With A Rigid Handle Extending To Or Near A Mirror Pivot Patents (Class 359/875)
  • Patent number: 11448855
    Abstract: A multi-functional mirror, includes: a mirror part including a mirror surface and a housing for fixing the mirror surface; a connecting rod detachably connected to the housing and used to support the mirror part; and a base detachably connected to the connecting rod and used to fix and support the connecting rod, where the base has a holding portion for holding a smart terminal. The multi-functional mirror not only can be used as a mirror but also can be used as a support for a smart terminal, and is high in detachability and good in replaceability of each part and thus convenient to carry. The mirror can also be used as a mirror on an office table to view people behind, thereby preventing peeping, preventing viewing by workmates and boss and ensuring security in the office. The mirror can further be used as a cosmetic mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Inventor: Ce Jiao
  • Patent number: 10881196
    Abstract: The makeup application brush with detachable illuminated mirror is comprised of a cosmetic brush and a lighted mirror integrated into one device. The lighted mirror is attached to a proximal end of the makeup application brush handle with the makeup brush head at a distal end of the makeup application brush handle. The makeup application brush is separated by screwing apart the handle for independent use of the lighted mirror or cosmetic brush. The lighted mirror segment is powered by USB charging. With the provision of visibility and lighting from the lighted mirror, the makeup application brush can be used for makeup application or makeup removal. The makeup application brush is innovative in the beauty industry field by combining two beauty accessories: a lighted mirror and a makeup application brush into one device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Inventor: Joshua Tyson
  • Patent number: 10750895
    Abstract: A coupler system for connecting elongate, horizontally disposed rods to vertical supports includes a top-cap component for attaching to the top of a vertical support, and including a body with plural cavities formed therein, and at least one ball-cap component for attaching to an end of a rod, and including a ball region that is constructed to fit within one of the plural cavities of the top-cap component. The body may be formed with four of the plural cavities, with each of them having beveled edges. The ball-cap components may include a ball region, a neck region, and an angled region located adjacent the neck region and away from the ball region. The top-cap and ball-cap components may include insertion regions with opposing sets of ribs. The coupler system may further include a cover component, and the body may be formed with a central hole for receiving a fastener that secures the cover component to the top-cap component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: Grovist Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Vince Ovist, William T. Grohs
  • Patent number: 10251505
    Abstract: A coupler system for connecting elongate, horizontally disposed rods to vertical supports includes a top-cap component for attaching to the top of a vertical support, and including a body with plural cavities formed therein, and at least one ball-cap component for attaching to an end of a rod, and including a ball region that is constructed to fit within one of the plural cavities of the top-cap component. The body may be formed with four of the plural cavities, with each of them having beveled edges. The ball-cap components may include a ball region, a neck region, and an angled region located adjacent the neck region and away from the ball region. The top-cap and ball-cap components may include insertion regions with opposing sets of ribs. The coupler system may further include a cover component, and the body may be formed with a central hole for receiving a fastener that secures the cover component to the top-cap component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: Grovist Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Vince Ovist, William T. Grohs
  • Patent number: 9211027
    Abstract: A coupler system for connecting elongate, horizontally disposed rods to vertical supports includes a top-cap component for attaching to the top of a vertical support and a ball-cap component for attaching to an end of a rod. The top-cap component includes a body formed with plural cavities, and the ball-cap component includes a ball region that is constructed to fit within one of the plural cavities. The body may be formed with four plural cavities, with each defined by beveled edges. The ball-cap components may include a ball region, a neck region, and an angled region located adjacent the neck region and away from the ball region. The top-cap and ball-cap components may also include insertion regions with opposing sets of ribs. The coupler system may further include a cover component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: Grovist Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Vince Ovist, William T. Grohs
  • Publication number: 20150062729
    Abstract: A self-catheterization aid for a woman that comprises a tripod. Mounted to the tripod is a mirror that can be moved and adjusted in various planes. Mounted to the mirror is a battery-powered light. The device enables a woman to appropriately position the self-catheterization device such that the mirror and light is aimed at the urethra area. This enables the woman to clearly see the inlet to the urethra which in turn facilitates self-catheterization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: Edward Glenn Barbour, Michael Eugene King
  • Patent number: 8851690
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror head and a mounting assembly for adjustably mounting the mirror head at an interior portion of a vehicle. The mounting assembly includes a mounting structure that is attachable to an interior portion of the vehicle and includes a mirror mounting element pivotally attached at an end of the mounting structure to establish a mirror ball pivot joint. The attaching portion of the mirror mounting element is configured to attach to a receiving portion of the mirror head via a snap connection and/or a twist connection. The attaching portion of the mirror mounting element, when the mirror mounting element is attached at the end of the mounting structure, is attachable to the receiving portion of the mirror head from a position rearward of the mirror casing and from exterior the mirror casing to attach the mirror head at the mounting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Uken, Donald S. Rawlings
  • Publication number: 20140268383
    Abstract: A reaction compensated tilt platform assembly comprises a support base, and a reaction mass, pivotally coupled to the support base. A tilt platform which can function as or support a mirror is pivotally coupled to the support base. At least two linear actuator coil assemblies are carried by the reaction mass. At least two linear actuator magnet assemblies are carried by the tilt platform and are disposable within the at least two linear actuator coil assemblies. The linear actuator magnet assemblies taper from a larger diameter toward a center of the magnet assembly to a smaller diameter toward an end of the magnet assemblies. Actuation of the linear actuator magnets results in pivotal movement of the tilt platform relative to the reaction mass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Raytheon Company
  • Patent number: 8702251
    Abstract: Disclosed is a light-collecting heliostat using flat mirrors of enhanced light-collecting efficiency. The gradients of low-price flat mirrors are adjusted when reflecting sunlight by the heliostat equipped with the flat mirrors, thereby causing reflection focal areas having the same size as each of the mirrors to overlap, in the same number as the number of the reflective plates constituting the heliostat, on a heat collecting unit of collecting lights, so that a high temperature light-collecting focal area with a uniform temperature distribution is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Energy Research
    Inventors: Sang-Nam Lee, Jong-Kyu Kim, Yong-Heack Kang
  • Patent number: 8602571
    Abstract: A mirror arrangement (10) for monitoring a passenger cabin of an aircraft is disclosed, comprising at least one mirror element (40) for reflecting light and a mirror mount (20) for fastening the at least one mirror element (40) inside the passenger cabin, the mirror mount (20) comprising a holder (22), to which the at least one mirror element (40) is fastenable and which is displaceable relative to the passenger cabin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Klepka, Stephan Waetzold, Wolfgang Moeller
  • Patent number: 8523371
    Abstract: In a conventional vehicle outside mirror device, there has been a problem that a frictional wear occurs. According to the present invention, an interposing member 6 is provided between a shaft holder 9 and a gear case 11. An electrically rotation range restricting mechanism is a mechanism in which an electrically driven rotation range of a mirror assembly 4 is restricted, and is comprised of abutment faces 33, 34, 43, 44 which are provided at the interposing member 6 and the shaft holder 9. A buffering mechanism is a mechanism which causes the mirror assembly 4 to rotate for the sake of buffering, and is comprised of engagement portions 38, 45 which are provided at the interposing member 6 and the gear case 11. The electrically driven rotation range restricting mechanism and the buffering mechanism are separated from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Ichikoh Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Ikuo Sakata
  • Patent number: 8506099
    Abstract: A freestanding portable holding apparatus for a handheld mirror comprises a base which ensures stability and a center-mounted pole extending upward from the base having a height adjustment mechanism that allows the pole to be extended upwards or downwards as desired by the user. An upper end of the apparatus is provided with an adjustable clip to hold a variety of handheld mirrors in an inverted fashion. It is adjustable in height so that a user can see the rear of their head while looking in another stationary mirror. This feature affords the user the use of both hands while styling hair without having to constantly switch and move the handheld mirror in one hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventors: Jacklyn Abdool, Denise Abdool
  • Patent number: 8474990
    Abstract: A vehicle inside mirror device employs a ball clamp in which a barrel-shaped ball clamp is prepared by assembling a pair of semi-barrel-shaped and symmetrical bodies to accommodate for manufacturing errors and the like. The ball clamp includes a mirror through which a driver can view rearwardly; and a mirror mounting part. The mirror mounting part has a barrel-shaped hinge part. A first ball clamp surrounds and clamps the hinge part. A second ball clamp corresponds to the first ball clamp with a spring between the first ball clamp and the second ball clamp for generating an expansion force. The mirror mounting part is fixed to a glass or a ceiling of a vehicle and has a hinge part for coupling the second ball clamp thereto. A tube surrounding the first ball clamp, the second ball clamp and the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: SMR Patents S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Hyok-Joo Hwang, Young Duck Ko, Kyung Jun Lee, Jin Gee Choi
  • Patent number: 8454178
    Abstract: A mirror adapter mounting device formed of a substantially rigid mounting base portion with one surface thereof comprising a wedge-shaped receiver slot, and a different surface thereof comprising a wedge-shaped coupler; a part-spherical ball coupler; and an arm projected from the mounting base portion and presenting the ball coupler adjacent to an end thereof distal from the mounting base portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • Patent number: 8143820
    Abstract: A motor control device operable to rotate a motor based on an actuated direction of an operation knob of an operation switch in a direction corresponding to the actuated direction has direction selector switches provided corresponding to respective actuated directions of the operation knob, and open/close elements provided between the direction selector switches and a power supply. Each of the open/close elements is turned on when a control current is supplied thereto. When the operation knob is actuated, the direction selector switch corresponding to the actuated direction is turned on, a control current is supplied from the power supply to the open/close element connected to the relevant switch, and the predetermined open/close element is turned on. A drive current that flows from the power supply into the motor through a current carrying path of the open/close element is controlled according to a ON/OFF status of each of the open/close elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: OMRON Corporation
    Inventor: Yoichi Sakuma
  • Patent number: 7828452
    Abstract: A mirror support assembly for a motor vehicle comprising an upper support arm, an upper mounting element for mounting the upper support arms to the vehicle, a lower support arm, and a lower mounting element for mounting the lower support arm to the vehicle. A mirror head brace for uniting the upper and lower support arms includes a cast structural member made by pressure casting. The mirror head brace includes at least one longitudinal groove which determines a defined angular setting between the mirror head brace and the upper and lower support arms. The plurality of scorings functionally determine different angular settings relative to the mirror support arms of a mirror head 12 which is carried by mirror head brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Markus Meier, Jurgen Pfanz, Albrecht Popp, Simon Deffner
  • Publication number: 20100195230
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a vehicle inside mirror device employing ball clamp in which a barrel-shaped ball clamp is prepared by assembling a pair of semi-barrel-shaped and symmetrical bodies to absorb a mechanical error or an assembling error caused by a loosen assembly between the ball clamp and a counterpart or caused by a press-fitting manner for inhibiting a deformation of the ball clamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: SMR Patents S.a.r.I.
    Inventors: Hyok-Joo Hwang, Young Duck Ko, Kyung Jun Lee, Jin Gee Choi
  • Patent number: 7594731
    Abstract: A side mirror assembly for a motor vehicle includes a base which is fixedly secured to the motor vehicle. A tube is pivotably secured to the base. The tube extends between a pivot end and a distal end. A mirror housing defines a mirror opening and a tube opening. The mirror housing receives the distal end and a portion of the tube disposed adjacent the distal end through the tube opening. A mirror is mounted within the mirror housing and is exposed through the mirror opening for an operator of the motor vehicle to view rearward of the motor vehicle without turning completely around. A case frame is fixedly secured to the mirror housing at a position disposed adjacent the mirror. The side mirror assembly also includes a locking lever which is movable between an unlocked position allowing the case frame and the mirror housing to slide along the tube and a lock position for securing the case frame and the mirror housing at a desired position along the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Gary J. Sinelli, Paul R. Henion
  • Publication number: 20090027791
    Abstract: A mirror device includes a handle portion, a connector portion, and a mirror. The handle portion has a first end and a second end having a groove. The connector portion is coupled to the handle portion and has a ball-shaped first end and a second end. The ball-shaped first end is disposed within the groove such that the connector portion may rotate with respect to the handle portion and is adjustable with respect to the second end of the handle portion such that the connector portion may be positioned vertically and perpendicularly with respect to the handle portion. The mirror is coupled to the second end of the connector portion such that the mirror may rotate in conjunction with the connector portion and may be angularly positioned with respect to the handle portion based on the angular position of the connector portion with respect to the handle portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Chi Yau Yue
  • Patent number: 7475998
    Abstract: The invention is an inspection mirror with an adjustable light source attached to the mirror. The adjustable light source has a flexible shaft that can adjust to illuminate the surrounding area as well as the area being reflected by the mirror. The invention has a rotating bracket, which connects a telescoping handle to the mirror. The adjustable light source has a battery pack and on/off switch that will be located and connected to the backside of the mirror. The invention has alternative embodiments, which include an added A/C adapter charger for the flexible light source. Another alternative embodiment is to integrate a digital camera into the invention. Varieties of alternative embodiments are depicted and vary in the light source used and the orientation of the light source with respect to the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Inventor: Samuel J. Pena
  • Publication number: 20080180780
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly suitable for use in a vehicle includes a bezel and a mirror element located behind the bezel and viewable through an opening formed by the bezel. A backplate, formed by molding and having a first pivot element integrally formed on a side thereof, is securely fixed to a rear portion of the mirror element by direct attachment at least at a central region of the mirror element. A support bracket for attaching the interior rearview mirror assembly to a portion of the interior cabin of a vehicle includes a second pivot element that connects with the first pivot element of the backplate to form a pivot joint that enables angular adjustment by the driver of the rearward field of view provided by the mirror element. Circuitry is supported by the backplate and a housings, principally serving as a cosmetic shroud, connects with the bezel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Patrick J. Lawlor, Niall R. Lynam, John P. Desmond, Patrick J. Dowling
  • Patent number: 7303295
    Abstract: A rear view mirror assembly including a housing and a mirror frame mounted in the housing. A pivot base sub-assembly is rotatably mounted in the housing and in mechanical communication with the mirror frame. A stored energy device is fixed to the housing and coupled to the pivot base sub-assembly. A control knob is in communication with the pivot base sub-assembly and adapted to control a scanning position of the mirror frame. The rear view mirror assembly could include a stationary base portion attached to a vehicle door and a mirror housing pivotable with respect to the stationary base portion, such that the mirror housing can be pivoted to view a desired portion of the rear view spectrum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventor: Irving D. Press
  • Patent number: 7021779
    Abstract: A rearview mirror having both a stationary mirror and a pivoting mirror assembly having a pivoting mirror. The stationary mirror and the pivoting mirror are mounted in proximity to one another within a mirror housing. The stationary mirror is fixed in its position within the mirror housing and is used for selectively viewing the road behind the vehicle. The pivoting mirror may be selectively swiveled by the driver, by sliding a lever in mechanical contact with the pivoting mirror assembly, thereby causing the pivoting mirror to form an angle with respect to the stationary mirror. The pivoting mirror is used for selectively viewing a passenger seated in the front passenger seat of the vehicle. The pivoting mirror is a safety feature which enables the driver to look at the passenger without having to divert his/her eyes away from the road in front of the vehicle or from the stationary mirror which provides a view of the road behind the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Donald David Goosens
  • Patent number: 6994438
    Abstract: An optical component casing (40) that houses a plurality of optical components including a reflection mirror (424) and disposes the plurality of optical components on a planarly defined illumination optical axis (L1) has a holder (81) that holds the reflection mirror (424) and a housing main body (401) that houses the other optical components. A bulging portion (816) bulging in an out-plane direction of the reflection mirror (424) is formed on a side of the holder (81) opposite to the side on which the reflection mirror (424) is attached, the bulging portion (816) pivotally moving on the inner surface of the housing main body (401) to rotate the holder (81) relative to the housing main body (401), where a rotation center (P) of the holder (81) is substantially coincident with an intersecting point (Q) of the illumination optical axis (L1) and a reflection surface (424A) of the reflection mirror (424).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Taisuke Uehara, Tomiyoshi Ushiyama, Shohei Fujisawa, Hirotatsu Okubo
  • Patent number: 6947191
    Abstract: An adjustment apparatus of a reflection mirror is disclosed, the apparatus comprising a holding base plate, an affixing block affixed on the holding base plate, at least one adjusting set, and a rotatable chassis affixed onto the affixing block, wherein the reflection mirror is affixed on the rotatable chassis. Moreover, the adjusting set comprises an adjusting screw and an adjusting spring. The adjusting screw is mounted onto the holding base plate and transpierces the holding base plate to fix an extending portion of the rotatable chassis. The adjusting spring associated with the adjusting screw supports an extending portion of the rotatable chassis to counterbalance the adjustments in the adjusting screw. When the adjusting screw is rotated in, the rotatable chassis rotates along a first direction and compresses the adjusting spring. When the adjusting screw is rotated out, the rotatable chassis rotates along an opposite direction to the first direction and stretches the adjusting spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Coretronic Corporation
    Inventors: Kuo-Wen Chen, Chih-Chung Kang
  • Patent number: 6857753
    Abstract: A viewing panel device, such as a mirror device used inside a motor vehicle for observing an infant in a rear-facing child safety seat secured to the rear seat of the vehicle. The viewing panel device may be employed in a plurality of attachment configurations, for use with a plurality of possible vehicle configurations. In one configuration, the top tether anchorage point included in newer vehicles as part of the LATCH anchorage point system is employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Blue Ridge International Products Company
    Inventor: Michael T. Kane
  • Patent number: 6840643
    Abstract: A mirror accessory is connectible by a police officer, e.g., to the lens end of a flashlight to enable viewing around corners, into rooms and other places without exposing the officer to hazard. The accessory includes a coupling ring engagable to the end of a flashlight and a mirror assembly connected to the ring by a hinge having plural detented stable positions. The mirror assembly also is movable about a swivel axis which is perpendicular to the hinge axis and is movable about the hinge axis. The mirror assembly has plural detented stable positions angularly about the swivel axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Gordon W. Clemmer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6799858
    Abstract: In order to electrically reverse the motorized pivoting actuator 11, used for example to adjust an exterior mirror with restricted angles of movement and to return the mirror into a working position after it has been pivoted by external means (either by hand, or as a result of a collision), engagement of the coupling actuator 16 is axially detached, as a result of an external pivoting of the coupling output drive 18, against an elastic restoring force and the coupling output drive is pivoted in relation to the coupling actuator, according to the effective torque. Thus, the coupling output drive is also brought out of its restricted trajectory, in such a way that the drive motor 13 can rotate the coupling actuator 16 freely, until the coupling actuator and the coupling output drive 18 reach a relative position, which has been predetermined in the construction concept in said position, and the coupling claws 28 re-engage in the recesses of the opposing pinion 16 or 18.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Oechsler Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Josef Boegelein
  • Patent number: 6796667
    Abstract: A tripod style mirror mount system for vehicles which secures the main mirror hole in a vehicle mount which is substantially in the shape of a socket subassembly that is secured to the vehicle and in which a spherical ball stud of the mirror pole is received and retained in a manner which allows the mirror to swivel relative to the body of the vehicle without being detached from the vehicle. First and second braces support the main mirror pole and maintain its position and prevent vibration. The terminal ends of the braces are anchored in joints by means of spherical ball studs which snap out when an obstruction is hit. Thereby the mirror assembly prevents being itself damaged or damaging the vehicle body when the mirror assembly inadvertently is struck by an obstacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Rosco Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 6793357
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventor: Alexander Stenzel
  • Patent number: 6793358
    Abstract: A stopper mechanism is not provided on a turning unit but is provided on a horizontal portion and a mirror assembly. Therefore, the turning unit can be used for a left outer mirror and a right outer mirror. The mirror assembly is provided with a projection of the stopper mechanism, and a base is provided with an arc groove of the stopper mechanism. Therefore, it is unnecessary to split the base into two pieces at the time of molding using a metal mold, and the base can be formed using the metal mold in a usual manner and thus, the cost of manufacturing becomes inexpensive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Ichikoh Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Ikuo Sakata
  • Patent number: 6764189
    Abstract: The invention relates to a swiveling device (11) of the support panel (12) of an exterior automobile mirror that can be adjusted by means of a motor. Said device functions in a stable manner. The panel (12) is fixed on a housing (13) in such a way that it can swivel, by means of four threaded rods (18—18.18′—18′). Said housing is to be mounted in a fixed position. A geared motor (17, 17′) is provided in said housing for each of the two swiveling directions (11), which are orthogonal in relation to each other. Said geared motors are kinematically connected to two threaded rods (24—24) by a toothed wheel (19, 19′) and by threaded bushings (24—24) which are also toothed on the outside. Said threaded rods (18—18) are diametrically opposite each other in relation to the coaxial axes of rotation of the wheels (19, 19′) and can be moved in opposite directions to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Oechsler AG
    Inventors: Wilhelm Wolf, Josef Boegelein, Wolfgang Seiboth, Heinrich Lang
  • Patent number: 6705738
    Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror of a passenger motor vehicle has a retaining foot which can be fastened to a vehicle body in the region of a mirror triangle by fastening means. In order to simplify the installation and removal of an exterior rearview mirror of this type, the fastening means have at least one retaining bracket which is arranged on the retaining foot and is configured in such a manner that it can be hooked in gripping from behind at an edge of an opening formed in the vehicle body in the region of the mirror triangle. The fastening means have at least one latch which is arranged on the retaining foot and is mounted on the retaining foot in a manner such that it can be adjusted between an unblocking position, in which the latch, with the retaining bracket hooked in at the edge, unblocks the edge, and a locking position, in which the latch, with the retaining bracket hooked in at the edge, grips behind the edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Volker Nickel, Alfred Schwarz, Robert Schwed
  • Patent number: 6698906
    Abstract: A combination magnetic pick up tool and inspection mirror includes a telescoping handle with a connection fixture to a magnetic pick up element. A separable mirror assembly may be attached to the magnetic pick up element. The tool thus may include a mirror assembly or a magnetic pick up element at the top section or distal end of the tool and may be easily converted from an inspection mirror to a pick up tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Lisle Corporation
    Inventor: Kevin L. Tally
  • Patent number: 6695456
    Abstract: In a vehicle door mirror assembly, an outer mirror-holder that holds a rearview mirror is mounted to an inner mirror-holder attached to a vehicle body side. Elastic tabs disposed at the outer mirror-holder elastically press an abutment portion of the inner mirror-holder. Thus, it is possible to maintain an excellent assembled state with respect to the inner mirror-holder and the outer mirror-holder, and to reduce loosening between the inner mirror-holder and the outer mirror-holder. It is therefore also possible to suppress vibration of the mirror with respect to the inner mirror-holder and to improve anti-chattering performance of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai-Rika-Denki-Seisakusho
    Inventor: Eiichi Hayakawa
  • Patent number: 6672731
    Abstract: A vehicular exterior rearview mirror blind spot viewing system includes an exterior rearview mirror assembly which enables moving the reflective mirror element to an alternate position for viewing of areas adjacent the vehicle which otherwise would be hidden in the driver's blind spot. The blind spot system includes a reflective mirror element mounted on a pivot member such as an electric actuator for adjusting the field of view of the mirror element for different drivers about an axis which is preferably centered on the mirror element. A support member has a joint spaced laterally of the axis and pivotally connected to the pivot member for moving the mirror element between a first rearward viewing position and a blind spot viewing position. A power source such as an electric motor is preferably mounted on the pivot member and is spaced from the support member joint, and includes a threaded member pivotally connected to the support member and driven by a gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Robert E. Schnell, David K. Willmore, Richard J. Weber
  • Patent number: 6655807
    Abstract: An extensible outside rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a spring-clamped slide mechanism that ensures a zero clearance fit between sliding components to avoid vibration. Bearing members between the sliding components reduce friction and provide a consistent reaction force to ensure smooth operation of an actuator mechanism which extends or retracts the mirror assembly along a support arm. The slide mechanism includes V-shaped guiderails vertically aligned with opposing V-shaped guiderails on the mounting bracket assembly. Rod-like bearing means are interposed between the opposing guiderail pairs. A cantilever clamp jaw with spring means biases one guiderail toward the other with a high spring force which provides superior rigidity and thus enhanced mirror image clarity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Delbar Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John S. McPherson, Thomas Culp, Cory Brechbill, Keith Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 6619955
    Abstract: A dental mirror having a planar surface encircled by a beveled perimeter. The mirror rotatively mounted upon a spherical support ball, whereby the dentist can continually maintain the correct angle of incidence to capture and reflect light beams from a light source. The planar surface continually being capable of pivoting in relationship to the pressure by the dentist to provide the smallest angle of incidence of reflecting light beams, which is vital to securing the greatest amount of illumination to the surgical area and also in avoiding unwanted distortion of any images in the work area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Venanzio Cardarelli
  • Publication number: 20030128447
    Abstract: An inspection device provides a mirror assembly having first and second mirrors connected with a hinge, the first mirror being movable relative to the second mirror, reflective surfaces of the mirrors being oriented to face one another when the first mirror is rotated toward the second mirror. A handle extends from the mirror assembly for the user to position the mirror assembly in the desired location and orientation. The image of an object is reflected in the first mirror and into the second mirror, the image being inverted or reversed in the first mirror and corrected in the second mirror, allowing for the user to easily read markings during the inspection. The mirrors may be of various shapes, sizes, and contours. A control on the handle allows remote mirror repositioning. A light source may be attached to the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Timothy S. Goodenough
  • Patent number: 6550926
    Abstract: A professional hand held probe device, having an optional telescoping feature. This probe as used in an inspection device can be of a fixed length or telescoping to any desired length. This probe has a frame assembly at the distal end that is remotely adjustable by a button on the handle section and is configured to accept mirrors of various diopters. This frame is also configured to accept light emitting diodes of different wave lengths witch includes ultra violet light. The light emitting diodes are energized by batteries in the handle, witch handles three AAA batteries supplying a voltage in excess of what is needed for the light emitting diodes, a regulating device is used to control the voltage, this enables the user to insert either alkaline or ni-cad batteries. provision for an outside power source is also provided for extended periods of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Leon Berger
  • Publication number: 20020171955
    Abstract: A professional hand held probe device, having an optional telescoping feature. This probe as used in an inspection device can be of a fixed length or telescoping to any desired length. This probe has a frame assembly at the distal end that is remotely adjustable by a button on the handle section and is configured to accept mirrors of various diopters. This frame is also configured to accept light emitting diodes of different wave lengths witch includes ultra violet light. The light emitting diodes are energized by batteries in the handle, witch handles three AAA batteries supplying a voltage in excess of what is needed for the light emitting diodes, a regulating device is used to control the voltage, this enables the user to insert either alkaline or ni-cad batteries provision for an outside power source is also provided for extended periods of use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Leon Berger
  • Patent number: 6478435
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a mirror. A body is adapted to couple to and support the mirror in multiple of orientations to allow the mirror to reflect light from and to multiple areas. Multiple tabs are coupled to the body and adapted to interfere with adjacent portions of a car seat, to which the body is mounted, and a rear ledge of a car to inhibit the body from moving relative to the car seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: The First Years Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Monahan, Rene Polin, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020154426
    Abstract: A mirror arrangement for a vehicle having a functional device, control apparatus, and a mode switch located in a mirror housing is provided. An activation device is provided to activate the mode switch for maintenance of the functional device. Various embodiments and related methods are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventors: Heinrich Lang, Michael Witzke
  • Patent number: 6467919
    Abstract: A mirror construction includes an interior rearview mirror housing having a socket, and includes a mirror mount having a ball section that angularly and adjustably engages the socket to form a ball connection. The ball section has a radially open portion permitting wiring to be laid laterally into the ball section to facilitate assembly. A wedge fits in the open portion for holding the open portion so that the ball connection cannot distort and collapse over time. The mount includes a window for snap-attachment of an electrical connector for the wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne Rumsey, Timothy S. DeVries, John W. Carter, Jason Hallack
  • Patent number: 6390635
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Peter J. Whitehead, Steven G. Hoek, Michiel P. van de Ven
  • Patent number: 6369702
    Abstract: A rearview mirror for motor vehicles includes a mirror housing, a mirror pane mounted in the housing, a support structure for attaching the mirror housing to the vehicle, and a pivoting connection disposed between the mirror housing and the support structure. The pivoting connection includes at least one safety catch which retains the mirror housing in an operating position relative to the support structure. The safety catch is releasable upon the approach of the mirror housing to an obstruction to thereby allow the mirror housing to pivot relative to the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventor: Heinrich Lang
  • Patent number: 6354708
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a mirror. A body is adapted to couple to and support the mirror in multiple of orientations to allow the mirror to reflect light from and to multiple areas. Multiple tabs are coupled to the body and adapted to interfere with adjacent portions of a car seat, to which the body is mounted, and a rear ledge of a car to inhibit the body from moving relative to the car seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: The First Years Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Monahan, Rene Polin, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020027726
    Abstract: A ball and toggle assembly for a prismatic interior rearview mirror of a vehicle comprises a ball and body member and a toggle member. The ball and body member and the toggle member are separately formed from separate polymeric materials and joined together. The flexural moduli of the separate materials are selected such that the ball and body member is substantially rigid while the toggle member is flexible. The toggle member is preferably molded over the body member and secured thereto via a mechanical interconnection of the toggle member material to the body member material. Preferably, the ball and body member comprises an engineering polymer, such as a glass-filled thermoplastic material, while the toggle member comprises a polyolefin, such as a homopolymer or co-polymer polypropylene material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: March 7, 2002
    Applicant: Donnelly Corporation, a corporation of the State of Michigan
    Inventors: Ralph A. Spooner, Jerry L. Beck
  • Patent number: 6315422
    Abstract: A rear and side view mirror device for allowing one to inspect one's ear for certain buildup of wax and dirt. The rear and side view mirror device includes an elongate support assembly including an elongate support member having ends; and also includes connectors being pivotally attached to the elongate support assembly; and further includes mirror members being pivotally attached to the connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Justin S. Letlow
  • Patent number: 6315421
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror for motor vehicles has a mirror support, a mirror housing, and a ball joint having a ball head, wherein mirror housing and the mirror support are connected to one another by the ball joint. At least one electrically operated component is mounted in the mirror housing and has an electrical line connected to a power source for supplying electric current to the at least one electrically operated component. The ball head has at least one slot located laterally in a side of the ball head. The slot allows lateral passage of the electric line into the ball head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Reitter & Schefenacker GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Robert Apfelbeck, Jens Mertens