With Mirror Supporting Column Or Sliding Adjustment Patents (Class 359/881)
  • Patent number: 12030434
    Abstract: A mirror extension arm for a wide-load truck is an apparatus that allows a driver of the wide-load truck to have a wider peripheral vision range and eliminates blind spots. The apparatus includes an extension tube, a slide bar, a mounting spindle, at least one locking clamp, and a fastening mechanism. The extension bar and the slide bar offset a secondary side mirror from a corresponding side of the wide-load truck. The secondary side mirror is preferably positioned beside an existing side mirror. The extension bar connects with a bracket of the existing side mirror, and the slide bar varies the distance of the secondary side mirror and existing side mirror. The mounting spindle upholds the secondary side mirror. The at least one locking clamp attaches the extension bar with the bracket of the existing side mirror. The fastening mechanism locks the slide bar along the extension tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2024
    Inventor: Travis L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 11815682
    Abstract: A combiner assembly for a ceiling mounted projection head up display system for an aircraft cabin has an optical combiner (10), and a support mechanism (30, 32, 35) for supporting the optical combiner to be movable between an operational position and a stowage position, above the user, and laterally displaced, and facing an underside of the projector assembly by means of a lateral component of movement and a rotation component to reach the stowage position under the projector assembly (20). Such a two axis movement can make better use of limited headroom in cabins such as those of small aircraft, by enabling a stowage location offset to one side of the line of sight, while providing sufficient clearance from the user's head and from cabin structure, during the movement and/or when in the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: BAE Systems PLC
    Inventors: Samuel William Harris, Russell Christopher West
  • Patent number: 11718231
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an assembly for attaching a rear view mirror to a vehicle. The assembly comprises an intermediate member configured to slide with respect to an arm that extends outwardly from a mirror base, a proximal end of the intermediate member being configured to interlock with the arm such that the arm and intermediate member become rigidly joined. The assembly also comprises a mirror head support configured to slide with respect to the intermediate member, the mirror head support being configured to interlock with the intermediate member such that the mirror head support and intermediate member become rigidly joined. Also disclosed is an extendable rear view mirror assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: CLEARVIEW PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PTY LTD
    Inventors: Michael Cowan, Paul McCormack
  • Patent number: 11708027
    Abstract: A power telescoping mirror pivot assembly includes a base frame, a first telescoping arm and a second telescoping arm, wherein the first telescoping arm is pivotally attached at its first end of the base frame and the second telescoping arm is pivotally attached at its first end to the base frame, a telescoping frame assembly comprising a telescoping motor, wherein the telescoping motor is mounted to the telescoping frame assembly and is attached at a second end of the first telescoping arm and at a second end of the second telescoping arms, and a mirror head attached to the telescoping frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: Motherson Innovations Company Limited
    Inventors: Douglas Wilson, David Ren, Donald Depalma, Alan Fraley, Jeffery Rode, Anthony D'Andrea
  • Patent number: 11439257
    Abstract: A photographic mirror assembly includes a mirror which comprises a plurality of panels that are movably coupled together thereby facilitating a user to see themselves from a plurality of angles. An image capturing unit is integrated into the mirror to capture images of the user. The image capturing unit can overlay various eyeglasses onto the user to facilitate the user to view themselves wearing various eyeglasses prior to purchasing eyeglasses. An actuator is coupled to the mirror spacing the mirror an adjustable distance from the vertical support surface. A remote control is in wireless communication with the image capturing unit and the actuator to facilitate the user to remotely control operation of the image capturing unit and the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Inventor: Richard H. Weiland, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9723886
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved rear view mirror that removably attaches to a protective helmet. The helmet mirror, in its preferred embodiment, includes a bracket, an elongated adjustable arm, an adjustment nut, and a mirror, wherein the bracket and the adjustable arm are rubber-coated. The adjustable arm includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the bracket and the second end is attached to the mirror by means of the adjustment nut. The positioning of the mirror may be adjusted by bending the adjustable arm and/or pivoting the mirror about the adjustment nut. The bracket is bent to form a general J-shape when viewed from the side. The bracket is adapted to be wedged under the rim portion of a protective helmet to removably secure the device to the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Inventor: Robert Burse
  • Patent number: 9274306
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of manufacturing a reflector (6) including a mirror (16) supported by a support structure (18), where the said method includes a step of positioning the mirror relative to the said support structure by moving a mold (30) supporting the mirror relative to the said structure, According to the invention, the method also includes a step of adjustment of multiple links (20) between the mirror and the structure, implemented during the step of positioning of the mirror, and/or after this step, and causing at least a proportion of the links to be moved relative to the structure (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES
    Inventors: Frédéric Vidal, Raphaël Couturier
  • Publication number: 20140330451
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for managing a reflecting plate for a fruit tree are disclosed. The apparatus for managing a reflecting plate for a fruit tree includes: a solar sensor configured to sense the amount of sunlight; a fruit-tree database configured to store therein types and locations of fruit trees grown in a growing area; a wireless communication unit configured to perform communications with a robot for moving a reflecting plate for a fruit tree and with the reflecting plate via a wireless communication network; and a central processing unit configured to control the robot so that it installs the reflecting plate in the growing area and to control a reflection angle at which the sunlight is reflected in the reflecting plate, based on at least one of the amount of sunlight, the types and locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Sang-Ho LEE, Jang-Sik BAE, Kyu-Hyung KIM, Song LI, Soo-In LEE
  • 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: 8714759
    Abstract: A connector head carried by the stabilizer arm. A first retaining sidewall and a second retaining sidewall included in the connector head extending outward from the stabilizer arm and defining a longitudinal channel. A plurality of spiked projections carried by at least one of the first and second retaining sidewalls, wherein a point of each spike is directed back towards the stabilizer arm. An elastic block carried in the longitudinal channel so that the spiked projections penetrate the elastic block to hold the elastic block in the longitudinal channel. A receiver having a retention slot cooperating with the connector head to releasably secure the stabilizer arm. A knob projecting upward from a base surface of the retention slot for engaging the elastic block in a friction fit arrangement between the connector head and the retention slot so that the stabilizer arm is releasably secured in the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventor: Andreas Enz
  • Patent number: 8696145
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Rosco Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 8646922
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Rosco Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 8608324
    Abstract: A portable anti-condensation mirror apparatus for use while shaving in a shower environment includes a housing having a plurality of walls that together define an interior area. A front wall of the housing defines a slot. The apparatus includes a reflection panel having a first end operatively coupled to the housing and an opposed free end, the reflection panel being movable between a retracted configuration substantially inside the interior area and an extended configuration extending through the slot and substantially outside the interior area. At least one housing suction cup is mounted to a rear wall of the housing so as to selectively mount the housing in a shower. A heating member is positioned in the interior area and configured to generate heat inside the interior area when energized by a battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Hartaj Bains
  • 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: 8506100
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: James Prendamano
  • 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: 8333479
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Rosco Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 8157394
    Abstract: A mirror assembly having a versatile clamping assembly for use during hunting or other outdoor sporting activities comprises an adjustable mirror which provides a user with a wide viewing angle to the rear and periphery of a current location. The mirror assembly is attached to an upper end of a flexible arm element that provides multiple degrees of articulation as desired by the user. A bottom end of the arm element is affixed to a clamping mechanism which enables the assembly to attach to various sized branches, railings, platforms, or other structures. The clamping mechanism further provides a pair of thumb-screw fasteners on the handle which enable the clamp to be secured to inserted branches or similar objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventor: William Downing
  • Patent number: 7982853
    Abstract: The invention proposes a Subpixel Scroll method, which optically shifts the position of the mirror elements to the projection axis by one subpixel size each, with an additional 45° mirror between DMD and projection optics. The 45° mirror is shifted by ¼ mirror element width by means of a controllable actuator. The size of this change of position and the time are synchronized in such a way by the position indicator signals of the scan sled that the mirror element seems to stand relative to the substrate surface element. This resetting is however not bound to the DMD-switching speed of 10 kHz. Among other advantages, the invention reduces the blur at the edge transition by the higher resolution and facilitates a higher scan velocity, whereby the scan velocity depends on the dynamics of the actuator, the effective UV-power of the UV-source and the sensitivity of the photosensitive polymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Radove GmbH
    Inventors: Dariusz Skibicki, Tomasz Paczkowski, Piotr Domanowski
  • Patent number: 7896508
    Abstract: A mirror attached to a weapon such as a rifle, pistol or shotgun. The gun mirror is a slightly convex mirror seated in a flexible seat which is anchored to a weapon by flexible legs which may be magnetic or have a threaded fastener or have hook/loop fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: William E. Dyson
  • Patent number: 7883225
    Abstract: A connector assembly for releasably attaching a stabilizer arm to a support arm of a vehicle exterior rearview mirror. The assembly includes a connector head carried by the stabilizer arm and a connector receiver is carried by the other of said stabilizer arm and support arm. A retention slot is included in said connector receiver for receiving said connector head. A biasing element is carried in said retention slot for biasing against said connector head when received in said retention slot. A catch tongue projects from one of said connector head and said biasing element. A catch recess is carried by the other of said connector head and said biasing element which is complementary to said catch tongue for interlocking said connector head with said biasing element in said retention slot to provide an increased surface area of engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Emmanuel Courbon, Andreas Enz
  • Patent number: 7869919
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed herein to provide improved infrared camera techniques for vehicular applications. For example, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle includes at least a first plate to reflect infrared energy and an infrared camera to detect the infrared energy reflected from the first plate(s) to provide infrared images. The plate allows the infrared camera to provide a desired line of sight view without requiring the infrared camera to be directly within the line of sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Flir Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Kostrzewa, William A. Terre, James T. Woolaway
  • Patent number: 7856693
    Abstract: A self-cleaning exterior mirror for trucks and like vehicles includes a rigid mounting bracket provided with axially opposed first and second ends respectively, and monolithically formed first, second, and third sections respectively. A plurality of coupling plates is integrally attached to the first and second ends of the bracket. The coupling plates are attached to the exterior of the existing vehicle for supporting the bracket above a ground surface. A substantially rectangular shaped frame is pivotally connected to the third section of the bracket, and a mirror is attached to the frame. A mechanism remotely cleans the mirror, and is attached to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Archie Johnson
  • Patent number: 7837338
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Rosco, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7815323
    Abstract: A connector assembly for releasably attaching a stabilizer arm to a support arm of a vehicle exterior rearview mirror. The assembly includes a connector head carried by the stabilizer arm. The connector head includes a convex bottom surface. A connector receiver is carried by the support arm. A retention slot is included in the connector receiver for receiving the connector head. A first locking element is carried by the connector head. A second locking element is carried within the retention slot for cooperating with the first locking element to releasably engage the connector head with the connector receiver. A biasing element is carried in the retention slot biasing against the convex bottom surface of the connector head for urging the first and second locking elements together, wherein the convex bottom surface pivots on the biasing element to accommodate misalignment between the connector head and the connector receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Lang-Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Emmanuel Courbon, Andreas Enz
  • Patent number: 7810940
    Abstract: A table comprising a base and a plurality of support members supported by the base is used to shape a mirror. The height of the plurality of support members is adjusted to form a predetermined shape. A mirror is placed over the plurality of support members, such that the mirror assumes the predetermined shape. A frame is then attached to the mirror such that when the mirror and frame are lifted off the table, the mirror substantially retains the predetermined shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Areva Solar, Inc.
    Inventors: Philipp Hans Josef Schramek, Anthony John Roddom
  • Patent number: 7798655
    Abstract: A projection unit 17 effectively corrects out of focus due to a temperature rise. A mirror holding mechanism of a concave mirror 25 has a mirror holder 41 and a mirror holder base 42. The concave mirror 25 is slidably housed in the mirror holder 41. A focus correction member 57, which expands by heat, is disposed between a back face of the concave mirror 25 and reference plane S formed in the mirror holder. The concave mirror 25 and the focus correction element 57 are urged to the reference plane S by a mirror retainer spring 59.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Konica Minolta Opto, Inc.
    Inventors: Atsushi Matsuura, Shinichi Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20100208376
    Abstract: A compact mirror device comprises a casing in which a flat mirror drawer, comprising a mirror, is fully or partially enclosed, a co-operating means on the mirror drawer and casing to enable slidable movement of the mirror drawer relative to the casing to expose the mirror to view, such co-operating means also preventing complete detachment of the mirror drawer from the casing. Magnets of opposing poles situated on both the mirror drawer and the casing securably hold the mirror drawer in a closed position relative to the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventor: Chris Ackerman
  • Patent number: 7775673
    Abstract: A non-backboard reflector mirror includes a mirror body with a rim, a locating bar affixed to the back side of the rim of the mirror body, a locating frame, which has a clamping portion coupled to the locating bar and movable along and rotatable relative to the locating bar and affixed thereto at the desired elevation and angle, and a mounting frame selectively fastened to an array of mounting through holes at the locating frame at the desired angle for installation in a ceiling, overhead wall, or vertical wall, short wall. An alternate mounting frame may be used for installation in a post so that the non-backboard reflector mirror is used as a traffic mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Cheng-Shun Liu
  • Patent number: 7717576
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Rosco Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Publication number: 20100103547
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting on a trailer which includes a gripping portion and a mirror to assist hitching the trailer to a towing vehicle while the driver/operator remains in the towing vehicle. The assembly comprises a removable spring loaded pair of griping plates for use with adjustable, telescopic tubular members on which is mounted an adjustable mirror mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: Albert J. ABBOTT
  • Patent number: 7631977
    Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle is disclosed, the rearview mirror assembly including a support structure for mounting the mirror assembly to the vehicle. The support structure includes a first part for substantially permanent connection to the vehicle and a second part for selective connection to the first part. A support arm is provided on which at least one mirror is mounted, the second part of the support structure being disposed on the support arm. A locking mechanism is disposed on the support structure for selectively locking together the first and second parts of the support structure to thereby secure the support arm and mirror to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Heinrich Lang, Albrecht Popp, Jürgen Pfanz
  • Publication number: 20090296245
    Abstract: A table comprising a base and a plurality of support members supported by the base is used to shape a mirror. The height of the plurality of support members is adjusted to form a predetermined shape. A mirror is placed over the plurality of support members, such that the mirror assumes the predetermined shape. A frame is then attached to the mirror such that when the mirror and frame are lifted off the table, the mirror substantially retains the predetermined shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: Ausra, Inc.
    Inventors: Philipp Hans Josef Schramek, Anthony John Roddom
  • Patent number: 7600879
    Abstract: A rear seat viewing system for a motor vehicle is disclosed. The rear seat viewing system includes a mirror attached to a mirror mounting device. The mirror mounting device may retract the mirror into an exterior surface of a rear seat in a stowed position and extend the mirror outside of the exterior surface of the rear seat in an employed position. A linkage mechanism attached to the mirror mounting device can allow horizontal and vertical adjustment of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Brian Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20090244742
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mirror device for a sun visor of a vehicle, in which when a cover of a mirror mounted to a sun visor is opened or closed, the mirror can be operated smoothly and completely, comprising: a mirror housing having a mirror and a cover sliding from the mirror housing to open or close the mirror, wherein the mirror housing and the cover are coupled to each other by an elongation member. Accordingly, the cover moves smoothly in a semi-automatic sliding manner by means of an elastic body, thereby restraining noise from being generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Hyo Keun Kim
  • Patent number: 7441911
    Abstract: A vehicular external rearview mirror system comprises a twin-arm assembly comprising a pair of parallel support arms connected at one end to a base attached to the vehicle and movably connected at another end to a reflective element assembly through a movable support bracket. The support bracket supports a reflective element assembly and is attached to the twin-arm assembly through a pair of integral bearings which translate along the arms to extend or retract the reflective element assembly. In one embodiment, the bearing imparts a friction force to the arm to enable the bracket to be moved along the arm under the influence of an extension/retraction force, but to maintain the bracket at a selected position along the arm when the force is removed. In another embodiment, the bearing is adapted for frictionless translation of the bracket along the arms under the influence of a powerextend actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Ruse, Keith D. Foote, Kenneth C. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7370983
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly includes a display screen that is extendable and retractable relative to a casing. The display screen is movably mounted at the casing and movable or slidable in a direction generally parallel to a length axis of the reflective element between a non-use position, where the video display screen is positioned substantially within the casing, and a use position, where the video display screen is substantially extended from a side of the casing for viewing. The display screen may be automatically extended in response to an activating event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Darryl P. DeWind, Mark E. Kramer, Andrew D. Weller, Peter J. Whitehead, Rodney K. Blank, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 7370984
    Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle is provided. The assembly has a holding component and clamping parts to clamp the mirror assembly to the holding component. Alternative embodiments of the holding component and clamping parts are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Heinrich Lang, Wolfgang Seiboth, Stefan Centmayer
  • Patent number: 7357522
    Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly for attachment to a holding tube carried by a vehicle. The assembly includes a housing framing configured to encase a portion of the holding tube and to attach with a mirror element. A clamping bracket is also configured to encase a portion of the holding tube and to attach with the housing frame. A projection formed with one of the housing framing and the clamping bracket is positioned to extend into the holding tube when encased by the clamping bracket and housing framing. Connectors are engaged with the housing framing, clamping bracket and the extension locking them in position relative to each other and the holding tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Emmanuel Courbon, Heinrich Lang, Wolfgang Seiboth, Stefan Centmayer
  • Patent number: 7341356
    Abstract: A dual magnification vanity mirror adjustable in height and orientation includes an elongated stanchion curved into the shape of a C having a downwardly depending threaded support leg insertably receivable through a central hole in a base plate and removably fastenable thereto by a nut threaded onto the leg. The mirror includes a mirror frame which holds therein a pair of back-to-back mirror plates of different relative magnifications, the frame being joined by a ball-and-socket joint to a bushing rotatably mounted on a horizontal end arm of the stanchion, whereby the frame is swivelable and/or rotatable about an axis of the ball-and-socket joint to adjustable azimuth and inclination angles, orbital about a longitudinal axis of the coupler bushing to an adjustable height, and secured thereat by a screw tightened into radial bore through the bushing onto the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventor: Zlatko Zadro
  • Patent number: 7303293
    Abstract: A vehicle mirror assembly for mounting an exterior rearview mirror to a vehicle body, the assembly having a support arm pivotally mounted to the vehicle for supporting the mirror, and a stabilizer bar having a first end pivotally mounted to the vehicle and a second end attached to the support arm, the assembly comprising: a connector head carried by one of the second end of the stabilizer bar and the support arm, and a connector receiver carried by the other stabilizer bar and support arm. The connector receiver includes a retention slot for receiving the connector head. A first locking element is carried by the connector head, a second locking element is carried within the retention slot; and an elongated convex biasing spring carried in the retention slot biasing the first and second locking elements together to provide a reliable interlocking connection between the stabilizer bar and support arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Lang Mekra North America, LLC
    Inventors: Emmanuel Courbon, Andreas Enz
  • 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: 7290892
    Abstract: An angle adjustable mirror support for a bathroom includes a mirror, a shaft mounted on the frame of the mirror, two connecting members each mounted on the frame of the mirror and each secured to the respective end of the shaft, two fixing seats each mounted on the respective connecting member, and two locking members each mounted on the respective fixing seat and each secured to the respective connecting member. Thus, the shaft has two ends each rested on the inner face of the respective side of the frame of the mirror, so that the shaft is mounted on the frame of the mirror easily without the possibility of breaking the mirror face of the mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Horng Lai Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ming-Dang Shieh
  • Patent number: 7290891
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a generally Z-shaped mirror mounting bracket configured for attachment to a structural portion of the vehicle inside an engine bay of the vehicle, and a support member connected to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket includes a first flange and a second flange extending laterally in opposite directions from opposed edges of a connecting web. The first flange has two through-holes sized and positioned for connection to the structural portion inside engine bay by existing body panel mounting screws. The second flange and the connecting web are sized and configured so that the second flange extends out of the engine bay upon installation of the bracket. The support member carries a pivot element sized and configured to pivotally support a first support arm assembly for a rear view mirror unit and a second support arm assembly for a cross view mirror unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander
  • Patent number: 7284869
    Abstract: A rear light viewing assembly and method includes a panel that has a top side and a bottom side. A magnet is attached to the bottom side of the panel. An arm is removably attached to and extends upwardly from the top side. The arm has an upper end and a lower end. A mirror is attached to the upper end of the arm so that a mirrored surface of the mirror faces away from the upper end. The panel is attached to a trunk of the vehicle. The mirror is orientated so that an image of the rear lights is reflected from the mirror to a rear view mirror of the vehicle. The rear lights are actuated and viewed by the rear view mirror to determine if they are illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: Michael C. Weaver
  • Patent number: 7270430
    Abstract: A vehicle external review-view mirror assembly having an extension and retraction mechanism for a telescopic arm support that connects a mirror head to a mirror mounting bracket is disclosed. The assembly comprises: a hollow outer arm extending from the bracket, an inner arm mounted to the head and extending into the outer arm for relative sliding movement out of and into the outer arm; a driving wheel rotatably mounted to the inner arm or the head; a driven wheel rotatably mounted to the inner arm and positioned within the outer arm at a location spaced apart from the driven wheel; and a toothed belt extending between the driving wheel and the driven wheel for power transmission between them. A pair of laterally spaced apart contact rollers are mounted coaxially with the driven wheel, the pair of contact rollers engaging spaced apart bearing surfaces depending from the outer arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark L. Olijnyk, Daniel J. Flynn
  • Patent number: 7270429
    Abstract: The invention relates to an exterior vehicle mirror having a mirror assembly mounted to a vehicle. A drive assembly comprises a drive screw coupled to a motor and a drive nut threadably mounted on the drive screw. The rotation of the drive screw by the motor causes the drive nut to traverse the drive screw. As the drive nut traverses the drive screw, it causes the extension and retraction of the mirror assembly. A slip clutch is interposed between the motor and the drive screw to enable the motor to continue to operate without damage if the mirror assembly reaches full extension or retraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7261427
    Abstract: A vehicular external rearview mirror system comprises a twin-arm assembly comprising a pair of parallel support arms connected at one end to a base attached to the vehicle and movably connected at another end to a reflective element assembly through a movable support bracket. The support bracket supports a reflective element assembly and is attached to the twin-arm assembly through a pair of integral bearings which translate along the arms to extend or retract the reflective element assembly. In one embodiment, the bearing imparts a friction force to the arm to enable the bracket to be moved along the arm under the influence of an extension/retraction force, but to maintain the bracket at a selected position along the arm when the force is removed. In another embodiment, the bearing is adapted for frictionless translation of the bracket along the arms under the influence of a powerextend actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America L.L.C.
    Inventors: James A. Ruse, Keith D. Foote, Kenneth C. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7252398
    Abstract: A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a generally Z-shaped mirror mounting bracket configured for attachment to a structural portion of the vehicle inside an engine bay of the vehicle, and a support member connected to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket includes a first flange and a second flange extending laterally in opposite directions from opposed edges of a connecting web. The first flange has two through-holes sized and positioned for connection to the structural portion inside engine bay by existing body panel mounting screws. The second flange and the connecting web are sized and configured so that the second flange extends out of the engine bay upon installation of the bracket. The support member carries a pivot element sized and configured to pivotally support a first support arm assembly for a rear view mirror unit and a second support arm assembly for a cross view mirror unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Rosco, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Englander