JP2001153690A - Pointer lighting system for vehicular meter - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the color mixing property in the illumination of a pointer by using a plurality of LEDs of different colors as light source and mixing the emitted colors thereof. SOLUTION: LED units 122 are arranged within a first range and a third range so that they are substantially point symmetric to the end surface of the shaft part 32b of a pointer 32 when seen from the center of the end surface of the shaft part 32b, and the LEDs 124R, 124B, and 124G of every color of both the LED units 122 are arranged in the reversed order when seen from the center of the end surface of the shaft part 32b. Other LED units 122 are further arranged so that they are extended in the direction substantially orthogonal to both the LED units 122 arranged in the first and third ranges and substantially point symmetric when seen from the center of the end surface of the shaft part 32b, and the LEDs 124R, 124B and 124G of every color of both the LED units 122 are arranged in the reversed order when seen from the center of the end surface of the shaft part 32b.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter, and more particularly, to a pointer illuminating device for illuminating the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from an end surface of a rotating shaft of the pointer.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a so-called edge light illuminating device as a pointer illuminating device for a vehicular meter, particularly a vehicular meter. In this illuminating device, the pointer portion of the pointer is formed of a light guide made of transparent plastic, and a reflection surface made of a colored coating layer is provided on the back surface (lower surface) of the pointer portion.
In addition, one end of a light introducing member composed of a light guide is disposed around the rotation axis of the pointer in opposition, and the other end is disposed opposite to a light source (mainly a lamp bulb) for illuminating a dial (particularly characters and scales). Set up. Then, the light from the light source is concentrated and incident on the rotation axis of the pointer by the light introducing member. The incident light is reflected toward the tip of the pointer by a reflection surface provided on the surface side (upper surface side) of the rotation axis of the pointer, and is irregularly reflected by the reflection surface of the colored coating layer on the lower surface of the pointer. Thus, the entire pointer portion of the pointer can be illuminated with the emission color of the light source.

Further, in the conventional edge light illuminating device, the distance from the light source to the light introducing member is increased so as to increase the efficiency of light incident on the light introducing member and the efficiency of reflection by each reflecting surface in order to increase the illumination efficiency. The length is shortened as much as possible, and the surface accuracy of the light introducing member is increased. In some cases, a fluorescent paint having a high reflectance is used as the paint for the reflective surface of the pointer. Further, since the pointer rotates, the light source is arranged not only at one place but also in the opposite direction so that the pointer is illuminated with a constant brightness regardless of which scale the pointer indicates. .

[0004]

On the other hand, in recent years, with the diversification of users' hobbies and preferences, it has been required to provide a wide variety of illumination colors even in a pointer illumination device such as an automobile meter. . Here, in the edge light illuminating device, a plurality of light sources of different colors are prepared, and in addition to its own luminescent color, the plurality of luminescent colors are appropriately mixed to obtain various luminescent colors (mixed colors). Thus, it is conceivable that one of the colors can be appropriately selected as the illumination color of the pointer. However, conventional lamp bulbs
Since the size is large and the number of arrangements increases, the space for the increase increases the size of the meter, which contradicts the recent demand for thinner and lighter meters.

Therefore, the present inventors have proposed a light emitting diode (hereinafter, referred to as a light source for various illuminations) which has recently been attracting attention as a light source for various illuminations in view of its small size, long life, low power consumption and high reliability. We have considered using an LED as a light source for such a pointer lighting device. In addition, LED
Is not as good as a lamp bulb in terms of brightness and light quantity, and therefore, it is not possible to obtain sufficient illuminance simply by replacing the conventional lamp bulb with an LED. Therefore, the present inventors illuminate the pointer with sufficient illuminance, and particularly,
In order to obtain uniform color mixture when ED light is mixed, LED
In particular, we added research to the configuration of the
The present invention has been accomplished.

That is, the present invention provides a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter which uses a plurality of LEDs of different colors as a light source and improves the color mixing when a plurality of luminescent colors are mixed to perform pointer illumination. It is an issue.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter, which illuminates the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from an end surface of a rotating shaft of the pointer. An LED in which a plurality of LEDs are linearly arranged in a predetermined order
Use the unit. In addition, a plurality of the LED units are disposed at predetermined intervals in the rotation direction, facing the end face of the rotating shaft, and the plurality of LED units are arranged in respective colors in the rotating direction of the end face of the rotating shaft. The LEDs are arranged in a positional relationship such that the LEDs are substantially evenly present.

Here, the "positional relationship in which the LEDs of each color are present substantially uniformly in the direction of rotation of the end face of the rotary shaft" means, for example, that the end face of the rotary shaft is divided or divided into a plurality at predetermined angular intervals. When viewed, it refers to a positional relationship in which approximately the same number of LEDs of each color exist in each section (ie, do not concentrate on a specific section). At the same time, it refers to a positional relationship in which substantially the same number of LEDs of the same color arranged in each section are not unevenly distributed when viewed from the entire end face of the rotating shaft and are uniformly arranged at a uniform density over the entire end face.

Therefore, when the LED of the LED unit emits light, the LED light from each of the plurality of LED units enters the corresponding area of the end face of the rotating shaft, respectively.
Spread across the pointer and illuminate the entire pointer. In addition, since lights of different colors are usually incident from the LEDs of each LED unit, the hands are illuminated by the light of the mixed colors.

At this time, since the plurality of LED units are arranged at predetermined intervals in the direction of rotation of the rotating shaft, the light of each LED unit is evenly and uniformly incident on the hands regardless of the angular position of the rotating shaft. In addition, since the plurality of LED units are arranged in a positional relationship such that the LEDs of each color are substantially evenly arranged in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotating shaft, the emission colors of the LEDs are uniformly mixed.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lighting device for a vehicle meter, which illuminates the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from the end face of the rotating shaft of the pointer. LED units arranged linearly are used. Further, when the end face of the rotary shaft of the pointer is divided into four equal parts at 90-degree intervals, the first range, the second range, the third range, and the fourth range are arranged in the rotation direction in that order. The LED units are disposed so as to be substantially point-symmetric with respect to the center of the end surface of the rotation shaft with respect to the first range and the third range, respectively. The LEDs of each color are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. Furthermore, for the second range and the fourth range, the LED unit is
The LED units are disposed so as to extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the LED units disposed in the first and third ranges, and to be substantially point-symmetrical when viewed from the center of the end surface of the rotating shaft. The LEDs of each color of the LED unit are arranged in reverse order when viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter.
Four LED units are provided. That is, each of the first to fourth ranges of the end face of the rotating shaft is opposed to each other,
Each one LED unit is provided.

When the LED of the LED unit emits light, the light of the LED from each of the four LED units enters the first to fourth ranges of the end face of the rotating shaft, and spreads over the entire pointer. Illuminate the entire pointer. In addition, since lights of different colors are usually incident from the LEDs of each LED unit, the hands are illuminated by the light of the mixed colors.

At this time, four LED units are arranged at intervals of 90 degrees in the direction of rotation of the rotating shaft. In addition, the pair of LED units (first pair of LED units) arranged in the first range and the third range are point-symmetric with respect to the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. Similarly, another pair of LED units (a second pair of LED units) arranged in the second range and the fourth range are point-symmetric with respect to the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. Further, the first pair of LED units and the second pair of LED units are disposed so as to extend in directions substantially orthogonal to each other. As a result, the end face of the rotating shaft is 90
When divided or divided into four at a degree interval, the same number of LEDs of each color exist in each division range (that is, do not concentrate on a specific division).

Further, in the first pair of LED units and the second pair of LED units arranged in the above-described manner, the LEDs of each color are arranged in reverse order from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. They are arranged linearly in a line. That is,
Of the two LED units of each pair, one LED unit has a first color LED (for example, a blue LED) disposed on the center side of the rotation axis, and a second color or later LED (for example, a red LED). And the green LED) are sequentially arranged from the center of the rotation shaft toward the outer periphery, and the LED of the first color of the other LED unit is located on the opposite side (outer periphery) of the center of the rotation shaft. The LEDs of the second and subsequent colors are sequentially arranged from the outer peripheral side of the rotating shaft toward the center.

Therefore, in each pair of LED units, the LEDs of each color (same color) are arranged in a positional relationship such that they are substantially even in the direction of rotation of the end face of the rotating shaft. As a result, the LEDs of each color are arranged in a “substantially uniform positional relationship” in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotation shaft. And the light of each LED unit is irrespective of the angular position of the rotation axis,
The light enters the hands evenly and evenly, and the emission colors of each LED are evenly mixed.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an illuminating device for a vehicle meter for illuminating the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from the end face of the rotating shaft of the pointer. LED units arranged linearly are used. In addition, when the end face of the rotation axis of the pointer is divided into three equal parts at 120-degree intervals, the first range, the second range, and the third range that are sequentially arranged in the rotation direction are the first range. The LED unit is arranged in the range of. Further, for the second range and the third range, the L
The ED unit is disposed so as to extend in a direction intersecting the LED unit disposed in the first range. Then, among the LED units arranged in the first to third ranges, at least two adjacent LED units are arranged such that LEDs of each color are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the rotation shaft. .

According to the third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter, wherein:
Three LED units are provided. That is, each of the first to third ranges of the end face of the rotating shaft is opposed to each other,
Each one LED unit is provided.

When the LED of the LED unit emits light, the light of the LED from each of the three LED units enters the first to third ranges on the end face of the rotating shaft, and spreads over the entire pointer. Illuminate the entire pointer. In addition, since lights of different colors are usually incident from the LEDs of each LED unit, the hands are illuminated by the light of the mixed colors.

At this time, three LED units are arranged at intervals of 120 degrees in the direction of rotation of the rotating shaft. Also, the first
The pair of LED units disposed in the second and third ranges are disposed so as to extend in the crossing direction with respect to the LED units disposed in the range. As a result, when the end face of the rotation shaft is divided or divided into three at 120-degree intervals, the same number of LEDs of each color exist in each division range (that is, they do not concentrate on a specific division).

[0021] Of the three LED units in the first to third ranges arranged in the above-described manner, at least two adjacent LED units each have:
The LEDs of each color are arranged linearly so as to be arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. That is, two adjacent L
Among the ED units, the LED of the first color (for example, blue LED) of one of the LED units is disposed on the center side of the rotation axis, and the LEDs of the second color and later (for example, red LED and green LED) are When sequentially arranged from the center of the rotation shaft toward the outer periphery, the LED of the first color of the other LED unit is arranged on the opposite side (outer periphery) of the center of the rotation shaft, and The LEDs of the colors after are arranged in order from the outer peripheral side of the rotating shaft toward the center.

Therefore, in the three LED units, the LEDs of each color (the same color) are arranged in a positional relationship such that they are substantially even in the direction of rotation of the end face of the rotating shaft. As a result, the LEDs of each color are arranged in a “substantially uniform positional relationship” in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotation shaft. And the light of each LED unit is irrespective of the angular position of the rotation axis,
The light enters the hands evenly and evenly, and the emission colors of each LED are evenly mixed.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an illuminating device for a vehicle meter for illuminating the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from the end face of the rotating shaft of the pointer. LED units arranged linearly are used. Further, when the end face of the rotation axis of the pointer is bisected at an interval of 180 degrees, the LED units are respectively disposed with respect to a first range and a second range which are sequentially arranged in the rotation direction. The LEDs are arranged so as to be parallel to each other at opposing positions, and the LEDs of each color of the two LED units are arranged in reverse order.

Therefore, in the pointer illumination device for a vehicle meter according to the fourth aspect, the pointer faces the end surface of the rotating shaft,
Two LED units are provided. That is, each of the first range and the second range of the end face of the rotating shaft is opposed to each other,
Each one LED unit is provided.

When the LED of the LED unit emits light, the LED light from each of the two LED units enters the first and second ranges of the end face of the rotating shaft, and spreads over the entire pointer. Illuminate the entire pointer. In addition, since lights of different colors are usually incident from the LEDs of each LED unit, the hands are illuminated by the light of the mixed colors.

At this time, the two LED units are arranged at 180-degree intervals in the direction of rotation of the rotating shaft. Also, the first
The LED unit disposed in the range and the LED unit disposed in the second range are disposed so as to be parallel to each other at opposing positions. As a result, the end face of the rotating shaft is 18
When divided or divided into two at an interval of 0 degrees, the same number of LEDs of each color exist in each divided range (that is, do not concentrate on a specific divided area).

Further, in the two LED units in the first and second ranges arranged in the above-described manner, the LEDs of each color are linearly arranged in a reverse order. That is, the LED of the first color (for example, blue L
ED) is disposed on the upper side, and when LEDs of the second and subsequent colors (for example, red LED and green LED) are sequentially disposed downward, the L of the first color of the other LED unit is changed.
The ED is disposed on the lower side, and the LEDs of the second color and thereafter are sequentially disposed toward the upper side.

Therefore, in each of the two LED units, the LEDs of each color (the same color) are arranged in a positional relationship such that they are substantially even in the direction of rotation of the end face of the rotating shaft. As a result, the LEDs of each color are arranged in a “substantially uniform positional relationship” in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotation shaft. And the light of each LED unit is irrespective of the angular position of the rotation axis,
The light enters the hands evenly and evenly, and the emission colors of each LED are evenly mixed.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lighting device for a vehicle meter according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the plurality of LEDs of different colors of the LED units are blue, red,
Each of the LED units is constituted by a green color LED, and the blue, red,
Each green LED was linearly mounted in that order.

Therefore, each LED unit can emit light of any color including white by the LEDs of the three primary colors. In addition, since the LED unit is configured by mounting and integrating the LED on the base, handling (arranging, assembling, and the like) of the LED unit becomes easy. Therefore,
Each LED unit can be easily attached to a predetermined position.

[0031]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. Throughout the embodiments, the same or corresponding members or elements are denoted by the same or corresponding reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted.

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a vehicle meter to which a pointer lighting device for a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is a front view showing a dial plate of an automobile meter to which the pointer illumination device for a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied. FIG. 3 is a side view showing a dial plate of an automobile meter to which the pointer illumination device for a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied.

As shown in FIG. 1, the pointer lighting device for a vehicle meter according to the first embodiment is applied to a vehicle meter such as a combination meter. As shown in FIG. 1, the automotive meter includes a meter case (not shown) made of a non-transparent resin, and a return plate 50 mounted on the front side of the meter case. A tachometer section 20 is provided on the left side in the meter case. The tachometer section 20 has a dial 21 and hands 22. Scales and letters indicating the engine speed are arranged at predetermined intervals on the outer periphery of the dial 21. Further, a speedometer section 30 is provided at a central portion in the meter case. The speedometer section 30 has a dial 31 and hands 32. Scales and characters indicating the vehicle speed are arranged at predetermined intervals on the outer periphery of the dial 31. Further, a fuel gauge 40 and a water temperature gauge 45 are disposed on the right side of the meter case 10 as auxiliary meter sections. The fuel gauge 40 has a dial 41 and hands 4
And 2. Scales and characters indicating the remaining fuel amount are arranged on the outer peripheral portion of the dial 41 at predetermined intervals. The water thermometer 45 has a dial 46 and a pointer 47. Scales and characters indicating the temperature of the cooling water are arranged on the outer peripheral portion of the dial 46 at predetermined intervals. Note that the pointers 22, 3
2, 42, 47 are shaft portions 22b, 32b, 42b, 47
b and pointers 22d, 32d, 42d, 47d.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG.
Has a case shape made of a non-transparent resin, and has a flat mask portion 51 on the rear end side. The mask section 51 includes the tachometer section 20, the speedometer 30 section, and the fuel gauge 40.
And an opening 5 at a position corresponding to the water thermometer 45, respectively.
2, 53, 54 and 55 are formed. Then, the dials 21, 31, 41, 46 and the hands 22, 32, 42, 4 of the tachometer section 20, the speedometer 30, the fuel gauge 40 and the water temperature gauge 45 are passed through the openings 52, 53, 54, 55.
7 is exposed. Further, the openings 52, 5 of the mask portion 51
Of the 3, 54, 55 peripheral edges, the hands 22, 32, 4
The positions corresponding to the shaft portions 22b, 32b, 42b, 47b of the shaft portions 22b, 32b, 42b, 47b are located at positions corresponding to the shaft portions 22b, 32b, 42b, 47b.
shielding plates 52A, 53 for shielding b from the front (driver side)
A, 54A and 55A are integrally formed.

A pair of left and right screwing portions 56 are integrally formed at predetermined intervals on the upper end edge of the back surface of the return plate 50. In a circular hole formed through the center of each screwing portion 56,
The return plate 50 is fixed to the meter case by inserting fasteners such as screws and screws and screwing it to the meter case. In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of locking claws 57 are integrally formed at predetermined intervals in the vicinity of the outer peripheral edge on the back side of the return plate 50 so as to protrude rearward (meter case side). . That is, the hooking claws 57 are integrally formed at one central position and two right and left positions at the upper end of the return plate 50, respectively. In addition, locking claws 57 are integrally formed at two places at the center and two places on the left and right of the lower end of the return plate 50, respectively. A cover lens (not shown) is attached to an opening on the front side of the return plate 50.

Next, various meter sections 20, 30, 40, 4
The configuration of the dial illuminating device for illuminating the dials 21, 31, 41, 46 of No. 5 will be described. FIG. 4 is a rear view showing the pointer lighting device of the vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention together with the structure on the rear side of the dial plate of the vehicle meter.

The dial illuminator includes light guide rings 60, 70, 80, and 85, as indicated by broken lines in FIG.
The light guide rings 60, 70, 80, and 85 are formed by integrally molding a predetermined light guide such as a transparent acrylic resin into a substantially horseshoe shape or an arc shape, and respectively include a tachometer section 20, a speedometer section 30, and a fuel gauge. It is provided corresponding to 40 and the water thermometer 45. That is, the light guide rings 60, 70, 80, 85
Is formed so that its inner diameter is slightly smaller than the corresponding openings 52, 53, 54, 55. The light guide rings 60, 70, 80, 85 are connected to the openings 52,
Arranged and fixed along the periphery of 53, 54, 55,
As shown in FIG. 1, the inner peripheral surface has openings 52, 53, 5
4, 55, it is slightly inwardly exposed.

As shown in FIG. 4, LED cases 90 are attached to both ends of the light guide ring 60 for the tachometer section 20 and the light guide ring 70 for the speedometer section 30, respectively. An LED case 90 is attached to one end (upper end) of the light guide ring 80 for the fuel gauge 40 and the light guide ring 85 for the water temperature gauge 45, respectively. LED
The case 90 is formed in a rectangular cylindrical shape having upper and lower ends opened from a resin material. Light guide ring 6 for LED case 90
The LED case 90 is fitted to the respective ends of the light guide rings 60, 70, 8 by fitting them into the respective ends of the light guide rings 60, 70, 80, 85.
0 and 85 are held in close contact with each end.

An LED (not shown) as a light source is accommodated in a lower end portion of the LED case 90.
Light guide ring 60, 70, 80, 85 through LED 0
To be attached to both ends. Each LED is mounted on a flexible print board 100, 105 described later.

Next, a description will be given of a configuration of a pointer lighting device for a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line XX of FIG. 4 and shows a mounted state of the pointer lighting device of the vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view of a main part of FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the pointer illuminating device according to the present embodiment has respective meter sections 20, 30, 40, and 45.
Shaft portions 22b, 32b of the hands 22, 32, 42, 47 of
Light is introduced into the hands 22, 32, 42, 47 from the end face of the rotating shaft 32a integrally fixed to the hands 42b, 47b, and illuminates the entire hands 22, 32, 42, 47 (the speedometer section 30). ). First, the configuration of the pointer 32 itself will be described. The pointer 32 is a rotary shaft 32 operatively connected to a drive shaft (not shown) for rotating the pointer.
a, a cylindrical shaft portion 32b fixed to the rotating shaft 32a so as to be integrally rotatable, and a pointer portion 32d integrally formed so as to extend in the radial direction of the shaft portion 32b. The shaft 32b and the pointer 32d are integrally formed from a predetermined light guide such as a transparent acrylic resin. In addition, a reflection surface 32c that is inclined from the front side (the shield plate 53A side) toward the rear side (the dial 31 side) toward the pointer 32d is formed inside the shaft portion 32b. Further, a reflection surface 32e made of a white paint layer, an aluminum deposition layer, or the like is formed on the entire rear surface of the pointer 32a.

When light is incident from the front surface of the shaft portion 32b, the incident light is reflected by the reflection surface 32c and is reflected by the pointer portion 32c.
d, and travels through the pointer portion 32d in its length direction. The light that has traveled inside the pointer 32d is reflected by the reflecting surface 32d.
e and is radiated forward from the front surface of the pointer 32d. Thus, the pointer 32 is illuminated.

The pointer illuminating device according to the present embodiment includes a pair of flexible printed boards 100 and 105, an LED subassembly 110 for the tachometer section 20, an LED subassembly 120 for the speedometer section 30, and a fuel gauge 4.
An LED sub-assembly 130 for the water temperature gauge 45 and an LED sub-assembly 135 for the water thermometer 45 are provided. As shown in FIG. 4, the LED subassembly 110 has a shaft portion 22b of the pointer 22 on the back surface of the shielding plate 52A of the tachometer portion 20.
It is arranged to face. LED subassembly 12
0 is on the back surface of the shielding plate 53A of the speedometer section 30,
It is arranged so as to face the shaft 32b of the pointer 32. LE
The D sub-assembly 130 includes a shielding plate 54A of the fuel gauge 40.
Is arranged on the back surface of the hand so as to face the shaft portion 42b of the pointer 42. The LED subassembly 135 is disposed on the back surface of the shielding plate 55 </ b> A of the water temperature gauge 45 so as to face the shaft 47 b of the pointer 47.

The flexible printed circuit board 100 includes:
It has a short-band-shaped terminal portion 101 and a connection portion 102. The connection unit 102 is connected to each of the LED subassemblies 120 disposed on the speedometer unit 30, the fuel gauge 40, and the water temperature gauge 45,
130, 135 and each L of the light guide ring 70, 80, 85
The ED case 90 has a multi-limbed sheet shape having limb portions extending respectively. The flexible printed board 105 has a short-band-shaped terminal portion 106 and a connection portion 107. The connection unit 107 is connected to the LED subassembly 110 provided in the tachometer unit 20 and the LE of the light guide ring 60.
It has a multi-limbed sheet shape having limb portions extending to the D case 90 respectively.

Each flexible printed circuit board 100, 10
5 is a mask part 51 and shielding plates 52A, 53A, 54
A and 55A are arranged and shielded on the back side, so that they are not visible from the front (driver side). Further, each of the flexible printed boards 100 and 105 includes a mask unit 5.
1 and the rear surfaces of the shielding plates 52A, 53A, 54A, 55A and the dials 21, 31, 41, 46 so as not to contact or interfere with the dials 21, 31, 41, 46. Has become.

Next, the manner in which the LED subassembly 120 is attached to the shielding plate 53A and the configuration thereof will be described in detail.
FIG. 7 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a speedometer section of the illumination device for a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 7, the LED sub-assembly 120 includes a flat support base 121 having an outer shape corresponding to the shielding plate 53A, and a surface of the support base 121 (the dial 3).
1 or the pointer 32 side) in a predetermined manner.
And a D unit 122. The support base 121 is disposed on the back side of the shield plate 53A so as to overlap with the shield plate 53A and be shielded from the front side (driver side). That is, as shown in FIG. 6, a rib 53a is integrally formed on the back surface of the shielding plate 53A, and columnar projections are integrally formed on the center of the upper end and on the left and right sides of the lower end. On the other hand, through holes are integrally formed at the center of the upper end portion and at the left and right of the lower end portion of the support base 121 at positions matching the columnar projections (not shown). Then, the support base 121 is
When the columnar projections 53b are inserted into the respective through holes of the support base 121 while being placed on the ribs 53a of FIG.
b protrudes from the back surface of the support base 121 by a predetermined height. In this way, the support base 121 is shielded by shielding the distal end of the columnar projection 53b by heat.
To be fixed to the back side. At this time, the support base 121 is completely shielded by the shielding plate 53A, and is not visually recognized from the front.

Each of the LED units 122 includes a unit base 123 and a plurality of LEDs 124 B and 124 of different colors which are linearly mounted and arranged on the unit base 123 in a predetermined order.
R, 124G. That is, the unit base 123
Has a rectangular plate shape, and a blue LED 1
24B, red LED124R, green LED124G,
In this order, they are mounted so as to be aligned on a straight line at a predetermined interval. The blue LED 124B and the red LED 1
24R and the green LED 124G are chip LEDs. In addition, the LED unit 122 is provided with the three primary colors L.
The EDs 124B, 124R, and 124G constitute a multicolor LED capable of freely emitting any color including white.

In the present embodiment, the LED subassembly 120 for the speedometer section 30 moves the end surface of the shaft portion 32b of the pointer 32, which is the end surface of the rotation shaft 32a of the pointer 32, by 90 degrees in the rotation direction (circumferential direction). The first range (upper right quadrant), the second range (lower right quadrant), and the third range (lower left corner), which are arranged in the rotation direction when the quadrant is quartered at intervals of degrees. Out of the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b with respect to the first range and the third range of the fourth range (upper left quadrant). They are arranged so as to be approximately point-symmetrical when viewed. That is, in the vicinity of the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b, a radial line extending in the horizontal direction of the quadrant of the first range (indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 7)
The LED unit 122 is disposed in parallel directly above the. In addition, the LED unit 122 is disposed in parallel near the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b and directly below a radial line extending in the horizontal direction of the third range quadrant. Thereby, the first
A pair of LED units 122 arranged to face the third range extend in the left-right direction in FIG.

Further, the L of each color of both LED units 122 is
The EDs 124B, 124R, and 124G are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. That is,
In the LED unit 122 of the first range, the LED of each color
124B, 124R, and 124G are arranged in the left-right direction in the order of green, red, and blue when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. On the other hand, in the LED units 122 in the third range, the LEDs 124B, 124R, 12
4G are arranged in the left-right direction in the order of blue, red, and green when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b.

Further, the second and fourth ranges of the end face of the shaft portion 32b are respectively set to the LED unit 1
22 are arranged so as to extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the two LED units 122 arranged in the first and third ranges, and to be substantially point-symmetric with respect to the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. . That is, near the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b, the LED unit 122 is disposed in parallel to the right of the radius line extending in the vertical direction of the quadrant in the second range. Also, the shaft portion 32b
In the vicinity of the center of the end face, the LED unit 122 is arranged in parallel to the left of the radius line extending in the vertical direction of the quadrant in the fourth range. As a result, the pair of LED units 122 disposed so as to face the second and fourth ranges is configured as shown in FIG.
Extends in the vertical direction inside. That is, it extends in a direction orthogonal to the pair of LED units 122 disposed to face the first and third ranges.

In addition, the LEDs 124B, 124R, and 124G of each color of both LED units 122 are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. That is, in the LED unit 122 in the second range, the L
The EDs 124B, 124R, and 124G are arranged in the vertical direction in the order of green, red, and blue when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. On the other hand, in the LED unit 122 in the third range, the LEDs 124B, 124R,
124G is blue, when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b,
They are arranged so as to be arranged vertically in the order of red and green.

As described above, in this embodiment, the four LED units 122 are arranged in a so-called windmill or swastika shape.

FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a tachometer section LED subassembly of the vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 8, the LED subassembly 110 has a flat support base 111 having an outer shape corresponding to the shielding plate 52A, and a surface (the dial 2) of the support base 111.
1 or the pointer 22 side) in a predetermined manner
And a D unit 112. The support base 111 includes an LED subassembly 120 for the speedometer section 30.
In the same manner as in the above case, it is arranged on the back side of the shielding plate 52A so as to overlap with the shielding plate 52A and to be shielded from the front side (driver side). That is, the support base 111 is placed on the ribs (not shown) of the shield plate 52A, and the respective columnar projections 52b of the shield plate 52A are inserted into the respective through holes (not shown) of the support base 111, so that The supporting base 111 is fixed to the back surface side of the shielding plate 52A by heat-staking the tip. At this time, the support base 11
1 is completely shielded by the shield plate 52A and is not visually recognized from the front.

Each of the LED units 112 includes a unit base 113 and a plurality of LEDs 114B and 114 of different colors which are linearly mounted and arranged on the unit base 113 in a predetermined order.
R, 114G. That is, the unit base 113
Has a rectangular plate shape, and a blue LED 1
14B, red LED114R, green LED114G,
In this order, they are mounted so as to be aligned on a straight line at a predetermined interval.

In this embodiment, the tachometer section 20
LED subassembly 110 is arranged in the rotation direction when the end surface of the shaft portion 22b as the end surface of the rotation shaft of the pointer 22 is divided into three equal parts at 120 ° intervals in the rotation direction (circumferential direction). First range (upper triangular), second
Of the LED unit 1 with respect to the first range in the range (lower right triangle) and the third range (lower left triangle).
12 are arranged. That is, in the vicinity of the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b, L is located just above the center of a pair of radial lines (indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 8) extending obliquely upward at 45 degrees from the third circle of the first range.
The ED unit 112 is disposed so as to extend in the left-right direction in FIG.

Further, the LED units 112 are provided in the second range and the third range, respectively, so as to extend in a direction intersecting the LED units 112 provided in the first range. That is, near the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b, the LED unit 112 is disposed in parallel to the right of the radius line extending in the vertical direction of the third circle in the second range. The LED unit 112 is disposed in parallel with the third area in the vicinity of the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b, immediately to the left of a radial line extending in the vertical direction of the third circle. As a result, the LED unit 112 disposed to face the second and third ranges
Extend in the vertical direction in FIG. That is, it extends in a direction intersecting (perpendicular to) the LED unit 112 disposed to face the first range.

In this embodiment, the LED unit 112 is disposed so as to extend in the left-right direction with respect to the first range of the end face of the shaft 22b. In addition, the second and third
In the range, the LED units 112 are vertically arranged at positions opposed to each other in parallel to each other, that is, arranged in parallel. Therefore, LEDs in the first range
The unit 112 and the pair of LED units 112 in the second and third ranges are arranged to extend in directions orthogonal to each other.

Further, the LEs disposed in the first to third ranges
At least two adjacent L units of the D unit 112
The ED unit 112 is connected to the LEDs 114B, 114 of each color.
R and 114G are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b. That is, in the LED units 112 in the second range, the LEDs 114B, 114R, 1
14G are arranged in the vertical direction in the order of green, red, and blue when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b. On the other hand, in the LED units 112 in the third range, the L
The EDs 114B, 114R, and 114G are arranged in the vertical direction in the order of blue, red, and green when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft 22b. In the first range of the LED unit 112, the LEDs 114B, 114R,
114G are arranged in the left-right direction in the order of green, red, and blue from the left. The central red LED 114R is the shaft 2
2b is disposed near the center of the end face.

As described above, in the LED subassembly 110 for the tachometer section 20 according to the present embodiment, in the LED units 112 in the second range and the third range, the LEDs 114B, 114R, and 114G of each color are connected to the shaft portion 22b. They are arranged in reverse order when viewed from the center of the end face.

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a fuel meter LED subassembly of the vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 9, the LED sub-assembly 130 includes a flat support base 131 having an outer shape corresponding to the shielding plate 54A, and a surface (the dial 4) of the support base 131.
1 or the pointer 42 side) in a predetermined manner.
And a D unit 132. The support base 131 is provided with the LED subassembly 120 for the speedometer section 30.
In the same manner as in the above case, it is arranged on the back side of the shielding plate 54A so as to overlap with the shielding plate 54A and to be shielded from the front side (driver side). That is, the support base 131 is placed on the ribs (not shown) of the shielding plate 54A, and the columnar projections 54b of the shielding plate 54A are inserted into the respective through holes (not shown) of the support base 131, and The supporting base 131 is fixed to the back surface side of the shielding plate 54A by heat-staking the distal end portion. At this time, the support base 13
1 is completely shielded by the shielding plate 54A and is not visible from the front.

Each of the LED units 132 includes a unit base 133 and a plurality of LEDs 134 B and 134 of different colors which are linearly mounted and arranged on the unit base 133 in a predetermined order.
R, 134G. That is, the unit base 133
Has a rectangular plate shape, and a blue LED 1
34B, red LED134R, green LED134G,
In this order, they are mounted so as to be aligned on a straight line at a predetermined interval.

In the present embodiment, the LED subassembly 130 for the fuel meter 40 as the auxiliary meter unit is configured to move the end face of the shaft 42 b as the end face of the rotating shaft of the pointer 42 by 180 degrees in the rotation direction (circumferential direction). When the light is bisected at an interval of degrees, the LED unit 132 is placed in each of the first range (right half) and the second range (left half) arranged in the rotation direction. , Are arranged so as to be parallel to each other at opposing positions. That is, in the vicinity of the center of the end face of the shaft portion 42b, the LED unit 132 is located at the right of the center of the diameter line (indicated by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 9) extending vertically in FIG. Are arranged in parallel. Further, in the vicinity of the center of the end face of the shaft portion 42b, the LED unit 132 is disposed in parallel to the right and left of the center of the diameter line extending in the up-down direction in the second range of the divisor.

In this embodiment, the LED units 132 are arranged in parallel with each other so as to extend in the vertical direction in parallel with each other at a position facing the first range and the second range of the end face of the shaft portion 42b. Has been established. The LEDs 134B, 134R, and 134G of the respective colors of the LED unit 132 are used.
Are arranged in the same order. That is, the LED units 132 in the first and second ranges both
134B, 134R, 134G are green, red,
They are arranged in a vertical order in blue.

Although not shown, the configuration of the LED subassembly 135 for the water temperature gauge 45 is the same as the configuration of the LED subassembly 130 for the fuel gauge 40.

As described above, the LED subassembly 11
Reference numerals 0, 120, 130, and 135 denote the size and shape of the support base, the number and the arrangement of the LED units, and the like according to the types and dimensions of the meter units 20 and 30 or the meters 40 and 45 to be illuminated. Although different, the basic configuration is the same. That is, the LED subassemblies 110, 120,
130, 135 are shielding plates 52A, 53A,
By heat caulking the columnar projections 52b, 53b, 54b of 54A, 55A, the shielding plates 52A, 53A, 54
A, 55A. Further, the support base 111 of each LED subassembly 110, 120, 130, 135,
121 and 131 have the same configuration,
B, 114R, 114G and the like are formed of a base on which a predetermined wiring pattern for feeding power is formed on the front surface side.

Further, each LED subassembly 110, 1
20, 130, 135 LED units 112, 12
2, 132 have the same configuration. That is, the unit bases 113, 12 of the LED units 112, 122, 132
3 and 133, on the back surface side, are formed conductive portions that are electrically connected to the wiring patterns of the support bases 111, 121 and 131 when they are disposed and fixed on the support bases 111, 121 and 131.
The LE of each LED unit 112, 122, 132
D114B, 114R, 114G, 124B, 124
The same applies to the configurations of R, 124G, 134B, 134R, and 134G. That is, each LED 114B, 114R, 11
4G, 124B, 124R, 124G, 134B, 13
4R and 134G are composed of chip LEDs, mounted on the unit bases 111, 123 and 133,
1, 121 and 131 are electrically connected.

Further, in this embodiment, the tip of the limb of the connecting portion 102 of the flexible printed board 100 is
Support base 1 for D subassemblies 120, 130, 135
21 and 131, and are joined to the support bases 121 and 13
It is electrically connected to one wiring pattern. Then, under the control of a light emission control circuit (not shown), the flexible printed board 100 and the support boards 121 and 131
A current is supplied to the LED units 122 and 132 in a predetermined control manner, and the LEDs 124B, 124R, and 124 of each color are supplied.
G, 134B, 134R, and 134G emit light in a desired emission color and emission mode. Thereby, the LEDs 124B, 1
The light of 24R, 124G, 134B, 134R, 134G is applied to the shaft portions 32b, 42b, 47b of the hands 32, 42, 47.
Illuminate the hands 32, 42, and 47 by emitting light from the entire hands 32, 42, and 47 in the emission color and the light emission mode.

Similarly, the flexible printed circuit board 100
Are connected to the LED cases 90 of the light guide rings 70, 80, and 85 fixed to the dial plate 50, and are electrically connected to the LEDs in the LED cases 90. Then, under the control of the light emission control circuit, the LE
A current is supplied to the LED in the D case 90 in a predetermined control mode, and the LED emits light in a desired emission color and emission mode. As a result, the light of the LEDs in the LED case 90 is incident from the end faces of the light guide rings 70, 80, 85, and the entire light guide rings 70, 80, 85 emit light in the above-described emission color and emission mode. , 41, 46 are illuminated.

On the other hand, the tip of the limb of the connecting portion 107 of the flexible printed board 105 is
10 and joined to the surface side of the support base 111,
It is electrically connected to one wiring pattern. Then, under the control of the light emission control circuit, a current is supplied to the LED unit 112 in a predetermined control manner via the flexible printed board 105 and the support board 111, and the LED of each color is supplied.
The LEDs 114B, 114R, and 114G emit light in desired emission colors and emission modes. Thereby, the LEDs 114B, 114
Lights of R and 114G are incident on the end face of the shaft portion 22b of the pointer 22, and the entire pointer 22 emits light in the above-described emission color and light emission mode to illuminate the pointer 22.

Similarly, the flexible print board 105
Is connected to the LED case 90 of the light guide ring 60 fixed to the dial plate 50, and is electrically connected to the LED in the LED case 90. Then, under the control of the light emission control circuit, the LED case 90 is
A current is supplied to the LEDs in the LED in a predetermined control manner, and the
D emits light in a desired emission color and emission mode. Thereby, the light of the LED in the LED case 90 is guided to the light guide ring 60.
, And the entire light guide ring 60 emits light in the emission color and emission mode to illuminate the dial 21.

In this embodiment, the control operation by the light emission control circuit is performed by the operation knob 141 disposed at the right end of the dial plate 50 when viewed from the front. That is, when the user rotates the operation knob 141 appropriately, the terminal unit 10 of the flexible printed circuit boards 100 and 105 is controlled by the light emission control circuit.
A current is supplied from a power source to the first and the first 106 in a predetermined control manner, and the LEDs 114B, 114R and 114 for the pointer illumination are provided.
G, 124B, 124R, 124G, 134B, 134
The LEDs for R, 134G and dial illumination can emit light in a desired emission color and emission mode.

Next, the operation and effect of the pointer lighting device for a vehicle meter according to the first embodiment configured as described above will be described.

In the pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter according to the present embodiment, when illumination of the meters is required at night or the like,
When a user such as a driver rotates the operation knob 141, the LED units 112, 122, and 122 of each of the LED subassemblies 110, 120, 130, and 135 are controlled by the light emission control circuit via the flexible printed circuit boards 100 and 105. 132, 137 LEDs 114B, 1
14R, 114G, 124B, 124R, 124G, 1
34B, 134R, and 134G are driven to emit light. Then, the LEDs 114B, 114R, 114G, 124B,
The lights of 124R, 124G, 134B, 134R, and 134G are transmitted to the shafts 2 of the corresponding hands 22, 32, 42, and 47, respectively.
The light is incident on the end faces of 2b, 32b, 42b, 47b substantially orthogonally. Then, the incident light is transmitted to the shaft portions 22b, 32b, 4
2b and 47b, the light is reflected by the reflection surface 32c,
The light propagates in the length direction in the insides 32, 42 and 47. Then, the light is reflected by the reflection surfaces 32e of the hands 22, 32, 42, and 47.
And exits from the surfaces of the hands 22, 32, 42 and 47. Thus, the LEDs 114B, 114
R, 114G, 124B, 124R, 124G, 134
The entire hands 22, 32, 42, and 47 are illuminated by light of a predetermined emission color and emission mode emitted from B, 134R, and 134G.

At this time, in the present embodiment, the LED units 112, 122, 132, and 137 are
114B, 114R, 114G, 124B, 124R,
Since a multi-color LED having 124G, 134B, 134R, and 134G is used, and the color change control can be performed through the operation knob 141 by the light emission control circuit, the LE
The D units 112, 122, 132, 137 can freely emit light in a desired color. Therefore, the LED units 112, 1
The emission colors of 22, 132 and 137 are changed as necessary,
Each of the hands 22, 32, 42, and 47 of the automobile meter can be illuminated in a desired color. As a result, it is possible to diversify the design of the pointer illumination of the automobile meter and to exhibit various illumination effects. Note that each LE
The D units 112, 122, 132, and 137 can also emit monochromatic light of one of the three primary colors.
Two or three color LEDs 114B, 114R, 114
G, 124B, 124R, 124G, 134B, 134
Light is emitted by the mixed color of R and 134G.

In the above-mentioned lighting operation, four LED units 122 are arranged on the pointer 32 of the speedometer section 30 so as to face the end face of the shaft 32b of the pointer 32. That is, one LED unit 12 faces each of the first to fourth ranges of the end face of the shaft portion 32b.
2 are provided.

Then, the LED 1 of the LED unit 122
When the LEDs 24B, 124R, and 124G emit light, the LEDs 124B, 1
The lights of 24R and 124G are respectively incident on the first to fourth ranges of the end face of the shaft portion 32b, spread over the entire pointer 32, and illuminate the entire pointer 32. In addition, since lights of different colors are usually incident from the LEDs 124B, 124R, and 124G of the LED units 122, the hands 32 are illuminated by the mixed light.

At this time, the four LED units 122
Are disposed at intervals of 90 degrees in the rotation direction of the shaft portion 32b.
Further, a pair of LEs disposed in the first range and the third range are provided.
The D unit (first pair of LED units) 122 is point-symmetric with respect to the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. Similarly,
Another pair of LEDs arranged in the second range and the fourth range
The unit (second pair of LED units) 122 is point-symmetric with respect to the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. Furthermore, the first
Of LED units 122 and the second pair of LED units 122 are disposed so as to extend in directions substantially orthogonal to each other. Thus, when the end face of the shaft portion 32b is divided or divided into four at 90-degree intervals, the LED 124 of each color
B, 124R, and 124G exist in the same number for each section range (that is, do not concentrate on a specific section).

In the first pair of LED units 122 and the second pair of LED units 122 arranged in the above-described manner, the LEDs 124B,
124R and 124G are linearly arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. That is, of the two LED units 122 of each pair, one of the LED units 122 has the first color LED, for example, the blue LED 12
2B is disposed on the center side of the shaft portion 32b, and LEDs of the second and subsequent colors, for example, the red LED 124R and the green LED 1
When 24G are sequentially arranged from the center of the shaft portion 32b toward the outer periphery, the blue LED L of the other LED unit 122
The ED 122B is provided on the opposite side (outer peripheral side) of the shaft portion 32b from the center side, and includes a red LED 122R and a green LED 1.
22G are sequentially arranged from the outer peripheral side of the shaft portion 32b toward the center.

Therefore, in each pair of LED units 122, the LEDs 124B, 124R, 124 of the respective colors (same color)
G are arranged in a positional relationship such that they are substantially even in the rotation direction of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. Thereby, the shaft portion 32b
LED 124B, 124R,
124G are arranged in a “positional relationship such that they exist substantially equally”. The light of each LED unit 122 is evenly and uniformly incident on the pointer 32 irrespective of the angular position of the shaft portion 32b, and the LEDs 124B, 124R, 1
The 24G emission colors are evenly mixed. As a result, the entire pointer 32 can be evenly and uniformly illuminated by uniform color mixture.

On the other hand, the pointer 22 of the tachometer section 20
Three LEDs are opposed to the end face of the shaft 22b of the pointer 22.
A unit 112 is provided. That is, one LED unit 112 is disposed to face each of the first to third ranges of the end face of the shaft portion 22b.

Then, the LED 1 of the LED unit 112
When the LEDs 14B, 114R, and 114G emit light, the LEDs 114B, 1
Lights of 14R and 114G are respectively incident on the first to third ranges of the end face of the shaft portion 22b, spread over the entire pointer 22, and illuminate the entire pointer 22. In addition, since lights of different colors are normally incident from the LEDs 114B, 114R, and 114G of each LED unit 112, the hands 22 are illuminated by the mixed light.

At this time, the three LED units 112
Are arranged at 120-degree intervals in the rotation direction of the shaft portion 22b. Also, the LED unit 112 disposed in the first range
On the other hand, a pair of LED units 112 disposed in the second range and the third range are disposed so as to extend in the direction of intersection (orthogonal). Thereby, the shaft portion 22b
When the end face is divided or divided into three sections at 120-degree intervals, the same number of LEDs 114B, 114R, and 114G of each color exist in each section range (ie, do not concentrate on a specific section).

[0086] Of the three LED units 112 in the first to third ranges arranged in the above-described manner, at least two adjacent LED units 112 have LEDs 114B, 114R, and 11 of respective colors, respectively.
4G are linearly arranged in a reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b. That is, two adjacent LEDs
Among the units 112, the LED of the first color of one of the LED units 112, for example, the blue LED 114B is disposed on the center side of the shaft portion 22b, and the LEDs of the second and subsequent colors, for example, the red LED 114R and the green LED 114G, When sequentially arranged from the center of the shaft portion 22b toward the outer peripheral side, the blue LED 114B of the other LED unit 112
Is disposed on the opposite side (outer peripheral side) of the center of the shaft portion 22b, and the red LED 114R and the green LED 114G are
The shaft portions 22b are sequentially arranged from the outer peripheral side toward the center.

Therefore, in the three LED units 112, the LEDs 114B, 114R, 114 of the respective colors (same colors)
G are arranged in a positional relationship such that they are substantially even in the rotation direction of the end face of the shaft portion 22b. Thereby, the shaft portion 22b
LED 114B, 114R,
114G are arranged in a “positional relationship such that they exist substantially equally”. The light of each LED unit 112 is evenly and uniformly incident on the pointer 22 irrespective of the angular position of the shaft portion 22b, and the LEDs 114B, 114R, 1
The emission colors of 14G are evenly mixed. As a result, the entire pointer 22 can be evenly and uniformly illuminated by uniform color mixture.

Further, in the pointer 42 of the fuel meter 40, the pointer 4
Two LED units 132 are provided to face the end surfaces of the two shaft portions 42b. That is, the first end face of the shaft 132
One LED unit 132 is disposed to face each of the range and the second range.

Then, the LED 1 of the LED unit 132
When the LEDs 34B, 134R, and 134G emit light, the LEDs 134B, 1
Lights of 34R and 134G are respectively incident on the first and second ranges of the end face of the shaft portion 42b, spread over the entire pointer 42, and illuminate the entire pointer 42. In addition, since lights of different colors are normally incident from the LEDs 134B, 134R, and 134G of each LED unit 132, the hands 42 are illuminated by the mixed color light.

At this time, the two LED units 132
Are arranged at 180-degree intervals in the rotation direction of the shaft portion 42b. Further, the LED unit 132 disposed in the first range
And the LED unit 132 disposed in the second range,
They are arranged so as to be parallel to each other at opposing positions. Thereby, when the end face of the shaft portion 42b is divided or divided into two at 180 ° intervals, the LEDs 134B, 1
34R and 134G exist in the same number for each section range (that is, do not concentrate on a specific section).

Therefore, in the two LED units 132, the LEDs 134B, 134R, and 134 of the respective colors (same colors)
G are arranged in such a positional relationship that the same number exists in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotation shaft. And each LED unit 13
2 and the same amount of light enters the hands irrespective of the angular position of the shaft 42b, and the LEDs 134B, 134R,
The same amount of light from 134G is mixed. As a result, the entire pointer 42 can be evenly illuminated by uniform color mixture.

Further, in this embodiment, each LE
The D units 112, 122, 132, and 137 are three primary color LEDs 114B, 114R, 114G, 124B, 1
24R, 124G, 134B, 134R, and 134G can freely emit any color including white. Also, LE
D114B, 114R, 114G, 124B, 124
By mounting the R, 124G, 134B, 134R, 134G on the unit bases 113, 123, 133 and integrating them, the LED units 112, 122, 132, 1
37, the LED units 112, 122,
Handling of 132, 137 (arrangement, assembly, etc.) becomes easy. Therefore, each LED unit 112, 122, 1
32, 137 to the LED subassemblies 110, 120,
130 and 135 can be easily attached to predetermined positions.

Note that the light guide rings 60, 70, 80, 85 are simultaneously illuminated by the hands 22, 32, 42, 47.
Is performed, and the dials 21, 31, 41, and 46 are illuminated.

FIG. 10 is a rear view showing a pointer lighting device of a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a speedometer section of a lighting device for a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

The pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter according to the second embodiment corresponds to the configuration of the pointer illuminating device of the first embodiment on the side of the flexible printed circuit board 100, and as shown in FIG. The present invention is embodied in a pointer illuminating device that illuminates the pointer 32 of the meter unit 30, the pointer 42 of the fuel gauge 40, and the pointer 47 of the water temperature gauge 45. The indicator lighting device for a vehicle meter according to the second embodiment includes a flexible printed board 200, an LED subassembly 210 for the speedometer section 30, and an LED for the fuel gauge 40.
A sub-assembly 240 and an LED sub-assembly 245 for the water thermometer 45 are provided. Flexible printed board 200, each LED subassembly 210, 240, 24
The configuration of No. 5 includes the flexible printed circuit board 100 of the first embodiment, and the LED subassemblies 120, 130, and 13.
5 is substantially the same as that of FIG.

That is, as in the first embodiment,
The subassembly 210 is disposed on the back surface of the shielding plate 53A of the speedometer unit 30 so as to face the shaft 32b of the pointer 32. Also, the LED subassembly 240
On the back surface of the shield plate 54A of the fuel gauge 40, the shaft 4
2b. Further, the LED subassembly 245 is provided on the back surface of the shielding plate 55A of the water temperature gauge 45.
The pointer 47 is disposed so as to face the shaft portion 47b. Furthermore, the flexible printed board 200 has a short-band-shaped terminal portion 201 and a connection portion 202, and
2 is each LED subassembly 210, 240, 245
And each LED case 90 of the light guide ring 70, 80, 85
In the form of a multi-limbed sheet having limb portions extending in the direction of the arrow.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11, the LED subassembly 210 has substantially the same configuration as the LED subassembly 120 of the first embodiment,
12 is the LED unit 12 according to the first embodiment.
2 is different from the arrangement mode. That is, in the first embodiment, the four LED units 122 are arranged in a so-called windmill or right swastika shape, whereas in the second embodiment, the four LED units 212 are It is arranged in a windmill shape or left swastika shape in the opposite direction to 1.

Specifically, the LED subassembly 210
Is a support base 211 having the same configuration as the support base 121,
LED unit 2 having the same configuration as LED unit 122
12 is provided. Further, a through hole 215 and a through hole 216 are respectively formed integrally with the center of the upper end and the left and right of the lower end of the support base 211 at positions matching the columnar projections 53b of the shielding plate 53A. Then, the support base 211 is placed on the rib 53a of the shielding plate 53A, and each columnar projection 53b is connected to each of the through holes 21a of the support base 211.
5, 216, the columnar projection 53b is
11 protrudes from the back surface by a predetermined height. Thus, the support base 211 is fixed to the back surface of the shielding plate 53A by heat-staking the tip of the columnar projection 53b.

Each LED unit 212 itself has the same configuration as the LED unit 122, and the unit base 213
And a blue LED 214B, a red LED 214R, and a green LED 214G mounted so as to be aligned in a straight line at a predetermined interval in the length direction of the unit base 213. on the other hand,
In the present embodiment, four LED units 212
Are arranged in a manner opposite to the four LED units 122 of Embodiment 1 so as to be substantially point-symmetrical when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. That is, in the vicinity of the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b, right and right of the vertically extending radius line of the first range quadrant and right and left of the vertically extending radius line of the third range quadrant. , Respectively, the LED unit 21
2 are arranged in parallel. Thereby, the first pair of LED units 212 disposed to face the first and third ranges extend in the up-down direction in FIG. Further, the shaft 3
In the vicinity of the center of the end face of 2b, the LED units 212 are located immediately below the horizontally extending radius line of the second range quadrant and directly above the horizontally extending radius line of the fourth range quadrant, respectively. Are arranged in parallel. Thus, the second pair of LED units 212 disposed to face the second and fourth ranges extend in the left-right direction in FIG.

Each pair of LED units 212 has LEDs 214B, 214R, 214 of each color as in the first embodiment.
G are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. That is, the LED units 21 in the first range
2, the blue, red, and green LEDs 214B, 214
R and 214G are arranged so as to be vertically arranged in that order when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. Meanwhile, the third
, The green, red, and blue LEDs 214B, 214R, and 214G correspond to the shaft portion 32b.
When viewed from the center of the end surface of the, it is arranged so as to be vertically arranged in that order. On the other hand, the LED units 21 in the second range
2, the blue, red, and green LEDs 214B, 214
R and 214G are arranged in the left-right direction in that order when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. Meanwhile, the fourth
, The green, red, and blue LEDs 214B, 214R, and 214G correspond to the shaft portion 32b.
When viewed from the center of the end face of the, they are arranged in the left-right direction in that order.

The LED subassembly 240 has the same configuration as the LED subassembly 130 of the first embodiment, and has the same unit base 241 and the same two L LEDs.
And an ED unit 242. The LED subassembly 245 is the LED subassembly 135 of the first embodiment.
And has the same unit base 246 and the same two LED units 247.

Further, in the second embodiment, each light guide ring 7
LED corresponding to the LED cases 90 of 0, 80, 85
Subassemblies 220 and 230 and LED unit 25
1, 252 are provided. In other words, the LED sub-assemblies 220 and 230 are provided to face the LED cases 90 at both ends of the light guide ring 70, respectively. L
The ED subassembly 220 has a support base 221 and two LED units 222 arranged in parallel. L
The ED subassembly 230 includes a support base 231 and an LED.
And a unit 232. In addition, an LED unit 251 is provided to face the LED case 90 at one end (upper end) of the light guide ring 80, and the LED unit 2 is provided corresponding to the LED case 90 at one end (upper end) of the light guide ring 85.
52 are opposed to each other.

The support bases 221 and 231 of each LED subassembly 220 and 230 have the same configuration,
It consists of a base on which a predetermined wiring pattern for supplying power to the three primary color LEDs of the units 222 and 232 is formed on the surface side. Also, the LED units 222, 232, 251,
52 also has the same configuration as the above-mentioned LED units 212 and the like, in which blue, red, and green LEDs are linearly arranged on the unit substrate in that order. Then, the LED subassemblies 220 and 230 and the L
Support bases 221 and 231 of ED units 251 and 252
Are light guide rings 70, 80, and 8 fixed to the return plate 50.
5 is joined to the LED case 90.

At this time, each LED unit 222, 23
2,251,252 LEDs correspond to each LED case 9
It is arranged in 0. Then, under the control of the light emission control circuit, the LE
LED units 222, 232, 25 in D case 90
A current is supplied to each of the LED units 1 and 252 in a predetermined control manner, and the LED units 222, 232, 251, and 252 are supplied.
Emits light in a desired emission color and emission mode. This allows
LED units 222, 232,
Lights 251 and 252 are incident from the end faces of the light guide rings 70, 80 and 85, and the entire light guide rings 70, 80 and 85 emit light in the above-described emission colors and emission modes.
6 illuminations.

The pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter according to the second embodiment configured as described above operates and has the same effect as the pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, in addition to the LED sub-assemblies 210, 240, and 245 for pointer illumination, LEDs for dial illumination
Since the sub-assemblies 220 and 230 are integrated, the entire vehicle meter (the dial and hands) can be embodied as an illuminating device that can be illuminated, and its handling (assembly work and the like) is facilitated. Have.

Next, each of the meter sections 20 and 30 and each of the meters 4
Another example of the LED subassembly for 0, 45 will be described.

FIG. 12 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a speedometer section of a vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

The LED subassembly 300 for the speedometer section 30 of the third embodiment is the same as the LED subassembly of the first embodiment.
The configuration is almost the same as that of the subassembly 120 except that the LE
The arrangement mode of the D unit 302 is the LED of the first embodiment.
This is different from the arrangement mode of the unit 122. That is, in the third embodiment, the four LED units 302 are arranged in a windmill shape or a cross shape with four blades as shown in FIG.

Specifically, the LED subassembly 300
Is a support base 301 having the same configuration as the support base 121,
LED unit 3 having the same configuration as LED unit 122
02. Each LED unit 302 itself has the same configuration as the LED unit 122, and includes a unit base 303 and a blue LED 3 mounted in a straight line at a predetermined interval in the length direction of the unit base 303.
04B, a red LED 304R, and a green LED 304G. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the four LED units 302 are arranged in a cross shape extending in the radial direction when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. That is, near the center of the end surface of the shaft portion 32b, the LED unit 302 is placed at the center between the two radius lines of the quadrant in the first range and the center between the two radius lines of the quadrant in the third range. They are arranged point-symmetrically so as to extend in the radial direction. Further, the shaft portion 32
In the vicinity of the center of the end surface of b, the LED unit 302 extends in the radial direction at the center of the two radial lines of the quadrant of the second range and the center of the two radial lines of the quadrant of the fourth range, respectively. They are symmetrically arranged. Each pair of LED units 302
Are the LEDs 304B, 30 of each color, as in the first embodiment.
4R and 304G are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b.

The LED subassembly 300 of the pointer illuminating device according to the third embodiment configured as described above includes the LED subassembly 12 of the pointer illuminating device according to the first embodiment.
It acts in the same way as 0 and has the same effect.

FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a speedometer section of a vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

The LED subassembly 310 for the speedometer section 30 of the fourth embodiment is the same as the LED subassembly of the first embodiment.
The configuration is almost the same as that of the subassembly 120, and the four LED units 312 are arranged in a windmill shape or a right swastika shape similar to the LED unit 122 of the first embodiment.
On the other hand, in the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the LEDs 314B, 314R, 3
The arrangement of 14G is different from that of the first embodiment.

More specifically, the LED subassembly 310
Is a support base 311 having the same configuration as the support base 121,
LED unit 3 having the same configuration as LED unit 122
12 is provided. Further, each LED unit 312 itself has the same configuration as the LED unit 122, and includes a unit base 313 and a blue LED 3 mounted in a straight line at a predetermined interval in the length direction of the unit base 313.
14B, a red LED 314R, and a green LED 314G. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, each pair of LED units 312 includes LEDs 314B, 314R, and 3 of each color.
14G are arranged in the reverse order to the case of the first embodiment. That is, in the LED units 312 in the first range, the blue, red, and green LEDs 314B, 314R, 3
14G are arranged in the left-right direction in that order when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. On the other hand, in the LED unit 312 in the third range, green, red, and blue
D314B, 314R, and 314G are arranged in the left-right direction in that order when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b. On the other hand, in the LED units 312 in the second range, the blue, red, and green LEDs 314B, 314R, 3
When viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 32b, 14G are arranged vertically in that order. On the other hand, in the LED unit 312 in the fourth range, green, red, and blue
D314B, 314R, and 314G are arranged so as to be vertically arranged in that order when viewed from the center of the end surface of the shaft portion 32b.

The LED subassembly 310 of the pointer illuminating device according to the fourth embodiment configured as described above is the same as the LED subassembly 12 of the pointer illuminating device according to the first embodiment.
It acts in the same way as 0 and has the same effect.

FIG. 14 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a tachometer section of a vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 14, the LED subassembly 320 is the same as the LED subassembly 11 of the first embodiment.
Although the configuration is almost the same as that of the LED unit 112, the arrangement of the LED unit 322 is different from the arrangement of the LED unit 112 of the first embodiment. That is, in the fifth embodiment, three LEs
The D unit 322 is arranged in a substantially windmill shape in which the three LED units 112 of the first embodiment are inverted in the vertical positional relationship.

More specifically, the LED subassembly 320
Is a support base 321 having the same configuration as the support base 111,
LED unit 3 having the same configuration as LED unit 112
22. In addition, through holes 325 are integrally formed on the left and right sides of the upper end left and lower ends of the support base 321 at positions matching the columnar projections of the shielding plate 52A. Then, the support base 321 is placed on the ribs of the shielding plate 52A, and each of the columnar projections is inserted into each of the through holes 325 of the support base 321. It is designed to be fixed to the back side of the plate 52A.

Each LED unit 322 itself has the same configuration as the LED unit 112, and the unit base 323
And a blue LED 324B, a red LED 324R, and a green LED 324G that are mounted so as to be aligned in a straight line at a predetermined interval in the length direction of the unit base 323. on the other hand,
In the present embodiment, in the vicinity of the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b, right and right of the radius line extending in the vertical direction of the first range (upper right triangle) and the third range (upper left triangle) To the left of the radial line extending in the vertical direction of the
22 are arranged in parallel. As a result, the first and third
Pair of LED units 3 arranged to face each other
Reference numeral 22 extends in the vertical direction in FIG. Further, the shaft 22
In the vicinity of the center of the end face b, the LED unit 322 is disposed so as to extend in the left-right direction in FIG. 14 just below the center of both radial lines of the third circle in the second range. As a result, the first and third
LED unit 322 arranged to face the area
Extend in a direction intersecting (perpendicular to) the LED unit 322 disposed in the second range.

Further, the LED units 322 in the first range
Then, green, red, blue LEDs 324G, 324R,
324B are arranged so as to be vertically arranged in that order when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b. On the other hand, in the LED unit 322 in the third range, blue, red, and green L
The EDs 324B, 324R, and 324G are arranged so as to be vertically arranged in that order when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b. In the LED units 322 in the second range, the green, red, and blue LEDs 324G, 324R, and 3
24B are arranged in that order from the left,
A central red LED 324R is provided near the center of the end face of the shaft 22b.

As described above, in the LED subassembly 320 for the tachometer section 20 of the present embodiment, in the LED units 322 of the first and third ranges, the LEDs 324B, 324R, and 324G of each color are formed by the shaft section 22b. They are arranged in reverse order when viewed from the center of the end face.

The LED subassembly 320 of the pointer illuminating device according to the fifth embodiment configured as described above includes the LED subassembly 11 of the pointer illuminating device according to the first embodiment.
It acts in the same way as 0 and has the same effect.

FIG. 15 is a plan view showing a tachometer section LED subassembly of a vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 15, the LED subassembly 330 is the same as the LED subassembly 11 of the first embodiment.
However, the arrangement of the LED unit 332 is different from the arrangement of the LED unit 112 of the first embodiment. That is, in the sixth embodiment, three LEs
The D unit 332 is arranged in a three-blade windmill shape.

More specifically, the LED subassembly 330
Is a support base 331 having the same configuration as the support base 111,
LED unit 3 having the same configuration as LED unit 112
32. Each LED unit 332 itself is LE
The configuration is the same as that of the D unit 112, and the unit base 3
33, a blue LED 334B mounted so as to be aligned in a straight line at a predetermined interval in the length direction of the unit base 333,
It has a red LED 334R and a green LED 334G.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, three L
The ED unit 332 is provided so as to extend in the radial direction when viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft 22b. That is, the LED unit 332 is disposed so as to extend in the radial direction near the center of the end surface of the shaft portion 22b and at the center of both radial lines of each of the first to third ranges. Thereby, the first
To three LED units 332 arranged in the third range
Extend in directions crossing each other. The LED units 332 in the first and second ranges, or the LED units 332 in the first and third ranges,
34R and 334G are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the shaft portion 22b.

The LED subassembly 330 of the pointer illuminating device according to the sixth embodiment configured as described above includes the LED subassembly 11 of the pointer illuminating device according to the first embodiment.
It acts in the same way as 0 and has the same effect.

FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a fuel meter LED subassembly of a vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 16, the LED subassembly 340 is the same as the LED subassembly 13 of the first embodiment.
0, the arrangement order of the LEDs 344B, 344R, and 344G of the LED unit 342 is the same as that of the LED 132B of the LED unit 132 of the first embodiment.
It differs from the arrangement order of 132R and 132G. In detail, L
The ED subassembly 340 includes a support base 341 having the same configuration as the support base 131, and an LED unit 342 having the same configuration as the LED unit 132. Each LED unit 342 itself has the same configuration as the LED unit 132, and includes a unit base 343 and a unit base 343.
Blue LED 344B, red LED 344R, and green L mounted so as to be aligned in a straight line at a predetermined interval in the length direction of
It has ED344G.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, two L
The ED unit 342 is connected to the LEDs 344B and 344 of each color.
R and 344G are arranged in reverse order in the vertical direction in FIG. That is, the LED units 34 in the first range
2, the blue, red, and green LEDs 344B, 344
R and 344G are arranged in that order from the top, and the LED units 342 in the second range have green, red and blue L
The EDs 344G, 344R, and 344B are arranged in that order from the top.

The LED subassembly 340 of the pointer lighting device according to the seventh embodiment configured as described above is the same as the LED subassembly 13 of the pointer lighting device according to the first embodiment.
It acts in the same way as 0 and has the same effect.

The present invention relates to a speedometer 3
Four LED units for the pointer 32 of the zero, three LED units for the pointer 22 of the tachometer section 20, and the pointer 4 of the other auxiliary meter section (fuel gauge 40, water temperature gauge 45, etc.)
Two LED units were provided for 2,47, respectively. However, in the pointer illuminating device of the present invention, the number and arrangement of the LED units can be appropriately set in consideration of the dimensions of the meter section or the pointer of the meter to be illuminated, the required illuminance, and the like. That is, it is preferable to increase the number of LED units and increase the illuminance of the pointer as the diameter of the shaft of the pointer, which is the incident end face of the LED light, increases.
Usually, when the diameter of the rotating shaft is large like a speedometer, four LED units are provided. In addition, two or three LED units are arranged for a medium diameter device such as a tachometer. Further, two LED units are provided for a small-diameter one such as a fuel gauge and a water temperature gauge.

The LED units are arranged in such a manner that a plurality of LED units are arranged at predetermined intervals in the direction of rotation of the hands so as to face the end surface of the rotating shaft (shaft) of the pointer. As long as the units are arranged in a positional relationship such that the LEDs of each color are substantially evenly present in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotating shaft, a substantially windmill-like, substantially swastika-like, cross-like or the like as in the above-described embodiment. In addition to the above arrangement, any arrangement can be used. The “positional relationship in which the LEDs of each color are present substantially evenly” in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotating shaft means, for example, when the end face of the rotating shaft is divided or divided into a plurality at predetermined angular intervals and viewed. , A positional relationship in which the same number of LEDs of each color exist in each section (that is, they do not concentrate on a specific section). At the same time, it refers to a positional relationship in which substantially the same number of LEDs of the same color arranged in each section are not unevenly distributed when viewed from the entire end face of the rotating shaft and are uniformly arranged at a uniform density over the entire end face. For example, as in Embodiment 3 or 4, LEDs of the same color arranged in the same number in each range
May be disposed symmetrically with respect to the center of the end face of the rotation shaft (point symmetry), or as in Embodiment 7, at a symmetric position with respect to the diameter line of the end face of the rotation shaft. (Line symmetry)
Say a positional relationship like

In each of the above embodiments, a large-diameter cylindrical shaft is integrally fixed to the tip of the small-diameter rotary shaft so that light from the LED unit is incident on the end surface of the shaft. Is circular, but the rotating shaft or shaft portion may have a shape other than a cylinder, and the end surface may have a shape other than a circle.

The LED unit of each of the above embodiments is one in which one LED of each of the three primary colors is individually arranged linearly on a unit base and integrated (unitized). However, the “LED unit” referred to in the present invention is not only completely integrated in such a form, but also simply
One unit (1 unit) is formed by combining LEDs of different colors, and a plurality of units (units) are mounted on a support base or a flexible print base of the LED subassembly so as to face the rotation axis of the hands or the end face of the shaft portion. Including. However, as in the above-described embodiment, if a plurality of LEDs of different colors are arranged and integrated in the same order on the unit substrate, such LED units are arranged in the same direction. Thus, the LEDs of each color can be arranged in the same order, or the LEDs of each color can be arranged in the reverse order by disposing them in the opposite direction, and the positional relationship between the LEDs of each color can be easily set.

Further, the number of LEDs of each color of each LED unit is one, but may be two or more. In addition, the LED of each LED unit is a combination of three primary colors, but may be a combination of other colors. For example, a combination of two color LEDs,
Other combinations of LED units, such as a combination of three colors of LEDs other than the above, are also possible.

[0136]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the pointer illumination device for a vehicle meter is configured as described above, so that the light of each LED unit is evenly and uniformly incident on the pointer regardless of the angular position of the rotation axis. . In addition, the emission colors of each LED are mixed evenly. As a result, the entire pointer can be evenly and uniformly illuminated by uniform color mixture.

Since the illumination device for a vehicle meter according to claim 2 is configured as described above, when the end face of the rotating shaft is divided or divided into four at 90-degree intervals, the L of each color is obtained.
There is an equal number of EDs for each plot area (ie, not concentrated on a specific plot). Further, in the first pair of LED units and the second pair of LED units arranged in the above-described manner, the LEDs of each color are linearly arranged in reverse order when viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. It is arranged in a shape. Therefore, the LEDs of each color (same color) in each pair of LED units are arranged in a positional relationship such that they are substantially even in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotation shaft. As a result, the LEDs of each color are arranged in a “substantially uniform positional relationship” in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotation shaft. Then, the light of each LED unit is evenly and uniformly incident on the hands regardless of the angular position of the rotation axis, and the emission colors of each LED are evenly mixed. As a result, the entire pointer can be evenly and uniformly illuminated by uniform color mixture.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the lighting device for a vehicle meter is configured as described above.
When divided or divided into three at a degree interval, the same number of LEDs of each color are present in each division range (ie, not concentrated on a specific division). Further, among the three LED units in the first to third ranges arranged in the above-described manner, in at least two adjacent LED units, LEDs of each color are respectively positioned from the center of the end face of the rotation axis. They are arranged linearly so that they are arranged in reverse order when viewed. Therefore,
LED of each color (same color) in three LED units
Are arranged in a positional relationship such that they are substantially even in the direction of rotation of the end face of the rotating shaft. As a result, the LEDs of each color are arranged in a “substantially uniform positional relationship” in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotation shaft. The light of each LED unit is evenly and uniformly incident on the hands regardless of the angular position of the rotation axis, and the emission colors of each LED are evenly mixed. As a result, the entire pointer can be evenly and uniformly illuminated by uniform color mixture.

The lighting device for a vehicle meter according to claim 4 is constructed as described above.
When divided or divided into two sections at a degree interval, the same number of LEDs of each color exist in each section range (that is, they do not concentrate on a specific section). Further, in the two LED units in the first and second ranges arranged in the above-described manner, the LEDs of each color are arranged linearly so as to be arranged in reverse order. Thereby, the LEDs of each color are "positioned so as to be substantially equally present" in the rotation direction of the end face of the rotation shaft.
It is arranged in. Then, the light of each LED unit is evenly and uniformly incident on the hands regardless of the angular position of the rotation axis, and the emission colors of each LED are evenly mixed. As a result, the entire pointer can be evenly and uniformly illuminated by uniform color mixture.

Since the illumination device for a vehicle meter according to claim 5 is configured as described above, in addition to the effect of any one of claims 1 to 4, each LED unit is provided with an LE of three primary colors.
By D, any color including white can be emitted freely. In addition, by mounting the LED on the board and integrating it,
Since the ED unit is configured, the handling (arrangement, assembly, etc.) of the LED unit becomes easy. Therefore, each LE
The D unit can be easily attached to a predetermined position.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a vehicle meter to which a pointer lighting device for a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 2 is a front view showing a dial plate of a vehicle meter to which the pointer lighting device of the vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 3 is a side view showing a return plate of an automobile meter to which the pointer lighting device of the vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied.

FIG. 4 is a rear view showing the pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, together with the structure on the rear side of a dial plate of an automobile meter.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX of FIG. 4 and shows a mounted state of the pointer lighting device of the vehicle meter according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view of a main part of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a speedometer unit of the illumination device for a vehicle meter according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a tachometer section of the illumination device for a vehicle meter according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a fuel meter LED subassembly of the vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a rear view showing a pointer lighting device of a vehicle meter according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a speedometer section of a lighting device for a vehicle meter according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a speedometer section of a vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a speedometer section of a vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a tachometer section of a lighting device for a vehicle meter according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a plan view showing an LED subassembly for a tachometer section of a lighting device for a vehicle meter according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a fuel meter LED subassembly of a vehicle meter lighting device according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

22, 32, 42, 47: pointer, 32a: rotation axis 112, 122, 132, 137: LED unit 212, 242, 247: LED unit 302, 312, 322, 332, 342: LED unit 114R, 114B, 114G: LED 124R, 124B, 124G: LED 134R, 134B, 134G: LED 214R, 214B, 214G: LED 304R, 304B, 304G: LED 314R, 314B, 314G: LED 324R, 324B, 324G: LED 334R, 334B, 334G: LED 344R, 344B, 344G: LED

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Satoshi Inagaki 1 Nagata, Ochiai, Kasuga-cho, Nishikasugai-gun, Aichi F-term (reference) 2F074 AA04 BB06 CC02 DD04 EE02 GG08 5F041 AA07 AA12 CB29 DA82 DC07 DC81 FF11

Claims (5)

[Claims] In a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter for illuminating the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from an end surface of a rotating shaft of the pointer, a plurality of light-emitting diodes of different colors are linearly arranged in a predetermined order. Using a light-emitting diode unit, a plurality of the light-emitting diode units are disposed at predetermined intervals in the rotation direction, facing the end face of the rotating shaft, and the plurality of light-emitting diode units are
A pointer lighting device for a vehicle meter, wherein the light emitting diodes of each color are arranged in a positional relationship such that the light emitting diodes of each color are substantially evenly present in a rotation direction of an end face of the rotation shaft. 2. In a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter for illuminating the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from an end face of a rotation axis of the pointer, a plurality of light-emitting diodes of different colors are linearly arranged in a predetermined order. A first range, a second range, a third range, and a third range arranged in the rotation direction when the end surface of the rotary shaft of the pointer is divided into four equal parts at 90-degree intervals using a light emitting diode unit; Of the fourth range, the light-emitting diode units are disposed so as to be substantially point-symmetric with respect to the first range and the third range, respectively, when viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. The light-emitting diodes of each color of the two light-emitting diode units are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. For the second range and the fourth range, respectively, The first and The two light emitting diode units are disposed so as to extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the two light emitting diode units disposed in the third range, and to be substantially point-symmetrical when viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. Wherein the light emitting diodes of the respective colors are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. 3. In a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter for illuminating the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from an end surface of a rotating shaft of the pointer, a plurality of light-emitting diodes of different colors are linearly arranged in a predetermined order. When a light emitting diode unit is used and the end face of the rotary shaft of the pointer is divided into three equal parts at 120 degree intervals, a first range and a second range are sequentially arranged in the rotation direction.
The light emitting diode unit is provided for the first range of the range and the third range, and the light emitting diode unit is provided for the second range and the third range, respectively. The light emitting diode units are disposed so as to extend in a direction intersecting with the light emitting diode units disposed in the first range, and at least two light emitting diode units adjacent to the light emitting diode units disposed in the first to third ranges are disposed. And a light emitting diode for a vehicle meter, wherein the light emitting diodes of each color are arranged in reverse order as viewed from the center of the end face of the rotating shaft. 4. In a pointer illuminating device for a vehicle meter for illuminating the entire pointer by introducing light into the pointer from an end face of a rotation shaft of the pointer, a plurality of light-emitting diodes of different colors are linearly arranged in a predetermined order. Using a light-emitting diode unit, when the end face of the rotary shaft of the pointer is bisected at 180 ° intervals, the first range and the second range are sequentially arranged in the rotation direction, The light emitting diode units are arranged so as to be parallel to each other at opposing positions, and the light emitting diodes of each color of the two light emitting diode units are arranged in reverse order. . 5. The light emitting diode units of different colors of the respective light emitting diode units are composed of light emitting diodes of blue, red, and green, and each of the light emitting diode units is arranged in a length direction of a rectangular plate-shaped base. The blue, red,
The light emitting diode of each green color is linearly mounted in that order, The light emitting diode of any one of Claim 1 thru | or 4 characterized by the above-mentioned.
Item 5. A pointer lighting device for a vehicle meter according to item 4.