Vehicle lamp

Abstract

The present invention is characterized by a lens body in which a first lens unit configured to form a first light distribution pattern which includes a first cut-off line; and a second lens unit configured to form a second light distribution pattern which includes a second cut-off line, wherein the first lens unit forms the first light distribution pattern when light from a first light source which entered the first lens unit is emitted from the first lens unit, the second lens unit forms the second light distribution pattern when light from a second light source which entered the second lens unit is emitted from the second lens unit, and the first lens unit and the second lens unit are integrally molded.

Claims

1. A lens body, comprising: a first lens unit configured to form a first light distribution pattern which includes a first cut-off line; and a second lens unit configured to form a second light distribution pattern which includes a second cut-off line, wherein the first lens unit is a lens unit which is disposed in front of a first light source, and is configured as a lens unit which includes a rear end portion and a front end portion, and forms the first light distribution pattern which includes the first cut-off line when light from the first light source which entered the first lens unit is emitted from the front end portion of the first lens unit and is irradiated forward, the second lens unit is a lens unit which is disposed in front of a second light source, and is configured as a lens unit which includes a rear end portion and a front end portion, and forms the second light distribution pattern which includes the second cut-off line when light from the second light source which entered the second lens unit is emitted from the front end portion of the second lens unit and is irradiated forward, the first lens unit and the second lens unit are integrally molded so that the relative positional relationship between the first light distribution pattern and the second light distribution pattern becomes a predetermined positional relationship, the first light distribution pattern is a low beam light distribution pattern, an upper end edge of which includes the first cut-off line, and the second light distribution pattern is an Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) light distribution pattern which includes the second cut-off line, the second lens unit includes an upper reflection surface and a vertical reflection surface, which are disposed between the rear end portion and the front end portion thereof, the rear end portion of the second lens unit includes an entrance portion through which the light from the second light source enters the second lens unit, a tip portion of the upper reflection surface and a tip portion of the vertical reflection surface each include a shade, the entrance portion, the upper reflection surface, the vertical reflection surface, and the front end portion of the second lens unit constitute an optical system configured to form the ADB light distribution pattern which includes, on the lower edge and on one side edge thereof, the second cut-off line specified by the shade of the upper reflection surface and the shade of the vertical reflection surface, when light partially shielded by the shade of the upper reflection surface and the shade of the vertical reflection surface and light internally reflected by the upper reflection surface and the vertical reflection surface, out of the light from the second light source which entered the second lens unit through the entrance portion, are emitted from the front end portion of the second lens unit and are irradiated forward.

2. The lens body according to claim 1, wherein the first lens unit includes a lower reflection surface disposed between the rear end portion and the front end portion thereof, the rear end portion of the first lens unit includes an entrance surface, a tip portion of the lower reflection surface includes a shade, the entrance surface, the lower reflection surface and the front end portion of the first lens unit constitute an optical system configured to form the first light distribution pattern which includes, on the upper edge thereof, the first cut-off line specified by the shade of the lower reflection surface, when light partially shielded by the shade of the lower reflection surface, and light internally reflected by the lower reflection surface, out of the light from the first light source which entered the first lens unit through the entrance surface, are emitted from the front end portion of the first lens unit and are irradiated forward.

3. A vehicular lighting fixture comprising the lens body according to claim 2, the first light source, and the second light source.

4. The lens body according to claim 1, wherein the first lens unit includes a lower reflection surface disposed between the rear end portion and the front end portion thereof, the rear end portion of the first lens unit includes an entrance surface, a tip portion of the lower reflection surface includes a shade, the front end portion of the first lens unit includes an intermediate emission surface, an intermediate entrance surface disposed in front of the intermediate emission surface, and a final emission surface disposed in front of the intermediate entrance surface, the intermediate emission surface includes a first semi-cylindrical surface, the cylindrical axis of which extends in a vertical direction or in an approximately vertical direction, the final emission surface is configured as a second semi-cylindrical surface, the cylindrical axis of which extends in a horizontal direction, or a second semi-cylindrical surface to which a slant angle or a camber angle is given, and the entrance surface, the lower reflection surface, the first semi-cylindrical surface, the intermediate entrance surface and the final emission surface constitute an optical system configured to form the first light distribution pattern which includes, on the upper edge thereof, the first cut-off line specified by the shade of the lower reflection surface, when light partially shielded by the shade of the lower reflection surface and light internally reflected by the lower reflection surface, out of the light from the first light source which entered the first lens unit through the entrance surface, are emitted outside the first lens unit through the first semi-cylindrical surface, enter the first lens unit through the intermediate entrance surface, are emitted from the final emission surface and are irradiated forward.

5. A vehicular lighting fixture comprising the lens body according to claim 4, the first light source, and the second light source.

6. The lens body according to claim 1, wherein the first lens unit includes a first lower reflection surface disposed between the rear end portion and the front end portion thereof, the rear end portion of the first lens unit includes a first entrance surface, a tip portion of the first lower reflection surface includes a shade, the front end portion of the first lens unit includes an intermediate emission surface, an intermediate entrance surface disposed in front of the intermediate emission surface, and a final emission surface disposed in front of the intermediate entrance surface, the intermediate emission surface includes a first semi-cylindrical surface, the cylindrical axis of which extends in a vertical direction or in an approximately vertical direction, and a left-right pair of intermediate emission surfaces disposed on the left and right sides of the first semi-cylindrical surface, the final emission surface is configured as a second semi-cylindrical surface, the cylindrical axis of which extends in a horizontal direction, or a second semi-cylindrical surface to which a slant angle or a camber angle is given, the first entrance surface, the first lower reflection surface, the first semi-cylindrical surface, the intermediate entrance surface, and the final emission surface constitute a first optical system configured to form a first partial light distribution pattern which includes, on the upper edge, the first cut-off line specified by the shade of the first lower reflection surface, when light partially shielded by the shade of the first lower reflection surface and light internally reflected by the first lower reflection surface, out of the light from the first light source which entered the first lens unit through the first entrance surface, are emitted outside the first lens unit through the first semi-cylindrical surface, enter the first lens unit through the intermediate entrance surface, are emitted from the final emission surface and are irradiated forward, the first lens unit further includes a left-right pair of side surfaces disposed between the rear end portion and the front end portion thereof, the rear end portion of the first lens unit includes a left-right pair of entrance surfaces disposed on the left and right sides of the first entrance surface so as to surround a space between the first light source and the first entrance surface from the left and right sides, the first lens unit includes a left-right pair of second lower reflection surfaces disposed between the rear end portion of the first lens unit and the front end portion of the first lens unit, and on the left and right sides of the first lower reflection surface, a tip portion of the left-right pair of the second lower reflection surfaces includes a shade, the left-right pair of entrance surfaces, the left-right pair of side surfaces, the left-right pair of second lower reflection surfaces, the left-right pair of intermediate emission surfaces, the intermediate entrance surface and the final emission surface constitute a left-right pair of second optical systems configured to form a second partial light distribution pattern which includes, on the upper edge thereof, the first cut-off line specified by the shades of the left-right pair of second lower reflection surfaces, when light partially shielded by the shades of the left-right pair of second lower reflection surfaces and light internally reflected by the left-right pair of second lower reflection surfaces, out of the light from the first light source which entered the first lens unit through the left-right pair of entrance surfaces and are internally reflected by the left-right pair of side surfaces, are emitted outside the first lens unit through the left-right pair of intermediate emission surfaces, enter the first lens unit through the intermediate entrance surface, are emitted from the final emission surface and are irradiated forward.

7. The lens body according to claim 6, wherein the rear end portion of the first lens unit includes an upper entrance surface disposed above the first entrance surface so as to surround a space between the first light source and the first entrance surface from above.

8. A vehicular lighting fixture comprising the lens body according to claim 7, the first light source, and the second light source.

9. A vehicular lighting fixture comprising the lens body according to claim 6, the first light source, and the second light source.

10. A vehicular lighting fixture comprising the lens body according to claim 1, the first light source, and the second light source.

11. A vehicular lighting fixture comprising the lens body according to claim 1.

12. A lens body disposed in front of a light source, including a rear end portion and a front end portion, and configured to form an Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) light distribution pattern which includes a cut-off line when light from the light source which entered the lens body is emitted from the front end portion and is irradiated forward, lens body comprising: an upper reflection surface and a vertical reflection surface disposed between the rear end portion and the front end portion of the lens body, wherein the rear portion includes an entrance portion through which the light from the light source enters the lens body, a tip portion of the upper reflection surface and a tip portion of the vertical reflection surface each include a shade, and the entrance portion, the upper reflection surface, the vertical reflection surface and the front end portion constitute an optical system configured to form the ADB light distribution pattern which includes, on the lower edge and on one side edge thereof, the cut-off line specified by the shade of the upper reflection surface and the shade of the vertical reflection surface, when light partially shielded by the shade of the upper reflection surface and the shade of the vertical reflection surface and light internally reflected by the upper reflection surface and the vertical reflection surface, out of the light from the light source which entered the lens body through the entrance surface, are emitted through the front end portions and are irradiated forward.

13. A vehicular lighting fixture comprising the lens body according to claim 12, and the light source.

14. A vehicular lighting fixture comprising the lens body according to claim 12.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vehicular lamp fitting 10 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

(2) FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the lens body 12 when viewed from the front, FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the lens body 12 when viewed from the back.

(3) FIG. 3A is a top view, FIG. 3B is a bottom view, and FIG. 3C is a side view of the lens body 12.

(4) FIG. 4A is a diagram depicting a state when the light from the light source 14 (to be more precise, the reference point F) enters the entry surface 12a, and FIG. 4B is a diagram depicting a state when the light from the light source 14, which entered the lens body 12 (direct light RayA), is condensed.

(5) FIG. 5 is an example of the entry surface 12a (cross-sectional view).

(6) FIG. 6 is another example of the entry surface 12a (cross-sectional view).

(7) FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are diagrams depicting the distance between the entry surface 12a and the light source 14.

(8) FIG. 8 is a diagram depicting functions of the shade 12c.

(9) FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram depicting the shade 12c when viewed from the light source 14 position, FIG. 9B is an enlarged perspective view of the reflection surface 12b (including the shade 12c) illustrated in FIG. 2A, and FIG. 9C is a top view of the reflection surface 12b (including the shade 12c) illustrated in FIG. 2A.

(10) FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C illustrate modifications (side views) of the shade 12c.

(11) FIG. 11A illustrates the low beam light distribution pattern P1 on virtual vertical screen which faces the front face of the vehicle (disposed at about 25 m in front of the front face of the vehicle), FIG. 11B illustrates a low beam light distribution pattern P2, FIG. 11C illustrates a low beam light distribution pattern P3.

(12) FIG. 12 is a diagram depicting the light source images formed by the light from the light source 14 on each cross-section Cs1 to Cs4.

(13) FIG. 13A is a view illustrating how the reflected light Ray B reflected internally by the reflecting surface 12 b advances in a direction in which the reflected light Ray B does not enter the emitting surface 12 d when the reflecting surface 12 b is arranged in the horizontal direction.

(14) FIG. 13B is a view depicting how the reflected light Ray B, which is internally reflected by the reflecting surface 12 b, travels in a direction in which it is incident on the exit surface 12 d when the reflecting surface 12 b is disposed so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX 1 is there.

(15) FIG. 14A is a view depicting how the reflected light RayB traveling in a direction that does not enter the outgoing surface 12 d can be captured by extending the reflecting surface 12 b upward when the reflecting surface 12 b is arranged in the horizontal direction is there.

(16) FIG. 14B is a view illustrating a manner in which more light (reflected light RayB internally reflected by the reflecting surface 12 b) can be captured without extending the reflecting surface 12 b upward, in the case where the reflecting surface 12 b is tilted with respect to the first reference axis AX 1.

(17) FIG. 15A illustrates most of the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 is shielded by the shade 12c, in the case of disposing the second reference axis AX2 in the horizontal direction and condensing the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 at least with respect to the vertical direction.

(18) FIG. 15B illustrates the light captured in the exit surface 12d (reflected light RayB internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b) increases, in the case of disposing the second reference axis AX2 so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 and condensing the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 at least with respect to the vertical direction.

(19) FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the vehicular lamp fitting 10A according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention/

(20) FIG. 17A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view thereof, and FIG. 17B is a diagram depicting the state of the light from the light source 14 that travels inside a lens body 12A.

(21) FIG. 18 is a top view depicting a state where a plurality of vehicular lamp fittings 10 (plurality of lens bodies 12) of Embodiment 1 are disposed on a line.

(22) FIG. 19A is a front view depicting the state where a plurality of the vehicular lamp fittings 10A (a plurality of the lens bodies 12A) according to Embodiment 2 are disposed on a line in the horizontal direction, and FIG. 19B is a top view thereof.

(23) FIG. 20A illustrates the low beam light distribution pattern P1a on virtual vertical screen which faces the front face of the vehicle (disposed at about 25 m in front of the front face of the vehicle), FIG. 20B illustrates a low beam light distribution pattern P1b, FIG. 20C illustrates a low beam light distribution pattern P1c.

(24) FIG. 21A is a top view, FIG. 21B is a side view, and FIG. 21C is a bottom view of the lens body 12A of Embodiment 2.

(25) FIG. 22 illustrates an example of the first entry surface 12a (cross-sectional view).

(26) FIG. 23 is a perspective view depicting the lens body 12A (first exit surface 12A1a, second entry surface 12A2a and second exit surface 12A2b) of Embodiment 2.

(27) FIG. 24 is a diagram depicting the normal lines of the first exit surface 12A1a, the second entry surface 12A2a, and the second exit surface 12A2b respectively.

(28) FIG. 25 is a diagram depicting a lens body 12B, which is a first modification of the lens body 12A of Embodiment 2.

(29) FIG. 26 is a perspective view depicting a lens body 12C (first exit surface 12A1a, second entry surface 12A2a, second exit surface 12A2b), which is a second modification of the lens body 12A of Embodiment 2.

(30) FIG. 27 is a front view depicting a state where a plurality of vehicular lamp fittings 10C (a plurality of lens bodies 12C) are disposed on a line in the vertical direction.

(31) FIG. 28A is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10D in which a camber angle is added, FIG. 28B is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 28C is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10D.

(32) FIG. 28D to FIG. 28F depicting comparative examples, where FIG. 28D is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2 to which the camber angle is not added, FIG. 28E is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 28F is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2.

(33) FIG. 29 is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) depicting a problem of the case of adding a comber angle.

(34) FIG. 30 is a drawing depicting a problem that appears in the low beam light distribution pattern when a comber angle is added.

(35) FIG. 31A is a cross-sectional view (of major optical surfaces only) at the position B in FIG. 29, FIG. 31B is a cross-sectional view (of major optical surfaces only) at the position C in FIG. 29

(36) FIG. 32A is a perspective view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10D of Embodiment 5, FIG. 32B is a comparative example, that is, a perspective view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2.

(37) FIG. 33 is a front view of the vehicular lamp fitting 10E in which a slant angle is added.

(38) FIG. 34A is a drawing depicting a problem that appears in the low beam light distribution pattern when a slant angle is added, and FIG. 34B is a schematic diagram of FIG. 34A.

(39) FIG. 35A is a drawing depicting a state when the problem (rotation) which appears in the low beam light distribution pattern was suppressed, and FIG. 35B is a schematic diagram of FIG. 35A.

(40) FIG. 36A is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10F in which a camber angle and a slant angle are added, FIG. 36B is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 36C is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10F.

(41) FIG. 37A is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10G according to the first comparative example, FIG. 37B is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 37C is an example of a light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10G.

(42) FIG. 38A is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10H of a second comparative example, FIG. 38B is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 38C is an example of a light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10H.

(43) FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the vehicular lamp 10 J (lens body 12 J).

(44) FIG. 40A is a top view of the vehicular lamp 10 J (lens body 12 J), FIG. 40B is a front view, FIG. 40C is a side view.

(45) FIG. 41A is an example of the vehicle lamp 10J (lens body 12J) light distribution pattern for low beam is formed by the PLO (synthetic light distribution pattern), FIGS. 41B to 41D illustrate various parts distribution light pattern PSPOT, PMID, PWIDE.

(46) FIG. 42A is a side view of the first optical system (primary optical surfaces only).

(47) FIG. 42B is a top view of the second optical system (primary optical surfaces only).

(48) FIG. 42C is a side view of the third optical system (primary optical surfaces only).

(49) FIG. 43A is a front view of a first rear end portion 12A1aa of the first lens unit 12A1, FIG. 43B is B-B sectional view of FIG. 43A (schematic diagram), and FIG. 43C is C-C sectional view of FIG. 43A (schematic diagrams).

(50) FIG. 44 is a front view (photo) of the vehicle lamp 10J (lens body 12J) emitting multi-point light.

(51) FIG. 45A is first side view of a sixth embodiment of a vehicular lamp 10E (lens body 12A) (primary optical surface is omitted first output surface 12A1a only), FIG. 45B is top view (first output surface 12A1a major omit optical surface only), FIG. 45C is side view (main optical surfaces only omitting the first output surface 12A1a), FIG. 45D is a top view (main optical surfaces only omitting the first output surface 12A1a).

(52) FIG. 46A is top view obtained by adding a first output surface 12A1a in FIG. 45B.

(53) FIG. 46B is top view obtained by adding a first output surface 12A1a in FIG. 45D.

(54) FIG. 47A is pair of the incident surface 42a constituting the second optical system, 42b and/or the right and left pair of side 44a, an adjustment example of a surface shape of 44b.

(55) FIG. 47B is pair of the incident surface 42a constituting the second optical system, 42b and/or the right and left pair of side 44a, an adjustment example of a surface shape of 44b.

(56) FIG. 48A is an example of adjusting the surface shape of the incident surface 42c on which constitute the third optical system.

(57) FIG. 48B is an example of adjusting the surface shape of the incident surface 42c on which constitute the third optical system.

(58) FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the vehicular lamp 10K (lens body 12K) of the eleventh embodiment.

(59) FIG. 50A is a top view of a vehicular lamp 10K (lens body 12K), FIG. 50B is a front view, and FIG. 50C is a side view.

(60) FIG. 51A is an example of the vehicle lamp 10K (lens body 12K) light distribution pattern for low beam is formed by the PLO (synthetic light distribution pattern), FIGS. 51B to 51D illustrate various parts distribution light pattern PSPOT, PMID, PWIDE.

(61) FIG. 52A is a side view of the first optical system.

(62) FIG. 52B is an enlarged side view of the first optical system.

(63) FIG. 53A is a top view of a second optical system.

(64) FIG. 53B is a side view of a third optical system.

(65) FIG. 54A is a front view of the rear end portion 12Kaa of the lens body 12K.

(66) FIG. 54B is B-B sectional view of FIG. 54A (schematic diagrams).

(67) FIG. 54C is C-C sectional view of FIG. 54A (schematic diagrams).

(68) FIG. 55A to FIG. 55C illustrate the entrance surface 12a, 42a, 42b, 42c are, in top view and/or side view, the V-shaped (or V-shape open towards the front end portion 12Kbb side one it is a diagram that represents the thing that make up the part).

(69) FIG. 56A is incident from the exit surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12K external light RayCC, RayDD (e.g., sunlight) is a diagram showing an optical path to follow.

(70) FIG. 56B is incident from the exit surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12K external light RayCC, RayDD (e.g., sunlight) is a diagram showing an optical path to follow.

(71) FIG. 56C is incident from the exit surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12K external light RayCC, RayDD (e.g., sunlight) is a diagram showing an optical path to follow.

(72) FIG. 57 illustrates in front of the lens body 12K arranged light source 50 likened to external light, a diagram representing the optical path where light traced from the light source 50 which enters the inner lens member 12K from the emission surface 12Kb.

(73) FIG. 58A is a longitudinal sectional view showing an optical path in which light is traced from a light source 14 which enters the inner lens member 12K of the eleventh embodiment.

(74) FIG. 58B is a perspective view of the lens body 12L (Modification).

(75) FIG. 59A to FIG. 59C illustrate diagram showing the lens body 12L (the modified example) measurement results of the emission surface 12Kb of (luminance distribution), FIG. 59D to FIG. 59F Comparative Example lens body (Eleventh Embodiment form of the lens body 12K) of the exit surface 12Kb of measurement results (which is a diagram showing the luminance distribution).

(76) FIG. 60A is a cross-sectional view showing an optical path in which light is traced from a light source 14 which enters the inner lens member 12K of the eleventh embodiment.

(77) FIG. 60B is a perspective view of the lens body 12M (this modification).

(78) FIG. 61A is a perspective view of a lens conjugate 16L which a plurality of lens bodies 12L which is a first modification of the connection of the lens body 12K of the eleventh embodiment.

(79) FIG. 61B is a perspective view of the lens conjugate 16L linked a plurality of lens body 12L is a first modification of the lens body 12K of the eleventh embodiment.

(80) FIG. 62 is a perspective view of the vehicular lighting fixture 10N (lens body 12N).

(81) FIG. 63A is a top view of the vehicular lighting fixture 10N (lens body 12N), FIG. 63B is a front view, and FIG. 63C is a side view thereof.

(82) FIG. 64A is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern P.sub.Lo (composite light distribution pattern) formed by the vehicular lighting fixture 10N (lens body 12N), FIG. 64B is an example of a spot light distribution pattern P.sub.SPOT, FIG. 64C is an example of as intermediate light distribution pattern P.sub.MID L, FIG. 64D is an example of as intermediate light distribution pattern P.sub.MID R, and FIG. 64E is an example of a wide light distribution pattern P.sub.WIDE.

(83) FIG. 65A is a front view of the first rear end portion 12A1aa of the first lens unit 12A1, and FIG. 65B is a B-B cross-sectional view (schematic diagram) of FIG. 65A.

(84) FIG. 66 is a lateral cross-sectional view (only major optical surfaces) of the second optical system.

(85) FIG. 67 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view (only major optical surfaces) of the second optical system.

(86) FIG. 68 is an enlarged perspective view of an area around the second lower reflection surface 48a (and the shade 48c) disposed on the left.

(87) FIG. 69 is a side view of the third optical system (only major optical surfaces).

(88) FIG. 70A is a diagram depicting glare generated when the light source 14 (light emitting surface) is 1 mm.sup.2 and the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12J with respect to the light source 14 is shifted from the design value in the Y direction (vertical direction) by +0.2 mm, and FIG. 70B is a diagram depicting a state in which glare is not generated in the intermediate light distribution pattern P.sub.MID when the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12J with respect to the light source 14 is exactly the same as the design values.

(89) FIG. 71 is a diagram depicting a state in which glare is generated when the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12N with respect to the light source 14 is shifted from the design value in the Y direction (vertical direction).

(90) FIG. 72A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vehicular lighting fixture 60 (lens body 62), and FIG. 72B is a front view thereof.

(91) FIG. 73A is an example of a high beam light distributed pattern P.sub.Hi (composite light distribution pattern) formed by the vehicular lighting fixture 60 (lens body 62), FIG. 73B is an example of a wide light distribution pattern P.sub.Hi WIDE, and FIG. 73C is an example of a spot light distribution pattern P.sub.Hi SPOT.

(92) FIG. 74A is a front view of the rear end portion 62a (an area around the first entrance surface 62a1, the second entrance surface 62a2, and the reflection surface 62a3 for the wide light distribution pattern), and FIG. 74B is a front view of the rear end portion 62a (an area around the first entrance surface 62a1, the second entrance surface 62a2, and the reflection surface 62a3 for the wide light distribution pattern) of the lens body 72C, which is a modification of the lens body 72.

(93) FIG. 75 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the lens body 62 (modification).

(94) FIG. 76A is a diagram depicting a state when the light from the light source 14, which enters the lens body 62 through the entrance surface A (first entrance surface 62a1 and second entrance surface 62a2) for a wide light distribution pattern, is diffused in the horizontal direction, and FIG. 76B is a diagram depicting a state when the light from the light source 14, which enters the lens body 62 through the entrance surface 62a5 for a spot light distribution pattern, is internally reflected on the reflection surface 62a6 for the spot light distribution pattern, and is collimated.

(95) FIG. 77 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the emission surface 62b2 (modification) for the spot light distribution pattern.

(96) FIG. 78 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the lens body 62 (modification).

(97) FIG. 79 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the lens body 62A (modification).

(98) FIG. 80 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rear end portion 62a of the lens body 62B (modification).

(99) FIG. 81A is a perspective view of the vehicular lighting fixture 70 (lens body 72) viewed from the diagonally lower front side, and FIG. 81B is a perspective view of the vehicular lighting fixture 70 (lens body 72) viewed from the diagonally lower back side.

(100) FIG. 82A is a top view of the vehicular lighting fixture 70 (lens body 72), FIG. 82B is a front view, and FIG. 82C is a side view thereof.

(101) FIG. 83 is an exploded perspective view of the vehicular lighting fixture 70 (lens body 72).

(102) FIG. 84A is an example of a wide light distribution pattern P.sub.Hi WIDE formed by the vehicular lighting fixture 70 (lens body 72), and FIG. 84B is an example of a spot light distribution pattern P.sub.Hi SPOT formed thereby.

(103) FIG. 85 is a perspective view of the third lens unit 62.sub.Hi viewed from the diagonally upper back side.

(104) FIG. 86 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view (schematic diagram) of the lens body 72.

(105) FIG. 87A is a side view depicting a state when the light Ray.sub.Hi WIDE from the third light source 14.sub.Hi, which entered the third lens unit 62.sub.Hi, is emitted from the front end portion 12A1bb (semi-cylindrical emission surface 12A2b) of the first and second lens units 12N.sub.Lo1 and 12N.sub.Lo2, and FIG. 87B is a top view thereof.

(106) FIG. 88A is a side view depicting a state when the light Ray.sub.Hi SPOT from the third light source 14.sub.Hi, which entered the third lens unit 62.sub.Hi, is emitted from the emission surface 62b2 for the spot light distribution pattern, and FIG. 88B is a top view thereof.

(107) FIG. 89A is a top view of the lens body 72A (modification), and FIG. 89B is a front view thereof.

(108) FIG. 90A is a front view of the rear end portion 12A1aa of the lens body 12N constituting the vehicular lighting fixture 10P, FIG. 90B is a B-B cross-sectional view (schematic diagram) of FIG. 90A, and FIG. 90C is a C-C cross-sectional view (schematic diagram) of FIG. 90A.

(109) FIG. 91 is a diagram depicting a state of the vehicular lighting fixture 10N of Embodiment 8 when the light Ray.sub.OUT from the light source 14, which spreads downward, does not enter the lens body 12N.

(110) FIG. 92 is an example (top view) of the reflection surface RefA (modification).

(111) FIG. 93 is a diagram depicting regions where reflected lights from the reflection regions Ref.sub.SPOT, Ref.sub.MID L and Ref.sub.MID R are distributed respectively.

(112) FIG. 94A is a diagram depicting a state of the vehicular lighting fixture 10N1 when the light Ray.sub.OUT from the light source 14, which spreads in vertical directions, does not enter the lens body 12N1, and FIG. 94B is a diagram depicting a state when the reflection surface Ref (RefA) is added to the vehicular lighting fixture 10N1 in FIG. 94A.

(113) FIG. 95A is a diagram depicting a state of the vehicular lighting fixture 10 of Embodiment 1 (vehicular lighting fixture 10A of Embodiment 2) when the light Ray.sub.OUT from the light source 14, which spreads in vertical and horizontal directions, does not enter the lens body 12 or 12A, and FIG. 95B is a diagram depicting a state when the reflection surface RefB is added to the vehicular lighting fixture 10 or 10A in FIG. 95A.

(114) FIG. 96 is a perspective view of the vehicular lighting fixture 64 (lens body 66).

(115) FIG. 97A is a rear view of the lens body 66.sub.L1, and FIG. 97B is a top view, FIG. 97C is a front view, and FIG. 97D is a left side view thereof.

(116) FIG. 98A is a right side view of the lens body 66.sub.L1, and FIG. 98B is a bottom view thereof.

(117) FIGS. 99A and 99B are examples of ADB light distribution patterns P.sub.L1 to P.sub.L3 and P.sub.R1 to P.sub.R3 which are formed by the vehicular lighting fixture 64 (lens body 66).

(118) FIG. 100A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the lens body 66, and FIG. 100B is a lateral cross-sectional view thereof.

(119) FIG. 101 is an example of the ADB light distribution patterns P.sub.L1 to P.sub.L3 and P.sub.R1 to P.sub.R3 (modification) which are formed by the vehicular lighting fixture 64 (lens body 66).

(120) FIG. 102 is a perspective view of the vehicular lighting fixture 74 (lens body 76).

(121) FIG. 103A is a rear view of the vehicular lighting fixture 74 (lens body 76), FIG. 103B is a front view, FIG. 103C is a bottom view, and FIG. 103D is a right side view thereof.

(122) FIG. 104 is an example of the low beam light distribution pattern P.sub.Lo formed by the first lens unit 12N and the ADB light distribution patterns P.sub.L1 to P.sub.L3 and P.sub.R1 to P.sub.R3 formed by the second lens unit 66.

(123) FIG. 105 is a perspective view (only major optical surfaces) of the vehicular lighting fixture 10Q (lens body 12Q).

(124) FIG. 106A is a side view (only major optical surfaces) of the vehicular lighting fixture 10Q (lens body 12Q), and FIG. 106B is a top view (only major optical surfaces) thereof.

(125) FIG. 107A is a front view (only major optical surfaces) of the vehicular lighting fixture 10Q (lens body 12Q), and FIG. 107B is a rear view (only major optical surfaces) thereof.

(126) FIG. 108 is a diagram depicting a state when the light emitted from the focal point F.sub.12A4 (or a reference point corresponding to the focal point F.sub.12A4) is collimated by the first intermediate emission surface 12A1a and the intermediate entrance surface 12A2a.

(127) FIG. 109A is an example of the final emission surface 12A2b configured as a plane surface which is perpendicular to the first reference axis AX1 and extends in the horizontal direction (e.g. a plane, the external shape of which is a rectangle), FIG. 109B is an example of the final emission surface 12A2b disposed to be inclined diagonally upper backward direction so that the lower end edge is located forward with respect to the upper end edge, and FIG. 109C is an example of the final emission surface 12A2b configured as a slightly curved surface which extends forward (see FIG. 103D).

(128) FIG. 110A is a diagram depicting a state when the light emitted from the focal point F.sub.12A4 (or a reference point corresponding to the focal point F.sub.12A4) is collimated by the first intermediate emission surface 12A1a and the intermediate entrance surface 12A2a in Embodiment 12, and FIG. 11013 is a diagram depicting a state when the light emitted from the focal point F.sub.12A4 (or a reference point corresponding to the focal point F.sub.12A4) is collimated by the first intermediate emission surface 12A1a and the intermediate entrance surface 12A2a in Embodiment 2.

(129) FIG. 111 is a perspective view of a left-right pair of the second intermediate emission surfaces 46a and 46b (modification).

(130) FIG. 112A is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vehicular lighting fixture 10J (lens body 12J) of Embodiment 6, to which the concept final emission surface (second emission surface 12A2b) is configured as a plane surface, is applied, and FIG. 112B is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vehicular lighting fixture 10N (lens body 12 N) of Embodiment 12 illustrated in FIG. 62, to which the concept final emission surface (second emission surface 12A2b) is configured as a plane surface is applied.

(131) FIG. 113 is a schematic block diagram of the vehicular lighting fixture 74A of Embodiment 15.

(132) FIG. 114 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view (schematic diagram) of the vehicular lighting fixture 74A.sub.R1.

(133) FIG. 115 is a top view (schematic diagram) of the vehicular lighting fixture 74A.sub.R1.

(134) FIG. 116 is a modification of the extended entrance surface 44f.

(135) FIG. 117 is a perspective view of the second lens body 66A.sub.R1.

(136) FIG. 118 is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of an area around the extended entrance surface 44f of the first lens body 12N and the emission surface 66Ab1 of the second lens body 66A.sub.R1.

(137) FIG. 119 is a simulation result of the ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.R1 formed on the virtual vertical screen.

(138) FIG. 120A is an example of the ADB light distribution pattern which is formed when it is determined that an irradiation prohibited target (e.g. preceding vehicle or oncoming vehicle) does not exist in front of this vehicle, and FIG. 120B is an example of the ADB light distribution pattern which is formed when it is determined that an irradiation-prohibited object (e.g. preceding vehicle V1 or oncoming vehicle V2) exists in front of this vehicle.

(139) FIG. 121 is a schematic block diagram of the vehicular lighting fixture 74B of Embodiment 16.

(140) FIG. 122 is a top view (schematic diagram) of the vehicular lighting fixture 74B.sub.R.

(141) FIG. 123 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vehicular lighting fixture 74A.sub.R1 using the second lens body 66B.sub.R1 which is a modification of the second lens body 66A.sub.R1.

(142) FIG. 124 is a schematic block diagram of the vehicular lighting fixture 74C of Embodiment 17.

(143) FIG. 125 is an example of the high beam light distribution pattern (composite light distribution pattern) on which the low beam light distribution pattern P.sub.Lo (P.sub.Lo1 to P.sub.Lo8) and the plurality of ADB light distribution patterns P.sub.L1 to P.sub.L4 and P.sub.R1 to P.sub.R4 are superimposed.

(144) FIG. 126 is a schematic block diagram of the vehicular lighting fixture 74D of Embodiment 18.

(145) FIG. 127A to FIG. 127C are front views of the emission surface 66Ab1 of the second lens body 66A.sub.R1 constituting the vehicular lighting fixture 74D.sub.R1.

(146) FIG. 128 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vehicular lighting fixture 200 according to Patent Literature 1.

(147) FIG. 129 is a top view depicting a state when a plurality of vehicular lighting fixtures 200 (a plurality of lens bodies 220) are disposed in a line.

(148) FIG. 130A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the low beam vehicular lighting fixture 200, FIG. 130B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the high beam vehicular lighting fixture 300, and FIG. 130C is a diagram (top view) depicting the state when the vehicular lighting fixtures 200 and 300 (lenses 210 and 310) are arranged in parallel.

(149) FIG. 131 is a side view of the vehicular lighting fixture 200 according to Patent Literature 1.

(150) FIG. 132A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the low beam lighting fixture unit 200 (lens body 220), FIG. 132B is an example of the low beam light distribution pattern P.sub.Lo formed by light irradiated forward from the low beam lighting fixture unit 200 (lens body 220), FIG. 132C is a schematic block diagram view of the ADB lighting fixture unit 300 equipped with the lens body 310, and FIG. 132D is an example of a plurality of ADB light distribution patterns PA1 to PA8 formed by the light irradiated forward from the ADB lighting fixture unit 300 (lens body 310).

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

(151) A vehicular lamp fitting according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(152) FIG. 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vehicular lamp fitting 10 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

(153) As illustrated in FIG. 1, the vehicular lamp fitting 10 according to Embodiment 1 includes a lens body 12, and a light source 14 which is disposed in the vicinity of an entry surface 12a of the lens body 12, and is configured as a vehicular head light which forms a low beam light distribution pattern P1, which includes cut-off lines CL1 to CL3 on an upper edge illustrated in FIG. 11A on a virtual vertical screen which faces the front face of the vehicle (disposed at about 25 m in front of the front face of the vehicle).

(154) FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the lens body 12 when viewed from the front, FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the lens body 12 when viewed from the back, FIG. 3A is a top view, FIG. 3B is a bottom view, and FIG. 3C is a side view of the lens body 12.

(155) As illustrated in FIG. 1, the lens body 12 is a lens body having a shape along a first reference axis AX1 extending in the horizontal direction, and includes the entry surface 12a, a reflection surface 12b, a shade 12c, an exit surface 12d, and a reference point F which is disposed in the vicinity of the entry surface 12a in the optical design. The entry surface 12a, the reflection surface 12b, the shade 12c and the exit surface 12d are disposed in this order along the first reference axis AX1. The material of the lens body 12 may be polycarbonate, or other transparent resins, such as acrylic or glass.

(156) In FIG. 1, a dotted line with an arrow at the end indicates an optical path of light from the light source 14 (to be more precise, the reference point F) which entered the lens body 12.

(157) The major functions of the lens body 12 are primarily capturing light from the light source 14 in the lens body 12, and secondly forming a low beam light distribution pattern which includes a cut-off line on an upper edge, by inverting and projecting a luminous intensity distribution (light source image) which is formed in the vicinity of a focal point F.sub.12d of the exit surface 12d (lens unit) by direct light RayA, which travels toward the exit surface 12d and reflected light RayB, which is internally reflected on the reflection surface 12b, out of the light captured in the lens body 12.

(158) FIG. 4A is a diagram depicting a state when the light from the light source 14 (to be more precise, the reference point F) enters the entry surface 12a, and FIG. 4B is a diagram depicting a state when the light from the light source 14, which entered the lens body 12 (direct light RayA), is condensed.

(159) The entry surface 12a is formed in the rear end of the lens body 12, and is a surface through which the light from the light source 14 (to be more precise, the reference point F in the optical design), which is disposed in the vicinity of the entry surface 12a (see FIG. 4A), is refracted and enters the lens body 12 (e.g. free-form surface that is convex toward the light source 14), and the surface shape thereof is configured such that the light from the light source 14 (direct light RayA), which entered the lens body 12, is condensed toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to a second reference axis AX2 with respect to at least the vertical direction (see FIG. 4B). The second reference axis AX2 passes through the center of the light source 14 (to be more precise, reference point F) and a point in the vicinity of the shade 12c, and is inclined forward and diagonally downward with respect to the first reference axis AX1 (see FIG. 1).

(160) The light source 14 includes, for example, a metal substrate (not illustrated), and a semiconductor light emitting element (not illustrated), such as a white LED light source (or white LD light source) mounted on the surface of the substrate. A number of the semiconductor light emitting elements is 1 or more. The light source 14 may be a light source other than the semiconductor light emitting element, such as a white LED light source (or white LD light source). The light source 14 is disposed in the vicinity of the entry surface 12a of the lens body 12 (in the vicinity of the reference point F) in an attitude such that the light emitting surface (not illustrated) thereof faces forward and diagonally downward, in other words, in an attitude such that the optical axis AX.sub.14 of the light source 14 matches the second reference axis AX2. The light source 14 may be disposed in the vicinity of the entry surface 12a of the lens body 12 (in the vicinity of the reference point F) in an attitude such that the optical axis AX.sub.14 of the light source 14 does not match the second reference axis AX2 (e.g. in the attitude such that the optical axis AX.sub.14 of the light source 14 is disposed in the horizontal direction).

(161) If the light source 14 is a semiconductor light emitting element (e.g. white LED light source), the directional characteristic of the light emitted from the light source 14 (light emitting surface) has Lambertian light distribution, and can be expressed by I()=I0cos . This expresses the diffusion of the light emitted from the light source 14. Here I() denotes the luminous intensity of the light in the direction that is inclined from the optical axis AX.sub.14 of the light source 14 by angle , and I0 denotes the luminous intensity on the optical axis AX.sub.14. In the light source 14, the luminous intensity is the maximum on the optical axis AX.sub.14 (=0).

(162) FIG. 5 is an example of the entry surface 12a (cross-sectional view), and FIG. 6 is another example of the entry surface 12a (cross-sectional view).

(163) As illustrated in FIG. 5, the surface shape of the entry surface 12a is configured such that the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 (direct light RayA), is condensed toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the first reference axis AX1 with respect to the horizontal direction. The surface shape of the entry surface 12a may be configured such that the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 (direct light RayA), becomes parallel with the reference axis AX1 with respect to the horizontal direction.

(164) The degree of diffusion of the low beam light distribution pattern in the horizontal direction can be freely adjusted by adjusting the surface shape of the entry surface 12a (e.g. curvature of the entry surface 12a in the horizontal direction).

(165) FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are diagrams depicting the distance between the entry surface 12a and the light source 14.

(166) By decreasing the distance between the entry surface 12a and the light source 14 (see FIG. 7B), the light source image becomes smaller compared with the case of increasing the distance between the entry surface 12a and the light source 14 (see FIG. 7A). As a result, the maximum luminous intensity of the luminous intensity distribution (and the low beam light distribution pattern) that is formed in the vicinity of the focal point F.sub.12d of the exit surface 12d (lens unit) can be increased even more.

(167) Further, by decreasing the distance between the entry surface 12a and the light source 14 (see FIG. 7B), the light from the light source 14 that is captured in the lens body 12 increases, compared with the case of increasing the distance between the entry surface 12a and the light source 14 (see FIG. 7A) (>). As a result, the efficiency of the lens body improves.

(168) The reflection surface 12b is a plane-shaped reflection surface extending forward in the horizontal direction from the lower edge of the entry surface 12a. The reflection surface 12b is a reflection surface that totally reflects the light emitted onto the reflection surface 12b, out of the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12, and metal deposition is not performed on the reflection surface 12b. The light emitted onto the reflection surface 12b, out of the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12, is internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b and is directed to the exit surface 12d, is then refracted by the exit surface 12d, and finally directed to the road surface. In other words, the reflected light RayB, internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b, is returned at the cut-off line, and is superposed onto the light distribution pattern after the cut-off line. As a result, the cut-off line is formed on the upper edge of the low beam light distribution pattern.

(169) The reflection surface 12b may be a plane-shaped reflection surface inclined forward and diagonally downward from the lower edge of the entry surface 12a with respect to the first reference axis AX1 (see FIG. 14B). The advantage of disposing the reflection surface 12b to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 will be described later.

(170) The shade 12c extending in the crosswise direction is formed on the front end of the reflection surface 12b.

(171) FIG. 8 is a diagram depicting functions of the shade 12c.

(172) As illustrated in FIG. 8, a main function of the shade 12c is to shield a part of the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12, and to form a luminous intensity distribution (light source image), that includes an edge corresponding to the cut-off line defined on the lower edge by the shade 12c, in the vicinity of the focal point F.sub.12d of the exit surface 12d (lens unit).

(173) FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram depicting the shade 12c when viewed from the light source 14 position, FIG. 9B is an enlarged perspective view of the reflection surface 12b (including the shade 12c) illustrated in FIG. 2A, and FIG. 9C is a top view of the reflection surface 12b (including the shade 12c) illustrated in FIG. 2A.

(174) As illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 9A to FIG. 9C, the shade 12c includes an edge e1 corresponding to a left horizontal cut-off line, an edge e2 corresponding to a right horizontal cut-off line, and an edge e3 corresponding to a diagonal cut-off line connecting the left horizontal cut-off line and the right horizontal cut-off line.

(175) The reflection surface 12b includes: a first reflection region 12b1 between the lower edge of the entry surface 12a and the edge e1 corresponding to the left horizontal cut-off line; a second reflection region 12b2 between the lower edge of the entry surface 12a and the edge e2 corresponding to the right horizontal cut-off line; and a third reflection region 12b3 between the first reflection region 12b1 and the second reflection region 12b2.

(176) The first reflection region 12b1 gradually curves up from the lower edge of the entry surface 12a approaching the edge e1 corresponding to the left horizontal cut-off line, and the second reflection region 12b2, on the other hand, extends forward from the lower edge of the entry surface 12a in the horizontal direction.

(177) As a result, the edge e1 corresponding to the left horizontal cut-off line is disposed in a position that is one step higher in the vertical direction than the edge e2 corresponding to the right horizontal cut-off line (in the case of driving on the right-hand side). For certain, the edge e1 corresponding to the left horizontal cut-offline may be disposed in a position that is one step lower in the vertical direction than the edge e2 corresponding to the right horizontal cut-off line (in the case of driving on the left hand side).

(178) The shade 12c may also be created by forming grooves on the front end of the reflection surface 12b, including: a groove corresponding to the left horizontal cut-off line, a groove corresponding to the right horizontal cut-off line, and a groove corresponding to the diagonal cut-off line connecting the left horizontal cut-off line and the right horizontal cut-off line.

(179) In FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C, modifications (side views) of the shade 12c are depicted. The shade 12c may be extended upward from the front end of the reflection surface 12b (see FIG. 10A), may be extended forward and diagonally upward in a curved state (see FIG. 10B), or may be extended forward and diagonally upward (see FIG. 10C). The shade 12c is not limited to these, but may have any shape as long as a part of the light from the light source 14 that enters the lens body 12 is shielded so that this light does not travel toward the exit surface 12d. The shielded light may be used for other light distributions or optical guidings.

(180) As illustrated in FIG. 1, the exit surface 12d is a surface (e.g. convex surface which protrudes forward) through which the direct light RayA, which is traveling toward the exit surface 12d, and the reflected light RayB, which is internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b and traveling toward the exit surface 12d, out of the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12, exit, and is configured as a lens unit of which focal point F.sub.12d is set in the vicinity of the shade 12c (e.g. in the vicinity of the center of the shade 12c in the crosswise direction). The exit surface 12d reversely projects a luminous intensity distribution (light source image) formed in the vicinity of the focal point F.sub.12d of the exit surface 12d (lens unit) by the direct light RayA and the reflected light RayB traveling toward the exit surface 12d, and forms a low beam light distribution pattern which includes the cut-off line on the upper edge.

(181) By increasing the distance between the shade 12c and the exit surface 12d (focal length), the light source image becomes smaller compared with a case of decreasing the distance between the shade 12c and the exit surface 12d (focal length). As a result, the maximum luminous intensity of the luminous intensity distribution (and low beam light distribution pattern), which is formed in the vicinity of the focal point F.sub.12d of the exit surface 12d (lens unit), can be further increased.

(182) Further, by decreasing the distance between the exit surface 12d and the light source 14 (or the shade 12c), the direct light RayA and the reflected light RayB captured in the exit surface increases compared with a case of increasing the distance between the exit surface 12d and the light source 14 (or the shade 12c). As a result, efficiency improves.

(183) The degree of diffusion of the low beam light distribution pattern in the horizontal direction and vertical direction can be freely adjusted by adjusting the surface shape of the exit surface 12d.

(184) The surface connecting the front edge of the reflection surface 12b and the lower edge of the exit surface 12d is an inclined surface extending forward and diagonally downward from the front edge of the reflection surface 12b. The surface connecting the front edge of the reflection surface 12b and the lower edge of the exit surface 12d is not limited to this, but may be any surface as long as the surface does not shield the direct light RayA and the reflected light RayB travelling toward the exit surface 12d. In the same manner, the surface connecting the upper edge of the entry surface 12a and the upper edge of the exit surface 12d is a plane surface extending in the horizontal direction between the upper edge of the entry surface 12a and the upper edge of the exit surface 12d. However, the surface connecting the upper edge of the entry surface 12a and the upper edge of the exit surface 12d is not limited to this, but may be any surface as long as the surface does not shield the direct light RayA and the reflected light RayB travelling toward the exit surface 12d.

(185) In the lens body 12 having the above configuration, light which entered the lens body 12 through the entry surface 12a is condensed toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 with respect to the vertical direction (e.g. condensed to the center of the shade 12c). If the surface shape of the entry surface 12a is configured as illustrated in FIG. 5, the light which entered the lens body through the entry surface 12a is condensed toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the first reference axis AX1 with respect to the horizontal direction (e.g. condensed to the center of the shade 12c).

(186) As described above, the direct light RayA condensed in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction and the reflected light RayB internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b travel toward the exit surface 12d, and exit through the exit surface 12d. At this time, by the direct light RayA and the reflected light RayB travelling toward the exit surface 12d, the luminous intensity distribution (light source image), which includes the edge corresponding to the cut-off line defined on the lower edge by the shade 12c, is formed in the vicinity of the focal point F.sub.12d of the exit surface 12d (lens unit). The exit surface 12d reversely projects this luminous intensity distribution and forms the low beam light distribution pattern P1, which includes the cut-off line on the upper edge, as illustrated in FIG. 11A on a virtual vertical screen.

(187) This low beam light distribution pattern P1 has a central luminous intensity that is relatively high and excels in long range visibility. This is because the light source 14 is disposed in the vicinity of the entry surface 12a (vicinity of the reference point F) of the lens body 12 in the attitude with which the optical axis AX.sub.14 of the light source 14 matches with the second reference axis AX2, and because the light on the optical axis AX.sub.14 having relatively high intensity (luminous intensity) (direct light) is condensed toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 (e.g. condensed to the center of the shade 12c).

(188) A low beam light distribution pattern P2, diffused in the horizontal direction, as illustrated in FIG. 11B, can be formed by adjusting the surface shape (e.g. curvature) of the entry surface 12a and/or the exit surface 12d.

(189) Further, the lower edge of the low beam light distribution pattern P1 or P2 can be extended downward by increasing the inclination of the second reference axis AX2 with respect to the first reference axis AX1 (see angle indicated in FIG. 1).

(190) If the surface shape of the entry surface 12a is configured as illustrated in FIG. 6, on the other hand, the light which entered the lens body 12 through the entry surface 12a becomes a light parallel with the first reference axis AX1 in the horizontal direction, as illustrated in FIG. 6.

(191) As described above, the direct light Ray A which condensed in the vertical direction and becomes parallel in the horizontal direction, and the reflected light RayB which is internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b, travel toward the exit surface 12d and exit through the exit surface 12d. At this time, by the direct light RayA and the reflected light RayB, travelling toward the exit surface 12d, the luminous intensity distribution (light source image), which includes the edges corresponding to the cut-off lines CL1 to CL3, defined on the lower edge of the shade 12c, is formed in the vicinity of the focal point F.sub.12d of the exit surface 12d (lens unit). The exit surface 12d reversely projects this luminous intensity distribution and forms a low beam light distribution pattern P3, which includes the cut-off lines CL1 to CL3 on the upper edge illustrated in FIG. 11C, on the virtual vertical screen. The low beam light distribution pattern P3 illustrated in FIG. 11C is not condensed in the horizontal direction, therefore the pattern is more diffused in the horizontal direction than the low beam light distribution pattern P1 illustrated in FIG. 11A.

(192) Next, the relationship between the light source image formed by the light from the light source 14, which entered the lens body 12, and the low beam distribution light distribution pattern, will be described.

(193) FIG. 12 is a diagram depicting the light source images formed by the light from the light source 14 on each cross-section Cs1 to Cs3.

(194) As illustrated in FIG. 12, the external shapes of the light source images I.sub.Cs1 and I.sub.Cs2 on the cross-sections Cs1 and Cs2 are the same as the external shape of the light source (the external shapes of the light source images are similar to and larger than the external shape of the light source 14).

(195) The external shape of the light source image I.sub.Cs3 on the cross-section CS3, after passing through the reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c, includes the edges e1, e2 and e3 corresponding to the cut-off lines CL1 to CL3 defined on the lower edge by the shade 12c. This light source image I.sub.Cs3 is inverted by the function of the exit surface 12d (lens unit), and includes the edges e1, e2 and e3 corresponding to the cut-off lines CL1 to CL3 defined by an upper edge by the shade 12c.

(196) The low beam light distribution patterns P1 to P3, illustrated in FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C, are formed based on this light source image which includes the edges e1, e2 and e3 corresponding to the cut-off lines CL1 to CL3 defined on the upper edge by the shade 12c, hence the low beam light distribution patterns P1 to P3 include the clear cut-off lines CL1, CL2 and CL3 on the upper edges.

(197) Next, the advantages of disposing the reflection surface 12b so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 will be described in comparison with the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b in the horizontal direction.

(198) The first advantage is that stray light decreases and efficiency improves compared with the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b in the horizontal direction.

(199) In other words, in the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b in the horizontal direction, as illustrated in FIG. 13A, the reflected light RayB, which was internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b, becomes a stray light RayB which travels in a direction that does not enter the exit surface 12d. As a result, the efficiency drops.

(200) On the other hand, in the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1, as illustrated in FIG. 13B, the reflected light RayB, which was internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b and travels toward the exit surface 12d, increases, and light captured in the exit surface 12d (reflected light which was internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b) increases. As a result, the stray light decreases and the efficiency improves compared with the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b in the horizontal direction.

(201) According to the simulation performed by the inventors of the present invention, in the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 by 5, the efficiency increases 33.8%, and in the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 by 10, the efficiency increases 60%.

(202) The second advantage is that the lens body 12 can be downsized compared with the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b in the horizontal direction.

(203) In other words, in the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b in the horizontal direction, as illustrated in FIG. 13A, the reflected light RayB, which was internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b, becomes a stray light RayB which travels in a direction that does not enter the exit surface 12d. By extending the exit surface 12d upward, as illustrated in FIG. 14A, the stray light RayB can be captured, but the size of the exit surface 12d increases because of the upward extension.

(204) On the other hand, in the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1, as illustrated in FIG. 14B, the exit surface 12d can capture more light (reflected light RayB internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b) without extending the exit surface 12d upward. As a result, the exit surface 12d (and therefore the lens body 12) can be downsized compared with the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b in the horizontal direction.

(205) According to the simulation performed by the inventors of the present application, in the case of disposing the reflection surface 12b so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 by 5, the height A (height in the vertical direction of the light which exits through the exit surface 12d) indicated in FIG. 14B, decreases 8% compared with the case illustrated in FIG. 14A, and if the reflection surface 12b is disposed so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 by 10, the height A indicated in FIG. 14B decreases 18.1% compared with the case illustrated in FIG. 14A.

(206) Now an advantage of disposing the second reference axis AX2 so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1, and condensing the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 at least with respect to the vertical direction, will be described in comparison with the case of disposing the second reference axis AX2 in the horizontal direction and condensing the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2, at least with respect to the vertical direction.

(207) The advantage is that stray light decreases and efficiency improves compared with the case of disposing the second reference axis AX2 in the horizontal direction and condensing the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2, at least with respect to the vertical direction.

(208) In other words, in the case of disposing the second reference axis AX2 in the horizontal direction and condensing the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 at least with respect to the vertical direction, as illustrated in FIG. 15A, most of the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 is shielded by the shade 12c. As a result, the efficiency drops considerably. Even if a reflection surface corresponding to the reflection surface 12b is added in FIG. 15A, the reflected light internally reflected by this reflection surface becomes stray light which travels in a direction that does not enter the exit surface 12d.

(209) On the other hand, in the case of disposing the second reference axis AX2 so as to be inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 and condensing the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 at least with respect to the vertical direction, as illustrated in FIG. 15B, the light captured in the exit surface 12d (reflected light RayB internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b) increases. As a result, the stray light decreases and the efficiency improves compared with the case of disposing the second reference axis AX2 in the horizontal direction and condensing the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 12 toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2, at least with respect to the vertical direction.

(210) As described above, according to this embodiment, a lens body 12, without including a reflection surface formed by metal deposition, which is a factor that increases cost, and a vehicular lamp fitting 10 equipped with this lens body 12, can be provided. Secondly, a lens body 12 that can suppress melting of the lens body 12 and a drop in the output of the light source 14, caused by the heat generated in the light source 14, and a vehicular lamp fitting 10 equipped with this lens body 12, can be provided.

(211) The reflection surface formed by metal deposition, which is a factor that increases cost, can be omitted, because the light from the light source 14 is controlled not by the reflection surface formed by metal deposition, but by refraction on the entry surface 12a and internal reflection on the reflection surface 12b.

(212) Melting of the lens body 12 or a drop in the output of the light source 14, caused by the heat generated in the light source 14, can be suppressed, because the entry surface 12a is formed on the rear end of the lens body 12, and the light source 14 is disposed outside the lens body 12 (that is, in a position distant from the entry surface 12a of the lens body 12).

(213) Next, a vehicular lamp fitting according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(214) FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the vehicular lamp fitting 10A according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, FIG. 17A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view thereof, and FIG. 17B is a diagram depicting the state of the light from the light source 14 that travels inside a lens body 12A.

(215) The vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2 and the above mentioned vehicular lamp fitting 10 of Embodiment 1 are different mainly in the following aspects.

(216) Firstly, in the vehicular lamp fitting 10 of Embodiment 1, condensing in the horizontal direction and condensing in the vertical direction are mainly performed by the exit surface 12d, which is the final exit surface, of the lens body 12, but in the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, condensing in the horizontal direction is mainly performed by a first exit surface 12A1a of a first lens unit 12A1, and condensing in the vertical direction is mainly performed by a second exit surface 12A2b of a second lens unit 12A2, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12A. In other words, in the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, the concept condensing functions are separated is applied.

(217) Secondly, in the vehicular lamp fitting 10 of Embodiment 1, the exit surface 12d, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12, is configured as a hemispherical surface (hemispherical refractive surface) in order to perform condensing in the horizontal direction and condensing in the vertical direction (see FIG. 2A), but in the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, the first exit surface 12A1a of the first lens unit 12A1 is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface) which extends in the vertical direction (see FIG. 23) in order to perform condensing in the horizontal direction, and the second exit surface 12A2b of the second lens unit 12A2, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12A, is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface) which extends in the horizontal direction (see FIG. 23) in order to perform condensing in the vertical direction.

(218) Thirdly, in the vehicular lamp fitting 10 of Embodiment 1, the exit surface 12d, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12, is configured as a hemispherical surface (hemispherical refractive surface), hence when a plurality of vehicular lamp fittings 10 (plurality of lens bodies 12) are disposed on a line (see FIG. 18), dots appear as if lined up, and a vehicular lamp fitting (combined lens body) having an integral appearance linearly extending in a predetermined direction is not able to be implemented, while in the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12A, is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface) extending in the horizontal direction, hence by disposing a plurality of vehicular lamp fittings 10A (plurality of lens bodies 12A) on a line (see FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B), a vehicular lamp fitting (combined lens bodies 16), having an integral appearance linearly extending in the horizontal direction, can be configured. FIG. 18 is a top view depicting a state where a plurality of vehicular lamp fittings 10 (plurality of lens bodies 12) of Embodiment 1 are disposed on a line.

(219) The other configuration is the same as the vehicular lamp fitting 10 of Embodiment 1. The vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2 will now be described focusing on the differences from the vehicular lamp fitting 10 of Embodiment 1, and a composing element the same as the vehicular lamp fitting 10 of Embodiment 1 will be denoted with a same reference symbol, and description thereof is omitted.

(220) As illustrated in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17B, the vehicular lamp fitting 10A according to Embodiment 2 includes the light source 14, the first lens unit 12A1, and the second lens unit 12A2, and is configured as a vehicular head light equipped with the lens body 12A, such that light from the light source 14 enters the first lens unit 12A1 through a first entry surface 12a of the first lens unit 12A1, exits through the first exit surface 12A1a of the first lens unit 12A1 after being partially shielded by the shade 12c of the first lens unit 12A1, further enters the second lens unit 12A2 through a second entry surface 12A2a of the second lens unit 12A2, then exits through a second exit surface 12A2b of the second lens unit 12A2, and is irradiated forward, so as to form a low beam light distribution pattern P1a or the like (corresponding to the predetermined light distribution pattern of the present invention), which includes cut-off lines CL1 to CL3 defined on an upper edge by the shade 12c illustrated in FIG. 20A.

(221) FIG. 21A is a top view, FIG. 21B is a side view, and FIG. 21C is a bottom view of the lens body 12A of Embodiment 2. FIG. 22 illustrates an example of the first entry surface 12a (cross-sectional view), and FIG. 23 is a perspective view depicting the lens body 12A (first exit surface 12A1a, second entry surface 12A2a and second exit surface 12A2b) of Embodiment 2.

(222) As illustrated in FIG. 17A and FIG. 21A to FIG. 21C, the lens body 12A is a lens body having a shape along the first reference axis AX extending in the horizontal direction, and includes the first lens unit 12A1, the second lens unit 12A2, and a connecting unit 12A3 which connects the first lens unit 12A1 and the second lens unit 12A2.

(223) The first lens unit 12A1 includes the first entry surface 12a, the reflection surface 12b, the shade 12c, the first exit surface 12A1a and a reference point F that is disposed in the vicinity of the first entry surface 12a in the optical design. The second lens unit 12A2 includes the second entry surface 12A2a and the second exit surface 12A2b. The first entry surface 12a, the reflection surface 12b, the shade 12c, the first exit surface 12A1a, the second entry surface 12A2a, and the second exit surface 12A2b are disposed in this order along the first reference axis AX1.

(224) The first lens unit 12A1 and the second lens unit 12A2 are connected by the connecting unit 12A3.

(225) The connecting unit 12A3 connects the first lens unit 12A1 and the second lens unit 12A2 at the upper portions thereof such that a space S (open area), surrounded by the first exit surface 12A1a, the second entry surface 12A2a and the connecting unit 12A3, is formed.

(226) The lens body 12A is integrally molded by injecting such transparent resin as polycarbonate and acrylic into a die, and cooling and solidifying the resin (injection molding).

(227) The space S is formed by a die of which the extracting direction is the opposite from the connecting unit 12A3 (see the arrow mark in FIG. 17A). To smoothly extracting the die, extracting angles and (also called drafts, which are preferably 2 or more) are set for the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a respectively. Thereby the die can be vertically extracted during molding, and the lens body 12 (and the later mentioned combined lens body 16) can be manufactured by one extraction operation (without using a slide) at low cost. The material of the lens body 12A may be glass, other than such transparent resins as polycarbonate and acrylic.

(228) The first entry surface 12a is a surface which is formed in the rear end of the first lens unit 12A1 (e.g. free-form surface protruding toward the light source 14), and through which the light from the light source 14 (to be more precise, the reference point F in the optical design), disposed in the vicinity of the first entry surface 12a, is refracted and enters the first lens unit 12A1, and the surface shape of the first entry surface 12a is configured such that the light from the light source 14, which entered the first lens unit 12A1, is condensed toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 with respect to the vertical direction (see FIG. 17B), and the light from the light source 14 is condensed toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the first reference axis AX1 with reference to the horizontal direction (see FIG. 22). The first reference axis AX passes through a point (e.g. focal point F.sub.12A4) in the vicinity of the shade 12c, and extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The second reference axis AX2 passes through the center (to be more precise, the reference point F) of the light source 14 and a point (e.g. focal point F.sub.12A4) in the vicinity of the shade 12c, and is inclined forward and diagonally downward with respect to the first reference axis AX1. The surface shape of the first entry surface 12a may be configured such that the light from the light source 14, which entered the first lens unit 12A1, becomes parallel with the reference axis AX1 (see FIG. 6) with respect to the horizontal direction.

(229) The first exit surface 12A1a is a surface configured to condense the light beams from the light source 14 which exited through the first exit surface 12A1a (in other words, the direct light which travels toward the first exit surface 12A1a and the reflected light which is internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b and travels toward the first exit surface 12A1a, out of the light beams from the light source 14 which entered the first lens unit 12A1) in the horizontal direction (corresponding to the first direction of the present invention). In concrete terms, the first exit surface 12A1a is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface of which cylindrical axis extends in the vertical direction, as illustrated in FIG. 23. The focal line of the first exit surface 12A1a extends in the vicinity of the shade 12c in the vertical direction.

(230) The second entry surface 12A2a is a surface which is formed on the rear end of the second lens unit 12A2, and through which the light from the light source 14, which exited through the first exit surface 12A1a, enters the second lens unit 12A2, and is configured as a plane surface, for example. The surface shape of the second entry surface 12A2a is not limited to this, but may be configured as a curved surface.

(231) The second exit surface 12A2b is a surface configured to condense the light from the light source 14, which exited through the second exit surface 12A2b, in the vertical direction (corresponding to the second direction of the present invention). In concrete terms, the second exit surface 12A2b is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface of which cylindrical axis extends in the horizontal direction, as illustrated in FIG. 23. The focal line of the second exit surface 12A2b extends in the vicinity of the shade 12c in the horizontal direction.

(232) Similarly to the focal point F.sub.12d of the exit surface 12d of Embodiment 1, the focal point F.sub.12A4 of the lens 12A4, constituted by the first exit surface 12A1a and the second lens unit 12A2 (the second entry surface 12A2a and the second exit surface 12A2b) is set in the vicinity of the shade 12c (e.g. in the vicinity of the center of the crosswise direction of the shade 12c). Similarly to the exit surface 12d of Embodiment 1, this lens 12A4 is configured such that light reversely projects the luminous intensity distribution (light source image), which is formed in the vicinity of the focal point F.sub.12A4 of the lens 12A4 by the light beams from the light source 14 which entered the first lens unit 12A1, (in other words, the direct light which travels toward the first exit surface 12A1a and the reflected light which was internally reflected by the reflection surface 12b and travels toward the first exit surface 12A1a, out of the light beams from the light source 14 which entered the first lens unit 12A1), and forms the low beam light distribution pattern P1a, including the cut-off lines CL1 to CL3 defined on an upper edge as illustrated in FIG. 20A on the virtual vertical screen.

(233) The basic surface shape of the second exit surface 12A2b is as described above, but is actually adjusted as follows, since the extracting angles and are set for the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a.

(234) FIG. 24 is a diagram depicting the normal lines of the first exit surface 12A1a, the second entry surface 12A2a, and the second exit surface 12A2b respectively.

(235) In other words, in the case when the extracting angles and are set for the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a, the normal lines N.sub.12A1a and N.sub.12A2a, which pass through the centers of the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a, incline with respect to the horizontal line respectively, as illustrated in FIG. 24. In this case, if the normal line N.sub.12A2b, passing through the center of the second exit surface 12A2b, extends in the horizontal direction, the light from the light source 14, which exits through the second exit surface 12A2b, becomes light traveling diagonally upward with respect to the horizontal line, which may cause glare.

(236) To suppress this, the surface shape of the second exit surface 12A2b is adjusted so that the light from the light source 14, which exits through the second exit surface 12A2b, becomes parallel light with respect to the first reference axis AX1. For example, the second exit surface 12A2b is adjusted to the surface shape of which the normal line N.sub.12A2b thereof is inclined forward and diagonally upward, so that the light from the light source 14, which exits through the second exit surface 12A2b, becomes parallel light with respect to the first reference axis AX1. This adjustment is performed for matching the focal point F.sub.12A4 of the lens 12A4 constituted by the first exit surface 12A1a and the second lens unit 12A2 (second entry surface 12A2a and second exit surface 12A2b) to a position in the vicinity of the shade 12c. The line with an arrow at the end in FIG. 24 indicates the optical path of the light from the light source 14 (to be more precise, the reference point F) which entered the lens body 12A.

(237) The surface connecting the front edge of the reflection surface 12b and the bottom edge of the first exit surface 12A1a is an inclined surface extending forward and diagonally downward from the front edge of the reflection surface 12b, but the surface is not limited to this, and may be any surface as long as the light from the light source 14 traveling toward the second exit surface 12A2b is not shielded. In the same manner, the top surface of the lens body 12A, that is the surface connecting the upper edge of the first entry surface 12a and the upper edge of the second exit surface 12A2b, is a surface extending approximately in the horizontal direction, but the surface is not limited to this, and may be any surface as long as the light from the light source 14 traveling toward the second exit surface 12A2b is not shielded. In the same manner, both side surfaces of the lens body 12A, which are surfaces connecting the left and right edges of the first entry surface 12a and the left and right edges of the second exit surface 12A2b, are inclined surfaces that are tapered toward the first entry surface 12a (see FIG. 21A), but the surfaces are not limited to this, and may be any surfaces as long as the light from the light source 14 traveling toward the second exit surface 12A2b is not shielded.

(238) In the vehicular lamp fitting 10A (lens body 12A) having the above mentioned configuration, the light from the light source 14 enters the first lens unit 12A1 through the first entry surface 12a of the first lens unit 12A1, and exits through the first exit surface 12A1a of the first lens unit 12A1 after being partially shielded by the shade 12c of the first lens unit 12A1. At this time, the light from the light source 14, which exits through the first exit surface 12A1a, is condensed in the horizontal direction by a function of the first exit surface 12A1a (see FIG. 22. The light is not condensed or hardly condensed in the vertical direction). Then the light from the light source 14, which exited through the first exit surface 12A1a, passes through the space S, further enters the second lens unit 12A2 through the second entry surface 12A2a of the second lens unit 12A2, exits through the second exit surface 12A2b of the second lens unit 12A2, and is irradiated forward. At this time, the light from the light source 14, which exits through the second exit surface 12A2b, is condensed in the vertical direction by a function of the second exit surface 12A2b (see FIG. 17B. The light is not condensed, or hardly condensed in the horizontal direction). Thereby the low beam light distribution pattern P1a or the like (corresponding to the predetermined light distribution pattern of the present invention) including the cut-off lines CL1 to CL3 defined on an upper edge by the shade 12c as illustrated in FIG. 20A, is formed on the virtual vertical screen.

(239) This low beam light distribution pattern P1a or the like has a relatively high central luminous intensity and excellent long range visibility. This is because the light source 14 is disposed in the vicinity of the entry surface 12a (in the vicinity of the reference point F) of the lens body 12A in an attitude such that the optical axis AX.sub.14 of the light source 14 matches the second reference axis AX2, and that light on the optical axis AX.sub.14 (direct light) having a relatively high intensity (luminous intensity) is condensed toward the shade 12c in a direction closer to the second reference axis AX2 (e.g. condensed to the center of the shade 12c).

(240) The degree of diffusion of the low beam light distribution pattern in the horizontal direction and/or the vertical direction can be freely adjusted as illustrated in FIG. 20A to FIG. 20C by adjusting the surface shape (e.g. curvature) of the first exit surface 12A1a and/or the second exit surface 12A2b. For example, a degree of the diffusion of the low beam light distribution pattern in the horizontal direction can be freely adjusted by adjusting the surface shape (e.g. curvature) of the first exit surface 12A1a. In the same manner, a degree of diffusion of the low beam light distribution pattern in the vertical direction can be freely adjusted by adjusting the surface shape (e.g. curvature) of the second exit surface 12A2b.

(241) FIG. 19A is a front view depicting the state where a plurality of the vehicular lamp fittings 10A (a plurality of the lens bodies 12A) according to Embodiment 2 are disposed on a line in the horizontal direction, and FIG. 19B is a top view thereof.

(242) As illustrated in FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B, the combined lens body 16 includes a plurality of the lens bodies 12A. The combined lens body 16 (a plurality of the lens bodies 12A) is integrally molded by injecting such transparent resins as polycarbonate and acrylic into a die, and cooling and solidifying the resin (injection molding). The second exit surface 12A2b of each of the plurality of lens bodies 12A is disposed on a line in the horizontal direction so as to be adjacent to each other, and constitutes a semicircular cylindrical exit surface group having an integral appearance linearly extending in the horizontal direction.

(243) By using the combined lens body 16 having the above mentioned configuration, a vehicular lamp fitting having an integral appearance, linearly extending in the horizontal direction, can be configured. The combined lens body 16 may be configured by molding a plurality of lens bodies 12 in a physically separated state, and connecting (holding) the lens bodies 12 using a holding member (not illustrated), such as a lens holder.

(244) As described above, according to Embodiment 2, the following effects can be implemented in addition to the above mentioned effects of Embodiment 1.

(245) Firstly, a lens body 12A (combined lens body 16) having an integral appearance linearly extending in the horizontal direction, and a vehicular lamp fitting 10A equipped with this lens body 12A (combined lens body 16), can be provided. Secondly, a lens body 12A (combined lens body 16) that can form a low beam light distribution pattern P1a or the like, condensed in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, even though the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the horizontal direction), and a vehicular lamp fitting 10A equipped with this lens body 12A (combined lens body 16), can be provided.

(246) The integral appearance linearly extending in the horizontal direction can be implemented because the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the horizontal direction).

(247) The low beam light distribution pattern P1a or the like, condensed in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, can be formed even though the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the horizontal direction), because condensing light in the horizontal direction is mainly performed by the first exit surface 12A1a (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the vertical direction) of the first lens unit 12A1, and condensing light in the vertical direction is mainly performed by the second exit surface 12A2b (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the horizontal direction) of the second lens unit 12A2, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12A. In other words, the condensing functions are separated.

(248) Further, according to Embodiment 2, a lens body 12A (combined lens body 16) suitable for a vehicular lamp fitting, and a vehicular lamp fitting 10A equipped with the lens body 12A (combined lens body 16), are provided, whereby the light from the light source 14 exited from the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, becomes light parallel with the first reference axis AX1, even though the extracting angles and are set for the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a respectively.

(249) Next modifications will be described.

(250) FIG. 25 is a diagram depicting a lens body 12B, which is a first modification of the lens body 12A of Embodiment 2.

(251) As illustrated in FIG. 25, the lens body 12B of this modification is configured by molding the first lens unit 12A1 and the second lens unit 12A2 in a physically separated state, and connecting (holding) these lens units by the holding member 18, such as a lens holder. The extracting angles and are not set for the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a, and are formed as a plane surface (or curved surface) orthogonal to the reference axis AX1.

(252) According to this modification, the extracting angles and are unnecessary, therefore the adjustment of the second exit surface 12A2b can be omitted.

(253) FIG. 26 is a perspective view depicting a lens body 12C (first exit surface 12A1a, second entry surface 12A2a, second exit surface 12A2b), which is a second modification of the lens body 12A of Embodiment 2.

(254) The lens body 12C of this modification corresponds to Embodiment 2, where the first exit surface 12A1a and the second exit surface 12A2b are reversed.

(255) In other words, the first exit surface 12A1a of the lens body 12C of this modification is a surface configured to condense the light from the light source 14 which exits through the first exit surface 12A1a in the vertical direction (corresponding to the first direction of the present invention). In concrete terms, as illustrated in FIG. 26, the first exit surface 12A1a is a semicircular cylindrical surface of which cylindrical axis extends in the horizontal direction. In this case, the focal line of the first exit surface 12A1a extends in the horizontal direction in the vicinity of the shade 12c. The second exit surface 12A2b of the lens body 12C of this modification is a surface configured to condense the light from the light source 14 which exits through the second exit surface 12A2b in the horizontal direction (corresponding to the second direction of the present invention). In concrete terms, as illustrated in FIG. 26, the second exit surface 12A2b is a semicircular cylindrical surface of which cylindrical axis extends in the horizontal direction. In this case, the focal line of the second exit surface 12A2b extends in the vertical direction in the vicinity of the shade 12c.

(256) The focal point F.sub.12A4 of the lens 12A4, constituted by the first exit surface 12A1a and the second lens unit 12A2 (second entry surface 12A2a and second exit surface 12A2b) of the lens body 12C of this modification, is set in the vicinity of the shade 12c (e.g. in the vicinity of the center of the shade 12c in the crosswise direction), similarly to Embodiment 2.

(257) FIG. 27 is a front view depicting a state where a plurality of vehicular lamp fittings 10C (a plurality of lens bodies 12C) are disposed on a line in the vertical direction.

(258) As illustrated in FIG. 27, the combined lens body 16C includes a plurality of lens bodies 12C. The combined lens body 16C (plurality of lens bodies 12C) is integrally molded by injecting such transparent resins as polycarbonate and acrylic into a die, and cooling and solidifying the resin (injection molding). The second exit surface 12A2b of the plurality of lens bodies 12C is disposed on a line in the vertical direction so as to be adjacent to each other, and constitutes a semicircular cylindrical exit surface group having an integral appearance linearly extending in the vertical direction.

(259) By using the combined lens body 16C having the above mentioned configuration, a vehicular lamp fitting 10C, having an integral appearance linearly extending in the virtual direction, can be configured. The combined lens body 16C may be configured by molding the plurality of lens bodies 12C in a physically separated state, and connecting (holding) the lens bodies 12C using a holding member (not illustrated), such as a lens holder.

(260) According to this modification, a lens body 12C (combined lens body 16C) having an integral appearance linearly extending in the vertical direction, and a vehicular lamp fitting 10C equipped with this lens body 12C (combined lens body 16C), can be provided. Secondly, a lens body 12C (combined lens body 16C) that can form a low beam light distribution pattern P1a or the like condensed in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, even though the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the vertical direction), and a vehicular lamp fitting 10C equipped with this lens body 12C (combined lens body 16C), can be provided.

(261) The integral appearance linearly extending in the vertical direction can be implemented because the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the vertical direction).

(262) The low beam light distribution pattern P1a or the like, condensed in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, can be formed even though the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the vertical direction), because condensing light in the vertical direction is mainly performed by the first exit surface 12A1a (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the horizontal direction) of the first lens unit 12A1, and condensing light in the horizontal direction is mainly performed by the second exit surface 12A2b (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface extending in the vertical direction) of the second lens unit 12A2, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12A. In other words, the condensing functions are separated.

(263) The concept of the condensing functions are separated described in Embodiment 2 is not limited to the vehicular lamp fitting 10 of Embodiment 1, but can be applied to various vehicular lamp fittings (e.g. vehicular lamp fitting according to Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-228502 described in BACKGROUND ART), of which the final exit surface is a hemispherical surface (hemispherical refractive surface). This aspect will be described next in Embodiment 3 and Embodiment 4.

(264) Next a vehicular lamp fitting 10D, in which a camber angle is added, will be described as Embodiment 3 with reference to the drawings.

(265) FIG. 28A is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10D in which a camber angle is added, FIG. 28B is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 28C is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10D. FIG. 28D to FIG. 28F depicting comparative examples, where FIG. 28D is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2 to which the camber angle is not added, FIG. 28E is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 28F is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2. FIG. 29 is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) depicting a problem of the case of adding a comber angle.

(266) As illustrated in FIG. 28B, the vehicular lamp fitting 10D of Embodiment 5 corresponds to the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, in which the second lens unit 12A2 is inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 when viewed from the top, in other words, the vehicular lamp fitting 10D of Embodiment 5 corresponds to the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, in which the second exit surface 12A2b is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction which is inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 by a predetermined angle (that is, a camber angle 1 (e.g. 1=30) is added) when viewed from the top.

(267) According to the simulation performed by the inventors of the present invention, if only the camber angle 1 is added, the distance between the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a is different between each side of the first reference axis AX1 as illustrated in FIG. 29 (see arrow B and arrow C in FIG. 29), and a focal position F.sub.B of the light which exits through a position B of the first exit surface 12A1a and a focal position F.sub.C of the light which exits through a position C of the first exit surface 12A1a deviate considerably from each other, and as a result, as illustrated in FIG. 30, the light is not condensed on the side where the distance between the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a is wider (right side in FIG. 30), in the low beam light distribution pattern formed on the virtual vertical screen, and the light distribution pattern blurs.

(268) The cause of generating this blur will be described with reference to the drawings.

(269) FIG. 31A is a cross-sectional view (of major optical surfaces only) at the position B in FIG. 29, and a line with an arrow at the end in FIG. 31A indicates an optical path of the light Ray1B, which enters the first exit surface 12A1a (position B) at a predetermined entry angle. FIG. 31B is a cross-sectional view (of major optical surfaces only) at the position C in FIG. 29, and a line with an arrow at the end in FIG. 31B indicates an optical path of the light Ray1C, which enters the first exit surface 12A1a (position C) at a same entry angle as FIG. 31A. To simplify description, the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a are illustrated without setting the extracting angles in FIG. 31A and FIG. 31B, but FIG. 31A and FIG. 31B are applicable to a case of setting the extracting angles.

(270) As illustrated in FIG. 31B, the distance between the first exit surface 12A1a and the second entry surface 12A2a is wider at the position C, compared with the position B (see FIG. 31A). Therefore the entry position of the light Ray1C to the second entry surface 12A2a becomes lower than the entry position of the light Ray1B to the second entry surface 12A2a illustrated in FIG. 31A, and the light Ray1C that enters through this lower entry position travels upward, with respect to the horizontal direction, as illustrated in FIG. 31B. As a result, the above mentioned blur is generated.

(271) As a result of keen examination to suppress this blur, the present inventors discovered that this blur is suppressed and the low beam light distribution pattern is generally condensed by adjusting the surface shape of the first exit surface 12A1a (see FIG. 28C).

(272) Based on this knowledge, the first exit surface 12A1a of Embodiment 5 is a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in the vertical direction, and the surface shape thereof is adjusted such that the low beam light distribution pattern is generally condensed (see FIG. 28C). This adjustment is for matching the shifted-focal position FB, FC and the like with a position in the vicinity of the shade 12c, and is performed using a predetermined simulation software. FIG. 32A is a perspective view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10D of Embodiment 3, FIG. 32B is a comparative example, that is, a perspective view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2. As illustrated in FIG. 32A, the first exit surface 12A1a of Embodiment 5, adjusted as mentioned above, becomes non-symmetric-shaped with respect to the reference axis AX1.

(273) The vehicular lamp fitting 10D of Embodiment 5 is the same as the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, except for the above mentioned aspects.

(274) According to Embodiment 5, the following effects can be implemented in addition to the effects of Embodiment 2.

(275) Firstly, a lens body (combined lens body) having a new appearance in which a camber angle is added, and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with this lend body (combined lens body), can be provided. In other words, a lens body (combined lens body) having an integral appearance linearly extending in a direction inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 by a predetermined angle when viewed from the top, and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with this lens body (combined lens body), can be provided. Secondly, a lens body (combined lens body), which can form a low beam light distribution pattern condensed in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, even though the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface), and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with this lens body (combined lens body), can be provided. Thirdly, a lens body (combined lens body) that can generally condense the low beam light distribution pattern, even though a camber angle is added, and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with this lens body (combined lens body) can be provided.

(276) The integral appearance linearly extending in a direction inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 by a predetermined angle can be implemented, because the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface), and this second exit surface 12A2b extends in a direction inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 when viewed from the top.

(277) The low beam light distribution pattern condensed in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction can be formed even though the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface), because condensing light in the horizontal direction is mainly performed by the first exit surface 12A1a (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface) of the first lens unit 12A1, and condensing light in the vertical direction is mainly performed by the second exit surface 12A2b (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface) of the second lens unit 12A2, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12A. In other words, the condensing functions are separated.

(278) The low beam light distribution pattern is generally condensed even though the camber angle is added, because the first exit surface 12A1a is a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in the vertical direction, and the surface shape is adjusted such that the low beam light distribution pattern is generally condensed.

(279) The concept the camber angle is added described in Embodiment 5 and the concept of suppressing the blur, which is generated by adding the camber angle, as described above, are not limited to the vehicular lamp fitting 10A (lens body 12A) of Embodiment 2, but can be applied to each modification thereof and the like. These concepts can also be applied to the vehicular lamp fitting 10J (lens body 12J) of Embodiment 6, which will be described later.

(280) Next, a vehicular lamp fitting 10E, in which a slant angle is added, will be described as Embodiment 4 with reference to the drawings.

(281) FIG. 33 is a front view of the vehicular lamp fitting 10E in which a slant angle is added.

(282) As illustrated in FIG. 33, the vehicular lamp fitting 10E of Embodiment 6 corresponds to the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, in which the second lens unit 12A2 is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction when viewed from the front, in other words, corresponds to the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, in which the second exit surface 12A2b is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction which is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by a predetermined angle 2 when viewed from the front (that is, a slant angle 2 (e.g. 2=12) is added). In concrete terms, the second lens unit 12A2 (second exit surface 12A2b) of Embodiment 6 corresponds to the second lens unit 12A2 (second exit surface 12A2b) of Embodiment 2, which is rotated around the first reference axis AX1 by a predetermined angle 2.

(283) According to the simulation performed by the inventors of the present invention, if only the slant angle 2 is added, the focal line of the second lens unit 12A2 inclines with respect to the shade 12c, and as a result, the low beam light distribution pattern formed on the virtual vertical screen is rotated (or blurred state), as illustrated in FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B. FIG. 34A is a drawing depicting a problem that appears in the low beam light distribution pattern when a slant angle is added, and FIG. 34B is a schematic diagram of FIG. 34A.

(284) As a result of keen examination to suppress this rotation (or blurred state), the present inventors discovered that the above mentioned rotation is suppressed (see FIG. 35A and FIG. 35B) by configuring the first exit surface 12A1a as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction which is inclined with respect to the vertical direction by a predetermined angle 2 when viewed from the front, and disposing the reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c in an attitude inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by the predetermined angle 2 in the opposite direction of the second exit surface 12A2b and the first exit surface 12A1a, as illustrated in FIG. 33. FIG. 35A is a drawing depicting a state when the problem (rotation) which appears in the low beam light distribution pattern was suppressed, and FIG. 35B is a schematic diagram of FIG. 35A.

(285) The reason why the rotation (or blurred state) is suppressed will be described with reference to the drawings.

(286) FIG. 45A is a side view of the vehicular lamp fitting 10E (lens body 12A) of Embodiment 6 (of only major optical surfaces with omitting the first exit surface 12A1a) and FIG. 45B is a top view thereof (of only major optical surfaces with omitting the first exit surface 12A1a), and both indicate the optical path of parallel light RayAA, which entered the lens body 12A through the second exit surface 12A2b (that is, the result of reverse ray tracing).

(287) FIG. 45C is a side view of the vehicular lamp fitting 10E (lens body 12A) of Embodiment 6 (of only major optical surfaces with omitting the first exit surface 12A1a), and FIG. 45D is a top view thereof (of only major optical surfaces with omitting the first exit surface 12A1a), and both indicate the optical path of parallel light RayBB, which entered the lens body 12A through the second exit surface 12A2b (that is, the result of reverse ray tracing).

(288) In FIG. 45A to FIG. 45D, the slant angle 2 (=10) is added to the second lens unit 12A2, and the focal line of the second lens unit 12A2 is inclined with respect to the horizontal line by the slant angle 2. As a result, the focal point FBB in FIG. 45C is positioned higher than the focal point FAA in FIG. 45A.

(289) The optical paths of the parallel light RayAA and RayBB in the case of disposing the first exit surface 12A1a, on the other hand, are illustrated in FIG. 46A and FIG. 46B.

(290) FIG. 46A is a top view when the first exit surface 12A1a is added to FIG. 45B, and indicates the optical path of the parallel light RayAA which entered the lens body 12A through the second exit surface 12A2b (that is, the result of reverse ray tracing). FIG. 46B is a top view when the first exit surface 12A1a is added to FIG. 45D, and indicates the optical path of the parallel light RayBB which entered the lens body 12A through the second exit surface 12A2b (that is, the result of reverse ray tracing).

(291) In the case of adding the slant angle 2 (=10) to the first exit surface 12A1a (that is, the case when the first exit surface 12A1a is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction by the predetermined angle 2), the components having a low focal point F.sub.AA (that is, RayAA) are refracted because of the function of the first exit surface 12A1a, travel in the reverse direction, and are focused, as illustrated in FIG. 46A. The components having a high focal point F.sub.BB (that is, RayBB), on the other hand, are refracted because of the function of the first exit surface 12A1a, travel in the reverse direction, and are focused, as illustrated in FIG. 46B. As a result, the focal line is inclined in the opposite direction of the slant direction.

(292) In order to match (approximately match) the shade 12c with the focal line inclined in the opposite direction of the slant direction, the reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c are disposed in an attitude inclined with respect to the horizontal line by the predetermined angle 2 in the opposite direction of the second exit surface 12A2b and the first exit surface 12A1a when viewed from the front. Thereby, the shade 12c matches (approximately matches) with the focal line, which is inclined in the opposite direction of the slant direction, and the above mentioned rotation (or blurred state) can be suppressed.

(293) Based on this knowledge, the first exit surface 12A1a of Embodiment 6 is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction by the predetermined angle 2 when viewed from the front. In concrete terms, the first exit surface 12A1a of Embodiment 6 corresponds to the first exit surface 12A1a of Embodiment 2 that is rotated around the first reference axis AX1 by the predetermined angle 2 in the same direction as the second exit surface 12A2b.

(294) The reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c are disposed in an attitude inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by the predetermined angle 2 in the opposite direction of the second exit surface 12A2b and the first exit surface 12A1a when viewed from the front. In concrete terms, the reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c of Embodiment 6 correspond to the reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c of Embodiment 2 that are rotated around the first reference axis AX1 by the predetermined angle 2 in the opposite direction of the second exit surface 12A2b and the first exit surface 12A1a.

(295) The vehicular lamp fitting 10E of Embodiment 6 is the same as the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, except for the above mentioned aspects.

(296) According to Embodiment 6, the following effects can be implemented in addition to the effects of Embodiment 2.

(297) Firstly, a lens body (combined lens body) having a new appearance in which a slant angle is added, and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with this lens body (combined lens body), can be provided. In other words, a lens body (combined lens body) having an integral appearance linearly extending in a direction inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by a predetermined angle when viewed from the front, and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with this lens body (combined lens body), can be provided. Secondly, a lens body (combined lens body) which can form a low beam light distribution pattern condensed in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, even though the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface), and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with this lens body (combined lens body), can be provided. Thirdly, a lens body (combined body) that can suppress rotation of the low beam light distribution pattern, even though a slant angle is added, and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with this lens body (combined lens body), can be provided.

(298) The integral appearance linearly extending in a direction inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by a predetermined angle can be implemented, because the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface), and this second exit surface 12A2b extends in a direction inclined with respect to the horizontal direction when viewed from the front.

(299) The low beam light distribution pattern condensed in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction can be formed even though the second exit surface 12A2b, which is the final exit surface, is a semicircular cylindrical surface (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface), because condensing light in the horizontal direction is mainly performed by the first exit surface 12A1a (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface) of the first lens unit 12A1, and condensing light in the vertical direction is mainly performed by the second exit surface 12A2b (semicircular cylindrical refractive surface) of the second lens unit 12A2, which is the final exit surface of the lens body 12A. In other words, the condensing functions are separated.

(300) Rotation of the low beam light distribution pattern is suppressed even though the slant angle is added, because the first exit surface 12A1a is a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction by a predetermined angle, when viewed from the front, and the shade 12c (and the reflection surface 12b) is disposed in an attitude inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by a predetermined angle in the opposite direction of the second exit surface 12A2b and the first exit surface 12A1a.

(301) The concept of the slant angle is added described in Embodiment 6, and the concept of suppressing the rotation, which is generated by adding the slant angle, as described above, are not limited to the vehicular lamp fitting 10A (lens body 12A) of Embodiment 2, but can be applied to each modification thereof and the like. These concepts can also be applied to the vehicular lamp fitting 10J (lens body 12J) of Embodiment 6, which will be described later.

(302) Next a vehicular lamp fitting 10F, in which a camber angle and a slant angle are added, will be described as Embodiment 5 with reference to the drawings.

(303) FIG. 36A is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10F in which a camber angle and a slant angle are added, FIG. 36B is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 36C is an example of a low beam light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10F.

(304) As illustrated in FIG. 36A and FIG. 36B, the vehicular lamp fitting 10F of Embodiment 7 corresponds to the vehicular lamp fitting 10A of Embodiment 2, in which the second lens unit 12A2 is inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 (that is, the camber angle 1 is added) when viewed from the top, and is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction (that is, a slant angle 2 is added) when viewed from the front, in other words, it corresponds to the combination of Embodiment 3 and Embodiment 4 described above.

(305) In other words, the second exit surface 12A2b of Embodiment 7 extends in a direction inclined with respect to the first reference axis AX1 by a predetermined angle when viewed from the top, similarly to Embodiment 3, and is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by the predetermined angle 2 when viewed from the front, similarly to Embodiment 4.

(306) Further, the first exit surface 12A1a of Embodiment 7 is a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction by the predetermined angle 2 when viewed from the front (see FIG. 33), and the surface shape thereof is adjusted so that the low beam light distribution pattern is generally condensed.

(307) Furthermore, the reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c of Embodiment 7 are disposed in an attitude inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by the predetermined angle 2 in the opposite direction of the second exit surface 12A2b and the first exit surface 12A1a when viewed from the front, similarly to Embodiment 4.

(308) According to Embodiment 7, a lens body (combined lens body) having a new appearance in which a camber angle and a slant angle are added, and a vehicular lamp fitting equipped with the lens body (combined lens body), can be provided, and effects the same as Embodiment 3 and Embodiment 4 can be implemented.

(309) The concept camber angle and the slant angle are added described in Embodiment 7, and the concept of improving rotation and suppressing blur, which are generated by adding the camber angle and the slant angle, as described above, are not limited to the vehicular lamp fitting 10A (lamp body 12A) of Embodiment 2, but can be applied to each modification thereof and the like. These concepts can also be applied to the vehicular lamp fitting 10J (lens body 12J) of Embodiment 6, which will be described later.

(310) Now a vehicular lamp fitting 10G, according to a first comparative example, will be described with reference to the drawings.

(311) FIG. 37A is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10G according to the first comparative example, FIG. 37B is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 37C is an example of a light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10G.

(312) As illustrated in FIG. 37A and FIG. 37B, the vehicular lamp fitting 10G according to the first comparative example corresponds to the vehicular lamp fitting 10D of Embodiment 3, in which the second lens unit 12A2 is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction (that is, a slant angle 2 is added) when viewed from the front.

(313) In other words, the first exit surface 12A1a of the first comparative example is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in the vertical direction when viewed from the front, similarly to Embodiment 3. This means that, unlike Embodiment 4, the first exit surface 12A1a of the first comparative example is not configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction by the predetermined angle 2 when viewed from the front.

(314) Further, the reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c of the first comparative example are disposed in a horizontal attitude when viewed from the front, similarly to Embodiment 3. In other words, unlike Embodiment 4, the first exit surface 12A1a of the first comparative example is not disposed in an attitude inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by the predetermined angle 2 in the opposite direction of the second exit surface 12A2b and the first exit surface 12A1a.

(315) As illustrated in FIG. 37C, the light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10G of the first comparative example extends considerably above the horizontal line, which is not suitable for the low beam light distribution pattern.

(316) Now a vehicular lamp fitting 10H according to a second comparative example will be described with reference to the drawings.

(317) FIG. 38A is a side view (of major optical surfaces only) of the vehicular lamp fitting 10H of a second comparative example, FIG. 38B is a top view (of major optical surfaces only) thereof, and FIG. 38C is an example of a light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10H.

(318) As illustrated in FIG. 38A and FIG. 38B, the vehicular lamp fitting 10H of the second comparative example corresponds to the vehicular lamp fitting 10G of the first comparative example, in which the first exit surface 12A1a is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction by a predetermined angle 2 when viewed from the front, similarly to Embodiment 4.

(319) In other words, the first exit surface 12A1a of the second comparative example is configured as a semicircular cylindrical surface extending in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction by a predetermined angle 2 when viewed from the front, similarly to Embodiment 4.

(320) Further, the reflection surface 12b and the shade 12c of the second comparative example are disposed in a horizontal attitude when viewed from the front, similarly to Embodiment 3. In other words, unlike Embodiment 4, the first exit surface 12A1a of the second comparative example is not disposed in an attitude inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by the predetermined angle 2 in the opposite direction of the second exit surface 12A2b and the first exit surface 12A1a.

(321) As illustrated in FIG. 38C, the light distribution pattern formed by the vehicular lamp fitting 10H of second comparative example extends considerably above the horizontal line, which is not suitable for the low beam light distribution pattern.

(322) Next, the vehicle lighting device of the sixth embodiment 10 J (lens body 12 J), will be described with reference to the drawings.

(323) Vehicle lamp 10J of the present embodiment (the lens body 12 J) is constructed as follows.

(324) FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the vehicular lamp 10 J (lens body 12 J), FIG. 40 A is a top view, FIG. 40 B is a front view, FIG. 40 C is a side view. In the example of FIG. 41 A is a light distribution pattern PLO (synthesized light distribution pattern) for a low beam formed by the vehicle lamp 10 J (lens body 12 J), each section partitioned shown in FIG. 41 BFIG. 41 (d-) light pattern PSPOT, PMID, is formed by PWIDE is superimposed.

(325) Lens body 12J of the present embodiment, to form a spot light distribution pattern PSPOT (see FIG. 41 B), the lens body 12A similar to the first optical system of the second embodiment (see FIG. 42 A) in addition to the further (see FIG. 42 B) mid light distribution pattern PMID diffused from the light distribution pattern PSPOT for spot second optical system for forming (FIG. 41 C refer), and, distribution for mid the third optical system for forming an optical pattern PMID than diffuse wide light distribution pattern PWIDE (see FIG. 41d (d-)) and a (FIG. 42 C refer).

(326) Hereinafter, the second focuses on the differences from the vehicle lighting device 10A of embodiment (lens body 12A), the same configuration as the second embodiment of the vehicle lamp 10A (lens body 12A) is the same description thereof is omitted a reference numeral.

(327) FIG. 39, as shown in FIG. 40, the lens body 12J of the present embodiment, the same configuration as the lens body 12A of the second embodiment, the first rear end portion 12A1aa, the front end portion 12A1bb, first rear end portion 12A1aa When placed right and left pair of side 44a between the first front end 12A1bb, 44b, and, the first comprising a first rear end portion 12A1aa and the lower reflecting surface 12b disposed between the first front end 12A1bb a lens portion 12A1, is disposed in front of the first lens portion 12A1, the second rear end portion 12A2aa, a second lens portion 12A2 including a second front end 12A2bb, a first lens unit 12A1 and a second lens portion 12A2 wherein the connecting portion 12A3 linked, further configured as a lens body comprising a first rear end portion of the first lens portion 12A1 12A1aa and the placed top surface 44c between the first front end 12A1bb.

(328) Lens body 12J of the present embodiment, similarly to the above embodiments, injecting a polycarbonate or a transparent resin such as acrylic, cooling, (by injection molding) by solidifying are integrally formed.

(329) FIG. 43 A is a front view of a first rear end portion 12A1aa of the first lens unit 12A1, FIG. 43 B FIG. 43 B-B sectional view of A (schematic view), FIG. 43 C is diagrams 43 C-C sectional view of A (schematic diagram).

(330) FIG. 43 A, as shown in FIG. 43 B, the first rear end portion 12A1aa of the first lens unit 12A1 includes a first entrance surface 12a, and, on both left and right sides of the first entrance surface 12a, the first space disposed so as to surround the left and right sides are pair of left and right entrance surface 42a between the light source 14 arranged in the vicinity of the incident surface 12a and the first incident face 12a, includes 42b. The first rear end 12A1aa, as shown in FIG. 43 A, FIG. 43 C, further, on the upper side of the first entrance surface 12a, the light source 14 and the space between the first entrance surface 12a upward It contains on the entrance surface 42c disposed so as to surround from.

(331) Tip of the lower reflecting surface 12b includes a shade 12c.

(332) The first front end 12A1bb of the first lens unit 12A1, as shown in FIG. 39, semicylindrical first output surface 12A1a extending in the vertical direction, and left and right pair are disposed on both left and right sides of the first output surface 12A1a of the emission surface 46a, and it includes a 46b.

(333) The second rear end portion 12A2aa of the second lens unit 12A2 includes a second entrance surface 12A2a, the second front end 12A2bb of the second lens unit 12A2 includes a second output surface 12A2b.

(334) Second output surface 12A2b includes a semicylindrical region 12A2b3 extending in a horizontal direction, contains, an extension region 12A2b4 that extend upward obliquely rearward from the upper edge of the semi-cylindrical region 12A2b3.

(335) Connecting portion 12A3 includes a first lens portion 12A1 and the second lens portion 12A2, in each of the upper, first forward end of the first lens unit 12A1 12A1bb, second rear end portion of the second lens portion 12A2 12A2aa and consolidated are connected in a state enclosed space S is formed in parts 12A3.

(336) FIG. 42 A is a side view of a first optical system (primary optical surfaces only).

(337) As shown in FIG. 42 A, first entrance surface 12a, the lower reflection surface 12 b (and shade 12c), first output surface 12A1a, second entrance surface 12A2a, and, second output surface 12A2b (the semi-cylindrical region 12A2b3), the light was shielded in part by the shade 12c of the light RaySPOT from the light source 14 incident from the first incident surface 12a inside the first lens portion 12A1, and, the light is internally reflected under the reflection surface 12b but is emitted from the first emission surface 12A1a, further partial region A1 (FIG out from the second incident surface 12A2a enters inside the second lens portion 12A2 second output surface 12A2b (semicylindrical region 12A2b3) by being irradiated forward emitted from the 40 B refer), as shown in FIG. 41 B, the light distribution pattern PSPOT (present invention for spot comprising a cut-off line defined by the shade 12c to the upper edge constitute a first optical system for forming an equivalent) to the first light distribution pattern.

(338) FIG. 42 B is a top view of a second optical system (primary optical surfaces only).

(339) As shown in FIG. 42 B, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b, a pair of left and right side faces 44a, 44b, a pair of left and right exit surface 46a, 46b, second incident surface 12A2a, and, second output surface 12A2b (semicylindrical region 12A2b3) is a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, the first lens portion 12A1 enters the inside right and left pair of side 44a from 42b, the light RayMID from the light source 14 which is internally reflected at 44b, right and left of the emission surface 46a, and emitted from the 46 b, further, the partial area A1 of the second incident surface 12A2a enters inside the second lens portion 12A2 mainly second output surface 12A2b (semicylindrical region 12A2b3) by being emitted forward left and right sides of the region A2, A3 and emitted (FIG. 40 B refer), as shown in FIG. 41 C, is superimposed on the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT, for spot constitute a second optical system for forming a mid light distribution pattern PMID diffused from the light distribution pattern PSPOT.

(340) A pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b, of the light from the light source 14 does not enter the first entrance surface 12a of light (mainly, the light RayMID extending in the lateral direction. FIG. 43 B refer) is a plane that is incident inside the first lens portion 12A1 is refracted, as shown in FIG. 43 B, the surface of the curved convex toward the light source 14 (e.g., free-form surface) It is configured as a.

(341) A pair of left and right side faces 44a, 44b, as shown in FIG. 40 A, when viewed from left and right pair of side accordance from the first front end 12A1bb side of the first lens portion 12A1 toward the first rear end portion 12A1aa side 44a, the spacing between 44b is configured as a surface of a convex curved surface shape toward the outside, which narrows in a tapered shape (e.g., free-form surface). Further, a pair of left and right side faces 44a, 44b, as shown in FIG. 40 C, in side view, on which in accordance with the first front end 12A1bb side of the first lens portion 12A1 toward the first rear end portion 12A1aa side and lower edges is formed as a surface having a shape narrowing tapered.

(342) Incidentally, a pair of left and right sides 44a, 44b are a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, the light RayMID pair of left and right exit surface 46a of the first lens unit 12A1 light source 14 which enters the inside through 42b, internal reflection towards the 46 b (in reflecting surface total reflection) to, metal deposition is not used.

(343) A pair of left and right exit surface 46a, 46b is configured as a surface of a planar shape. Of course, not limited to this, it may be configured as a surface of a curved surface.

(344) The second optical system of the above construction, on the virtual vertical screen, the light distribution pattern PMID for mid shown in FIG. 41 C is formed.

(345) Vertical dimension of the mid-beam light distribution pattern PMID is about 10 degrees in FIG. 41 C, not limited to this, for example, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b of the surface shape (e.g., curvature in the vertical direction) can be freely adjusted by adjusting the.

(346) The position of the upper edge of the mid-beam light distribution pattern PMID is a somewhat of a FIG. 41 C the horizontal line is not limited thereto, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b of the surface shape (e.g., pair it is possible to adjust the incident surface 42a, freely by adjusting the 42b slope of).

(347) Further, the right end and left end of the mid-beam light distribution pattern PMID is extends to the right to about 30 degrees and the left about 30 degrees FIG. 41 C, not limited to this, for example, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b and/or right and left pair of side 44a, 44b (for example, each of the horizontal curvature) can be adjusted freely by adjusting the.

(348) FIG. 42 C is a side view of a third optical system (primary optical surfaces only).

(349) As shown in FIG. 42 C, the upper entrance surface 42c, the upper surface 44c, the coupling portion 12A3, and the second emission surface 12A2b (extension regions 12A2b4) enters from the upper incident surface 42c inside the first lens portion 12A1 the internal reflection at the upper surface 44c on, the connecting portion 12A3 light RayWIDE from the light source 14, which travels through the inside, above the area A4 of the second emission surface 12A2b (each of the regions A1A3. That is, by being irradiated forward emitted from the extended area 12A2b4), as shown in FIG. 41 D, is superimposed on the light distribution pattern for a spot PSPOT and mid light distribution pattern PMID, mid light distribution constitute a third optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide diffused than the pattern PMID.

(350) The upper incident surface 42c, the light (mainly not enter the first entrance surface 12a of the light from the light source 14 extends upward light RayWIDE. FIG. 43 C refer) is a plane that is incident inside the first lens portion 12A1 is refracted, as shown in FIG. 43 C, the surface of the curved convex toward the light source 14 (e.g., free-form surface) It is configured as a.

(351) The upper surface 44c, as shown in FIG. 39, FIG. 42 C, outer in side view, inclined from the first front end 12A1bb side of the first lens portion 12A1 obliquely downward toward the first rear end portion 12A1aa side It is formed as a surface of a curved shape convex toward the. The upper surface 44c, as shown in FIG. 40 A, when viewed, has its left edge and right edge according to the first front end 12A1bb side of the first lens portion 12A1 toward the first rear end portion 12A1aa side It is configured as a surface of a shape that narrows in a tapered shape. Specifically, the upper surface 44c is (to be exact, the reference point F) a light source 14 which is incident from the upper incident surface 42c inside the first lens portion 12A1 light RayWIDE from the relates vertical direction, so as to be parallel light its surface shape is formed. The upper surface 44c is directed to a horizontal direction, in FIG. 42 C, and extends in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface.

(352) It should be noted that the top surface 44c is a reflection surface for internal reflection (total internal reflection) towards the light RayWIDE from the light source 14 incident from above the entrance surface 42c inside the first lens unit 12A1 the second exit surface 12A2b (extension area 12A2b4), metal deposition is not used.

(353) Extension region 12A2b4 is configured as a surface of the extended planar shape from the upper edge of the second output surface 12A2b (semicylindrical region 12A2b3) upward obliquely rearward. Of course, not limited to this, it may be configured as a surface of a curved surface. It should be noted that, with the semi-cylindrical area 12A2b3 the extension area 12A2b4 has been stepped without smoothly connected.

(354) The upper surface 44c, as shown in FIG. 42 C, includes a reflecting surface for overhead sign 44c1 for forming a light distribution pattern POH for overhead sign irradiating the cutoff line above the road signs or the like. Reflecting surface for overhead sign 44C1 is incident from the upper incident surface 42c inside the first lens portion 12A1, is reflected by the reflecting surface for overhead sign 44C1, the light RayOH from the light source 14 travels through internal connection portion 12A3 is, the second by being emitted forward obliquely upward emitted from the exit surface 12A2b (extension regions 12A2b4), as shown in FIG. 41 D, the surface to form a light distribution pattern POH for overhead sign the cutoff line above shape is formed. It should be noted that, for the overhead sign reflecting surface 44c1 can be omitted as appropriate.

(355) As the third optical system, in place of the upper incident surface 42c, connecting portion 12A3, and includes a second output surface 12A2b (extension regions 12A2b4), from the upper incident surface 42c inside the first lens portion 12A1 by light RayWIDE from the incident light source 14 travels through connecting portion 12A3 interior without being internally reflected and irradiated forward emitted directly from the second output surface 12A2b (extension regions 12A2b4), FIG. 41 (d- as shown in), it may be used in an optical system to form a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide.

(356) The third optical system having the above structure, on a virtual vertical screen, the light distribution pattern PWIDE and overhead sign light distribution pattern POH for wide shown in FIG. 41 D are formed.

(357) Vertical dimension of the light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide is about 15 degrees in FIG. 41 (d-), not limited to this, for example, to adjust the surface shape of the upper incident surface 42c (e.g., the vertical curvature) it can be freely adjusted by.

(358) The position of the upper edge of the wide light distribution pattern PWIDE, although along a horizontal line in FIG. 41 D, not limited to this, it is possible to freely adjust by adjusting the inclination of the upper surface 44c.

(359) In the present embodiment, the upper surface 44c, as shown in FIG. 39, the vertical plane including the reference axis AX1 includes a left upper surface 44c2 and the right upper surface 44c3, which is divided into right and left, upper left surface 44c2 and the right upper surface 44c3 of each inclination are different from each other. More specifically, it is inclined to below the right upper surface 44c3 the upper left surface 44c2. Thus, as shown in FIG. 41 D, the light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide, the upper edge, the upper edge of the left side is intended to include a cut-off line of the lower left and right stepped than the right upper edge against vertical line it is (in the case of right-hand traffic). Of course, on the contrary, it may be inclined to the upper left surface 44c2 above the right top surface 44c3. Thus, a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide, upper edge of the left side with respect to the vertical line can be made, including the cutoff line of the higher lateral stepped than the right upper edge (the case of left-hand traffic).

(360) Further, the right end and left end of the wide light distribution pattern PWIDE is extends to the right to about 65 degrees and the left about 65 degrees FIG. 41 D, not limited to this, for example, on the entrance surface 42c (e.g., horizontal it can be adjusted freely by adjusting the direction curvature).

(361) According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the second embodiment, furthermore, it can achieve the following effects.

(362) That is, the first, it is possible to provide a lens body 12J and the vehicle lighting device 10J having the same can be maintained even linear luminous appearance changes viewpoint position. Second, it is possible to provide a uniform light emission (or substantially uniform light emission) lens body appearance can be realized in 12J and vehicle lamp 10J having the same. Third, the efficiency of capturing light from the light source 14 inside the lens body 12J is dramatically improved. Fourth, it is possible to provide a lens body 12J and the vehicle lighting device 10J having the same of appearance with a sense of unity, which extends linearly in a predetermined direction. Fifth, even though the second emission surface 12A2b the ultimate exit surface is a semicylindrical surface 12A2b3 (refracting surface of the semi-cylindrical), arrangement for spots focused in the horizontal and vertical directions it is possible to provide a lens body 12J and vehicle lamp 10J with this it is possible to form the light pattern PSPOT.

(363) Can be the viewpoint position is maintained also linear luminous appearance change is one of the lens body 12J is, the plurality of light distribution patterns that degree of diffusion are different, i.e., a spot light distribution pattern PSPOT (of the present invention corresponds to a first light distribution pattern), a plurality of forming the second corresponds to the light distribution pattern) and a wide light distribution pattern PWIDE mid light distribution pattern PMID (present invention (corresponding to the third light distribution pattern of the present invention) of the optical system, i.e., a first optical system (see FIG. 42 A), by the second optical system (FIG. 42 B refer) and the third optical system that comprises a (FIG. 42 C refer) it is intended. Note that exhibit this effect, a minimum, a first optical system (FIG. 42 A refer) and a second optical system need only comprise a (FIG. 42 B refer), the third optical system (FIG. Referring 42 C) may be omitted as appropriate.

(364) Uniform light emission (or substantially uniform light emission) can be realized the appearance of each of the incident surface, i.e., a first entrance surface 12a, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, the first lens unit from 42b and the upper incident surface 42c a light reflection surface are each from 12A1 light source 14 incident on the inside, i.e., lower reflection surface 12 b, a pair of left and right side faces 44a, is reflected by 44b and upper surface 44c result, the multipoint emission within lens body 12 J (FIG. 44 reference) especially added, each of the reflecting surfaces, i.e., the lower reflection surface 12 b, a pair of left and right side faces 44a, the reflected light from 44b and upper surface 44c, substantially the entire area of second output surface 12A2b is the final output surface be uniformly emitted from, i.e., partial region of the second output surface 12A2b light reflected from the lower reflective surface 12b is the final output surface (semicylindrical region 12A2b3) A1 (FIG. 40B emitted from the reference), a pair of left and right side faces 44a, the reflected light from 44b, primarily the left and right partial region A1 of the second output surface 12A2b is the final output surface (semicylindrical region 12A2b3) both sides of the region A2, A3 emitted (FIG. 40 B refer), the reflected light from the upper surface 44c is mainly the region above the final emitting surface and a second output surface 12A2b (the regions A1A3 A4. That is by exiting the extension region 12A2b4). Note that exhibit this effect, a minimum, a first optical system (FIG. 42 A refer) and a second optical system need only comprise a (FIG. 42 B refer), the third optical system (FIG. Referring 42 C) may be omitted as appropriate.

(365) The efficiency of capturing light from the light source 14 inside the lens body 12J is dramatically improved, each of the incident surface, i.e., a first entrance surface 12a, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b and the upper incident surface 42c is a light source it is arranged so as to surround the 14 (see FIG. 43 AFIG. 43 C) that is due. Note that exhibit this effect, a minimum, the first incident surface 12a and the pair of entrance surface 42a, it is sufficient comprises a 42b, on the entrance surface 42c can be omitted suitably.

(366) Vehicle lamp 10J of the present embodiment (the lens body 12 J) is the above concept, but correspond to those applied to the vehicle lamp 10A of the second embodiment includes a first output surface 12A1a and second output surface 12A2b, not limited to this. That is, the above concept, other than vehicle lighting device 10A of the second embodiment includes a first output surface 12A1a and second output surface 12A2b, for example, to the vehicle lamp 10 of the first embodiment with one exit surface it is also possible to apply.

(367) Can be an appearance with a sense of unity, which extends linearly in a predetermined direction, the second emission surface 12A2b the ultimate exit surface is configured as a semi-cylindrical surface 12A2b3 (refracting surface of the semi-cylindrical) it is due to have.

(368) Despite second output surface 12A2b the ultimate exit surface is a semicylindrical surface 12A2b3 (refracting surface of the semi-cylindrical), the horizontal direction and converging the light distribution pattern PSPOT for spot in the vertical direction can be formed, horizontal direction of the first emission surface of the first lens portion 12A1 12A1a (refracting surface of the semi-cylindrical) is in charge of the condenser primarily mainly a vertical condenser lens body 12J the final exit surface at a second output surface of the second lens portion 12A2 12A2b (refracting surface of the semi-cylindrical) is by the charge. That is due to decomposed the light collecting function.

(369) Note that the first to fifth embodiments and the concept described in the modified examples, for example, concept of camber angle described in the third embodiment, and, generated with the application of the camber angle idea the blur to improve as described above, the fourth concept described in embodiment imparting slant angle, and, the rotating occurring due to the application of the slant angle in the above idea of suppressing, the idea of a fifth to grant the camber angle and slant angle was described in the embodiment, and, above blur and the rotation will occur due to the grant of this camber angle and slant angle, as described above the idea of improving and inhibiting, are of course can be applied to the vehicle lamp 10J of the present embodiment (the lens body 12 J).

(370) Further, in the sixth embodiment, the second optical system (see FIG. 42 B) is configured to form a light distribution pattern PMID for mid, third optical system (see FIG. 42 C) is wide an example is described that is configured to form a use light distribution pattern PWIDE, the present invention is not limited thereto.

(371) For example, on the contrary, the second optical system (FIG. 42 B refer) is configured to form a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide, for the third optical system (see FIG. 42 C) of Mid it may be configured so as to form a light distribution pattern PMID.

(372) For example, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a constituting the second optical system, 42b and/or the right and left pair of side 44a, 44b of the surface shape (e.g., the horizontal direction of curvature) to adjust, as shown in FIG. 47 A it is, a light distribution pattern (e.g., the horizontal direction) can be expanded, by adjusting, as shown in FIG. 47 B, the light distribution pattern can be (e.g., horizontally) to narrow. Accordingly, the pair of left and right entrance surface 42a constituting the second optical system, 42b and/or the right and left pair of side 44a, 44b of the surface shape (e.g., the horizontal direction of curvature) by adjusting the, the light distribution pattern for mid not limited, it is also possible to form a light distribution pattern wide.

(373) Similarly, the surface shape of the upper incident surface 42c constituting the third optical system (e.g., the horizontal direction of curvature) by adjusting the as shown in FIG. 48 A, a light distribution pattern (e.g., in a horizontal direction) it can be expanded, by adjusting, as shown in FIG. 48 B, a light distribution pattern (e.g., can be horizontally) to narrow. Accordingly, the surface shape of the upper incident surface 42b constituting the third optical system (e.g., the horizontal direction of curvature) by adjusting the, not only the light distribution pattern for wide, can be formed a light distribution pattern for mid.

(374) Of course, the second optical system (FIG. 42 B refer) and the third optical system (see FIG. 42 C) are both may be configured so as to form a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide. Conversely, the second optical system (FIG. 42 B refer) and the third optical system (see FIG. 42 C) are both may be configured so as to form a light distribution pattern PMID for mid.

(375) Next, the vehicle lighting device of the seventh embodiment 10K (lens body 12K), will be described with reference to the drawings.

(376) Vehicle lamp 10K of the present embodiment (the lens body 12K) is constructed as follows.

(377) FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the vehicular lamp 10K (lens body 12K), FIG. 50 A is a top view, FIG. 50 B is a front view, FIG. 50 C is a side view. In the example of FIG. 51 A is a light distribution pattern PLO (synthesized light distribution pattern) for a low beam formed by the vehicle lamp 10K (lens body 12K), each section partitioned shown in FIG. 51 BFIG. 51 (d-) light pattern PSPOT, PMID, is formed by PWIDE is superimposed.

(378) Lens body 12K of the present embodiment, similarly to the sixth embodiment, a first optical system for forming a spot light distribution pattern PSPOT (see FIG. 51 B) (FIG. 52 A, FIG. 52 B see), see second optical system for forming a mid light distribution pattern PMID diffused from the light distribution pattern PSPOT for spot reference (FIG. 51 C) (FIG. 53 A), and, from the mid-light distribution pattern PMID diffuse wide light distribution pattern PWIDE (FIG. 51 (d-) refer) third optical system for forming an and a (FIG. 53 B refer).

(379) Hereinafter, the sixth will focus on differences from the vehicle lighting device 10J embodiment (the lens body 12 J), the same configuration as the sixth embodiment of the vehicular lamp 10J (lens body 12 J) is the same description thereof is omitted a reference numeral.

(380) 49, as shown in FIG. 50, the lens body 12K of the present embodiment is a lens body disposed in front of the light source 14, a rear end portion 12Kaa, front end 12Kbb, rear end 12Kaa a front end portion 12Kbb disposed right and left pair of side 44a between, 44b, includes a top surface 44c and a lower surface 44d, (to be exact, the reference point F) a light source 14 which enters the inner lens member 12K light from the front end 12Kbb (by being irradiated forward emitted from the exit surface 12Kb), is constructed as a lens body forming a light distribution pattern PLo low beam (corresponding to a predetermined light distribution pattern of the present invention) that shown in FIG. 51 A. Lens body 12K includes a lower reflecting surface 12b disposed between the rear end portion 12Kaa a front end portion 12Kbb, lens body of bell-shaped narrowed cone shape toward the rear end portion 12Kaa side from the front end 12Kbb side It is configured as a.

(381) Lens body 12K of the present embodiment, similarly to the above embodiments, injecting a polycarbonate or a transparent resin such as acrylic, cooling, (by injection molding) by solidifying are integrally formed.

(382) FIG. 54 A is a front view of the rear end portion 12Kaa of lens body 12K, FIG. 54 B FIG. 54 B-B sectional view of A (schematic view), FIG. 54 C FIG. 54A is C-C in cross-sectional view of a (schematically).

(383) FIG. 54 A, as shown in FIG. 54 B, the rear end 12Kaa of the lens body 12K, the first entrance surface 12a, and, on both left and right sides of the first entrance surface 12a, the light source 14 and the first entrance space disposed so as to surround the left and right sides are pair of left and right entrance surface 42a between the face 12a, includes 42b. The rear end portion 12Kaa, as shown in FIG. 54 A, FIG. 54 C, further, on the upper side of the first entrance surface 12a, surrounding the space between the light source 14 and the first entrance surface 12a from the upper side it includes an incident surface 42c on which are arranged like.

(384) Tip of the lower reflecting surface 12b includes a shade 12c.

(385) Front end 12Kbb of the lens body 12K includes a exit surface 12Kb, the exit surface 12Kb, as shown in FIG. 49, the same exit surface 12d of the first embodiment (convex towards the front convex surface), the arranged pair of exit surface 46a on the right and left sides of the exit face 12d, 46 b, and includes an emitting surface 12d and the pair of output surface 46a, outgoing surface 46c disposed above the 46b. Emitting surface 12d and the pair of left and right exit surface 46a, 46 b (and the exit surface 46c) and via the connecting surface 46d surrounding the exit face 12d (surface optical function is not intended) step without smoothly It is connected.

(386) FIG. 52 A is a side view of the first optical system, FIG. 52 B is an enlarged side view.

(387) FIG. 52 A, as shown in FIG. 52 B, the first incident surface 12a, the lower reflection surface 12 b (and shade 12c) and the exit surface 12Kb is incident from the first incident surface 12a to the inner lens member 12K light was shielded in part by the shade 12c of the light RaySPOT from the light source 14, and the light that is internally reflected under the reflection surface 12b is a part of the exit face 12Kb region A1 (exit plane 12d. By being irradiated forward emitted from FIG. 50 B refer), as shown in FIG. 51 B, the light distribution pattern PSPOT (present for spots including the cut-off line defined by the shade 12c to the upper edge constitute a first optical system for forming an equivalent) to the first light distribution pattern of the invention.

(388) FIG. 53 A is a top view of a second optical system.

(389) As shown in FIG. 53 A, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b, a pair of left and right side faces 44a, 44b, and the exit surface 12Kb pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, entering from 42b inside the lens body 12K light RayMID from the left and right pair of side 44a, a light source 14 which is internally reflected at 44b on the mainly region of the left and right sides of a part A1 of the exit surface 12Kb A2, A3 (pair of exit surface 46a, 46 b. By being irradiated forward emitted from FIG. 50 B refer), as shown in FIG. 51 C, is superimposed on the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid diffused from the light distribution pattern PSPOT for spot constitute a second optical system for forming a use light distribution pattern PMID.

(390) A pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b, of the light from the light source 14 does not enter the first entrance surface 12a of light (mainly, the light RayMID extending in the lateral direction. FIG. 54 B refer) is a plane that is incident to the inner lens member 12K is refracted structure, as shown in FIG. 54 B, the surface of the curved convex toward the light source 14 (e.g., a free-form surface) It is.

(391) A pair of left and right side faces 44a, 44b, as shown in FIG. 50 A, when viewed from left and right pair of side 44a toward the rear end portion 12Kaa side from the front end 12Kbb side, the spacing between 44b is tapered surface of the convex curved surface shape toward the outside narrowed (for example, free-form surface) is constructed as a. Shape also, the pair of left and right side surfaces 44a, 44b, as shown in FIG. 50 C, which in side view, its upper and lower edges towards the rear end portion 12Kaa side from the front end 12Kbb side narrows in a tapered shape It is configured as a surface.

(392) Incidentally, a pair of left and right sides 44a, 44b are a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, the light RayMID pair from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens member 12K from 42b exit surface 46a, toward the 46b internal reflection (total internal reflection) a reflective surface for, not used in metal deposition.

(393) A pair of left and right exit surface 46a, 46b is configured as a surface of a planar shape. Of course, not limited to this, it may be configured as a surface of a curved surface.

(394) The second optical system configured as described above, on a virtual vertical screen, the light distribution pattern PMID for mid shown in FIG. 51 C is formed.

(395) Vertical dimension of the mid-beam light distribution pattern PMID is approximately 15 degrees in FIG. 51 C, not limited to this, for example, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b of the surface shape (e.g., curvature in the vertical direction) can be freely adjusted by adjusting the.

(396) The position of the upper edge of the mid-beam light distribution pattern PMID is along the horizontal line in FIG. 51 C, is not limited thereto, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b of the surface shape (e.g., a pair of left and right incident surface 42a, can be freely adjusted by adjusting the 42b slope of).

(397) Further, the right end and left end of the mid-beam light distribution pattern PMID is extends to the right to about 55 degrees and the left about 55 degrees FIG. 51 C, not limited to this, for example, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b and/or right and left pair of side 44a, 44b (for example, each of the horizontal curvature) can be adjusted freely by adjusting the.

(398) FIG. 53 B is a side view of a third optical system.

(399) As shown in FIG. 53 B, the upper entrance surface 42c, the upper surface 44c, and the exit surface 12Kb, the light from the light source 14 which is internally reflected at the upper surface 44c is incident from the upper incident surface 42c in the inner lens member 12K RayWIDE is, primarily emitting surface area of the left and right sides of the part of the region A1 and some area A1 of the 12Kb A2, A3 each of the upper side of the area A4 (exit surface 46c. By being irradiated forward emitted from FIG. 50 B refer), as shown in FIG. 51 (d-), it is superimposed on the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT and mid light distribution pattern PMID, distribution for Mid constitute a third optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide that has diffused from the light pattern PMID.

(400) The upper incident surface 42c, the light (mainly not enter the first entrance surface 12a of the light from the light source 14 extends upward light RayWIDE. In terms FIG. 54 C refer) enters inside the lens body 12K is refracted structure, as shown in FIG. 54 C, the surface of the curved convex toward the light source 14 (e.g., a free-form surface) It is.

(401) The upper surface 44c is 49, as shown in FIG. 50 C, in side view, from the front end 12Kbb side of the lens body 12K convex outwardly inclined obliquely downward toward the rear end portion 12Kaa side surfaces It is configured as a surface shape. The upper surface 44c, as shown in FIG. 50 A, when viewed from the front end 12Kbb side of the lens body 12K is the left edge and right edge toward the rear end portion 12Kaa side shape narrows in a tapered shape It is configured as a surface. Specifically, the upper surface 44c is (to be exact, the reference point F) a light source 14 which is incident from the upper incident surface 42c in the inner lens member 12K that surface so that light RayWIDE is relates to the vertical direction, the collimated light from shape is formed. The upper surface 44c is directed to a horizontal direction, in FIG. 50 C, and extends in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface.

(402) Incidentally, the upper surface 44c is a reflecting surface for internal reflection towards the light RayWIDE from the light source 14 which is incident from the upper incident surface 42c in the inner lens member 12K to the exit surface 46c (total reflection), metal deposition is not used.

(403) Exit surface 46c is configured as a surface of a planar shape. Of course, not limited to this, it may be configured as a surface of a curved surface.

(404) As the third optical system, in place of the upper incident surface 42c, and includes an emitting surface 46c, the light RayWIDE from the light source 14 which is incident from the upper incident surface 42c inside the lens body 12K is internally reflected by being irradiated forward emitted directly from without exit surface 46c that, as shown in FIG. 51 D, may be used an optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide.

(405) The third optical system having the above structure, on a virtual vertical screen, the light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide shown in FIG. 51 D are formed.

(406) Vertical dimension of the light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide is about 15 degrees in FIG. 51 (d-), not limited to this, for example, to adjust the surface shape of the upper incident surface 42c (e.g., the vertical curvature) it can be freely adjusted by.

(407) The position of the upper edge of the wide light distribution pattern PWIDE, although substantially along a horizontal line in FIG. 51 D, not limited to this, it is possible to freely adjust by adjusting the inclination of the upper surface 44c.

(408) In the present embodiment, the upper surface 44c, as shown in FIG. 49, the vertical plane including the reference axis AX1 includes a left upper surface 44c2 and the right upper surface 44c3, which is divided into right and left, upper left surface 44c2 and the right upper surface 44c3 of each inclination are different from each other. More specifically, it is inclined to below the right upper surface 44c3 the upper left surface 44c2. Thus, as shown in FIG. 51 D, the light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide, the upper edge, the upper edge of the left side is intended to include a cut-off line of the lower left and right stepped than the right upper edge against vertical line it is (in the case of right-hand traffic). Of course, on the contrary, it may be inclined to the upper left surface 44c2 above the right top surface 44c3. Thus, a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide, upper edge of the left side with respect to the vertical line can be made, including the cutoff line of the higher lateral stepped than the right upper edge (the case of left-hand traffic).

(409) Further, the right end and left end of the wide light distribution pattern PWIDE is extends to the right to about 60 degrees and the left about 60 degrees FIG. 51 D, not limited to this, for example, on the entrance surface 42c (e.g., horizontal it can be adjusted freely by adjusting the direction curvature).

(410) Next, a description will be given of the appearance of the light source 14 non-lighting at the time of the lens body 12K.

(411) Lens body 12K of the present embodiment, the light source 14 non-lit, when viewed from multiple directions, the inside though lens body becomes appearance with sparkling feeling as if they were emitted.

(412) This, external light incident from the emission surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12K (e.g., sunlight) that is in the internal reflection (total internal reflection) easily satisfies the condition that constitutes inside the lens body 12K, specifically a lens body 12K is configured as a lens body of bell-shaped narrowed cone shape toward the rear end portion 12Kaa side from the front end 12Kbb side (FIG. 50 A, FIG. 50 C refer to) the (in addition to the first condition), the incident surface 12a, 42a, 42b, at least one of 42c, when viewed and/or side view, V-shape open towards the front end portion 12Kbb side (or the V-shaped some) is due to constitute a reference (FIG. 55 AFIG. 55 C in the code C1C4 is shown in a dashed circle (bold line)) the (second condition). Note that the first condition, but if they meet at least one of the conditions in the second condition.

(413) For example, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b is a side view, constitute a V-shape open towards the front end portion 12Kbb side (FIG. 55 A, the code C1 in FIG. 55 C within the circle of the dotted line shown (thick line) reference). Further, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b is a top view, constitutes a part of a V-shape open towards the front end portion 12Kbb side (dotted line indicated by the reference numeral C2 in FIG. 55 B within the circle (thick line) reference). The first entrance surface 12a is a top view, constitute a V-shape open towards the front end portion 12Kbb side (FIG. 55 B in the code C3 is shown in a dashed circle (bold line) see). The upper incident surface 42c is a side view, a front end 12Kbb constitutes a part of a V-shape open towards the side (FIG. 55 C the dotted line in the circle indicated by the reference numeral C4 in (thick line) reference).

(414) Above as in, in addition to the lens body 12K is configured as a lens body of bell shape narrowed on the rear end portion 12Kaa side conical towards the front end 12Kbb side, the incident surface 12a, 42a, 42b, at least one of the 42c, when viewed and/or side view, the result constituting the V-shape open towards the front end portion 12Kbb side (or a portion of the V-shape), the lens body from the emission surface 12Kb external light incident inside 12K (e.g., sunlight) repeats internal reflection (total internal reflection) inside the lens body 12K (the V-shaped portion, etc.), most of which various directions again from the exit surface 12Kb emitted to.

(415) For example, the external light RayCC shown in FIG. 56 A, FIG. 56 B is incident from the exit surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12K, the left side surface 44a, an internal reflection in this order on the right side 44b (total reflection) after being emits again from exit surface 12Kb. Further, for example, external light RayDD shown in FIG. 56 A, FIG. 56 C is incident from the exit surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12K, the lower surface 44d, the upper incident surface 42c, internal reflection in this order on the upper surface 44c (which has been totally reflected), emitted again from the exit surface 12Kb.

(416) Actual driving environment (for example, running under the environment in broad daylight), the above-mentioned external light RayCC, not limited to RayDD, outside light from any direction (for example, sunlight) is incident on the internal lens body 12K, the lens internal reflection in the body 12K internal (the V-shaped portion, etc.) repeatedly (total reflection), most of which is emitted in various directions from again exit surface 12Kb (see FIG. 57). As a result, the lens member 12K is in the light source 14 non-lit, when viewed from multiple directions, the inside though lens body becomes appearance with sparkling feeling as if they were emitted. FIG. 57 is a light source 50 which resemble the ambient light in front of the lens body 12K are arranged, represent the exit surface 12Kb optical path where light is traced from the light source 50 which enters the inner lens member 12K (the simulation result).

(417) According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the sixth embodiment, further, it can achieve the following effects.

(418) That is, the appearance does not become monotonous lens body 12K and the vehicle lighting device 10K provided with the same, in particular, in the light source 14 non-lit, when viewed from multiple directions, such as if as if the lens body interior is emitting light it is possible to provide a vehicle lamp 10K that glitter feeling with a lens body 12K and this becomes a great looking. As a result, the visibility of the light source 14 non-lit (vehicular lamp 10K, thus, this is the visibility of the vehicle mounted) can be increased.

(419) Its appearance that does not become monotonous, the lens body 12K is not a conventional simple plano-convex lens, the rear end portion 12Kaa the front end portion and a pair of side surfaces 44a disposed between 12bb, 44b, upper face 44c and the lower surface enclosed cross section 44d is due be configured as a lens having a rectangular shape.

(420) In addition, in the light source 14 non-lighting at the time, when viewed from multiple directions, as if the lens body inside becomes the appearance that glitter feeling as if they emit light, lens body 12K is from the front end 12Kbb side in addition to towards the rear end portion 12Kaa side it is configured to narrow the cone-like, at least one of the incident surface, when viewed and/or side view, open towards the front end 12Kbb side results that are part of a V-shaped or V-shaped, external light incident from the emission surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12K (e.g., sunlight) is, the lens body 12K internal (the V-shaped portion or the like) repeated internal reflection (total internal reflection) in the most part is by emitted in various directions from the re-emitting surface 12Kb.

(421) Incidentally, the first to sixth embodiments and the concept described in the modified examples, for example, concept of decomposing a condensing function described in the second embodiment, camber described in the third embodiment idea of imparting angular, and the concept of the blurring which occurs due to the application of the camber angle to improve as described above, the idea described in the fourth embodiment, imparting slant angle, and, idea the rotation that occurs due to the application of the slant angle of suppressing as described above, the idea described in the fifth embodiment the camber angle and slant angle, and, the camber angle and slant the blur and the rotation along with occur on the grant of the corner, the idea of improvement and to suppress in the manner described above, it is of course can be applied to the vehicle lamp 10K of the present embodiment (lens body 12K).

(422) Next, the lens bodies 12L which is a first modification of the lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

(423) FIG. 58 A is a longitudinal sectional view showing an optical path in which light is traced from a light source 14 which enters the inner lens member 12K of the seventh embodiment, FIG. 58 B is a perspective view of a lens body 12L of the modification.

(424) The present inventors have confirmed by simulation, as shown in FIG. 58 A, in the above-described lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment, the incident surface 12a incident, 42a, 42b, the inner lens member 12K from 42c the light from the light source 14 that is not incident on the lower surface 44d, i.e., lower surface 44d each light distribution pattern PSPOT, PMID, be a region that is not used in formation of PWIDE was found.

(425) Lens body 12L of this modification, as shown in FIG. 58 B, the respective light distribution patterns PSPOT, PMID, a plurality of lens cut LC square pyramid shape on the lower surface 44d not used for formation of PWIDE (e.g., elevation plane angle 30, which corresponds to that imparted pitch 5 mm, the mountain height 3 mm). Otherwise, the same configuration as the lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment. Incidentally, each of the lens cut LC is the same size, may be identical in shape, a different size may be different shapes. Further, it may be arranged aligned with, or may be randomly arranged.

(426) According to this modification, in addition to the effects of the seventh embodiment, furthermore, it can achieve the following effects.

(427) That is, in the light source 14 non-lit, when viewed from multiple directions, as if the lens body interior is looking with a sparkling feeling as if they were light-emitting lens body 12L and the vehicle lighting device equipped with this 10L it can be provided. As a result, the visibility of the light source 14 non-lit (vehicle lamp 10L, and hence, this is the visibility of the vehicle mounted) can be increased.

(428) This, external light incident from the emission surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12L (e.g., sunlight) is various inside the lens body 12L (more lenses of quadrangular pyramid granted to the lower surface 44d cut LC, etc.) is by emitted in various directions from the re-emitting surface 12Kb is internally reflected in the direction (total reflection).

(429) The present inventors have found that in order to confirm this effect, the lens body of the lens body 12L and Comparative Examples of the present modified example (lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment) was actually manufactured, each of the emission surface 12Kb, luminance total (trade name: Prometric) was used.

(430) FIG. 59 AFIG. 59 C is a diagram showing the measurement result of the emission surface 12Kb of the lens body 12L of the present modified example (luminance distribution), FIG. 59DFIG. 59 F is a comparative example lens body (seventh embodiment of the lens body 12K) of the exit surface 12Kb measurements is a diagram representing the (luminance distribution). The numerical values in the figures represents a measurement position. For example, the left and right in FIG. 59 A 0, the upper and lower 0 left and right 0 measurement positions of the measurement results shown in FIG. 4 (luminance distribution) with respect to the center of the exit surface 12Kb, vertical 0 (i.e., It represents that it is a position directly in front). The same applies to other figures. Then, in each figure, black parts indicate that a relatively low luminance, the white portion represents that a relatively high brightness.

(431) FIG. 59 Referring to AFIG. 59 F, toward the lens body 12L of this modification having the lower surface 44d having a plurality of lens cut LC is applied in a quadrangular pyramid shape, compared with a flat lower surface 44d examples lens body of than (lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment), that the white portion and the black portion over the exit surface 12Kb whole area is divided clearly, that is, is more of the lens body 12L of the present modification, comparative example from body of the lens (lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment), in the light source 14 non-lit, when viewed from multiple directions, it is seen that a great looking though a as if it emits light sparkling sensitive.

(432) Incidentally, the lower surface 44d are four not limited to the plane including the plurality of lens cut LC pyramidal, internal reflection is incident from the exit surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12L in the external light various directions to reach the lower surface 44d (only needs to be configured as a surface which is again emitted from the emission surface 12Kb is totally reflected). For example, the lower face 44d is four to pyramid may be configured as a surface including a plurality of lens cut of polygonal pyramid shape other than the shape, constructed as a plane including the embossed surface or cut surface comprising a plurality of minute irregularities otherwise it may be.

(433) Next, a second modification is an example lens body 12M of the lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

(434) FIG. 60 A is a cross sectional view representing an optical path in which light traced from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens member 12K of the seventh embodiment, FIG. 60 B is a perspective view of a lens body 12M of the modification.

(435) The present inventors have confirmed by simulation, as shown in FIG. 60 A, in the above-described lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment, the incident surface 12a incident, 42a, 42b, the inner lens member 12K from 42c the light from the light source 14 that has a pair of left and right side surfaces 44a, extending from the front edge of 44b forward (e.g., the reference axis extending in a direction parallel to AX 1) has been extended areas 44Aa, it does not enter the 44bb, i.e., extension region 44Aa, 44bb each light distribution pattern PSPOT, PMID, be a region that is not used in formation of PWIDE was found.

(436) Lens body 12M of this modification, as shown in FIG. 60 B, the respective light distribution patterns PSPOT, PMID, a plurality of lenses of quadrangular pyramid in the extension region 44aa and/or 44bb not used for the formation of PWIDE cut LC correspond to those granted (for example, elevation surface angle of 30, pitch 5 mm, crest height 3 mm) a. Otherwise, the same configuration as the lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment. Incidentally, each of the lens cut LC is the same size, may be identical in shape, a different size may be different shapes. Further, it may be arranged aligned with, or may be randomly arranged.

(437) According to this modification, in addition to the effects of the seventh embodiment, furthermore, it can achieve the following effects.

(438) That is, in the light source 14 non-lit, when viewed from multiple directions, as if the lens body interior is looking with a sparkling feeling as if they were light-emitting lens body 12M and a vehicular lamp provided with the same 10M it can be provided. As a result, the visibility of the light source 14 non-lit (vehicular lamp 10M, in turn, this is the visibility of the vehicle mounted) can be increased.

(439) This, external light incident from the emission surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12M (e.g., sunlight) is the lens body 12M internal (extension area 44Aa, a plurality of lens cut LC like quadrangular pyramid, issued to 44bb) is by emitted in various directions from the re-emitting surface 12Kb is internally reflected (total reflection) in various directions in.

(440) Incidentally, the extension region 44Aa, 44bb are four not limited to the plane including the plurality of lens cut LC pyramidal, the extension region 44Aa is incident from the exit surface 12Kb inside the lens body 12M, various external light reaching the 44bb only needs to be configured as a surface which is again emitted from the emission surface 12Kb is the direction on the inner surface reflections (total internal reflection). For example, the extension region 44Aa, 44bb includes four to pyramid may be configured as a surface including a plurality of lens cut of polygonal pyramid shape other than the shape, embossed surface or cut surface comprising a plurality of minute irregularities otherwise it may be configured as a surface.

(441) FIG. 61 A is a perspective view of a lens conjugate 16L linked a plurality of lens body 12L is a first modification of the lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment.

(442) As shown in FIG. 61 A, a lens conjugate 16L includes a plurality of lens body 12L. Lens conjugate 16L (plurality of lens bodies 12L) is in a mold, injecting a polycarbonate or a transparent resin such as acrylic, cooling, are integrally molded (injection molding) by solidifying. A plurality of lens body 12L each exit surface 12Kb is disposed in a line in the horizontal direction in a state adjacent to each other, constitute the exit surface groups of looking with a sense of unity extending horizontally in a line.

(443) By using the lens conjugate 16L having the above structure, it is possible to construct a vehicle lamp appearance with a sense of unity extending horizontally in a line. The lens conjugate 16L is molded in a state of physical separation of a plurality of lens body 12L, it may be constructed by concatenating (held) by a holding member such as a lens holder (not shown).

(444) As shown in FIG. 61 B, may be pressurized meat 16La the gaps between each of the lens body 12L. For example, the lower surface 44d may block the gap between the lens body 12L each extend, or in the gaps between each of the lens body 12L, physically shaped additional lens unit as a separate member (the lower surface 44d similar additional lens part including the lower surface) may be arranged. Thus, even external light incident from this, the lens bodies 12L inside the bottom surface 44d (i.e., a plurality of lens cut LC) again from the exit surface 12Kb is internally reflected (total reflection) in different directions by the action of the results so that the emitted, it is possible to further enhance the above-mentioned sparkling feeling.

(445) Next, the vehicle lighting device of the eighth embodiment 10 N (lens body 12N), will be described with reference to the drawings.

(446) Vehicle lamp 10N of the present embodiment (the lens body 12N) is configured as follows.

(447) FIG. 62 is a perspective view of the vehicular lamp 10 N (lens body 12N), FIG. 63 A is a top view, FIG. 63 B is a front view, FIG. 63 C is a side view. In the example of FIG. 64 A is a light distribution pattern PLO (synthesized light distribution pattern) for a low beam formed by the vehicle lamp 10 N (lens body 12N), each section partitioned shown in FIG. 64 BFIG. 64 E light pattern PSPOT, PMID_L, PMID_R, is formed by PWIDE is superimposed.

(448) Vehicle lamp 10N of the present embodiment (the lens body 12N), relative to the sixth embodiment of the vehicular lamp 10J shown in FIG. 39 (the lens body 12 J), a pair of right and left second lower reflecting surfaces 48a, 48b (and shade 48c, which corresponds to what you add the 48d). Then, the final emission surface of the lens body 12N of the present embodiment (second output surface 12A2b), unlike the sixth embodiment, as the slant angle and/or the surface of the semi-cylindrical camber angle is imparted (cylindrical surface) It is configured. Further, the upper surface 44Nc of the present embodiment differs from the sixth embodiment, the light from the light source 14 which is incident from the upper incident surface 42c inside the lens body 12N functions as emission surface for emitting. Otherwise, the same configuration as the sixth embodiment of the vehicular lamp 10 J (lens body 12 J).

(449) The present inventors have confirmed by simulation, in the sixth embodiment of the vehicular lamp 10 J (lens body 12J), if the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12J with respect to the light source 14 was deviated from the design value, FIG. 70 (as shown in a), the glare was found to occur in mid-light distribution pattern PMID. FIG. 70 A, the light source 14 (light emitting surface) in 1 mm square, the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12J with respect to the light source 14 occurs when was +0.2 mm deviation in Y-direction (vertical direction) from the design value It represents the glare.

(450) If the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12J with respect to the light source 14 is designed value, as shown in FIG. 70 B, not glare occurs mid light distribution pattern PMID.

(451) However, when actually fabricating a vehicle lamp, the assembly due to the influence of errors such as, it is difficult to a relative positional relationship between the lens body 12J with respect to the light source 14 to the designed value, the relative of the lens body 12J with respect to the light source 14 Do positional relationship is deviated from the design value.

(452) The present inventor, due to deviate from the relative positional relationship is a design value of the lens body 12J with respect to the light source 14 as described above, to suppress the glare is produced in mid-light distribution pattern PMID, extensive Study result, apart from the first lower reflection surface 12b constituting the first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PSPOT for spots (and shade 12c), a second optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PMID for mid to left and right pair of second lower reflecting surface 48a on, 48b (and shade 48c, 48d) by adding a light that causes the glare is light distribution below the cut-off line, to the mid-light distribution pattern PMID glare found that it is possible to suppress occurrence.

(453) Based on this finding, the vehicle lamp 10 N (lens body 12N) of the present embodiment, the first lower reflection surface 12 b (and the shade 12c) separate from, the second lower reflecting surface of the pair arranged on the left and right sides 48a, and includes a 48b (and shade 48c, 48d).

(454) Hereinafter, the differences from the sixth embodiment of the vehicular lamp 10 J (lens body 12 J) will be mainly described, the same reference numerals are given to the same configuration as the sixth embodiment of the vehicular lamp 10 J (lens body 12 J) denoted by the description thereof is omitted.

(455) Lens body 12N of the present embodiment, similarly to the sixth embodiment, a first optical system for forming a spot light distribution pattern PSPOT (see FIG. 64 B) in addition to (FIG. 42 A refer), further, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L diffused from the light distribution pattern PSPOT for spot, PMID_R (FIG. 64 C, FIG. 64 (d-) refer) second optical system for forming (see FIG. 66, FIG. 67), and, and a wide light distribution and diffusion from the light distribution pattern PMID for mid pattern PWIDE (FIG. 64 E reference) third optical system for forming a (see FIG. 69).

(456) Lens body 12N of the present embodiment is a lens body disposed in front of the light source 14, FIG. 62, as shown in FIG. 63, the rear end, a front end, between the rear end and the front end disposed right and left pair of side 44a, comprises 44b and top 44Nc, light from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens member 12N is, is irradiated forward emitted from the front end (second output surface 12A2b) and top 44Nc the Rukoto, as shown in FIG. 64 A, is configured as a lens body forming a light distribution pattern for low beam PLo comprising a cut-off line to the upper edge.

(457) Specifically, the lens body 12N has a first rear end portion 12A1aa, first forward end 12A1bb, first rear end portion 12A1aa and arranged left and right pair of side 44a between the first front end 12A1bb, 44b, and, a first lens unit 12A1 including a first lower reflecting surface 12b disposed between the first rear end portion 12A1aa a first front end 12A1bb, is disposed in front of the first lens unit 12A1, after the second end 12A2aa, a second lens portion 12A2 including a second front end 12A2bb, a first lens unit 12A1 includes a connecting portion 12A3 which connects the second lens portion 12A2, further, after the first of the first lens portion 12A1 end 12A1aa and disposed upper surface 44Nc between the second front end 12A2bb of the second lens portion 12A2, and, between the first rear end portion 12A1aa a first front end 12A1bb of the first lens unit 12A1aa and, the second lower reflecting surface 48a of the pair which is disposed on the left and right sides of the first lower reflection surface 12 b, which is configured as a lens comprising a 48b.

(458) Lens body 12N of the present embodiment, similarly to the above embodiments, injecting a polycarbonate or a transparent resin such as acrylic, cooling, (by injection molding) by solidifying are integrally formed.

(459) FIG. 65 A is a front view of a first rear end portion 12A1aa of the first lens unit 12A1, FIG. 65 B is a diagram 65 B-B sectional view of A (schematic diagram). Incidentally, the A-the A sectional view in FIG. 65 A (schematic diagrams) is the same as FIG. 43 B.

(460) FIG. 43, as shown in FIG. 65 A, first rear end portion 12A1aa of the first lens unit 12A1 includes a first entrance surface 12a, and, on both left and right sides of the first entrance surface 12a, a first entrance surface 12a light source 14 and the spatial arrangement so as to surround the left and right sides are pair of left and right entrance surface 42a between the first entrance surface 12a which is arranged in the vicinity includes 42b. The first rear end 12A1aa, as shown in FIG. 65 A, FIG. 65 B, further, on the upper side of the first entrance surface 12a, the light source 14 and the space between the first entrance surface 12a upward It contains on the entrance surface 42c disposed so as to surround from.

(461) The distal end of the first lower reflection surface 12b includes a shade 12c.

(462) The first front end 12A1bb of the first lens unit 12A1 is, as shown in FIG. 62, the first semi-cylindrical surface in the vertical direction or a substantially first output surface of the semi-cylindrical vertically extending 12A1a (present invention equivalent), and includes first output surface 12A1a right and left sides in the arranged a pair of left and right exit surface 46a, 46b (corresponding to a pair of left and right middle exit surface of the present invention).

(463) The second rear end portion 12A2aa of the second lens unit 12A2 includes a second entrance surface 12A2a (corresponding to an intermediate plane of incidence of the present invention), the second front end 12A2bb of the second lens portion 12A2 and the second emission surface 12A2b contains a (corresponding to a final output surface of the present invention).

(464) The final exit surface (second output surface 12A2b), unlike the sixth embodiment, the slant angle and/or camber angle is formed as a surface of a semi-cylindrical granted. Along with this, the cylindrical axis of the final exit surface (second output surface 12A2b) (and focal line F12A2b) is tilted relative to horizontal. Slant angle and/or camber angle is imparted by the technique described in the third to fifth embodiments and the like. Then, the above blurring and rotation occurring due to the application of slant angle and/or camber angle is improved and suppressed by the technique described in the third to fifth embodiments and the like.

(465) Of course, not limited to this, the final exit surface (second output surface 12A2b) is slant angle and/or camber angle is not given, i.e., semicircular cylindrical axis (and focal line F12A2b) is extending in the horizontal direction it may be configured as a columnar surface.

(466) Connecting portion 12A3 includes a first lens portion 12A1 and the second lens portion 12A2, in each of the upper, first forward end of the first lens unit 12A1 12A1bb, second rear end portion of the second lens portion 12A2 12A2aa and consolidated are connected in a state enclosed space S is formed in parts 12A3.

(467) FIG. 42 A, the first incident surface 12a, the first lower reflection surface 12 b (and shade 12c), a first semi-cylindrical surface (first exit surface 12A1a), an intermediate incidence surface (second incident surface 12A2a) and final output surface (second output surface 12A2b) are light blocking part by the shade 12c of the first lower reflection surface 12b of the light from the light source 14 incident from the first incident surface 12a to the inner lens member 12N light and light that is internally reflected by the first lower reflecting surface 12b is emitted from the first semicylindrical surface (first output surface 12A1a) the lens body 12N external, further, an intermediate incidence surface (second incident from the incident surface 12A2a) inside the lens body 12N emitted from the final exit surface (second output surface 12A2b), by being irradiated forward, is defined in the upper end edge by the shade 12c of the first lower reflection surface 12b constitute a first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PSPOT for spot (corresponding to the light converging pattern of the present invention) comprising a cut-off line that.

(468) The first optical system configured as described above, onto a virtual vertical screen, the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT shown in FIG. 64 B is formed.

(469) FIG. 66 is a cross-sectional view of a second optical system (primary optical surfaces only), FIG. 67 is a longitudinal sectional view (main optical surfaces only).

(470) FIG. 66, as shown in FIG. 67, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b, a pair of left and right side faces 44a, 44b, a pair of right and left second lower reflecting surfaces 48a, 48b (and the shade 48c, 48d), a pair of left and right intermediate exit surface (pair of exit surface 46a, 46 b), an intermediate incidence surface (second incident surface 12A2a) and final output surface (second output surface 12A2b) is a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, the inner lens element 12N from 42b incident to the right and left pair of side 44a, left and right pair of second lower reflecting surface 48a of the light from the light source 14 which is internally reflected at 44b, 48b of the shade 48c, the part shaded in light and left-right pair by 48d 2 lower reflecting surface 48a, the light that is internally reflected by 48b is emitted from the pair of left and right intermediate exit surface (pair of exit surface 46a, 46 b) to the lens body 12N external, further, an intermediate incidence surface (second incident surface 12A2a) after entering the inner lens member 12N emitted from the final exit surface (second output surface 12A2b), by being irradiated forward, as shown in FIG. 64 C, FIG. 64 (d-), spot configuration is superimposed on the use light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L that has diffused from the light distribution pattern PSPOT for the spot, (the first corresponds to the diffusion pattern of the present invention) and a second optical system of the left and right pair to form a PMID_R doing.

(471) A pair of right and left second lower reflecting surfaces 48a, 48b are a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, a reflecting surface of a planar shape extending forward from the lower edge of 42b (or the lower edge vicinity). FIG. 68 is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the second lower reflecting surface 48a disposed on the left side (and shade 48c). A pair of right and left second lower reflecting surfaces 48a, 48b of the tip, the shade 48c, contain 48d.

(472) A pair of right and left second lower reflecting surfaces 48a, 48b is, the pair of right and left second lower reflecting surface 48a of the light from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens member 12N, the light incident on the 48b by the reflecting surface for total reflection, metal deposition is not used. A pair of right and left second lower reflecting surface 48a of the light from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens member 12N, the light incident on 48b, the pair of right and left second lower reflecting surface 48a, it is internally reflected at 48b final exit toward the surface (the second exit surface 12A2b), toward the road surface direction is refracted in the final exit surface (the second exit surface 12A2b). That is, the pair of right and left second lower reflecting surface 48a, the reflected light is internally reflected by 48b is shaped to be superimposed on the light distribution pattern below the cut-off line is folded back border the cut-off line. Thus, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, PMID_R (FIG. 64 C, FIG. 64 (d-) refer) is cut-off line to the upper edge of the formed.

(473) Shade 48c, the position of the 48d to mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, the cutoff line of PMID_R is suitably formed is different depending on conditions such as the slant angle and/or camber angle, it is difficult to represent in a concrete numerical values is there.

(474) However, for example, mid each time using a predetermined simulation software, the shade for focal line F12A2b final exit surface (second output surface 12A2b) (see FIG. 66) 48c, to change gradually the position of the 48d, changing use the light distribution pattern PMID_L, by checking the PMID_R, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, shade 48c to cut-off line of PMID_R is properly formed, it is possible to find the position of 48d.

(475) A pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b, of the light from the light source 14 does not enter the first entrance surface 12a of light (mainly, the light RayMID extending in the lateral direction. FIG. 43 B refer) is a plane that is incident inside the first lens portion 12A1 is refracted, as shown in FIG. 43 B, the surface of the curved convex toward the light source 14 (e.g., free-form surface) It is configured as a.

(476) Specifically, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, 42b mainly includes the pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, a pair of left and right incident from 42b inside the lens body 12N side 44a, a light source 14 which is internally reflected at 44b light from the relates vertical direction, the pair of right and left second lower reflecting surface 48a, shade 48b 48c, and condensed near 48d (see FIG. 67), and relates to a horizontal direction, the diffusion (see FIG. 66) so to, the surface shape is configured.

(477) For example, in FIG. 66, left entrance surface 42a, the light from the light source 14 which is internally reflected by the left side surface 44a is incident from the left entrance surface 42a inside the lens body 12N is relates to the vertical direction, the left second lower reflector focused on the shade 48c vicinity of the surface 48a (see FIG. 67), and relates to a horizontal direction, it diffuses without condensed (see FIG. 66) as its surface shape is formed.

(478) On the other hand, in FIG. 66, right entrance surface 42b, the light from the light source 14 which is internally reflected by the right side 44b is incident from the right entrance plane 42b inside the lens body 12N is relates to the vertical direction, the right second lower reflector focused on the shade 48d near the surface 48b (see FIG. 67), and relates to a horizontal direction, the final exit surface after condensed with (second output surface 12A2b) near to the diffusion (see FIG. 66), the surface shape is formed.

(479) The second optical system of the above construction, on the virtual vertical screen, FIG. 64 C, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L shown in FIG. 64 D, PMID_R is formed.

(480) The present inventor has any pair of right and left second lower reflecting surface 48a as described above, 48b (and the shade 48c, 48d) by adding the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12N respect to the light source 14 from the design value even displaced in the direction of glare it was confirmed by simulation that can be prevented from occurring in mid light distribution pattern PMID (PMID_L, PMID_R).

(481) Incidentally, the light distribution pattern PMID_R for mid shown in mid-light distribution pattern PMID_L and FIG. 64 (d-) shown in FIG. 64 C is not symmetrical to each other, the final exit surface (second output surface 12A2b) is, is by slant angle and/or camber angle is formed as a surface of a semi-cylindrical granted. The final exit surface (second output surface 12A2b) is slant angle and/or camber angle is not granted, i.e., the cylindrical axis (and focal line F12A2b) is configured as a semi-cylindrical surface extending in the horizontal direction If it is, and the mid-light distribution pattern PMID_L and mid-light distribution pattern PMID_R, the shape of each other left and right symmetry.

(482) FIG. 69 is a side view of a third optical system (primary optical surfaces only).

(483) As shown in FIG. 69, the upper incident surface 42c and the upper surface 44Nc, by light from a light source 14 which is incident from the upper incident surface 42c in the inner lens member 12N is irradiated forward emitted from the upper surface 44Nc, FIG. 64 E, the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT and mid-light distribution pattern PMID_L, is superimposed on the PMID_R, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, PWIDE light distribution pattern for a wide diffused than PMID_R (of the present invention constitute a third optical system which forms an equivalent) to the second diffusion pattern.

(484) Light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide is near the center of the upper edge there is a light distribution pattern shape including a recess recessed downward. The reason is as follows.

(485) The present inventors have confirmed by simulation, when the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12N respect to the light source 14 was deviated from a designed value (for example, if the lens body 12N is shifted vertically downward with respect to the light source 14), FIG. 71 as indicated by a dotted line, a result of the wide-angle light distribution pattern PWIDE is moved to the overall vertically upward, glare occurs in the area of the intersection near the H line and the V line (the region preceding vehicle and the oncoming vehicle is present) it was found to be. FIG. 71 is a glare represents what happens when the relative positional relationship between the lens body 12N respect to the light source 14 is shifted in the Y direction (vertical direction) from the design value.

(486) If the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12N respect to the light source 14 is designed value, as shown in FIG. 64 E, since the wide light distribution pattern PWIDE is formed at a proper position, the glare does not occur.

(487) However, when actually manufacturing vehicle light (the lens body), assembled by the influence of the error and the like, it is difficult to a relative positional relationship between the lens body 12N respect to the light source 14 to the designed value, the lens member with respect to the light source 14 relative positional relationship of 12N is deviated from the design value.

(488) The present inventors have, due to the relative positional relationship between the lens body 12N respect to the light source 14 as described above deviates from the design value, the wide light distribution pattern PWIDE moves generally vertically upward, H since glare in the region of intersection near the lines and V lines (regions preceding vehicle or an oncoming vehicle is present) can be inhibited from occurring, a result of intensive studies, the light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide, is near the center of the upper edge by the light distribution pattern shape including a recess recessed downward, even if the wide light distribution pattern PWIDE is moved to generally vertically above the region of intersection near the H line and the V line (the preceding vehicle glare found that it is possible to suppress occurrence in area), an oncoming vehicle is present.

(489) Based on this finding, the light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide is near the center of the upper edge there is a light distribution pattern shape including a recess recessed downward.

(490) Wide light distribution pattern PWIDE shape near the center comprises a recess which is recessed below the upper edge may be formed as follows.

(491) The upper incident surface 42c, the light (mainly not enter the first entrance surface 12a of the light from the light source 14 extends upward light RayWIDE. In FIG. 65 B refer) enters inside the first lens portion 12A1 is refracted plane, as shown in FIG. 65 B, the surface of the curved convex toward the light source 14 (e.g., free-form surface) It is configured as a.

(492) Upper surface 44Nc, unlike the sixth embodiment, FIG. 62, as shown in FIG. 69, the front end portion of the lens body 12N rear end portion from (second front end 12A2bb) side (first rear end portion 12A1aa) side headed are arranged in an inclined posture obliquely upward, the light from the light source 14 which is incident from the upper incident surface 42c inside the lens body 12N functions as emission surface for emitting. Upper surface 44Nc is configured as a surface of a planar shape. Of course, not limited to this, the upper surface 44c may be configured as a surface of a curved surface.

(493) The upper incident surface 42c and/or top 44Nc, as shown in FIG. 64 E, a wide light distribution pattern PWIDE shape near the center of the upper edge includes a recessed portion recessed downwardly is formed, the surface shape is formed.

(494) The third optical system having the above structure, on a virtual vertical screen, the light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide shown in FIG. 64 E is formed.

(495) According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the sixth embodiment, further, it can achieve the following effects.

(496) That is, it realizes the appearance with a sense of unity, which extends linearly in a predetermined direction, yet, to form one in a plurality of light distribution patterns (the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, PMID_R etc.) it is possible to provide a lens body 12N capable. Note that exhibit this effect, a minimum sufficient that comprises a first optical system and second optical system, third optical system may be omitted as appropriate.

(497) It can be realized appearance with a sense of unity, which extends linearly in a predetermined direction, by the last exit surface (second output surface 12A2b) is configured as a semi-cylindrical surface (refracting surface of the semi-cylindrical) it is.

(498) One the plurality of light distribution patterns (the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, PMID_R etc.) can be formed in one lens body 12N plurality of optical systems, namely, a spot the first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, is by and a second optical system or the like to form a PMID_R.

(499) Further, according to this embodiment, by influence of assembly error, as the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12N respect to the light source 14 was deviated from the design value, glare mid light distribution pattern PMID (PMID_L, PMID_R) There can be suppressed. This is due to that it comprises mid light distribution pattern PMID (PMID_L, PMID_R) a second optical system pair second lower reflecting surface 48a to form a, 48b (and shade 48c, 48d).

(500) Further, according to this embodiment, by influence of assembly error, the relative positional relationship of the lens body 12N respect to the light source 14 is deviated from the design value, even as a wide light distribution pattern PWIDE has moved vertically upward, glare can be suppressed. This wide light distribution pattern PWIDE is by the central vicinity of the upper edge is formed as a light distribution pattern shape including a recess recessed downward. Note that exhibit this effect, a minimum, it is sufficient that a third optical system, the first optical system and/or the second optical system may be omitted as appropriate.

(501) Next, a description will be given of a modification of the lens body 12N. This modification, instead of the upper surface 44Nc, using the upper surface 44c of the sixth embodiment, further, correspond to the lens body 12N adding the second emission surface of the sixth embodiment 12A2b (the extension region 12A2b4).

(502) In this modification, as shown in FIG. 49 C, the upper entrance surface 42c, the upper surface 44c and the second output surface 12A2b (extension regions 12A2b4) is, the upper surface incident from the upper incident surface 42c inside the lens body 12N 44c in light RayWIDE from the inner surface reflected light source 14, by being irradiated forward emitted from the second emission surface 12A2b (extension regions 12A2b4), as shown in FIG. 64 E, a light distribution pattern for a spot PSPOT and mid-light distribution pattern PMID_L, is superimposed on the PMID_R, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, constituting the third optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide diffused than PMID_R.

(503) The upper incident surface 42c and/or the top surface 44c is near the center of the upper edge is so wide light distribution pattern PWIDE shape, including a recess which is recessed downward is formed, the surface shape is formed. For example, as the light reflected from the region near the center in the lateral direction of the upper surface 44c is irradiated downward from the light reflected from the region of the right and left sides, a region near the center in the lateral direction than the area of the left and right sides tilt down (or, recessed). Thus, as shown in FIG. 64 E, near the center of the top edge it can form a wide light distribution pattern PWIDE shape including the concave portion recessed downwardly.

(504) The present modification also, it is possible to achieve the same effect as the eighth embodiment.

(505) Next, a ninth embodiment, a vehicle lamp 60 to form a light distribution pattern for high beam (the lens body 62) will be described with reference to the drawings.

(506) FIG. 72 A is a longitudinal sectional view of a vehicular lamp 60 (lens body 62), FIG. 72 B is a front view. In the example of FIG. 73 A, the high-beam light distribution pattern PHi formed by the vehicular lamp 60 (lens body 62) (combined light distribution pattern), each unit shown in FIG. 73 B, FIG. 73 C distribution light pattern PHi_SPOT, are formed by PHi_WIDE is superimposed. Light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot corresponds to the light converging pattern of the present invention, the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide is equivalent to the diffusion pattern of the present invention.

(507) As shown in FIG. 72, the vehicle lamp 60 of the present embodiment, the light source 14, includes a lens body 62 or the like disposed in front of the light source 14, approximately 25 m from directly facing a virtual vertical screen (vehicle front to the vehicle front on placement are) in the forward direction to form a light distribution pattern PHi for high beam, shown in FIG. 73 A.

(508) Light source 14 is disposed at the rear end portion 62a near the lens body 62 in a posture toward the light emitting surface in front (reference point F62 near the optical design). Optical axis AX14 of the light source 14 may be coincident with the reference axis AX62 extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, may be inclined with respect to the reference axis AX62.

(509) Lens body 62 is a lens body disposed in front of the light source 14 includes a rear end portion 62a, the front end portion 62 b, the light from the lens body 62 a light source 14 which enters the interior, the front end portion 62 b (for Wide by being irradiated forward emitted from the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern and the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot), the lens body forming a light distribution pattern PHi for high beam, shown in FIG. 73 A It is configured as a. Lens body 62 is injected polycarbonate or transparent resin such as acrylic, cooling, (by injection molding) by solidifying are integrally formed.

(510) The lens body 62, a light distribution pattern for wide was spreading from the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot PHi_WIDE the first optical system for forming an (FIG. 73 B reference), and, spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT (FIG. 73 C It includes a second optical system for forming a reference).

(511) The rear end portion 62a of the lens body 62 is internally reflected light from the incident plane A, a light source 14 which enters the inner lens 62 from the incident plane A of the light distribution pattern for wide light distribution pattern wide (total reflection) and the reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, and the light from the light source 14 incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the lens body 62 it includes a reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot to internal reflection.

(512) As shown in FIG. 72 A, the incident plane A of the light distribution pattern for wide is first incident surface 62a1 of the convex toward the light source 14, from the outer peripheral edge of the first incident surface 62a1 extends rearward of the space between the light source 14 and the first incident surface 62a1, and includes a second entrance surface 62a2 cylindrical surrounding the range other than the notch portion 62a4 which light passes from the light source 14.

(513) Reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is disposed outside of the second entrance surface 62a2, the inner surface reflects light from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens 62 from the second incident surface 62a2 (total reflection) for reflecting it is a surface.

(514) FIG. 74 A, the rear end portion 62a of the lens 62 is a front view of (a first incident surface 62a1, near the reflection surface 62a3 of the second incident surface 62a2 and the light distribution pattern wide).

(515) Of the space between the light source 14 and the first incident surface 62a1, the range of the angle 1 shown in FIG. 74 A is surrounded by a second incident surface 62a2 (and a reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide) are, the scope of the angle 2 is not surrounded by the second incident surface 62a2 (and a reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide), constitutes the fan-shaped notched portion 62a4 which light from the light source 14 passes ing.

(516) As shown in FIG. 75, the range of angle 2 can be reference axis AX62 dimension is not surrounded by the relatively short second entrance surface 62a2 (and a reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide) good.

(517) FIG. 72 A, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, the light incident concave toward a light source 14 incident on the inner lens 62 from the light source 14 that has passed through the notch portion 62a4 it is a surface.

(518) Reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for spots, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot is located outside, from the light source 14 incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the lens body 62 internal reflection of the light is a reflecting surface (total reflection) to.

(519) The front end portion of the lens body 62 62 b includes an exit surface 62b1 and exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern arranged spots on the lower side of the light distribution pattern wide.

(520) The first optical system for forming a wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE (see FIG. 73 B) is constructed as follows.

(521) As shown in FIG. 72 A, the entrance surface A (a first incident surface 62a1 and the second incidence surface 62a2) of the light distribution pattern for wide, reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide, and, distribution for wide exit surface 62b1 for optical pattern, light, distribution for wide from the incident plane a (first incident surface 62a1 and the second incidence surface 62a2) light source 14 which enters the inner lens 62 from the light distribution pattern for a wide emitted from the exit surface 62b1 for optical pattern, it constitutes a first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide is emitted forward.

(522) Specifically, the first incident surface 62a1, the second incident surface 62a2, reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide and, the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for wide, a lens body from the first entrance surface 62a 62 the light from the light source 14 incident on the inside, and, from the second entrance surface internal reflection at the reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for a wide incident inside the lens body 62 from 62a (total reflection) light sources 14 light is emitted from the emitting surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for wide, it constitutes a first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide is emitted forward.

(523) Exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for wide, the cylinder axis is formed as a horizontal semi-cylindrical surfaces (cylindrical surface) which extends (FIG. 72 A the direction perpendicular to the medium paper). Focal line of the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for wide is the FIG. 72 A, and extends in the horizontal direction at a position indicated by reference numeral F62b1 (FIG. 72 A the direction perpendicular to the medium paper). Of course, not limited to this, the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for wide may be configured as a slant angle and/or the surface of the semi-cylindrical camber angle is imparted (cylindrical surface).

(524) The first incident surface 62a1 is a plane light from the light source 14 is incident on the inner lens 62 is refracted, the surface of the curved convex toward the light source 14 (e.g., free-form surface) is constructed as a. Specifically, the first incident surface 62a1 is the light from the first incident surface 62a1 light source 14 which enters the inner lens 62 from and relates to the vertical direction, the focal line of the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for a wide F62b1 was condensed near (see FIG. 72 A), and relates to a horizontal direction, the diffusion (see FIG. 76 A) as (or as collimated), the surface shape is configured there.

(525) The second incident surface 62a2 is a plane light which does not enter the first entrance surface 62a1 is incident on the inner lens 62 is refracted out of the light from the light source 14, rearward from the outer peripheral edge of the first incident surface 62a1 extending out of the space between the light source 14 and the first incident surface 62a1, a cylindrical surface surrounding a range other than the notch portion 62a4 which light passes from the light source 14 (e.g., free-form surface) is configured as there.

(526) Reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is disposed outside of the second entrance surface 62a2, the surface of internal reflection (total internal reflection) of light from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens 62 from the second incident surface 62a2 It is configured as a. Reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is a reflection surface for internal reflection (total internal reflection) of light from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens 62 from the second incident surface 62a2, metal deposition is not used. Specifically, the reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is incident on the inner lens 62 from the second incident surface 62a2 internally reflected by the reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for the wide (total reflection) light from the light source 14 relates to the vertical direction, and condensed near focal lines F62b1 of the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern wide (see FIG. 72 A), and relates to a horizontal direction, the diffusion (FIG. 76 A refer) as (or as collimated), the surface shape is formed.

(527) The first optical system configured as described above, onto a virtual vertical screen, the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide shown in FIG. 73 B is formed.

(528) That is, the light from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens body 62 from the first incident surface 62a1, and, internal reflection at the reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for a wide incident on the inner lens 62 from the second incident surface 62a2 light from (total reflection) light sources 14 is directed to a vertical direction, after condensing in the vicinity focal lines F62b1 of the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern wide (see FIG. 72 A), the wide light distribution It is emitted from the exit surface 62b1 of the pattern. At that time, the light from the light source 14 emitted from the emitting surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for wide by the action of the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for wide, is collected relates vertical direction, with respect to the reference axis AX62 parallel on, and, by being emitted forward as light diffused respect horizontal direction to form a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide shown in FIG. 73 B.

(529) Spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT second optical system for forming (FIG. 73 C reference), is constructed as follows.

(530) As shown in FIG. 72 A, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, and the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot light distribution for spots from the incident surface 62a5 of the pattern is incident on the inner lens 62 is the light from the light source 14 which is internally reflected by the reflecting surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, emitted from the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot constitute a second optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is irradiated forward.

(531) Specifically, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, and the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot passes through the cutout portion 62A4, spot internal reflection at the reflective surface 62a6 of the incident from the incident surface 62a5 for use light distribution pattern inside the lens body 62 for light distribution pattern for a spot light from a (total reflection) light sources 14, a light distribution pattern for a spot and of the exit from the exit surface 62b2, it is irradiated to the front form a second optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for the spot.

(532) Exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot is configured as a surface of a planar shape orthogonal to the reference axis AX62. Of course, not limited to this, the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot may be configured as a surface of a curved surface. Also, exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spots, as shown in FIG. 77, be configured as a surface of a planar shape or a curved shape continuous with the lower edge of the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for a wide good.

(533) Exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot is located behind the position from the output surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern wide (see FIG. 72 A). Of course, not limited to this, the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spots, arranged in a same position as the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern forward position or wide from the output surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for a wide it may be.

(534) Incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for spots, a plane light from the light source 14 is incident on the inner lens 62 is configured as a surface of a concave curved shape towards the light source 14. Specifically, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for spots (more accurately, a reference point F 62) the light source 14 is configured as a surface of a spherical shape centered. Thus, light from the light source 14 can be prevented from Fresnel reflection loss at the time of entering the inner lens 62 from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot. Of course, not limited to this, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for spots, surfaces other than the surface of the spherical shape centered on the light source 14 (e.g., free-form surface) may be configured as a.

(535) Reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for spots, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot is located outside, from the light source 14 incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the lens body 62 internal reflection of the light is configured as a (total reflection) surfaces. Reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for spot, a reflective surface for internal reflection of light from the light source 14 incident on the inner lens 62 from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot (total reflection), the metallized not used. Specifically, the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for spots, internal reflection is incident on the inner lens 62 from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot on the reflecting surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for that spot (total reflection) is, light from the light source 14 emitted from the emitting surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot relates to a vertical direction is collimated (see FIG. 72 A), and is collimated regard horizontally as (FIG. 76 B refer), the surface shape is formed. As the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, for example, focus (to be exact, the reference point F 62) the light source 14 can be used a reflecting surface of the parabolic system set in the vicinity.

(536) The second optical system configured as described above, on a virtual vertical screen, the spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT shown in FIG. 73 C is formed.

(537) That is, the cutout portion passes through 62A4, internal reflection (total internal reflection) incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot on the inner lens 62 by the reflecting surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for spot light sources 14 light from relates vertical and horizontal directions, after being collimated and emitted from the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot. At this time, since the light from the light source 14 emitted from the emitting surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, which is configured as a surface of a planar shape exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot is perpendicular to the reference axis AX62 relates the vertical and horizontal directions, by being emitted forward as light parallel to the reference axis AX62, to form a light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot shown in FIG. 73 C.

(538) Light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spots, focused than light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, and, becomes luminous intensity is high. As a result, high-beam light distribution pattern PHi formed by light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT and wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for spot is superimposed (synthesized light distribution pattern), high center luminous intensity, excellent in long-distance visibility It becomes a thing.

(539) The becomes light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot condensed from the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for Wide, wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE is parallel to the reference axis AX62 relates vertical direction and diffused relates horizontally for being formed of a light, it relates the vertical and horizontal directions spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT, is due to be formed by the light parallel to the reference axis AX62.

(540) The intensity of the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is higher than the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, the light source 14 and the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot (and/or the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot) the distance between the, compared to the distance between the light source 14 and the reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide (and/or the incident surface 62a1,62a2 the light distribution pattern wide), because they are longer in the second optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot, compared to the first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, the light source image of the light source 14 becomes relatively small, the relatively is by light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is formed with a small light source image.

(541) That is, as shown in FIG. 72 A, in the first optical system a distance W is relatively close between the light source 14 and the reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide, the light source image of the light source 14 is large because it is suitable for a wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE. Meanwhile, in the distance S is relatively far second optical system between the light source 14 and the reflecting surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, since the light source image of the light source 14 is reduced, the spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT Are suitable.

(542) Incidentally, by adjusting the angle 1 and 2 shown in FIG. 74 A, it is possible to balance the intensity of the luminous intensity and a wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot.

(543) The lens body 62 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 78 may be used upside down.

(544) According to the present embodiment can achieve the following effects.

(545) That is, it is possible to provide a lens body 62 which can form one at the spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT and wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE is superimposed high beam distribution pattern PHi (combined light distribution pattern).

(546) This is one of the lens body 62 is by that it comprises a second optical system for forming a first optical system and the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot light distribution pattern is formed PHi_WIDE for wide.

(547) Further, according to this embodiment, as a result of the luminous intensity of the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is higher than the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, it is formed by the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT and wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for spot is superimposed that high-beam light distribution pattern PHi (the combined light distribution pattern), high center luminosity can be made excellent in long-distance visibility.

(548) The intensity of the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is higher than the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, the light source 14 and the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot (and/or the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot) the distance between the, compared to the distance between the light source 14 and the reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide (and/or the incident surface 62a1,62a2 the light distribution pattern wide), because they are longer in the second optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot, compared to the first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, the light source image of the light source 14 becomes relatively small, the relatively is by light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is formed with a small light source image.

(549) Next, a description will be given of the lens body 62A is a modification of the lens body 62.

(550) FIG. 79 is a longitudinal sectional view of a lens body 62A.

(551) In the lens body 62A of this modification, the exit surface 62b1 of the light distribution pattern for wide is configured as a surface of a planar shape.

(552) The first incident surface 62a1, the light from the light source 14 emitted from the emitting surface 62Ab1 for light distribution pattern for a wide incident from the first incident surface 62a1 inside the lens body 62A is relates to the vertical direction, the collimated and it relates to a horizontal direction, so as to diffuse, the surface shape is formed. Further, the reflecting surfaces 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is incident from the second entrance surface 62a inside the lens body 62A internal reflection at the reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for the wide (total reflection), for a wide light from the light source 14 emitted from the emitting surface 62a1 of the light distribution pattern relates vertical direction is collimated, and relates to a horizontal direction, so as to diffuse, the surface shape is formed. Otherwise, the same configuration as the lens body 62 of the ninth embodiment.

(553) By lens body 62A of the present modification can achieve the same effect as the ninth embodiment.

(554) Next, a description will be given of the lens body 62B is a modification of the lens body 62.

(555) FIG. 80 is a longitudinal sectional view of the rear end portion 62a of the lens body 62B.

(556) In the lens body 62B of this modification, the first incident surface 62a1 is omitted. That is, the incident plane A of the light distribution pattern for wide is constituted only by the second entrance surface 62a. Otherwise, the same configuration as the lens body 62 of the ninth embodiment.

(557) By lens body 62B of this modification, it is possible to achieve the same effect as the ninth embodiment.

(558) Next, a tenth embodiment, a vehicle lamp 70 to form a light distribution pattern or a high beam light distribution pattern for low beam (the lens body 72) will be described with reference to the drawings.

(559) Vehicle lamp 70 of the present embodiment (the lens body 72) is constructed as follows.

(560) Perspective view from the front and obliquely downward in FIG. 81 A is the vehicle lamp 70 (lens body 72), in a perspective view seen from the rear obliquely upward of FIG. 81 B is a vehicle lamp 70 (lens body 72) is there. FIG. 82 A is a top view, FIG. 82 B is a front view, FIG. 82 C is a side view. FIG. 83 is an exploded perspective view of the vehicular lamp 70 (lens body 72).

(561) As shown in FIG. 81 to FIG. 83, the vehicle lamp 70 of the present embodiment (the lens body 72), two of the eighth embodiment of a vehicular lamp 10 N (lens body 12N) and one vehicle of the ninth embodiment It corresponds to one with use lamp 60 (the lens body 62).

(562) Hereinafter, one of the lens body 12N referred to as a first lens portion 12NLo1 (corresponding to the first lens unit for a low-beam of the present invention), a second low-beam of the other lens member 12N second lens unit 12NLo2 (present invention corresponding to the lens portion) and called, referred to as a lens body 62 third lens unit 62Hi (corresponding to the third lens unit of the high beam of the present invention).

(563) Lens body 72 (12NLo1,12NLo2,62Hi) injects polycarbonate or transparent resin such as acrylic, cooling, (by injection molding) by solidifying are integrally formed. That is, each lens portion 12NLo1,12NLo2,62Hi, by being integrally molded and connected to each other without passing through the interface.

(564) The first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 has the same configuration as the lens body 12N shown in FIG. 63. That is, the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2, as shown in FIG. 82 A or the like, a lens unit disposed in front of the first light source 14Lo1 and the second light source 14Lo2 for low beam for a low-beam on, respectively, includes a rear end 12A1aa and front end 12A2bb, light from each light source 14Lo1,14Lo2 incident inside each lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 is, the front end portion 12A2bb of each lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 (No. by being irradiated forward emitted from the second output face 12A2b), it is constructed as a lens unit which forms a low beam light distribution pattern PLo reference (FIG. 64 A) including a cutoff line on an upper edge.

(565) FIG. 82 B region AA1 enclosed by one-dot chain line in the area where light from the first light source 14Lo1 and the second light source 14Lo2 to form the low beam light distribution pattern PLo (see FIG. 64 A) is emitted shows.

(566) The rear end portion 12A1aa of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2, respectively, the cone-shaped toward the front end side of the rear end portion 12A1aa from the front end 12A2bb side of each lens portion 12NLo1,12NLo2 (or bell shape) conical section narrowing in (in FIG. 82 A, a pair of left and right side faces 44a, partial reference, including 44b) includes a.

(567) The first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 the FIG. 82 B, as shown in FIG. 82 C, are arranged in parallel in a direction inclined relative to the horizontal, and, as shown in FIG. 82 A the space between the conical portion of the first lens unit 12NLo1 (first corresponding to the cone portion of the present invention) and the conical portion of the second lens body 12NLo2 (corresponding to the second cone portion of the present invention) They are connected to each other in a state but which are formed. Of course, the invention is not limited to this, the first lens unit 12NLo1 and the second lens unit 12NLo2 may be linked to each other are arranged in parallel in the horizontal direction.

(568) The first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 the portion where the optical function of the first lens unit 12NLo1 is not intended (e.g., left side) and the optical function of the second lens unit 12NLo2 is not intended location (e.g., right side) and are connected (see FIG. 81 B).

(569) Front end 12A2bb of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 includes slant angle and/or exit surface of semicylindrical the camber angle is applied (the second emission surface 12A2b). Of course, not limited to this, the front end portion 12A2bb of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 may include emitting surface of the semicircular columnar cylinder axis extending in the horizontal direction (second output surface 12A2b).

(570) Light distribution pattern for low beam, by the first light source 14Lo1 and the second light source 14Lo2 for low beam for low beam is turned on, the low beam light distribution pattern PLo formed by each lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 (FIG. 64 (a)) is formed as a synthesized light distribution pattern superimposed.

(571) The third lens unit 62Hi has the same structure as the lens body 62 shown in FIG. 72 A. However, the front end portion of the third lens unit 62Hi the FIG. 72 differs from the lens body 62 shown in A, the rear end portion 12A1aa and the rear end portion of the second lens portion 12NLo2 of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 is connected to 12A1aa (see FIG. 81 B). Otherwise, the third lens unit 62Hi has the same structure as the lens body 62 shown in FIG. 72 A.

(572) The third lens unit 62Hi, as shown in FIG. 82 A or the like, a lens unit disposed in front of the third light source 14Hi for high beam, a third light source 14Hi incident inside the third lens unit 62Hi light from the by being irradiated forward emitted from the front end of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (second output surface 12A2b), FIG. 84 A, FIG. 84 B each unit distributed light pattern PHi_SPOT shown, PHi_WIDE is configured as a lens body forming a light distribution pattern for high beam PHi superimposed (synthesized light distribution pattern).

(573) Region surrounded by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 82 in B AA2 represents a region where light from the third light source 14Hi to form a wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for high beam (see FIG. 84 A) is emitted ing. Region AA3 surrounded by a solid line in FIG. 82 in B shows a region where light is emitted from the third light source 14Hi to form a spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for high beam (see FIG. 84 B).

(574) As shown in FIG. 81 B, the third lens unit 62Hi it is at least partially disposed in the space between the cone body and the cone portion of the second lens portion 12NLo2 of the first lens unit 12NLo1 in state point where optical function of the rear end portion 12A1aa of the rear end portion 12A1aa and the second lens portion 12NLo2 of the first lens unit 12NLo1 is not intended (for example, the rear end portion of the first lens unit 12NLo1 12A1aa and the the connecting portion) of the rear end portion 12A1aa two lens portions 12NLo2, each of the conical body portion (particularly, a pair of left and right side faces 44a, which is connected in a form that does not interfere with 44b).

(575) FIG. 85 is a perspective view from the rear obliquely upward of the third lens unit 62Hi. FIG. 86 is a longitudinal sectional view of the lens body 72 (schematic diagram).

(576) FIG. 85, as shown in FIG. 86, the rear end portion 62a of the third lens unit 62Hi has the same structure as the lens body 62 shown in FIG. 72 A. That is, the rear end portion 62a of the third lens unit 62Hi the incident plane A of the light distribution pattern for wide, from a third light source 14Hi incident inside the third lens unit 62Hi from the entrance surface A of the light distribution pattern for a wide of the reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide to internal reflection of light, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for the spot, and was incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the third lens portion 62Hi the light from the third light source 14Hi includes a reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot to internal reflection.

(577) Incident plane A of the light distribution pattern for wide, the third light source 14Hi first entrance surface 62a1 of the convex shape toward the, from the outer peripheral edge of the first incident surface 62a1 extending toward the rear, the third light source 14Hi a first of the space between the incident surface 62a1, and includes a second entrance surface 62a2 cylindrical surrounding the range other than the notch portion 62a4 which light passes from the third light source 14Hi.

(578) Reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is disposed outside of the second entrance surface 62a2, the inner surface reflects light from the third light source 14Hi incident from the second incident surface 62a2 inside the third lens unit 62Hi reflection it is a surface.

(579) Incident plane A (first incident surface 62a1 and the second incident surface 62a2) and a reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide light distribution pattern wide, as shown in FIG. 81 B, as shown in FIG. 85, the 1 the rear end 12A1aa of the lens portion 12NLo1 and rear ends 12A1aa of the second lens unit 12NLo2 is disposed at the distal end portion of the extension portion 62a7 extending rearward from the connecting portion.

(580) Incidentally, omitted extension 62A7, the portion near the trailing end 12A1aa are connected at the rear end 12A1aa and the second lens portion 12NLo2 of the first lens unit 12NLo1, the incident plane A of the light distribution pattern wide (the it is also possible to place a 1-incident surface 62a1 and the second incident surface 62a2) and a reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for a wide (cone portion of the first lens portion 12NLo1 and of the cone portion of the second lens portion 12NLo2 in a space between, when the third light source 14Hi and which can be arranged board mounted).

(581) Among them, the reflecting surface for the light distribution pattern similar range of angle 1 is for the second incident surface 62a2 (and wide to that shown in FIG. 74 A of the space between the third light source 14Hi a first entrance surface 62a1 Although surrounded by 62A3), the range of the angle 2 is not surrounded by the second incident surface 62a2 (and a reflective surface 62A3 of the light distribution pattern wide), fan-shaped light from the third light source 14Hi passes constitute a notch 62a4. Incidentally, in the same manner as shown in FIG. 75, the range of angle 2, the dimensions of the reference axis AX62Hi direction are surrounded by relatively short second entrance surface 62a2 (and a reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide) it may be.

(582) Incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for spot is incident surface of the concave light from the third light source 14Hi which has passed through the cutout portion 62a4 toward the third light source 14Hi incident inside the third lens unit 62Hi.

(583) Reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot is disposed outside of the entrance surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, a third incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the third lens unit 62Hi the light from the light source 14Hi is a reflective surface to internal reflection.

(584) As shown in FIG. 82 B, FIG. 82 C, the front end portion of the third lens unit 62Hi the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 front end 12A2bb of (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b) it includes exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot which is arranged downward.

(585) The first optical system for forming a wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE (see FIG. 84 A) is constructed as follows.

(586) FIG. 85 As shown in to FIG. 87, the incident plane A (first incident surface 62a1 and the second incidence surface 62a2) of the light distribution pattern for wide, reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide, first and second the front end 12A2bb of the lens section 12NLo1,12NLo2 (semi-cylindrical shape of the exit surface 12A2b), the third lens unit 62Hi inside from the incident surface a of the light distribution pattern for a wide (the first incident surface 62a1 and the second incident surface 62a2) light RayHi_WIDE from the third light source 14Hi incident on are emitted from the front end of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b), for wide for high beam is emitted forward constitute a first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE (see FIG. 84 A).

(587) The first incident surface 62a1 is a plane light from the third light source 14Hi enters inside the third lens unit 62Hi is refracted, the surface of the curved convex toward the third light source 14Hi (e.g., free-form surface) as It is configured. Specifically, the first incident surface 62a1, the light RayHi_WIDE from the third light source 14Hi incident from the first incident surface 62a1 inside the third lens unit 62Hi is relates to the vertical direction, the first and second lens portions 12NLo1 was condensed near focal lines F12A2b of the front end of the 12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b) (FIG. 86 and FIG. 87 A see), and relates to a horizontal direction, the diffusion (FIG. 87 B the reference) as (or as collimated), the surface shape is formed.

(588) The second incident surface 62a2 is a plane light RayHi_WIDE which does not enter the first entrance surface 62a1 enters the interior third lens unit 62Hi is refracted out of the light from the third light source 14Hi, the outer peripheral edge of the first incident surface 62a1 extends rearward from, among the space between the third light source 14Hi a first entrance surface 62a1, a cylindrical surface surrounding a range other than the notch portion 62a4 which light RayHi_SPOT passes from the third light source 14Hi (e.g., free-form surface) is constructed as a.

(589) Reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is disposed outside of the second entrance surface 62a2, the inner surface reflecting light RayHi_WIDE from the third light source 14Hi incident from the second incident surface 62a2 inside the third lens unit 62Hi (It is configured as a total reflection) surfaces. Reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is a reflective surface to the inner surface reflecting light RayHi_WIDE from the third light source 14Hi incident from the second incident surface 62a2 inside the third lens portion 62Hi (total internal reflection), the metal vapor deposition not used. Specifically, the reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide from the second incident surface 62a2 enters the interior third lens unit 62Hi internal reflection at the reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for the wide (total reflection) light RayHi_WIDE from the third light source 14Hi is relates to the vertical direction, and condensed near focal lines F12A2b of the front end of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b) (FIG. 86 and FIG. 87 A see), and relates to a horizontal direction, diffuse reference (FIG. 87 B) as (or as collimated), the surface shape is formed.

(590) The first optical system configured as described above, onto a virtual vertical screen, the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide shown in FIG. 84 A is formed.

(591) That is, the third light RayHi_WIDE from the light source 14Hi, and, for light distribution pattern for a wide incident from the second incident surface 62a2 inside the third lens unit 62Hi incident from the first incident surface 62a1 inside the third lens unit 62Hi internal reflection at the reflective surface 62a3 of the light RayHi_WIDE from (total reflection) by the third light source 14Hi relates vertical direction, the front end portion of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b) focal lines F12A2b near the condensing after (FIG. 86 and FIG. 87 A refer), as shown in FIG. 87 B, an intermediate output surface of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 (left and right exit surface 46a, emitted from the 46 b) to the lens body 72 outside, further, the first and incident from the middle plane of incidence of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 (second incident surface 12A2a) inside the lens body 72 of the front end portion of the second lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b), emitted from the region AA2 enclosed by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 82 B. At that time, light RayHi_WIDE from the third light source 14Hi emitted from the front end of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b) is the first and the second lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 by the action of the front end 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b), is condensed respect the vertical direction, parallel to the reference axis AX62Hi, and, by being emitted forward as light diffused relates horizontally, to form a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide shown in FIG. 84 A.

(592) Spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT second optical system for forming (FIG. 84 B reference), is constructed as follows.

(593) As shown in FIG. 85 to FIG. 87, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, and the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot light distribution for spots from the incident surface 62a5 of the pattern is incident inside the third lens unit 62Hi light RayHi_SPOT from the third light source 14Hi which is internally reflected by the reflecting surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, the emission of the light distribution pattern for a spot emitted from the surface 62b2, to constitute a second optical system for forming a spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for high beam is emitted forward (see FIG. 84 B).

(594) Specifically, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, and the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot passes through the cutout portion 62A4, spot from the incident surface 62a5 for use light distribution pattern is incident on the internal third lens portion 62Hi light RayHi_SPOT from the third light source 14Hi that are internal reflection (total internal reflection) in the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, spot emitted from the exit surface 62b2 for use light distribution pattern, it is emitted forward constitute a second optical system for forming a spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT (see FIG. 84 B).

(595) Exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot is configured as a surface of a planar shape orthogonal to the reference axis AX62Hi. Of course, not limited to this, the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot may be configured as a surface of a curved surface.

(596) Exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spots are arranged from the front end portion of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical emitting surface 12A2b) behind the position (see FIG. 86). Of course, not limited to this, the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot, forward position or the first and the front end portion of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b) it may be disposed at the same position as the front end portion of the second lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 12A2bb (semicylindrical exit surface 12A2b).

(597) Incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for the spot, in terms of light RayHi_SPOT from the third light source 14Hi is incident on the inside third lens portion 62Hi, is configured toward the third light source 14Hi as the surface of the concave curved surface shape there. Specifically, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for spots (more accurately, a reference point F62Hi) third light source 14Hi is configured as a surface of a spherical shape centered. Thus, it is possible to suppress Fresnel reflection loss when light RayHi_SPOT from the third light source 14Hi is incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the third lens unit 62Hi. Of course, not limited to this, the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for spots, surfaces other than the surface of the spherical shape centered on the third light source 14Hi (e.g., free-form surface) may be configured as a.

(598) Reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot is disposed outside of the entrance surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, a third incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the third lens unit 62Hi internal reflection light RayHi_SPOT from the light source 14Hi is configured as a (total reflection) surfaces. Reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for the spot, internal reflection light RayHi_SPOT from the third light source 14Hi incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the third lens portion 62Hi (total internal reflection) to the reflective surface in, metal deposition is not used. Specifically, the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for spots on the reflecting surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for the spot incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the third lens unit 62Hi is internally reflected (total reflection), the light RayHi_SPOT from the third light source 14Hi emitted from the emitting surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for spot relates to a vertical direction is collimated (see FIG. 86 and FIG. 88 A), and as is collimated also the horizontal direction (see FIG. 88 B), the surface shape is formed. As the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, for example, focus (to be exact, the reference point F62Hi) third light source 14Hi may be used a reflecting surface of the parabolic system set in the vicinity.

(599) The second optical system configured as described above, on a virtual vertical screen, the spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT shown in FIG. 84 B is formed.

(600) That is, passes through the notch portion 62A4, which is internally reflected incident from the incident surface 62a5 of the light distribution pattern for a spot inside the third lens unit 62Hi by the reflecting surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot (total reflection) light RayHi_SPOT from the third light source 14Hi relates vertical and horizontal directions, after being collimated and emitted from the exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot. At that time, light RayHi_SPOT from the third light source 14Hi emitted from the emitting surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot is formed as a surface of a planar shape exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot is perpendicular to the reference axis AX62Hi and since that relates the vertical and horizontal directions, by being emitted forward as parallel light with respect to the reference axis AX62Hi, to form a light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot shown in FIG. 84 B.

(601) Light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spots, focused than light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, and, becomes luminous intensity is high. As a result, high-beam light distribution pattern PHi formed by light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT and wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for spot is superimposed (synthesized light distribution pattern), high center luminous intensity, excellent in long-distance visibility It becomes a thing.

(602) The becomes light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot condensed from the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for Wide, wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE is parallel to the reference axis AX62Hi relates vertical direction and diffused relates horizontally for being formed of a light RayHi_WIDE, relates the vertical and horizontal directions spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT, it is due to be formed by parallel light RayHi_SPOT respect to the reference axis AX62Hi.

(603) The intensity of the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is higher than the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, the third light source 14Hi and the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot (and/or the incident surface of the light distribution pattern for a spot 62a5) the distance between the, compared to the distance between the third light source 14Hi a reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide (and/or the incident surface 62a1,62a2 the light distribution pattern wide), long setting because they are, in the second optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot, compared to the first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, the light source image of the third light source 14Hi is relatively small ones next, is by spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT is formed by the relatively small light source image.

(604) That is, as shown in FIG. 86, in the first optical system a distance W is relatively close between the third light source 14Hi a reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide, the light source image of the third light source 14Hi is becomes larger, it is suitable for a wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE. Meanwhile, in the distance S is relatively far second optical system between the third light source 14Hi a reflecting surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, since the light source image of the third light source 14Hi decreases, distribution for spots It is suitable for the light pattern PHi_SPOT.

(605) Incidentally, by adjusting the angle 1 and 2 shown in FIG. 74 A, it is possible to balance the intensity of the luminous intensity and a wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot.

(606) Light distribution pattern PHi for high beam, a first light source 14Lo1 for low beam, by the third light source 14Hi for the second light source 14Lo2 and high beam low beam is turned on, the spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for high beam (FIG. 84 B refer), is formed as a synthesized light distribution pattern wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE (FIG. 84 A see) and the light distribution pattern PLo low beam reference (Figures FIG. 64 A) are superimposed for the high beam that. Of course, not limited to this, a light distribution pattern PHi high beam, by the third light source 14Hi for high beam is turned on, the high-beam spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT (see FIG. 84 B) and for high beam wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE (FIG. 84 A refer) may be formed as a synthesized light distribution pattern superimposed.

(607) According to the present embodiment can achieve the following effects.

(608) That is, it is possible to realize the first and miniaturization of the second lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 and the lens body 72 in which the third lens portion 62Hi for high beam is formed integrally for low beam. This is the first, third lens unit 62Hi is disposed in the space between at least a portion of the second cone portion of the first cone portion of the first lens unit 12NLo1 second lens unit 12NLo2 in the state, coupled with and the rear end portion of the rear end portion and the second lens portion 12NLo2 of the first lens unit 12NLo1 (rather than a parallel arrangement, are connected in the form of a series arrangement) that, in the second, the first and front end of the second lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 for low beam (emission surface 12A2b), and a separate front end the front end portion of the third lens unit 62Hi (emission surface) is physically separated for high beam (emitting surface) instead of being configured as, enclosed (part of the exit surface 12A2b) (FIG. 82 B first and front end of the second lens unit 12NLo1,12NLo2 for low beam by the two-dot chain line in the front end portion of the third lens unit 62Hi reference region AA2) is for high beam (that constitutes the exit surface) (i.e., a portion of the emission surface 12A2b for low beam also serves as the exit surface for high beam) it is due.

(609) Further, it is possible to provide a lens body 72 which can form one at the spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT and wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE is superimposed high beam distribution pattern PHi (combined light distribution pattern).

(610) This is one of the lens body 72 is by that it comprises a second optical system for forming a first optical system and the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot light distribution pattern is formed PHi_WIDE for wide.

(611) As a result of the luminous intensity of the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is higher than the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, high-beam light distribution pattern is formed by light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT and wide light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for spot is superimposed PHi (the combined light distribution pattern), high center luminosity can be made excellent in long-distance visibility.

(612) The intensity of the light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot is higher than the light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, the third light source 14Hi and the reflective surface 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot (and/or the incident surface of the light distribution pattern for a spot 62a5) the distance between the, compared to the distance between the third light source 14Hi a reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide (and/or the incident surface 62a1,62a2 the light distribution pattern wide), long setting because they are, in the second optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for spot, compared to the first optical system for forming a light distribution pattern PHi_WIDE for wide, the light source image of the third light source 14Hi is relatively small ones next, is by spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT is formed by the relatively small light source image.

(613) As described above, the concept of first lens portion of the low beam, the second lens portion of the low-beam, and, integrally molding the third lens portion of the high beam is the vehicle of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 62 is not limited to use lamp 10 N (lens body 12N) and the ninth embodiment of the vehicle lamp shown in FIG. 72 64 (lens 66), the vehicle lighting device according to the above embodiments (lens body) and other others it can be applied to various vehicle lighting device (lens body).

(614) For example, as the first and second lens unit, in place of the lens body 12N of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 62, the lens 12 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a lens of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 16 body 12A, the lens of the sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 39 12 J, or may be used lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 49. Both of these lens body is because the lens portion of the low beam.

(615) Here, as the first and second lens unit, in place of the lens body 12N of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 62, the lens body 72A will be described using the lens body 12K of the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 49.

(616) FIG. 89 A is a top view of a lens body 72A, FIG. 89 B is a front view.

(617) Lens body 72A of this modification, the 10 vehicle lamp of two eighth embodiment of the lens body 72 of the embodiment 10N (the lens body 12N), two of the seventh embodiment of the vehicular lamp 10K (correspond to those obtained by replacing in the lens body 12K). Otherwise, the lens body 72A of this modification has the same structure as the lens body 72 of the tenth embodiment.

(618) As shown in FIG. 89 A, the rear end portion 12A1aa of the first and second lens portions 12KLo1,12KLo2 respectively, from the front end 12A2bb side of each lens portion 12KLo1,12KLo2 the front end side of the rear end portion 12A1aa contains cone section that narrows the cone-shaped (or bell-shaped) (in the FIG. 89 A, a pair of left and right sides 44a, part reference, including 44b) and toward.

(619) The first and second lens portions 12KLo1,12KLo2, as shown in FIG. 89 B, arranged in parallel in a horizontal direction, as shown in FIG. 89 A, the conical portion of the first lens unit 12KLo1 (the They are connected to each other with a space formed between the first corresponding to the cone portion) and cone portion of the second lens body 12KLo2 of the invention (corresponding to the second cone portion of the present invention). Of course, the invention is not limited to this, the first lens unit 12KLo1 and the second lens unit 12KLo2 may be linked to each other are arranged in parallel in a direction inclined relative to the horizontal.

(620) Front end 12A2bb of the first and second lens portions 12KLo1,12KLo2 includes exit surface 12Kb planar shape extending in the horizontal direction (46a in FIG. 49, 46 b, 46c refer) to. Of course, not limited to this, the front end portion 12A2bb of the first and second lens portions 12NLo1,12NLo2 may include an emission face 12Kb planar shape slant angle and/or camber angle is applied.

(621) The first incident surface 62a1 is emitted from the from the first incident surface 62a1 enters the interior third lens unit 62Hi first and front end of the second lens unit 12KLo1,12KLo2 12A2bb (exit surface 12Kb planar shape) light from the third light source 14Hi that is, relates to vertical, collimated, and relates to a horizontal direction, so as to diffuse, the surface shape is formed. Further, the reflecting surfaces 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for wide is the second entrance surface 62a enters the interior third lens unit 62Hi internal reflection at the reflective surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern for the wide (total reflection), light from the third light source 14Hi emitted from the front end of the first and second lens portions 12KLo1,12KLo2 12A2bb (exit surface 12Kb planar shape) relates to a vertical direction is collimated, and relates to a horizontal direction, so as to diffuse to, the surface shape is configured. Otherwise, the same configuration as the lens body 72 of the tenth embodiment.

(622) By lens body 72A of the present modification can achieve the same effects as the tenth embodiment.

(623) Next, a description will be given of the lens body 72B is a modification of the lens body 72.

(624) In the lens body 72B of this modification, similarly to the rear end portion 62a of the lens body 62B shown in FIG. 80, the first incident surface 62a1 it is omitted. That is, the incident plane A of the light distribution pattern for wide is composed only of the second incident surface 62a2. Otherwise, the same configuration as the lens body 72 of the tenth embodiment.

(625) By lens body 72B of this modification, it is possible to achieve the same effect as the tenth embodiment.

(626) Then, the lens body 72 (third lens portion 62Hi) is a modification of the lens body 72C (third lens unit 62CHi) will be described.

(627) Lens body 72C of the present modification (a third lens unit 62CHi) is incident surface 62a5 of the third lens unit light distribution pattern for a spot from 62Hi shown in FIG. 85 or the like, reflective surfaces 62a6 of the light distribution pattern for a spot and, exit surface 62b2 of the light distribution pattern for a spot, i.e., correspond to those omitting the second optical system for forming a spot light distribution pattern PHi_SPOT for high beam (see FIG. 84 B).

(628) FIG. 74 B is a front view of the lens body 72C rear end 62a of the (third lens portion 62CHi) (the first incident surface 62a1, near the reflective surface 62a3 of the second incident surface 62a2 and the light distribution pattern for wide) it is.

(629) Lens body 72C of the present modification in the (third lens unit 62CHi), as shown in FIG. 74 B, the space between the third light source 14Hi a first entrance surface 62a1 and the second incident surface 62a2 (and It is surrounded by the reflecting surface 62a3 of the light distribution pattern wide). That is, in the lens body 72C of the present modification (a third lens unit 62CHi), fan-shaped notch portion 62a4 which light from the third light source 14Hi passes is omitted.

(630) According to this modification, it is possible to form only the diffusion pattern PHi_WIDE for high beam. Further, by adjusting the surface shape of the first incident surface 62a1 and/or the second incident surface 62a2, it is also possible to form only the light distribution pattern for a spot for high beam.

(631) Next, the vehicle lighting device 10P of the eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

(632) Vehicle lamp 10P of the present embodiment is configured as follows.

(633) FIG. 90 A is a front view of the rear end portion 12A1aa of the lens body 12N constituting the vehicle lamp 10P of the present embodiment, FIG. 90 B FIG. 90 B-B sectional view of A (schematic diagrams) FIG. 90 C is a C-C in cross-sectional view of FIG. 90 A (schematic diagram).

(634) FIG. 90 A, as shown at FIG. 90 C, the vehicle lamp 10P of the present embodiment, obtained by adding a reflective surface Ref for vehicle lighting device 10N of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 62 Equivalent to.

(635) In the vehicle lamp 10N of the eighth embodiment, the left and right side pair of left and right entrance surface 42a of the space between light source 14 and the first entrance surface 12a, surrounded by 42b on (see FIG. 43 B) because you are, light RayMID from the light source 14 that extends to the left and right direction, the left and right pair of the incident surface 42a, directly incident from 42b inside the lens body 12N, low-beam light distribution pattern PLO (mid-light distribution pattern PMID_L, PMID_R) used in the formation. Further, since is the upper of the space between light source 14 and the first incident face 12a is surrounded by the upper incident surface 42c (see FIG. 65 B), the light RayWIDE from the light source 14 extending upwards, directly incident from the on the entrance surface 42c inside the lens body 12N, is used to form the low beam light distribution pattern PLO (light distribution pattern PWIDE for wide).

(636) However, in the vehicle lighting device 10N of the eighth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 91, the light RayOUT from a light source 14 which extends downwards, does not enter inside the lens body 12N, formation of the light distribution pattern PLO low beam not used to.

(637) Vehicle lamp 10N of the present embodiment, the lens body light RayOUT from the light source 14 extending in the downward direction not incident inside the lens body 12N rear end 12A1aa (i.e. the incident surface 12a, 42a, 42b) of the lens body 12N from by entering the internal 12N, for use in formation of the light distribution pattern for low beam PLO, and a reflective surface Ref.

(638) Reflecting surface Ref reflects the light RayOUT other than the light directly incident from the rear end 12A1aa of the lens body 12N inside the lens body 12N of the light from the light source 14 rear end 12A1aa (i.e. the incident surface 12a, 42a, a reflective surface for incident 42b) inside the lens body 12N.

(639) As shown in FIG. 90 AFIG. 90 C, the reflective surface Ref is the lower space between the light source 14 and the first entrance surface 12a, arranged to surround the space from the lower side ing. Reflecting surface Ref is fixed to the substrate K, the light source 14 is mounted. Of course, not limited to this, the reflecting surface Ref can be fixed to a housing (not shown) or the like constituting the lamp chamber vehicular lamp 10P is accommodated.

(640) Reflecting surface Ref is to metal deposition of aluminum vapor deposition or the like may be a reflector that has been subjected, may be a metal plate mirror-processing has been performed, it may be a mirror member, other than this it may be a reflective member.

(641) Reflecting surface Ref may be a reflecting surface of a planar shape, it may be a reflective surface of curved shape.

(642) In the vehicle lamp 10P with the above configuration, as shown in FIG. 90 C, the light from the light source 14 extending in the downward direction, is disposed below the space between the light source 14 and the first entrance surface 12a was being reflected by the reflecting surface Ref, the rear end portion 12A1aa (i.e. the incident surface 12a, 42a, 42b) of the lens body 12N incident from inside the lens body 12N, low-beam distribution pattern PLO (spot light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, used in the formation of PMID_R).

(643) At that time, reflected light from the reflecting surface Ref incident from the first incident surface 12a to the inner lens member 12N is, the first optical system for forming a spot light distribution pattern PSPOT (see FIG. 74 B) (FIG. 42 (the first lower reflection surface 12b which constitute the a)) (and shade 12c), is controlled below the cutoff line. Therefore, due to the reflected light from the reflecting surface Ref incident from the first incident surface 12a to the inner lens element 12N, glare occurs in the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT for low beam (see FIG. 64 B) it can be suppressed.

(644) Further, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, the reflected light from the reflecting surface Ref incident from 42b inside the lens body 12N is, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, PMID_R (FIG. 64 C, FIG. 64 (d-) refer) to the second optical system (FIG. 66, FIG. 67 reference) the second lower reflecting surface 48a of the pair constituting the forming, 48b (and the shade 48c, 48d) by, is controlled below the cutoff line. Therefore, the pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, due to the reflected light from the reflecting surface Ref incident inside the lens body 12N from 42b, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L for low beam, suppressing the glare occurs PMID_R be able to.

(645) According to this embodiment, in addition to the effects of the eighth embodiment, further, it can achieve the following effects.

(646) That, and a lens member 12N which is disposed in front of the light source 14 and the light source 14 to form a light distribution pattern including a cutoff line on an upper edge (spot light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, PMID_R) a in the fabricated vehicle lamp 10P as, light use efficiency can be suppressed. This light RayOUT from the light source 14 that spreads light (downward than the light which enters directly into the lens body 12N of the light from the light source 14. FIG. 91 of the lens body 12N and reflects the reference) rear end 12A1aa (i.e. the incident surface 12a, 42a, is by having a reflective surface Ref to incident 42b) inside the lens body 12N.

(647) Next, a description will be given of the reflective surface RefA is a modification of the reflective surface Ref.

(648) FIG. 92 is an example of a reflecting surface RefA of this modification (top view).

(649) Reflecting surface RefA of this modification is constituted incident surface 12a, 42a, the first reflective region RefSPOT partitioned into three in correspondence to 42b, the second reflective region RefMID_L, as a reflective surface comprising a third reflective region RefMID_R ing. Specifically, the reflecting surface RefA of this modification, the first reflective region RefSPOT be incident from the first incident surface 12a reflects a portion of the light inside the lens body 12N from the light source 14, light from the light source 14 the second reflective region RefMID_L where the is incident from the other one of the incident surface 42a of the pair of left and right entrance surface reflects a part inside the lens body 12N, and reflects another part of the light from the light source 14 It is formed as a reflecting surface comprising a third reflective region RefMID_R be incident from the other incident surface 42b inside the lens body 12N of the pair of left and right entrance surface on. Each of the reflection region RefSPOT, RefMID_L, the leading edge of RefMID_R is, in top view, the incident surface 12a, 42a, has a shape along the 42b.

(650) The first reflective region RefSPOT the reflected light from the first reflective region RefSPOT incident from the first incident surface 12a to the inner lens member 12N is, for example, are light distribution in the region indicated by reference numeral PSPOT in FIG. 93 (Ref) to so, the surface shape is configured. The second reflective region RefMID_L the reflected light from the second reflective region RefMID_L entering from the left entrance surface 42a inside the lens body 12N is, for example, are light distribution in a region shown by reference numeral PMID_L in FIG. 93 (Ref) as described above, the surface shape is formed. The third reflective region RefMID_R the reflected light from the third reflecting region RefMID_R entering from the right entrance plane 42b inside the lens body 12N is, for example, are light distribution in a region shown by reference numeral PMID_R in FIG. 93 (Ref) as described above, the surface shape is formed. Of course, not limited to this, each of the reflective regions RefSPOT, RefMID_L, RefMID_R, like each of the reflected light is light distribution in the other regions, the surface shape may be configured.

(651) According to the reflective surface RefA of this modification, each of the reflection region RefSPOT, RefMID_L, by individually adjusting the RefMID_R, each of the reflection region RefSPOT incident each of the incident surface 12a, 42a, from 42b inside the lens body 12N, RefMID_L, it is possible to individually control the reflected light from the RefMID_R.

(652) As described above, by adding a reflective surface, improve the utilization efficiency of light from the light source 14 concept is not limited to the vehicle lamp 10N of the eighth embodiment, according to the above embodiments it can be applied to a vehicle lamp and other various other vehicle lamp.

(653) This will be described below.

(654) For example, formed as shown in FIG. 94 A, the upper incident surface from the vehicle lamp 10 N (lens body 12N) of the eighth embodiment 42c, i.e., a wide light distribution pattern PWIDE (see FIG. 64 E) third optical system (FIG. 69 reference) omit the vehicle lamp 10N1 (lens body 12N1) is assumed to be.

(655) In the vehicle lighting device 10N1, as shown in FIG. 94 A, light RayOUT from the light source 14 extending upward and downward, it does not enter inside the lens body 12N1, formation of the light distribution pattern PLO low beam not used to.

(656) Therefore, by adding a reflective surface, improve the utilization efficiency of light from the light source 14 based on the idea that, as shown in FIG. 94 B, disposing a reflective surface Ref (or RefA).

(657) Reflecting surface Ref (or RefA) to the upper and lower space between the light source 14 and the first entrance surface 12a, respectively, it is arranged so as to surround the space from the upper and lower.

(658) In the reflecting surface Ref (or RefA) to add the vehicular lamp 10N1 as described above, as shown in FIG. 94 B, the rear end portion of the lens body 12N1 (i.e. the incident surface 12a, 42a, 42b) from the light other than the light directly incident to the inner lens body 12N1, i.e., light from the light source 14 extending in the vertical direction, the light source 14 and the upper and the reflecting surface which is disposed below the space between the first entrance surface 12a is reflected by the Ref (or RefA), the rear end portion of the lens body 12N1 (ie incident surface 12a, 42a, 42b) incident on the internal lens body 12N1 from, low-beam light distribution pattern PLO (spot light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, used in the formation of PMID_R).

(659) At that time, reflected light from the reflecting surface is incident to the inner lens member 12N1 from the first incidence plane 12a Ref (or RefA) comprises a first optical system for forming a spot light distribution pattern PSPOT (see FIG. 64 B) (FIG. 42 A see) the first lower reflection surface 12b which constitutes the (and shade 12c), it is controlled below the cutoff line. Therefore, glare due to the light reflected from the reflecting surface is incident to the inner lens member 12N1 from the first incidence plane 12a Ref (or RefA), the spot light distribution pattern PSPOT for low beam (see FIG. 64 B) There can be suppressed.

(660) Further, a pair of left and right entrance surface 42a, the reflected light from the reflecting surface is incident to the inner lens member 12N1 from 42b Ref (or RefA), mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, PMID_R (FIG. 64 C, FIG. 64 (d- the second optical system (FIG. 66 to form a)), the second lower reflecting surface 48a of the pair constituting the reference FIG. 67), by 48b (and the shade 48c, 48d), are controlled below the cutoff line. Therefore, due to the reflected light from the left and right pair of the incident surface 42a, the reflecting surface is incident on the internal lens body 12N1 from 42b Ref (or RefA), mid-light distribution pattern PMID_L for low beam, glare is generated in the PMID_R it can be inhibited from.

(661) According to this modification, similarly to the eleventh embodiment can provide the following effects.

(662) That, and a light source 14 and the lens body 12N1 disposed in front of the light source 14 to form a light distribution pattern including a cutoff line on an upper edge (spot light distribution pattern PSPOT, mid light distribution pattern PMID_L, PMID_R) a in the vehicle lamp 10N1 configured to, light utilization efficiency can be suppressed. This light RayOUT from the light source 14 that spreads light (vertical direction other than the light directly incident to the inner lens member 12N1 of the light from the light source 14. FIG. 94 A reference) due to the fact that with a reflected rear end 12A1aa of the lens body 12N1 with (ie incident surface 12a, 42a, 42b) reflective surface to be incident on the internal lens body 12N1 from Ref (or RefA) a it is.

(663) Also, for example, in the vehicle lamp 10 of the first embodiment (the same is true vehicle lamp 10A of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 16) shown in FIG. 1, as shown in FIG. 95 A, vertically and horizontally light RayOUT from a light source 14 that extends does not enter the inner lens member 12, 12A, is not used in formation of the light distribution pattern for low beam PLO.

(664) Therefore, by adding a reflective surface, improve the utilization efficiency of light from the light source 14 based on the idea that, as shown in FIG. 95 B, disposing a reflective surface RefB.

(665) Reflective surface RefB is constituted from the incident surface 12a side as the rear cylindrical reflecting surface extending toward the (light source 14 side), it is arranged so as to surround the space between the light source 14 and the incident surface 12a.

(666) In the first embodiment of the vehicle lamp 10N adding a reflective surface RefB (vehicle lamp 10A of the second embodiment is also the same) as described above, as shown in FIG. 95 B, the lens body 12,12A during a rear end portion from (i.e. the incident surface 12a) light other than light entering directly into the lens body 12, 12A, i.e., the light from the light source 14 extending in the vertical and horizontal directions, the light source 14 and the incident surface 12a of the space is reflected in the arrangement so as to surround the in-cylinder-shaped reflecting surfaces RefB, the rear end portion of the lens body 12, 12A (i.e. the incident surface 12a) incident from inside the lens body 12, 12A, the low-beam light distribution used to form the pattern.

(667) At that time, the optical system the light reflected from the reflecting surface RefB incident from the first incident surface 12a to the inner lens body 12,12A is, to form a light distribution pattern for low beam (FIG. 2 A, the see FIG. 17 A) by the lower reflecting surface 12b constituting the (and shade 12c), it is controlled below the cutoff line. Therefore, due to the reflected light from the reflecting surface RefB incident inside the lens body 12,12A from the incident surface 12a, the glare light distribution pattern for low beam can be suppressed.

(668) According to this modification, similarly to the eleventh embodiment can provide the following effects.

(669) That is, the light source 14 and a lens body 12,12A disposed in front of the light source 14, a light distribution pattern configured vehicular lamp so as to form a (light distribution pattern for low beam) including the cutoff line on an upper edge in 10, 10A, it is possible to light use efficiency can be suppressed. This light RayOUT from the light source 14 that spreads light (vertical and horizontal directions other than the light entering directly into the lens body 12,12A of the light from the light source 14. Is by FIG. 95 A see) further comprising a rear end portion 12A1aa (i.e. reflective surface RefB to be incident from the incident surface 12a) inside the lens body 12,12A the lens body 12,12A reflects.

(670) A vehicular lighting fixture 64 (lens body 66) for forming an ADB light distribution pattern will be described next as Embodiment 12 with reference to the drawings.

(671) FIG. 96 is a perspective view of the vehicular lighting fixture 64 (lens body 66), FIG. 97A is a rear view of the lens body 66, and FIG. 97B is a top view, FIG. 97C is a front view, FIG. 97D is a left side view, FIG. 98A is a right side view, and FIG. 98B is a bottom view thereof. FIG. 99A and FIG. 99B are examples of ADB light distribution patterns P.sub.L1 to P.sub.L3 and P.sub.R1 to P.sub.R3 formed by the vehicular lighting fixture 64 (lens body 66).

(672) As illustrated in FIG. 96 to FIG. 98, the vehicular lighting fixture 64 of this embodiment includes a light source 14, a lens body 66 which is disposed in front of the light source 14 and the like, and forms an ADB light distribution pattern (e.g. ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.L1) depicted in FIG. 99A on a virtual vertical screen (disposed in front of the front surface of the vehicle by about 25 m), which faces the front surface of the vehicle.

(673) A light distribution-variable type vehicular lighting fixture (ADB: Adaptive Driving Beam) can be implemented by using a plurality of vehicular lighting fixture 64.

(674) For example, three vehicular lighting fixtures 64.sub.L1 to 64.sub.L3, which are configured to form three ADB light distribution patterns P.sub.L1 to P.sub.L3 disposed on the left of the vertical line V in FIG. 99A, and three vehicular lighting fixtures 64.sub.R1 to 64.sub.R3, which are configured to form three ADB light distribution patterns P.sub.R1 to P.sub.R3 disposed on the right side of the vertical line V, are prepared. Then a controller, such as a CPU, determines whether an irradiation-prohibited object (e.g. preceding vehicle or oncoming vehicle) exists in front of this vehicle, based on the detection result of an imaging apparatus (e.g. CCD camera) or the like, which functions as a detection unit to detect an object in front of this vehicle in which these vehicular lighting fixtures 64.sub.L1 to 64.sub.L3 and 64.sub.R1 to 64.sub.R3 are installed, and if it is determined that an irradiation-prohibited object exists, the corresponding light source 14 is turned OFF or dimmed so that the ADB light distribution pattern is not formed in a region where the irradiation-prohibited object exists. FIG. 99B is an example when the corresponding light source 14 is turned OFF, so that the ADB light distribution patterns P.sub.L1 and P.sub.R1 are not formed in a region where the irradiation-prohibited object (e.g. preceding vehicle V1 or oncoming vehicle V2) exists.

(675) The ADB light distribution pattern disposed on the left side of the vertical line V in FIG. 99A (e.g. ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.L1) is formed by the lens body 66 illustrated in, for example, FIG. 96 to FIG. 98. The ADB light distribution pattern disposed on the right side of the vertical line V in FIG. 99A (e.g. ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.R1) is formed by a lens body (not illustrated) having a shape which is a laterally inverted shape of the lens body 66 illustrated in, for example, FIG. 96 to FIG. 98. In other words, the lens body 66, which forms the ADB light distribution pattern disposed on the left side of the vertical line V (e.g. ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.L1), and the lens body which forms the ADB light distribution pattern disposed on the right side of the vertical line V (e.g. ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.R1), have substantially the same bilateral symmetric shape. Hence the lens body 66, which forms the ADB light distribution pattern disposed on the left side of the vertical line V (e.g. ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.L1), will be described herein below, and description on the lens body, which forms the ADB light distribution pattern disposed on the right side of the vertical line V (e.g. ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.R1), will be omitted.

(676) As illustrated in FIG. 97B and FIG. 97D, the light source 14 is disposed near the rear end portion 66a of the lens body 66 (near the reference point F.sub.66 in the optical design), so that the light emitting surface thereof is directed forward. The optical axis AX.sub.14 of the light source 14 may match with the reference axis AX.sub.66 extending in the front-back direction of the vehicle, or may be inclined from the reference axis AX.sub.66.

(677) The lens body 66.sub.L1, which forms the ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.L1 illustrated in FIG. 99A, will be described below.

(678) The lens body 66.sub.L1 is a lens body disposed in front of the light source 14, and includes a rear end portion 66a and a front end portion 66b, and is configured as a lens body which forms the ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.u including a lower cut-off line CL.sub.66e and a vertical cut-off line CL.sub.66f as illustrated in FIG. 99A, when the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 66.sub.L is emitted from the front end portion 66b (emission surface 66b1), and is irradiated forward. The lens body 66.sub.L1 is integrally molded by injecting transparent resin (e.g. polycarbonate, acrylic), and cooling and solidifying the resin (by injection molding).

(679) The lens body 66.sub.L1 has an upper reflection surface 66c and a vertical reflection surface 66d disposed between the rear end portion 66a and the front end portion 66b thereof. The tip portion of the upper reflection surface 66c and the tip portion of the vertical reflection surface 66d include shades 66e and 66f respectively.

(680) The rear end portion 66a of the lens body 66.sub.L1 includes an entrance portion AA through which the light from the light source 14 enters the lens body 66.sub.L1, and a reflection surface 66a3 on which the light from the light source 14, which entered the lens body 66.sub.L1 through the entrance portion AA, is internally reflected (total reflection).

(681) FIG. 100A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the lens body 66.sub.L1, and FIG. 100B is a lateral cross-sectional view thereof.

(682) As illustrated in FIG. 100A and FIG. 100B, the entrance portion AA includes a first entrance surface 66a1 which curves upward toward the light source 14, and a second entrance surface 66a2 which has a cylindrical shape which extends backward from the outer periphery of the first entrance surface 66a1, and surrounds the space between the light source 14 and the first entrance surface 66a1.

(683) The reflection surface 66a3 is disposed outside the second entrance source 66a2, and internally reflects (total reflection) the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 66.sub.L1 through the second entrance surface 66a2.

(684) The front end portion 66b of the lens body 66.sub.L1 includes the emission surface 66b1.

(685) The entrance portion AA (first entrance surface 66a and second entrance surface 66a2), the reflection surface 66a3, the upper reflection surface 66c, the vertical reflection surface 66d, and the front end portion 66b (emission surface 66b1) constitute an optical system, which forms the ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.L1, including the cut-off lines CL.sub.66e and CL.sub.66f specified by the shade 66e of the upper reflection surface 66c and the shade 66f of the vertical reflection surface 66d, on the lower edge and on one side edge (side edge on the vertical line V side in FIG. 99A) of the pattern, as illustrated in FIG. 99A, when the light partially shielded by the shade 66e of the upper reflection surface 66c and the shade 66f of the vertical reflection surface 66d and the light internally reflected by the upper reflection surface 66c and the vertical reflection surface 66d, out of the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 66.sub.L1 through the entrance portion AA (first entrance surface 66a and the second entrance surface 66a2), are emitted from the front end portion 66b and are irradiated forward.

(686) In concrete terms, the first entrance surface 66a1, the second entrance surface 66a2, the reflection surface 66a3, the upper reflection surface 66c, the vertical reflection surface 66d and the emission surface 66b1 constitute an optical system, which forms the ADB light distribution pattern P.sub.L1, including the cut-off lines CL.sub.66e and CL.sub.66f specified by the shade 66e of the upper reflection surface 66c and the shade 66f of the vertical reflection surface 66d, on the lower edge and on one side edge (side edge on the vertical line V side in FIG. 99A) of the pattern, as illustrated in FIG. 99A, when the light partially shielded by the shade 66e of the upper reflection surface 66c and the shade 66f of the vertical reflection surface 66d and the light internally reflected (total reflection) by the upper reflection surface 66c and the vertical reflection surface 66d, out of the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 66.sub.L1 through the first entrance surface 66a1 and the light from the light source 14 which entered the lens body 66.sub.L1 through the second entrance surface 66a2 and internally reflected (total reflection) by the reflection surface 66a3, are emitted from the emission surface 66b1 and are irradiated forward.

(687) The emission surface 66b1 is configured as a curved lens surface which extends forward. The focal point F.sub.66b1 of the emission surface 66b1 is located near the intersection of the shade 66e of the upper reflection surface 66c and the shade 66f of the vertical reflection surface 66d (see FIG. 100A, FIG. 100B). The optical axis AX.sub.66b1 of the emission surface 66b1 matches the reference axis AX.sub.66 which extends toward the front-back direction of the vehicle.

(688) The first entrance surface 66a1 is a surface through which the light from the light source 14 is refracted and enters the lens body 66.sub.L1, and is configured as a curved surface (e.g. free-form surface) which extends toward the light source 14. In concrete terms, the surface shape of the first entrance surface 66a1 is configured such that the light from the light source 14, which entered the lens body 66.sub.L1 through the first entrance surface 66a1, converges near the focal point F.sub.66b1 of the emission surface 66b1 in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction (see FIG. 100A and FIG. 100B). The surface shape of the first entrance surface 66a1 is by no means limited to this, and may be configured such that the light from the light source 14, which entered the lens body 66.sub.u through the first entrance surface 66a1, is collimated in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction.

(689) The second entrance surface 66a2 is a surface through which the light not entering the first entrance surface 66a1, out of the light from the light source 14, is refracted and enters the lens body 66.sub.L1, and is configured as a cylindrical surface (e.g. free-form surface), which extends backward from the outer periphery of the first entrance surface 66a1 and surrounds the space between the light source 14 and the first entrance surface 66a1.

(690) The reflection surface 66a3 is disposed outside the second entrance surface 66a2 and internally reflects (total reflection) the light from the light source 14 which enters the lens body 66.sub.L1 through the second entrance surface 66a2, and is not formed by metal deposition. In concrete terms, the surface shape of the reflection surface 66a3 is configured such that the light from the light source 14, which entered the lens body 66.sub.L1 through the second entrance surface 66a2 and is internally reflected (total reflection) by the reflection surface 66a3, is condensed near the focal point F.sub.66b1 of the emission surface 66b1 in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction (see FIG. 100A and FIG. 100B). The surface shape of the reflection surface 66a3 is by no means limited to this, and may be configured such that the light from the light source 14, which is internally reflected by the reflection surface 66a3, is collimated in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction.

(691) The shade 66e of the upper reflection surface 66c and the shade 66f of the vertical reflection surface 66d are included in a plane perpendicular to the reference axis AX.sub.66. The cross-section of the lens body 66.sub.L1 sectioned by this plane has an approximately rectangular shape, which includes the shade 66e (edge) of the upper reflection surface 66c and the shade 66f (edge) of the vertical reflection surface 66d.