With Specific Structure Or Properties For Diffusing Or Reflecting Light Patents (Class 296/97.2)
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Patent number: 12252013Abstract: A control system of a smart glass for a vehicle, which changes a transmittance and displays an image, includes the smart glass provided on a glass of the vehicle and having a changed transmittance or an image displayed thereon; an operation member into which a mode of the smart glass is input; and a control unit electrically connected to the smart glass and the operation member and configured to adjust the transmittance of the smart glass according to the mode input into the operation member, or to control the smart glass so that the image is displayed through the smart glass.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2022Date of Patent: March 18, 2025Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia CorporationInventor: Ki-Eun Kim
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Patent number: 11951812Abstract: Methods and systems for controlling a sunshade of a vehicle. The methods and systems receive a route plan from a first location to a second location, predict a sun parameter indicative of sun glare on the window for the route plan based on solar direction and vehicle heading at distributed locations throughout the route plan, and activate the sunshade based on the sun parameter so as to shade the window.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2021Date of Patent: April 9, 2024Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: Yunxiu Zhang
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Patent number: 11932088Abstract: A virtual visor system includes a visor having a plurality of independently operable pixels that are selectively operated with a variable opacity. A camera captures images of the face of a driver or other passenger and, based on the captured images, a controller operates the visor to automatically and selectively darken a limited portion thereof to block the sun or other illumination source from striking the eyes of the driver, while leaving the remainder of the visor transparent. The virtual visor system advantageously snaps projected eye positions on the visor to a grid, which helps to minimize rapid and distracting changes in the optical state of the visor.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2021Date of Patent: March 19, 2024Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Jason Zink, Ryan Todd
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Patent number: 11562578Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method for controlling an autonomous driving vehicle. The vehicle control method includes detecting an eye level of an occupant adjacent to the window through a first camera which captures an image of an inside of the vehicle, setting an area of the window corresponding to the eye level of the occupant to a first area and setting the other remaining area of the window to a second area, and adjusting light transmittance of the window such that light transmittance of the first area is lower than light transmittance of the second area.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2019Date of Patent: January 24, 2023Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Sungil Cho, Inyoung Hwang, Kyoungha Lee, Kangmin Kim
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Patent number: 11524557Abstract: An antiglare system and method and a vehicle comprising the antiglare system. The antiglare system comprises a light transmittance adjustment plate, which includes at least one light transmittance adjustment portion, which in turn includes at least one first light transmittance adjustment region. The antiglare method comprises: capturing, from one side of a light transmittance adjustment plate, an image in a direction facing the light transmittance adjustment plate; determining a bright region in the image, and acquiring a position of the bright region in the image; determining, according to the position of the bright region, a first light transmittance adjustment region in the light transmittance adjustment plate; and if a bright region is present, adjusting light transmittance of the first light transmittance adjustment region.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2019Date of Patent: December 13, 2022Assignee: BEIJING BOE TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CO., LTD.Inventors: Xitong Ma, Tianyue Zhao
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Patent number: 11299013Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for active vehicle cabin occupant protection system. The method includes detecting a vehicle cabin temperature using a cabin thermal sensor, engaging a vehicle fan and opening a vehicle outside air ventilation duct in response to the vehicle cabin temperature exceeding a first threshold temperature, and starting a vehicle engine and engaging a vehicle air conditioning system in response to the vehicle cabin temperature exceeding a second threshold temperature wherein the second threshold temperature is greater than the first threshold temperature.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2019Date of Patent: April 12, 2022Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Insu Chang, Edward R. Masters, Dooil Hwang, Zhe Li, Jeremie Dernotte, Mohammad Firouz
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Patent number: 11227565Abstract: The invention relates to a method for operating an interactive visibility screen on a transparent pane of a pane device, in particular in a motor vehicle. The visibility screen is generated by means of a display unit of the pane device on the pane by pixel-wise fade-in of opaque image points, wherein the image points form a coherent visibility screen area. In the method, an operational action by the user is first detected by means of a detection device, which comprises a selection of a setting range and a movement relative to the pane. Subsequently, an expansion of the visibility screen area at the setting range is set as a function of the detected movement by means of a control device.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2017Date of Patent: January 18, 2022Assignee: AUDI AGInventors: Joris Mertens, Georg Haslinger, Jacques Hélot, Markus Klug
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Patent number: 11124049Abstract: A withdrawal-type sun visor includes a housing received in a roof panel. The housing has a storage recess therein. The withdrawal-type sun visor also includes a sun visor assembly configured to be received in the housing and to be withdrawn along a windshield glass of a vehicle. The sun visor assembly includes a display unit having a display region and includes a discoloration unit configured to enclose at least a portion of the display unit. The transmissivity of the discoloration unit is adjustable.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2019Date of Patent: September 21, 2021Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION, Yong San Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jin Ho Hwang, Dae Ig Jung, Seung Hyeok Chang, Min Ho Cho, Hyung Jin Kim, Sang Hoon Lee
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Patent number: 11091010Abstract: A mirror unit includes a frame provided separately from or integrally with the one half body, a mirror and slide cover attached to the frame, a slide mechanism that allows slide cover to slide between an open position at which a mirror surface of the mirror is exposed and a closed position at which the slide covers the mirror surface of mirror, relative to the frame, and a position holding mechanism capable of holding slide cover via the slide mechanism at the closed and open position. W1, a distance between pair of resin springs in a natural state>W3, a distance between pair of main guide rails 41>W5, respective distances between the protrusion portions facing each other at the pair of main guide rails, and W3, the distance between pair of main guide rails 41>W4, a distance between the pair of auxiliary guide rails.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2018Date of Patent: August 17, 2021Assignee: KYOWA SANGYO CO., LTD.Inventor: Takashi Haraguchi
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Patent number: 10926859Abstract: Method, system and apparatus are provided for smart window activation to prevent laser disturbance. The apparatus may include a window formed of smart glass capable of being activated in discrete sections to be impenetrable to laser light and having a smart glass activation system. A sensor arrangement may detect laser light impacting on the window and may provide data as to the position of the impact on the window. A computer-implemented window protection system may receive input regarding detecting a laser beam impacting a window from the sensor arrangement, determine the position of the laser beam impact on the window and determine a section of the window in which the smart glass is to be activated, and control activation of the smart glass in the section of the window to make the section impenetrable to laser light by instructing the smart glass activation system.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2018Date of Patent: February 23, 2021Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Darren R. Beard, Matthew Fawcett, Perry Harwood, Sanaz Yeganefard
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Patent number: 10591722Abstract: A transflective optical plate including a polarization conversion unit, an optical film, and a transparent protective layer is provided. The polarization conversion unit is adapted to change a polarization state of a polarized image light and includes a combiner. The optical film is disposed on the combiner. The transparent protective layer is disposed on the optical film, and the optical film is located between the combiner and the transparent protective layer. A display system is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2017Date of Patent: March 17, 2020Assignee: Coretronic CorporationInventors: Chong-Yang Fang, Chi-Wen Chen
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Patent number: 10562378Abstract: A shading device for a vehicle, comprising a dimming glass plate capable of changing a light transmittance thereof, wherein the dimming glass plate is provided at a portion of a vehicular window glass to separate an interior of vehicular compartment from outside or provided at a portion of a surface of the vehicular window glass that faces inside of the vehicular compartment; a display apparatus formed of a light transmitting material and disposed at a surface of the dimming glass plate that faces inside of the vehicular compartment; an image pickup device to capture an area outside of a vehicle to generate image pickup data, wherein the area is at an opposite surface of a surface on which the display apparatus is provided; a data processing circuit to generate display image data based on the image pickup data; and a switch to change light transmittance of the dimming glass plate.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2017Date of Patent: February 18, 2020Assignee: Sakai Display Products CorporationInventor: Katsuhiko Kishimoto
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Patent number: 10477993Abstract: A mirror includes a glass layer having a front surface and a rear surface and a reflective layer disposed on the rear surface of the glass layer. The reflective layer includes a first opening exposing the rear surface inward of a first boundary. The mirror also includes a mounting structure for a lighting assembly affixed to the rear surface that includes a surface substantially enclosing a volume and a housing attached to the surface and disposed within the volume. The mirror also includes a light source affixed to a first surface of the housing. The mirror also includes a light guide affixed to a second surface of the housing by a section of compressible foam, the section of compressive foam having a first adhesive layer affixed to the housing and a second adhesive layer affixed to the light guide. A first end surface of the light guide is proximate to the light source.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2018Date of Patent: November 19, 2019Assignee: KOHLER CO.Inventor: Doug Diemel
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Patent number: 10399414Abstract: In a method for operating a dazzle protection system for a vehicle, an image of the head of a vehicle occupant is acquired via a video sensing device and is compared with a reaction pattern typical of dazzling.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2014Date of Patent: September 3, 2019Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Hoang Trinh
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Patent number: 10392129Abstract: An integrated aircraft lighting and display panel includes high-density arrays of micro-scale light-emitting diodes (LED) set into a flexible printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB and LED arrays may be set into structural layers corresponding to overhead panels, side panels, bin panels, divider panels, doorway panels, or other interior structural panels of the aircraft. The LED arrays may be activated by a controller to provide cabin lighting, indicate aircraft signage, display high-resolution image or video graphics, or any simultaneous combination of all three. The panel may have a translucent or transparent decorative outer skin which may mimic the outward appearance of wood, stone, bamboo, or other decorative materials while the integrated lighting and display panels are inactive. Highly reflective core materials, such as an aluminum core in a honeycomb pattern, may guide the luminous output of the LED arrays through the outer skin.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2018Date of Patent: August 27, 2019Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.Inventors: Eric Johannessen, Matthew Dunn, Alvin S. Bartolome, Arthur Loic Dibeton Tchakounte
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Patent number: 10227046Abstract: A sun visor assembly for a vehicle includes a front transparent glass substrate having first and second surfaces and a rear transparent glass substrate having third and fourth surfaces, with an electro-optic medium sandwiched between the second surface of the front glass substrate and the third surface of the rear glass substrate. A vanity mirror including a mirror reflector is established at one of (i) the first surface of the front glass substrate and (ii) the second surface of the front glass substrate. When not electrically powered, the electro-optic medium is substantially transparent, and when electrically powered, the electro-optic medium is darkened so as to have reduced light transmission. When the electro-optic medium behind the mirror reflector is darkened, the mirror reflector is usable as a vanity mirror by a user of the sun visor.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2015Date of Patent: March 12, 2019Assignee: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.Inventor: Hamid Habibi
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Patent number: 10195982Abstract: A device for assisting with driving an automotive vehicle, the vehicle being equipped with at least one illuminating device able to emit a beam for illuminating a road scene (SR) in front of the vehicle, the assisting device comprising a variable transmission screen that is intended to be placed between the road scene (SR) and a driver of the vehicle, the assisting device being configured to, when active, control a light emission of at least one light source of the illuminating device and a transmission coefficient of the variable transmission screen, in relation to each other, with a pulsed signal, characterized in that the assisting device is configured to detect a vehicle equipped with a device of the same type via inter-vehicle communication and to modify the pulsed signal so as to avoid antiphase and/or phase effects, when the device detects such a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2014Date of Patent: February 5, 2019Assignee: VALEO VISIONInventors: David Hue, Hafid El Idrissi, Etienne Monchy
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Patent number: 10183557Abstract: A dimmable visor is disclosed. In one embodiment, the visor includes a first clear sheet having a first surface and an electro-opaque sheet having a first surface and a second surface and having adjustably variable transparency. The first surface of the electro-opaque sheet is in contact with the first surface of the first clear sheet. The visor also includes a pair of transparent electrodes disposed on two opposite edges of the electro-opaque sheet, each of the transparent electrodes having an area smaller than the electro-opaque sheet. The visor also includes a second clear sheet having a first surface in contact with the second surface of the electro-opaque sheet. The visor also includes a suspension hinge attached to one edge of the first clear sheet and is configured to rotate about the suspension hinge. The electro-opaque sheet changes its transparency in response to electrical energy being applied to the electro-opaque sheet.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2016Date of Patent: January 22, 2019Assignee: FARADAY & FUTURE INC.Inventor: Charles Edward Spencer
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Patent number: 10186145Abstract: A remote control device with assured button functionality includes a case, at least one key located on the case, and at least one key circuit located under the at least one key. Each of the at least one keys corresponds to a compensation capacitance, which also connects to at least one key circuit. A capacitance is generated when a user presses the touch panel and the at least one key circuit is thereby unbalanced, to trigger the remote to generate command signal when the at least one key circuit is electrically connected to the at least one compensation capacitance through the capacitance.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2017Date of Patent: January 22, 2019Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventor: Lei Sun
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Patent number: 10036927Abstract: An automatic anti-glare device for vehicles includes: a transmissive liquid crystal panel disposed between a windshield of a vehicle and the head of an occupant; a sun detector that detects a position of the sun; an eyepoint detector that detects a position of the eyes of the occupant; and a controller that forms a light-shielding region in the transmissive liquid crystal panel based on a result of the detection of the sun detector and a result of the detection of the eyepoint detector. When the position of the sun on the transmissive liquid crystal panel moves in a range that does not depart from a stationary region virtually provided on the transmissive liquid crystal panel, the controller maintains the position of the light-shielding region.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2016Date of Patent: July 31, 2018Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Takahiro Iwata
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Patent number: 10018315Abstract: A light source assembly for a headlamp of a vehicle includes a light source, a lens group, a light adjusting device, and a fluorescent layer. The light source emits light. The lens group increases an incident angle of the light from the light source while the light adjusting device, comprising three different types of crystal, can change an outgoing direction of light from the lens group, thereby adjusting an intensity of the light through different portions of the light adjusting device. The fluorescent layer is triggered by the light and different fluorescent layers can be compensated for by the light adjusting device to form a final emitted white light.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventor: Yung-Jen Su
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Patent number: 9827835Abstract: A device for assisting in the driving of a motor vehicle, comprising a screen with variable transmission intended to be arranged between a road scene in front of the vehicle and a driver of the vehicle, the device comprising a number of sensors suitable for recovering data representative of the environment in which the vehicle is located, the device being configured to drive a transmission coefficient of the screen with variable transmission, wherein the device is configured to take into account the data recovered by the sensors and to compute the transmission coefficient by combining the data.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2014Date of Patent: November 28, 2017Assignee: Valeo VisionInventors: Hafid El Idrissi, Kostadin Beev, David Hue, Steed Gratien, Marc Rocklinger
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Patent number: 9690031Abstract: A mood lamp may include a light source disposed at one side, a light guide panel transmitting and guiding light emitted from the light source to a front side, and a surface member disposed over a front surface of the light guide panel and having apertures for passing the light transmitted and guided by the light guide panel to the front side. The light guide panel may include optic protrusions formed on a rear surface of the light guide panel at locations corresponding to the apertures of the surface member and reflecting the light traveling through the light guide panel to the apertures. The light reflected by the optic protrusions is transmitted through the apertures of the surface member.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2015Date of Patent: June 27, 2017Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Byeong Ho Jeong
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Patent number: 9623728Abstract: A device for assisting with driving an automotive vehicle comprising a variable transmission screen intended to be placed between a road scene (SR) and a driver of the vehicle, the assisting device being configured to, when active, control a transmission coefficient of the variable transmission screen. The device comprises a glare sensor and is furthermore configured to modify the coefficient of transparency of the variable transmission screen depending on the glare measured by the glare sensor. In addition, a method for assisting with driving the automotive vehicle is included.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2014Date of Patent: April 18, 2017Assignee: Valeo VisionInventors: Benoist Fleury, David Hue, Kostadin Beev
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Patent number: 9505290Abstract: A method for assisting the daytime driving of a motor vehicle, including the steps of: placing at least one variable-transmission screen between the driver of the motor vehicle and the road scene in front of the vehicle, measuring, by means of at least one sensor, the brightness of the road scene in front of the vehicle, and processing the brightness measurement signal to convert it into a signal for controlling the coefficient of transmission of the variable-transmission screen. In one embodiment, the method includes the further step of transmitting the control signal by remote control waves to a receiver fitted to the variable-transmission screen for modulating the coefficient of transmission of the variable-transmission screen as a function of the brightness measured by the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2013Date of Patent: November 29, 2016Assignee: Valeo VisionInventor: Benoist Fleury
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Patent number: 9457711Abstract: A light source unit for a vehicle includes a light source body, a light guide member that guides and exits the light from the light source body toward a portion of the vehicle to be illuminated, and a cover member housing the light source body and the light guide member. The cover member has an elongated light exit portion through which light from the light guide member is exited to the portion to be illuminated. The light exit portion includes a first light exit portion and at least two second light exit portions arranged along a longitudinal direction of the light exit portion to sandwich the second light exit portion therebetween. Light from the light guide member directly reaches the portion to be illuminated via the first light exit portion and light from the light guide member indirectly reaches the portion to be illuminated via the second light exit portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2012Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Nobuki Hayashi
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Patent number: 9434240Abstract: A vehicle UV sun visor that includes a support frame that is configured to be attached to an interior surface of a roof of a vehicle as well as a first support rod and a second support rod, each of which is pivotally affixed to the support frame. Also included is a double visor assembly having a first panel assembly and a receiver panel assembly that are pivotally attached to the support frame. The support frame has a headliner face along an upper planar surface and a mounting face along a lower planar surface. The headliner face is configured to be affixed to the interior surface of a vehicle roof. A first support pivot pivotally affixes the first support rod to the support frame. A second support pivot pivotally affixes the second support rod to the support frame. Beneficially the support rods are “L” shaped.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2015Date of Patent: September 6, 2016Inventor: Veronica P. De Luz
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Patent number: 9302568Abstract: A light filtering transparent or semitransparent visor intended to prevent flash blindness and other hazards associated with the adverse affects associated with bright lights impacting the eyesight of occupants of a vehicle. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the visor comprises a larger, tinted body surrounding a smaller, much more heavily tinted body intended to filter the bright rays of sun to enable safe viewing of the sun through the filter. The entire apparatus is designed to be repositioned directly in the line of sight between the viewer and the sun in the preferred embodiment of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2014Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: Grey Matter Fusion, Inc.Inventor: Philos Kim
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Patent number: 9193298Abstract: A vehicle sun visor system and method for powering the vehicle sun visor are provided herein, and include a generator configured to produce a first current via kinetic motion. A converter is electrically coupled to the generator and configured to convert the first current into a second current. An energy storing device is electrically coupled to the converter and configured to store an electrical charge. An illumination source is electrically coupled to the energy storing device and configured to operate between an ON and an OFF state, wherein during the ON state, the electrical charge stored in the energy storing device is discharged to supply electrical power to the illumination source.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2013Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: David R. Huelke, Adam W. Hellar, Matthew Majkowski
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Patent number: 9186963Abstract: A method of reducing glare may include sensing a first light source with a second vehicle, and sensing a second light source with a first vehicle and oscillating a first light source ICF between a substantially opaque state and a substantially clear state on a first schedule. A second windscreen ICF may be oscillating between the substantially opaque state and the substantially clear state on a second schedule different from the first schedule. A position of the light source may be sensed and an eye position of the occupant estimated. An intersecting region of the selectively-darkenable ICF, which is located substantially along a line from the position of the light source to the eye position, is calculated. The intersecting region of the ICF is darkened, such that a reduced amount of light from the light source passes through the intersecting region.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2014Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Asim Tewari, Rohit Gupta, Chandra S. Namuduri
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Patent number: 9150083Abstract: A method for controlling an intensity of light entering a vehicle is provided. The method includes determining an operational status of a display device in the path of the light entering the vehicle, and receiving, by a computing device, an intensity of light present in the vehicle using at least one light sensor. The method also includes comparing the intensity of light with a predefined intensity threshold, and activating a light damping mechanism when the measured light intensity exceeds the predefined intensity threshold and when the operational status of the display device is active, wherein the light damping mechanism facilitates at least one of reducing the intensity of light interacting with the display device and reducing light from the display device reflecting off a window.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2013Date of Patent: October 6, 2015Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Michael Andrew Pilgrim, Brent Nathaniel Gaertner, Wesley Wonchul Kim
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Patent number: 9110473Abstract: A sun visor control apparatus is provided that includes: at least one sun visor, which is provided in a vehicle to block light from being incident therein; a sun visor driver, which drives the at least one sun visor; and at least one camera, which captures an image of the outside of the vehicle. A controller detects a shadow of the vehicle from the image of the outside of the vehicle, calculates a direction of the shadow and a length of the shadow, and controls the sun visor driver so as to block the incident light in consideration of the direction of the shadow and the length of the shadow.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2013Date of Patent: August 18, 2015Assignee: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANYInventors: Sung Un Kim, Gideok Kwon
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Publication number: 20150097389Abstract: A sunscreen system includes a control unit and a sunscreen having a first nonplanar glass layer and a nonplanar display layer having a first side and an opposite second side. The first side is adhered to the glass layer. The display layer includes multiple display subareas covering the overall surface of the display layer. Each separate display subarea may be controlled by the control unit to change the subarea's transmittance. A nonplanar design allows integration in a vehicle body and multiple display subareas allows partial area-wise blocking of light. All electronic components can be provided in or adjacent to the sunscreen or be arranged at another location in the vehicle, leading to a flexible design which allows a larger area panoramic roof due to reduction of mechanical components in the roof structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2014Publication date: April 9, 2015Inventors: Joakim DRYSELIUS, Daniel OLSSON
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Patent number: 8960761Abstract: A vehicle and a window visor assembly for the vehicle are disclosed. The window visor assembly includes a visor adapted to be coupled to the vehicle. The visor is rotatable between a retracted position and an extended position. The visor includes a first state changing layer and a second state changing layer spaced from each other. The first state changing layer is in a first mode when the first state changing layer is energized to thereby change the visibility through the visor. The second state changing layer is in a second mode when the second state changing layer is energized to thereby change the visibility through the visor differently from the first state changing layer when energized.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Austin Lawrence Newman
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Patent number: 8899656Abstract: This invention uses fixed number of randomly generated pulses to turn on/off headlamp(s) and viewing screen simultaneously in each base time interval. The percentage of total “on” time during each base interval, the duty cycle, is low. This method dims the oncoming headlights by at least a half without dimming any objects illuminated by own vehicle's headlights. The system is independent and anonymous, meaning in order to make the system work, there is no need for other vehicles to install anything nor will drivers of other vehicles notice anything different in the vehicle with such system installed.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2013Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Inventor: Sam Mingsan Chen
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Patent number: 8888304Abstract: New optic control systems are provided that manage factors impacting image quality and environmental perception. In some aspects of the invention, a regionally shadable semi-transparent matrix and actuating system is provided, which limits problematic glare for observation points. In additional aspects, light that would exceed a threshold limit of luminance at such observation points is shaded or intercepted, leading to an enhanced image of environmental objects. In other aspects, the system reduces such shading or interception and augments regions of the matrix based on potential dangers or to relay other environmental information.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Inventor: Christopher V. Beckman
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Publication number: 20140239664Abstract: A vehicle and a window visor assembly for the vehicle are disclosed. The window visor assembly includes a visor adapted to be coupled to the vehicle. The visor is rotatable between a retracted position and an extended position. The visor includes a first state changing layer and a second state changing layer spaced from each other. The first state changing layer is in a first mode when the first state changing layer is energized to thereby change the visibility through the visor. The second state changing layer is in a second mode when the second state changing layer is energized to thereby change the visibility through the visor differently from the first state changing layer when energized.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2013Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: Austin Lawrence Newman
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Publication number: 20140167442Abstract: A visor device includes an optically transparent support frame and a visor arrangement. The visor arrangement has a plurality of light shading portions and a plurality of light transmitting portions alternating with the light shading portions. The light shading portions is capable of reducing glare from sunlight. The light transmitting portions is capable of enabling ambient light penetrating therethrough. The light shading portions of the visor arrangement is capable of substantially eliminating the glare from sunlight transmitted through the support frame to a user in the vehicle whereas the user is able to see through the support frame at the light transmitting portions to improve vision of the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2012Publication date: June 19, 2014Inventor: Tsz Leung CHEW
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Patent number: 8746775Abstract: An automotive supplementary sun visor to shield a windshield portion around a rearview mirror between the right and left sun visors using a slit from an upper side edge of the shade plate body toward a center portion and structuring the shade plate body detachable in an attaching support shaft portion of a rearview mirror by the slit and its own flexibility. The present invention does not require a design change to an existing sun visor or rearview mirror within a passenger room or a specification change of a body construction of a motor vehicle, can be attached to a support shaft portion of the existing rearview mirror by utilizing the flexibility of the shade plate itself, and securely dims or blocks sunlight from a periphery of the rearview mirror not otherwise accounted for by existing sun visors.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Inventor: Yoshikazu Chino
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Patent number: 8708395Abstract: An auxiliary sun flap for a conventional vehicle sun visor that has a shade panel configured to fold within the perimeter of a conventional vehicle sun visor where the visor has an edge and the shade panel is connected to the edge of the visor and the shad panel has a hinge connected to one end of the shade panel and a connector that connects to the sun visor edge such that the shade panel folds against the conventional vehicle sun visor during periods of non-use and folds outward to extend the effective shade area of the vehicle sun visor.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Inventor: Sun Y. Kim
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Patent number: 8711307Abstract: A heat shield comprising a first light-reflective layer, having a reflectance peak both in a wavelength range of from 400 nm to less than 850 nm and in a wavelength range of from more than 850 nm to 1300 nm and satisfying C>A>B, is disclosed. “A” means the maximum reflectance in the wavelength range of from 400 nm to less than 850 nm; “B” means the reflectance at a wavelength of 850 nm; “C” means the maximum reflectance in the wavelength range of from more than 850 nm to 1300 nm; and “B” is equal to or less than 50%.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2011Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventors: Kazuhiro Oki, Wataru Majima, Mitsuyoshi Ichihashi, Yuichi Shirasaki
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Patent number: 8657357Abstract: A visor has a curvilinear section which is pivotally mounted to the header rail of a vehicle and, when in a stored position, conforms closely to the geometry of the header rail. It is mounted to allow the visor to pivot away from the windshield toward the driver or passenger, lowering the visor to provide sun-blocking protection. It can be rotated further until it extends through the open area of the roof, when the roof is removed, to provide sun-blocking above the header rail. The curvilinear visor body may also include a glare shield which can be extended from the lower edge of the visor to provide additional sun-blocking protection.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2012Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Marcus Automotive, LLCInventors: Brian R. Dexter, Jonathan P. Marcus
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Patent number: 8485584Abstract: A method and device for blocking sun rays from shining through the side window of a vehicle. Custom sized sun shade panels are cut. A first sun shade panel is inserted between the window and window seal of the side window of a vehicle. Then at least one other sun shade panel is inserted adjacent to the first sun shade panel to form a stack of sun shade panels. The number of sun shade panels in the stack may be adjusted to achieve the desired blockage of sun rays from entering the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2012Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Inventor: Michael Bills
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Publication number: 20130161971Abstract: An autodimming window assembly for a vehicle such as an aircraft including a UI devoid of movable elements and integrated with a dust cover of the window assembly. Dust cover is optionally includes a lightguide configured to deliver light from a light source associated with the assembly and indicia representing an operational characteristic of the UI and articulated to the dust cover.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2012Publication date: June 27, 2013Applicant: GENTEX CORPORATIONInventor: GENTEX CORPORATION
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Patent number: 8440287Abstract: A vehicle interior material of the present invention is a vehicle interior material that is disposed in a lower side of windshield glass inside a compartment and includes a grain structure including a concavity and a convexity on the upper face thereof, the vehicle interior material including at the convexity of the grain structure, a diffuse reflection face that is inclined with respect to a general upper face of the grain structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., LtdInventors: Toshimitsu Shimizu, Seiji Yoshida
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Publication number: 20130033059Abstract: The invention involves an improved auxiliary sun visor for vehicles, for example, automobiles. It comprises a transparent and colored light-shielding plate inserted into sun visor to dim and reduce sunlight. The inside shielding plate can be flexibly pulled out for use and pushed back in when not being used. The built-in shielding plate looks more aesthetically appealing compared to the original attached style.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Inventor: Allen C. Liu
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Publication number: 20130001976Abstract: A visor has a curvilinear section which is pivotally mounted to the header rail of a vehicle and, when in a stored position, conforms closely to the geometry of the header rail. It is mounted to allow the visor to pivot away from the windshield toward the driver or passenger, lowering the visor to provide sun-blocking protection. It can be rotated further until it extends through the open area of the roof, when the roof is removed, to provide sun-blocking above the header rail. The curvilinear visor body may also include a glare shield which can be extended from the lower edge of the visor to provide additional sun-blocking protection.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2012Publication date: January 3, 2013Inventors: Brian R. Dexter, Jonathan P. Marcus
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Patent number: 8336943Abstract: A sun visor, comprising at least one mirror surface integrated in the sun visor body is proposed, wherein the sun visor body comprises a receiver for at least one mirror. The mirror comprises a support made of plastic glass, wherein guide elements for means for concealing the at least one mirror in the sun visor body are integrally molded at said support.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2009Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: SMR Patents S.a.r.l.Inventors: Ulrich Bruhnke, Kurt Wilfinger
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Publication number: 20120313396Abstract: An automotive supplementary sun visor to shield a windshield portion around a rearview mirror between the right and left sun visors using a slit from an upper side edge of the shade plate body toward a center portion and structuring the shade plate body detachable in an attaching support shaft portion of a rearview mirror by the slit and its own flexibility. The present invention does not require a design change to an existing sun visor or rearview mirror within a passenger room or a specification change of a body construction of a motor vehicle, can be attached to a support shaft portion of the existing rearview mirror by utilizing the flexibility of the shade plate itself, and securely dims or blocks sunlight from a periphery of the rearview mirror not otherwise accounted for by existing sun visors.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2011Publication date: December 13, 2012Inventor: Yoshikazu Chino
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Publication number: 20120303214Abstract: A vehicle glare reducing system comprising detecting when an oncoming vehicle with lit headlights is approaching the driver and operating a glare reducing means attached to the driver's side of a vehicle's windshield to block the glare, and detecting when no oncoming vehicle with lit headlights is approaching the driver and operating the glare reducing means to allow the driver to see through the glare reducing means, with part of an inside edge of the glare reducing means substantially vertically aligned with substantially the horizontal center of the vehicle's steering wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2012Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventor: Seymour C. Yuter