Repositionable As A Unit Patents (Class 362/144)
  • Patent number: 11718233
    Abstract: A vehicular lighted exterior door handle system includes a lighted exterior door handle assembly and a light module disposed at the door handle assembly. The light module includes at least three illumination sources linearly arranged at a circuit board and individually operable to emit light. With the door handle assembly mounted at a door of a vehicle, the individual illumination sources are operated responsive to a user input that is actuatable by a driver of the vehicle to activate a turn signal indicator system of the vehicle. With the door handle assembly mounted at the door of the vehicle, and when the illumination sources are operated to emit light responsive to actuation of the user input, an operation sequence of the individual illumination sources is varied between at least a first operation sequence and a second operation sequence based at least in part on movement of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2023
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory A. Huizen, Kenneth C. Peterson, Mitchell J. Wesley, Martin A. Hauff
  • Patent number: 11160339
    Abstract: An apparatus and method can be configured to adjustably block natural light and/or overhead lighting to provide a use desired amount of light within a particular work space. Embodiments can help permit a user to adjust the light affecting that user's work space so a common lighting arrangement affecting many different work spaces' within a common area (e.g. an office floor or large office room within a building, etc.) so that the illumination provided by one or more light sources to illuminate the common area can be adjusted to meet a particular user's preferences within a particular work space within that common work area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: James Harrison McKenzie, Tracy Wymer, Jeffrey Lee, David Fisher, James Eldon, David McClanahan
  • Patent number: 11103398
    Abstract: An overhead arm assembly for a patient support apparatus includes a user interface device. The user interface device has a support structure for supporting a personal digital assistant and a charging port for personal digital assistant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Zerhusen, Jonathan K. Moenter, Joshua L. Meyer, Robert D. Ross, John G. Byers, Matthew R. Knue
  • Patent number: 10351064
    Abstract: A vehicle visual recognition device comprises: a rotating body disposed at a vehicle exterior and supported by a vehicle body so as to be rotatable, and including a visual recognition unit that assists visual recognition of an occupant of a vehicle; an attachment member attached to the rotating body; and a projection unit including an optical member housed in a housing body, the housing body being retained by the attachment member, and the projection unit projecting an image outside the rotating body through the optical member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI-RIKA-DENKI-SEISAKUSHO
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Sawada, Hiroyuki Muto
  • Patent number: 9821743
    Abstract: In one or more embodiments, a door-opening alert system of a vehicle includes a light-emitting unit to be connected and at least partially external to the vehicle at a light-emitting position, a sensing unit to signal a door-opening event at the vehicle, and a control unit to communicate between the sensing unit and the light-emitting unit such that the light-emitting unit is to emit a light pattern indicative of a dimension of a side door of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kadin Zhang, Yong Zheng
  • Patent number: 9783102
    Abstract: A storage bin for a motor vehicle includes a storage bin storage compartment and a storage bin lid hingedly connected to the storage compartment. The lid includes a light source disposed to illuminate an interior of the storage compartment. A transmitter and a receiver are provided for providing an electrical current to the hinged storage bin light source. The transmitter is a first coil disposed in a first portion of a pivoting hinge assembly of the storage bin and the receiver is a second coil disposed in a second portion of the pivoting hinge assembly, the second coil electrically communicating with the light source. In use, a current is supplied to the light source when the transmitter and receiver are disposed adjacent to one another by pivoting the storage bin lid to an open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart C. Salter, Ali Ammar, Cornel Lewis Gardner
  • Patent number: 9738139
    Abstract: A visor bracket is provided to be mounted over a bracket aperture of an interior trim, where the visor bracket includes a bracket housing including a base and a side wall, the base defining a shaft aperture to receive there-through a support shaft of a visor panel, the side wall extending from the base and to be received through the bracket aperture along a mounting direction, and the visor bracket further includes an electrically-conducting material contacting the side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Xuezhi Jin, Tom Xu, Leo Chen
  • Patent number: 9403475
    Abstract: The invention provides a type of rear-view mirror with auxiliary lighting for reverse and open door alert lighting. The invention consists of an illuminator installed at the bottom of a rear-view mirror, with the illuminator supplied with a power supply unit, two power circuits, a control unit, and a light-emitting element. One of the power circuits is linked to the sensor in the reverse gear while the other power circuit is linked to the sensor in the door handle. Therefore, the invention will provide a better light source for drivers trying to back up their cars during nighttime as well as a wide range light source when doors open to alert upcoming traffic so as to prevent collision by upcoming motorcyclists or bicyclists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Inventor: Lung-Pin Cheng
  • Patent number: 9316837
    Abstract: A display stand is provided, the display stand comprising: a frame; a display holder attached to the frame, the display holder configured to hold a display in a substantially downward facing position; and, a mirror holder attached to the frame, the mirror holder located under the display holder, the minor holder configured to hold a mirror in a substantially upward facing position below the display and tilted at an angle thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: CHRISTIE DIGITAL SYSTEMS USA, INC.
    Inventor: Gordon Harris
  • Publication number: 20140362562
    Abstract: A mirror apparatus (10) includes a platform (12), a mirror support (14) depending from the platform (12), a mirror member (16) mounted to the mirror support (14) and an illuminating member (34) mounted about at least a peripheral segment of the mirror member (16) for providing illumination. The mirror member (16) may include a first mirror side (24) having a substantially planar mirror surface and a second mirror side (26) having a magnifying mirror surface. The mirror support (14) may be mounted for movement relative to the platform (12) between a first operative position and a second transport position. The mirror support (14) may be mounted for pivotal movement relative to the platform (12) between the first operative position and the second transport position. The mirror support (14) may be adapted to be releasably secured in the first operative position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: Kam Fai Fung
  • Patent number: 8556447
    Abstract: A mountable, adjustable, and removable personal mirror system, which allows the user to obtain close-in or far-away panoramic views. The user can adjust the position (how close together), the angle, and the orientation (e.g., side-to-side or top-and-bottom) of the mirrors. By so adjusting the mirrors, the user will see a much wider variety of visual information than with currently existing personal mirrors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Andre J. Griggs
  • Patent number: 8393766
    Abstract: A lighted exterior mirror assembly includes a housing that houses a reflectance element that is movably positionable by the driver of a vehicle to adjust its rearward field of view when the lighted exterior rearview mirror assembly is attached at a side of the vehicle. A ground illumination lamp is disposed at a portion of the lighted exterior mirror assembly and separate from the reflectance element. The ground illumination lamp is a substantially moisture-impervious unit having an enclosure and a lens that is permanently joined with the enclosure. The ground illumination lamp includes a light source disposed within the enclosure behind the lens and, when the lighted exterior mirror assembly is attached at the side of the vehicle and when the light source is electrically powered, the light source emits light that passes through the lens and illuminates a ground area adjacent the side of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Manga Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd W. Pastrick
  • Patent number: 8215811
    Abstract: A lighted exterior rearview mirror system includes an exterior rearview mirror assembly including a reflective element and an electrically-operable actuator. The exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a breakaway joint assembly. The reflective element has an electrically powered heater operable to remove ice or dew from the reflective element. The exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a turn signal indicator lamp that has a light source. The lamp is included in the exterior rearview mirror assembly and unaffected by operation of the actuator. The breakaway joint assembly includes a wire-way through which a wire cable passes. The wire cable includes wires for operating the actuator, the heater and the lamp. The light source includes at least one light emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Linda K. Molenkamp, Roger L. Koops
  • Patent number: 7997777
    Abstract: A lighted exterior rearview mirror system includes an exterior rearview mirror assembly including a reflective element and an electrically-operable actuator. The exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a breakaway joint assembly. The reflective element has an electrically powered heater operable to remove ice or dew from the reflective element. The exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a turn signal indicator lamp that has a light source and a lens. The lamp is included in the exterior rearview mirror assembly and unaffected by operation of the actuator. The breakaway joint assembly includes a wire-way through which a wire cable passes. The wire cable includes wires for operating the actuator, the heater and the lamp. The lens of the lamp has a portion that faces rearward of the vehicle and a portion that wraps around an outward side of a casing of the exterior rearview mirror assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Linda K. Molenkamp, Roger L. Koops
  • Publication number: 20100309159
    Abstract: The invention relates to a restroom mirror with a housing comprising a mirror area (20, 32) providing a concave mirror optical effect at a second flat side opposite a first flat side, wherein fastening and adjusting means (10, 12) are disposed at the housing such that the housing can be fixed at a horizontal or vertical surface and can be rotated, swiveled and/or tilted through manual and/or mechanical actuation, wherein a flat screen is provided (16) at the first flat side inside the housing, said screen being designed for the display of electronic image signals, wherein the housing, which is designed to be sealed for spray water and/or water vapor resistance and/or for compatibility with humid areas, can be moved from a first observation position of the flat screen to a second observation position of the mirror area through said actuation and the fastening means comprise a hinge (12); for facilitating the rotating, swiveling or tilting, said hinge as the central connection having cabling running therethroug
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: MIRROR IMAGE AG
    Inventor: Oliver Roettcher
  • Patent number: 7740370
    Abstract: A modular storage container adapted to hold cosmetics or other small items in a stylish and sleek way is provided. The modular storage container can include a base unit having a first side and a second side, one of a mirror and magnifying device being arranged on the first side of the base unit, an illumination assembly for illuminating the mirror, and a removable cover. The removable cover can be adapted to secure to the first side of the base unit and to protect one of the mirror and magnifying device in a first secured position of the cover. The second side of the base unit is capable of being secured to one or more of a plurality of modular storage units in a stacked relationship. The second side of the base unit can be capable of being secured to the cover in a second secured position of the cover. The first side of the base unit can be adapted to secure to a first end of the cover and the second side of the base unit can be adapted to secure to a second end of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Sleek Stax, LLC
    Inventors: Joan E. Campbell, Barry E. Claybrook, Bradley S. Kell, Stephen C. Antonucci
  • Publication number: 20090323319
    Abstract: A cosmetic case with a light-emitting diode is provided with a pivoting unit and a control unit on an upper cover. The control unit positions the pivoting unit on the upper cover. Releasing the pivoting unit from the control unit can make the pivoting unit pivot with respect to the upper cover. The control unit supplies electric energy to the pivoting unit to make the light-emitting diode of the pivoting unit emit light for illumination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventor: Hui-Nan Lin
  • Patent number: 7334925
    Abstract: A lighted exterior rearview mirror system for a vehicle comprises an exterior rearview mirror assembly adapted for mounting to a side of a vehicle. The exterior mirror assembly includes a reflective element having a heater and a breakaway joint assembly having stationary member and a pivoting member that comprises a bracket supporting an electrically-operable actuator for positioning the reflective element about at least one axis. The exterior mirror assembly comprises a ground illumination or a signal light. The breakaway joint assembly includes a wire-way through which a wire cable passes carrying vehicle control signals and electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Todd W Pastrick, Linda K Molenkamp, Roger L Koops
  • 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: 7152991
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Wenger Corporation
    Inventors: Michael D. Jines, Michael Smedstad, Steven E. Wiese
  • Patent number: 7093965
    Abstract: A lighting assembly for an interior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle includes an illumination source, a reflective element and a lens. The illumination source is operable to radiate radiation including visible radiation and infrared radiation. The radiation from the illumination source impinges on the reflective element. The reflective element reflects reflected radiation toward the lens. The reflective element is adapted to at least partially transmit the infrared radiation so that reduced reflection of the infrared radiation occurs toward the lens. The lens may include an optical element which functions to substantially transmit the visible radiation through the optical element and the lens while at least partially reflecting the infrared radiation generally away from the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Roger L Veldman
  • Patent number: 7093959
    Abstract: An outdoor lamp with projection range adjustment having a freely adjustable lampshade for restricting light projection range of the lamp, thereby controlling light pollution, comprises a lamp partially covered by a shell body and a lampshade pivotally mounted on the lamp. Two parallel bottom edges of the shell body extend on two corresponding lateral walls of the lamp with a predetermined angle, so that the lampshade can freely rotate about a rear portion of the lamp in a range of the predetermined angle. Further, two lateral surfaces of the lamp are each provided with an arced angle adjustment tooth row, and two lateral inner walls of the lampshade are each provided with a projected dot for engaging a corresponding angle adjustment tooth row, whereby a stepless angle adjustment can be realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Frank Tsao
  • Patent number: 7090378
    Abstract: A portable travel mirror device includes a base, a handle pivotably mounted to the base, and a dual mirror assembly mounted to the handle which is pivotable and telescopically extendable between compact transport and upright use configurations, and includes a circular primary mirror frame holding a magnifying mirror encircled by a ring-shaped lamp energized by a power source within the base, and overlain by a diffuser ring. A secondary mirror pivotably and swivelably attached to the primary mirror frame has a different magnification factor, e.g., 1×, and is pivotable upwards from a travel position overlying and protecting the primary mirror to an upright use position, and is also swivelable into contact with the primary mirror frame, whereby light from the lamp is transmitted through the diffuser ring and a transparent secondary mirror bezel to illuminate objects in front of the primary or secondary mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: Zlatko Zadro
  • Patent number: 6926431
    Abstract: The invention relates to an external rearview mirror having an illumination source capable of illuminating various portions of an vehicle and the surrounding area depending upon the operational status of the vehicle. The illumination source is adjustable to selectively illuminate predetermined areas of the vehicle and the surrounding area. Two sets of light-emitting diodes of selected colors can be arranged and controlled so that the first set of LEDs can be selectively illuminated as a turn signal indicator, and the first set and second set can be selectively illuminated so that the combined illumination forms a white light suitable for illumination, such as a “puddle light” or backup light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Magna Donnelly Mirrors North America, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Ian Boddy, Kris D. Brown, Kenneth C. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6685348
    Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror system for a vehicle comprises an exterior mirror assembly having a fixed portion and a movable portion. The fixed portion is configured to mount to a side of the vehicle. The movable portion includes a reflective element and is movable about the fixed portion between a normal viewing position where the movable portion is extended outwardly from the vehicle and a folded position where the movable portion is folded toward the side of the vehicle. The exterior mirror assembly includes at least one light assembly projecting a light pattern from the exterior mirror assembly. A proximity detector is preferably provided that actuates a powerfold mechanism when the proximity detector detects an object so as to move the movable portion from the normal viewing position to the folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Michiel P. van de Ven, Peter J. Whitehead, Rick Mousseau, Niall R. Lynam
  • Publication number: 20030184996
    Abstract: An attachable book mirror device enables the reader of a textual document to view the facial expressions of the young adult, child, toddler, or baby who is listening in close proximity to the reader. The listener can also view the mechanical lip movements of the reader to thereby shorten process of learning to read. The attachable book mirror includes a shell for housing the optically human visual spectrum reflective material that is pivotally connected to a base used to attach to the covers of books or any other suitable document. The reflective material can be adjusted in any allowable position, holding its last position due to certain equal but opposite forces that are generated by certain internal components such as a spring contained within the base that helps create a lasting static contact frictional force. An adjustable light may be pivotally attached to the book mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Patrick T. Marshall
  • Patent number: 6604836
    Abstract: An illuminated mirror is provided that has a first light source of a first color and a second light source of a second color, a reflective surface adapted to be illuminated by the light sources, and a switch. The switch selectively controls the flow of power to the first light source, the second light source, or both light sources. Controlling the flow of power to the first light source simulates home light. Controlling the flow of power to the second light source simulates office light. Controlling the flow of power to both light sources simulates Day light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Conair Corporation
    Inventors: Vito J. Carlucci, Richard Neil Tobin
  • Patent number: 6554437
    Abstract: A make-up or vanity mirror which is adapted to be mounted in a vehicle in such a manner that it may be optimally positioned for use by the driver/passenger without impairing the driver's vision when the vehicle is in motion. The mirror assembly may be added as an aftermarket accessory to existing vehicles or may be installed as original equipment. The mirror is mounted on a flexible extension arm which is secured to a base which may be quickly secured to the posts of the head rest on a typical seat or to another portion of the vehicle. The mirror may include a peripheral lighting system to provide localized illumination and a microphone and speaker assembly to allow communication with a cellular phone. The mirror assembly also includes a cellular phone holder, display screen and keypad to allow a user to operate and access the cellular telephone in a complete “hands-free” mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventor: Christian von Glasow
  • Patent number: 6533433
    Abstract: A mirror assembly includes a mirror that can be moved up and down by simply operating appropriate buttons and includes a light that can be dimmed as desired by operating a dimmer switch on a base unit. A storage drawer is also included and the angle of the mirror with respect to a user can also be easily adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventors: Phyllis E. Stark, Sherri Ann LeClair
  • Publication number: 20030031023
    Abstract: An exterior sideview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a housing or casing and a reflective element, which is supported in the casing. The casing includes a storage space, which provides storage for at least one accessory. The accessory is retrievable from the storage space and useable exteriorly of the mirror assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventor: Barry W. Hutzel
  • Patent number: 6416208
    Abstract: An exterior mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a signal light that provides an advanced notification system to approaching vehicles that the driver of the vehicle intends to turn or make a lane change. The exterior mirror assembly includes a housing with a reflective element and a positioning device for adjusting the position of the reflective element in the housing, and at least one signal light positioned in the housing. The signal light includes a light source and a light conduiting member which is adapted to project a pattern of light from the housing and yet restrict light from extending into the vehicle so that a driver seated in the vehicle does not directly observe the pattern of light. The light source may be provided by a light pipe which is optically coupled to a remote light source located, for example, in the vehicle. Preferably, the pattern of light extends at least rearwardly and laterally from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Michiel P. van de Ven, Peter J. Whitehead, Rick Mousseau, Niall R. Lynam
  • Publication number: 20020063437
    Abstract: A stamped reinforced visor elbow having a metal reinforcing member that holds electrical conductors encased in a molded polymeric material. The reinforcing member is generally U-shaped in cross section and can be formed by stamping. The reinforcing member provides support for the visor elbow while providing a channel for electrical conductors. The reinforced visor elbow is made by forming a metal reinforcing member through a stamping die, placing one or more conductors into a recess created in the reinforcing member and the steps of molding a polymeric material over the reinforcing member while holding the wires to form the reinforced visor elbow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Publication date: May 30, 2002
    Inventors: Jason Mulder, Michael Lanser
  • Patent number: 6368114
    Abstract: An operation for insert-molding bus bars 17 into an L-shape stay 16 to insert a horizontal shaft portion 16a of the stay 16 into a visor holder 5 is performed such that a male terminal portion 17a of the bus bars 17 of the horizontal shaft portion 16a is engaged to a female terminal 18 of a sunvisor-side connector 19. Moreover, an operation for joining a stay holder 22 to a roof panel 1 is performed such that a male terminal portion 17b of the bus bars 17 of a vertical shaft portion 16b is engaged to a female terminal 30 of a car-body-side connector 31. In another embodiment (FIGS. 11-13), an operation for integrally joining a sunvisor-side connector 19 to a stay holder 22 to join the stay holder 22 to a roof panel 1 is performed such that the sunvisor-side connector 19 is automatically joined to a car-body-side connector 31 floatably held by a connector holder 29 fixed to a car body member 28.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignees: Autonetworks Technologies, Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Takuya Inoue
  • Patent number: 6319014
    Abstract: A holder for the securing of an electrified sun visor at a vehicle has a mount for a securing arm of the sun visor and mounting means for mounting the holder at the vehicle. The holder serves for the connection of a vehicle-side wiring harness to a conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Tarik Gunay, Wulf Bramesfeld, Udo Diedrich
  • Patent number: 6305810
    Abstract: A device for viewing or observing an infant within a rearwardly facing infant car safety seat disposed upon the rear seat of a vehicle such as an automobile. The viewing device comprises a base unit which is attachable to the safety seat, and an elongate, bendable stem, the proximal end of which is releasably attached to the base unit. The viewing device further comprises a reflective surface which is attached to the distal end of the stem. The stem may be bended or deformed to maintain the reflective surface at a selected orientation relative to the safety seat, and more particularly to the infant residing within the safety seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Elizabeth A. Mercado
  • Patent number: 6276821
    Abstract: An exterior mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a signal light that provides an advanced notification system to approaching vehicles that the driver of the vehicle intends to turn or make a lane change. The exterior mirror assembly includes a housing with a reflective element and a positioning device for adjusting the position of the reflective element in the housing, and at least one signal light positioned in the housing. The signal light includes a light source and a light conduit member which is adapted to project a pattern of light from the housing and yet restrict light from extending into the vehicle so that a driver seated in the vehicle does not directly observe the pattern of light. The light source may be provided by a light pipe which is optically coupled to a remote light source located, for example, in the vehicle. Preferably, the pattern of light extends at least rearwardly and laterally from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Michiel P. van de Ven, Peter J. Whitehead, Rick Mousseau, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 6273585
    Abstract: An improved bathroom-use mirror lamp having a mirror lamp and gimbal frame that are capable of a flexible range of angular adjustment. A gimbal frame is situated on the upper extent of the lower base, and a mirror lamp is mounted to the gimbal frame, with the gimbal frame containing internally routed electrical wiring. The electrical wiring of the mirror lamp is routed from the interior section of the mirror lamp through the two lateral arms of the gimbal frame and extended out at the bottom end of the lower base. The gimbal frame and mirror lamp each have a laterally disposed semicircular shaped recess at a connection section with a position limiting ball bearing in each. When the mirror lamp is rotated 180 degrees, the position limiting ball bearings become restricted against two edges of the insertion conjointment slots, causing the mirror lamp to become incapable of further rotation and preventing the twisting of the electrical wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Wen-Chang Wu
  • Patent number: 6264339
    Abstract: A make-up or vanity mirror which is adapted to be mounted in a vehicle in such a manner that it may be optimally positioned for use by the driver/passenger without impairing the driver's vision when the vehicle is in motion. The mirror assembly may be added as an aftermarket accessory to existing vehicles or may be installed as original equipment. The mirror is mounted on a flexible extension arm which is secured to a base which may be quickly secured to the posts of the head rest on a typical seat or to another portion of the vehicle. The mirror may include a peripheral lighting system to provide localized illumination. The power source for the lighting system may be self-contained with a battery pack mounted in the clamp base and a wire carried in the interior of the flexible extension arm. It is also possible to house the battery pack directly in the mirror housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: Christian von Glasow
  • Patent number: 6203161
    Abstract: A vanity mirror assembly is pivotally mounted within a recess in a visor body and pivots downwardly and rotates from side to side, thereby pivoting on generally mutually orthogonal axes to provide a high degree of adjustability for use of the vanity mirror without requiring movement of the visor. In a preferred embodiment, illumination means are provided to facilitate use of the vanity mirror in low ambient light conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: David B. Busch, Robert C. Fitzpatrick, Rick Alan Anderson
  • Patent number: 6139083
    Abstract: A vehicle sun visor assembly includes a shaft configured for mounting in a vehicle. The shaft includes in-molded first and second electrical wires extending longitudinally along the shaft. The first and second electrical wires include corresponding first and second exposed contact surfaces spaced circumferentially about the shaft. The sun visor body is pivotally and slidably mounted to the shaft and includes first and second mating contacts positioned for selective engagement with the first and second exposed contact surfaces only when the sun visor is positioned at a predetermined pivotal and longitudinal position with respect to the shaft for providing electrical power to a vanity mirror or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Lear-Donnelly Overhead Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas A. Fischer, Bradley D. Miller
  • Patent number: 6126302
    Abstract: A vanity mirror assembly including a track having a first end. The track is moveable between a stowed and an extended position. A mirror extends from the first end of the track. A hinge is between the first end of the track and the mirror, whereby the mirror may rotate between a position parallel to said track and a position in angular relation thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Jack E. Corn
  • Patent number: 6039455
    Abstract: An infant observation mirror 10 is attachable to a rear-facing infant car seat 200. A fastening assembly 20 includes a C-clamp which attaches to the upper edge of the back of the car seat. Alternative versions of the fastening assembly include a modified alligator clamp and a resilient spring clamp. A first end of a curved arm assembly 50 extends from the fastening assembly over the car seat. A preferred curved arm assembly provides a resilient skeleton the shape of which may be adjusted and a soft protective covering. A mirror assembly 60 is supported by the second end of the curved arm assembly, and typically provides a light-weight mylar plastic mirror. An adjustment assembly 70 allows rotation of the mirror about a horizontal and a vertical axis. A lighting assembly 90 provides soft lighting to illuminate the child during night driving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Karen Sorenson
  • Patent number: 6039448
    Abstract: A new side rear view mirror device for providing lighting thereon for aiding the visibility of the driver and others. The inventive device includes a housing with a cover lens covering a front opening in the housing. The cover lens has an upper lens and a lower lens. The upper lens of the cover lens is generally transparent while the lower lens of the cover lens has a translucent colored front region and a generally transparent bottom region. A reflector member is provided in the interior of the housing and has upper and lower reflector portions. Upper and lower light sources are also provided in the interior of the housing. The upper light source is mounted to the upper reflector portion while the lower light source is mounted to the lower reflector portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Florin I. Oprea
  • Patent number: 5975708
    Abstract: A vanity mirror assembly is pivotally mounted within a recess in a visor body and pivots downwardly and rotates from side to side, thereby pivoting on generally mutually orthogonal axes to provide a high degree of adjustability for use of the vanity mirror without requiring movement of the visor. In a preferred embodiment, illumination means are provided to facilitate use of the vanity mirror in low ambient light conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Robert C. Fitzpatrick, David B. Busch
  • Patent number: 5927792
    Abstract: A visor display includes a the visor body having a window to which a display is movably mounted such that the display, when the visor is in one of a raised or lowered use position, is visible through the window and, when the visor is moved to the other of the raised or lowered positions, the display can be moved to be directly visible. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the visor display includes a display housing movable into a storage pocket in the visor body and movable from a closed position where the display is aligned with a window formed through the visor body to an open position where the display is visible when the visor window is adjacent the vehicle roof. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the visor window was formed in a vanity mirror in an area of the vanity mirror which is otherwise covered with a reflective material such that the display is viewed through the front surface of the mirror window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Welling, Michael J. Suman
  • Patent number: 5930060
    Abstract: A mirror device includes a mirror attached to a frame which is pivotally coupled to a support at a pivot shaft. A cover is secured to the frame and made of electric conductive material. A conductive fastener is secured to the cover. One or more light bulbs are disposed in the cover and coupled to a contact switch which is coupled to the conductive fastener for coupling the light bulb to the cover and for allowing the contact switch to be actuated via the cover. A bracket is secured to the cover for supporting the light bulbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: Sen Tien Shih
  • Patent number: 5906424
    Abstract: A lighted visor mirror assembly is provided. The lighted visor mirror assembly includes a mirror having a first side, a light source, and a door. The light source is located adjacent to the first side of the mirror. The door has a translucent portion and an opaque portion. As the door is moved from a closed position covering the mirror and the light source, to an open position uncovering the mirror, the translucent portion of the door is positioned with respect to the light source such that the intensity of the light from the light source passing through the translucent portion of the door is increased by progressively uncovering the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Don Mangas Peterson
  • Patent number: 5871251
    Abstract: A visor display includes a the visor body having a window to which a display is movably mounted such that the display, when the visor is in one of a raised or lowered use position, is visible through the window and, when the visor is moved to the other of the raised or lowered positions, the display can be moved to be directly visible. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the visor display includes a display housing movable into a storage pocket in the visor body and movable from a closed position where the display is aligned with a window formed through the visor body to an open position where the display is visible when the visor window is adjacent the vehicle roof. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the visor window was formed in a vanity mirror in an area of the vanity mirror which is otherwise covered with a reflective material such that the display is viewed through the front surface of the mirror window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas L. Welling, Michael J. Suman
  • Patent number: 5871275
    Abstract: A mirror system for a vehicle includes at least one exterior mirror having a reflective element, a housing for the reflective element, a positioning device for selectively positioning the reflective element, and a light for emitting light generally downwardly from the mirror housing on an area adjacent the side of the vehicle. A control is responsive to the vehicle reverse gear selector being in reverse gear for causing the positioning device to position the reflective element to a downwardly tilted position, wherein the driver can view an area adjacent a side of the vehicle. The control actuates the light when the reflective element is in the downwardly tilted position in order to illuminate objects in that area. In a preferred embodiment, the control actuates the light through a lockout circuit which normally allows the light to be activated only when the vehicle is not operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Desmond J. O'Farrell, Roger L. Veldman
  • Patent number: 5725295
    Abstract: A lighting booth for providing varying light conditions. The lighting booth includes a stand, a mirror mounted to the stand, and first and second panels mounted to the stand adjacent the mirror, each panel defining a plurality of apertures. The lighting booth further includes a lighting system having a plurality of light sources and an adjustable power source. Each light source is coupled with at least one aperture and with the adjustable power source for selecting the intensity of the light emitted thereby such that the light emitted by an outlet end of each bundle may be adjusted so as to provide selectable variation in lighting conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Chanel S.A.
    Inventors: Dominique Moncourtois, Francis Vandenbussche