Parallel And Perpendicular Pivot Axes Patents (Class 248/485)
  • Patent number: 11125969
    Abstract: Examples are disclosed that relate to a resonant scanning mirror system comprising a mirror structure mounted to a frame via an adhesive. One example provides a resonant scanning mirror system comprising a frame defining a perimeter around a space, the frame including a mirror mounting portion having an opening. The mirror system also comprises a mirror structure spanning the space, the mirror structure having an oscillating mirror portion and a foot, the foot being attached to the mirror mounting portion with an adhesive and being positioned such that a location of the opening in the mirror mounting portion at least partially defines a location of an edge of a fillet of the adhesive where the adhesive meets the foot of the mirror structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventor: Michael James Nystrom
  • Patent number: 11041942
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lidar sensor (1) comprising at least one transmitting unit (S1-S4) and at least one receiving unit (E1-E4), wherein the transmitting unit (S1-S4) is designed to pivot a light signal in a horizontal direction, wherein the light signal is tilted at an angle ? relative to a ground surface (5), wherein the transmitting unit (S1-S4) and the receiving unit (E1-E4) are designed as an assembly (2) and the lidar sensor (1) has an adjusting device (2) that is designed so that the assembly (2) can be tilted by at least one angle ? in a vertical direction, and a method for optically scanning an environment by means of a lidar sensor (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: VOLKSWAGEN AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Thomas Ruchatz, Thorsten Bagdonat
  • Patent number: 10875454
    Abstract: A method for extending and retracting a mirror head of an exterior rearview mirror assembly includes providing an exterior rearview mirror assembly having (i) a mounting base, (ii) a mirror head having a mirror casing and a mirror reflective element and (iii) an electrically-operated actuator. The mirror head is adjustably mounted at the mounting base via first and second links, with the links having respective base ends that pivotally attach at the mounting base and respective head ends that pivotally attach at the mirror head. The actuator is operated to pivot the first link to move the mirror head relative to the mounting base from a retracted position toward an extended position. As the mirror head moves toward the extended position, the first and second links pivot at their respective base ends relative to the mounting base and at their respective head ends relative to the mirror head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Peterson, Matthew V. Steffes
  • Patent number: 10114214
    Abstract: An illumination apparatus having scanning laser source and a vehicle headlight using the illumination apparatus includes a light source, a wavelength converting member and a mirror mounted on a movable frame unit configured to rotate the mirror about two orthogonal axes. Light emitted by the light source is reflected by the mirror such that rotation of the mirror by the movable frame unit scans the reflected light in two directions at a substantially right angle with respect to each other and/or direct the reflected light towards the wavelength converting member to provide various color lights. The movable frame unit might be actuated by an AC voltage having a low frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: STANLEY ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yasushi Yatsuda, Hiroshi Hirasawa
  • Patent number: 10095089
    Abstract: A lens mount assembly is configured to support a lens assembly having a lens ring and at least one lens secured to the lens ring. The lens mount assembly includes a ring mount having an annular body with at least two retaining arms that project from the annular body, a flexure configured to be secured to the ring mount, and at least two bellows. Each bellows is configured to be secured to a respective retaining arm of the at least two retaining arms of the ring mount. The at least two bellows further are configured to engage the flexure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: RAYTHEON COMPANY
    Inventors: Li Chiao Po, Ray McVey
  • Patent number: 9606351
    Abstract: A vehicle headlight includes a light source, a wavelength converting member and a mirror mounted on a movable frame unit configured to rotate the mirror about two orthogonal axes. Light emitted by the light source is reflected by the mirror such that rotation of the mirror by the movable frame unit scans the reflected light in two directions at a substantially right angle with respect to each other and/or direct the reflected light towards the wavelength converting member to provide various color lights The movable frame unit might be actuated by an AC voltage having a low frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: STANLEY ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yasushi Yatsuda, Hiroshi Hirasawa
  • Patent number: 8876077
    Abstract: A spherical orienting device includes a base, first and second actuation shafts, an orientable device, an inner member, a middle member, and an outer member. The first and second actuation shafts are rotatably held by the base for rotary actuation about first and second actuation axes, respectively, which intersect orthogonally at a spherical center of rotation. The orientable device is supported by first and second revolute support joints which are disposed for rotation about an orientation axis of the orientable device and a support axis, respectively. The inner member is fixed to the first actuation shaft and linked to the second support joint. The middle member is inwardly linked to the first support joint and outwardly linked to a middle revolute joint disposed for rotation about a linkage axis. The outer member is fixed to the second actuation shaft and linked to the middle revolute joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Patrick Maillard
  • Patent number: 7992835
    Abstract: A kinematic optical mount comprising a frame supporting an optical element; a base member having first and second surfaces and providing magnetic attraction to seat the frame against first, second, and third point contacts. The kinematic optical mount further includes threaded yaw and pitch adjustment cavities extending through the base member from the first surface to the second surface, together with threaded yaw and pitch adjustment inserts that can be inserted into the yaw and pitch adjustment cavities from either the first or second surfaces of the base member enabling adjustment of two of the point contacts from the direction of the either the first or second surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Mark A. Harland, Mark E. Bridges
  • Patent number: 7862189
    Abstract: A mirror device for observing an infant in a rear-facing child safety car seat secured to the rear seat of a vehicle including a front seating area, a rear seating area, and a rear seat within the rear seating area, the rear seat having an upwardly-extending headrest. The mirror device includes a mirror and backing assembly having a rear surface, and an attachment connected to the rear surface for attaching the mirror device to the headrest. The attachment in turn includes a swivel device having a concavity element including a first bowl-like structure having a concave working surface; and a corresponding convexity element including a second bowl-like structure having a convex working surface configured to engage the concave working surface. The concavity and convexity elements are frictionally maintained in a desired adjusted position with reference to each other, while at the same time permitting manual adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: BRICA, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence O. Freese
  • Patent number: 7341356
    Abstract: A dual magnification vanity mirror adjustable in height and orientation includes an elongated stanchion curved into the shape of a C having a downwardly depending threaded support leg insertably receivable through a central hole in a base plate and removably fastenable thereto by a nut threaded onto the leg. The mirror includes a mirror frame which holds therein a pair of back-to-back mirror plates of different relative magnifications, the frame being joined by a ball-and-socket joint to a bushing rotatably mounted on a horizontal end arm of the stanchion, whereby the frame is swivelable and/or rotatable about an axis of the ball-and-socket joint to adjustable azimuth and inclination angles, orbital about a longitudinal axis of the coupler bushing to an adjustable height, and secured thereat by a screw tightened into radial bore through the bushing onto the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventor: Zlatko Zadro
  • Patent number: 7216885
    Abstract: A trailer mounted and adjustable mirror assembly for attachment to a trailer or hitch being towed by a towing vehicle. The assembly, when secured, helps facilitate securement of the trailer to the towing vehicle while the driver/operator remains in the towing vehicle. The assembly comprises a removable clamp mounting a pair of adjustable, telescopic tubular members on which is mounted a pivotal mirror mechanism pivotal throughout 360° and countless angles relative to the plane of the pivotal mirror mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Brian Stopka
  • Patent number: 6955437
    Abstract: A mirror assembly is provided for use in “hitching” trailers to towing vehicles. The mirror assembly can be used for conventional ball and socket couplings, fifth wheel couplings and variations thereof. The mirror assembly is magnetically attached to the trailer tongue so it can be easily removed after coupling. The mirror assembly includes a telescoping stanchion mirror post and a swivel joint which can be vertically rotated. A ball joint connected to the back of the mirror allows the mirror to be turned in any of a variety of positions for precise alignment during the hitching process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Fred H. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6834972
    Abstract: An articulated arm of the rear mirror for cars, bicycles and/or to that of an additional internal car rear mirror, suitable for efficient mounting either on the handlebar or inside the car and allowing for simple adjustment of the viewing position. The articulated rear mirror arm referred to in this invention allows for simple adjustment and arresting of the selected position by means of the articulated parts including the rod shaped structure of the carrier element, the intermediate connection element and the fixing element. The mirror is with its frame fixed to one end of the intermediate connection element, thereby forming an articulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Phophetes, D.D.
    Inventor: Slavko Medimurec
  • Patent number: 6764056
    Abstract: An improved rearview mirror structure mainly includes a support bar, a mirror frame and an anchor post. The support bar has a chute formed on a front end and at least one anchor rack on a rear end. The mirror frame has a sliding strut housed in the chute. The anchor rack is coupled on the anchor support and may be anchored thereon by turning a first adjust bolt. The mirror frame is anchored and adjustable upwards and downwards, and to the left and the right to reach a desired elevation. Thus the rearview scope may be expanded without producing any dead angle to achieve driving safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Shiow-Lih Wu
  • Patent number: 6550923
    Abstract: A mirror surface angle adjusting device is provided which can be used at both left and right outer mirror devices of a vehicle. At a mirror driving unit, positional relationships between respective points (fulcrum of swinging A1 and A2, first adjusting points B1 and B2, second adjusting points C1 and C2, first mounting points D1 and D2, second mounting points E1 and E2, and third mounting points F1 and F2) are set such that the points have line symmetry with respect to 45° direction reference lines P1, P2. Accordingly, from a functional standpoint as well, there are no obstacles at a time of mounting, and as a result, a same type of mirror driving unit can be used at both a left door mirror device and a right door mirror device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai-Rika-Denki-Seisakusho
    Inventors: Masato Sakamoto, Yoshio Tsujiuchi, Morihiko Ogasawara
  • Patent number: 6384993
    Abstract: An adjustable optical device including an optical element, a housing having an adjusting post fixed thereto, the optical element mounted to the housing, the housing adjusting post having a plane of movement, and an adjustment mechanism, the housing flexibly connected to the adjustment mechanism, the adjustment mechanism comprising a moving adjusting member in sliding engagement with the housing adjusting post, one of the adjusting member and the housing adjusting post comprising a wedge. The housing adjusting post is urged into movement in its plane of movement in response to relative movement between the adjusting member and the adjusting post, whereby the orientation of the optical element relative to the adjusting mechanism is adjusted by movement of the moving adjusting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan David Bell, James Edward Bowman, Benjamin Joffe
  • Patent number: 6239926
    Abstract: A visual observation system, using the towing vehicle's rearview mirror and a trailer mounted mirror apparatus to align the vehicle's hitch ball and the trailer's hitch receiver without having to use a second person to observe the hitch and guide the driver. The driver does not have to leave the vehicle to observe the relative position of the trailer hitch and the vehicle ball. This allows the driver to align the hitch without damaging the vehicle or the trailer. This apparatus uses a mirror assembly (60), comprising a combination of a convex mirror and a flat mirror mounted on a offset bracket attached to telescoping support (50), on a rotating base assembly (30) offset to the side of the trailer tongue, forming a unit that can be rotated into offset storage clip (75), mounted on the trailer tongue, or easily removed for storage without the use of tools. The unit gives a large field of vision while backing up the vehicle, using the convex mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Desh Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard F. De Shazer
  • Patent number: 6213608
    Abstract: A viewing mirror device to assist a vehicle driver when connecting the vehicle to a trailer. The mirror device comprises a viewing mirror, an attachment tube or channel for attaching the device to the vehicle hitch, and a mast that connects the viewing mirror to the attachment tube or channel. The position of the viewing mirror can be adjusted so that the vehicle driver can see both the vehicle hitch connection point and the trailer tongue connection point in the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Evergreen Innovations, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Alan George Osgood
  • Patent number: 6062697
    Abstract: A detachable mirror designed to allow the driver of a vehicle to view the hitch ball when attempting to align the hitch ball with a trailer hitch. The invention has a stable triangular base and an adjustable mast for positioning a small mirror in the correct location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventors: Larry A. Bryant, Daryl L. Beadle
  • Patent number: 6059417
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that enables a person reclined on a bed to comfortably view a television screen (36) that is set up for ordinary viewing, which is small and lightweight, of low cost, and easily used. The apparatus includes a frame (64) that can be mounted on a wall (66) and a pair of mirrors (60, 62) mounted on the frame. A first of the mirrors (60) lies above the head (H) of the reclined viewer so he can comfortably view the first mirror, while the second mirror (62) lies lower and forward of the first mirror to reflect light from the screen toward the first mirror, with the first mirror then reflecting the light to the viewer. The frame includes a wall mount (72) that lies behind and above the viewer's head, an arm (64) extending forwardly from the mount, and a mirror support lying at the outer end, or forward end, of the arm. Each of the mirrors is pivotally mounted on the mirror support about a primarily horizontal axis to allow the viewer to look up or down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: James Z. Tatoian
  • Patent number: 5959792
    Abstract: An ergonomic vehicle inspection mirror apparatus has a handle, a pole or casing, and a foot. Mounted on the foot is a rotatable mirror. The mirror is attached to the foot by means of a pivot shaft, about which the mirror is capable of two degrees of rotational freedom, in order to turn the plane of the mirror at various angles with respect to the foot. Rotation about the pivot shaft is actuated by an electric motor in the foot. The motor is interconnected with a toggle switch in the handle. Pushing the switch in a particular direction causes the mirror to rotate in that direction. The inspector can place the foot of the device under the vehicle with the pole at an attitude that is chosen to be comfortable. Thereafter, the mirror may be rotated with the switch so as to direct the line of sight at various points under the vehicle body without having to readjust the pole for each angle of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Abdalla M. Ibrahim
  • Patent number: 5926331
    Abstract: A power pack for controlling the position of a rearview mirror of an automotive vehicle which is to be mounted within a mirror housing. The mirror housing is shaped to define a cavity. The power pack is connected to a base plate which holds the mirror within the housing cavity. A stationary pivot assembly is connected to the power pack to pivotally couple to the base plate. A movable pivot assembly is connected to the base plate for pivoting the mirror about the stationary pivot assembly. A motor is located within the power pack and is rotatably coupled to a drive shaft. A first portion of the drive shaft has a first set of threads and a second portion of the drive shaft has a second set of threads opposite that of the first portion. A first arm and second arm are coupled to said first set of threads and the said second set of threads, respectively. Each arm is also connected to the moveable pivot assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Harman Automotive, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert M. Crandall
  • Patent number: 5631781
    Abstract: An outside mirror for a motor vehicle. The mirror glass 4 is divided by an approximately horizontally extending separating line 7 into an upper mirror surface 5 and a lower mirror surface 6. The mirror surface 5 which cannot be swivelled about the approximately vertically extending axis 9 is constructed to be swivellable about an axis 8 which extends approximately horizontally in the proximity of the separating line 7. As a result, it is possible during a passing maneuver to view the rearward traffic over a long distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Inventor: Helmut Hartmann
  • Patent number: 5566030
    Abstract: A multi-stage adjustable mirror support in a car has a sucker covered by a sucker cover and a post on the sucker. The post passes through the sucker cover. A press body which is on the sucker cover connects the post pivitedly. The front of the sucker cover receives a gear seat. The gear seat has a chamber to receive a gear, a hole and a recess. A lower link has two parallel side plates to receive the front of the sucker cover. The upper end of the lower link receives the lower end of the middle link pivitedly. An upper link has two parallel side plates to receive the upper end of the middle link pivitedly. The interspace between the upper ends of the spaced side plates receives two arms of a swivel. The swivel has a ball end and two parallel arms. Each arm has a central hole. The interspace between two parallel arms receives a gear seat. The gear seat has a chamber to receive a gear, a hole and a recess. The upper link, the gear seat and the swivel are connected pivotedly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventor: Chin-Chuan Yue
  • Patent number: 5550669
    Abstract: A support for a fast steering/scanning mirror including a base and two horizontal flexures arranged generally parallel to each other. Each of the flexures may include two end brackets which are secured to the base and a middle bracket between the end brackets which is secured to the mirror. The support may also include a vertical flexure secured to the base at one end and pivotally secured with adhesive to the mirror between the two horizontal flexures at another end. The support may have a first natural vibrational mode with respect to rotation in each of two perpendicular axes that is less than 30 Hertz, a second natural vibrational mode with respect to rotation in each of the two perpendicular axes that is at least 2,000 Hertz, and a natural vibrational mode with respect to rotation in a third axis which is perpendicular to said two axes that is at least 2,000 Hertz. The vertical flexure may include at least two plates which are orthogonally arranged on the same axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: Martin Marietta Corporation
    Inventor: Bhikhu Patel
  • Patent number: 5383057
    Abstract: An automotive rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror housing adapted to be mounted on a fixed member of an automobile outside of the passenger's compartment, a mirror swingably disposed in the mirror housing, a control mechanism including a control lever adapted to project from the housing into the passenger's compartment, and a rotatable shaft mechanism pivotally coupled to a rear surface of the mirror at a plurality of positions thereon, the rotatable shaft mechanism being rotatable in response to control movements of the control lever, for vertically and laterally adjusting the angle of the mirror with respect to the mirror housing. The mirror housing is angularly movable about the axis of the rotatable shaft mechanism in unison with the mirror within the mirror housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Matsuyama Seisakusho
    Inventors: Sakae Kimura, Michio Hamada
  • Patent number: 5353167
    Abstract: A unique lens or mirror mount having adjustable constraints at two key locations to allow for "X" and "Y" tilts of the mirror only. The device uses two pair of flexures of a type such that the pivots of the mirror gimble are rigidly fixed in all planes allowing the device to have zero stacking tolerance and zero wear over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Thomas C. Kuklo, Donald A. Bender
  • Patent number: 5221068
    Abstract: A mounting device with a clamp and pivotal holders provides mounting to a vehicular rear-view mirror for complementary devices such as a magnification scope or a radar detection device. Hand-held mounting is provided as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1993
    Assignee: Blue Sky Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald D. Varner, Rolin J. Gebelein
  • Patent number: 5217197
    Abstract: An extension device to extend an original equipment vehicle side rear view mirror away from the vehicle so that the mirror may be used with wide loads. One end of a U-shaped extension device is inserted in the original mirror mounting bracket on the vehicle and the original mirror support arm is inserted in a sleeve that is rigidly secured to the other end of the extension device. Threaded fasteners, which are accessible to the driver through the vehicle window, extend through the sleeve to lock the mirror in adjusted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1993
    Inventor: Vernon J. Spitzer
  • Patent number: 5148327
    Abstract: A first mirror is mounted on a backing plate which is adjustably connected to the upper end portion of a first support arm, and a second mirror is mounted on a backing plate which is adjustably connected to the forward end portion of a second support arm. The opposite end portions of both the first and second support arms are adjustably connected to the forward end portion of a third support arm, and all of the support arms and backing plates are molded of a rigid plastics material. The rearward end portion of the third support arm is adjustably connected to a split collar or clamp which mounts on the handlebar support post or gooseneck of a bicycle. The mirrors and arms are individually adjustable and adjustable as a unit to accommodate bicycles of different sizes and bicycle riders of different sizes and to provide the rider with a forward and peripheral view when the rider has a comfortable head-down and streamlined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Inventor: Miguel Gaxiola, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5116013
    Abstract: A mirror mounting mechanism for mounting a mirror to a vehicle and preventing mirror movement after the mirror is positioned. A retaining device, which is attached to the mirror and a vehicle mounting bar, is securely tightened in place after the mirror is positioned to prevent the mirror from moving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Mirror Lite Co.
    Inventor: Kirk Malcolmson
  • Patent number: 5096283
    Abstract: An adjustable rear view mirror extension apparatus that attaches to a standard existing rear view mirror found in most automobiles and other motor vehicles. The apparatus has a mirror, a mirror frame to secure the mirror, a plurality of lateral supports to position the mirror on the frame, and a flexible mirror retainer to releasingly retain the mirror in the mirror frame. There is a mirror frame support that allows the mirror to rotate on a vertical axis and a rotating device to allow the mirror to rotate on a horizontal axis. The rotating device has a housing comprising two sections. The two sections are adjustably connected to adjust the tension of the insert spring which controls the ease of movement of the mirror around its horizontal axis. The rotating device has a first and second surface with a plurality of radial bosses and grooves, respectively, included are an insert, spring and insert gripping device to restrict rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Inventor: Hans Croteau
  • Patent number: 5082361
    Abstract: A remote controlled mirror unit for mounting on a commercial vehicle such as a truck or a bus includes a mirror assembly comprising a mirror housing, a multi-directional mirror drive mounted within said housing, and a mirror mounted to said mirror drive. The mirror unit further includes a mirror assembly support bracket comprising an upper horizontal bracket and a lower horizontal bracket. The mirror is capable of movement about both a vertical and a horizontal axis. The mirror is removably detachable from the mirror drive. The mirror assembly is pivotably associated with the mirror assembly support bracket along an axis whereby the mirror assembly is pivotable about the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Inventor: Clyde M. McKee
  • Patent number: 5039055
    Abstract: A mounting for a rear view mirror on a vehicle in which the distance of the mirror from the outside of the vehicle can be varied to allow rear vision when wide loads or a wide towed device might otherwise interfere. The adjustment is made possible by using a telescoping tube capable of being clamped in various adjusted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Luverne Truck Equipt. Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Lempelius
  • Patent number: 4951913
    Abstract: A trailer-hitch-viewing mirror tool that can be temporarily mounted on the tailgate of a pickup truck or the rear window of a station wagon, camper, or other towing vehicle. It easily adjusts to pickup truck's tailgate or other towing vehicle's rear window and can be utilized by anyone without special skills or instruction. It conveniently allows the driver of the towing vehicle to align its hitch ball to the mating trailer hitch socket by affording the driver a clear view of the hitch parts from the driver's seat. The driver slowly backs up while viewing the mating hitch parts through the tailgate or rear-window-mounted mirror, whereby he or she can align the hitch ball to the mating trailer hitch, completing the task quickly, comfortably, and without assistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1990
    Inventor: David M. Quesada
  • Patent number: 4925286
    Abstract: A three-point spherical mirror mount for use with lasers is disclosed. The improved mirror mount is adapted to provide a pivot ring having an outer surface with at least three spaced apart mating points to engage an inner spherical surface of a support housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: Ronald W. Cutburth
  • Patent number: 4925288
    Abstract: A mechanism (10) for adjustably mounting a laser mirror includes fixed and movable plates (20, 22) with a pivot assembly mounted therebetween. The mirror (44) is mounted on the movable plate (22). A pair of wedge structures interface between the two plates at locations spaced from the pivot assembly and function to vary the angle between the plates about the pivot assembly. In the preferred embodiment, the wedge structure includes a threaded screw (54) for driving a sphere (58) against an inclined plane (50). The assembly allows adjustment of the mirror face (46) about all axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1990
    Assignee: Coherent, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Harris
  • Patent number: 4914972
    Abstract: A device incorporating three cables for controlling a mirror support of a vehicle rearview mirror, which includes, between, on the one hand, a fixed plate on which are flanged the sleeves of the cables and, on the other hand, the support of the mirror, a crosspiece having four journals aligned in two's in two perpendicular directions and mounted in clippable fork-joints on the plate and support, respectively. According to the invention, the journals of each pair are more remote from one another than those of known crosspieces. The crosspiece has guiding bearing surfaces extending perpendicularly to a pivoting axis in order to cooperate with friction tabs on the mirror support and other guiding bearing surfaces extending perpendicularly to the other pivot axis in order to cooperate with friction tabs on the fixed plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Assignee: Societe Manzoni Bouchot
    Inventor: Bernard Manzoni
  • Patent number: 4889308
    Abstract: An outside rear-view mirror for a vehicle has a pedestal and a mirror housing which is swingably mounted to the pedestal. A mirror glass is bonded to a backing element which is mounted to a universal joint including a rocker and being fastened to the base of the mirror housing. A handle is adapted to be mounted within the interior of the vehicle and to be manipulated in either of two transverse directions. One end of a flexible shaft is hung into a shackle projecting from the backing element transversely to the mirror glass and having a pinion which may rotate with the shaft and engage a toothed segment of the rocker. The second end of the shaft is coupled to a gear which engages a toothed rack coupled to the handle so as to be displaceable longitudinally upon manipulation of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1989
    Assignee: Hohe KG
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Gillet
  • Patent number: 4863255
    Abstract: Disclosed is an outside rear view mirror for a vehicle which has a mirror housing mounted to a pedestal such that it may rock relative to the pedestal upon impact from the front or from the rear. Within the mirror housing, means are provided for holding a mirror glass which allow pivoting of the mirror glass about any one or both of two perpendicular pivot axes, one of which is normally upright and the other of which runs transversely to the car body to which the pedestal is fastened. An adjusting device for adjusting the position of the mirror glass includes a lever which is pivotably mounted within the pedestal, and one end of which is provided with a handle and the opposite end of which is coupled to a rod. The rod extends through a joint coupling the mirror housing rockably to the pedestal into the mirror housing and is pivotably mounted to a stud means projecting from the back of the mirror and offset from the point of intersection of said axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1989
    Assignee: Hohe KG
    Inventor: Edwin Seitz
  • Patent number: 4856886
    Abstract: Disclosed is an outside rear-view mirror for a vehicle having a mirror housing which is mounted to a pedestal such that the mirror housing may rock relative to the pedestal upon impact from the front or from the rear. Within the mirror housing means are provided for holding a mirror glass which allow pivoting of the mirror glass about anyone or both of two perpendicular pivot axes, one of which is normally upright and the other of which runs transversely to the car body to which the pedestal is fastened. An adjusting device for adjusting the position of the mirror glass includes a lever mounted to the mirror housing and adapted to rotate about axes which run parallel to the pivot axes of the mirror glass. The first arm of the lever is coupled to a handle which may be manipulated from the interior of the car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1989
    Assignee: Hohe KG
    Inventors: Herwig W. Polzer, Edwin Seitz
  • Patent number: 4770522
    Abstract: A sensing and adjustment assembly for a mirror on automobiles has a sensor comprising an electronic oscillator which is associated with a mirror position indicator member. Movement and position of the mirror is detected by the sensor. A driving arrangement responds to the sensor to move the mirror to a preset position which position is stored in a computer memory. The oscillator can have a winding of spiral shape and the indicator can comprise material capable of absorbing electromagnetic energy, such as steel, and can be of substantially tapered shape such as substantially conical. The member can be moved through a center passageway for the winding. The oscillator can be a Colpitts or other type. A differential amplifier, a converter from A.C. to D.C., and another amplifier can be part of the sensor. A pair of sensors and indicators can be used in conjunction with the drive means to move the mirror in two planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1988
    Assignee: Siegel-Robert, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph W. Alten
  • Patent number: 4577823
    Abstract: A device for controlling an outside rearview mirror from inside a vehicle. A support member for the rearview mirror is mounted to pivot about a first axis Y-Y1. On the rear face of the mirror support member, two parallel arms engage a cylinder boss affixed on a shaft. The shaft is mounted to rotate and to slide in bearings made in the spider. The cylindrical boss and shaft are directed by a rotatable control cable and adapted to move both rotatably and axially. The cylindrical boss travels along on a semi-cylindrical guide means along the arc of a circle about a second.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1986
    Inventor: Stephane Manzoni
  • Patent number: 4156557
    Abstract: A dual rear view mirror unit for motor vehicles is disclosed. The unit comprises a mounting frame having an upper and a lower rear view mirror thereon. Each of the mirrors is independently adjustable. The upper mirror and lower mirror are positioned so as to define a substantial gap between them. This allows the operator of the motor vehicle unobstructed lateral vision. The lower mirror is mounted on the frame so that its upper edge is beneath the lateral line of vision of the operator. Likewise the upper mirror is mounted on the frame so that its lower edge is substantially above the said lateral line of vision. With this construction the upper edge of the upper mirror protrudes substantially above the cab of the truck. The upper mirror is tilted so that its upper end inclines toward the rear of the truck. This substantially aids in the dissipation of fog and rain which may accumulate on the upper mirror's surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1979
    Inventor: William A. Skewis
  • Patent number: 4095483
    Abstract: A rear view mirror for a motor vehicle in which a mirror head is mounted for angular movement about two axes at right angles to each other and is adjustable about these axes by rotation of a single control shaft. Adjustment of the head about one axis is effected by rotation of an eccentric element by the shaft, and adjustment about the other axis is effected by linear movement produced by rotation of a second element such as a scroll cam or screw thread. A lost motion device is arranged between the shaft and at least one of the elements so that a degree of adjustment of the mirror head about one axis can be effected without alteration to the angular setting of the head with respect to the other axis. The lost motion device may be arranged between the two elements or between an additional fine-adjust device and both the elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1976
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1978
    Assignee: Wingard Limited
    Inventor: Archibald Sargeant
  • Patent number: 3972500
    Abstract: Apparatus for the restraint of cargo in carriers such as freight containers, highway trucks and trailers, railroad cars, ships, aircraft and space vehicles. The apparatus includes continuous rails which are fastened flush to the floor of the cargo carrier and to the structural supports of said floor. A continuous undercut groove in the rail serves to fasten, at any point, load restraint chocks which are braced directly against the cargo loads. The chocks are designed with eyes and other tie-down anchor means to which flexible straps about the cargo load are anchored. The chock may also be fabricated with an adjustable blocking member to fit against a lateral side of a cargo load so as to apply additional lateral bracing to the cargo load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1972
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1976
    Inventors: J. Algot Johnson, Robert Kennedy