With Plural Light Sources Or Diverse Light Modifiers Patents (Class 362/140)
  • Patent number: 11702010
    Abstract: A vehicular interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror head and a display device disposed in the mirror head and behind a reflective element. An actuator is operable to adjust the mirror head between a mirror mode orientation and a display mode orientation. Operation of the actuator moves a cam follower to cause a pin at the mirror head to travel along the groove to adjust orientation of the mirror head. With the mirror head in the mirror mode orientation, a first voltage is applied to adjust the mirror head out of the mirror mode orientation. A second voltage that is lower than the first voltage is then applied to adjust the mirror head toward the display mode orientation. A third voltage that is higher than the second voltage is then applied to adjust the mirror head into the display mode orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony J. LaCross, Gregory A. Huizen, Eric Peterson
  • Patent number: 10948176
    Abstract: Extruded frame members are connected together to create a frame around a mirror that be illuminated from in front of the mirror. The extruded frame members contain various components in channels or cavities. An extruded frame member can have a channel that contains a light source. A diffuser can be secured over the light source. Another channel is used to hold a mirror in place. The front lit mirror can be hung on a wall utilizing a channel in an extruded frame member. The extruded frame members contain electrical components and mechanical hardware. The hardware is used to attach a plurality of extruded frame members together and to attach an optional decorative frame to an extruded frame member. An extruded frame member is made from transparent or translucent material and can radiate light from a light source contained therein. An extruded frame member is opaque and cannot radiate light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: ELECTRIC MIRROR, LLC
    Inventors: Jon Philip Johnston, Patrick Daniel Erickson
  • Patent number: 10531544
    Abstract: The disclosure concerns a portable beauty light kit, comprising a power management and control unit “PMC” and a plurality of light modules. The PMC comprises: a plurality of charging bays, and a signal transmitting circuit. Each of the individual light modules comprises: a light emitting source, a signal receiving circuit, and a housing. Each of the individual light modules is designed to nest within one of the charging bays of the PMC, wherein they receive a battery charge. Additionally, the light modules are designed to be taken from the charging bays of the PMC and removeably attached to a mirror. The signal receiving circuit of each light module is configured to receive a wireless signal communicated from the signal transmitting circuit of the PMC. The signal receiving circuit modulates a light emitting state associated with each light emitting source based on the signal communicated from the signal transmitting circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Inventor: Rachel Vicknair
  • Patent number: 10159124
    Abstract: A dimmable LED light unit, in particular for a passenger transportation vehicle, such as an aircraft, a road vehicle, a ship or a rail car, is disclosed that comprises a power input adapted to receive electrical power from a power source, at least one LED, and an LED drive and control module coupled between the power input and the at least one LED, wherein the LED drive and control module is adapted to receive an LED control signal indicative of a desired light intensity of the dimmable LED light unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: GOODRICH LIGHTING SYSTEMS GMBH
    Inventors: Robert Trinschek, Frederik Kraemer, Carsten Geske
  • Patent number: 9891755
    Abstract: An operating device includes at least one ToF sensor for emitting transmission signals, in particular in the form of light, receiving reception signals and outputting information signals, at least one optical waveguide for directing the transmission signals from the ToF sensor to at least one deflection point, for directing the deflection signals deflected where the operating device can be installed in a motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: SMR Patents S.à.r.l.
    Inventors: Romeo Wieczorek, Nitesh Shah
  • Patent number: 9718357
    Abstract: A vehicular accessory system includes an attachment element adhered at an interior surface of a windshield of a vehicle and an accessory assembly attached to the attachment element. The accessory assembly includes circuitry disposed in the housing, the circuitry including a video camera. The video camera, when the accessory assembly is attached to the attachment element, has a field of view into the interior of the vehicle that encompasses the head of a potential driver of the vehicle. The video camera captures an image of the face of the potential driver and, responsive to image processing by image recognition software of the vehicular accessory system, the vehicular accessory system determines that the potential driver is an authorized driver who is authorized to operate the vehicle and, responsive to this determination, enables the ignition system to allow the motor of the vehicle be started.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: MAGNA ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan E. DeLine, Roger L. Veldman, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 9365157
    Abstract: A vehicle having a light in an exterior and a cluster and a center fascia in an interior includes a first lighting unit provided in the cluster, a second lighting unit provided in the center fascia, a recognizer configured to recognize ON and OFF operations of the light, a detector configured to detect illuminance, and a controller configured to adjust luminance of the first and second lighting units based on operation information of the light and the illuminance. A structure of the lighting unit within the center fascia may be simplified by adjusting brightness of the lighting unit within the center fascia in the controller configured to control the lighting unit of the cluster and therefore manufacturing cost may be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Wontaek Oh
  • Patent number: 9335020
    Abstract: Provided is a lamp for a vehicle, which can form a predetermined repetition image with the use of a signal lamp installed at an outside mirror of a vehicle. The lamp for a vehicle includes: a mirror housing; and a signal lamp configured to be installed on a surface of the mirror housing, wherein the signal lamp includes a reflection unit, a lens unit disposed at the front of the reflection unit and having a half mirror, and a light source unit disposed between the reflection unit and the lens unit having one or more light sources and a light guide, thereby generating a light pattern having repetition image with an original image of the light guide and one or more reflected images of the original image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: SL Corporation
    Inventors: Yong Hwan Kim, Do Yoon Song
  • Patent number: 9307849
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a first channel element; the first channel element has a first end and a second end and a length; and a first light element. The first light element has a length. A length of the first channel element is established using the length of the first light element. The first channel element further includes a coupleable area. The coupleable area permits the first channel element to be coupled to a second channel element, wherein the mirror chassis is formed thereby. A method to establish a set of channel element lengths for a mirror chassis includes selecting a set of light element lengths and then determining a channel element length from each light element length. The channel element length is selected to permit mounting a light element associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: ELECTRIC MIRROR, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Martin Uhl
  • Patent number: 9111511
    Abstract: A back plate attachable to the back of a guitar is provided. The plate includes screw holes and string ferrule holes. The screw holes of the plate align with the screw holes on a guitar, and the string ferrule holes of the plate align with the string ferrule holes of the guitar. The plate may be bolted or screwed to the back of the guitar via the screw holes. Guitar strings may run through the string ferrule holes of the plate and guitar and attach to the pegs of the guitar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Scott Miller
  • Publication number: 20150145408
    Abstract: Provided is an illuminated mirror device including: a mirror; a light-emitting part for illumination disposed near the mirror; and driving means for driving the light-emitting part, and detection means for detecting a direction of a face of a person in front of the mirror with respect to the mirror, wherein the driving means controls an emission luminance distribution on a light-emitting surface of the light-emitting part on the basis of the face direction detected by the detection means. Also provided is a method for controlling illumination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: Pioneer Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuo Kuroda
  • Publication number: 20150062877
    Abstract: An illumination device configured for use by makeup artists, hair stylists, and performers in the performing arts and motion picture industry. The invention consists of a mirror with portions that allows light from LEDs mounted behind the mirror to illuminate subjects in front of the mirror. Light intensity and color temperature are adjustable by the user. Convenience receptacles for hair styling appliances are built into the invention. Modern USB receptacles and wireless charging pads are also included. Power is provided by connecting an extension cord to a male AC plug mounted on the back of the device. The invention may come with a stand with wheels or may be made to sit on a flat surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Troy Takes
  • Patent number: 8845156
    Abstract: A vehicle lamp includes a long solid-core shaped light guide; a first light source that irradiates an end portion of the long solid-core shaped light guide in a longitudinal direction such that light is radiated long from an end side of the vehicle lamp toward another end side of the vehicle lamp; and a second light source that irradiates the another end side of the vehicle lamp to a lateral outer side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Mitsuba Corporation
    Inventors: Yosuke Fukasawa, Yasushi Kawaji, Hitoshi Kurihara, Tatsuya Sugamoto
  • Patent number: 8735922
    Abstract: A LED mirror light assembly comprises a body having a through hole configured subject to a predetermined shape and located on a middle part thereof, a film-coated glass configured subject to shape of the through hole and supported on a first step, a LED holder holding a plurality of light-emitting diodes, and a reflector comprising a reflective surface located on a front side thereof and facing toward the light-emitting diodes and a light-shading coating coated on a rear side thereof The reflector being kept in a non-parallel manner relative to the film-coated glass and defining with the film-coated glass a predetermined contained angle so that the light spots of the light-emitting diodes are repeatedly reflected by the reflective back face of the film-coated glass and the reflective surface of the reflector, forming a curved tunnel of light spots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Chien-Tsai Tsai
  • Publication number: 20130235607
    Abstract: A mirror assembly can include a housing, a mirror, and a light source. In certain embodiments, the mirror includes a light pipe configured to emit a substantially constant amount of light along a periphery of the mirror. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly can be configured to adjust the amount of emitted light based on the position of a user in relation to the mirror. Certain embodiments of the mirror include an algorithm to adjust light based on the position of a user relative to the mirror, the level of ambient light, and/or the activation of different light modes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: simplehuman, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, David Wolbert, Joseph Sandor, Orlando Cardenas, Frederick N. Bushroe
  • Patent number: 8398270
    Abstract: An ornament of the present invention includes a display that is hidden behind a panel. An ornament body includes at least one panel which includes a two-way mirror and a display in the interior of the body. The ornament includes a light disposed in the ornament body which, when active, reveals the display which is otherwise hidden behind the two-way mirror. The light may be activated by a sensor that recognizes physical motion, and may also include a speaker to play music and a moving display element driven by a motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Mr. Christmas Incorporated
    Inventors: Leslie Hermanson, Huang Meng-Suen
  • Publication number: 20130027913
    Abstract: A makeup mirror having a light source configured to have output that not only enhances the visibility of objects as they are reflected by the mirror, but also optimizes visual acuity of the reflected image as captured by the human eye. In some cases, the makeup mirror allows for separate adjustment of the mirror and the light source, which, in combination with the light source, enables the reflected objects to be lit in uniform manner and for optimized human visual acuity while allowing for areas of the objects to be examined in detail as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: OTTLITE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: David Frisch, Kelly O'Brien Martelli, Kelly Shea Kuethe
  • Patent number: 8356908
    Abstract: A mirror includes a frame holding back-to-back a pair of reflective mirror plates having different magnification factors, each plate having a reflective central area and an outer concentric light-transmissive window area. Rotatable pivot joints supporting the frame between opposed arms of a support yoke and enable the frame to be rotated to orient a selected plate in a forward-facing use position. A hoop-shaped printed circuit board having circumferentially spaced apart light emitting diodes (LED's) protruding therefrom is located between inner facing surfaces of the mirror plates. Objects in front of a mirror plates are illuminated by direct LED rays emitted forwardly through the window areas and by indirect LED rays reflected from reflective inner facing surfaces of the mirror plates, and from the forward facing surface of a movable reflector ring within the frame which falls rearward when the frame is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Inventor: Zlatko Zadro
  • Patent number: 8021004
    Abstract: A mirrored element (101) includes a first section (201) that is translucent when a backlight (301) is on and mirrored when the backlight is off (301). A second section (203) provides a mirrored surface when the backlight (301) is on and when the backlight (301) is off. The mirrored element (101) may optionally be provided with an enclosure (103). A baking process may be utilized to provide the second section (203) of the mirrored element (101).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Jacek Helenowski
  • Patent number: 7853414
    Abstract: A mirror assembly mountable to a wall includes a mirror platform having a front surface and a rear surface, a chassis engageable with the mirror platform to define a mirror assembly interior, at least one electrical component disposed within the mirror assembly interior, and a mounting structure. The mounting structure includes a support member mounted to one of the rear surface of the mirror platform and the chassis and a hanger member mounted to the other of the rear surface of the mirror platform and the chassis. The hanger member is removably securable on the support member to mount the mirror platform to the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Electric Mirror, LLC
    Inventors: James V. Mischel, Jr., Patrick Erickson
  • Patent number: 7824074
    Abstract: A display with illumination function, comprising: a display body, including a display screen; a support, have a top and a base, said top includes at least one of the pivot member joint to one side of display body allow the display body to rotate freely; a light source disposed around the display screen; and a stand connected to the base of the support. When the surrounding environment has insufficient lighting for reading or using the display, the user can simply turn on the light source to illuminates the display screen and work area, without the needs of additional lamps or other lighting devices which can occupy extra desk space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Hannspree, Inc.
    Inventors: Guan-De Liou, Stephen Tsai, Li-Li Lai
  • Patent number: 7813024
    Abstract: The present invention provides an EC mirror assembly including an EC mirror cell and a control for controlling the reflectivity of the mirror cell, the assembly also including a pair of contact elements independently displaceable relative to the mirror cell while maintaining an electrical connection with the control, the contact elements also being engageable with opposite edges of the mirror cell in order to provide an electrical connection between the control and the mirror cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Engineering, GmbH
    Inventors: John P. Desmond, Garret Coady, John P. Drummond, Martin McGarry, Patrick J. Dowling, Sean Fletcher, David Powell
  • Patent number: 7805260
    Abstract: A mirror assembly mountable to a wall is provided. The mirror assembly includes a mirror platform having a front surface and a rear surface, and a chassis mountable to the mirror platform. At least one electrical component is disposed between the mirror platform and the chassis. An electrical passageway is formed within the chassis for allowing the electrical component to be placed into communication with a power source located remotely from the mirror assembly. A recess is also formed within the chassis for housing a connection between the power source and the electrical component such that the chassis can be mounted substantially flush against the wall when the electrical component is electrically connected to the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Electric Mirror, LLC
    Inventors: James V. Mischel, Jr., James V. Mischel, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20100073792
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a make-mirror designed to direct airflow to a user's face, and includes a mirror embedded in a housing that encases a fan, and is vented to direct airflow to a user's face. Various embodiments may include lighting, bases, stands, extension arms, components for flush mounting the invention to a wall, electrical wiring, battery adapted power components, and solar power components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Lisa Limjoco
  • Patent number: 7621651
    Abstract: A decorative picture mirror is provided. The picture mirror includes a smooth mirror surface. A coating layer is provided on a back portion of the mirror surface, wherein the coating layer covers a select local part of the backside of the mirror surface leaving an uncovered portion of the backside of the mirror surface. A medium including a graphic pattern is connected to the backside of the mirror surface, wherein the graphic pattern substantially fully covers the uncovered portion of the backside of the mirror surface, whereby the coating layer and the graphic pattern form substantially continuous coverage on the select local part of the backside of the mirror surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: World Fancy Limited
    Inventors: Po Kwok Chan, Chung Ki Yim
  • Patent number: 7600886
    Abstract: A backlit mirror assembly comprises a mirror, a lamp chamber, and a prop. The mirror is pivotally coupled to the lamp chamber so that it may be tilted outwardly, thereby allowing access to electrical components housed within the lamp chamber. A prop maintains the mirror in an open position. In one embodiment, the prop incorporates a gas spring to facilitate lifting of the mirror by a sole user. The mirror may be coupled to a rigid frame in order to strengthen the mirror, thereby reducing flexing of the mirror and hazards associated with such flexing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Cornerstone Lighting, LLC
    Inventors: Daryl D. Sullivan, Robert Harney
  • Publication number: 20090231836
    Abstract: A mirror assembly includes a mirror and a light fixture configured to be releasably coupled to the mirror. The light fixture has a mounting structure and a first lamp support attached to the mounting structure for supporting a first lamp. The light fixture further includes a second lamp support attached to the mounting structure for supporting a second lamp adjacent to the first lamp. The second lamp support is elastically deformable between a lamp support position that obstructs removal of the first lamp and a release position that does not obstruct removal of the first lamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: ELECTRIC MIRROR, LLC
    Inventors: James V. Mischel, JR., James V. Mischel, SR., Patrick D. Erickson
  • Patent number: 7559668
    Abstract: An apparatus including a mirror mounted to a frame which attaches to a peripheral back lighting assembly that supports the mirror assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Truman Aubrey
  • Patent number: 7540647
    Abstract: A medical inspection device. A housing includes a transparent plate. A circuit board is disposed in the housing. At least one light-emitting element is disposed on and electrically connected to the circuit board. The light-emitting element is opposite to the transparent plate. Light from the light-emitting element is output to the exterior of the housing through the transparent plate. An image sensor is disposed on and electrically connected to the circuit board. The image sensor is opposite to the transparent plate. An image in the exterior of the housing is received by the image sensor through the transparent plate and converted into an image signal thereby. A grip is detachably connected to the housing. A signal transmission line is detachably connected to the circuit board and fit in the grip and extends to the exterior of the grip, outputting the image signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Kun-Feng Lee, Ching-Yi Wu, Yu-Shih Chen, Yuh-Jiuan Lin, Hsi Feng Kao
  • Patent number: 7484878
    Abstract: A vanity-lighting system for providing light to a reflective surface for the application and removal of cosmetics. The system includes multiple segments. Each segment including at least one light fixture, a mounting device for affixing the segment to a surface, and connectors that allow each segment to be connected to adjoining segments. The system is affixed to a wall by first connecting the adjoining segments in the desired geometric shape and then affixing the connected segments to a surface. Preferably, the surface is proximate a mirror or other reflective surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph Albert McCole
  • Publication number: 20080205046
    Abstract: A mirror maze that employs lighting in the floor of the maze to add to the optical illusion provided by the mirror maze effect. The mirror maze includes the traditional array of pillars and mirrors where lines are provided between the pillars, and where the space between some of the pillars includes a mirror along a line between the pillars and the space between some of the pillars is open. In one non-limiting embodiment, light strips are provided along the lines between the pillars, where a pair of light strips is positioned adjacent to each other between the pillars that do not include a mirror, and a single light strip is provided between pillars that do include a mirror, so that the reflection of the light strip provides the appearance of a pair of light strips.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: Amazing Mazes, LLC
    Inventor: Darrin S. Elias
  • Patent number: 7404654
    Abstract: A rearview mirror (01) for a vehicle with a partly transparent reflective element (03) for observing the traffic behind has at least one signaling mechanism with light-emitting lighting device (05, 07) provided on the rear side of the reflective element (03). The light of the signaling mechanism is radiated at a specific angle of radiation in a predominant direction (13, 14), so that the lighting strength on the front side of the reflective element (03) depends on the viewing angle relative to the predominant direction (13, 14). An optical convergent lens (11), which collects the light signals of the lighting device (05, 07) and deflects them in the direction of the predominant direction (13, 14), is arranged between the lighting device (05, 07) and the reflective element (03).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Robert Lueftner
  • Patent number: 7393115
    Abstract: By providing a light source device inside an exterior member forming a contour of a storage case, and by forming a light transmitting portion to transmit light of the light source device to the exterior member, various decorations can be obtained using light, and the storage case can be decorated to create an aesthetically pleasing or original and novel effect to give a characteristic and unique atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Yoshida Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takayuki Tokushita, Natsumi Yanagisawa, Yukitomo Yuhara
  • Patent number: 7354171
    Abstract: A new lighting fixture is provided for illuminating a mirror or the like while creating the impression and feel of multiple swag lamps suspended on each side of the mirror. The fixture includes a pair of side lamp assemblies each of which is suspended from a corresponding support arm projecting from a mounting assembly positioned above and at the approximate center of the mirror. To provide compact shipping and easy assembly in the field, the side lamp assemblies are suspended by carrier links which are attached to their associated support arms by quick-fit non-screw unions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: The L.D. Kichler Co.
    Inventors: Bruce Raymond Pazula, Joseph John Janos
  • Publication number: 20080068828
    Abstract: A decorative picture mirror is provided. The picture mirror includes a smooth mirror surface. A coating layer is provided on a back portion of the mirror surface, wherein the coating layer covers a select local part of the backside of the mirror surface leaving an uncovered portion of the backside of the mirror surface. A medium including a graphic pattern is connected to the backside of the mirror surface, wherein the graphic pattern substantially fully covers the uncovered portion of the backside of the mirror surface, whereby the coating layer and the graphic pattern form substantially continuous coverage on the select local part of the backside of the mirror surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Applicant: WORLD FANCY LIMITED
    Inventors: Po Kwok CHAN, Chung Ki YIM
  • Patent number: 7329016
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a foot inspection mirror and, more particularly, to a foot inspection device comprised of an assembly of mirrors positioned in such an array so as to assist diabetics and other users in visually self-inspecting all sides of an illuminated foot without unnecessary standing or maneuvering. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: Helen Shonk
  • Patent number: 7311427
    Abstract: A vanity mirror frame (70) has insert-molded electrical contacts (117, 118) for holding a lamp in place in the frame and which, when assembled to a visor core, makes aligned electrical connections with the visor core electrical supply. Further, the vanity mirror frame includes a unique socket (78) for pivotally receiving and holding a mirror cover in place. Detent springs extend between the frame and cover for snap opening and closing of the cover between closed and open positions. The cover includes an additional cam (95, 97) which cooperates with an electrical switch when the cover is open to provide operating power to the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Daniel L. Barker, Steven J. Cieholski, Andrew K. Ruiter, James H. Baas, Robert J. Stenman, Mathias R. Fox, Kenneth D. Kreuze
  • Patent number: 7310178
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle comprises an electro-optic mirror unit whose reflectivity is variable in response to an electrical voltage applied thereto. The mirror unit includes a first substrate and a second substrate with an electro-optic medium sandwiched therebetween. The second substrate includes a recess at a perimeter region thereof. The mirror assembly includes at least one light sensor disposed behind the first substrate of the mirror unit and generally at the recessed perimeter region of the second substrate. The at least one light sensor is operable to receive light through the first substrate and unobstructed by the second substrate of the mirror unit. The light may be received through a bezel of the mirror assembly and through the first substrate and unobstructed by the second substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick J Lawlor, Niall R Lynam, John P Desmond, Patrick J Dowling
  • Patent number: 7080913
    Abstract: A mirror assembly in which the mirror housing and multi-function backing plate provide various useful functions. The multi-function backing plate supports not only a conventional reflective element but also supports a wide angle reflective element. The wide angle reflective element may be adjustable. The multi-function backing plate supports an indicator light assembly so that the mirror assembly can provide an indicator light function. The multi-function backing plate also support a recessible spot or approach lamp which, when the mirror is in an operative position, is recessed within the housing. When the mirror is in an inoperative state, the multi-function backing plate can be rotated so as to expose the spot or approach light. Various light pipe configurations enable transmission of light projected from a light source mounted to and behind the multi-function backing plate to project light through the light pipe externally to the mirror housing to provide an indicator light function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems USA Inc.
    Inventors: Paul R. Henion, James S. Sturek, Graham B. McCloy, Robert W. Gilbert, Bernard Duroux, Neil J. Francis
  • Patent number: 7073927
    Abstract: An accessory attachable to a backup mirror provides safety features to reduce vehicular accidents and includes a high density light bar 22 extending in vertically; a halogen bulb 24 directed laterally of the vehicle to illuminate the region immediately adjacent the vehicle; a strobe bar 26; a series of red LED lights 28 extending about the periphery of accessory 20; a laser light 30 mounted by a spring 32 in vertically oblong slot 34; and a graphic depiction 36 of the narrowing distance between the rear bumper 13 of vehicle 11 and building 15.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Jerry T. Gorniak
  • Patent number: 7029152
    Abstract: A vehicular lighting housing utilizes a combination of a two-way mirror, a strip of LEDs, a one-way mirror spaced from the two-way mirror, and a cover glass such that when the LEDs are illuminated, light reflects back and forth between the two-way mirror and the one-way mirror to present a series of constantly converging light streams forming an endless tunnel of light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Kuhl Reflections, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Kuhl
  • Patent number: 7004599
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an illuminated personal hygiene mirror for viewing facial skin or other areas of the body. In each of the embodiments of the present invention, a hand-held frame receives and supports a mirror. The mirror is covered with a polarizer for polarizing any reflected light falling thereon. A light source is positioned within the frame about the periphery of the mirror and is covered by a polarizing filter for polarizing light emitted therefrom. The mirror polarizer and light source polarizer are out of phase providing cross-polarized light to the eye of the user. An integral handle supports the frame and is held by the user when viewing facial skin. Other embodiments of the present invention include the same components, except a two-way mirror is employed and the mirror frame has a removable back portion to allow viewing by a second person. Other embodiments include an illuminated mirror employing cross and parallel polarization using two light sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: 3gen, LLC.
    Inventor: Nizar A. Mullani
  • Patent number: 6986596
    Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly (10, 110) for a vehicle includes a housing (14, 114) connectable to a vehicle (12). A mirror (18) is disposed in an opening (16) in the housing (14, 114). A member (70, 170) connected to the housing (14, 114) has a reflective portion (78, 178) for reflecting light from another vehicle. The member (70, 170) also has a turn signal lens (88, 188) through which a turn signal light (36, 136) shines. A second lens (46) may direct light from the turn signal light (36) to the turn signal lens (88).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: TRW Automotive U.S. LLC
    Inventor: Peter A. Evans
  • Patent number: 6902284
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror system suitable for use in the interior cabin of a vehicle is provided that includes an interior rearview mirror assembly having an interior rearview mirror support adapted for attaching to a windshield or header portion of the vehicle. The interior rearview mirror assembly includes an interior rearview mirror casing and an interior rearview mirror reflective element. The interior rearview mirror casing is pivotally adjustable about the interior rearview mirror support whereby adjustment of said mirror casing by a driver of the vehicle adjusts the rearward field of view of the interior rearview mirror reflective element in order for the driver to see rearwardly when driving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Barry W. Hutzel, Niall R. Lynam, Darryl P. DeWind, John O. Lindahl
  • Patent number: 6877888
    Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly for vehicles incorporates a reflective mirror element for viewing by a user of the mirror assembly, a lip formed from moldable polymeric resin selected to expand sufficiently when heated to allow snap in insertion of the reflective mirror element while the lip is warm and flexable, a carrier located to the rear of the reflective element such that the carrier is closer to a windshield of the vehicle than the mirror element when the mirror element is mounted in the vehicle, at least one electrical accessory, and an electrical connector adapted to receive a connector from the vehicle electrical system with the electrical accessory connected to the electrical connector. Preferably, the electrical accessory is supported by the carrier and is selected from a variety of electrical devices, lamps, lights, sensors and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan E. DeLine, Roger L. Veldman, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 6870655
    Abstract: A mirror includes a housing, a mirror subassembly including a reflector layer with a portion defining an opening, and an indicia panel covering the opening and configured to form a visual display. At least one light source is positioned in the housing to pass light through the indicia panel and the opening of the mirror subassembly to selectively illuminate the visual display. The at least one light source emits a light matched in color to the indicia panel so that a maximum of light from the at least one light source passes through the indicia panel and is visible to a vehicle driver. Optimally, the light sources emit an amber colored light, and the indicia panel includes a diffusing layer also having an amber color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Bradley L. Northman, John W. Carter, Frederick T. Bauer
  • Publication number: 20040196652
    Abstract: A make up station provides even illumination for a performer's face while minimizing glare and distracting reflections. The make up station is modular to allow the easy assembly of multiple make up stations partially sharing common lighting between adjacent stations. Light rays emanating from the forward most edge of a light source are blocked by a raised trim or reflected from the mirror surface in a direction so that they do not impinge on the user's eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Michael D. Jines, Michael Smedstad, Steven E. Wiese
  • Publication number: 20040145902
    Abstract: A heated mirror assembly is disclosed and which includes a mirror which is operable to both reflect and pass visibly discernible electromagnetic radiation; a first substrate bearing a heater is juxtaposed relative to the mirror, and wherein the heater, when energized, imparts heat energy to the mirror; an electrically conductive pathway is made integral with the first substrate; and an electrical device is electrically coupled to the conductive pathway, and wherein the heater and the electrical device are each energized from electrical terminals which are supported at least in part by the mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel R. Todd, Allen A. Bukosky, Daniel J. Mathieu
  • Patent number: 6750832
    Abstract: An information display system having an output display for presenting information. Optical means are provided that deflect an illumination beam path into the field of view of the observer. Further, a subdividable output display is created that makes it possible to partly obtain information in a vehicle via a head-up display and partly via a traditional or back-projection display. Given seats arranged in rows, for example in airplanes or buses, back rests of preceding seats contain an output display and a communication interface to the seat of the viewer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Peter Kleinschmidt
  • Patent number: RE41818
    Abstract: An installation for increasing the usable scanning range along the axial direction of a light source. The installation includes a linear light source and a light-channeling panel. The linear light source has a light axis whose brightness near the mid-portion is higher than the brightness level on either side. The light-channeling panel is adjacent to the linear light source and is capable of concentrating more light in the end sections rather than the mid-portion of the light axis. The light-channeling panel is made from a plurality of panels, each made from materials having different light transparencies. The light transparency of the light-channeling panel near the central section of the light axis is lower than the light transparency at the end sections of the light axis. Hence, after light from the linear light source has passed through the light-channeling panel, a band of light having a more homogenous brightness level than the linear light source is produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventor: Jen-Shou Tseng