Retractable Vehicle Mirror Patents (Class 359/841)
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Patent number: 6685348Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror system for a vehicle comprises an exterior mirror assembly having a fixed portion and a movable portion. The fixed portion is configured to mount to a side of the vehicle. The movable portion includes a reflective element and is movable about the fixed portion between a normal viewing position where the movable portion is extended outwardly from the vehicle and a folded position where the movable portion is folded toward the side of the vehicle. The exterior mirror assembly includes at least one light assembly projecting a light pattern from the exterior mirror assembly. A proximity detector is preferably provided that actuates a powerfold mechanism when the proximity detector detects an object so as to move the movable portion from the normal viewing position to the folded position.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Michiel P. van de Ven, Peter J. Whitehead, Rick Mousseau, Niall R. Lynam
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Patent number: 6682200Abstract: A pivot portion is press-fitted to the inside hollow portion of a pivot receiver, thereby the pivot receiver wraps the pivot portion from outside. A spring member is also fitted to the outside on one end side of the pivot receiver, thereby the pivot receiver fastens the pivot portion from outside. As a result, the outer face of the pivot portion and the inner face of the hollow portion of the pivot receiver are abutted on each other securely all the time, thereby the mirror unit is held always stably with respect to the holding member. As a result, the mirror face can be held reliably at a predetermined tilted position all the time.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Ichikoh Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Osamu Tsuyama, Akito Kikuchi
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Patent number: 6679610Abstract: An electrically powered retractable door mirror in which a horizontal worm gear can rotate securely and smoothly by making the horizontal worm gear less affected by building differences between a frame body and a motor installation component is provided. On the under surface of an outer plate 50, horizontal worm gear bearings 76, 78 are provided. In the horizontal worm gear bearings 76, 78, a notch 86 is formed. By fitting shank portions 36a, 36b of the horizontal worm gear 36 through the notch 86, by deflecting the horizontal worm gear bearings 76, 78, into a space inside the bearing 84 of the horizontal worm gear bearings 76, 78, the horizontal worm gear 36 is fixed on the horizontal worm gear bearings 76, 78. At the bottom inside the box 28, flexure control portions 80, 82 are provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Assignee: Murakami CorporationInventor: Kazunari Yamauchi
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Patent number: 6672726Abstract: An extending and rotating rearview mirror assembly for use on an automotive vehicle includes a base member (34) for mounting the mirror assembly to the vehicle. An elongated support arm (38) is pivotally mounted to the base member for pivoting the mirror assembly between an operative position and a folded position. The support arm supports a mirror housing (30) having a glass mirror pane (24) therein for providing a rearward reflective view from the vehicle. A coupling assembly (20) interconnects the mirror housing and support arm for sliding mirror housing in a generally horizontal direction with respect to the base member and for rotating the mirror housing with respect to the base member.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventors: Ian Boddy, Keith D. Foote
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Publication number: 20030223134Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2003Publication date: December 4, 2003Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
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Publication number: 20030223133Abstract: There is disclosed a method and apparatus for deploying a mirror assembly from a recessed position that includes rotating the mirror assembly in a first direction about a first axis, the mirror assembly coupled proximate the first axis to at least one lifting arm and rotating each lifting arm in a second direction about a second axis such that the mirror assembly moves to an operational position. The first direction may be opposite from the second direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2002Publication date: December 4, 2003Applicant: RAYTHEON COMPANYInventors: Aaron T. Raines, Todd A. Mendez
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Patent number: 6655807Abstract: An extensible outside rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a spring-clamped slide mechanism that ensures a zero clearance fit between sliding components to avoid vibration. Bearing members between the sliding components reduce friction and provide a consistent reaction force to ensure smooth operation of an actuator mechanism which extends or retracts the mirror assembly along a support arm. The slide mechanism includes V-shaped guiderails vertically aligned with opposing V-shaped guiderails on the mounting bracket assembly. Rod-like bearing means are interposed between the opposing guiderail pairs. A cantilever clamp jaw with spring means biases one guiderail toward the other with a high spring force which provides superior rigidity and thus enhanced mirror image clarity.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2002Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Delbar Products, Inc.Inventors: John S. McPherson, Thomas Culp, Cory Brechbill, Keith Fitzgerald
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Patent number: 6648480Abstract: An external rearview mirror of an automotive vehicle has a mirror plate set including a mirror plate and a rear cover, a moving mechanism for the mirror plate set and including a bearing/electric motor set, a housing in which the mirror plate set and the bearing/motor set are accommodated, a base with which the housing is connected in an articulated manner, the base being fixable to a side of a vehicle, the mirror plate set and the bearing/motor set being directly fixed with one another with the use of parts including one part provided in the mirror plate set and another part provided in the bearing/engine set and connectable with the one part.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2002Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: Metagal Industria E Comercio Ltda.Inventor: Pedro Takashi Miyabukuro
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Patent number: 6644820Abstract: A temperature stabilized optical mirror is disclosed. A rotatable mirror for switching optical light signals between optical fibers is mounted on a support structure. One or more PTC (Positional Temperature Coefficient) resistors are mounted to the support structure to provide heat to the combination support structure and mirror so as to maintain the mirror and support structure above a lower limit of a selected temperature range. The PTC resistor is selected to have a switching temperature substantially equal to the lower limit of the select temperature range.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: John W. Orcutt
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Patent number: 6641271Abstract: A sideview mirror for a vehicle. A pivot assembly is provided between the mirror head and the mounting bracket. The pivot assembly allows the mirror head to pivotally rotate with respect to the mounting bracket. A load support structure provides a design to provide improved resistance to cantilever forces imposed on the mirror.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty LtdInventor: Andrew John Churchett
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Patent number: 6637898Abstract: A manually foldable door mirror has a stand, a bracket which is supported by the stand, and a mirror portion which is fixed to the bracket. A first surface is formed on the stand. A support shaft extends from the stand. A first projection and a second projection are located on the first surface at a predetermined interval with respect to an axis of the support shaft. A second surface is formed on the bracket. A first recess and a second recess are located on the second surface at a predetermined interval with respect to the axis of the support shaft. When the first projection fits in the first recess and the second projection faces to the second recess, the mirror portion is held at the normal position. When the second projection fits in the first recess and the first projection faces to the second recess, the mirror portion is held at the folded position. A circumferential width of the second recess is greater than those of the first and second projections. A spring urges the bracket to the stand.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki SeisakushoInventors: Yasunori Hattori, Bunji Inagaki
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Patent number: 6626548Abstract: A stabilization device for a rear-view mirror of a motor vehicle includes a mirror set (1) having a sleeve (41) incorporated in a support structure (20) of the mirror set (1) and articulated in a pivot post (60) of a base member (70). The device proportions and determines the stabilization of the mirror set through an axially squeezing “F’ force to the pivot post (60) of the mirror set (1). The sleeve has a first indented surface (42) and a second indented surface (43) in the base (70) that is adjacent to the first indented surface (42). The first and second indented surfaces (42, 43) have corresponding profiles to engage one in the other. An axial compression spring (44) disposed about the pivot post (60) presses the sleeve (41) to couple the surface (42) of the mirror set (1) in the indented surface (43) of the base (70). A reaction washer (45), fixed around the pivot post (60), presses against the spring (44). The pivot post (60) has an intermediary radial hole (62).Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: Metagal Industria e Comercio Ltda.Inventor: Leônidas Venâncio de Melo Neto
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Patent number: 6616286Abstract: In a vehicle door mirror device, a bracket is divided into a frame and a case member. Thus, the frame and the like for a vehicle right side and for a vehicle left side can both hold a mirror at a vehicle rear side thereof. A mounting hole and a supporting hole of a case member are provided to be symmetrical with respect to a vertical plane which passes through a widthwise direction center of the case member. Thus, even if a common case member is used both for a vehicle right side and for a vehicle left side by left and right sides of the case member being reversed, the mounting hole of the case member can be mounted to the frame and the like for the vehicle right side and the vehicle left side.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2002Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai-Rika-Denki-SeisakushoInventors: Kenichi Hayashi, Junichi Nakaho, Morihiko Ogasawara, Takashi Yamada
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Patent number: 6614579Abstract: According to one embodiment, a proximity switch comprises a radiation emitter for emitting radiation, at least one photosensor for detecting light levels near the radiation emitter, and an electronic circuit for energizing the radiation emitter and for receiving and processing signals from the photosensor so as to perform a specified function upon detecting an object that causes the radiation emitted from the radiation emitter to be reflected back to the photosensor. According to another embodiment, a rearview assembly for a vehicle comprises a transparent housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: John K. Roberts, Jeremy A. Fogg, Frederick T. Bauer
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Patent number: 6609800Abstract: A vehicle door mirror having a housing. The housing connects to a vehicle door via a stem. An intermediate member is inserted between the housing and the vehicle door to effect relatively smooth abutment between the intermediate member and each of the housing and the vehicle door. The cylindrical stem extends from the housing through the intermediate member and through the vehicle door. The stem includes primary engagement members to engage with complementary engagement members formed in a mounting hole of the door. The engagement members prevent removal from the mounting hole when the stem is in a predetermined orientation. A spring is compressed between the housing and the stem to cause retraction of the stem inward of the housing. Such inward movement urges the primary engagement members into engagement with the complementary engagement members.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems UK LimitedInventors: Andrew J. Assinder, Graham Rehill
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Patent number: 6598983Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly includes a support structure fixedly mounted to the exterior side of the motor vehicle. A mounting structure comprising a generally U-shaped member having a bight portion and a pair of leg portions defining spaced apart and parallel tubular members is mounted to the support structure for angular movement about a generally vertically extending axis with respect to the vehicle. A mirror housing is slidably mounted to the mounting structure and includes a pair of openings for slidably receiving the tubular members therein. A mirror is mounted to the mirror housing. A clamp is secured to the mirror housing and has a removable clamp-associated insert providing a mounting structure engaging surface for engaging the mounting structure in tightly fit relation so that the mirror housing can be manually repositioned in a lateral direction towards or away from the vehicle through an infinite range of positions.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1998Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Magna Mirror Systems Inc.Inventor: Ian Boddy
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Patent number: 6592231Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
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Publication number: 20030117729Abstract: A first power mechanism (20) is provided in association with a fixed support (18) and with a swingable structure (16) and pivots the swingable structure (16) relative to the fixed support (18) between an extended position and a folded position adjacent the vehicle. A second power mechanism (24) is operatively associated with a swingable structure (16) and a mirror housing (12) to move the mirror housing (12) between inner and outer extended positions. A third power mechanism (28) moves the mirror unit (14) into a desired adjusted position about horizontal and vertical axes. An electronic control controls the operation of the first power mechanism (20) and the second power mechanism (24) and the third power mechanism (28) to control the powered pivoting of swingable structure (16) and to control the generally horizontal movement of mirror housing (12) to various positions located between inner and outer limiting positions and to adjust the mirror about vertical and horizontal axes.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2003Publication date: June 26, 2003Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Ian Boddy
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Publication number: 20030117732Abstract: A mirror mounting apparatus for a mirror glass is provided. According to an aspect of the invention, a mounting rod having a bore and an outlet and affixable to a vehicle is also provided. The mirror mounting apparatus includes a mirror housing assembly with a base member for mounting to the mounting rod. The base member has an opening to deliver a wire from the outlet into the mirror housing assembly. A method for assembling the mirror mounting apparatus is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2001Publication date: June 26, 2003Applicant: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC.Inventor: Alexander Stenzel
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Patent number: 6582087Abstract: An extendable exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a mounting bracket, a mirror subassembly, and a support which is supported by the mounting bracket. The mirror subassembly is supported by the support and is mounted for selective movement along the support arm to one of a plurality of viewing positions. The mirror subassembly includes a housing, a reflective element, and an actuator which supports the reflective element on a forward facing wall of the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a clamping assembly which provides a force to urge frictional engagement between the housing and the support to limit movement of the mirror subassembly along the support. In preferred form, the support extends into the housing and frictionally engages an exterior surface of the forward facing wall.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2002Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Peter J. Whitehead, Steven G. Hoek, Michiel P. van de Ven
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Patent number: 6578973Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror for motor vehicles has a mirror base and a mirror head connected to the mirror base. The mirror head is pivotable about a first pivot axis relative to the mirror base from a position of use into a parking position. A securing device exerting a securing force onto the mirror head at least in the parking position is provided. A tension spring exerting a spring force onto the mirror head is also provided, wherein the securing force counteracts the spring force. A cam disc is pivotably supported on the mirror base about a second pivot axis, wherein the mirror head has a support and wherein the tension spring has a first end connected to the cam disc and a second end connected to the support.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2001Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Assignee: Reitter & Schafenacker GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Robert Apfelbeck
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Publication number: 20030107826Abstract: A mirror system for improving a motorist's field of vision, and comprising at least one mirror having a convex reflecting surface, and a housing capable of being mounted beneath an exterior surface of a vehicle for accommodating therein the at least one mirror when not in use. A mechanism within the housing elevates the at least one mirror out of the housing through an opening in the exterior surface of the vehicle and rotates the at least one mirror after its elevation through the opening into a line of sight of the motorist thus allowing a cross-section of the opening to have a smaller area than a cross-section of the at least one mirror. After use, the mechanism retracts the mirror(s) into the housing, preferably automatically under control of a controller.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2001Publication date: June 12, 2003Applicant: PROLOG LTD.Inventors: Moshe Shafrir, Tal Dai
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Patent number: 6565218Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror for vehicles has a mirror base and a mirror head connected to the mirror base so as to be pivotable in and counter to a travel direction of the vehicle. At least one lifting device imparts to the mirror head a movement away from the mirror base when the mirror head is pivoted forwardly in the travel direction. The lifting device has a lifting element connected with the mirror head and a counter element connected with the mirror base.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Reitter & Schefenacker GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Alexander Pirner, Florin Secanu
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Publication number: 20030090819Abstract: 1.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2002Publication date: May 15, 2003Inventor: Bernd Petzold
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Patent number: 6561658Abstract: A rotation restricting structure of an automobile door mirror, in which a shaft is erected on the top surface of a projection portion of a mirror base, and in which a frame for supporting a mirror body is turnably fitted onto the shaft, wherein a stopper member for restricting a turning angle by engaging with the frame is provided between the frame and the shaft. The stopper member includes a projection, which is formed on the shaft base portion in such a way as to be integral therewith, and an angle adjusting plate provided separately from the projection. The adjusting plate having a thickness corresponding to a folding angle of the door mirror is attached to each or one of both the opposite side surfaces of the projection. Thus, even when the folding angle of the mirror body is changed, the frame and the shaft can be used in common among the door mirrors. Moreover, the strength of the stopper can be increased.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Murakami CorporationInventor: Toshihiro Mochizuki
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Publication number: 20030086187Abstract: A stabilization device for a rear-view mirror of a motor vehicle includes a mirror set (1) having a sleeve (41) incorporated in a support structure (20) of the mirror set (1) and articulated in a pivot post (60) of a base member (70). The device proportions and determines the stabilization of the mirror set through an axially squeezing “F’ force to the pivot post (60) of the mirror set (1). The sleeve has a first indented surface (42) and a second indented surface (43) in the base (70) that is adjacent to the first indented surface (42). The first and second indented surfaces (42, 43) have corresponding profiles to engage one in the other. An axial compression spring (44) disposed about the pivot post (60) presses the sleeve (41) to couple the surface (42) of the mirror set (1) in the indented surface (43) of the base (70). A reaction washer (45), fixed around the pivot post (60), presses against the spring (44). The pivot post (60) has an intermediary radial hole (62).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2001Publication date: May 8, 2003Inventor: Leonidas Venancio de Melo Neto
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Patent number: 6554436Abstract: A horn shaped rearview mirror assembly for vehicles is disclosed including a support structure for mounting the mirror assembly to the vehicle, and a support arm including a carrier structure having a vehicle end and a free end, the vehicle end connected to the support structure. The support arm also includes a molded component secured to the carrier structure, the molded component including a mirror housing. A main rearview mirror is affixed to the mirror housing for providing the driver a rearview of the vehicle, and a single supplemental mirror is affixed to the mirror housing above the main mirror for providing the driver a view of at least two dead zones disposed about the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1999Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Lang-Mekra North America, LLCInventors: Heinrich Lang, Albrecht Popp, Jürgen Pfanz
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Patent number: 6550923Abstract: A mirror surface angle adjusting device is provided which can be used at both left and right outer mirror devices of a vehicle. At a mirror driving unit, positional relationships between respective points (fulcrum of swinging A1 and A2, first adjusting points B1 and B2, second adjusting points C1 and C2, first mounting points D1 and D2, second mounting points E1 and E2, and third mounting points F1 and F2) are set such that the points have line symmetry with respect to 45° direction reference lines P1, P2. Accordingly, from a functional standpoint as well, there are no obstacles at a time of mounting, and as a result, a same type of mirror driving unit can be used at both a left door mirror device and a right door mirror device.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2001Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai-Rika-Denki-SeisakushoInventors: Masato Sakamoto, Yoshio Tsujiuchi, Morihiko Ogasawara
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Patent number: 6550924Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror for motor vehicles has a mirror base and a mirror head mounted thereon. A drive motor is provided to move the mirror head from a position of use into a parking position. The drive motor is connected to the mirror base by being snapped into place on the mirror base in a direction of insertion; preferably a locking plug-in connection is used for this purpose. The plug-in connection has receptacles on the mirror base and counter members on the motor that are received in the receptacles, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2001Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Assignee: Reitter & Schefenacker GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Vasile Romas
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Patent number: 6543902Abstract: The invention relates to an outside rearview mirror for a motor vehicle. Said rearview mirror comprises a mirror base, to be attached to the motor vehicle; a mirror head, which carries a mirror glass. The invention also relates to a self-blocking drive, arranged in a multipart drive housing, with an electric motor, whose output shaft is in engagement in gear with a reduction gear and/or can be folded and moved back out of the service position (F to P) about a swivel axis and hinged to the motor vehicle under the effect of an external force; and the invention relates to electromechanical or electronic means, detecting a relative movement. In a known servo drive of this type, time consuming installation steps must be performed. Therefore, the object of the present invention is to enable a relatively arbitrary number of ways to lead the motor connections out and to enable the motor to move out of a blocked position while the installation remains simple.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2002Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Bühler Motor GmbHInventor: Karl-Heinz Böhm
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Publication number: 20030058554Abstract: In a vehicle door mirror device, a bracket is divided into a frame and a case member. Thus, the frame and the like for a vehicle right side and for a vehicle left side can both hold a mirror at a vehicle rear side thereof. A mounting hole and a supporting hole of a case member are provided to be symmetrical with respect to a vertical plane which passes through a widthwise direction center of the case member. Thus, even if a common case member is used both for a vehicle right side and for a vehicle left side by left and right sides of the case member being reversed, the mounting hole of the case member can be mounted to the frame and the like for the vehicle right side and the vehicle left side.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2002Publication date: March 27, 2003Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI-RIKA-DENKI-SEISAKUSHOInventors: Kenichi Hayashi, Junichi Nakaho, Morihiko Ogasawara, Takashi Yamada
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Patent number: 6533424Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror for motor vehicles has a mirror base and a mirror head connected foldably to the mirror base. An electrical line extends through the mirror base to an electrical consumer arranged in the mirror head. The electrical line has a first line section arranged in the mirror base and a second line section arranged in the mirror head. A first plug part is connected to the first line section and a second plug part is connected to the second line section. The first and second plug parts detachably connect the first line section and the second line section to one another. The first and second plug parts become detached from one another when the mirror head is folded from the position of use into a folded position and are reconnected automatically when the mirror head is moved back into the position of use.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Reitter & Schefenacker GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Florin Secanu
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Patent number: 6533425Abstract: The invention relates to a retractable rear-view mirror for motor vehicles. Said rear-view mirror comprises a fixed base, a swiveling mirror unit and a rotation driving unit composed of a motor and a transmission. In order to minimize the friction losses while requiring a minimal space and providing a favorable assembling shape: a) the transmission of the rotation driving unit is a harmonic drive transmission having a central axis which is coaxial with the rotation axis of the mirror unit; b) said voltage wave transmission contains an eccentric means in its transmission casing, an elastic annular gear and two driven links which co-operate with said annular ring and have a different number of teeth; c) the eccentric means has a toothed work which engages the pinion gear of said motor; d) one driven link engages the base and the other driven link engages the mirror unit. The eccentric means is placed inside the elastic annular ring and the two driven links are placed outside of the elastic annular ring.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Magna Auteca AgInventors: Peter Schillegger, Bernhard Schadler
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Patent number: 6522451Abstract: This invention provides a plano-multiradius reflective element assembly suitable for use in an exterior sideview mirror assembly mounted to the side body of an automobile. The plano-multiradius reflective element assembly includes a plano reflective element which has a rearward field of view, when mounted in an exterior sideview mirror assembly mounted to the side body of an automobile, with unit magnification. The plano-multiradius reflective element assembly also includes an auxiliary reflective element including a multiradius portion with a rearward field of view. The plano reflective element provides a distortion-free rearward field of view and serves as the principal rearward-viewing portion of the plano-multiradius reflective element assembly. The multiradius portion provides a wide angle rearward field of view, and typically supplements the rearward field of view of the plano portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2000Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Niall R. Lynam
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Publication number: 20030026009Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly, especially suited for towing vehicles, includes a casing which houses a reflective element and a support supporting the casing and adapted to mount a vehicle. The mirror casing is adapted to pivot about the support between an inboard position and an extended outboard position thereby extending the field of view of the mirror assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2002Publication date: February 6, 2003Inventor: Wayne Vandenbrink
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Patent number: 6505943Abstract: This invention relates to a retraction and extension mechanism for extending or retracting a set of telescopic supports that connect a mirror head (10) to a mirror mounting bracket (11). It comprises a mirror mounting bracket (11) with a first tube (18) projecting from the mounting bracket (11). The mirror head (10) has a support (19) projecting from it that locates into and slides back and forth within the first tube (18). A roller (34) is mounting with respect to the support (19) and cable (29) is attached at one end with respect to the first tube (18) and a point between the roller (34) and the mirror head (10). It extends to and around the roller (34) and into the mirror head (10). The other end of the cable (29) extends into and is attached with respect to the first tube (18). A capstan (31) is located within the mirror head (10) and engages the cable (29).Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.Inventors: Mark Olijnyk, Gary Gordon Leslie Fimeri, Paul Van De Loo, Simon Orme
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Patent number: 6497491Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly for use on an automotive vehicle comprises a base member having a mounting plate for fixedly securing the mirror assembly to the side of the vehicle and a base plate extending outwardly therefrom. An elongated support arm has a first end pivotally coupled to the base plate and an opposite second end supporting a concave mirror housing. The mirror housing includes a peripheral rim defining an opening for receiving a reflective glass mirror pane. The mirror pane includes a directional indicator for providing directional signaling of the intended vehicle path. The mirror assembly further includes a puddle lamp for illuminating areas adjacent to the vehicle for entry and exit and for signaling rearward of the vehicle. Finally, the mirror assembly includes a display panel operatively connected to the vehicle for displaying information indicative of the vehicles operating conditions.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2001Date of Patent: December 24, 2002Assignee: Magna Mirror Systems Inc.Inventors: Ian Boddy, Kenneth Peterson
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Publication number: 20020186480Abstract: An angularly adjustable, vehicle side view mirror having a reflective mirror member mounted within a frame that is attached to the driver or passenger side of an automotive-type vehicle. The frame has an outer edge member having a series of horizontally spaced apart markings that are visible to the driver within the vehicle. The mirror has an outer edge that is closely adjacent to the frame outer edge member and can be pivoted into visual alignment with anyone of the frame member markings. The alignment of the mirror edge with a pre-selected frame member marking positions the mirror for reflecting either a blind spot side area or an area closer to the vehicle side. The marks also guide the driver in setting the mirror to pre-selected angles whenever the particular pre-set angle has been changed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2001Publication date: December 12, 2002Inventor: Raymond A. Jacobs
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Publication number: 20020181129Abstract: A mirror assembly has a pair of telescoping tubular supports extending between a support base and a mirror head to provide adjustment of the mirror head toward and away from the support base. Friction shoes within the tubular supports releasably hold such supports against unintentional telescoping movement. Cooperating stops on the telescoping supports limit outward movement of the mirror head and prevent complete separation of the telescoping supports. The tubular supports are hingedly attached to the support base for rotation about a vertical axis, and cooperating detents and spring elements on the supports and support base releasably hold the supports against rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2002Publication date: December 5, 2002Inventors: Paul Home, Paul R. Henion, Peter Robert Rothe, David Henderson Woollard, Barry Whitford, Trevor Fimeri, Simon Orme
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Patent number: 6481858Abstract: In a door mirror assembly for a vehicle, a case is supported at a door mirror stay provided at a vehicle door and mounted to a door mirror visor, whereby the door mirror visor is disposed above the door mirror stay. An overlap portion provided at the case and an overlap portion provided at an opening of the door mirror visor are overlapped one above the other and mounted, and a gap between the opening of the door mirror visor and the lower part of the case is thus stopped. Therefore, generation of wind noises caused by wind entering through the gap between the opening of the door mirror visor and the lower part of the case while a vehicle is in motion can be prevented.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai-Rika-Denki-SeisakushoInventors: Bunji Inagaki, Yoshio Tsujiuchi
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Publication number: 20020163743Abstract: A rear view mirror assembly for commercial vehicles comprises a tubular support structure having a first end fixable to a commercial vehicle and a second end extending from the commercial vehicle, and a support arm including a molded part and at least one core element. The molded part encapsulates the core element and a substantial portion of the tubular support structure. The molded part and the core element each have a respective density, the core element density being less than the molded part density, whereby the presence of the core element within the molded part reduces the overall weight of the support arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2002Publication date: November 7, 2002Inventors: Heinrich Lang, Alfred Kolb, Wolfgang Seiboth, Albrecht Popp
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Patent number: 6474821Abstract: Adjusting device for the outside mirror of a motor vehicle, comprising a drive housing, on which is mounted by means of a central ball and cap bearing a mirror glass carrier, which is provided with intersecting metal toothed strips, chains or the like, which, enveloping the shell-like drive housing, are in engagement with the output toothed gears of two drive motors, disposed in the drive housing, and comprising an electric contactor for the mirror glass to supply electric energy for the mirror heater, the mirror dimmer or other consuming devices, whereby the energy is transported by means of toothed strips, which are electrically insulated from each other in the crossing area.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2001Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Assignee: Buehler Motor GmbHInventors: Arno Schieweck, Andreas Harbauer
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Publication number: 20020149863Abstract: An extensible outside rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a spring-clamped slide mechanism that ensures a zero clearance fit between sliding components to avoid vibration. Bearing members between the sliding components reduce friction and provide a consistent reaction force to ensure smooth operation of an actuator mechanism which extends or retracts the mirror assembly along a support arm. The slide mechanism includes V-shaped guiderails vertically aligned with opposing V-shaped guiderails on the mounting bracket assembly. Rod-like bearing means are interposed between the opposing guiderail pairs. A cantilever clamp jaw with spring means biases one guiderail toward the other with a high spring force which provides superior rigidity and thus enhanced mirror image clarity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2002Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventors: John S. McPherson, Thomas Culp, Cory Brechbill, Keith Fitzgerald
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Publication number: 20020141085Abstract: An extendable exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a mounting bracket, a mirror subassembly, and a support which is supported by the mounting bracket. The mirror subassembly is supported by the support and is mounted for selective movement along the support arm to one of a plurality of viewing positions. The mirror subassembly includes a housing, a reflective element, and an actuator which supports the reflective element on a forward facing wall of the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a clamping assembly which provides a force to urge frictional engagement between the housing and the support to limit movement of the mirror subassembly along the support. In preferred form, the support extends into the housing and frictionally engages an exterior surface of the forward facing wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2002Publication date: October 3, 2002Applicant: Donnelly Corporation, a corporation of the State of MichiganInventors: Peter J. Whitehead, Steven G. Hoek, Michiel P. Van de Ven
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Publication number: 20020141084Abstract: The invention relates to an outside rearview mirror for a motor vehicle. Said rearview mirror comprises a mirror base, to be attached to the motor vehicle; a mirror head, which carries a mirror glass. The invention also relates to a self-blocking drive, arranged in a multipart drive housing, with an electric motor, whose output shaft is in engagement in gear with a reduction gear and/or can be folded and moved back out of the service position (F to P) about a swivel axis and hinged to the motor vehicle under the effect of an external force; and the invention relates to electromechanical or electronic means, detecting a relative movement. In a known servo drive of this type, time consuming installation steps must be performed. Therefore, the object of the present invention is to enable a relatively arbitrary number of ways to lead the motor connections out and to enable the motor to move out of a blocked position while the installation remains simple.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2002Publication date: October 3, 2002Inventor: Karl-Heinz Bohm
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Publication number: 20020135904Abstract: This invention proposes a rotation restricting structure of an automobile door mirror, in which a shaft is erected on the top surface of a projection portion of a mirror base, and in which a frame for supporting a mirror body is turnably fitted onto the shaft, and in which a stopper member for restricting a turning angle by engaging with the frame is provided between the frame and the shaft. The stopper member comprises a projection, which is formed on the shaft base portion in such a way as to be integral therewith, and an angle adjusting plate provided separately from the projection. The adjusting plate having a thickness corresponding to a folding angle of the door mirror is attached to each or one of both the opposite side surfaces of the projection. Thus, even when the folding angle of the mirror body is changed, the frame and the shaft can be used in common among the door mirrors. Moreover, the strength of the stopper can be increased.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2001Publication date: September 26, 2002Inventor: Toshihiro Mochizuki
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Publication number: 20020135905Abstract: A foldable mirror device for a vehicle, in which a case is mounted on a support shaft erected from a base. The case includes a ring-shaped support portion for supporting the shaft, a motor connected to a transmission for swinging the mirror, and a clutch portion for disengageably engaging with the base. The support portion can be strengthened by ribs between the support portion and other portions of the case. A worm gear of the transmission can be mounted on a motor output shaft to be freely movable therealong, and supported and constrained by supporting a bottom end of the worm gear on the case and accommodating an upper end of the worm gear in a cylindrical projection from a motor base which supports the motor. End portions of convexities and concavities at the engagement portion can be formed in a concave or convex screw shape.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2002Publication date: September 26, 2002Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI-RIKA-DENKI-SEISAKUSHOInventor: Shigeki Yoshida
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Patent number: 6454420Abstract: The rear-view mirror for large vehicles is made up of a case which holds the mirror, articulated to a support which can be fixed to a side of the vehicle. Between the case and the support is a pneumatic cylinder made up of a cylindrical body with two air input apertures and a piston. The end of the cylindrical body is articulated to a point of the case conveniently distant from the support of the same, while the free end of the piston can be seen with a jointed extension inside of the case, the free end of which has an articulated fork at to the projection of the support.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2001Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Inventors: Daniel Serrano Fernandez, Pedro Serrano Fernandez, Daniel Serrano Gil
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Patent number: 6446999Abstract: A trailer hitch alignment system for providing a driver of a vehicle the ability to visually align the hitch of the vehicle with the tongue of a trailer. The trailer hitch alignment system includes a hitch including a base portion and a joint member extending from the base portion. The hitch assembly further includes a set rod extending upwardly from the base portion. The set rod is positioned proximate the joint member. A mirror assembly is removably couplable to the set rod. The mirror assembly includes a mirror pivotally coupled to a mirror connection frame. The mirror is pivotal about a generally horizontal axis.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2000Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Inventor: Arthur C. Davis, Jr.
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Patent number: 6435684Abstract: A side view mirror apparatus for providing a driver with increased visibility around a vehicle. The apparatus comprises a mirror housing having a cavity for insertion of a distal portion of a rod, the housing being rotatable about the rod. A clip is attached to the proximal portion of the rod for clipping the side view mirror apparatus to a vehicle, preferably a window edge.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2000Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Inventor: Zu Sheng Yu