Vehicle lamp

There is provided a vehicle lamp including a projection lens, a first light source arranged at a rear of the projection lens and configured to emit light for forming a predetermined light distribution pattern, a reflector configured to reflect the light emitted from the first light source towards the projection lens, a first array light source arranged at the rear of the projection lens and including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row, and a second array light source arranged at the rear of the projection lens and including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row. The first array light source and the second array light source are arranged in an upper-lower direction.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of priority of Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2016-106380, 2016-106381, 2016-106382 and 2016-106383, all filed on May 27, 2016, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects of the present invention relates to a vehicle lamp.

BACKGROUND

In recent years, there has been developed a vehicle lamp including an array light source having a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements such as Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) arranged in a row shape.

JP-A-2016-039020 discloses a vehicle lamp including an array light source in a projector-type optical system using a single projection lens.

However, according to the vehicle lamp disclosed in JP-A-2016-039020, the number of the semiconductor light emitting elements that can be mounted to the array light source is limited due to a space of the lamp. For this reason, in some cases, a desired light distribution pattern may not be added to a predetermined light distribution pattern such as a light distribution pattern for low beam by using the array light source.

Also, there has been developed a vehicle lamp using a multifocal projection lens.

For example, JP-A-2011-175818 suggests a vehicle lamp having a multifocal projection lens, a light source for low beam light distribution and a light source for high beam light distribution. According to this vehicle lamp, it is possible to design a variety of light distribution patterns by the respective light sources.

However, according to the lamp disclosed in JP-A-2011-175818, since the projection lens is divided in an upper-lower direction, there is room for improving an outward design when seeing the lamp from the front.

Also, according to the lamp disclosed in JP-A-2016-039020, an additional light distribution pattern for high beam and a light distribution pattern for low beam do not partially overlap with each other in the vicinity of a boundary of the respective light distribution patterns, so that a road surface is not sufficiently illuminated.

Further, according to the lamp disclosed in JP-A-2016-039020, the number of the semiconductor light emitting elements that can be mounted to the array light source is limited due to the space of the lamp. For this reason, in some cases, a light distribution pattern may not be formed using the array light source, depending on utilities or situations.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle lamp capable of improving a degree of design freedom of a light distribution pattern that is to be added to a predetermined light distribution pattern, while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size.

A second aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle lamp capable of improving a degree of design freedom of a light distribution pattern while keeping an aesthetic quality of the lamp.

A third aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle lamp capable of enhancing a road surface illumination function.

A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle lamp capable of forming a variety of light distribution patterns while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size.

According to an illustrative embodiment, there is provided a vehicle lamp including:

a projection lens; a first light source arranged at a rear of the projection lens and configured to emit light for forming a predetermined light distribution pattern;

a reflector configured to reflect the light emitted from the first light source towards the projection lens;

a first array light source arranged at the rear of the projection lens and including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row; and

a second array light source arranged at the rear of the projection lens and including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row,

wherein the first array light source and the second array light source are arranged in an upper-lower direction.

According to the above configuration, the vehicle lamp includes the first array light source and the second array light source, and the first array light source and the second array light source are arranged in the upper-lower direction. For this reason, it may be possible to mount more semiconductor light emitting elements to the lamp without increasing a width of the lamp in a left-right direction. Also, since it is possible to mount more semiconductor light emitting elements, as compared to a lamp having one array light source, it may be possible to improve a degree of design freedom of a light distribution pattern that is to be added to a predetermined light distribution pattern, which is to be formed by the light of the first light source.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the projection lens may have a first back focal point and a second back focal point,

the first array light source may be arranged at a position corresponding to the first back focal point, and

the second array light source may be arranged at a position corresponding to the second back focal point.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to illuminate the lights ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first array light source and the second array light source, as clear light distribution patterns while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size. Also, it may be possible to use the light to be emitted from the first array light source, as light for enhancing the road surface illumination function, for example.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source may be configured to be individually lit on and off,

the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements of the second array light source may be configured to be individually lit on and off, and

in light distribution patterns to be projected on a vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp, a light distribution pattern which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source and a light distribution pattern which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the second array light source may be offset in a left-right direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to increase the number of divisions in the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source and the second array light source, and to improve the resolutions thereof, so that it is possible to form a variety of light distribution patterns, depending on utilities or situations.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the second array light source may be configured to emit light for forming at least a part of a light distribution pattern for high beam.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to effectively utilize the light to be emitted from the second array light source, as at least a part of a light distribution pattern for high beam.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the first array light source may be arranged between the first back focal point of the projection lens and the first light source in a front-rear direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to illuminate the light emitted from the first array light source ahead of the lamp through the vicinity of the first back focal point while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size in the front-rear direction.

In the above vehicle lamp, the first light source may be configured to emit light for forming a light distribution pattern for low beam, and the vehicle lamp may further include:

a base member, on which the first light source, the first array light source and the second array light source are mounted; and

an optical member which is a component separate from the base member and is configured to function as a shade for forming a cutoff line of the light distribution pattern for low beam at a state where the optical member is mounted to the base member.

When a part configured to function as a shade is formed at a tip end of the base member, the tip end has a predetermined thickness due to restraints of processing conditions of the base member. Since the tip end cannot reflect forward the light, it becomes a cause of a dark part.

According to the above configuration, since the optical member is a component separate from the base member, it may be possible to thinly form the tip end without being restrained to the processing conditions of the base member. For this reason, it may be possible to reduce the thickness of the tip end becoming a cause of a dark part, so that it is possible to suppress the dark part to such a level that a driver cannot notice the same.

In the above vehicle lamp, the optical member may include:

a first reflective surface configured to reflect the light emitted from the first array light source towards an incident surface of the projection lens; and

a second reflective surface configured to reflect the light emitted from the second array light source towards the incident surface of the projection lens.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to further effectively use the lights to be emitted from the first array light source and the second array light source.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the base member may include a first surface on which the first light source is arranged and a second surface on which the first array light source and the second array light source are arranged, and

the second surface may be an inclined surface which is inclined relative to an optical axis of the projection lens such that a light output part of the first array light source arranged on the second surface faces obliquely in a front and upper direction and a light output part of the first array light source is located below the first back focal point.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to enable most of the light to be emitted from the first array light source to pass by the first back focal point while arranging the first array light source at a position avoiding a light path for forming a light distribution pattern for low beam. For this reason, it may be possible to effectively use the light of the first array light source.

The above vehicle lamp may further include:

a rigid circuit board, on which the first array light source and the second array light source are arranged, and

at least a part of the rigid circuit board may be fixed to the inclined surface.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to easily arrange the first array light source and the second array light source at predetermined positions of the base member.

The vehicle lamp may further include:

a flexible circuit board, on which the first array light source and the second array light source are arranged, and

at least a part of the flexible circuit board may be fixed to the inclined surface.

According to the above configuration, the operability may be improved upon the mounting of the first array light source and the second array light source to the base member.

In the above vehicle lamp,

a center position of the first array light source may be arranged at a position different from a center position of the second array light source in a left-right direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the left-right direction of the lamp may be improved, so that the road surface illumination function can be enhanced, for example.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle lamp including:

a projection lens including an output surface having a convex shape based on one circular arc;

a first light source arranged at a rear of the projection lens; and

a second light source arranged at the rear of the projection lens,

wherein the projection lens has a first back focal point and a second back focal point,

wherein the first light source is arranged at a position corresponding to the first back focal point, and

wherein the second light source is arranged at a position corresponding to the second back focal point.

According to the above configuration, since the output surface of the projection lens has a convex shape based on a single circular arc and the first light source and the second light source are arranged at the rear of the projection lens, it may be possible to keep an aesthetic quality of an outward appearance, when seeing the lamp from the front. Also, since the first light source is arranged at the position corresponding to the first back focal point and the second light source is arranged at the position corresponding to the second back focal point, it may be possible to illuminate the lights ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first light source and the second light source, as clear light distribution patterns, and to improve the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the first light source and the second light source may be arranged in an upper-lower direction.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to improve the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the upper-lower direction of the lamp while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size in the left-right direction.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the projection lens may include a first lens part configured to form the first back focal point and a second lens part configured to form the second back focal point,

the first lens part may be formed below the second lens part,

the first back focal point may be located above the second back focal point,

the first light source may be configured to emit light towards an incident surface of the first lens part, and

the second light source may be configured to emit light towards an incident surface of the second lens part.

According to the above configuration, after the light to be emitted from the first light source towards the incident surface of the projection lens and the light to be emitted from the second light source towards the incident surface of the projection lens are enabled to intersect with each other in the upper-lower direction, the lights are illuminated ahead of the lamp from the projection lens, so that the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns may be improved.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the first light source and the second light source may be arranged in a left-right direction.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to improve the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the left-right direction of the lamp while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size in the upper-lower direction.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the projection lens may include a first lens part configured to form the first back focal point and a second lens part configured to form the second back focal point,

the first lens part may be formed at a left side relative to the second lens part,

the first back focal point is located at a right side relative to the second back focal point,

the first light source may be configured to emit light towards an incident surface of the first lens part, and

the second light source may be configured to emit light towards an incident surface of the second lens part.

According to the above configuration, after the light to be emitted from the first light source towards the incident surface of the projection lens and the light to be emitted from the second light source towards the incident surface of the projection lens are enabled to intersect with each other in the left-right direction, the lights are illuminated ahead of the lamp from the projection lens, so that the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns may be improved.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the projection lens may include a first lens part configured to form the first back focal point and a second lens part configured to form the second back focal point, and the vehicle lamp may further include:

a first reflection part configured to reflect the light emitted from the first light source towards an incident surface of the first lens part; and

a second reflection part configured to reflect the light emitted from the second light source towards an incident surface of the second lens part.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to illuminate the lights ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first light source and the second light source, as clearer light distribution patterns.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the first light source may be a first array light source including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row,

the second light source may be a second array light source including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row, and

a center position of the first array light source may be arranged at a position different from a center position of the second array light source in a left-right direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to improve the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the left-right direction of the lamp.

The above vehicle lamp may further include:

a base member; and

a rigid circuit board, on which the first array light source and the second array light source are mounted,

wherein the rigid circuit board may be mounted to the base member.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to easily arrange the first array light source and the second array light source at predetermined positions of the base member.

The above vehicle lamp may further include:

a base member, and

a flexible circuit board, on which the first array light source and the second array light source are arranged,

wherein at least a part of the flexible circuit board may be fixed to the base member.

According to the above configuration, the operability may be improved upon the mounting of the first array light source and the second array light source to the base member.

According to a further illustrative embodiment, there is provided a vehicle lamp including:

a first light source configured to emit light for forming a light distribution pattern for low beam;

a first array light source including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row; and

a second array light source including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row,

wherein the first array light source is configured to emit light for forming at least a part of an additional light distribution pattern for high beam, and

wherein the second array light source is configured to emit light for forming an additional light distribution pattern that is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam on a vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to widen a width within which the light emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated to the road surface and to illuminate the light to a distant position by the light that is to form the additional light distribution pattern, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source may be configured to be individually lit on and off,

the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements of the second array light source may be configured to be individually lit on and off, and

in light distribution patterns to be projected on a vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp, a light distribution pattern which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source and a light distribution pattern which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the second array light source may be offset in a left-right direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, the light distribution pattern, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source, and the light distribution pattern, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the second array light source, are offset in the left-right direction of the lamp. For this reason, it may be possible to increase the number of divisions in the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source and the second array light source, and to improve the resolutions thereof, so that it may be possible to form a variety of light distribution patterns, depending on utilities or situations.

In the above vehicle lamp,

a center position of the first array light source may be arranged at a position different from a center position of the second array light source in a left-right direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to widen a region of the road surface in the left-right direction of the lamp, to which the light is to be illuminated, and to increase the number of divisions of the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source and the second array light source.

The above vehicle lamp may further include:

a projection lens,

wherein the first array light source may be arranged at a rear of the projection lens, and

wherein respective arrangement pitches of the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source in a left-right direction of the lamp may be smaller towards a back focal point of the projection lens.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to increase a using efficiency of the light to be emitted from the first array light source while widening the width in which the light emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated to the road surface, so that it is possible to illuminate the light to a distant position.

According to a further illustrative embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle lamp including:

a projection lens having a plurality of focal points;

a first array light source arranged at a rear of the projection lens and including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row; and

a second array light source arranged at the rear of the projection lens and including a plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements aligned in at least one row,

wherein the first array light source and the second array light source are arranged in an upper-lower direction,

wherein the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source are configured to be individually lit on and off,

wherein the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements of the second array light source are configured to be individually lit on and off, and

wherein in light distribution patterns to be projected on a vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp, a light distribution pattern which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source and a light distribution pattern which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the second array light source are offset in a left-right direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, the vehicle lamp includes the first array light source and the second array light source, and the first array light source and the second array light source are arranged in the upper-lower direction. For this reason, it is possible to mount more semiconductor light emitting elements to the lamp without increasing a width of the lamp in the left-right direction. Also, the light distribution pattern, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the first array light source, and the light distribution pattern, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements of the second array light source, are offset in the left-right direction of the lamp. For this reason, it may be possible to increase the number of divisions in the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source and the second array light source, and to improve the resolutions thereof, so that it may be possible to form a variety of light distribution patterns, depending on utilities or situations.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the projection lens may have a first back focal point and a second back focal point,

the first array light source may be arranged at a position corresponding to the first back focal point, and

the second array light source may be arranged at a position corresponding to the second back focal point.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to illuminate the lights ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first array light source and the second array light source, as clear light distribution patterns, respectively.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the projection lens may include a first lens part configured to form the first back focal point and a second lens part configured to form the second back focal point, and

a convex portion protruding towards a rear of the lamp may be formed at a boundary part between an incident surface of the first lens part and an incident surface of the second lens part.

According to the above configuration, since focal areas that are to be formed by the convex portion are dispersed, the lights that are to pass through the convex portion and are to be illuminated ahead of the lamp diffuse, so that a boundary between an illumination area and a non-illumination area to be formed ahead of the lamp may be made blurry.

In the above vehicle lamp, the projection lens may include a first lens part configured to form the first back focal point and a second lens part configured to form the second back focal point, and the vehicle lamp may further include:

a first reflection part configured to reflect the light emitted from the first array light source towards an incident surface of the first lens part; and

a second reflection part configured to reflect the light emitted from the second array light source towards an incident surface of the second lens part.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to illuminate the lights ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first light source and the second light source, as the clearer light distribution patterns, respectively.

The above vehicle lamp may further include:

a base member, on which the first array light source and the second array light source mounted; and

an optical member which is a component separate from the base member and is formed with a first opening through which the first array light source is to be exposed ahead of the lamp and a second opening through which the second array light source is to be exposed ahead of the lamp at a state where the optical member is mounted to the base member,

wherein the optical member may include the first reflection part and the second reflection part.

According to the above configuration, the optical member is mounted to the base member, so that it may be possible to illuminate the lights ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first light source and the second light source, as the clearer light distribution patterns, respectively.

In the above vehicle lamp,

a light output part of each semiconductor light emitting element of the first array light source may be configured to face towards a direction different from a light output part of each semiconductor light emitting element of the second array light source in an upper-lower direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to easily form the light distribution pattern by using each array light source, depending on the utilities or situations.

The above vehicle lamp may further include:

a base member; and

a flexible circuit board, on which the first array light source and the second array light source are mounted,

wherein a light output surface of each semiconductor light emitting element of the first array light source may face towards a direction different from a light output surface of each semiconductor light emitting element of the second array light source in an upper-lower direction of the lamp at a state where the flexible circuit board is mounted to the base member.

According to the above configuration, the flexible circuit board is used, so that the restraint may be reduced when arranging each array light source at a predetermined posture. Therefore, the degree of design freedom of the light distribution pattern, which is configured by each array light source, may be improved.

The above vehicle lamp may further include:

a base member; and

a rigid circuit board, on which the first array light source and the second array light source mounted,

wherein the rigid circuit board may be mounted to the base member.

According to the above configuration, it may be possible to easily arrange the first array light source and the second array light source at predetermined positions of the base member.

In the above vehicle lamp,

the projection lens may include a first lens part configured to form the first back focal point and a second lens part configured to form the second back focal point,

the first lens part may be formed below the second lens part,

the first array light source may be arranged above the second array light source,

the first array light source may be configured to emit light towards an incident surface of the first lens part, and

the second array light source may be configured to emit light towards an incident surface of the second lens part.

According to the above configuration, after the light to be emitted from the first light source towards the incident surface of the projection lens and the light to be emitted from the second light source towards the incident surface of the projection lens are enabled to intersect with each other in the upper-lower direction, the lights may be illuminated ahead of the lamp from the projection lens.

In the above vehicle lamp,

a center position of the first array light source may be arranged at a position different from a center position of the second array light source in the left-right direction of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the left-right direction of the lamp may be improved, so that the road surface illumination function may be enhanced, for example.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, it may be possible to provide the vehicle lamp capable of improving the degree of design freedom of the light distribution pattern that is to be added to the predetermined light distribution pattern, while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size.

Also, according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, it may be possible to provide the vehicle lamp capable of improving the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns while keeping the aesthetic quality of the lamp.

Also, according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, it may be possible to provide the vehicle lamp capable of enhancing the road surface illumination function.

Also, according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, it may be possible to provide the vehicle lamp capable of forming a variety of light distribution patterns while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, illustrative embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

As shown inFIG. 1, a vehicle lamp10of the illustrative embodiment configures a headlight1of a vehicle. The headlight1is provided at left and right sides of a front part of the vehicle. Meanwhile, inFIG. 1, only the left headlight1of the vehicle is shown. In the illustrative embodiment, each headlight1is a monocular headlight having one vehicle lamp10. The vehicle lamp10is provided in a lamp body (not shown). A transparent cover2is mounted in front of the lamp body. The transparent cover2is mounted to the lamp body to form a lamp chamber, and the vehicle lamp10is arranged in the lamp chamber.

As shown inFIGS. 2A to 4, the vehicle lamp10includes a fixing ring11, a projection lens12, a lens holder13, a light source for low beam14, a reflector15, a first array light source16, a second array light source17, an optical member18, a base member19, a fixing member20and a fan21.

The vehicle lamp10is a headlamp capable of selectively performing low beam illumination and high beam illumination and is configured as a projector-type lamp unit, for example.

The projection lens12has, on a front surface thereof, an output surface30having a convex shape based on a single circular arc. The projection lens12has a circular shape, as seen from the front of the lamp. The projection lens12has a first lens part31configured to form a first back focal point F1and a second lens part32configured to form a second back focal point F2. The projection lens12has a configuration where the first lens part31has a first incident surface31aat an opposite side to the output surface30and the second lens part32has a second incident surface32aat an opposite side to the output surface30.

The projection lens12is configured to form the first back focal point F1on an optical axis of the first incident surface31aof the first lens part31and to form the second back focal point F2on an optical axis of the second incident surface32aof the second lens part32. The projection lens12is configured to project light source images, which are to be formed on respective focal surfaces including the first back focal point F1and the second back focal point F2, on a vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp, as reverted images. The first back focal point F1and the second back focal point F2are arranged in an upper-lower direction so that the first back focal point F1is positioned above the second back focal point F2. That is, the projection lens12is a multifocal lens having the two back focal points F1, F2.

The projection lens12is arranged at a front part of the lens holder13having a cylindrical shape. The fixing ring11is fixed to the lens holder13from the front. The projection lens12is held at an outer peripheral flange portion12aby the lens holder13and the fixing ring11, so that it is supported to the front part of the lens holder13. The lens holder13configured to support the projection lens12is fixed to the base member19. Thereby, the projection lens12is supported to the base member19via the lens holder13.

The base member19is formed of a metal material having excellent thermal conductivity such as aluminum, for example. The base member19has an upper wall part19ahaving a horizontal plane shape and an inclined wall part19bextending obliquely in a lower and front direction from a front end of the upper wall part19a. On the upper wall part19a, a plurality of heat radiation fins19cextending downwards from a lower surface of the upper wall part is arranged side by side in a front-rear direction. The fan21is arranged below the base member19. The wind generated from the fan21is sent to the heat radiation fins19cextending downwards, from below.

The base member19has a configuration where an upper surface of the upper wall part19ais a first surface41and a front surface of the inclined wall part19bis a second surface42. In the base member19, a light source for low beam14is arranged on the first surface41, and a first array light source16and a second array light source17are arranged on the second surface42.

The light source for low beam14has a white light emitting diode, and an upper surface thereof is configured as a light emitting surface. The light source for low beam14is arranged at the rear of the projection lens12and is configured to emit light for forming a light distribution pattern for low beam, in the illustrative embodiment. The light source for low beam14is fixed to the first surface41of the upper wall part19aof the base member19via an attachment14a.

The reflector15is fixed to the first surface41of the upper wall part19aof the base member19so as to cover the light source for low beam14from above. The reflector15has an inner surface configured as a reflective surface15a, and the reflective surface15ais configured to reflect the light emitted from the light source for low beam14towards the projection lens12. The reflective surface15ais configured as a curved surface having a substantially elliptical shape of which a focal point is a center of light emission of the light source for low beam14, and eccentricity thereof is set to gradually increase from a vertical section towards a horizontal section.

As shown inFIGS. 5, 6A and 6B, the first array light source16has a plurality of (eleven, in the illustrative embodiment) semiconductor light emitting elements51and a circuit board52. The first array light source16is arranged at the rear of the projection lens12. The semiconductor light emitting elements51are arranged in one row in the left-right direction. On the other hand, the semiconductor light emitting elements51may also be arranged in two or more rows. The semiconductor light emitting element51is configured by a white light emitting diode, for example, and has a light output part configured by a light emitting surface having a square shape, for example. Also, in the first array light source16, respective arrangement pitches of the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements51in the left-right direction of the lamp are smaller towards the first back focal point F1of the projection lens12.

The semiconductor light emitting elements51are mounted on the circuit board52. The circuit board52is provided with a connector53. The connector53is arranged at a right side of the circuit board52, as seen from front. The connector53is connected with the other party connector (not shown) provided at a power feeding line, and power is fed from the power feeding line to the semiconductor light emitting elements51. The plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16is configured to be individually lit on and off.

The circuit board52having the semiconductor light emitting elements51mounted thereon is supported on the second surface42, which is the front surface of the inclined wall part19bof the base member19. The first array light source16is arranged at a position corresponding to the first back focal point F1of the projection lens12. In the meantime, the position corresponding to the first back focal point F1is not limited to a position that completely coincides with the first back focal point F1, and indicates a position including the first back focal point F1, which is to be projected as a reverted image on the vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp by the projection lens12, and a surrounding of the first back focal point.

The first array light source16is arranged so that the light output parts configured by the light emitting surfaces of the semiconductor light emitting elements51are to face obliquely in a front and upper direction by mounting the circuit board52on the inclined second surface42. Also, the first array light source16is arranged so that the light output parts of the semiconductor light emitting elements51are located below the first back focal point F1. That is, the second surface42of the base member19is configured as an inclined surface inclined relative to the optical axis of the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12so that the light output part of the first array light source16is located below the first back focal point F1. Also, the first array light source16is arranged between the first back focal point F1of the projection lens12and the light source for low beam14in the front-rear direction of the lamp (refer toFIG. 4and the like).

The second array light source17has a plurality of (eleven, in the illustrative embodiment) semiconductor light emitting elements55and a circuit board56. The second array light source17is arranged at the rear of the projection lens12. The semiconductor light emitting elements55are arranged in one row in the left-right direction. On the other hand, the semiconductor light emitting elements55may also be arranged in two or more rows. The semiconductor light emitting element55is configured by a white light emitting diode, for example, and has a light output part configured by a light emitting surface having a square shape, for example.

The semiconductor light emitting elements55are mounted on the circuit board56. The circuit board56is provided with a connector57. The connector57is arranged at a left side of the circuit board56, as seen from front. The connector57is connected with the other party connector (not shown) provided at a power feeding line, and power is fed from the power feeding line to the semiconductor light emitting elements55. The plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17is configured to be individually lit on and off.

The circuit board56having the semiconductor light emitting elements55mounted thereon is supported on the second surface42, which is the front surface of the inclined wall part19bof the base member19, via the fixing member20. The fixing member20has a tapered shape so that a thickness thereof gradually decreases towards the upper. The second array light source17supported on the second surface42of the base member19via the fixing member20is arranged at a position corresponding to the second back focal point F2of the projection lens12. In the meantime, the position corresponding to the second back focal point F2is not limited to a position that completely coincides with the second back focal point F2, and indicates a position including the second back focal point F2, which is to be projected as a reverted image on the vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp by the projection lens12, and a surrounding of the second back focal point.

The first array light source16and the second array light source17are arranged in the upper-lower direction. Specifically, the first array light source16is arranged above the second array light source17. Also, the second array light source17is fixed to the second surface42of the base member19via the fixing member20of which a thickness gradually decreases towards the upper, so that it is inclined more sharply than the first array light source16. Thereby, the light output part configured by the light emitting surface of each semiconductor light emitting element55of the second array light source17faces more upwards than the light output part configured by the light emitting surface of each semiconductor light emitting element51of the first array light source16. That is, the light output part of each semiconductor light emitting element51of the first array light source16is configured to face towards a direction different from the light output part of each semiconductor light emitting element55of the second array light source17, in the upper-lower direction of the lamp.

A center position of the first array light source16is arranged at a right side of a center position of the lamp, as seen from front, and a center position of the second array light source17is arranged at a left side of the center position of the lamp, as seen from front. Thereby, the center position of the first array light source16is arranged at a position different from the center position of the second array light source17in the left-right direction of the lamp.

The optical member18is a separate component from the base member19having the first array light source16and the second array light source17mounted thereon, and is mounted at a front side of the first array light source16and the second array light source17supported to the base member19. The optical member18is formed of aluminum die-cast or polycarbonate resin having excellent heat resistance, for example.

The optical member18is formed with a first opening61and a second opening62. The first opening61and the second opening62are formed in a width direction of the optical member18. At a state where the optical member18is supported to the base member19, the first opening61is arranged at a position corresponding to the first array light source16and the second opening62is arranged at a position corresponding to the second array light source17. Thereby, the first array light source16is exposed ahead of the lamp through the first opening61of the optical member18, and the second array light source17is exposed ahead of the lamp through the second opening62of the optical member18.

The optical member18has a vertical wall surface, which forms a vertical edge portion of the first opening61and is configured as a first reflective surface65. The first reflective surface65is configured to reflect the light emitted from the first array light source16towards the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12. Also, the optical member18has a vertical wall surface, which forms a vertical edge portion of the second opening62and is configured as a second reflective surface66. The second reflective surface66is configured to reflect the light emitted from the second array light source17towards the second incident surface32aof the projection lens12. The first reflective surface65and the second reflective surface66have been mirror-finished by aluminum vapor deposition or the like.

The optical member18has a shade part68at an upper part thereof. The shade part68functions as a shade configured to shade a part of the light from the light source for low beam14reflected on the reflective surface15aof the reflector15and to thereby form a cutoff line of the light distribution pattern for low beam. An upper surface of the shade part68forms a reflective surface69configured to reflect upwards a part of the light from the light source for low beam14reflected on the reflective surface15aof the reflector15. The reflective surface69is formed to be slightly inclined in a front and lower direction with respect to a horizontal plane, and is configured to enable the reflected light to be incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12. The reflective surface69has been mirror-finished by aluminum vapor deposition or the like.

As shown inFIG. 7, the light L emitted from the light source for low beam14is reflected on the reflective surface15aof the reflector15and is then incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12. Also, a part of the light L reflected on the reflective surface15aof the reflector15is reflected on the reflective surface69of the optical member18and is then incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12. In the meantime, a part of the light L reflected on the reflective surface15aof the reflector15passes by the first back focal point F1.

As shown inFIG. 8, the light LA1emitted from the first array light source16is directly incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12or is reflected on the first reflective surface65of the optical member18and is then incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12. The light LA2emitted from the second array light source17is directly incident on the second incident surface32aof the projection lens12or is reflected on the second reflective surface66of the optical member18and is then incident on the second incident surface32aof the projection lens12.

FIG. 9depicts a light distribution pattern projected on a virtual screen provided in a vertical direction at25mahead of the lamp. As shown inFIG. 9, the light L emitted from the light source for low beam14and incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12is emitted from the output surface30and forms a light distribution pattern for low beam PL. The light distribution pattern for low beam PL is formed with a cutoff line CL by the shade part68.

The light LA1emitted from the first array light source16and incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12is emitted from the output surface30and forms an additional light distribution pattern P1. The additional light distribution pattern P1is a light distribution pattern in which light distribution patterns P1aof the respective semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16are aligned in one row in a horizontal direction. Herein, since the respective arrangement pitches of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16in the left-right direction of the lamp are smaller towards the first back focal point F1of the projection lens12, a central part of the additional light distribution pattern P1has higher illuminance, so that the light is illuminated to a distant position.

The light LA2emitted from the second array light source17and incident on the second incident surface32aof the projection lens12is emitted from the output surface30and forms an additional light distribution pattern P2. The additional light distribution pattern P2is a light distribution pattern in which light distribution patterns P2aof the respective semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17are aligned in one row in the horizontal direction.

The additional light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the light LA1from the first array light source16, is a light distribution pattern for high beam. The additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to be formed by the light LA2from the second array light source17, overlaps with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL, which is to be formed by the light L from the light source for low beam14, and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1, which is to be formed by the light LA1from the first array light source16, on the vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp.

Here, in a space between the light distribution pattern for low beam PL of which the cutoff line is to be formed by the shade part68of the optical member18and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1, it is difficult to make the light overlap and the light may not overlap in some cases, so that an amount of light may be reduced.

On the contrary, according to the vehicle lamp10of the illustrative embodiment, at a state where the light distribution pattern for low beam PL is formed and the additional light distribution pattern P1, which is a light distribution pattern for high beam, is also formed, the additional light distribution pattern P2is formed between the light distribution pattern for low beam PL and the additional light distribution pattern P1, in which the amount of light is reduced. Thereby, the space between the light distribution pattern for low beam PL and the additional light distribution pattern P1, in which the amount of light is reduced, is compensated by the additional light distribution pattern P2.

Also, regarding the light distribution patterns to be projected on the vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp, the additional light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the light LA1emitted from each semiconductor light emitting element51of the first array light source16, and the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to be formed by the light LA2emitted from each semiconductor light emitting element55of the second array light source17, are offset in the left-right direction.

Specifically, the additional light distribution pattern P1that is to be formed by the first array light source16is formed at the right of center and the additional light distribution pattern P2that is to be formed by the second array light source17is formed at the left of center. In the meantime, herein, the term “offset” indicates a meaning including a configuration where the light distribution patterns P1aand the light distribution patterns P2aare to be arranged to partially overlap with each other in the left-right direction and a configuration where the light distribution patterns P1aand the light distribution patterns P2aare to be alternately arranged without overlapping with each other in the left-right direction.

Thereby, as shown inFIG. 10, as compared to a road surface illumination region AS by a general vehicle lamp, according to the illustrative embodiment, the amount of light is compensated by the additional light distribution pattern P2and the additional light distribution pattern P1and the additional light distribution pattern P2are offset in the left-right direction, so that a road surface illumination region AL enlarged in the front direction (an arrow A direction inFIG. 10) and the left-right direction (an arrow B direction inFIG. 10) is formed.

Also, since the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16and the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17are configured to be individually lit on and off, respectively, it is possible to form light distribution patterns in conformity to diverse situations. For example, in order for the light not to direct to an oncoming vehicle detected by an in-vehicle camera, the additional light distribution pattern P1is formed by lighting off some of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16configured to illuminate a position of the oncoming vehicle, so that it is possible to widely illuminate a traveling road ahead of the vehicle within a range in which a glare is not to be caused to a driver of the oncoming vehicle. Also, the additional light distribution pattern P2is formed by lighting off some of the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17configured to illuminate the position of the oncoming vehicle, so that it is possible to widely illuminate the traveling road ahead of the vehicle within the range in which a glare is not to be caused to the driver of the oncoming vehicle.

As described above, the vehicle lamp10of the illustrative embodiment includes the light source for low beam (an example of the first light source)14, the first array light source16and the second array light source17, and the first array light source16and the second array light source17are arranged in the upper-lower direction. For this reason, it is possible to mount many light emitting elements to the lamp without increasing a width of the lamp in the left-right direction. Also, as compared to a lamp having one array light source, since it is possible to mount more light emitting elements, a degree of design freedom of the light distribution pattern that is to be added to the light distribution pattern for low beam PL is improved, for example.

Also, it is possible to illuminate the lights LA1, LA2ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first array light source16and the second array light source17, as clearer light distribution patterns, respectively, while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size.

Also, it is possible to use the light LA1to be emitted from the first array light source16, as light for strengthening the road surface illumination function.

Also, the light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16, and the light distribution pattern P2, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17, are offset in the left-right direction of the lamp. For this reason, it is possible to increase the number of divisions in the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source16and the second array light source17, and to improve the resolutions thereof, so that it is possible to form a variety of light distribution patterns, depending on utilities or situations.

Further, the light distribution pattern, which is to be formed by the light LA2to be emitted from the second array light source17, is configured to overlap with the additional light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the light LA1to be emitted from the first array light source16, so that it is possible to effectively utilize a part of the light LA2to be emitted from the second array light source17, as the light distribution pattern for high beam.

Also, since the first array light source16is arranged between the first back focal point F1of the projection lens12and the light source for low beam14in the front-rear direction of the lamp, it is possible to illuminate the light LA1emitted from the first array light source16ahead of the lamp through the vicinity of the first back focal point F1while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size in the front-rear direction

In the meantime, if a part functioning as the shade configured to form the cutoff line CL of the light distribution pattern for low beam PL is formed at a tip end of the base member19, the tip end has a predetermined thickness due to restraints of processing conditions of the base member19. Since the tip end cannot reflect forward the light, it becomes a cause of a dark part.

In contrast, according to the illustrative embodiment, the optical member18separately provided from the base member19is provided with the shade part68configured to form the cutoff line CL of the light distribution pattern for low beam PL with being mounted to the base member19. Since the optical member18having the shade part68is a component separate from the base member19, it is possible to thinly form the tip end without being restrained to the processing conditions of the base member19. For this reason, it is possible to reduce the thickness of the tip end becoming a cause of a dark part, so that it is possible to suppress the dark part to such a level that a driver cannot notice the same.

Also, since the optical member18has the first reflective surface65configured to reflect the light LA1emitted from the first array light source16towards the first incident surface31aof the projection lens1and the second reflective surface66configured to reflect the light LA2emitted from the second array light source17towards the second incident surface32aof the projection lens12, it is possible to further effectively use the lights LA1, LA2to be emitted from the first array light source16and the second array light source17.

Also, the second surface42of the base member19is configured as the inclined surface inclined relative to the optical axis of the projection lens12so that the light output parts of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16arranged on the second surface42are to obliquely face in the front and upper direction and the light output parts of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16are to be located below the first back focal point F1. Therefore, it is possible to enable most of the light to be emitted from the first array light source16to pass by the first back focal point F1while arranging the first array light source16at a position avoiding a light path for forming the light distribution pattern for low beam PL. For this reason, it is possible to effectively use the light LA1of the first array light source16.

Also, since the center position of the first array light source16is arranged at a position different from the center position of the second array light source17in the left-right direction of the lamp, the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the left-right direction of the lamp is improved, so that the road surface illumination function can be strengthened, for example.

Further, since the first array light source16and the second array light source17are aligned in the two stages in the upper-lower direction, it is possible to reduce a distance between the light emitting element and the back focal point of the projection lens as short as possible, as compared to a configuration where more light emitting elements are aligned in one stage in the left-right direction of the lamp, so that it is possible to increase the using efficiency of the light to be emitted from the light emitting elements.

In the meantime, it is possible to increase the resolutions of the light distribution patterns by increasing the numbers of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16and the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17to be aligned in the left-right direction and the number of stages thereof in the upper-lower direction.

Also, in the illustrative embodiment, the light source for low beam14has been exemplified as the light source of the projector-type optical system. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, it is sufficient that the light source is a light source of a projector-type optical system (a projection-type optical system using a reflector and a projection lens), and the light distribution patterns may be formed depending on the utilities. For example, a light source configured to form a light distribution pattern specified to the road surface illumination or a light source configured to form a light distribution pattern that is to be illuminated towards a specific target may be used.

According to the vehicle lamp10of the illustrative embodiment, the output surface30of the projection lens12is formed to have a convex shape based on one circular arc, and the first array light source16(an example of the first light source) and the second array light source17(an example of the second light source) are arranged at the rear of the projection lens12. Therefore, it is possible to keep an aesthetic quality of an outward appearance of the lamp, as seen from front. Also, since the first array light source16is arranged at the position corresponding to the first back focal point F1and the second array light source17is arranged at the position corresponding to the second back focal point F2, it is possible to illuminate the lights LA1, LA2ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first array light source16and the second array light source17, as clear light distribution patterns, and to improve the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns.

In particular, since the first array light source16and the second array light source17are arranged in the upper-lower direction, it is possible to improve the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the upper-lower direction of the lamp while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size in the left-right direction.

Also, since the lamp has the first reflective surface65configured to reflect the light LA1emitted from the first array light source16towards the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12and the second reflective surface66configured to reflect the light LA2emitted from the second array light source17towards the second incident surface32aof the projection lens12, it is possible to further effectively use the lights LA1, LA2to be emitted from the first array light source16and the second array light source17and to illuminate the lights ahead of the lamp, as the clearer light distribution patterns.

Also, since the center position of the first array light source16is arranged at a position different from the center position of the second array light source17in the left-right direction of the lamp, the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the left-right direction of the lamp is improved, so that the road surface illumination function can be strengthened, for example.

Further, since the first array light source16and the second array light source17are aligned in the two stages in the upper-lower direction, it is possible to reduce a distance between the light emitting element and the back focal point of the projection lens as short as possible, as compared to a configuration where more light emitting elements are aligned in one row in the left-right direction of the lamp, so that it is possible to increase the using efficiency of the lights to be emitted from the light emitting elements.

In the meantime, it is possible to increase the resolutions of the light distribution patterns by increasing the numbers of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16and the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17to be aligned in the left-right direction and the number of stages thereof in the upper-lower direction.

For example, as shown inFIG. 11, when the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16are aligned in two stages and respective light distribution patterns P1aof the semiconductor light emitting elements51in each stage are arranged in one row, it is possible to widely illuminate the light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the first array light source16, in the left-right direction while suppressing a width size of the lamp, and to improve the resolution thereof. Similarly, when the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17are aligned in two stages and respective light distribution patterns P2aof the semiconductor light emitting elements55in each stage are arranged in one row, it is possible to widely illuminate the light distribution pattern P2, which is to be formed by the second array light source17, in the left-right direction while suppressing a width size of the lamp, and to improve the resolution thereof.

Also, in the illustrative embodiment, the light source for low beam14has been exemplified as the light source of the projector-type optical system. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, it is sufficient that the light source is a light source of a projector-type optical system (a projection-type optical system using a reflector and a projection lens), and the light distribution patterns may be formed depending on the utilities. For example, a light source configured to form a light distribution pattern specified to the road surface illumination or a light source configured to form a light distribution pattern that is to be illuminated towards a specific target may be used.

According to the vehicle lamp10of the illustrative embodiment, the light source for low beam14(an example of the first light source) is configured to emit the light L for forming the light distribution pattern for low beam PL, the first array light source16is configured to emit the light LA1for forming the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1, and the second array light source17is configured to emit the light LA2for forming the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1on the vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp. Thereby, it is possible to widen a width of the road surface to which the light to be emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated and to illuminate the light to a distant position by the light LA2that is to be emitted from the second array light source17and to form the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL to be formed by the light L of the light source for low beam14and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1to be formed by the light LA1of the first array light source16.

Also, the light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16, and the light distribution pattern P2, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17, are offset in the left-right direction of the lamp. For this reason, it is possible to increase the number of divisions in the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source16and the second array light source17, and to improve the resolutions thereof, so that it is possible to form a variety of light distribution patterns, depending on utilities or situations.

Further, since the center position of the first array light source16is arranged at the position different from the center position of the second array light source17in the left-right direction of the lamp, it is possible to widen a width of the road surface in the left-right direction of the lamp, to which the light is to be illuminated, and to increase the number of divisions of the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source16and the second array light source17.

Also, since the respective arrangement pitches of the plurality of semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16in the left-right direction of the lamp are smaller towards the first back focal point F1of the projection lens12, it is possible to increase the using efficiency of the light to be emitted from the first array light source16while widening the width of the road surface to which the light emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated, so that the light can be illuminated to a distant position.

Further, since the first array light source16and the second array light source17are aligned in the two stages in the upper-lower direction, it is possible to reduce a distance between the light emitting element and the back focal point of the projection lens as short as possible, as compared to a configuration where more light emitting elements are aligned in one stage in the left-right direction of the lamp, so that it is possible to increase the using efficiency of the lights to be emitted from the light emitting elements.

In the meantime, it is possible to increase the resolutions of the light distribution patterns by increasing the numbers of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16and the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17to be aligned in the left-right direction and the number of stages thereof in the upper-lower direction.

For example, as shown inFIG. 11, when the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16are aligned in two stages and respective light distribution patterns P1aof the semiconductor light emitting elements51in each stage are arranged in one row, it is possible to widely illuminate the light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the first array light source16, in the left-right direction while suppressing a width size of the lamp, and to improve the resolution thereof. Similarly, when the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17are aligned in two stages and respective light distribution patterns P2aof the semiconductor light emitting elements55in each stage are arranged in one row, it is possible to widely illuminate the light distribution pattern P2, which is to be formed by the second array light source17, in the left-right direction while suppressing a width size of the lamp, and to improve the resolution thereof.

Also, the vehicle lamp10is not limited to the projector-type lamp and may be a parabola-type lamp configured to illuminate the light of the light source ahead of the vehicle by a reflector having a parabolic reflective surface, as seen from a section.

(Fourth Operational Effects) The vehicle lamp10of the illustrative embodiment includes the first array light source16and the second array light source17, and the first array light source16and the second array light source17are arranged in the upper-lower direction. For this reason, it is possible to mount many semiconductor light emitting elements51,55to the lamp without increasing the width of the lamp in the left-right direction. Also, the light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16, and the light distribution pattern P2, which is to be formed by the respective semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17, are offset in the left-right direction of the lamp. For this reason, it is possible to increase the number of divisions in the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source16and the second array light source17, and to improve the resolutions thereof, so that it is possible to form a variety of light distribution patterns, depending on utilities or situations.

Also, the projection lens12has the first back focal point F1and the second back focal point F2, the first array light source16is arranged at the position corresponding to the first back focal point F1, and the second array light source17is arranged at the position corresponding to the second back focal point F2. Therefore, it is possible to illuminate the lights LA1, LA2ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first array light source16and the second array light source17, as the clear light distribution patterns.

Also, the projection lens12has the first lens part31configured to form the first back focal point F1and the second lens part32configured to form the second back focal point F2, and the first reflective surface65configured to reflect the light LA1emitted from the first array light source16towards the incident surface31a(an example of the incident surface) of the first lens part31and the second reflective surface66configured to reflect the light LA2emitted from the second array light source17towards the incident surface32a(an example of the incident surface) of the second lens part32. Thereby, it is possible to illuminate the lights LA1, LA2ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first array light source16and the second array light source17, as the clearer light distribution patterns.

Further, the first reflective surface65and the second reflective surface66are provided at the optical member18, which is a component separate from the base member, and the optical member18has the first opening61through which the first array light source16is exposed ahead of the lamp and the second opening62through which the second array light source17is exposed ahead of the lamp at the state where the optical member is mounted to the base member19. Thereby, the optical member18is mounted to the base member19, so that it is possible to illuminate the lights LA1, LA2ahead of the lamp, which are to be emitted from the first array light source16and the second array light source17, as the clearer light distribution patterns.

Also, since the light output parts of the respective semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16are arranged to face towards the direction different from the light output parts of the respective semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17in the upper-lower direction of the lamp, it is possible to easily form the light distribution patterns by using the respective array light sources, depending on the utilities or situations.

Also, since the center position of the first array light source16is arranged at the position different from the center position of the second array light source17in the left-right direction of the lamp, the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the left-right direction of the lamp is improved, so that the road surface illumination function can be strengthened, for example.

Further, since the first array light source16and the second array light source17are aligned in the two stages in the upper-lower direction, it is possible to reduce the distance between the light emitting element and the back focal point of the projection lens as short as possible, as compared to a configuration where more light emitting elements are aligned in one row in the left-right direction of the lamp, so that it is possible to increase the using efficiency of the light emitting elements.

In the meantime, it is possible to increase the resolutions of the light distribution patterns by increasing the numbers of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16and the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17to be aligned in the left-right direction and the number of stages thereof in the upper-lower direction.

For example, as shown inFIG. 11, when the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16are aligned in two stages and respective light distribution patterns P1aof the semiconductor light emitting elements51in each stage are arranged in one row, it is possible to widely illuminate the light distribution pattern P1, which is to be formed by the first array light source16, in the left-right direction while suppressing a width size of the lamp, and to improve the resolution thereof. Similarly, when the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17are aligned in two stages and respective light distribution patterns P2aof the semiconductor light emitting elements55in each stage are arranged in one row, it is possible to widely illuminate the light distribution pattern P2, which is to be formed by the second array light source17, in the left-right direction while suppressing a width size of the lamp, and to improve the resolution thereof.

Also, in the illustrative embodiment, the light source for low beam14has been exemplified as the light source of the projector-type optical system. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, it is sufficient that the light source is a light source of a projector-type optical system (a projection-type optical system using a reflector and a projection lens), and the light distribution patterns may be formed depending on the utilities. For example, a light source configured to form a light distribution pattern specified to the road surface illumination or a light source configured to form a light distribution pattern that is to be illuminated towards a specific target may be used.

Subsequently, modified embodiments of the vehicle lamp10of the illustrative embodiment are described.

First Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 12, in a first modified embodiment, one rigid circuit board70is provided. The rigid circuit board70is a glass epoxy circuit board or a paper phenol circuit board, for example. The rigid circuit board70is fixed and mounted to the second surface42, which is the inclined surface of the base member19. The rigid circuit board70is mounted thereon with the first array light source16and the second array light source17at an interval in the upper-lower direction. The rigid circuit board70is provided at one side part with a connector71. The connector71is connected with a connector (not shown) of a power feeding line, and the power is fed from the power feeding line to the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16and the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to easily arrange the first array light source16and the second array light source17at predetermined positions of the base member19. Also, it is possible to suppress the relative positional deviation between the first array light source16and the second array light source17.

Second Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIGS. 13 and 14, in a second modified embodiment, one flexible circuit board80is provided. The flexible circuit board80is a circuit board of which a wiring pattern82made of a copper foil is formed on a highly flexible base81made of a plastic film such as polyimide. The flexible circuit board80is fixed and mounted to the second surface42, which is the inclined surface of the base member19. The flexible circuit board80is mounted thereon with the first array light source16and the second array light source17at an interval in the upper-lower direction. A pullout part83extends from one side part of the flexible circuit board80, and the pullout part83is provided with a connector84. The connector84is connected with a connector (not shown) of a power feeding line, and the power is fed from the power feeding line to the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16and the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17.

The flexible circuit board80is mounted to the second surface42having an inclined surface of the base member19, on which the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16and the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17are mounted at different angles. Thereby, at the state where the flexible circuit board80is mounted to the base member19, the light output parts, which are the light emitting surfaces of the respective semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16, are arranged to face towards a direction different from the light output parts, which are the light emitting surfaces of the respective semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17, in the upper-lower direction of the lamp.

In the meantime, preferably, the flexible circuit board80is provided with reinforcement plates85made of a metal plate such as aluminum at mounting parts of the semiconductor light emitting elements51of the first array light source16, the semiconductor light emitting elements55of the second array light source17and the connector84so as to improve the rigidness of the mounting parts of the components. By doing so, it is possible to easily fix the first array light source16, the second array light source17and the connector84to the base member19. Also, when fixing the flexible circuit board80to the base member19, a thermal conductive adhesive, an aluminum plate or the like may be interposed between the flexible circuit board80and the base member19. Thereby, it is possible to favorably transmit heats, which are to be generated from the first array light source16and the second array light source17, to the base member19. Also, the first array light source16and the second array light source17may be configured by directly mounting the semiconductor light emitting elements51,55to the flexible circuit board80or may be configured by mounting a circuit board having the semiconductor light emitting elements51,55mounted thereon to the flexible circuit board80.

According to the above configuration, since the flexible circuit board80can be arranged with being bent, the operability is improved when mounting the first array light source16and the second array light source17to the base member19. Also, the flexible circuit board80is used, so that the restraints are reduced when arranging the first array light source16and the second array light source17at predetermined postures. Therefore, the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns, which are configured by the first array light source16and the second array light source17, is improved. Further, the flexible circuit board80is used, so that it is possible to easily provide the pullout part83. Also, for example, it is possible to arrange the connector84at a position at which it does not interfere with the constitutional components of the lamp, such as the lens holder13, a positioning pin and the like, so that the degree of design freedom is improved.

Third Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 15, in a third modified embodiment, the lamp has a projection lens90of which a convex output surface is divided in the upper-lower direction. Specifically, the projection lens90has a first lens part91at an upper side and a second lens part92at a lower side, and the first lens part91and the second lens part92are integrally configured. The first lens part91has a first incident surface91aand a first output surface91b, and the second lens part92has a second incident surface92aand a second output surface92b.

In the third modified embodiment, the light L from the light source for low beam14and the light LA1from the first array light source16are incident on the first incident surface91aof the first lens part91and are emitted from the first output surface91b. Also, the light LA2from the second array light source17is incident on the second incident surface92aof the second lens part92and is emitted from the second output surface92b.

According to the above structure, it is possible to extend forward the light distribution patterns and to enlarge the same in the left-right direction while saving the cost.

Fourth Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 16, in a fourth modified embodiment, the lamp has a projection lens100and a sub-lens102. The projection lens100and the sub-lens102are unifocal lenses, respectively. The projection lens100has an incident surface101aand an output surface101b. Also, the sub-lens102has an incident surface103aand an output surface103b. The sub-lens102is arranged between the second array light source17and the projection lens100.

In the fourth modified embodiment, the light L from the light source for low beam14and the light LA1from the first array light source16are incident on the incident surface101aof the projection lens100and are emitted from the output surface101b. Also, the light LA2from the second array light source17is incident on the incident surface103aof the sub-lens102, is emitted from the output surface103b, is incident on the incident surface101aof the projection lens100and is then emitted from the output surface101b.

According to the above structure, since the projection lens100, which is seen from front, is the unifocal lens, it is possible to guide the light LA2from the second array light source17in a predetermined direction by the sub-lens102, to extend forward the light distribution patterns and to enlarge the same in the left-right direction while improving the appearance of the lamp, as seen from front.

Fifth Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 17, in a fifth modified embodiment, the second array light source17is supported to not the base member19but a bracket111arranged at a position different from the base member19, and is arranged above the first array light source16.

In the fifth modified embodiment, the light L from the light source for low beam14and the light LA1from the first array light source16are incident on the second incident surface32aof the projection lens12and are emitted from the output surface30. Also, the light LA2from the second array light source17is incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12and is emitted from the output surface30.

According to the above structure, it is possible to extend and enlarge the light distribution patterns while improving the appearance of the lamp, as seen from front.

Sixth Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 18, a lamp of a sixth modified embodiment includes a projection lens120, which is circular as seen from the front of the lamp and has an output surface121having a convex shape based on a single circular arc on a front surface. The projection lens120has a first lens part125configured to form a first back focal point F1and a second lens part126configured to form a second back focal point F2. The projection lens120is configured so that the first lens part125is formed below the second lens part126and the first back focal point F1is arranged above the second back focal point F2. That is, the projection lens120is a multifocal lens having the two back focal points F1, F2.

The light L emitted from the light source for low beam14is reflected on the reflective surface15aof the reflector15and is then incident on the first incident surface125aof the first lens part125. The first array light source16is configured to emit the light LA1towards a first incident surface125aof the first lens part125, and the second array light source17is configured to emit the light LA2towards a second incident surface126aof the second lens part126. Thereby, the lights L, LA1from the light source for low beam14and the first array light source16and the light LA2of the second array light source17intersect each other in the upper-lower direction. In the meantime, the present invention is not limited to the configuration where the first array light source16directly emits the light LA1towards the first incident surface125aof the first lens part125. For example, the first array light source16may be configured to indirectly emit the light LA1towards the first incident surface125aof the first lens part125by using an optical member such as a reflector, a lens or the like. Similarly, the present invention is not limited to the configuration where the second array light source17directly emits the light LA2towards the second incident surface126aof the second lens part126. For example, the second array light source17may be configured to indirectly emit the light LA2towards the second incident surface126aof the second lens part126by using an optical member such as a reflector, a lens or the like.

FIG. 19depicts a light distribution pattern projected on a virtual screen provided in the vertical direction at25mahead of the lamp. As shown inFIG. 19, the light L emitted from the light source for low beam14and incident on the first incident surface125aof the projection lens120is emitted from the output surface121and forms a light distribution pattern for low beam PL having a cutoff line CL.

The light LA1emitted from the first array light source16and incident on the first incident surface125aof the projection lens120is emitted from the output surface121and forms an additional light distribution pattern P1. Also, the light LA2emitted from the second array light source17and incident on the second incident surface126aof the projection lens120is emitted from the output surface121and forms an additional light distribution pattern P2.

The additional light distribution pattern P2formed by the light LA2from the second array light source17overlaps with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL formed by the light L from the light source for low beam14and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1formed by the light LA1from the first array light source16, on the vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp.

According to the above configuration, after the light LA1to be emitted from the first array light source16towards the first incident surface125aof the projection lens120and the light LA2to be emitted from the second array light source17towards the second incident surface126aof the projection lens120are enabled to intersect with each other in the upper-lower direction, the lights are illuminated ahead of the lamp from the projection lens120, so that the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns is improved.

Seventh Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 20, in a seventh modified embodiment, the first array light source16and the second array light source17are arranged at left and right sides. Specifically, the first array light source16is arranged at the right side and the second array light source17is arranged at the left side, as seen from the front of the lamp. Also, in the seventh modified embodiment, the lamp includes a projection lens130, which is circular as seen from the front of the lamp and has an output surface131having a convex shape based on a single circular arc on a front surface. The projection lens130has a first lens part135configured to form a first back focal point F1and a second lens part136configured to form a second back focal point F2. The first lens part135is formed at the left side relative to the second lens part136, as seen from the front of the lamp, and the first back focal point F1is arranged at the right side relative to the second back focal point F2, as seen from the front of the lamp. That is, the projection lens130is a multifocal lens having the two back focal points F1, F2.

The first array light source16is configured to emit the light LA1towards a first incident surface135aof the first lens part135, and the second array light source17is configured to emit the light LA2towards a second incident surface136aof the second lens part136. Thereby, the lights L, LA1from the light source for low beam14and the first array light source16and the light LA2from the second array light source17intersect each other in the left-right direction. In the meantime, the present invention is not limited to the configuration where the first array light source16directly emits the light LA1towards the first incident surface135aof the first lens part135. For example, the first array light source16may be configured to indirectly emit the light

LA1towards the first incident surface135aof the first lens part135by using an optical member such as a reflector, a lens or the like. Similarly, the present invention is not limited to the configuration where the second array light source17directly emits the light LA2towards the second incident surface136aof the second lens part136. For example, the second array light source17may be configured to indirectly emit the light

LA2towards the second incident surface136aof the second lens part136by using an optical member such as a reflector, a lens or the like.

The light LA1emitted from the first array light source16and incident on the first incident surface135aof the projection lens130is emitted from the output surface131and forms an additional light distribution pattern P1. Also, the light LA2emitted from the second array light source17and incident on the second incident surface136aof the projection lens130is emitted from the output surface131and forms an additional light distribution pattern P2.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to improve the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns in the left-right direction of the lamp while suppressing the lamp from increasing in size in the upper-lower direction.

Further, after the light LA1to be emitted from the first array light source16towards the first incident surface135aof the projection lens130and the light LA2to be emitted from the second array light source17towards the second incident surface136aof the projection lens120are enabled to intersect with each other in the left-right direction, the lights are illuminated ahead of the lamp from the projection lens130, so that the degree of design freedom of the light distribution patterns is further improved.

In the meantime, the light LA1to be emitted from the first array light source16and the light LA2to be emitted from the second array light source17are not necessarily required to intersect each other in the left-right direction. For example, the lights LA1, LA2to be emitted from the first array light source16and the second array light source17may be respectively incident on the first incident surface135aand the second incident surface136aof the projection lens130without enabling the same to intersect each other in the left-right direction by using the projection lens130of which the first lens part135is formed at the right side relative to the second lens part136, as seen from the front of the lamp, and the first back focal point F1is arranged at the right side relative to the second back focal point F2, as seen from the front of the lamp.

Eighth Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 21, a lamp of an eighth modified embodiment has a projection lens90of which a convex output surface is divided in the upper-lower direction. Specifically, the projection lens90has a first lens part91at an upper side and a second lens part92at a lower side, and the first lens part91and the second lens part92are integrally configured. The first lens part91has a first incident surface91aand a first output surface91b, and the second lens part92has a second incident surface92aand a second output surface92b.

According to the lamp of the eighth modified embodiment, the light L from the light source for low beam14and the light LA1from the first array light source16are incident on the first incident surface91aof the first lens part91and is emitted from the first output surface91b. Also, the light LA2from the second array light source17is incident on the second incident surface92aof the second lens part92and is emitted from the second output surface92b.

According to the above structure, it is possible to extend forward the light distribution patterns and to enlarge the same in the left-right direction while saving the cost.

Also, according to the above configuration, the light distribution pattern for low beam PL is formed by the light source for low beam14, the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1is formed by the first array light source16, and the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1, is formed by the second array light source17. Thereby, for example, it is possible to widen a width of the road surface to which the light to be emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated and to illuminate the light to a distant position.

Ninth Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 22, a lamp of a ninth modified embodiment has a projection lens100and a sub-lens102. The projection lens100and the sub-lens102are unifocal lenses, respectively. The projection lens100has an incident surface101aand an output surface101b. Also, the sub-lens102has an incident surface103aand an output surface103b. The sub-lens102is arranged between the second array light source17and the projection lens100.

In the lamp of the ninth modified embodiment, the light L from the light source for low beam14and the light LA1from the first array light source16are incident on the incident surface101aof the projection lens100and are emitted from the output surface101b. Also, the light LA2from the second array light source17is incident on the incident surface103aof the sub-lens102, is emitted from the output surface103b, is incident on the incident surface101aof the projection lens100and is then emitted from the output surface101b.

According to the above structure, since the projection lens100, which is seen from front, is the unifocal lens, it is possible to guide the light LA2from the second array light source17in a predetermined direction by the sub-lens102, to extend forward the light distribution patterns and to enlarge the same in the left-right direction while improving the appearance of the lamp, as seen from front.

Also, according to the above configuration, the light distribution pattern for low beam PL is formed by the light source for low beam14, the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1is formed by the first array light source16, and the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1, is formed by the second array light source17. Thereby, for example, it is possible to widen a width of the road surface to which the light to be emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated and to illuminate the light to a distant position.

Tenth Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 23, in a lamp of a tenth modified embodiment, the second array light source17is supported to not the base member19but the bracket111arranged at a position different from the base member19, and is arranged above the first array light source16.

In the lamp of the tenth modified embodiment, the light L from the light source for low beam14and the light LA1from the first array light source16are incident on the second incident surface32aof the projection lens12and are emitted from the output surface30. Also, the light LA2from the second array light source17is incident on the first incident surface31aof the projection lens12and is emitted from the output surface30.

According to the above structure, it is possible to extend and enlarge the light distribution patterns while improving the appearance of the lamp, as seen from front.

Also, according to the above configuration, the light distribution pattern for low beam PL is formed by the light source for low beam14, the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1is formed by the first array light source16, and the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1, is formed by the second array light source17. Thereby, for example, it is possible to widen a width of the road surface to which the light to be emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated and to illuminate the light to a distant position.

Eleventh Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 24, according to a lamp of an eleventh modified embodiment, a headlight1A is a multi-eye headlight having two vehicle lamps10A,10B. For example, one vehicle lamp10A is a lamp for low beam having the light source for low beam14and the other vehicle lamp10B is a lamp for high beam having the first array light source16and the second array light source17. The vehicle lamp10A is configured to emit the light L of the light source for low beam14for forming the light distribution pattern for low beam PL. Also, the vehicle lamp10B is configured to emit the light LA1of the first array light source16for forming the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1and to emit the light LA2of the second array light source17for forming the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL and the additional light distribution pattern P1on the vertical virtual screen ahead of the lamp.

According to the above structure, it is possible to widen a width of the road surface to which the light to be emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated and to illuminate the light to a distant position by the light LA2from the second array light source17for forming the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL to be formed by the light L of the light source for low beam14and the additional light distribution pattern P1to be formed by the light LA1of the first array light source16. Also, since each of the vehicle lamps10A,10B has less light sources, it is possible to simplify the structure.

Also, according to the above configuration, the light distribution pattern for low beam PL is formed by the light source for low beam14, the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1is formed by the first array light source16, and the additional light distribution pattern P2, which is to overlap with both the light distribution pattern for low beam PL and the additional light distribution pattern for high beam P1, is formed by the second array light source17. Thereby, for example, it is possible to widen a width of the road surface to which the light to be emitted from the lamp is to be illuminated and to illuminate the light to a distant position.

Twelfth Modified Embodiment

As shown inFIG. 25, in a lamp of a twelfth modified embodiment, a projection lens12A is formed integrally with a convex portion33. The convex portion33is formed at a boundary part between the first incident surface31aof the first lens part31configured to form the first back focal point F1and the second incident surface32aof the second lens part32configured to form the second back focal point F2. The convex portion33protrudes towards the rear of the lamp and is formed in the width direction, which is the left-right direction of the projection lens12.

According to the above configuration, since the focal areas to be formed by the convex portion33are dispersed, when the lights L, LA1, LA2from the light source for low beam14, the first array light source16and the second array light source17pass through the convex portion33, the lights that are to pass through the convex portion33and to be illuminated ahead of the lamp diffuse, so that a boundary between an illumination area and a non-illumination area to be formed ahead of the lamp can be made blurry.

In the meantime, the present invention is not limited to the illustrative embodiments and can be appropriately modified and improved.

In addition, the materials, shapes, sizes, numerical values, forms, the number, arrangement places and the like of the respective constitutional elements of the illustrative embodiments are arbitrary inasmuch as the present invention can be implemented, and are not particularly limited.