With Rotation Of Mirror About Perpendicular Axes Patents (Class 359/876)
  • Patent number: 11835699
    Abstract: A focusing device for focusing a laser beam in a target area. The focusing device includes a paraboloid mirror configured to widen the laser beam; an ellipsoid mirror or a hyperboloid mirror configured to focus the widened laser beam at a focal position within the target area; and a movement device. The movement device is configured to move the ellipsoid mirror or the hyperboloid mirror relative to the paraboloid mirror, or together with the paraboloid mirror, to change the focal position within the target area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: TRUMPF LASERSYSTEMS FOR SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING GMBH
    Inventors: Martin Lambert, Tolga Ergin
  • Patent number: 11828315
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vision adjustment mechanism, comprising a first part and a second part pivotably arranged thereto. The first part has a trough, into which a head part at least partially complementary to said trough can be inserted, forming at least one clamping gap between the trough and the head part. The second part has at least one clamping part, which is formed to be complementary to the clamping gap and can be arranged in the latter such that the second part is fixed to the first part to be pivotable thereto. The fixing means is formed in such a way that it biases the head part in the direction towards the first part for fixing the two parts, and it fixes the second part against rotation relative to the first part. The invention also relates to a mirror unit having such a vision adjustment mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: MCi (Mirror Controls International) Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Paulus Gerardus Maria Van Stiphout, Anne Catharina Martha Bekker, Alex Lorier, Tom Adriaan Jansen
  • Patent number: 11493604
    Abstract: A light detection and ranging receiver includes a chassis and a first mirror assembly. The first mirror assembly includes a bracket detachably mounted on the chassis, a first mirror mount configured to hold a first mirror for receiving and deflecting a light beam to a photodetector, a first set of elastic connectors attached to both the bracket and the first mirror mount to couple the first mirror mount to the bracket, and a first set of screws extending through the bracket and in contact with the first mirror mount, where the first set of screws are adjustable to change a distance and an orientation of the first mirror mount with respect to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: Beijing Voyager Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Anan Pan, Henghui Jiang
  • Patent number: 11487127
    Abstract: This document relates to an optical device that uses a mirror scanning system as part of a display engine, where images generated by the mirror scanning system can be propagated through a waveguide or other such optical assembly to a user's eye. The mirror scanning system can utilize a magnetic assembly, where the mirror of the scanning system can be held in place magnetically instead of using support structures such as torsion bars or beams. Actuators can then be actuated to control the tilt of the mirror by way of magnetic fields, providing a greater field of movement for the optical element and enabling a spherical scan area to be produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventor: Tapani Matias Alasaarela
  • Patent number: 11427126
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rear view mirror assembly for a vehicle comprising a housing configured for mounting to a vehicle; one or more mirror units disposed in the housing, wherein each mirror unit comprises a reflective mirror element and a mirror mount for securing the mirror element within the housing, wherein at least one mirror unit is an overhead mirror unit that is positioned to allow an operator in the vehicle to see an area that is behind the operator and above the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: LUCERIX INTERNATIONAL COMPANY
    Inventor: Pasquale Castelmezzano
  • Patent number: 11391911
    Abstract: Disclosed is an adjustable mirror mount that is capable of adjusting a mirror in two axes with a high degree of precision and low cross-coupling. Long horizontal and vertical adjustment arms are used to allow the precision adjustment about both a horizontal axis and a vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Rodney C. Harris
  • Patent number: 11084425
    Abstract: The invention relates to an actuator mechanism for adjusting at least one angular position of a mirror element in an exterior mirror device for a motor vehicle. The actuator mechanism comprises a base element and a mirror element movably coupled with the base element, which comprises a mirror support for supporting a mirror surface. The mirror element is rotatable relative to the base element about at least a first pivoting axis with the aid of a first electric motor provided in the actuator mechanism, which extends in a longitudinal direction that is substantially transverse to a supporting surface of the mirror support. What can be elegantly facilitated by this, for instance also in the case of a relatively small mirror surface that is only a few centimeters wide and/or is only a few centimeters long, is that, as seen from a direction in which during use the mirror surface is being viewed by a driver, such electric motor does not protrude, or hardly protrudes, next to, above and/or below the mirror surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: MCi (Mirror Controls International) Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Stefan Fritz Brouwer, Paulus Gerardus Maria van Stiphout
  • Patent number: 11014499
    Abstract: A back view mirror device for a vehicle, an automatically adjustable back view mirror apparatus for a vehicle and a method for automatically adjusting position of a back view mirror for a vehicle are provided. The back view mirror device includes: a back view mirror body; a translation actuating device configured to drive the back view mirror body to translate and position the back view mirror body in a translating direction; and a rotating actuating device configured to drive the back view mirror body to rotate and position the back view mirror body in a rotating direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Zhanquan Yu
  • Patent number: 10913395
    Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly configured for mounting at an exterior portion of a vehicle includes a mounting arm configured for attachment at the vehicle, a mirror head disposed at an end of the mounting arm and movable relative to the mounting arm, and an electrically operated actuator operable to move the mirror head relative to the mounting arm. The mirror head includes a mirror reflective element that, when the actuator is electrically operated, moves in tandem with the mirror head. The actuator, with the mounting arm attached at the exterior portion of the vehicle, and when the actuator is electrically operated, moves the mirror head relative to the mounting arm to vertically and horizontally adjust a rearward field of view of a driver of the vehicle who is viewing the mirror reflective element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Darryl P. De Wind, Eric S. Deuel, Justin E. Sobecki, Joseph R. Mambourg, Keith D. Foote, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 10780798
    Abstract: A seat component adjustment actuator (1) comprises a housing, an electric motor (5), and a gearing (10) coupled to the electric motor (5) and comprising at least three worm transmission stages (11-16). A first worm transmission stage (11, 12) comprises a first worm (11) and a first worm gear (12) engaged with the first worm (11). A third worm transmission stage (15, 16) comprises a third worm (15) and a third worm gear (16) engaged with the third worm (15). The first worm (11) is supported in the housing such that the first worm (11) is rotatable about an input rotation axis. The third worm gear (16) is supported in the housing such that the third worm gear (16) is rotatable about an output rotation axis which is transverse to the input rotation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Schukra Gerätebau GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Falster, Klaus Junker, Gunter Maierhofer
  • Patent number: 10007478
    Abstract: A control system for a vehicle having a seat with a first moveable portion and an adjustment actuator coupled with the first moveable seat portion includes a voice input device, a touchscreen input device, and a controller in communication with the adjustment actuator, the voice input device, and the touchscreen input device. The controller has a processor programmed to interpret a first adjustment command from one of a voice command received from the voice input device and a manual command received from the touchscreen input device, carry out a first seat adjustment by causing the adjustment actuator to move the first moveable seat portion according to the first adjustment command, and to present information related to the first adjustment command on the touchscreen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Tony Wang, Frank Wu, Rose Tong
  • Patent number: 9963075
    Abstract: An actuator assembly configured to adjust a viewing axis of a vehicle mirror is disclosed. The assembly comprises a toggle switch and a pivot plate rotationally coupled to the toggle switch proximate a first axis. The assembly further comprises a support bracket rotationally coupled to the pivot plate along a second axis and rotationally coupled to the toggle switch along the first axis. The support bracket is configured to support the vehicle mirror, and a rotation of the toggle switch is configured to move the pivot plate relative to the support bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: GENTEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jason D. Hallack, Ulrich A. Kuester
  • Patent number: 9827909
    Abstract: An exterior rear view mirror of an exterior rear view mirror assembly for a motor vehicle is described. The exterior rear view mirror includes: an exterior rear view mirror housing, a base bracket, at least partly accommodated in the exterior rear view mirror housing, a frame with walls, which surround an opening arranged on the rear side of the exterior rear view mirror housing, for a mirror glass, and an adjusting device, attached to the base bracket, for the mirror glass. The frame is attached to the adjusting device. In addition, a process for assembly of an exterior rear view mirror of this type is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: SMR Patents S.à.r.l.
    Inventors: Istvan Szmolenszki, Andreas Herrmann
  • Patent number: 9669755
    Abstract: An active vision system includes an image capture device for capturing images in a region exterior of a vehicle and a headlamp control unit for controlling a vehicle headlamp beam for illuminating an environment exterior of a vehicle. The headlamp control unit is configured to selectively illuminate between making a path of travel of a road visible to a driver of the vehicle and making the region exterior of the vehicle visible for capturing images by the image capture device. The headlamp control unit utilizes a duty cycle for controlling a first cycle time that the headlamp beam illuminates the path of travel for making the road visible to the driver and for controlling a second cycle time that the headlamp beam makes the captured region visible for capturing images by the image capture device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Sanjeev M. Naik, Wende Zhang, Shuqing Zeng
  • Patent number: 9499110
    Abstract: An automotive instrument specifying unit of an automotive instrument operating device specifies a group of automotive instruments on the basis of the direction of gaze of an occupant detected by a gaze direction detector, and specifies one automotive instrument from among the specified group of automotive instruments on the basis of the up/down direction selected by up/down direction selecting unit when the up/down direction selecting unit has been operated in a state in which the group of automotive instruments has been specified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Akio Takahashi, Shinsuke Ueda
  • Patent number: 9227837
    Abstract: A sensor includes: a substrate, a microelectromechanical structure, and a decoupling structure. The decoupling structure is anchored on the substrate, and the microelectromechanical structure is anchored on the decoupling structure. The microelectromechanical structure and the decoupling structure are movable in relation to the substrate. The decoupling structure is situated between the microelectromechanical structure and the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventor: Jochen Reinmuth
  • Patent number: 9022588
    Abstract: A mirror surface angle adjusting device includes: a pivot plate (10) which supports a mirror (6) and is attached to a holder (9) pivotably three-dimensionally on a pivot shaft (76); a bracket (8) disposed on a vehicle body; a mirror tilting drive section (11) contained between the bracket (8) and the holder (9) attached to the bracket (8); an operation shaft (44A, 44B) of the mirror tilting drive section (11), the operation shaft penetrating through the holder (9) and being connected to the pivot plate (10); a detection rod (101A, 101B) which moves following the pivot plate (10); an angle detection section (100) which detects a tilt angle of the pivot plate (10); a pivot depressed portion (80) into which the pivot shaft can be press-fitted; and a gear positioning rib (69) provided on an inner wall of the holder (9) to position the mirror tilting drive section (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Mitsuba Corporation
    Inventors: Masaru Chino, Tetsuya Murakoshi, Hiroshi Morishita, Osamu Ichikawa
  • Patent number: 8915601
    Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a mounting portion mounted to a side of a vehicle, a mirror head portion, a reflective element fixedly attached at the mirror head portion, and an actuator operable to impart pivotal movement of the mirror head portion relative to the mounting portion and about a generally horizontal pivot axis and a generally vertical pivot axis to adjust the mirror head portion and the reflective element relative to the side of the vehicle to which the mounting portion is mounted. The actuator may include a tilting drive system for tilting the mirror head portion about the generally horizontal pivot axis and the actuator may include a rotating drive system for rotating the mirror head portion about the generally vertical pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Joseph C. Snow
  • Patent number: 8905560
    Abstract: A magnifying spot mirror releasably attachable to a flat surface includes a circular concave mirror plate mounted on the front surface of a lenticular-shaped support body which has a convex, arcuately curved rear surface from which protrude satellite suction cups that have circular bases which lie in a convex plane and are radially spaced equidistant from the center of the support body and an optional center suction cup. Applying finger pressure to the center of the mirror causes a pair of centrally located suction cups and/or the optional center cup to hermetically grip a flat surface with the mirror parallel to the surface. Pressing on the mirror at a location offset from the center exerts a tensional unsealing force on radially inwardly located suction cups, and compressional sealing forces on outer satellite suction cups, thus re-positioning the mirror at a different orientation angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Zlatko Zadro
  • Publication number: 20140347758
    Abstract: A support system for holding solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes a frame for supporting the mirrors. The system includes a rib attached to the frame. The system includes at least a first roller engaged with the rib along which the rib moves as the frame moves. A method for moving a frame supporting solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes the steps of moving the frame on a roller guided by a rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a first position. There is the step of moving the frame on the roller guided by the rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a second position. A roller for engaging with a rib attached to a frame that holds mirrors of a solar trough system. An apparatus for cleaning solar mirrors on a frame of a solar trough system. A method for cleaning mirrors on a framework of a solar trough system. A rib for a frame that holds solar mirrors of a solar trough system which engages with a roller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: WERNER EXTRUSION SOLUTIONS LLC
    Inventors: Craig Roy Werner, John Funai
  • Patent number: 8876077
    Abstract: A spherical orienting device includes a base, first and second actuation shafts, an orientable device, an inner member, a middle member, and an outer member. The first and second actuation shafts are rotatably held by the base for rotary actuation about first and second actuation axes, respectively, which intersect orthogonally at a spherical center of rotation. The orientable device is supported by first and second revolute support joints which are disposed for rotation about an orientation axis of the orientable device and a support axis, respectively. The inner member is fixed to the first actuation shaft and linked to the second support joint. The middle member is inwardly linked to the first support joint and outwardly linked to a middle revolute joint disposed for rotation about a linkage axis. The outer member is fixed to the second actuation shaft and linked to the middle revolute joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Patrick Maillard
  • Patent number: 8845113
    Abstract: A drive for a component to be adjusted, in particular for an adjustable automotive vehicle mirror, having a housing which can be mounted on a stationary structure and has a central axis for receiving drive elements, and having an element which encompasses the housing at least partially and is connected to a carrier for the component. The encompassing element with the carrier is disposed pivotably relative to the housing. About the central axis, a pin-like sleeve for guiding through a mounting element is disposed in the housing and has a plate spring-like projection for support on the base of the housing. The plate spring-like projection forms a means for uniform distribution of the tension force caused by the mounting element for mounting on the stationary structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Magna Auteca AG
    Inventors: Bernhard Schadler, Hermann Dornhofer
  • Publication number: 20140285913
    Abstract: A moveable mirror assembly can be used in connection with a case for a portable electronic device. The assembly can include a mirror housing and a mirror positioned within the mirror housing to redirect light to a portable electronic device within the case. The assembly can also include a rotational member coupled with the mirror housing and the case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: RHP Multimedia Corp.
    Inventor: John Palmeri
  • Publication number: 20140268379
    Abstract: A mirror bracket supports a mirror. A mirror bracket includes a base and an attachment member for attaching the base to a vehicle. A member moves relative to the base. The member is movable in a rotational or linear direction. The member is urged opposite to the rotational or linear direction. The member includes a mirror receiver where the mirror is coupled to the member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: QUADRATEC, INC.
    Inventor: Thomas N. KELLY
  • Patent number: 8752969
    Abstract: The mirror has a base, inner stage, reflector, controller, and mechanical subsystems pivotally supporting stage and reflector: subsystem #1, the stage (about one rotation axis, relative to the base); subsystem #2, the reflector (about another axis, relative to the stage). Stage and reflector each rotate on respective jewel, ceramic or other refractory bearings. Controller establishes stage/base and reflector/stage angles. Subsystems include respective bearings. The method includes (1) using the two-axis mechanism to receive, and measure an incident angle of, incident rays from an external object; (2) then using that mechanism to direct a radiation beam from a laser source toward the external object, responsive to incident rays. Optionally step (1) operates the mirror at peak acceleration, or minimum response time, as function of mirror thickness; and provides two- to three-millimeter mirror thickness. Optionally step (2) directs the beam to disrupt object function or impair object structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Arete Associates
    Inventors: David M. Kane, Kelly Hillman, Christopher Hornberg, John Hunt, Andrew E. Paul
  • Publication number: 20140158868
    Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatuses for rotational viewing systems for optical and/or other measuring equipment are disclosed. The rotational viewing device includes a housing having an interface end opposite a viewing end. The housing has one or more bends between the interface end and the viewing end, an internal mirror, and one or more rotatable joints or connections allowing at least part of the housing to be rotated in a plane parallel or orthogonal to an optical axis of an apparatus to which the viewing device interfaces at the interface end. The rotational viewing device also includes an eyepiece, located at or near the viewing end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventor: Guillermo Jorge Keller
  • Patent number: 8746917
    Abstract: A fan base and illuminated mirror apparatus for use in cooling a user's neck and torso while the user is positioned adjacent the apparatus includes a base member having upper and lower portions. A fan member is pivotally coupled to the base member and selectively movable between upward and downward directed configurations. A length adjustable rod is coupled to the upper portion of the base member and extending upwardly therefrom, the rod being selectively movable between expanded and retracted configurations. A mirror is operatively coupled to an upper end of the rod such that the mirror is vertically displaced from the fan member, the mirror being movable between straight and tilted configurations. The apparatus includes a light coupled to the mirror and electrically connected to a power source, the light configured to illuminate the mirror when energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Barbara D. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 8702254
    Abstract: An adjustable mirror mechanism includes a first connection section, a mirror lens carrier or support having a second connection section receiving and/or engaging the first connection section, and a mirror housing having a third connection section receiving and/or engaging the second connection section of the mirror lens carrier. The first connection section and/or the mirror lens carrier are fastened and/or secured to the mirror housing, and the mirror lens carrier is configured to receive a mirror lens. In some embodiments, the mirror lens carrier engages the rim of the mirror housing for added stability on one or more sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Rosco, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Englander, Julian Serer
  • Patent number: 8672496
    Abstract: A mirror ball adapted to engage the socket of a ceiling mounted electric light fixture in order to be suspended and powered therefrom. A tubular stem having a proximal portion threaded in the manner of an Edision screw is provided extending downward from the fixture to a lower base. A lightweight mirrored sphere or globe having a void through its (vertical) polar axis is rotatably engaged on the stem and retained in place by the lower base which houses power systems, a controller and a motor engaged to an annular gear at the lower pole of the mirrored sphere in order to slowly rotate the globe. A power supply is used to reduce line voltage to 12 v DC to drive the motor and operate one or more LED lighting elements directed at the mirrored surface and mounted at the ends of one or more arms radiating from the lower housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Mona O'Kane
  • Patent number: 8602575
    Abstract: An exterior mirror for mounting on a vehicle with a mirror base and a mirror head attached to the mirror base is suggested, whereby the mirroring element is rigidly connected to the housing of the mirror head. The mirror head and mirror base are rotatably connected to one another by means of a ball joint. The adjustment of the mirroring element is done by two bars, of which the length can be adjusted by actuators, which bars are arranged between the mirror head and mirror base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: SMR Patents S.a.r.l.
    Inventor: Raimund Negel
  • Patent number: 8451332
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror casing, a reflective element and a mounting assembly for adjustably mounting the mirror assembly at an interior portion of a vehicle. The mounting assembly has a mounting base and a mounting arm adjustably mounted to the mounting base via a base joint. The reflective element is pivotally adjustable relative to the mounting arm via a mirror pivot joint. The base joint allows for adjustment of the mounting arm in generally a single plane and about a generally horizontal pivot axis when the mirror assembly is normally mounted in the vehicle, with the base joint limiting adjustment of the mounting arm about non-generally horizontal pivot axes. The mirror pivot joint allows for pivotal adjustment of a rearward field of view of the reflective element by a driver of the vehicle when the mirror assembly is normally mounted in the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald S. Rawlings
  • Publication number: 20130042856
    Abstract: A system for positioning a heliostat mirror or a solar collector includes a support structure, a pivot mechanism adapted to pivot the heliostat mirror or solar collector about a first generally horizontal axis and about a second axis generally perpendicular to the first axis, the pivot mechanism is attached to a rear side of the heliostat mirror or solar collector and attached to the support structure. The system also includes a first cable drive actuator having a first motor, driving a first cable spool, and a first cable attached at a proximal end to the first cable spool and attached at a distal end to the heliostat mirror or solar collector, and a second cable drive actuator having a second motor driving a second cable spool, and a second cable attached at a proximal end to the second cable spool and attached to the heliostat mirror or solar collector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Jon Switkes, Ross Koningstein, John S. Fitch, Tamsyn Peronel Waterhouse, Jung Shin Gwon
  • Publication number: 20120236384
    Abstract: An optical device includes a base made of silicon and including a movable portion provided with a light reflecting portion having light reflectivity and capable of oscillating around a oscillation axis, at least one connection portion that extends from the movable portion, and a support portion that supports the connection portion, and a stray light suppression layer provided on a surface of the base and having a function of suppressing light reflection. In a plan view in which the base is viewed in a thickness direction thereof, the stray light suppression layer is provided on portions other than an edge of the connection portion, an edge that connects an edge of the movable portion to the edge of the connection portion, and an edge that connects an edge of the support portion to the edge of the connection portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yasushi MIZOGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20120230667
    Abstract: A mirror retention structure to reduce rebounding of a sub-mirror and to prevent shifting of the mirror-down position. The mirror retention structure includes, a main mirror retention frame that retains a main mirror, a sub-mirror retention frame that retains a sub-mirror and is axially supported at the main mirror retention frame, and a receiving pin that abuts against the sub-mirror retention frame and sets an angle of the sub-mirror at a mirror-down position, wherein the sub-mirror retention frame is provided with a first abutting portion that touches against the receiving pin at the mirror-down position, and a second abutting portion, at a different position from the first abutting portion, that touches against the receiving pin at a position prior to the mirror-down position in a transition from a mirror-up position to the mirror-down position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: NIKON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Tomoki CHIJIIWA
  • Publication number: 20120218657
    Abstract: A mirror surface angle adjusting device includes: a pivot plate (10) which supports a mirror (6) and is attached to a holder (9) pivotably three-dimensionally on a pivot shaft (76); a bracket (8) disposed on a vehicle body; a mirror tilting drive section (11) contained between the bracket (8) and the holder (9) attached to the bracket (8); an operation shaft (44A, 44B) of the mirror tilting drive section (11), the operation shaft penetrating through the holder (9) and being connected to the pivot plate (10); a detection rod (101A, 101B) which moves following the pivot plate (10); an angle detection section (100) which detects a tilt angle of the pivot plate (10); a pivot depressed portion (80) into which the pivot shaft can be press-fitted; and a gear positioning rib (69) provided on an inner wall of the holder (9) to position the mirror tilting drive section (42).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Masaru Chino, Tetsuya Murakoshi, Hiroshi Morishita, Osamu Ichikawa
  • Publication number: 20120162801
    Abstract: Headwear wearable by a user is provided having rearview mirrors mounted thereon or incorporated therein via robust mounting structures or mechanisms. The rearview mirrors can be attached to the headwear such that the mirrors are movable between a stowed or collapsed configuration in which the mirror is at least partially hidden from the user's view and a deployed configuration in which a viewing surface of the mirror is positioned to provide a rear view image to the user. The headwear may be goggles, helmets or other structures wearable on the head of a user. Rearview mirrors mountable to headwear are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: William J. Tronvig
  • Patent number: 8179582
    Abstract: A micro electro mechanical device includes an inner frame provided with a movable part and an outer frame provided in a circumference of the inner frame. The outer frame has a fixing part fixed by a joining material. A first torsion bar is provided between the outer frame and the inner frame so as to swingably support the inner frame on the outer frame. A first opening is formed in the outer frame in a vicinity of the first torsion bar. The first opening is positioned between the fixing part of the outer frame and the first torsion bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Omori, Osamu Tsuboi, Hiromitsu Soneda
  • Patent number: 8174230
    Abstract: A switch section includes a common terminal connected to a terminal at one end of each of a pair of motors, a first terminal connected to a terminal at the other end of one of the motors and a second terminal connected to a terminal at the other end of the other of the motors, and three-contact switches each including one common contact and two switching contacts. In the switch section two switches corresponding to one direction selected from the up and down directions form a switch group, at least one switch corresponding to the other direction selected from the up and down directions is provided, two switches corresponding to one direction selected from the left and right directions form a switch group, and at least one switch corresponding to the other direction selected from the left and right directions is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryuji Ataka, Tomoaki Tsuchiya
  • Patent number: 8127641
    Abstract: A device to adjust the orientation of a mirror of a motorcar includes a body to accommodate a first and a second electric motor and a first and a second gear driven by first and second motor respectively. Gear rods are formed as circular arc sections and the body accommodates means to resiliently press the first and second gear rod against the first and second gears, respectively, eliminating relative movement between the gearing of the gear rods and the gears in operation conditions. Each of the gears include a safety clutch, allowing the gears to slip in overload conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: SMR Patents S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Juergen Tilg, Daniel Joseph Flynn
  • Patent number: 8113672
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an outer mirror which prevents the whistle noise without the rotation of the mirror assembly being prevented. In order to achieve the above object, an outer mirror which includes a mirror base provided on a vehicle body; a shaft portion fixed to the mirror base; a mirror assembly rotatably mounted on the mirror base around the shaft portion used as a rotational axis; a windshield member to occlude a gap between the mirror base and the mirror assembly, in which the shaft portion includes a mounting seat attached to the mirror base; a shaft body provided uprightly on the mounting seat, the mirror assembly includes a housing having an opening toward the mirror base and the shaft body is inserted into the opening; and a mirror attached to the housing is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Murakami Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiko Itoh, Kenji Ichikawa, Hiroyuki Kajiyama
  • Publication number: 20120033315
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a scanner motor, including: a rotor case fixed on a rotation shaft to be rotated; a polygon mirror mounted on a top of the rotor case; and a bonding part formed between the rotor case and the polygon mirror to fix the polygon mirror on the rotor case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sang Jae Song, Song Bon Oh
  • Publication number: 20120026616
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror casing, a reflective element and a mounting assembly for adjustably mounting the mirror assembly at an interior portion of a vehicle. The mounting assembly has a mounting base and a mounting arm adjustably mounted to the mounting base via a base joint. The reflective element is pivotally adjustable relative to the mounting arm via a mirror pivot joint. The base joint allows for adjustment of the mounting arm in generally a single plane and about a generally horizontal pivot axis when the mirror assembly is normally mounted in the vehicle, with the base joint limiting adjustment of the mounting arm about non-generally horizontal pivot axes. The mirror pivot joint allows for pivotal adjustment of a rearward field of view of the reflective element by a driver of the vehicle when the mirror assembly is normally mounted in the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Donald S. Rawlings
  • Publication number: 20120014009
    Abstract: Rear view mirrors for use with a brim of a hat. Telescopic arms extend from the brim and are pivotable and swivelable from a central ball joint and have rear view mirrors disposed on the distal ends thereof that are pivotable and swivelable on the ball joints that transition from the distal end of the telescopic arms and the rear view mirrors. The rear view mirrors and telescopic arms are articulated by the user to provide the desired field of vision behind the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventor: James Prendamano
  • Patent number: 8016438
    Abstract: A spherical mounting assembly for mounting an optical element allows for rotational motion of an optical surface of the optical element only. In that regard, an optical surface of the optical element does not translate in any of the three perpendicular translational axes. More importantly, the assembly provides adjustment that may be independently controlled for each of the three mutually perpendicular rotational axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Jay L. Meyer, Glenn C. Messick, Carl A. Nardell, Martin J. Hendlin
  • Patent number: 8000014
    Abstract: Longitudinally adjacent plane mirrors (106-114) are pivotally interconnected in a columnar array (56) by non-stretching linkages (120) which constrain movement of the mirrors such that their normal vectors (115) remain parallel. Pivotable couplings (122, 124) in two mirrors permit movement of the mirrors with respect to mutually perpendicular axes (x, y) and prevent movement of the mirrors with respect to a third axis (z). Two actuators (117A, 117B) coupled to one of the pivotable couplings controllably move a selected mirror with respect to the mutually perpendicular axes (x, y). A first frame (116) couples the mirror columns together so that movement of the selected mirror moves all the mirrors in unison. The actuators controllably move the mirrors to orient the normal vectors such that the mirrors specularly reflect incident light in a preselected direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: The University of British Columbia
    Inventors: Lorne A. Whitehead, Jon David Edward Scott
  • Publication number: 20110194203
    Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a mounting portion mounted to a side of a vehicle, a mirror head portion, a reflective element fixedly attached at the mirror head portion, and an actuator operable to impart pivotal movement of the mirror head portion relative to the mounting portion and about a generally horizontal pivot axis and a generally vertical pivot axis to adjust the mirror head portion and the reflective element relative to the side of the vehicle to which the mounting portion is mounted. The actuator may include a tilting drive system for tilting the mirror head portion about the generally horizontal pivot axis and the actuator may include a rotating drive system for rotating the mirror head portion about the generally vertical pivot axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Joseph C. Snow
  • Publication number: 20110051273
    Abstract: Headwear wearable by a user is provided having rearview mirrors mounted thereon or incorporated therein via robust mounting structures or mechanisms. The rearview mirrors can be attached to the headwear such that the mirrors are movable between a stowed or collapsed configuration in which the mirror is at least partially hidden from the user's view and a deployed configuration in which a viewing surface of the mirror is positioned to provide a rear view image to the user. The headwear may be goggles, helmets or other structures wearable on the head of a user. Rearview mirrors mountable to headwear are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: William J. Tronvig
  • Patent number: 7885743
    Abstract: An electric mirror control device provided with a proportionality constant conversion means for converting the proportionality constant of a detection output voltage to the angle of a mirror surface to be positive or negative. When an up-down sensor and a right-left sensor for detecting the angle of the mirror surface have a plurality of specifications, each of which has a different proportionality constant of the detection output voltage to the angle of the mirror surface, controller determines the specification of the angle sensors based on whether the proportionality constant of the detection output voltage output via the proportionality constant conversion means is positive or negative, and controls an up-down motor or a right-left motor in accordance with the determined specification stored in advance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiki Noro, Kenji Shioiri
  • Patent number: 7862189
    Abstract: A mirror device for observing an infant in a rear-facing child safety car seat secured to the rear seat of a vehicle including a front seating area, a rear seating area, and a rear seat within the rear seating area, the rear seat having an upwardly-extending headrest. The mirror device includes a mirror and backing assembly having a rear surface, and an attachment connected to the rear surface for attaching the mirror device to the headrest. The attachment in turn includes a swivel device having a concavity element including a first bowl-like structure having a concave working surface; and a corresponding convexity element including a second bowl-like structure having a convex working surface configured to engage the concave working surface. The concavity and convexity elements are frictionally maintained in a desired adjusted position with reference to each other, while at the same time permitting manual adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: BRICA, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence O. Freese
  • Publication number: 20100296189
    Abstract: The invention is related to a rear view mirror assembly with a least two parts out of the group of part as: mirror frame, mirror base, mirror housing, mirror bezel, mirror glass, mirror lighting means, actuator, that must be connected during assembly process with at least one retention latch. This retention latch comprises a circular hood and a rectangular arm formed in a first part and to be inserted into an opening and shifted along a slot in a second part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: SMR Patent S.a.r.I.
    Inventors: Andrew Lettis, Charlie Spencer, Richard Gould