Body Or Apparel Mirror Support Patents (Class 359/879)
  • Publication number: 20080123207
    Abstract: The claimed utility is called back-hair-trim-guide with an adjustable mirror for man. It trims man's back and side hair safely and effectively with a clipper. It comprises the following five parts, 1. An utility holding bar to hold the back mirror and back hair guides 2. An adjustable back hair mirror, 3. Two adjustable back hair protection cover (guides) 4. A front belt with both ends connecting to either ends of the said utility holding bar. Its length is adjustable. 5. A top belt with both ends connecting to either ends of the said utility holding bar. Its length is adjustable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Daniel Li
  • Publication number: 20080062545
    Abstract: A sideview mirror includes multiple parts, wherein the mirror body, the washer, the spring, the support member, the bearing, the rotation member, and the mounting member are combined to form a window corner type sideview mirror, while the mirror body, the washer, the spring, the support member, and the mounting member are combined to form a car side body type sideview mirror. Thus, the window corner type sideview mirror only needs to provide the fixing member additionally to replace the bearing, the rotation member, and the mounting member to form the car side body type sideview mirror, so that the sideview mirror is both available for a window corner type sideview mirror and a car side body type sideview mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventor: Fu-Chu Su
  • Patent number: 7329013
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror system for a vehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly, a casing having a reflective element, a compass sensor and a control. The compass sensor is disposed within the mirror casing and has a first magnetoresponsive sensing element and a second magnetoresponsive sensing element. The control receives a first signal indicative of a magnetic field sensed by the first magnetoresponsive sensing element and a second signal indicative of a magnetic field sensed by the second magnetoresponsive sensing element. The control determines that the casing is adjusted by an occupant of the vehicle in response to a change in the first and second signals being indicative of an abrupt movement of the casing about the mounting structure by an occupant of the vehicle. The control is operable to enter a rapid compensating mode to compensate for the mirror adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Rodney K. Blank, Kenneth L. Schierbeek, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 7303297
    Abstract: An extendable, foldable rearview mirror assembly comprises a ball bearing assembly for facilitating the extension of a reflective element assembly relative to a cantilevered extension arm while minimizing unwanted movement of the reflective element assembly. The rearview mirror assembly also comprises a roller bearing assembly for facilitating the pivotal movement of the extension arm relative to a pivot base frame supporting the extension arm while minimizing unwanted movement of the extension arm. A pin connection pivotably attaches the extension arm to the base frame, thereby strengthening the connection between the two parts while minimizing unwanted movement of the extension arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America L.L.C.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, James A. Ruse, Benjamin D. Newton, Kenneth C. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20070188896
    Abstract: An adjustable rear view mirror structure is provided. The rear view mirror structure comprises a flexible body and an adjusting apparatus wherein the body has a reflective surface and an inner surface. The adjusting apparatus is disposed at a rear portion of the body and is utilized to drive the inner surface of the body. Thus, the reflective surface of the body can form a particular curvature whereby the rear view mirror structure can offer a wider viewing angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Inventor: Kun-Ta Lee
  • Patent number: 7216996
    Abstract: A mirror system having a common framework that allows interchangeability of mirror styles. The mirror system includes a first skeleton support structure operatively attached to a portion of a vehicle. The support structure including a mounting bracket therein. A removable cover adapted to be attached thereover for providing a stylistic appearance to the bracket portion. A second support structure is provided for attachment to the bracket portion. A second support structure includes attachments for supporting a mirror assembly therein. The support assembly includes a connection structure. An outer interchangeable cover portion is provided, which is interchangeably fitted to the support structure for providing a variable stylistic outer surface to the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems UK Ltd.
    Inventor: Graham Rehill
  • Patent number: 7152986
    Abstract: A pivot assembly (10) adapted to connect a mirror head (11) and a mirror mounting bracket (12) of a rear vision mirror assembly. The pivot assembly (10) has a spigot extending from a spigot plate (40), a plate (35) journalled to the spigot and a detent arrangement between the plate (35) and spigot. An attachment arrangement on both the spigot plate (40) and plate (35) allows the spigot plate (40) to be secured to either one of the mirror head (11) or the mirror mounting bracket (12). The attachment arrangement also allows the plate (35) to be secured to the other of the mirror head (11) or the mirror mounting bracket (12). A stop means associated with the spigot and adapted to engage with a stop arrangement on either the mirror head (11) or the mirror mounting bracket (12) limits rotation of the mirror head (11) with respect to the mirror mounting bracket (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Maarten J. Schuurmans
  • Patent number: 7114819
    Abstract: An apparatus for stably fixing a reflection mirror of a laser scanning unit to a frame. The apparatus comprises a reflection mirror, a frame receiving and supporting the reflection mirror, fixing pieces disposed in the frame and having a connection surface which is slanted at a predetermined angle so as to tightly contact one side of the reflection mirror, support blocks supporting the other side of the reflection mirror, and clamps clamping the fixing pieces and the reflection mirror in order to tightly contact the reflection mirror and the connection surfaces of the fixing pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hyeong-seong Shim
  • Patent number: 7090363
    Abstract: A rearview mirror for a motor vehicle comprises an internal frame supporting a reflective element and a motorized tilt actuator assembly for adjusting the reflective element about perpendicular axes. The reflective element is attached to the internal frame through a pivot connection. A positional memory module comprising a separate assembly is supported by the internal frame adjacent the pivot connection for electrically determining the horizontal and vertical tilt of the reflective element at a selected position as a change in voltage through a pair of simple electrical circuits. The reflective element can be returned to the selected position by adjusting the horizontal and vertical tilt of the reflective element according to the changes in voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America L.L.C.
    Inventors: Ian Boddy, Keith D. Foote, Kris D. Brown
  • Patent number: 7080914
    Abstract: A rearview mirror for a motor vehicle comprises an internal frame supporting a reflective element and a motorized tilt actuator assembly for adjusting the reflective element about perpendicular axes. The reflective element is attached to the internal frame through a pivot connection. The position of the pivot connection on the internal frame relative to the tilt actuator assembly can be selectively changed so that a single internal frame can be incorporated into mirrors of different sizes. Alternatively, the position of the tilt actuator assembly relative to the internal frame can be selectively changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America L.L.C.
    Inventor: Ian Boddy
  • Patent number: 7063427
    Abstract: The present invention is a portable mirror device for hunters or other persons who need to extend their field of view to the side or rear without moving their head appreciably. The device is reversibly attached to a body-segment of the user and can either be raised to an active position or folded in a stored position against the body-segment. Also disclosed is an attachment-cuff for attaching the invention to the body-segment. The cuff comprises a rigid or semi-rigid inner member encased by a covering, which covering has two ends with closure means attached thereto for securing the cuff to the body-segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas Charles Cutler
  • Patent number: 7048395
    Abstract: A detent joint interconnecting first and second hinge pieces of vehicle mirrors. The detent joint includes an axis of rotation around which the hinge pieces are pivoted. A spring urged detent element carried by one of the hinge pieces for movement along a plane transverse to the axis of rotation and is movable in a direction of engagement. The detent element includes a surface with at least two protruding teeth. The hinge also includes a counter surface with complementary cuts formed therein which act with the teeth of the detent element to provide that at least two teeth of the detent element engage with the complementarily cuts in the counter surface to provide a detent position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America
    Inventors: Heinrich Lang, Wolfgang Seiboth, Georg Hecht, Stefan Centmayer
  • Patent number: 7004593
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror system includes a compass system and a display. The compass system is operable to display information indicative of a directional heading of the vehicle to a driver of the vehicle. The display comprises a plurality of ports formed in a reflective coating of a mirror reflective element and includes illumination sources positioned behind and generally aligned with corresponding ones of the ports. Each of the illumination sources may be energized to project illumination through a respective one of the ports such that the ports are backlit by the respective illumination sources, in order to convey the directional information to the driver of the vehicle. The system may include a microprocessor operable to control each illumination source via a respective wire connected between the microprocessor and each illumination source. The compass system may utilize a global positioning system for vehicle direction determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Andrew D. Weller, Rodney K. Blank, Kenneth L. Schierbeek, Kenneth Schofield, Niall R. Lynam, Troy O. Cooprider
  • Patent number: 6971757
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an automotive outside mirror assembly, and in particular, to a mirror adjustment mechanism with a compact and slim structure, allowing a precise adjustment of the mirror over a wider adjustment angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Pro Quip International Korea Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hyuk-Joon Ro
  • Patent number: 6948822
    Abstract: A mirror mounting apparatus for a mirror glass is provided. According to an aspect of the invention, a mounting rod having a bore and an outlet and affixable to a vehicle is also provided. The mirror mounting apparatus includes a mirror housing assembly with a base member for mounting to the mounting rod. The base member has an opening to deliver a wire from the outlet into the mirror housing assembly. A method for assembling the mirror mounting apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventor: Alexander Stenzel
  • Patent number: 6913364
    Abstract: A viewing panel device, such as a mirror device used inside a motor vehicle for observing an infant in a rear-facing child safety seat secured to the rear seat of the vehicle. In one embodiment, a support structure is attached to a rear surface of the viewing panel. In a more particular embodiment, the support structure includes a bottom panel having a top surface and a bottom surface that can contact the seat back top surface, and a diagonal support element that extends between the rear surface of the viewing panel at an upper end of the support element and the top surface of the bottom panel at a lower end of the support element. In another embodiment, the viewing panel device may be employed in a plurality of attachment configurations, for use with a plurality of possible vehicle configurations. In one configuration, the top tether anchorage point included in newer vehicles as part of the LATCH anchorage point system is employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Blue Ridge International Products Company
    Inventor: Michael T. Kane
  • Patent number: 6883923
    Abstract: A rear-mounted mirror assembly for trucks, vans and the like, for providing rear viewing as the vehicle is being backed up, for example, into a truck loading dock area. The mirror assembly comprises a mirror unit that is connected by a mirror arm to a support structure, e.g., a flange or bracket, that is fixed to the vehicle. The support structure projects minimally sideways of the vehicle and pivotably supports the mirror arm in a manner whereby the mirror unit and its arm can swing about a pivot axis, enabling the mirror and its arm to lie alongside a side wall of the vehicle or tightly against the rear of the vehicle. A return or rebound mechanism returns the mirror unit to its normal operational position, once contact with an obstruction that have pivoted the mirror unit from its normal position, has been removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Rosco, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 6857753
    Abstract: A viewing panel device, such as a mirror device used inside a motor vehicle for observing an infant in a rear-facing child safety seat secured to the rear seat of the vehicle. The viewing panel device may be employed in a plurality of attachment configurations, for use with a plurality of possible vehicle configurations. In one configuration, the top tether anchorage point included in newer vehicles as part of the LATCH anchorage point system is employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Blue Ridge International Products Company
    Inventor: Michael T. Kane
  • Publication number: 20040264016
    Abstract: A mirror mount includes a mirror-head-attached first mount component, a window-attached second mount component, and a tubular connector. The first component includes a base defining an attachment plane, an angled stem, and a first ball section with a clearance area around the stem. A bore extends into the stem for receiving an attachment screw. A clearance area is formed around the stem near the ball section and extends at an acute angle to the attachment plane, thus providing increased angular adjustability of the mirror head in at least an upward direction. The second component includes a ball section and angled extended stem, and is connected to the first component by the tubular connector. The first and second ball sections define a distance less than a distance from a flat side of the second component to the second ball section, thus providing improved rigidity against vibration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: John B. Ostreko, Joshua C. Owen
  • Patent number: 6827455
    Abstract: A precision optical devices having pin mounted reflector(s) are provided. The precision optical device, comprising first and second side panels, the first side panel having a hole formed therein, a first reflector comprising a first reflecting surface and a mounting pin extending from a first edge of the first reflector, the mounting pin received within the hole formed in the first side panel for mounting the first reflector between the panels at a first end of the panels, and a second reflector comprising at least a second reflecting surface, mounted between the side panels at a second end thereof in an orientation so that an incident light ray reflecting off of any of the reflecting surfaces is reflected to and off the other(s) of the reflecting surfaces in a direction substantially parallel to the incident light ray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: PLX, Inc.
    Inventor: Zvi Bleier
  • Publication number: 20040233558
    Abstract: A mirror system is described wherein a common framework is used which allows interchangeability for mirror styles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventor: Graham Rehill
  • Publication number: 20040218298
    Abstract: A mirror mounting apparatus for a mirror glass is provided. According to an aspect of the invention, a mounting rod having a bore and an outlet and affixable to a vehicle is also provided. The mirror mounting apparatus includes a mirror housing assembly with a base member for mounting to the mounting rod. The base member has an opening to deliver a wire from the outlet into the mirror housing assembly. A method for assembling the mirror mounting apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Applicant: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC.
    Inventor: Alexander Stenzel
  • Publication number: 20040218290
    Abstract: A mounting bracket (40) for suspending a clear aperture of the base face of a prism (30) has a frame providing a horizontal support surface for allowing light to pass through the clear aperture of the suspended prism (30). First, second, and third support elements (44, 46) are spaced apart on the frame for supporting the base face of the prism (30), suspending the clear aperture. The second and third support elements (44) are peripheral to the clear aperture. The center of gravity of the prism (30), vertically projected, lies on or within the triangle formed by the first, second, and third support elements (44, 46).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Franklin D. Ehrne
  • Publication number: 20040218295
    Abstract: A fastening assembly for door mirror is provided. The door mirror has an auxiliary mirror including, at its rear, a longitudinal block including two slits and a knurled surface, and a scale. The assembly comprises a C-shaped frame comprising hingedly coupled upper and lower bars and upper and lower arms. Each arm includes in interior knurled surface. The upper and the lower arms and the auxiliary mirror are threadedly secured together for engaging the knurled surfaces. Responsive to fitting the door mirror in a space confined by the bars and the arms by adjusting positions of the knurled surfaces of the arms relative to the knurled surface of the block by performing an unfastening and fastening of the arms and the block by observing the scale, fasten the door mirror in the space by tightening elastic straps over the rear of the door mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Ming-En Chen
  • Publication number: 20040212908
    Abstract: A frame structure to support a mirror inside a vehicle consists of a flexible, pliable yet rigid frame structure having two opposite ends, one end having an adhesive band to adhere to an interior surface of a vehicle and a second end onto which is fixedly attached a mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Mario Campion
  • Patent number: 6808278
    Abstract: A mirror device for a cap for allowing the user to see behind oneself and to either side which is especially useful when the user is riding a bicycle. The mirror device for a cap includes a first panel member having a back side and a front side and being adapted to be securely and pivotally disposed on an underside of a bill of a cap; and also includes a support assembly for supporting the first panel member upon the underside of the bill of the cap; and further includes a second panel member being hingedly attached to the first panel member and having a front side and a back side; and also includes a mirror being attached to the second panel member; and further includes an assembly for hingedly attaching the first and second panel members together. The support assembly allows the user to swivel the mirror left and right which allows the user to view behind oneself and to either side of oneself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Andrei A. Jirnov
  • Publication number: 20040207940
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly comprising a plate frame, a mirror adjacent a front of the plate frame, a pivot ball connected to the plate frame for pivoting the plate frame, and a mount connected to the pivot ball and configured to be connected to a windshield of a vehicle. At least one of the plate frame, the pivot ball and the mount are made of a material comprising a magnesium alloy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: John W. Carter, Wayne Rumsey, Kenton J. Ypma, Daniel J. Bostwick, Jeremy A. Fogg
  • Publication number: 20040201911
    Abstract: An outside rear-view mirror suitable for a motor vehicle, particularly for a passenger car of the sports car type, is provided with a housing accommodating a mirror glass plate is connected with a carrying device having supporting arms, which carrying device is supported on a body of the passenger car. For optimizing the rear-view mirror construction, the carrying device and the housing are produced separately from one another, free ends of the supporting arms of the carrying device, projecting into the housing and being connected with holding consoles of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventors: Gabi Koerner, Hugh Robinson
  • Publication number: 20040190168
    Abstract: A precision optical devices having pin mounted reflector(s) are provided. The precision optical device, comprising first and second side panels, the first side panel having a hole formed therein, a first reflector comprising a first reflecting surface and a mounting pin extending from a first edge of the first reflector, the mounting pin received within the hole formed in the first side panel for mounting the first reflector between the panels at a first end of the panels, and a second reflector comprising at least a second reflecting surface, mounted between the side panels at a second end thereof in an orientation so that an incident light ray reflecting off of any of the reflecting surfaces is reflected to and off the other(s) of the reflecting surfaces in a direction substantially parallel to the incident light ray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Zvi Bleier
  • Publication number: 20040190167
    Abstract: A mirror assembly, which is attached to a head rest portion of a rear seat in a motor vehicle, is provided. The mirror assembly includes a base plate, at least one fastening strap, universal ball joint, and mirror housing that holds a reflective mirror. The mirror is used for viewing a child sitting in a rear-facing child safety seat. The safety seat is placed on the rear seat of the motor vehicle so that the child faces rearward. The mirror allows a driver or passenger in the front seat of the vehicle to observe the child by looking in the rear view mirror of the vehicle. The mirror assembly can be either mounted directly to the head rest or directly to the seat back or to both the head rest and the seat back thereby bridging the gap therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Russell Berger
  • Patent number: 6796667
    Abstract: A tripod style mirror mount system for vehicles which secures the main mirror hole in a vehicle mount which is substantially in the shape of a socket subassembly that is secured to the vehicle and in which a spherical ball stud of the mirror pole is received and retained in a manner which allows the mirror to swivel relative to the body of the vehicle without being detached from the vehicle. First and second braces support the main mirror pole and maintain its position and prevent vibration. The terminal ends of the braces are anchored in joints by means of spherical ball studs which snap out when an obstruction is hit. Thereby the mirror assembly prevents being itself damaged or damaging the vehicle body when the mirror assembly inadvertently is struck by an obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Rosco Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Publication number: 20040184171
    Abstract: An external mirror assembly for a motor vehicle with a base (16) and an adjustable mirror head (12) and a pivot and vibration absorption mechanism (14) on the base (16) allowing manual adjustment of the mirror head (12) with respect to the base (16). The pivot and vibration absorption mechanism (14) has a ball joint (22, 26) to enable pivoting and frictionally engaging faces (36, 38, 42) spaced apart from the ball joint (22, 26) on the base (16) and the mirror head (12) to provide vibration absorption. The respective faces (36, 38, 42) are part spherical surfaces resiliently urged together by resilient means (46).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventor: Darryl Flynn
  • Publication number: 20040184172
    Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle is provided. The assembly has a holding component and clamping parts to clamp the mirror assembly to the holding component. Alternative embodiments of the holding component and clamping parts are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventors: Heinrich Lang, Wolfgang Seiboth, Stefan Centmayer
  • Publication number: 20040179282
    Abstract: A viewing panel device, such as a mirror device used inside a motor vehicle for observing an infant in a rear-facing child safety seat secured to the rear seat of the vehicle. In one embodiment, a support structure is attached to a rear surface of the viewing panel. In a more particular embodiment, the support structure includes a bottom panel having a top surface and a bottom surface that can contact the seat back top surface, and a diagonal support element that extends between the rear surface of the viewing panel at an upper end of the support element and the top surface of the bottom panel at a lower end of the support element. In another embodiment, the viewing panel device may be employed in a plurality of attachment configurations, for use with a plurality of possible vehicle configurations. In one configuration, the top tether anchorage point included in newer vehicles as part of the LATCH anchorage point system is employed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Applicant: Blue Ridge International Products Company
    Inventor: Michael T. Kane
  • Patent number: 6786612
    Abstract: A mirror which the viewer's reflection rotates clockwise or counterclockwise along with the rotation of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen Weinreich
  • Patent number: 6779901
    Abstract: A position sensing device for a mirror assembly displaced by an electric motor for a mirror assembly having a memory unit which relies upon position information. The position sensing device connects directly between the housing reinforcement member and the mirror glass. The position sensing device also includes inherent damping capabilities. A dampening assembly provides additional damping capabilities, thereby further limiting vibration of the mirror due to road and wind vibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventors: David Swindon, Adam S. Peacock, Andrew Churchett, Tony Gilbert, Paul R. Henion, James S. Sturek
  • Publication number: 20040160688
    Abstract: The present invention provides a laminated glass for vehicles exerting the functions that are difficult to be made compatible in combinations such as (1) a shade band in an interlayer and an optical device such as a CCD camera, (2) a heat shielding interlayer and an optical device, and (3) a heat shielding interlayer and a combiner. In this laminated glass for vehicles, the interlayer includes a first region and a second region that is either enclosed by the first region or formed by partially recessing an edge portion of the first region. The first region is provided with a light reducing function that imparts a light transmittance loss at least of visible light, and in the second region, the interlayer has a light transmittance loss of visible light that is smaller than that in the first region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Tatsuya Noguchi, Satoshi Furusawa
  • Publication number: 20040141245
    Abstract: An exterior mirror for a vehicle, which is forward foldable for storage and shipment of a vehicle. The mirror may also fold to the rear and includes lights and accessories in the sail and the mirror casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Applicant: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia, Pty.
    Inventors: Mark Olijnyk, Patrick McCaffery, Paul Schwarz, Alex Gersch, Paul VanDeLoo
  • Publication number: 20040125476
    Abstract: A motorized tilt actuator assembly comprises one or more threaded jack screws attached to a mirror glass case and traveling along one or more threaded actuator shafts with rotation of the motor. When a jack screw reaches its limit of travel, relative movement between the actuator shaft and the glass case can occur through a slip clutch mechanism during such time as the motor continues to operate. In one embodiment, the relative movement is accommodated by a spherical actuator head rotating in a compressively spring-biased socket. In another embodiment, the relative movement is accommodated by slippage along a friction surface interposed between the actuator shaft and the motor. Manual repositioning of the mirror can be accommodated by slippage of the jack screw threads past the actuator shaft threads, or by a coarse threaded interconnection of the jack screw and the actuator shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Applicant: MAGNA DONNELLY MIRRORS NORTH AMERICA LLC
    Inventors: Ian Boddy, Keith D. Foote
  • Publication number: 20040120055
    Abstract: The present invention provides an outer mirrors installed in an automobile, that has a capability to be reset into a housing position, features to have auxiliary mirrors to percept and monitor the front wheels and thereabout, has a flexibility for well appreciated apparent design, has no reflection of head lamp lights of oncoming automobiles thereby and is capable to perform the function of the auxiliary mirror in the night or in the dark place. The outer mirror comprises a mirror base extending outward and a mirror housing, being capable to be reset into the housing position, suspended under the mirror base with a rotation capability thereunder and a separation distance from the automobile, wherein a first auxiliary mirror facing obliquely downward is attached to the mirror housing on the surface facing to the automobile body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: MURAKAMI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hisaya Suzuki, Masaaki Matsuura, Masahiro Motomiya, Tohru Yamana
  • Publication number: 20040114263
    Abstract: An external rearview mirror includes a holder for affixing the mirror to a motor vehicle. A carrier plate is located in a housing that is secured to the holder. At least one mirror assembly with a mirror pane is mounted pivotally on the carrier plate in the housing. At least one means of adjustment is mounted on the carrier plate and bound to the mirror assembly. A base plate is attached to the carrier plate, the base plate having a honeycomb structure with a multiplicity of cells on at least one side. The cells are integral and normal to the base plate and may vary in both height and diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Heinrich Lang, Alexander Stenzel
  • Publication number: 20040114261
    Abstract: In an outer mirror device for a vehicle, an electrically-driven retracting unit, a mirror surface angle adjusting unit, a mirror surface angle detecting sensor, a foot lamp device, a heater, and an ECU which is a control device, which are respectively internal mechanisms, are disposed within a door mirror visor which covers a reverse surface side of a mirror and between the mirror and which a space is formed. A wire harness led into the door mirror visor is only two power source wires and three signal wires connected to the ECU. As compared with a structure in which the ECU is disposed outside of the door mirror visor, a number of wires can be greatly reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI-RIKA-DENKI-SEISAKUSHO
    Inventor: Masatsugo Ohashi
  • Publication number: 20040109249
    Abstract: A reflective element for a vehicle mirror is attached to a tilt actuator through an interlocking panel assembly comprising a pair of panels having a matrix of interlocking stems. The panel assembly enables the reflective element to be quickly and securely mounted to the tilt actuator, and subsequently separated from the tilt actuator without the use of specialized tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: MAGNA DONNELLY MIRRORS NORTH AMERICA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Ian Boddy
  • Publication number: 20040109246
    Abstract: A mirror in which the viewer's reflection rotates clockwise or counterclockwise along with the rotation of the mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen Weinreich
  • Publication number: 20040075921
    Abstract: An extendable foldable mirror for use on a vehicle is a side view mirror that is longitudinally extendable. A mechanism is provided for moving the mirror (10) from a first normal viewing position to a second longitudinally extended position. The mirror element or mirror housing is adjusted in response to extension or retraction of the mirror to provide a consistent viewing picture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Rob Evans, Roy Buckingham, Jerry Bottrill
  • Publication number: 20040057140
    Abstract: A reflector for a precision optical device is provided. The reflector comprises a reflective surface, a back surface, a thickness between the reflective surface and the back surface defining an edge of the reflector, at least one mounting pad located along at least a portion of the edge of the reflector for adhesion to a portion of the precision optical device, and a mounting pin extending from another portion of the edge of the reflector for adhesion within a hole in the precision optical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Zvi Bleier
  • Patent number: 6685325
    Abstract: A side vehicle mirror assembly (30) that utilizes a waveguide (42) to route light from a location at the vehicle/mirror assembly interface to an outboard location (46) on the mirror assembly. The side mirror assembly (30) includes the waveguide (42), a mounting member (32), and a mirror (34) attached to the mounting member. The waveguide (42) extends from a first location at the vehicle/mirror assembly interface to a second location at the mirror. A lamp (44) located either in The door panel (38) or at the first location is used to provide light into the waveguide, which then routes the light to the outboard (46) location for exterior illumination or signal lighting. A stacked waveguide arrangement can be used so that these multiple lighting functions can be incorporated together into the mirror assembly. Also disclosed is an optical coupling arrangement for routing light to a breakaway side mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc.
    Inventors: George Robert Hulse, John Christopher Brown
  • Patent number: 6652108
    Abstract: A device for a vehicle adjustable rear-view mirror is provided, wherein the device includes a fixed portion as well as a mirror support capable of pivoting relative to the portion using a driving motor and at least one driving gear. Also a potentiometer is used for generating a signal that indicates the pivot angle between the fixed portion and the mirror support which is considered as a module. The potentiometer includes a resistive member and a wiper, one of which is coupled to a base member attached to the fixed portion while the other is connected through a friction coupling to the driving gear or to a rotating part that co-operates with the same. One of those two members comprises two abutments having an angular deviation that corresponds to the pivot angle, the fixed portion and the mirror support, while the other member comprises two counter-abutments that co-operate with said abutments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Magna Auteca AG
    Inventor: Peter Schillegger
  • Patent number: 6648484
    Abstract: A case comprises a back wall, a side wall integral with the back wall, and a lip extending from the side wall. The lip defines an opening that is adapted to receive a mirror element. A biasing element is adapted to act upon the mirror element when the mirror element is encapsulated in the case to apply a force against the mirror element in a first direction. The biasing element is coupled to the side wall of the case to pull the side wall in a second direction so as to pull the lip against the mirror element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen L. Burke
  • Patent number: 6648480
    Abstract: An external rearview mirror of an automotive vehicle has a mirror plate set including a mirror plate and a rear cover, a moving mechanism for the mirror plate set and including a bearing/electric motor set, a housing in which the mirror plate set and the bearing/motor set are accommodated, a base with which the housing is connected in an articulated manner, the base being fixable to a side of a vehicle, the mirror plate set and the bearing/motor set being directly fixed with one another with the use of parts including one part provided in the mirror plate set and another part provided in the bearing/engine set and connectable with the one part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Metagal Industria E Comercio Ltda.
    Inventor: Pedro Takashi Miyabukuro