With Mirror Supporting Column Or Sliding Adjustment Patents (Class 359/881)
  • Patent number: 7210800
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 7212325
    Abstract: A mirror mounting unit is disclosed for use in a limited rotation motor system. The mirror mounting unit includes a mirror, and a tapered base for coupling the mirror mounting unit to an output shaft of a limited rotation motor. In various embodiments, the tapered base may be male or female, the mirror may be formed integral with the tapered base, and the taper may be linear or non-linear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: GSI Group Corporation
    Inventor: Kristopher Pruyn
  • Patent number: 7178925
    Abstract: A retractable mirror assembly for a tractor trailer includes a base component having a pair of arms and a motorized hydraulic cylinder mounted on the upper surface thereof. The arms are pivotally attached at a lower end to the base component and at an upper end to a mirror. The hydraulic cylinder includes an upper distal end that is pivotally attached to an outer edge of the mirror. A control panel within the vehicle passenger compartment activates the motor allowing a driver to automatically extend and retract the mirror between an operable and inoperable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Donald R. Tidwell
  • Patent number: 7165853
    Abstract: The present application includes a vehicle mirror which includes an approach light in the attachment assembly. The approach light is a single light source positionable in relation to predetermined inputs for directing light to various areas, depending on the inputs. Additionally, an intercom system is provided for communication between the interior of the vehicle and exterior of the vehicle, by way of the vehicle mirror. Also, a remote sensor is utilized to set predetermined memory positions of interior vehicle components such as seats, steering columns and brake pedals. This allows customization of the interior components upon an individual's approach to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Robert W. Gilbert, Kash A. Munir, Mark Olijnyk, Patrick McCaffrey, Paul M. Schwarz, Alex Gersch, Paul van de Loo, Maarten J. Schuurmans, Andrew D. Herps, Adam S. Peacock, Richard G. Teal, Chris Moase
  • Patent number: 7134760
    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: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Gabi Koerner, Hugh Robinson
  • Patent number: 7055973
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Rosco Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 7044612
    Abstract: A rearview mirror arrangement for vehicles, in particular for utility vehicles, is disclosed which includes a mirror carrier plate 1 on which a mirror pane 11 is affixed, an adjusting unit 2 that can be attached directly to a vehicle-mounted, mirror support 4. A platform unit 22 capable of motorized rotation 23, 24 relative to a base unit 21 about at least one axis, is attached directly to the adjusting unit and a housing 3. The mirror carrier plate, as well as the housing, is thus attached directly to the platform unit and rotates with the platform unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Centmayer, Heinrich Lang, Wolfgang Seiboth
  • Patent number: 7021780
    Abstract: A telescopic mirror attachment for use with medical, dental and surgical instruments to allow hands-free use of the mirror. The telescopic mirror attachment comprises a telescopic arm to which a mirror and a tightening grip are attached at either end by rotational connectors which allow axial and rotational positioning of the mirror relative to the medical, dental or surgical instrument. The tightening grip may be lined with an elastomeric or compressible material that provides further gripping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Raed S. Kasem
  • Patent number: 6991340
    Abstract: A device for reflecting an image to a user's eyes that includes a viewing member having an interior mirror positioned in angled alignment with the user's eye; and an exterior mirror positioned in spaced alignment to the interior mirror. The exterior mirror is adjustable with respect to the interior mirror. The device further includes a pair of interior mirrors positioned in angled alignment to the user's eyes; and a pair of exterior mirrors in spaced alignment to the interior mirrors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventors: Ray Theodore Townsend, Jr., Liansuo Xie
  • Patent number: 6976761
    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: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Mark Olijnyk, Patrick McCaffery, Paul Schwarz, Alex Gersch, Paul VanDeLoo
  • Patent number: 6962420
    Abstract: A vehicle mirror assembly for mounting a mirror to a vehicle body includes a connection head, a positive lock assembly, and a holder. The holder and the connection head are attached to one or the other of a tie bar and a mirror support arm and rotatably secured together. Methods of assembling and using the vehicle mirror assembly are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Dean Branham
  • Patent number: 6962422
    Abstract: A single shell side-view mirror assembly is disclosed which provides improved aerodynamic features and improved vibrational resistance characterized by an aerodynamically domed shell structure, interchangeable mirror elements, an electrically activated vibration dampening element and a static vibration dampening elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Roscoe, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • 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: 6947191
    Abstract: An adjustment apparatus of a reflection mirror is disclosed, the apparatus comprising a holding base plate, an affixing block affixed on the holding base plate, at least one adjusting set, and a rotatable chassis affixed onto the affixing block, wherein the reflection mirror is affixed on the rotatable chassis. Moreover, the adjusting set comprises an adjusting screw and an adjusting spring. The adjusting screw is mounted onto the holding base plate and transpierces the holding base plate to fix an extending portion of the rotatable chassis. The adjusting spring associated with the adjusting screw supports an extending portion of the rotatable chassis to counterbalance the adjustments in the adjusting screw. When the adjusting screw is rotated in, the rotatable chassis rotates along a first direction and compresses the adjusting spring. When the adjusting screw is rotated out, the rotatable chassis rotates along an opposite direction to the first direction and stretches the adjusting spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Coretronic Corporation
    Inventors: Kuo-Wen Chen, Chih-Chung Kang
  • Patent number: 6910781
    Abstract: A mirror assembly for a vehicle is securable to a tubular member that defines a central axis and is secured to the vehicle. The mirror assembly comprises a clamping assembly including a concave surface that is engagable with the tubular member. A housing is coupled to the clamping assembly and supports a mirror. A latching assembly engages the clamping assembly and the housing and is movable between a latched position and an unlatched position. In the latched position, the housing is held substantially fixed with respect to the tubular member. In the unlatched position, the clamping assembly is movable in a direction substantially parallel to the central axis and is pivotable about the central axis, and the housing is pivotable with respect to the clamping assembly about a pin axis that is substantially perpendicular to the central axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Velvac, Inc.
    Inventors: Leo T. Spychalla, Dan H. Schneider
  • Patent number: 6896379
    Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Britax Rainsfords Pty. Limited
    Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
  • Patent number: 6896380
    Abstract: An extendable outside rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a spring-clamped slide mechanism that ensures a zero clearance fit between sliding components to avoid vibration. Bearing members between the sliding components reduce friction and provide a consistent reaction force to ensure smooth operation of an actuator mechanism which extends or retracts the mirror assembly along a support arm. The support arm includes V-shaped guiderails vertically aligned with opposing V-shaped guiderails on the mounting bracket assembly. Rod-like bearing means are interposed between the opposing guiderail pairs. A cantilever clamp jaw with spring means biases one guiderail toward the other with a high spring force which provides superior rigidity and thus enhanced mirror image clarity. The attachment end of the support arm may be divided into two attachment legs providing a dual-arm configuration for less wind resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Delbar Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. McPherson, Keith Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 6877868
    Abstract: A vehicle external review-view mirror assembly having an extension and retraction mechanism for a telescopic arm support that connects a mirror head to a mirror mounting bracket is disclosed. The assembly comprises: a hollow outer arm extending from the bracket, an inner arm mounted to the head and extending into the outer arm for relative sliding movement out of and into the outer arm; a driving wheel rotatably mounted to the inner arm or the head; a driven wheel rotatably mounted to the inner arm and positioned within the outer arm at a location spaced apart from the driven wheel; and a toothed belt extending between the driving wheel and the driven wheel for power transmission between them. A pair of laterally spaced apart contact rollers are mounted coaxially with the driven wheel, the pair of contact rollers engaging spaced apart bearing surfaces depending from the outer arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark Leonid Olijnyk, Daniel Joseph Flynn
  • Patent number: 6830352
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Heinrich Lang, Wolfgang Seiboth, Stefan Centmayer
  • Publication number: 20040233557
    Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle includes a pivot joint assembly pivotally mounting a movable portion to a base portion of the mirror assembly. The pivot joint assembly includes a support member, a receiving portion and a bracing member. The bracing member engages the receiving portion and extends radially inward toward the support member. The receiving portion is slidably movable relative to the bracing member in the longitudinal direction. A retaining clip is positioned at least partially around the support member and engages the bracing member and limits longitudinal movement of the bracing member relative to the support member. The bracing member is rotationally slidable relative to the receiving portion and/or the retaining clip in response to rotational movement of the receiving portion relative to the support member about a pivot axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventors: Leo W. Pavao, Daniel D. Kasbohm, Amit S. Barve
  • Patent number: 6796666
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting an object precisely in a specific plane. An object is mounted on small support points rather than flat pads or other flat surfaces. The support points are stiff but not completely rigid. Exactly four support points are used. Mechanical forces are sufficient to slightly compress the two higher support points on a diagonal and to slightly compress the object so that the object presses against all the support points, with a higher amount of compression for one pair of diagonal points relative to the other two points. In an example embodiment, the support points are formed at the intersection of curved surfaces or at the intersection of multiple planar surfaces. In a specific example embodiment, the points are formed at the intersection of cylindrical surfaces. The points are fabricated by a cylindrical cutting bit that has partial-cylinder grooves formed circumferentially in the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Stephen J. Cook, David W. Boyd
  • Publication number: 20040141244
    Abstract: A mirror with slidable set is disclosed having a primary mirror with a back surface and a slidable set integrated to the back surface. The slidable set includes at least one lever pair fixed with an articulated joint to the back surface of the primary mirror. An opposite end of the at least one lever pair is fixed with an articulated joint to at least one moveable element that is mounted slidably on at least one guide. The at least one guide is placed parallel to the back surface of the primary mirror and at a horizontal height generally the same as the horizontal height of the ends of the at least one lever pair. The moveable element is joined to a driving unit. The driving unit may comprise an electric motor with a switching on/off unit, a pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Lester L. Wegrzecki
  • Publication number: 20040125477
    Abstract: A rear view hunting mirror which is characterized by a mirror mounted on one end of a flexible “gooseneck” coupling, with a curved mount bracket attached to the opposite end of the flexible coupling and fitted with an adjustable mount strap and buckle combination for attaching the rear view hunting mirror to a post, tree or a tree limb. The mirror can then be manipulated into position in front of a hunter in the tree or a hunter positioned on a tree stand attached to the tree or post, for viewing the area behind the hunter and spotting game in that area. A camouflage sheath can be fitted over the flexible coupling to aid in camouflaging the rear view hunting mirror from deer and other game. The flexible coupling has multiple, removable coupling digits connected in a friction-fit and attached to the mirror and to the bracket to facilitate a flexible coupling of desired length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventors: Dax Glenn Carter, Norval Shea Smith
  • Publication number: 20040017626
    Abstract: A telescopic mirror attachment for use with medical, dental and surgical instruments to allow hands-free use of the mirror. The telescopic mirror attachment comprises a telescopic arm to which a mirror and a tightening grip are attached at either end by rotational connectors which allow axial and rotational positioning of the mirror relative to the medical, dental or surgical instrument. The tightening grip may be lined with an elastomeric or compressible material that provides further gripping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Raed S. Kasem
  • Patent number: 6655807
    Abstract: An extensible outside rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a spring-clamped slide mechanism that ensures a zero clearance fit between sliding components to avoid vibration. Bearing members between the sliding components reduce friction and provide a consistent reaction force to ensure smooth operation of an actuator mechanism which extends or retracts the mirror assembly along a support arm. The slide mechanism includes V-shaped guiderails vertically aligned with opposing V-shaped guiderails on the mounting bracket assembly. Rod-like bearing means are interposed between the opposing guiderail pairs. A cantilever clamp jaw with spring means biases one guiderail toward the other with a high spring force which provides superior rigidity and thus enhanced mirror image clarity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Delbar Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. McPherson, Thomas Culp, Cory Brechbill, Keith Fitzgerald
  • Publication number: 20030210484
    Abstract: A light reflecting film is formed such that a plurality of concave portions or convex portions formed on a base are aligned randomly over a plane by using a mask in which the positions of light-transmitting parts or non-light-transmitting parts are allocated according to a random function, and the light-transmitting parts or non-light-transmitting parts are aligned randomly over a plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: Toshihiro Otake, Mutsumi Matsuo, Tadashi Tsuyuki
  • Patent number: 6634758
    Abstract: A vehicle handlebar mirror system (10) is provided having a flexible securement member (40) received within a bore (30) of the vehicle handlebar (12). A flexible securement member (40) has a mirror member (20) removably mounted in it for providing a rider of the bicycle with appropriate rear and side views. A second end (46) of the flexible securement member (40) receives an expanding plug member (50). The expanding plug member (50) frictionally engages both a second end (46) and an inner wall (32) of the handlebar (12). A fastener (60) threadedly engages both the flexible securement member (40) and the expanding plug member (50) thus maintaining position of flexible securement member (40) within handlebar (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventors: Robert J. Preis, Nils Dennis
  • Publication number: 20030142425
    Abstract: A wide vision rearview mirror apparatus includes a generally rectangular planar mirror mounted within an elongated mirror housing extending along a longitudinal axis substantially across the windshield of the vehicle, and a pair of spaced adjustable mounts extending from the back portion of the housing for mounting the housing to the windshield. The planar mirror preferably extends at an angle to the longitudinal axis. Each mount comprises a telescopic main body extending generally perpendicular to the housing, and joint mechanisms extending from either end. The joint mechanisms can provide a wide range of adjustments which enable the mirror and housing to be adjusted to suit a wide variety of drivers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Jose Bustos
  • Patent number: 6598983
    Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly includes a support structure fixedly mounted to the exterior side of the motor vehicle. A mounting structure comprising a generally U-shaped member having a bight portion and a pair of leg portions defining spaced apart and parallel tubular members is mounted to the support structure for angular movement about a generally vertically extending axis with respect to the vehicle. A mirror housing is slidably mounted to the mounting structure and includes a pair of openings for slidably receiving the tubular members therein. A mirror is mounted to the mirror housing. A clamp is secured to the mirror housing and has a removable clamp-associated insert providing a mounting structure engaging surface for engaging the mounting structure in tightly fit relation so that the mirror housing can be manually repositioned in a lateral direction towards or away from the vehicle through an infinite range of positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Magna Mirror Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Ian Boddy
  • Patent number: 6592231
    Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
  • Patent number: 6578974
    Abstract: A micromachined apparatus for reflecting light is described that is designed to reduce losses in quality or intensity of light. Mirrors are used having lengths that are longer than their widths to reduce clipping of light when a mirror is located at an angle with respect to light falling thereon. Relatively long mirror torsion components are used to reduce forces required to pivot the mirrors. Regardless of the dimensions of the mirrors and the use of long torsion components, the mirrors are still located relatively close to one another. The relatively close positioning of the mirrors is due to a combined use of notches formed in support frames to which the torsion components are secured, oval shapes of the mirrors which take up less space than rectangular shapes, matching oval openings in the support frames, and the arrangement of the support frames in a non-rectangular array wherein tips of the support frames are located between one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Calient Networks, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger Jonathan Helkey
  • Publication number: 20030095348
    Abstract: A vehicle wide-angle rearview mirror frame has a storage box pivotally connected at a lower front edge to a lower rear edge of the rearview mirror frame, so that the storage box could be opened or closed by turning the rearview mirror frame away from or toward a front opening of the storage box. The storage box is then clamped onto a mounting plate of the rearview mirror frame of the vehicle. Miscellaneous items may be conveniently positioned in the storage box behind the wide-angle rearview mirror frame for easy access of these items without affecting the original function of the rearview mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: Ying-Tu Kuo
  • Patent number: 6565220
    Abstract: A swivel mirror assembly for providing an infinite number of perspective views by means of pivoting the mirror assembly to various desired positions. The swivel mirror assembly includes a frame assembly which is pivotally coupled to a support surface and a mirror assembly which is pivotally coupled to the frame assembly, whereby allowing the frame to be positioned with respect to the support surface and the mirror assembly positioned with respect to the frame assembly such that an infinite number of perspective views can be achieved. In an embodiment, a second mirror is used to facilitate viewing a rear side of the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Roger D. Hayward
  • Publication number: 20030030924
    Abstract: An attaching part of a reflecting mirror is fixed to a guardrail of a road. A solar of a solar-powered light emitter accumulates electricity by sunlight of the daytime, and the light emitting diode emits light at nighttime. Therefore, when the front panel is irradiated with headlight of an automobile running at nighttime, the light is reflected off the diamond cut of the rear surface, in particular, then the light is reflected off the surface of the inner panel on which reflecting surface work is made, and the reflected light is irregularly reflected by the diamond cut surface of the rear surface of the front panel, thereby functioning as a driving sign of the running automobile in combination with the emitted light from the light emitting diode. Furthermore, the dirt adhered to the front surface of the front panel is automatically peeled off because of the self purification effect of titanium oxide with which the front surface is coated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Applicant: TAKAROKU SHOJI CO.,LTD.
    Inventor: Noboru Takahashi
  • Patent number: 6511193
    Abstract: A small panel member of flexible, magnetized sheet material with a front surface at least partially covered with highly reflective material, and a back surface including an adhesive strip. The apparatus may be stored in a vehicle until needed, and placed on the front, rear or sides of a vehicle by applying the magnetized panel to a metallic surface. Alternatively, the adhesive strip may be used to affix the panel to a non-magnetic surface on the vehicle. A short length of cable is connected to the panel and terminates in an anchor, so that when the panel is affixed to the outside of the vehicle, the cable can be passed through the jamb gap between the trunk lid and body, or door and door jamb, with the block locked inside the trunk or passenger compartment, effectively locking the panel to the vehicle to prevent displacement or theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: Carol A. Furr
  • Patent number: 6505943
    Abstract: This invention relates to a retraction and extension mechanism for extending or retracting a set of telescopic supports that connect a mirror head (10) to a mirror mounting bracket (11). It comprises a mirror mounting bracket (11) with a first tube (18) projecting from the mounting bracket (11). The mirror head (10) has a support (19) projecting from it that locates into and slides back and forth within the first tube (18). A roller (34) is mounting with respect to the support (19) and cable (29) is attached at one end with respect to the first tube (18) and a point between the roller (34) and the mirror head (10). It extends to and around the roller (34) and into the mirror head (10). The other end of the cable (29) extends into and is attached with respect to the first tube (18). A capstan (31) is located within the mirror head (10) and engages the cable (29).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark Olijnyk, Gary Gordon Leslie Fimeri, Paul Van De Loo, Simon Orme
  • Patent number: 6499851
    Abstract: A trailer back-up mirror which can be-removably attached to the frame of a boat, camper, recreational vehicle or other trailer for facilitating alignment of the hitch ball on a towing vehicle with the trailer hitch as the vehicle is backed toward the trailer, in order to couple the trailer hitch to the hitch ball. In a preferred embodiment the trailer back-up mirror is characterized by a support shaft which is magnetically and removably attached to the trailer frame. An adjusting shaft is adjustably extendible from the support shaft and a flexible gooseneck shaft extension projects from the extending end of the adjusting shaft. A rectangular mirror mount plate terminates the shaft extension and a flat mirror and convex mirror are mounted on the mirror mount plate. In use, the gooseneck shaft extension is initially adjusted to position the mirror mount plate such that the trailer hitch and hitch ball appear in the convex mirror, and the trailer hitch appears in the flat mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventors: Louis S. Kelly, Glen E. Kelly
  • Patent number: 6491403
    Abstract: An assembly for observing an infant in a rear facing child safety seat located on a rear seat of a motor vehicle which includes a mirror and a mirror support arm. The mirror support arm includes a base or lower portion that is configured to be coupled to a child seat or otherwise held in position thereby. An upper portion of the mirror support arm includes a portion that is configured to secure the mirror thereto in an adjustable manner, so that the mirror can be aligned to provide a person sitting in a front seat of the motor vehicle with a line of sight to the infant which line of sight that is directed off the mirror and a rear view mirror that is provided in the front portion of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Derek A. Edgar
  • Publication number: 20020181129
    Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
  • Patent number: 6485154
    Abstract: A mirror attached to a child car safety seat. The mirror is attached to the car seat by means of a flexible stem connected to a base module attached to the car seat. The stem may be bent to any desired position. The base module may be manipulated to also alternate the position of the mirror. The mirror and stem may be removed from the base module. A fabric cover with elastic edging is positioned over the back of the mirror and flexible stem. The fabric cover may have a stuffed figure attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Patricia Nolan-Brown
  • Patent number: 6485151
    Abstract: A motorcycle rear view mirror assembly for addition to motorcycles and like vehicles providing a view of both the rear sides, and directly behind and adjacent to the rear of the motorcycle which will increase the safety of the operator when changing lanes and will make the rider aware of vehicles approaching too close behind them. The device features a first mirror positionable to an angle to reflect the area to the side of a motorcycle into the view of the rider and a second mirror attached to said assembly adjacent to an outside edge of first mirror and a provision for adjustment of the face of the second mirror toward the inside edge of the first mirror to an operative angle between 3 and 25 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Michael P. Coleburn
  • Publication number: 20020149863
    Abstract: An extensible outside rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a spring-clamped slide mechanism that ensures a zero clearance fit between sliding components to avoid vibration. Bearing members between the sliding components reduce friction and provide a consistent reaction force to ensure smooth operation of an actuator mechanism which extends or retracts the mirror assembly along a support arm. The slide mechanism includes V-shaped guiderails vertically aligned with opposing V-shaped guiderails on the mounting bracket assembly. Rod-like bearing means are interposed between the opposing guiderail pairs. A cantilever clamp jaw with spring means biases one guiderail toward the other with a high spring force which provides superior rigidity and thus enhanced mirror image clarity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventors: John S. McPherson, Thomas Culp, Cory Brechbill, Keith Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 6446999
    Abstract: A trailer hitch alignment system for providing a driver of a vehicle the ability to visually align the hitch of the vehicle with the tongue of a trailer. The trailer hitch alignment system includes a hitch including a base portion and a joint member extending from the base portion. The hitch assembly further includes a set rod extending upwardly from the base portion. The set rod is positioned proximate the joint member. A mirror assembly is removably couplable to the set rod. The mirror assembly includes a mirror pivotally coupled to a mirror connection frame. The mirror is pivotal about a generally horizontal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Arthur C. Davis, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6435684
    Abstract: A side view mirror apparatus for providing a driver with increased visibility around a vehicle. The apparatus comprises a mirror housing having a cavity for insertion of a distal portion of a rod, the housing being rotatable about the rod. A clip is attached to the proximal portion of the rod for clipping the side view mirror apparatus to a vehicle, preferably a window edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Zu Sheng Yu
  • Patent number: 6428173
    Abstract: Microelectromechanical structures (MEMS) are provided that are adapted to controllably move mirrors in response to selective thermal actuation. In one embodiment, the MEMS moveable mirror structure includes a thermally actuated microactuator adapted to controllably move along a predetermined path substantially parallel to the first major surface of an underlying microelectronic substrate. A mirror is adapted to move accordingly with the microactuator between a non-actuated and an actuated position. In all positions, the mirror has a mirrored surface disposed out of plane relative to the first major surface of the microelectronic substrate. The microactuator provided herein can include various thermal arched beam actuators, thermally actuated composite beam actuators, arrayed actuators, and combinations thereof. The MEMS moveable mirror structure can also include a mechanical latch and/or an electrostatic latch for controllably clamping the mirror in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: JDS Uniphase, Inc.
    Inventors: Vijayakumar R. Dhuler, Mark David Walters, Edward A. Hill, Allen Bruce Cowen
  • Patent number: 6416192
    Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
  • Patent number: 6412965
    Abstract: A device which enables a driver of a vehicle to monitor an infant in a rear seat by the rear view mirror of the vehicle, where the device is portable, universally applicable to passenger vehicles and non-destructive of the vehicle interior yet secure against vehicular vibration. The device consists of a non-threaded telescoping mast that is held into a selected position by a clip, and a mirror for viewing the infant which mast is positioned between the top of the backseat and the headliner secured by outward pressures from a backseat pad and an upper pivotal pad. The pivotal pad can be attached to the mast by a ball and socket for allowing 360 degrees of pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Parent PRoducts Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis H. Menefee
  • Patent number: 6402332
    Abstract: A light-weight and highly rigid mirror support structure is provided which is capable of maintaining a relation between the relative positions of a main mirror and an auxiliary mirror even with environmental variations in the place of installation or deformations of a mounting surface, and of preventing a deformation of the main mirror and the auxiliary mirror which would otherwise cause performance deterioration. A main mirror (1) and an auxiliary mirror (2) are disposed a predetermined distance apart from each other in a face-to-face relation. A main mirror support member (3) and an auxiliary mirror support member (4) serve to support the main mirror (1) and the auxiliary mirror (2), respectively. A plurality of rods (15a) connect the main mirror support member (4) and the auxiliary mirror support member (4) with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hisayuki Mukae
  • Patent number: 6402331
    Abstract: A vehicle mirror which is constructed of two joined base parts, wherein the one base part is a mirror frame secured to a vehicle and the other base part is a mirror frame covering, and both base parts comprise complementary plug-in parts of a plug-type connection. The one plug-in part (1a) is secured to a sliding block (3) movably supported on the one base part (2a) and the other plug-in part (1b) is secured to the other base part (2b), wherein the sliding block (3) slides resiliently biased on a slide way (4) of the other base part (2b) during joining the base parts (2a, 2b), and the slide way (4) and sliding block (3) are formed such that the plug-in parts (1a, 1b) engage each other during joining the base parts (2a, 2b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Magna Reflex Holding GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Juraschek
  • Patent number: 6398378
    Abstract: A mirror device includes a base for attaching onto a supporting wall and having a stud, a socket secured onto the stud and having a ball, a barrel rotatably engaged onto the ball, and a mirror secured onto the barrel and rotatable and adjustable relative to the base, for allowing the mirror to be directed toward any selected angular position relative to the base. The socket includes a shank coupled to the ball with a neck. A lock sleeve is rotatably engaged onto the ball and threaded to the barrel and has a peripheral flange rotatably engaged between the ball and the shank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Ming Don Shieh