicle automatically causes the previous use of the vehicle. It is possible to cancel the accumulated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level of the headlight.

According to the invention of claim 3 of the present application, by operating the initial switch, it is possible to cancel the accumulated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level of the headlight.

According to the invention of claim 4 of the present application, when the optical axis level setting means is set to the reference optical axis level setting position, the optical axis changing rod member engages with the reference optical axis level defining means. The pulse motor is driven until it stops, and the optical axis level of the headlight returns to the reference optical axis level, not only can the integrated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis of the headlight be canceled, but also the reference light By adjusting the position of the axis level defining means, the optical axis level of the headlight can be easily set to the initial aiming value.

According to the invention of claim 5 of the present application, when the optical axis level setting means is set to the reference optical axis level setting position, in the pulse motor, the rod member for changing the optical axis is used as the reference optical axis level. The headlamp always returns to the reference optical axis level because it is driven with a number of pulses higher than the standard number of pulses required to engage with the regulation means, and it is possible to adjust the optical axis level of the headlight. It is possible to cancel the accompanying integration error.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, when the optical axis level setting means is set to the reference optical axis level setting position, the rod member for changing the optical axis of the pulse motor defines the reference optical axis level. The optical axis of the headlamp is returned to the reference optical axis level by driving the rod member for changing the optical axis until it is engaged with the means and receives the stop signal from the engagement detection contact. The level always returns to the reference optical axis level, and it is possible to cancel the accumulated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level.

According to the invention of claim 7 of the present application, an initial signal is generated every switching operation of the optical axis level setting means, and an error caused by adjusting or changing the optical axis can be canceled.

According to the invention of claim 8 of the present application, when the rod member for changing the optical axis is engaged with the regulating means for regulating the movable range of the rod member for changing the optical axis, the optical axis level of the headlight is increased. Has returned to the reference optical axis level, and with a single regulating member, it is possible to cancel the accumulated error due to the adjustment of the optical axis level of the headlight and adjust the initial reference optical axis level. The structure of the headlamp leveling device is simplified.

According to the invention of claim 9 of the present application, when the rod member for changing the optical axis is engaged with the restricting means for restricting the movable range, the pulse motor receives the stop signal from the engagement detecting contact and moves forward. Since the optical axis level of the headlight is returned to the reference optical axis level, it stops, so that the optical axis level of the headlight can be adjusted without applying unnecessary force to the rod member for changing the optical axis or the regulation means. It is possible to cancel the accumulated error due to.

[0035]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment in which a vehicle headlamp leveling device according to the present invention is applied to an automobile 1 of FIG. 11 will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Example 1 The leveling device for a vehicle headlamp shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 sets the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 (see FIG. 11) of the vehicle 1 to 0 position, 1 position, 2 position and An optical axis level setting device 11 for switching to four setting positions of three positions is provided. The optical axis level setting device 11 includes resistors R1, R2, R3 and R4 and an optical axis level changeover switch 12 which are connected in series between a DC power supply line Vcc connected to an on-vehicle battery (not shown) and ground. Become. This optical axis level selector switch 12
A zero position contact point P1 connected to a connection point between the resistors R1 and R2, a one position contact point P1 connected to a connection point between the resistors R2 and R3, and a two position contact point P2 connected to a connection point between the resistors R3 and R4. And the above DC power supply line Vc
It has a 3-position contact P3 connected to c. From the 0 position contact P0, the 1 position contact P1, the 2 position contact P2 and the 3 position contact P3, the DC power supply line Vcc is generated by the resistors R1 to R4.
Has a DC potential of a value obtained by resistance-dividing the voltage of, and the DC voltage corresponding to each of the 0 position, 1 position, 2 position and 3 position is output from the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12. It is taken out as a level setting signal.

The 0 position, 1 position, 2 position and 3 position are selected as follows, for example. The 0 position is selected when the driver is seated on the driving seat of the automobile 1 and when the driver and the occupant are seated on the driving seat and the front seat, respectively. When the 0 position is selected, the optical axis level of the headlight of the automobile 1 matches the initial aiming value LA1 (see FIG. 11) described later. The above-mentioned 1 position is selected when the occupant is seated on a part of the rear seat in addition to the driving seat and the front seat of the automobile 1. Further, the two positions are selected when the occupant and the driver are in all seats of the automobile 1. Furthermore, the above-mentioned three positions are for the car 1
This is selected when passengers and drivers are seated in all the seats of the vehicle and luggage is loaded in the trunk of the automobile 1.

The optical axis level setting signal output from the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is input to the A / D conversion circuit 13. The A / D conversion circuit 13 converts the input setting signal into a digital signal. A /
The output of the D conversion circuit 13 is output to the determination circuit 16.

The judgment circuit 16 is provided with the number of rotation angle pulses corresponding to the magnitude of the setting signal converted into the digital signal by the A / D conversion circuit 13 and the switching of the optical axis level changeover switch 12. A pulse composed of a rotation direction pulse that defines whether the pulse motor 15 of the actuator 14 for moving the headlamp 2 to adjust the optical axis level is rotated in the forward direction or the reverse direction from the direction of change in the magnitude of the setting signal. The rotation angle signal of the motor 15 is output.

The rotation angle signal is input to the motor drive circuit 17 which drives the pulse motor 15. The motor drive circuit 15 rotates the pulse motor 15 in the rotation direction of the pulse motor 15 determined by the determination circuit 16 by an angle defined by the rotation direction pulse of the rotation angle signal.

The actuator 14 for changing the optical axis level of the headlight 2 of the automobile 1 by the pulse motor 15 has a structure as shown in FIG. That is, the actuator 14 causes the pulse motor 15 and the outputs of the pulse motor 15 to cause the slide bearing portions 19a and 19b formed in the housing 18 to move to arrows A2 and A3.
, A rod member 21 for changing the optical axis supported slidably in the axial direction, a pinion gear 22 fixed to the output shaft 15a of the pulse motor 15, a gear 23 meshing with the pinion gear 22, Another pinion gear 24 coaxially fixed to the gear 23 and the rod member 2 for changing the optical axis that meshes with the pinion gear 24.
1 and rack teeth 25 formed in 1.

The optical axis changing rod member 21 has a spherical end 21a. A cap portion 27a at the tip of a coupling member 27 fixed to the upper portion behind the reflector 26 of the headlight 2 is fitted onto the sphere 21a, and the optical axis changing member 21 is coupled to the reflector 26 of the headlight 2. To be done. The headlamp 2 has a vehicle-body-side support member 29 in which a tip portion fixed to the vehicle body 28 is a sphere 29a and a tip-end portion of the vehicle-body-side support member 2 in a lower portion behind the reflector 26.
Two sets of tilt support members 32 (headlight side support member 31 which is a cap portion 31a to be externally fitted to the spherical body 29a of FIG. 9 (in FIG. 2, only one set of tilt support members 32 appears. ), As shown by arrow A4,
Is supported by the vehicle body so as to be tiltable in the front-back direction.

The amount of extension of the actuator 14 from the housing 18 of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis changes according to each position selected by the optical axis level changeover switch 12 (see FIG. 1). This allows
In the headlight 2, the tilt angle of the vehicle body 28 in the front-rear direction indicated by the arrow A4 changes, and the optical axis level of the headlight 2 is set to the optical axis level selected by the optical axis level changeover switch 12. ..

On the other hand, the housing 18 of the actuator 14 accommodates a reference optical axis level defining member 33 which defines the reference optical axis level of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis. The reference optical axis level defining member 33 includes
Engagement projection 2 projected from rod member 21 for changing the optical axis
Two stoppers 33a, 33b which engage with 1b and define the sliding range of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis.
At an interval corresponding to the slide range of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis, and the rod member 2 for changing the optical axis.
It is projected toward 1.

The reference optical axis level defining member 33 is screwed into an adjusting screw 35 rotatably supported at both end portions 35a and 35b by two bearing portions 34a and 43b provided in the housing 18 of the actuator 14. .. The end portion 1 of the adjusting screw 35 on the protruding side from the housing 14
When a blade of an adjusting driver (not shown) is fitted into the driver groove 35c formed on the end surface of 5b and is rotated, the reference optical axis level defining member 33 is moved along the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis so that the reference optical axis level defining member 33 has arrows A5, A6. Move as shown in.

Of the two stoppers 33a and 33b, one stopper 33a and the rod member 2 for changing the optical axis.
As shown in FIG. 3, the engaging projection 21b of No. 1 is turned on by the engagement of the two, and a reference position signal of the optical axis level indicating that the optical axis level of the headlight 2 is initialized to the reference position. Switch contacts 37 and 38 of the output switch 36 are formed respectively.

Switch contacts 37, 3 of the switch 36
The reference position signal output from 8 is input to the latch circuit 41 as a reset signal to reset the latch circuit 41, as shown in FIG.

An initial signal for returning the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 to the reference optical axis level is output from the relay contact 43 of the relay 42 which is energized by turning on an ignition switch (not shown) of the automobile. It outputs to the latch circuit 41. The latch circuit 41 stores that the initial signal is input. Then, in response to the output of the latch circuit 41 in the storage state of the initial signal, the A / D conversion circuit 13 causes the rod member 2 for changing the optical axis.
The determination circuit 16 outputs to the motor drive circuit 17 a signal for driving 1 toward the engagement position with the reference optical axis level defining member 33.

The leveling device for an automobile headlamp shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 having the above-described structure is shown by an arrow A in FIG.
As shown by 7, the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is extended from the housing 18 of the actuator 14 so that the optical axis level of the headlight 2 is higher than the horizontal direction (direction parallel to the road surface). In this state, it is supplied from the parts manufacturer. That is, before incorporating this apparatus into the body of an automobile, the reference optical axis level defining member 33 is in the position (I) shown by the solid line in FIG.
An engaging protrusion 21b of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is engaged with a stopper 33b on the front side of the vehicle body 28 among 3b.

When this device is incorporated into the body 28 of an automobile, the connector 44 (see FIG. 1) for connecting the lead wire of the pulse motor 15 and the output lead wire of the motor drive circuit is removed and the direction shown by arrow A8 in FIG. Then, turn the adjusting screw 35 to move the reference optical axis level defining member 33,
The vehicle body 28 is moved to the front. Then, at the position of (II) shown by the dotted line in FIG. 4, the reference optical axis level defining member 3
Of the two stopper portions 33a and 33b of No. 3, the vehicle body 28
The engaging protrusion 21b of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is engaged with the stopper portion 33a on the rear side of the. In this state, if the adjusting screw 35 is further rotated in the direction of arrow A8,
The engaging protrusion 2b of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is pushed by the stopper 33a of the reference optical axis level defining member 33,
As shown in FIG. 5, the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is extended from the housing 18. As a result, the optical axis level of the headlight 2 is set from the level indicated by arrow A7 in FIG. 5 to the initial aiming value indicated by arrow A9. This initial aiming value is, for example, (-
It is set to a range LA1 (see FIG. 11) of 0.58) degrees to (−0.85) degrees.

After setting the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 to the initial aiming value as described above, the pulse motor 15
The connector 44 for connecting the lead wire of (4) to the output lead wire of the motor drive circuit 17 is connected.

In the above state, the optical axis level setting device 1 of FIG.
Set the optical axis level changeover switch 12 of 1 to 0 position, 1
When switched to any one of the four setting positions of position 2, position 2 and position 3, as described above, the optical axis level setting signal output from the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is received, and A The / D conversion circuit 13 outputs a rotation angle signal of the pulse motor 15 including a rotation angle pulse and a rotation direction pulse that defines whether the pulse motor 15 is normally rotated or reversely rotated.

This rotation angle signal is input to the determination circuit 16 of the rotation direction of the pulse motor 15 to determine the rotation direction of the pulse motor 15. Based on the determination result, the motor drive circuit 17 is determined by the determination circuit 16 described above. The pulse motor 15 is rotated by the angle defined by the rotation direction pulse of the rotation degree signal in the rotation direction.

The output of the pulse motor 15 at this time is transmitted to the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis through a gear train composed of the pinion teeth 22, the gear 23, the pinion teeth 24 and the rack teeth 25 of FIG. The amount of extension of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis from the housing 18 changes, and the inclination of the reflector 26 of the headlight 2 changes. As a result, the optical axis level of the headlight 2 moves to the set position selected by the optical axis level changeover switch 12.
0 position contact P of the optical axis level selector switch 12
By switching between the 0 to 3 position contacts P3, the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 is in the range L of (-0.28) degrees to (-1.43) degrees with respect to the horizontal direction of the vehicle body 28, for example.
It is adjusted by A2 (see FIG. 11).

By the way, in the process of adjusting the optical axis level of the headlight 2, when the grease for lubricating the gear train is solidified and adheres to the above components of the gear train due to low temperature or the like, the pulse motor 15 is When the pulse motor 15 loses synchronization due to a temporary increase in the load, the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 deviates from the set position selected by the optical axis level changeover switch 12, and the optical axis level is set. There will be an error. This optical axis level setting error can be almost ignored when the pulse motor 15 has a small number of steps. But,
When the number of times of step-out of the pulse motor 15 increases, the above-mentioned setting error of the optical axis level is integrated and becomes large. In the present embodiment, this setting error is canceled in the following manner by turning on the ignition switch.

That is, as described above, the latch circuit 41 of FIG. 1 is provided with the relay contact 43 of the relay 42 which is energized by turning on the ignition switch of the automobile 1.
When an initial signal for returning the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 to the reference optical axis level is input, the fact that this initial signal is input is stored. Then, in response to the output of the latch circuit 41 in the storage state of the initial signal, the A / D conversion circuit 13 causes the rod member 2 for changing the optical axis.
The determination circuit 16 outputs to the motor drive circuit 17 a signal for driving 1 toward the engagement position with the reference optical axis level defining member 33.

As a result, the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is provided.
Of the reference optical axis level defining member 33.
Driven until it engages with one stopper 33a of FIG.
From the switch contacts 37, 38 of the switch 36 shown in
The optical axis level reference position signal (initial signal) indicating that the optical axis level has become the reference position and initialized by the engagement of both is output to the latch circuit 41 as a reset signal, and the latch circuit 41 is reset. Latch circuit 4
By this reset of 1, the optical axis level setting signal output from the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is received, and the A / D conversion circuit 13, the determination circuit 16 and the motor drive circuit 17 are caused to operate by the optical axis. The level changeover switch 12 moves the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 to the set position selected at that time.

As described above, once the ignition switch is operated, the optical axis level of the headlight 2 is once initialized to the reference optical axis level, and when the engine is started to use the automobile 1, the automatic operation is started. Pulse motor 1
The accumulated error of the headlight 2 due to the step out of 5 is canceled.

In the above embodiment, the initial signal is relayed by the relay 42 shown in FIG. 1 by operating an accessory switch or a dimmer switch, which is used in association with the use of an automobile, instead of operating the ignition switch.
Alternatively, the output may be output from the relay contact 43.

Embodiment 2 The configuration of another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. The leveling device for a vehicle headlamp having the configuration shown in FIG. 7 is replaced by the driver of the vehicle 1 instead of the relay of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp of Example 1 having the configuration of FIG. 1 already described. An initial switch 45 for outputting an initial signal to the latch circuit 41 by operating the driver's seat is provided. By doing so, even if the optical axis level of the headlight 2 is initialized and the step-out of the pulse motor 15 is integrated and an integration error of the optical axis level of the headlight 2 occurs, the operation of the automobile 1 is continued. By operating the initial switch 45 by a person, the integrated error of the optical axis level of the headlight 2 can be canceled. In addition, in FIG.
Corresponding reference numerals are given to the portions corresponding to, and duplicate description will be omitted.

Embodiment 3 The construction of yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG.
The leveling device for a vehicle headlamp having the configuration shown in FIG.
The optical axis output from the movable contact PC when the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched in place of the relay 42 of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp of the first embodiment having the configuration of FIG. 1 already described. Latch circuit 4 detects the optical axis level initial signal by detecting the fluctuation of the level setting signal voltage
A switching determination circuit 46 for outputting 1 is provided. In this way, each time the driver of the automobile 1 switches the optical axis level changeover switch 12, the optical axis level of the headlight 2 is initialized, and the step out of the pulse motor 15 is integrated to light the headlight. Even if the accumulated error occurs at the axis level, this accumulated error can be canceled. Note that FIG.
In FIG. 1, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are shown with corresponding reference numerals, and duplicate explanations are omitted.

Embodiment 4 The construction of yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG.
The leveling device for an automobile headlamp having the configuration shown in FIG.
An optical axis level setting device 11 similar to that described in FIG. 1 for switching the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 to four setting positions of 0 position, 1 position, 2 position and 3 position is provided. The optical axis level changeover switch 12 of the optical axis level setting device 11 sets DC voltage corresponding to the 0 position contact 0, 1 position contact 1, 2 position contact 2 and 3 position contact 3 from its movable contact PC. Output as a signal.

The optical axis level setting signal output from the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is input to the A / D conversion circuit 13. The A / D conversion circuit 13 is an A / D converter that converts the input setting signal into a digital signal.
The output of the conversion circuit 13 is input to the determination circuit 51.

This judging circuit 51 judges the direction in which the setting signal changes, and judges whether the pulse motor 15 should be rotated in the normal direction or the reverse direction. Based on the judgment result, the rotation angle pulse of the rotation angle signal is determined as follows. Output to the motor drive circuit 17 to rotate the pulse motor 15 forward or backward. The determination circuit 51 also determines when the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched from the 1-position contact P1 to the 0-position contact P0 and when the 1-position contact 1 is selected.
When the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched from the 0-position contact P0 to the 1-position contact P1 when it is switched to the 0-position contact P0, the number of rotation angle pulses output, for example, about 2
Double rotation angle pulse is output.

The motor drive circuit 17 rotates the pulse motor 15 in the rotation direction of the pulse motor 15 determined by the determination circuit 51 by the angle defined by the rotation angle signal, and the mechanism shown in FIG. The amount of extension of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis from the housing 18 is changed to set the optical axis level of the headlamp 2 to the setting position of the optical axis level changeover switch 12.

With such a configuration, as described above, when the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched from the 1-position contact P1 to the 0-position contact P0, and through the 1-position contact P1. When it is switched to the 0 position contact P0, the rotation angle pulse is about twice the number of rotation angle pulses output when the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched from the 0 position contact P0 to the 1 position contact P1. Is output, the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis shown in FIG.
The engaging projection 21b must be the reference optical axis level defining member 33.
It is driven and initialized until it engages with one of the stoppers 33a, and the step-out of the pulse motor 15 cancels the setting error of the optical axis level that has occurred until then.

As in the fourth embodiment, when the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched from the 1-position contact P1 to the 0-position contact P0, the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 becomes 0. Instead of causing the determination circuit 51 to output more rotation angle pulses than the number of rotation angle pulses output when the position contact P0 is switched to the one-position contact P1, the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is a one-position contact. When the engagement projection 21b of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis shown in FIG. 2 is engaged with the one stopper 33a of the reference optical axis level defining member 33 when the P1 is switched to the 0 position contact P0, The determination circuit 51 continuously outputs the rotation angle pulse, and when both are engaged, the switch 36 of the switch shown in FIG. 3 is switched. By turning on the contacts 37 and 38, the driving of the pulse motor 15 may be stopped.

Fifth Embodiment The components of the circuit of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the fourth embodiment described with reference to FIG. 9, but the leveling device for a vehicle headlight of the fifth embodiment has an optical axis level. Changeover switch 1
Even when the movable contact PC of No. 2 is switched from the 1-position contact P1 to the 0-position contact P0, and also when the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched from the 0-position contact P0 to the 1-position contact P1. The determination circuit 51 is different from that of the fourth embodiment in that the determination circuit 51 outputs the same number of rotation angle pulses.

In general, the step-out of the pulse motor 15 is also reversed when the movable contact of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched in the positive direction from the 0 position contact P0 to the 3 position contact P3. It also occurs when the switch is made in the negative direction from 0 to the 0 position contact point P0. Then, the integrated value of the setting error of the optical axis level due to the step out of the pulse motor 15 which occurs when the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched to the plus direction is the movable contact of the optical axis level changeover switch 12. If it is larger than the integrated value of the setting error of the optical axis level due to the step-out of the pulse motor 15 generated when the PC is switched in the negative direction, it corresponds to each position of the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12. It is smaller than the amount of extension of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis from the housing 18.

Therefore, in this state, when the movable contact PC of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is switched from the 1-position contact P1 to the 0-position contact P0, the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis shown in FIG. The engaging projection 21b is driven and initialized until it engages with one stopper 33a of the reference optical axis level defining member 33,
The step-out of the pulse motor 15 cancels the integrated value of the setting error of the optical axis level that has occurred up to that point.

Contrary to the above, the optical axis level changeover switch 1
The movable contact P of the optical axis level changeover switch 12 is the integrated value of the setting error of the optical axis level due to the step out of the pulse motor 15 which occurs when the movable contact PC 2 of the second direction is changed over to the negative direction.
Pulse motor 1 generated when C is switched to the positive direction
5 is larger than the integrated value of the setting error of the optical axis level due to step out, the movable contact P of the optical axis level changeover switch 12
Rod member 2 for changing the optical axis corresponding to each C position
It is larger than the feeding amount of the No. 1 from the housing 18.

Therefore, in this state, when the movable contact PC of the optical axis level change-over switch 12 is switched from the 2-position contact P2 to the 3-position P3, the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis shown in FIG. Compound protrusion 21
b is the other stopper 33 of the reference optical axis level defining member 33.
It is driven and initialized until it engages with b, and the step-out of the pulse motor 15 cancels the integrated value of the setting error of the optical axis level that has occurred up to that point.

As can be seen from the above, the fifth embodiment eliminates the need for the latch circuit and the like used in the first, second and third embodiments, and simplifies the configuration.

In the fifth embodiment, a pulse is generated when the engaging projection 21b of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis shown in FIG. 2 is engaged with either of the two stoppers 33a and 33b of the reference optical axis level defining member 33. The motor 15 is locked, but in order to avoid this locking, for example, a configuration as shown in FIG. 10 can be adopted. That is, the switches 36 and 61 that are turned on when the engaging projections 21a of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis shown in FIG. 2 are engaged with the two stoppers 33a and 33b of the reference optical axis level defining member 33 (FIG. 10). Are provided, and the contacts 37, 3 of these switches 36 are provided.
8 and the ON signals of the contacts 62 and 63 of the switch 61 may be input to the determination circuit 52 to stop the driving of the pulse motor 15. The switches 36 and 61
Is a contact of a micro switch which is turned on when the engaging projection 21b of the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis shown in FIG. 2 is engaged with either of the two stoppers 33a and 33b of the reference optical axis level defining member 33. It may be.

In the above embodiments, the mechanism for driving the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is not limited to the one using the gear train consisting of the pinion gears and the gears. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, a worm 71, a worm wheel 72, the gear 73, and the rack portion 25 of the optical axis changing member 21 may be combined. In this configuration, adjustment of the optical axis level of the headlight 2 to the initial aiming value is not specifically shown, but a pulse is supplied from the pulse generator to the pulse motor 15 to adjust the optical axis level of the headlight 2. It suffices to drive the pulse motor 15 until the optical axis reaches the initial optical axis level.

In the above embodiment, the headlamp 2 of the automobile 1 is supported by the lower portion of the reflector 26 thereof so as to be tiltable, and the rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is coupled to the upper portion of the reflector 26 for the headlight. I tried to adjust the optical axis level of the lamp 2,
The headlamp 2 is supported by an upper portion of the reflector 26 so as to be tiltable, and a rod member 21 for changing the optical axis is coupled to the lower portion of the reflector 26 to adjust the optical axis level of the headlamp 2. You can also Fix the lamp part of the headlight 2,
Alternatively, only the reflector 26 may be tilted as described above.

Needless to say, the present invention can be applied not only to the automobile 1 shown in FIG. 11 but also to a vehicle such as a truck for carrying luggage.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an embodiment of a leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of a mechanical portion of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp of FIG.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory view of switch contacts formed on an engaging projection of a rod member for changing an optical axis and a stopper of a reference optical axis level defining member in the mechanical portion of FIG.

4 is an operation explanatory view of a mechanical portion of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp of FIG.

5 is an operation explanatory view of a mechanical portion of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp of FIG. 2. FIG.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of a modified example of a mechanical portion of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of another embodiment of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of yet another embodiment of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of yet another embodiment of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of yet another embodiment of the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of initial aiming of the optical axis level of the vehicle headlight and the optical axis level value of the vehicle headlight set by the leveling device of the headlight.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Automotive 2 Headlight 11 Optical axis level setting device 12 Optical axis level selector switch 13 A / D conversion circuit 14 Actuator 15 Pulse motor 16 Judgment circuit 17 Motor drive circuit 18 Housing 19a Slide bearing section 19b Sliding bearing section 21 Optical axis change Rod member for use 23 Gear 24 Pinion gear 25 Rack 26 Reflector 28 Car body 29 Car body side support member 31 Headlight side support member 32 Tilt support member 33 Reference optical axis level regulating member 33a Stopper part 33b Stopper part 35 Adjustment screw 36 Switch 37 switch contact 38 switch contact 41 latch circuit 42 relay 45 initial switch 46 switching determination circuit 51 determination circuit 52 determination circuit 61 switch 62 switch 63 switch 71 worm 72 worm wheel 3 gear

Front Page Continuation (72) Inventor Takuo Motomori 3-1, Shinchu Fuchu-cho, Aki-gun, Hiroshima Prefecture Mazda Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Takashi Suzuki 3-3-1 Shinchu, Fuchu-cho, Aki-gun, Hiroshima Prefecture Mazda Corporation ( 72) Inventor Susumu Nakagawa 3-1, Shinchi Fuchu-cho, Aki-gun, Hiroshima Prefecture Mazda Motor Corporation

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. An optical axis level setting means for setting the optical axis level of a vehicle headlamp in a plurality of steps, and driving a pulse motor in response to a setting signal from the optical axis level setting means,
The pulse motor displaces the rod member for changing the optical axis to be coupled to the rod member for changing the optical axis, and is supported by the vehicle body so as to be tiltable in the front-rear direction. A leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, which adjusts the optical axis level of a vehicle headlamp to the optical axis level set by the setting means by changing a tilt angle to a direction, the position adjustment being performed with respect to a vehicle body. A reference optical axis level defining member that is mounted so that the optical axis changing rod member engages with the optical axis changing rod member to define a reference optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp, and the optical axis changing rod member is a reference. Switch means for outputting a reference position signal of the optical axis level when engaged with the optical axis level adjusting member, and an initial signal for generating an initial signal for returning the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp to the reference optical axis level. Generating means Receiving the setting signal from the optical axis level setting means to drive the pulse motor, while receiving the initial signal, the rod member for changing the optical axis is moved toward the engagement position with the reference optical axis level defining member. Drive means for driving the pulse motor, and reset means for outputting a reset signal for stopping the drive of the pulse motor to the drive control means when the reference position signal of the optical axis level from the switch means is input. A leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, which is characterized in that: 2. The vehicle headlight according to claim 1, wherein the initial signal generating means outputs an initial signal to the drive control means of the pulse motor by operating a switch operated in accordance with the use of the vehicle. Light leveling device. 3. The leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to claim 1, wherein the initial signal generating means is an initial switch provided in a driver's seat of the vehicle. 4. An optical axis level setting means for setting the optical axis level of a vehicle headlamp in a plurality of steps, and receiving a setting signal from the optical axis level setting means, driving a pulse motor,
The pulse motor displaces the rod member for changing the optical axis to be coupled to the rod member for changing the optical axis, and is supported by the vehicle body so as to be tiltable in the front-rear direction. A leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, which adjusts the optical axis level of a vehicle headlamp to the optical axis level set by the setting means by changing a tilt angle to a direction, the position adjustment being performed with respect to a vehicle body. A reference optical axis level defining member which is movably mounted and which defines the reference optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp by engaging with the optical axis changing rod member, and a setting signal from the optical axis level setting means. In response to this, the pulse motor is driven, and when the optical axis level setting means is operated, the pulse motor is operated until the rod member for changing the optical axis is engaged with the reference optical axis level defining member and stopped. Driving pal Vehicle headlamp leveling device being characterized in that a drive control means of the motor. 5. The drive control means of the pulse motor, when the optical axis level setting means is operated to a reference optical axis level setting position, the optical axis changing rod member engages with the reference optical axis level defining member. 5. The leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to claim 4, wherein the pulse motor is driven with a number of pulses that is larger than the standard number of pulses required for the operation. 6. The drive control means of the pulse motor, when the optical axis level setting means is operated to a reference optical axis level setting position, the optical axis changing rod member engages with the reference optical axis level defining member. The pulse motor is driven in the direction to stop, and when the rod member for changing the optical axis engages with the reference optical axis level defining member, a stop signal is issued. The leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to claim 4, wherein: 7. The drive control means of the pulse motor drives the rod member for changing the optical axis until it engages with the reference level defining member every time the operation of the optical axis level setting means is detected. The leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to claim 4. 8. An optical axis level setting means for setting the optical axis level of the vehicle headlamp in a plurality of steps, and driving a pulse motor in response to a setting signal from the optical axis level setting means,
The pulse motor displaces the rod member for changing the optical axis to be coupled to the rod member for changing the optical axis, and is supported by the vehicle body so as to be tiltable in the front-rear direction. A leveling device for a vehicle headlamp, which adjusts the optical axis level of a vehicle headlamp to the optical axis level set by the setting means by changing a tilt angle to a direction, the position adjustment being performed with respect to a vehicle body. A restricting means that is mounted so as to be capable of engaging with the rod member for changing the optical axis to define the reference optical axis level of the vehicle headlight and for limiting the movable range of the rod member for changing the optical axis. And a pulse motor drive control means for driving the pulse motor in response to a setting signal from the optical axis level setting means, the leveling device for a vehicle headlamp. 9. A pulse motor drive control means drives a rod member for changing the optical axis, and when the rod member for changing the optical axis engages with the regulating means for regulating its movable range, engagement detection is performed. 9. The leveling device for a vehicle headlamp according to claim 8, wherein the driving of the pulse motor is stopped in response to a stop signal from the contact.