Pivotal Connection Patents (Class 248/479)
  • Patent number: 7490946
    Abstract: A vehicular exterior rearview mirror system comprises a reflective element assembly, a base frame coupling the reflective element assembly to a vehicle, a support arm for coupling the reflective element assembly to the base frame, and a pivot connection for pivotally coupling the support arm to one of the base frame and the reflective element assembly. The pivot connection comprises a pedestal having at least two detent ribs, and an opening for receipt of the pedestal therethrough having at least two detent channels. Pivoting of one of the support arm relative to the base frame and the reflective element assembly relative to the support arm moves a first one of the at least two detent ribs out of a first one of the at least two detent channels and into a second one of the at least two detent channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, James A. Ruse
  • Patent number: 7490945
    Abstract: A folding assembly for a vehicle side mirror that employs specialized ramped détentes. The folding assembly includes a pivot tube and a pivot spring rotatably coupled to a case frame and rigidly coupled to a base frame. The base frame includes a series of ramped détentes that are seated within corresponding recesses in the case frame. The inside angle (?1) of the ramps of the détentes is steeper than the outside angle (?2) of the ramps of the détentes according to a predetermined formula so that when the case frame is rotated relative to the base frame, and the détentes move out of their recesses, the force of the rotation is distributed along the entire length of the ramp to increase the durability performance of the mirror and thus its longevity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.
    Inventor: Ryan Proctor
  • Patent number: 7473001
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a mirror adjustment mechanism with an electrical connection having at least one pair of contact parts disposed movably relative to each other. The contact parts jointly form a sliding contact for maintaining electrical contact during pivotal motion of a mirror connector relative to a base frame, while one of the contact parts of the sliding contact is fixedly connected with the mirror connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: MCi (Mirror Controls International) Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Andreas Johannes Petrus Schalkwijk, Marius Brand
  • Patent number: 7452088
    Abstract: A mirror unit for a vehicle includes a base from which extends an arm holding a mirror housing. The arm is pivotably mounted in the base to permit the mirror to be pivoted toward the vehicle in the event that the mirror is struck, for example. The extended position of the mirror when not folded is defined by a detent in the pivoting movement. The detent position of the mirror is the result of a bolt that presses a spring. The spring in turn presses a hub on the arm against an indexing pivot post, so that ramps on the hub bear against ramps on the indexing pivot post and define the detent position of the mirror. The indexing pivot post has an arrangement of teeth that engage into tooth recesses on the base when pressed thereagainst by the spring. The detent position of the mirror can be changed by the user by the user releasing the bolt to relieve spring pressure on the teeth so that the teeth of the indexing pivot post disengage from the tooth recesses and can be pivoted to a new detent position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Velvac, Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert R. Brester, Thomas L. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20080277556
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an image-titling apparatus for reflecting light being projected from a light-scanning device through a fine tilting motion to improve quality of displayed images. The image-tilting apparatus includes a bracket capable of being installed in a support structure so as to be inclined with respect to the support structure. The bracket includes a flange formed so as to be inclined with respect to the bracket such that the flange can be attached to the support structure in parallel thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Hyun Cheal Bang
  • Patent number: 7448762
    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: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Inventor: Fu-Chu Su
  • Patent number: 7445191
    Abstract: A locking system for adjustably mounting a mirror mounting support arm with a motor vehicle which includes a locking device for securing with a motor vehicle having a recess at one end for receiving an end of a support arm. The recess is formed with a stem having at least one key formed along its length. The support shaft end is formed with at least one slot which is sized and located to matingly fit with the key. The system also includes an anchor plate for securing with the vehicle which is also adapted to mount a support arm holder. The support arm holder includes a body portion having a shoulder adjacent one end and a recess. The recess is formed with a stem therein and a key along the stem. This recess is adapted to receive a second end of the support arm. In use, the first and second support arm ends are inserted into the recesses about the stems with the slots engaged by the keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventor: Emmanuel Courbon
  • Publication number: 20080265122
    Abstract: An adjustable support arm for a vehicle exterior rearview mirror assembly comprising a holder base adapted for mounting to the vehicle; a holder pivotally carried on the holder base; a pivot control unit included in the holder for engaging the holder base to resist rotation of the holder on the holder base; the pivot control unit including: a compression spring disposed within a retainer opening of the holder; a bushing carried on the compression spring for engaging a bearing surface in the retainer opening; and, a retainer carried in the retainer opening and coupled to the holder base to retain the compression spring and the bushing in the retainer opening, wherein the retainer is constructed and arranged to direct the bushing laterally against the bearing surface and the compression spring biases the bushing against the retainer in sliding engagement to resist rotation of the holder on the holder base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Dean Branham
  • Patent number: 7422337
    Abstract: Two identical sides, include convex mirror 61, mirror-backing 62 and main-frame 21. Sides are attached together and to frame-backing 30 by three hinges 70. Three adjustable length legs 80 with swivel, magnetic feet 90 in main-frames 21 near corners. Front, centerline view provides reflections, right and left, 90 degrees to centerline, through 40 degree arcs backward. Mirrors are centered at rear of vehicle's trunk-lid so as visible through the inside rear-view mirror. Driver can thus easily and safely see critical areas which may otherwise be unobservable. This includes seeing around vehicles parked on either side. In highway driving, these mirrors allow a driver to clearly see “blind-spots” in the rear-view mirror. Risk of losing attention to the road and positive steering by turning around to look, is thus avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: David Eugene Fetherston
  • Patent number: 7419273
    Abstract: A pivoting exterior rearview mirror assembly comprises a mirror housing, a base, a support frame, a pivot assembly, and associated elements comprised primarily of a plastic or polymeric material. The pivot assembly is provided with a pivot reinforcement made of a relatively high-strength material, such as steel. The base is provided with a cantilever reinforcement made of a relatively high-strength material, such as steel. The reinforcing steel increases the load carrying capability of the plastic and reduces the potential material failure of unreinforced plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America, LLC
    Inventors: James A. Ruse, Keith D. Foote, Kenneth C. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20080179486
    Abstract: A motorcycle license plate support including a coupling portion and a support portion. The coupling portion is coupled to a rear fender of the motorcycle and includes a display surface that is visible through an aperture defined by the rear fender. The support portion depends from the coupling portion and includes first and second projections that house portions of a detent assembly. A coupling member is pivotably coupled to the support portion by the detent assembly and includes a first portion engaging the detent assembly and a second portion that is movably coupled to the first portion. The second portion is moveable to adjust a length of the coupling member to accommodate differently sized license plates, and the coupling member is pivotable with respect to the support portion between extended and folded positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Craig P. Russell, Richard J. Christoph, Michael R. Medina, Steven W. Osgood, Tyler T. Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 7393111
    Abstract: An outside mirror for a motor vehicle has a mirror foot (1) fastenable to the vehicle and a mirror carrier (3) fastenable to the mirror foot so as to be capable of swivelling about a swivelling axis. The mirror carrier (3) is fastenable to the mirror foot (1) by virtue of the latching of at least one first detent element (11) in a first detent contour (12). In this the position of the mirror carrier (3) relative to the mirror foot (1) at at least one defined swivel angle may be secured by virtue of the latching of at least one second detent element in a second detent contour (15, 16). The mirror carrier (3) in the latched state of the first detent element (11) is displaceable counter to the pressure of a spring element (11) at least far enough in the direction of the swivelling axis for the second detent element to be unlatchable from the second detent contour (15, 16) through swivelling of the mirror carrier (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Donnelly Hohe GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Fuchs, Helmut Weimer
  • Publication number: 20080149803
    Abstract: The operation torque during disengaging of clutch projections out of clutch grooves, is effectively suppressed from excessively increasing immediately after start of device assembling. In a door mirror device, a gear plate has clutch grooves made substantially in trapezoidal form, in circumferential cross-section, increasing in width from a groove bottom to an opening end. A clutch disk has clutch projections made substantially in trapezoidal form, in circumferential cross-section, decreasing in width in taper form from a base toward a tip wherein the top surfaces are made in an inverted radial form decreasing in width from inner periphery to outer periphery. Due to this, when a torque exceeding a set value is transmitted to the gear plate, the pressure-contact area of the clutch projection with the clutch groove gradually moves from inner periphery to outer periphery while moving the clutch disk upward against a bias force of a clutch spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI-RIKA-DENKI-SEISAKUSHO
    Inventors: Shigeki YOSHIDA, Yoshio TSUJIUCHI
  • Patent number: 7336409
    Abstract: The present invention provides a spatial flexure comprising: a base section; an end section; and an intermediate laterally contracting and expanding section connecting the base and end sections, whereby when the intermediate section laterally expands or contracts, the end section pivots downwardly or upwardly. The present invention further provides a spatial flexure scanner comprising: a base section; a scanning beam reflective section; an intermediate laterally contracting and expanding section connecting the base and reflective sections; an actuator associated with the base section; a scanning beam reflective mirror connected to the reflective section; means connecting the actuator and the reflective member for causing lateral contraction or expansion of the intermediate section in response to the actuator, whereby when the intermediate section laterally expands or contracts, the reflective section pivots downwardly or upwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignees: Inphase Technologies, Inc., Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Bradley J. Sissom
  • Patent number: 7334925
    Abstract: A lighted exterior rearview mirror system for a vehicle comprises an exterior rearview mirror assembly adapted for mounting to a side of a vehicle. The exterior mirror assembly includes a reflective element having a heater and a breakaway joint assembly having stationary member and a pivoting member that comprises a bracket supporting an electrically-operable actuator for positioning the reflective element about at least one axis. The exterior mirror assembly comprises a ground illumination or a signal light. The breakaway joint assembly includes a wire-way through which a wire cable passes carrying vehicle control signals and electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Todd W Pastrick, Linda K Molenkamp, Roger L Koops
  • Patent number: 7327215
    Abstract: A keypad assembly for use on a vehicular keyless entry system comprises a selectively concealable keypad coupled to a processor and accessible from the exterior of the vehicle and through which an access code may be manually entered. A mirror assembly is mounted on an exterior surface of the vehicle and includes a base fixedly coupled to the exterior surface and a mirror compartment rotatably coupled to the base and capable of being rotated between an extended, operational position and a folded, retracted position. The keypad is mounted on the base so as to be visible and accessible when the mirror compartment is in its folded retracted position and hidden and inaccessible when the mirror compartment is in it's extended, operational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Clark E. McCall, Fred W. Huntzicker
  • Publication number: 20080017777
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of a bracket system for supporting a shelf or countertop includes first and second separate elongated bracket members, each having a connection end and a distal end. The connection end of the first bracket member is adapted for removable attachment to the connection end of the second bracket member. Each of the first and second elongated bracket members includes fastener members for fixing the first and second bracket members together at the connection ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas M. Jones
  • Patent number: 7314285
    Abstract: A vehicular external rearview mirror system comprises a support arm pivotally connected to a base assembly attached to the vehicle. The pivot connection comprises an assembly of rotating plates separated by ball bearings and operated by a powerfold assembly. During normal operation of the mirror system, the ball bearings remained seated in bearing seats to enable the plates to rotate as a single unit when the powerfold assembly is actuated. However, manual folding or unfolding of the mirror system urges the ball bearings out of their bearing seats to travel along a raceway in one of the plates to facilitate the rotation of the plates relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America L.L.C.
    Inventors: James A. Ruse, Kris D. Brown
  • Patent number: 7303294
    Abstract: A vehicular external rearview mirror system comprises a support arm pivotally connected to a base assembly attached to the vehicle. The pivot connection comprises an assembly of rotating plates separated by ball bearings and operated by a powerfold assembly. During normal operation of the mirror system, the ball bearings remained seated in bearing seats to enable the plates to rotate as a single unit when the powerfold assembly is actuated. However, manual folding or unfolding of the mirror system urges the ball bearings out of their bearing seats to travel along a raceway in one of the plates to facilitate the rotation of the plates relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America L.L.C.
    Inventors: James A. Ruse, Kris D. Brown
  • Patent number: 7290891
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a generally Z-shaped mirror mounting bracket configured for attachment to a structural portion of the vehicle inside an engine bay of the vehicle, and a support member connected to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket includes a first flange and a second flange extending laterally in opposite directions from opposed edges of a connecting web. The first flange has two through-holes sized and positioned for connection to the structural portion inside engine bay by existing body panel mounting screws. The second flange and the connecting web are sized and configured so that the second flange extends out of the engine bay upon installation of the bracket. The support member carries a pivot element sized and configured to pivotally support a first support arm assembly for a rear view mirror unit and a second support arm assembly for a cross view mirror unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 7284869
    Abstract: A rear light viewing assembly and method includes a panel that has a top side and a bottom side. A magnet is attached to the bottom side of the panel. An arm is removably attached to and extends upwardly from the top side. The arm has an upper end and a lower end. A mirror is attached to the upper end of the arm so that a mirrored surface of the mirror faces away from the upper end. The panel is attached to a trunk of the vehicle. The mirror is orientated so that an image of the rear lights is reflected from the mirror to a rear view mirror of the vehicle. The rear lights are actuated and viewed by the rear view mirror to determine if they are illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: Michael C. Weaver
  • Patent number: 7270430
    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: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark L. Olijnyk, Daniel J. Flynn
  • Patent number: 7252398
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a generally Z-shaped mirror mounting bracket configured for attachment to a structural portion of the vehicle inside an engine bay of the vehicle, and a support member connected to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket includes a first flange and a second flange extending laterally in opposite directions from opposed edges of a connecting web. The first flange has two through-holes sized and positioned for connection to the structural portion inside engine bay by existing body panel mounting screws. The second flange and the connecting web are sized and configured so that the second flange extends out of the engine bay upon installation of the bracket. The support member carries a pivot element sized and configured to pivotally support a first support arm assembly for a rear view mirror unit and a second support arm assembly for a cross view mirror unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Rosco, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 7240888
    Abstract: A locking system for adjustably mounting a mirror mounting support arm with a motor vehicle which includes a locking device for securing with a motor vehicle having a recess at one end for receiving an end of a support arm. The recess is formed with a stem having at least one key formed along its length. The support shaft end is formed with at least one slot which is sized and located to matingly fit with the key. The system also includes an anchor plate for securing with the vehicle which is also adapted to mount a support arm holder. The support arm holder includes a body portion having a shoulder adjacent one end and a recess. The recess is formed with a stem therein and a key along the stem. This recess is adapted to receive a second end of the support arm. In use, the first and second support arm ends are inserted into the recesses about the stems with the slots engaged by the keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventor: Emmanuel Courbon
  • 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: 7207684
    Abstract: An exterior mirror assembly for a vehicle having a housing rotatably mounted to a base between an operable position and a retracted position. A mirror is supported by the housing and is movable with the housing between the positions. A female detent is disposed on the shaft of the base. A male detent is disposed on the housing within the chamber and is aligned with the female detent when the housing is in the operable position and is misaligned with the female detent when the housing is in the retracted position. An elastomeric material is disposed within the chamber between the shaft and the housing and between the detents for isolating movement between the base and the housing and for resisting the rotational movement of the housing relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: BASF Corporation
    Inventors: Anand Huprikar, Daniel G. Dickson, Michael Kronell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7207683
    Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an extendable mirror for improved rearward viewing. The mirror assembly includes a mirror housing, a mirror disposed in the mirror housing, and a structure to allow extension of the mirror between an inboard position and an outboard position. The mirror can include a post disposed in a mirror shell extending along a longitudinal axis offset from a central axis of the mirror. The structure for rotating the mirror can include a pivot part having a shaft disposed in an aperture in the mirror shell which is disposed along the longitudinal axis. The structure for extending the mirror can include a groove in the mirror housing in which the mirror frame is slidably disposed. The frame may be slid relative to the mirror housing from the inboard position to the outboard position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Jimmie L. Lewis
  • Patent number: 7165852
    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: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Leo W. Pavao, Daniel D. Kasbohm, Amit S. Barve
  • 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: 7137715
    Abstract: A pivot assembly for a vehicle external mirror having a mirror head mounted to a mirror base, the assembly comprising a first member (20), a second member (30), the first and second members (20, 30) mounted in or being part of the mirror base and the mirror head respectively, the first and second members (20, 30) having respectively first and second detent sides (24, 34), inner sides (26, 36) and apertures (28, 38) extending from the detent side (24, 34) to the inner sides (26, 36) respectively, detent means (56, 59), a spigot (50), a spring (60), means (56, 72) for applying a pre-load to the spring (60), the initial relative rotation between the second member (30) and the first member (20) in a first direction causes loading of the spring (60), the pre-load is maintained during subsequent relative rotations between the second (30) and the first member (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Maarten J. Schuurmans, Michael Holbrook
  • Patent number: 7137716
    Abstract: An auxiliary rear view mirror assembly for increasing a driver's lateral and rearward field of vision without adversely affecting the driver's forward field of vision. The auxiliary rear view mirror assembly is mounted at the rear of a vehicle in a location which is visible in a main rear view mirror of the vehicle. The auxiliary rear view mirror assembly is comprised of a pair of auxiliary rear view mirrors which are independently selectively adjustable about a pair of axes and selectively adjustable about a second axis which is in orthogonal relationship to the first pair of axis. In a first embodiment, the auxiliary rear view mirror assembly is mounted on a rear window of the vehicle. In a second embodiment, the auxiliary rear view mirror assembly is mounted on a rear brake light. In a third embodiment, the auxiliary rear view mirror assembly is combined with a rear brake light and is remotely adjustable by a set of controls which are accessible to the driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventors: Donald E. Bogard, John M. Sinanis
  • Patent number: 7124755
    Abstract: A support arm for use in a respiratory circuit is provided. The support arm includes a plurality of arm segments that are movably connected with one another such that the arm segments are adjustable with respect to another. At least one inflatable bladder is provided. The bladder is operably disposed at a point of connection between at least two of the arm segments. The arm segments are locked into position with respect to one another upon inflation of the bladder. The arm segments are released and positionable with respect to one another upon deflation of the bladder. Also, a respiratory support member is attached to one of the arm segments. The respiratory support member is configured for engaging the respiratory circuit to support the respiratory circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: D. Theron Van Hooser
  • Patent number: 7104660
    Abstract: A motorized retracting unit for a motorized retractable rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a shaft holder that has a main shaft, a gear case that is rotatably mounted on the main shaft, a plate, and a transmission mechanism that transmits driving power of a motor to the main shaft. The plate includes a plate member, a shaft supporting member that rotatably supports the main shaft, a motor mounting member on which the motor is mounted, and a flexible member that is provided between the shaft supporting member and the motor mounting member, enabling a relative movement of the shaft supporting member and the motor mounting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Ichikoh Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ikuo Sakata, Katsuyuki Izumi
  • 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: 7048394
    Abstract: A mechanism for adjustable installation of band plate-like members facilitates the separate adjustment of a cylindrical mirror in the normal direction of the reflecting face of the mirror, in a direction intersecting the normal direction, and the orientation of the reflecting face. A mirror holder housing a cylindrical mirror is disposed in a frame. Support shafts of the mirror holder penetrate holder plates attached slidably to the frame. Adjustment plates are linked to the ends of the support shafts from outside the holder plates, which are slid to allow the mirror holder to move in the normal direction of the reflecting surface of the mirror. The adjustment plate is rotated with respect to the holder plate to rotate about the support shafts and slides with respect to the holder plate and moves in a direction different from the normal direction to adjust the magnification, register, and skew of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Fujinon Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Takase, Mitsuhiro Ohno
  • Patent number: 7036945
    Abstract: A manual mirror device includes a mirror base, a shaft, a housing, a compression coil spring, a mirror unit, and engaging units. The mirror base is fixed to a vehicle. The shaft penetrates the mirror base and a lower portion of the housing. The housing turns integrally with the shaft. The compression coil spring generates elastic force for rotatably attaching the shaft and the housing to the mirror base. The mirror unit with a mirror is fitted to the housing. One engaging unit is provided on a surface of the shaft opposed to the mirror base. The other engaging unit is provided on a surface of the mirror base opposed to the shaft. The mirror unit is fixed to an operated position by engaging one engaging unit with the other engaging unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Ichikoh Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Ikuo Sakata
  • Patent number: 6994443
    Abstract: A vehicle external mirror assembly (10) comprising a mirror head (30) adapted to support a mirror, the mirror head (30) having an external shell (36), a first foam core (37) providing support for the shell (36), a mirror base (20) adapted for mounting to a vehicle, the mirror base (20) connected to the mirror head (30) or integral with the mirror head (30) and a plurality of electrical conductors (32) disposed within the first foam core (37), the conductors (32) are arranged and constructed to diffuse stress within the foam core (37).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Maarten Johannes Schuurmans, Robert William Gilbert
  • Patent number: 6979091
    Abstract: A door mirror set plate is formed of synthetic resin. On a base plate, a support shaft is vertically provided to rotatively support a door mirror body. A curved surface section is embedded at an outside periphery of a base of the support shaft. A flat section is formed to support a thrust washer so as to cross the curved surface section. Inside the support shaft, there is formed a wiring hole provided with a large diameter section, a small diameter section, and a step section. When a conducting wire is inserted into the wiring hole, the tip of a covering touches the step section for positioning. A stopper and a positioning protrusion are integrally formed on a base plate top surface. The stopper restricts rotational angles of the door mirror body. The positioning protrusion holds the door mirror body at a neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Mitsuba Corporation
    Inventor: Osamu Ichikawa
  • Patent number: 6972885
    Abstract: A precision mirror displacement assembly for controlling rotation of a mirror about a rotational axis to obtain a precise mirror orientation includes a mirror having an enhanced backside and a reflective front surface. The enhanced backside has a sufficient thickness to provide that attachment of mirror displacement control components, such as portions of actuator and position sensor assemblies, to the backside during manufacture of the mirror assembly does not cause distortion of the reflective front surface of the mirror. The enhanced backside also is of sufficient thickness to avoid distortion of the front surface based on interaction of the mirror with mechanical stops and actuator components that are attached to a base of a separate housing of the mirror assembly that opposes the backside of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: DRS Sensors & Targeting Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Dave Hiley, Jason Flathom, Tal Kiani, Mario Palombo, Jose A. Bernal
  • Patent number: 6969038
    Abstract: A vehicle external mirror assembly (10) comprises three main parts: a vehicle-to-mirror assembly attachment bracket (15), a mirror housing (20) and a mirror (41). Housing (20) comprises a thin molded external plastic shell (50) and a foam core (21), the foam anchoring and supporting the shell. A load diffuser (45) may be positioned within foam (21) to reduce the maximum tensile and compressive stresses within the foam (21). Attachment bracket (15) is of a similar construction with a thin shell (15) internal foam (18) and load diffuser (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Ingmar Manfred Birgden, Garry Gordon Leslie Fimeri, Robert William Gilbert, Duncan William Nash
  • 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: 6932484
    Abstract: A rear view mirror assembly comprising a frame and a mirror supported by the frame. The mirror includes a first mirror section and a second mirror section pivotally coupled to the first mirror section. A screw drive is supported by the frame for rotation relative to the frame, and has a first threaded surface. An arm has an inner arm end supported by the screw drive and extends outwardly from the screw drive to an outer arm end. The inner arm end has a second threaded surface that engages the first threaded surface. The outer arm end supports the second mirror section. An arm cam projects from the outer arm end away from the second mirror section and defines a first cam surface. A frame cam projects from the frame toward the second mirror section and defines a second cam surface contacting the first cam surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventors: Dale E. Brandt, Leo Spychalla
  • Patent number: 6932374
    Abstract: The trailer hitch coupling kit is a kit for aiding a driver in coupling the tow ball of a towing vehicle and the socket of a trailer coupler, by enabling the driver to view the tow ball and a guidepost mounted onto the trailer drawbar while seated in the driver's seat of the towing vehicle. It includes a mirror assembly with two pivotally connected support legs, a pair of foot members that allow for attachment of the mirror assembly to the rear of a towing vehicle in three distinct manners, a trailer drawbar guidepost with a magnetic base and a carrying case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventors: Tamara Timms, Don Timms
  • Patent number: 6926416
    Abstract: The present invention provides a multi-view mirror having a mirror frame including an inwardly disposed center and two outwardly disposed mirror mounting elements attached to the frame on opposite sides of the center. The multi-view mirror includes a first mirror having an outward edge pivotally mounted to one of the mounting elements of the frame and an inward edge disposed inwardly of the outward edge near the center of the frame and a second mirror having an outward edge pivotally mounted to one of the mounting elements of the frame and an inward edge disposed inwardly of the outward edge near the center of the frame. The first mirror and second mirror are angularly positionable relative to the frame wherein at least one of the first and second mirrors are pivoted about one of the mounting elements to form a generally angled mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Bradley Sawyer
  • Patent number: 6923463
    Abstract: The invention allows the alignment of a towing vehicle to a trailer tongue bringing the towing vehicle into close alignment with the tongue thus permitting the tongue to be lowered onto the hitch ball to complete the connection. This alignment can be accomplished exclusively by the driver of the towing vehicle without outside assistance. The alignment device includes a telescopic mast that includes a mirror with a ball and socket connection for aligning the mirror to the tongue of the trailer. The alignment device includes a pair of mounting plates that have a plurality of mounting holes to allow the mounting to several different sized trailer tongues, namely, a four inch, six inch and an eight inch tongue. Once the connection of the tongue to the ball is made, the alignment device remains in the position set for future use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventors: Jordan Ford, John Clifford Page
  • Patent number: 6918566
    Abstract: A retaining apparatus (H) for retaining a room accessory such as a mirror assembly (4) comprises a base (1), a linear spring (2), and a base inner (3). The linear spring (2) includes linear parts (21) and a curved part (22), which are connected together with hairpin parts (23). A base (1) is attached between the linear parts (21) while a flange (39) provided at the base inner (3) is attached inside the curved part (22). The flange (39) is provided at a socket (38). A pivot (52) of a stay 5 of the mirror assembly (4) is pressed into the socket (38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Murakami Corporation
    Inventors: Hisaya Suzuki, Masahiko Marusawa, Noriyuki Tsutsumi
  • 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: 6902284
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror system suitable for use in the interior cabin of a vehicle is provided that includes an interior rearview mirror assembly having an interior rearview mirror support adapted for attaching to a windshield or header portion of the vehicle. The interior rearview mirror assembly includes an interior rearview mirror casing and an interior rearview mirror reflective element. The interior rearview mirror casing is pivotally adjustable about the interior rearview mirror support whereby adjustment of said mirror casing by a driver of the vehicle adjusts the rearward field of view of the interior rearview mirror reflective element in order for the driver to see rearwardly when driving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Barry W. Hutzel, Niall R. Lynam, Darryl P. DeWind, John O. Lindahl
  • Patent number: 6899439
    Abstract: The regulating mechanism comprises a base member (2), which can be coupled to the mounting (1), and a cover (3), in which a mirror mounting plate (31), provided with a mirror glass (35), is assembled. The mounting (1), and/or the cover (3), are provided with positioning means (9, 26; 37, 38; 42) of the mirror mounting plate (31), enabling said plate (31) to be positioned in any of the positions habitually used, either manually or through a mechanical or electrical control device. The base member (2) and the cover (3) or the base member (2) and the mirror mounting plate (31) have respective and complementary dampening means which comprise, in the base member (2), dampening means (32), and in the cover (3), or in the mirror mounting plate (31), a dampening extension (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Fico Mirrors, S.A.
    Inventor: Jose Mendoza Vicioso
  • Patent number: 6896378
    Abstract: This invention relates to a mirror head (10) for an external vehicle mirror that comprises a load carrying structure (11) that is located within the mirror head, a connector (16) on the load carrying structure (11) that connects the mirror head (10) with respect to the vehicle, a shell (12, 13, 14) forming the external surface of the mirror head (10) within which at least a portion of the load carrying structure (11) locates, said connector (16) being positioned to enable connection with respect to the vehicle, and foam within the internal cavity of the shell (12, 13, 14), that acts to bond the load carrying structure (11) with respect to the shell components (12, 13, 14). This assembly provides a lighter mirror head (10) by comparison to conventional construction techniques while at the same time remaining rigid. It provides a means whereby loads can be transferred to the foam which are in turn transferred to the external shell components (12, 13, 14) of the mirror head (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Robert William Gilbert, Gary Gordon Leslie Fimeri, Paul Michael Schwarz, Patrick Joseph McCaffrey