Identical Side Mirrors Adjustable With Respect To A Central Mirror Patents (Class 359/854)
  • Patent number: 11103048
    Abstract: A portable mirror assembly (1) having a plurality of mirrors (8), each of which has an increasing level of magnification. The mirrors are preferably connected via one or more hinges (6) and/or pivot points (9) that allow the plurality of mirrors to be folded out into an open position and into a desired configuration revealing the particular mirror or mirrors an individual desires to use for a specific application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Inventor: Dorothy L. Kramer
  • Patent number: 11052423
    Abstract: A device for applying UV radiation to substrates in a field of application. The device includes: a radiation source, which emits both UV radiation and visible light and infrared radiation in a spatial angle; and a radiation-selective deflecting mirror, which mostly reflects the UV radiation and mostly transmits the VIS and IR radiation. The deflecting mirror includes at least two flat mirror strips, which are tilted with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: OERLIKON SURFACE SOLUTIONS AG, PFÄFFIKON
    Inventor: Othmar Zuger
  • Patent number: 10722052
    Abstract: A first center mirror and a second mirror are each suspended from a main bracket. The second mirror is pivotally connected to a bar which pivotally attaches to the main bracket and also to the second mirror. A third mirror is optionally pivotally connected to an arm pivotally attached to the main bracket. The first mirror is also preferably pivotally attached to an arm which is itself pivotally attached to the main bracket. An adjustably positionable top mirror can also be mounted to the main bracket. A close-up auxiliary mirror can be suspended from one of the other mirrors. Bushings support the arms upon the main bracket and support the mirrors upon the arms, with the bushings including a detent system to hold the mirrors in predefined positions. A person can stand multiple places and have mirrors positioned about the person for viewing different sides at each place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Inventor: Daniel Garret Welch
  • Patent number: 10625170
    Abstract: An immersive device may include a floor reflective mirrored surface, a first wall reflective mirrored surface, a second wall reflective mirrored surface, a third wall reflective mirrored surface, a fourth wall reflective mirrored surface, and a ceiling reflective mirrored surface. The reflective mirrored surfaces may form a perimeter of and bound the reflective chamber. One or more light emitting elements may be configured to emit light into the reflective chamber. A processing unit may be in electrical communication with the light emitting elements. A sound device may be in communication with the processing unit, and the sound device may be configured to output sound to a user within the reflective chamber. An array of sensors, such as: digital camera, microphone, and electrophysiological monitoring devices that may be in communication with the processing unit, and are configured to change the experience of the user within the chamber depending upon the signals from the sensors on the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: Lumena Inc.
    Inventor: Kaleb Matson
  • Patent number: 10589685
    Abstract: Billions of people around the world use a mirror more than once a day. Millions of people own a motor vehicle. The last place we find ourselves prior to many events is in our car. Such events include going on a date, touching up makeup, an important job interview, and other instances where we need to look our best. It is crucial to provide a superior light and mirror experience for facial viewing in these situations. I have created a revolutionary product to help millions around the world succeed by helping them see themselves in better light. More broadly, I have provided solutions, involving combinations of mirrors, light elements, and display screens, for providing users with superior mirror-related experiences in various vanity, medical, travel, and entertainment situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Inventor: Lilly R. Talavera
  • Patent number: 10534157
    Abstract: Various expandable mirrors and a vehicle having the same are described. An expandable mirror may include a first pane having a first reflective surface and a second pane having a second reflective surface. The expandable mirror may also include a mechanism connected with each of the first and second panes. The mechanism may be actuated to expand a viewing area of the mirror such that the expanded viewing area includes both the first and second reflective surfaces. The expandable mirror may also include a third pane having a third reflective surface that contributes to the viewing area when the mirror is expanded. The expandable mirror may also include a manual button configured to actuate or de-actuate the mechanism when pressed. The expandable mirror may also include a positioning motor configured to adjust the orientation of the viewing area of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Leigh Gray Hagestad, John Michael Galan Ferrer, Victoria Leigh Schein, Nitin Bandaru
  • Patent number: 10308190
    Abstract: A mobile device holder for a rear-view mirror of a vehicle may include a mirror housing, a mobile device bracket arranged on a support, the support arranged at least partially within the mirror housing in a stored position, and a deployment mechanism connected to the support and including a pin configured to rotatedly hinge the support from the stored position to a deployed position extending out of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Leonardo Alonso Huitron, Edgar Javier Ortega, Allan Alberto Mejia Jaramillo, Omar Antonio Ramirez Pavon
  • Patent number: 10191243
    Abstract: Various expandable mirrors and a vehicle having the same are described. An expandable mirror may include a first pane having a first reflective surface and a second pane having a second reflective surface. The expandable mirror may also include a mechanism connected with each of the first and second panes. The mechanism may be actuated to expand a viewing area of the mirror such that the expanded viewing area includes both the first and second reflective surfaces. The expandable mirror may also include a third pane having a third reflective surface that contributes to the viewing area when the mirror is expanded. The expandable mirror may also include a manual button configured to actuate or de-actuate the mechanism when pressed. The expandable mirror may also include a positioning motor configured to adjust the orientation of the viewing area of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Leigh Gray Hagestad, John Michael Galan Ferrer, Victoria Leigh Schein, Nitin Bandaru
  • Patent number: 9817209
    Abstract: A mirror assembly including a base, a first mirror, at least one first magnetic component, at least one second magnetic component, at least one supporting frame, and at least one second mirror is provided. The base has a first recess, a side wall portion surrounding the first recess, and at least one second recess located on the side wall portion. The first mirror is disposed on the base and covers the first recess. The first magnetic component is disposed on the side wall portion and corresponding to the second recess, and is located in the first recess. The second magnetic component is inserted into the second recess, and the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component attract each other. The supporting frame is pivoted to the second magnetic component so as to rotate relative to the base. The second mirror is disposed on the supporting frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: CAL-COMP BIG DATA, INC.
    Inventors: Teng-Nan Lo, Hsin-Ju Kuo, Cheng-Chih Hsu
  • Patent number: 9802486
    Abstract: System and method for using an interior display device in a vehicle. The interior display device includes a projection device and a controller. The controller is configured to receive a plurality of vehicle parameters and determine an expected location within an interior of the vehicle based on the plurality of vehicle parameters. The expected location corresponds to an interior area of the vehicle where a driver would be expected to look. The controller is further configured to select an image (515, 520) based on the plurality of vehicles parameters and operate the projection device to project the image at the expected location within the interior of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Jeffrey Allen Bochenek, Jonathan Charles Diedrich
  • Patent number: 9565921
    Abstract: A magnifying cosmetic mirror for use in applying cosmetics at the eye. The cosmetic mirror is constructed to have a base mirror and side mirrors extending at obtuse angles from opposite sides of the base mirror. The side mirrors are constructed as magnifying mirrors, such as spherical concave mirrors, of a focal length that provides a magnifying view of the eye when placed above the base mirror. The magnification of the side mirrors is selected according to the separation of the side mirrors from one another, and the angles at which they extend from the base mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: MYJF Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Janelle Friedman, Michael R. Moussa
  • Patent number: 9187944
    Abstract: An opening system comprising an upper bearing section bar (1) fastened to the vertical rods, a gripper for the plate (4) made up of a first section bar (2) and of a second section bar (3) and at least one moving device (5) for the plate (4); each moving device (5) is made up of a support section bar (6), a right angle gearbox, an arm (7), a gas spring (8) and a clamp (9); the right angle gearbox is made up of a first conical cogwheel (10) and a second conical cogwheel (11) engaging each other; the arm of the first conical cogwheel (10) acts as lever, transforming the axial movement of the rod of the gas spring (8) into a radial movement of the second conical cogwheel (11) and of the elements linked thereto: clamp (9), gripper for the plate (4) and plate itself (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Inventor: Alessandro Cianetti
  • Publication number: 20140327980
    Abstract: A three mirror assembly provides wide-angle rear view including blind spots for a vehicle. The center one is regular flat mirror. The other two are progressive convex mirrors that are side attached to the center one and are adjustable and detachable independently to suit vehicle operator's sitting postures and preference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventor: Sun Way Shue
  • Patent number: 8801188
    Abstract: A central distance measuring device, which can be directed at the heliostats, is used to determine the settings of the heliostats of a heliostat field. The distance measuring device measures the space between a plurality of measuring points from the measuring site and, based on this, determines the spatial alignment of the respective heliostat. A computer contains astronomical solar altitude software and controls an actuating device of the heliostat such that the heliostat assumes the alignment intended according to the solar altitude. With the invention, position sensors and/or angle sensors on the individual heliostats are avoided. All heliostats are aligned by a central computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Deutsches Zentrum fuer Luft-und Raumfahrt e.V.
    Inventors: Bernhard Hoffschmidt, Joachim Göttsche, Markus Sauerborn, Helmut Essen, Gört Luedtke, Gregor Biegel
  • Patent number: 8770767
    Abstract: The sliding mirror system permits a 360° view of an object or subject to be viewed. The system includes a plurality of panels, at least one panel being movable relative to the other panels. The movable panel(s) is mounted on rails or the like for sliding movement. Each panel is configured as a portion of an arc. Multiple mirrors are mounted on the face of each panel. Each mirror may also assume an arc-shaped configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventor: Edwine A. Billiot
  • Patent number: 8556447
    Abstract: A mountable, adjustable, and removable personal mirror system, which allows the user to obtain close-in or far-away panoramic views. The user can adjust the position (how close together), the angle, and the orientation (e.g., side-to-side or top-and-bottom) of the mirrors. By so adjusting the mirrors, the user will see a much wider variety of visual information than with currently existing personal mirrors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Andre J. Griggs
  • Patent number: 7942536
    Abstract: A panoramic cosmetic mirror assembly providing multiple images of an individual's face from a variety of angles. This mirror assembly is an assembly of at least five flat mirrors including a central quadrangular flat plane mirror and four additional flat plane side mirrors attached to each side of the central mirror. The plane of each side mirror is beveled forward relative to that of the central mirror to allow each mirror to reflect the images in the other four mirrors. Additional features include the use of magnifying mirrors, electrical illumination and ventilation, and an adjustable stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Trulah Roeseler Johnson
  • Patent number: 7891824
    Abstract: A reflector for the lighting device and an illumination system of the projection apparatus are provided. The reflector comprises a first reflecting structure and a second reflecting structure disposed on the portion of the first reflecting structure. The reflecting surfaces of the first and second reflecting structures are formed with a distance therebetween. After the first portion of the light is reflected from the first reflecting surface and the second portion of the light is reflected from the second reflecting surface, the second portion of the light is adapted to remove the centrally dimmed area at the opening of the lighting device. Thus, the luminance performance can be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Junejei Huang
  • Patent number: 7789516
    Abstract: A thin projection type image display device with a low chin height includes a cabinet, a screen, a projection optical system, an optical path changing unit, and a reflecting unit. The screen is disposed on a front side of the cabinet. The projection optical system enlarges and projects an image formed by a display element, and the optical path changing unit is disposed on the bottom of the cabinet to reflect the image enlarged and projected by the projection optical system. The reflection unit is disposed obliquely to the screen and below the screen to reflect the image reflected by the optical path changing unit toward the screen. The projection optical system is disposed in a space above a horizontal plane perpendicular to the screen, behind the front side of the cabinet, and below an optical path of light incident on a bottom of the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Young-chol Lee, Kun-Ho Cho, Jong-soo Lee, Jae-hyun Park
  • Publication number: 20100118422
    Abstract: A folding multipart mirror and storage device which is concealed within an ornamental cover. The folding multipart mirror has side mirror extensions that fold together to form a compact structure which minimizes space when not in use. When folded, the rear surface of the side mirror extensions can optionally be decorated with artwork such that when the mirror is not in use, the mirror assembly becomes a decorative work of art. Optionally, the side mirror extensions may also contain general storage compartments for a variety of items, or storage for jewelry. A hidden storage compartment for high-value items, such as jewelry, cash, legal documents, etc. is provided behind the central section of the mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Marie Holacka
  • Patent number: 7586676
    Abstract: An optical device for imaging a specimen (16) has a main objective (2) and a device (120) for modifying depth of field, the device (120) representing a micromirror array (5?) having micromirrors (50) that are individually controllable and adjustable as to their spatial orientation. In addition to the increase in depth of field, a variable objective can also be produced. The invention is particularly suitable for use in a microscope where deflection of the observation beam path is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Leica Microsystems (Schwiez) AG
    Inventor: Ulrich Sander
  • Publication number: 20090174958
    Abstract: A system of mirrors provides multiple views of the various sides of a vehicle to the driver. In this system, one mirror is a conventional mirror that shows the conventional rear and side views of the vehicle. The second mirror can be adjacent the conventional mirror but angled away from the conventional mirror such that this second mirror does not reflect in the same direction as the conventional mirror. The third (outer) mirror is positioned such that it faces a direction somewhat opposite from the second mirror. The mirrors are contained in a housing that has a clear or transparent side opposite the side of the housing containing. The third mirror is position such that mirror reflects an image of the contents that are seen through transparent side of the mirror housing. This image shown in the third mirror is reflected by the second mirror such that the driver can look through the second mirror and see images that are in the front of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: Andre Roberson
  • Patent number: 7515226
    Abstract: The present invention provides a reflector having a light-diffusing property which suppresses inter-object reflection over a wide angle, and giving particularly high reflectance in an intended range of viewing angle; and to provide a reflection type liquid crystal display device using the same. The reflector includes a plurality of light-reflective concave portions. Each of the concave portions is formed so that an inclination angle (an angle between a plane tangential to a point on a concave surface and the surface of the base material) is maximum on a side portion of the curved surface, and so that the direction of the side portion having the maximum inclination angle is on a far side from a view point of an observer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsumasa Yoshii, Tatsuya Moriike, Kenji Omote, Mitsuru Kano
  • Patent number: 7489434
    Abstract: This invention provides a Hybrid Micromirror Array Lens with reduced chromatic aberration over a broadband wavelength range of light. Conventional micromirror array lens uses phase matching condition. Therefore, the optical surface profile of Micromirror Array Lens using the same phase condition has a discontinuous surface profile. As the required optical power of Micromirror Array Lens is increased, the number of profile discontinuity of Micromirror Array Lens is increased. Therefore, the chromatic aberration is increased. To minimize the chromatic aberration, the number of profile discontinuity should be minimized. The number of discontinuity is reduced when the optical surface profile has a simulating base curve, called a translation contour with optical power. Hybrid Micromirror Array Lens is invented to reduce a large translational amount and chromatic aberration for large optical power lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignees: Angstrom, Inc., Stereo Display, Inc.
    Inventors: Gyoung Il Cho, Jin Young Sohn, Sang Hyune Baek, Cheong Soo Seo
  • Patent number: 7347573
    Abstract: The Present invention relates to a portable folding mirror. The mirror has a rear mirror panel, a plurality of mirror panels secured to the rear mirror panel. The plurality of mirror panels includes a base mirror panel, and two front mirror panels, wherein each panel is secured to the rear mirror panel by at least one hinge. The plurality of panels have a closed position where they are folded over the rear panel and an open position where they are folded off and away from the base panel. There is a light fixture located at the top of the rear panel to aid the user. Power to the light may be provided by a battery or by an electric cord. A carrying handle can be provided to make it easy to transport the portable mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Inventor: Glenn E Isler
  • Patent number: 7329016
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a foot inspection mirror and, more particularly, to a foot inspection device comprised of an assembly of mirrors positioned in such an array so as to assist diabetics and other users in visually self-inspecting all sides of an illuminated foot without unnecessary standing or maneuvering. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: Helen Shonk
  • Patent number: 7300169
    Abstract: The embodiments of the invention provide a viewing system having an upright member, a first mirror coupled to the upright member, a light source coupled to the upright member, and a retractable mirror assembly coupled to the upright member. The retractable mirror assembly includes a horizontal support coupled on one end to the upright member, an adjustable vertical support coupled on one end to the other end of the horizontal support, and a second mirror coupled to the other end of the adjustable vertical support. A user can adjust the position of the second mirror by retracting or extending the adjustable vertical support. The system can include a remote control or a control switch coupled to the adjustable vertical support to control the extension and retraction of the adjustable vertical support. The second mirror can be foldable to allow for multiple viewing angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Chi Yau Yue
  • Patent number: 6793356
    Abstract: An omnidirectional vision sensor includes: an optical system including a body-of-revolution mirror having a convex portion and having a symmetrical structure with respect to a revolution axis, wherein the body-of-revolution mirror includes a cutaway section in the convex portion of the body-of-revolution mirror so as to allow light incident from surroundings of the revolution axis of the body-of-revolution mirror to be collected; and imaging means, including a light-receiving element for receiving the collected light and image processing means for converting an optical image generated from the collected light received by the light-receiving element into image data. The revolution axis of the body-of-revolution mirror and an optic axis of the light-receiving element coincide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Kumata, Shinichi Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20040125474
    Abstract: The present invention provides a multi-view mirror having a mirror frame including an inwardly disposed center and two outwardly disposed mirror mounting elements attached to the frame on opposite sides of the center. The multi-view mirror includes a first mirror having an outward edge pivotally mounted to one of the mounting elements of the frame and an inward edge disposed inwardly of the outward edge near the center of the frame and a second mirror having an outward edge pivotally mounted to one of the mounting elements of the frame and an inward edge disposed inwardly of the outward edge near the center of the frame. The first mirror and second mirror are angularly positionable relative to the frame wherein at least one of the first and second mirrors are pivoted about one of the mounting elements to form a generally angled mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: Bradley Sawyer
  • Patent number: 6715894
    Abstract: A mirror unit having two mirrors, so the area in front of the mirror can be viewed, is adjustable in a plurality of planes to facilitate use by a wide range of users. The mirror unit can be used on a motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Inventor: Henderson O. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6672729
    Abstract: A reflector employs shapes that transfer light and sound emission from sources to planes or volumes in an efficient and controlled manner. Reflector troughs employ shaped ends that increase the efficiency of utilizing output from sources, improve uniformity and project light outside the footprint of the reflector. A slanted trough reflector projects light out one or both ends of the trough outside the footprint of the reflector. Axi-symmetric and linear-symmetric reflectors provide directionality for specific applications. Sources that erode are enclosed by shaped reflectors to maintain directionality as the source erodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Phoenix Science and Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond B. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 6588911
    Abstract: A three piece interior rear view mirror assembly for a vehicle having an upper mirror and a lower mirror, and a lower left and a lower right mirror independently mounted beneath the upper mirror. The left and right mirrors are disposed at a position between the upper mirror and the windshield. The upper, right and left mirrors are each independently adjustable on socket and sphere mountings. The entire rear view mirror assembly is further mounted on sphere and socket mountings adjacent the windshield of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Jose L. Martinez
  • Publication number: 20030043481
    Abstract: The Blindview Mirror invention enhances motor vehicle safety by allowing drivers the ability to scan his or her blind spot even with incorrectly adjusted side mirrors. This device helps drivers make safer decisions prior to high speed lane changes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Todd Randolph DeHart
  • Patent number: 6481859
    Abstract: A receiving layer of a radiant energy concentrator has a set of collecting members arranged on a same level. In one embodiment upper edges of the members form a hexagonal honeycomb structure in a plane, and in another embodiment the members form an orthogonal matrix of square shaped elements. In the hexagonal honeycomb structure the collecting members are made in the form of funnels with reflective internal surfaces, and in the orthogonal matrix the collecting members are optical lenses or made in the form of paraboloidal-hyperboloidal concentrators. Layers having reflectors are provided under the receiving layer. Light beams from peripheral collecting members are transmitted by reflectors disposed under the receiving layer to a center of a central member. Successive layers further concentrate receiving light beams in a similar manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Aleksandre Moseshvili
  • Patent number: 6439729
    Abstract: A wide room mirror in the present invention has a main mirror formed in the shape of a plate body and detachably attached to the surface side of an existing room mirror such that the surface of the existing room mirror is covered with the main mirror. The wide room mirror also has an auxiliary mirror movably connected to the main mirror through a connecting member and supported by the main mirror. Accordingly, a driver can simply use the wide room mirror by attaching the wide room mirror to the conventional existing room mirror. Therefore, a region having an angle and a range wider than those of a region reflected on only the existing room mirror can be seen by the auxiliary mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Nagayama Koukichi
  • Patent number: 6431713
    Abstract: An improved mirror assembly comprises a combination of mirrors at the front corners of the vehicle along with a pair of side mirrors and a mirror at the back of the vehicle. The mirrors are so positioned to eliminate any blind spots along the boundaries of the vehicle while enhancing the lines of sight therealong, particularly for objects along the front and rear of the vehicle. The mirrors associated with these latter zones are positioned so as to be adjacent the driver to preclude obstruction by packages stacked in the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventor: Edward J. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20020015240
    Abstract: A wide room mirror in the present invention has a main mirror formed in the shape of a plate body and detachably attached to the surface side of an existing room mirror such that the surface of the existing room mirror is covered with the main mirror. The wide room mirror also has an auxiliary mirror movably connected to the main mirror through a connecting member and supported by the main mirror. Accordingly, a driver can simply use the wide room mirror by attaching the wide room mirror to the conventional existing room mirror. Therefore, a region having an angle and a range wider than those of a region reflected on only the existing room mirror can be seen by the auxiliary mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventor: Nagayama Koukichi
  • Patent number: 6315419
    Abstract: A composite mirror adapted for use as an outside rearview mirror of a motor vehicle includes a main or primary viewing mirror and an auxiliary blindzone viewing mirror juxtaposed to expose the vehicle blindzone to the vehicle operator. The main viewing mirror is generally of unit magnification. The auxiliary mirror is composed of a planar array of reflecting facets mimicking a convex mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: George Erhardt Platzer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6312133
    Abstract: A wide room mirror in the present invention has a main mirror formed in the shape of a plate body and detachably attached to the surface side of an existing room mirror such that the surface of the existing room mirror is covered with the main mirror. The wide room mirror also has an auxiliary mirror movably connected to the main mirror through a connecting member and supported by the main mirror. Accordingly, a driver can simply use the wide room mirror by attaching the wide room mirror to the conventional existing room mirror. Therefore, a region having an angle and a range wider than those of a region reflected on only the existing room mirror can be seen by the auxiliary mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Nagayama Koukichi
  • Patent number: 6270226
    Abstract: A multi-image viewing device having two reflective sections adjacent to one another, a single flexible backing attached to the backs the two reflective sections such that a side edge of each of the reflective sections is adjacent to one another to thereby form a movable hinge, and a registration mechanism for adjustably setting the reflective sections into one or more of a plurality of angles adapted for viewing multi-images of a single object. The registration mechanism is a flexible strap pivotably connected at one end of one reflective section and is removably connectable at another end of the other reflective section. Indicia are on the strap or on the back side of one reflective section are used to set the reflective sections into one or more of a plurality of angles. The registration mechanism may also consist of a base member having multiple slots, each having predetermined angles, into which the two reflective sections insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Inventor: William G. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6199990
    Abstract: A method of reversing a laser beam in a machine includes orienting a pair of reflective surfaces at an angle of approximately 90° relative to each other. The laser beam is directed in a first direction such that the laser beam sequentially impinges upon a first of the reflective surfaces reflects off of the first reflective surface, impinges upon a second of the reflective surfaces, and reflects off of the second reflective surface in a second direction substantially parallel to and opposite the first direction. A pivot axis is substantially parallel to each of the reflective surfaces. Each of the reflective surfaces is pivoted about the pivot axis by a substantially equal angle to thereby change a position of the laser beam after reflecting off of the second reflective surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Lexmark International, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Gregory Chee, Susan Marie Moore, Earl Dawson Ward, II
  • Patent number: 6126289
    Abstract: A wide room mirror in the present invention has a main mirror formed in the shape of a plate body and detachably attached to the surface side of an existing room mirror such that the surface of the existing room mirror is covered with the main mirror. The wide room mirror also has an auxiliary mirror movably connected to the main mirror through a connecting member and supported by the main mirror. Accordingly, a driver can simply use the wide room mirror by attaching the wide room mirror to the conventional existing room mirror. Therefore, a region having an angle and a range wider than those of a region reflected on only the existing room mirror can be seen by the auxiliary mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Koukichi Nagayama
  • Patent number: 6062699
    Abstract: A rear view safety mirror includes two single-planed mirrors mounted at an angle to one another. In the preferred embodiment, the inside mirror is mounted at a steeper pitch than the outside mirror. Preferably, the mirrors are mounted in pockets or slots in a one piece molded plastic housing, wherein the pockets or slots are configured to have the angle. The plastic housing is mounted to the vehicle in a conventional manner, thereby providing the vehicle's operator with familiar adjustment control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph C. O'Dea
  • Patent number: 6007207
    Abstract: A rear view mirror combination is particularly suitable for monitoring obstructions in typical blind spot locations as well as directly to the rear. An accessory for a rear view mirror includes a base for mounting to a structure that supports a main mirror nominally oriented in a main reflection plane; a first auxiliary mirror mounted to the base and extending generally vertically relative to the structure and vertically offset from the main rear view mirror, the first auxiliary mirror is angled outwardly between approximately 25 degrees and approximately 50 degrees from the main reflection plane. The base can have a vertically projecting face portion for fastening to a forwardly facing surface of the structure, or a generally downwardly facing face portion for fastening to an upwardly facing surface of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Warren S. Liu
  • Patent number: 5949594
    Abstract: A device (28) is transported into space for transmitting information from space to earth. On the device (28) there is disposed a plurality of reflectors (10) to be distributed in a raster or grid configuration on a framework (11). Of these reflectors (10), certain reflectors (10), which are selected as a function of the information to be transmitted, are brought into a position in which they reflect light beams, emanating from the sun, to the earth (26). The respective information becomes visible to an observer on the earth (26) in that the selected reflectors (10) give a sequencing of light points which corresponds to the information to be transmitted. On the other hand, the reflectors (10) which are not needed to the display of the respective information are in a position, relative to the sun, which does not allow these reflectors (10) to be perceived as light points by the observer on the earth (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventors: Heinrich Iglseder, Wolfgang Arens-Fischer
  • Patent number: 5949595
    Abstract: A child view safety mirror comprising a main mirror. A structure is provided for mounting the main mirror to a rear surface of a front windshield of a motor vehicle, so that the driver can use the main mirror as a rear view mirror, to look out of the rear windshield of the motor vehicle. A top angled mirror is on the main mirror, so that the driver can use the top angled mirror to view the rear seating area in the motor vehicle, to see children in the rear seats. A left side mirror is provided. A first assembly attaches the left side mirror in an adjustable manner to a left side of the main mirror. A right side mirror is also provided. A second assembly attaches the right side mirror in an adjustable manner to a right side of the main mirror. When the left side mirror and the right side mirror are turned inwardly, the driver can see behind the front seats from one side of the motor vehicle to the other side giving a full view of the entire interior of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Glen Kissinger
  • Patent number: 5946149
    Abstract: A non-distorting auxiliary rear view vision enhancing assembly which attaches onto an existing automotive interior main rear view mirror. The assembly comprises an auxiliary mirror shell having a front and back side with a non-distorting mirror placed on the front side, and a connecting arm connected to the back side of the auxiliary mirror shell for attaching the mirror shell to the main rear view mirror. In turn, the connecting arm has a ball joint pivot at substantially one end of the connecting arm and attached to the mirror shell. This provides for angular rotation of the mirror shell in the left and right, as well as the up and down tilt position. A spring loaded clamp is placed at substantially the end of the connecting arm opposite the ball joint pivot, for attachment of the connecting arm and the mirror shell to the main rear view mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Excel Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Ned Hoffman
  • Patent number: 5808818
    Abstract: A vehicle internal rear-view mirror assembly includes a base frame mounted inside a motor vehicle between the driver's seat and the windshield glass, two retractable coupling tubes coupled to the base frame at two opposite sides, and two rear-view mirrors respectively coupled to the retractable coupling tubes by universal joints, each rear-view mirror being marked with a reference angle sign, which coincides with a respective angle sign at one front door window of the motor vehicle when the respective rear-view mirror is adjusted to a predetermined angle to reflect traffic approaching from one side, and a plurality of vertical vehicle speed reference lines through which the driver can estimate the speed of the motor vehicle approaching from behind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Chiang Terng Leou
  • Patent number: 5526195
    Abstract: A rear view system for a vehicle (10) includes in combination a light transmitting member (2) and a light reflective medium (16) spatially displaced from the member. The member has a first face (4) for light emergence from which in use light rays are directed towards the medium (16) and a second face (6) for light incidence, each face being disposed on a respective side of a median plane (8). The member (2) comprises a plurality of elemental prismatic sections, the prismatic angles of the elemental sections progressively changing along the length of the member whereby rays of refracted light emerging through the first face are in parallelism or substantial parallelism one with the other irrespective of the angles of incidence of the rays. The shape of the light transmitting member (2) is such as to afford a wide angular scope of view to the system thereby to enhance safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: Optical Perspectives Ltd.
    Inventor: Justin M. Thomas
  • Patent number: 5321556
    Abstract: The present invention is a vehicle safety rearview mirror assembly with distortion offset element and method of using the same. The rearview mirror assembly comprises an elongated convex mirror. The convex mirror is independently supported by a double-ball-joint shank and a mounting base affixed on the windshield of the vehicle. The present invention also provides a method to offset the distortion created by the convex mirror. The method combines a safety reference and a safety locker to tell the driver whether and when it is safe to change lanes or make turns. The safety reference includes two opposite end portions of the rearward visual field respectively prescribed by the side windows of the vehicle, and the safety locker includes the central portion of the extended rearward visual field respectively prescribed by the rear window of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Inventor: Tobby F. Joe