Abstract: A mirror assembly security system for a vehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly and a light module removably positioned within the exterior mirror housing. The light module is moisture impervious and includes an enclosure, a light-emitting opening in the enclosure, a light source in the enclosure radiating light through the light-emitting opening, and a cover for the light-emitting opening adapted to direct the light from the light source to an area adjacent the vehicle to create a security area. The light source may be supported by a pair of electrical contacts provided on the inner surface of the enclosure. The enclosure wall supporting the electrical contacts is preferably flexible, in order to allow the light source to be captured by the contacts. Attachment of the cover adds rigidity to the enclosure to prevent further flexure of the enclosure wall in order to firmly retain the light source.

Abstract: A lighting device for attachment to a motor vehicle inside a housing 4. One or more light emitting diodes 9 which emit substantially white light are employed as lighting emitters. On account of the small amount of waste heat of the light-emitting diodes 9 the lighting device can be particularly easily integrated into existing subassemblies of the motor vehicle, in particular into the outside mirrors, inside mirror, trim strips and door handles, and can serve to illuminate the region around the vehicle or the interior of the vehicle.

Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly for vehicles has a plurality of modules, preferably including at least two selected from a housing, a mirror element, an actuator, a mirror support, and a light module. The mirror element is preferably supported on and adjustable by the actuator module. The mirror support supports the actuator within the housing. The actuator preferably has a least one electrical drive motor for adjusting the mirror element within the housing. The modules are preferably joined together by plug-type connectors.

Abstract: A rear view mirror having a first portion and a second portion. The reflectance of the first portion is variably controlled. The reflectance of the second portion is also variably controlled, though independently from the first portion.

Abstract: A floodlight that is adapted to projecting a pattern of light from the housing of a vehicle exterior mirror on an area adjacent a portion of the vehicle in order to create a lighted security zone in that area. The pattern extends laterally onto the vehicle and downwardly and rearwardly of the mirror housing. In this manner, the lighted security zone extends from the vehicle door to the rear of the vehicle. An actuator for the floodlight includes a base unit in the vehicle and a remote transmitter wherein the base unit is responsive to a signal from the remote transmitter in order to actuate the floodlight. The actuator may further include a lockout device in order to prevent actuation of the floodlight during operation of the vehicle. A signal light is additionally included in the exterior mirror housing in order to project a second pattern of light from the mirror housing extending laterally away from the vehicle and rearwardly of the vehicle.

Abstract: A rear-view mirror device is provided that includes a transparent or semitransparent casing having a coating layer applied thereon. At least a light-transmissible portion is formed on the casing by removing a predetermined portion of the coating layer on the casing and a light source is installed within the casing for generating light to be emitted from the light-transmissible portion to the outside of the casing, allowing the rear-view mirror device to serve as a turning signal. The casing is then attached with a cover having a mirror piece, so as to enclose the light source in the casing.

Abstract: A lighted vehicular mirror assembly includes a mirror case, a reflective element, a support for mounting the assembly on a vehicle, and two lamp assemblies, each having a light source, a reflector member, and a lens. Each reflector member is shaped to direct light emitted by the light source to form a pattern of light directed generally downwardly and rearwardly when the light source is electrically activated. The reflector and lens in each lamp assembly work with one another to collect and direct light to different areas of the vehicle, preferably the lap areas of the driver and front seat passenger of the vehicle. Each reflector member preferably minimizes at least one of light bending, shaping and diffusing of light by its respective lens.

Abstract: A light mounting assembly for holding a light on a semi-truck. The light mounting assembly includes at least one elongate member. The elongate member has a first end and a second end. The elongate member has a generally planar top and bottom side. The elongate member has an opening therein. The opening is generally adjacent to the first end. The elongate member has a protruding member integrally coupled thereto. The protruding member is located on the top side and positioned generally adjacent to the second end. The protruding member has a top surface having a well extending therein. The bottom side of the elongate member has a hole therein. The hole extends into the well. A fastening means fastens the elongate member to the mirror of a semi-truck. A light is elongate and has a first end and a second end. The first end is removably mounted in the protruding member. The light is operationally coupled to a power supply.

Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly for vehicles includes a mirror case having a reflective element and a carrier positioned in the mirror case. The mirror case is adapted to mount to a vehicle. The reflective element includes a substrate, with a reflective coating on one side of the substrate, and a window therethrough. The carrier has a display element for displaying one or more indicia through the window to define a display area on the reflective element. The carrier comprises a plate member, with a first portion and a second portion offset rearwardly from the reflective element and from the first portion. The second portion includes the display element. Preferably, the interior rearview mirror assembly further includes at least one light assembly for displaying the indicia through said window so that it is visible to an occupant of the vehicle.

Abstract: A rear vision mirror with a cold light direction indicator includes a rear vision mirror, a cold light direction indicator and a protecting cover. The rear vision mirror is a case with a reflector and is firmly secured to a proper position on a car. The cold light direction indicator is a case with a reflector, and is firmly secured to a surface of the case of the rear vision mirror, and is electrically connected to a power source and control device. The protecting cover covers on a surface of the case of the rear vision mirror, and the cold light direction indicator therewithin can expose out of the cover from a via hole. Therefore, an action of the cold light direction indicator can be viewed in a horizontal direction by drivers at front, lateral, or lateral rear sides, light from the cold light direction indicator is soft and almost no power is consumed. No flash light affecting human eyes emits.

Abstract: An interior rearview mirror system for use in a vehicle includes a light-emitting information display providing a variety of information to the driver or a passenger in the vehicle. The light-emitting information display includes a light-emitting display element providing information concerning one or more of vehicle related status or warning information including supplemental inflatable restraint system information, vehicle accessory information, communication information, directional information, weather information, traffic information, and toll booth information. Preferably, the display includes indicia and at least one light source for backlighting the indicia such that information is displayed by light transmission and/or spectral absorption.

Abstract: A light assembly for exterior rearview mirrors of vehicles has a support and one or more first LEDs provided as luminous bodies arranged on the support. Two or more second LEDs are provided as luminous bodies and arranged on the support. The first LEDs have a current intensity that is higher than the current intensity of the second LEDs. At least one of the first LEDs is series connected to at least two of the second LEDs, and the at least two second LEDs are parallel connected to one another.

Abstract: An outside rear view mirror is provided for vehicles. The outside rear view mirror has a mirror housing having an interior and exterior. There is provided at least one light exit opening in the mirror housing. Also included is a repeating flashing light having at least one light source associated with the light exit opening in the mirror housing. A luminous film is located on the exterior of the mirror housing. The light exit opening is filled at least partially with a light guide connected with the light source.

Abstract: The present application includes a vehicle mirror which includes an approach light in the attachment assembly. The approach light is a single light source positionable in relation to predetermined inputs for directing light to various areas, depending on the inputs. Additionally, an intercom system is provided for communication between the interior of the vehicle and exterior of the vehicle, by way of the vehicle mirror. Also, a remote sensor is utilized to set predetermined memory positions of interior vehicle components such as seats, steering columns and brake pedals. This allows customization of the interior components upon an individual's approach to the vehicle.

Abstract: A mirror assembly for a vehicle, the assembly being provided a mirror, a light assembly having a lens, a visor for accommodating the mirror and the light assembly, with the visor having a visor opening into which the lens is fitted, a connection element for movably connecting an end of the visor opening and an end of the lens, and a bias element for biasing the light assembly such that the visor opening is substantially closed with the lens.

Abstract: In a vehicle lamp (7) whose light exit opening (5) is covered by an elongate translucent light exit lens (9) which serves as a light guide for a light source (14) which is arranged at one (12) of its narrow end edges, in such a way that it guides light given off by the light source (14) in the longitudinal direction in such a fashion that a part thereof issues at the narrow end edge (20) in opposite relationship to the coupling-in side while a further part of said light is irradiated through the outside surface (10) of the light exit lens (9), to improve the light output it is provided that the light exit lens (9) is curved transversely with respect to the longitudinal direction and that its inside surface (24) has an optically effective structure (26, . . . , 26) which focuses the light issuing through the outside surface (10) in the cross-sections which are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction into a preferred angular range.

Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly security system for a vehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly. The exterior mirror assembly includes a security light assembly, which projects a pattern of light from the assembly on an area adjacent a door of the vehicle in order to create a lighted security zone in the area. The security light assembly includes an enclosure, with a light-transmitting opening in the enclosure, and a light source for radiating light through the light-transmitting opening. The security light assembly also includes a cover for the light-transmitting opening, which comprises an optical lens having at least one non-planar optical surface.

Abstract: An exterior rear view mirror assembly is disclosed which incorporates a warning light actuatable in conjunction with the vehicle turn signals to alert adjacent motor vehicles of an anticipated turn. The warning light is integrated into a first decorative cover member and may be connected to the vehicle turn signal circuit by way of connectable electrical leads or by an integrally formed plug and outlet arrangement. A second decorative cover member may be substituted for the first decorative cover member when it is not desired to incorporate the warning light.

Abstract: A mirror assembly security system for a vehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly and a light module removably positioned within the exterior mirror housing. The light module is moisture impervious and includes an enclosure, a light-transmitting opening in the enclosure facing generally downwardly and/or rearwardly of the vehicle, a cover for the light-transmitting opening, and a light source in the enclosure radiating light through the light-transmitting opening. The light source may be received in a socket which removably engages another opening in the enclosure. In this manner, the light source may be replaced by removing the module from the exterior mirror housing, removing the socket from the enclosure and replacing the light source. The enclosure and mirror housing preferably are configured to self-retain the module in the exterior mirror moving with no, or fewer than one or two, separate fasteners.

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.

Abstract: A lighting device (26) for arrangement on the external or internal rear view mirror of a motor vehicle is provided with a light source (27), the light rays of which emerge at a mirror housing opening and are deflected at a transparent light refraction element (33) arranged in the beam path. The plate-like light refraction element (33) has, at least on one side, a surface structure (36) by means of which the light refraction element is divided into several light refraction zones. To achieve a deflection of the light into a preferred direction the light refraction element (33) is designed in the manner of a Fresnel prism (33), the light refraction zones corresponding to prism zones of a prism body which are pushed together in stepwise manner. To intensify the deflection of the light beam into the preferred direction a decentralized condenser lens (31) may be arranged in front of the Fresnel prism (33).

Abstract: An external mirror assembly for an automotive vehicle has a shell having an aperture. A mirror is carried by the shell, substantially occluding the aperture. The mirror assembly has a lighting element having an electroluminescent film electrically connected to a triggering device for energizing the film and illuminating the mirror assembly. The triggering device includes first and second switches for generating a series of high and low frequency pulses and a control device connected to each of the switch for triggering each of the switches to illuminate the lighting element in either a flashing or continuous pattern.

Abstract: An external rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a base for attachment to a vehicle, a mirror head connected to the base, and a holder for a mirror glass. A blinker light on the mirror head provides light which is radiated rearwardly, as viewed in the direction of forward travel of the vehicle. The rearward light is radiated at an angle of at least 55 degrees relative to a straight line that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and that substantially extends beyond the contour of the mirror head.

Abstract: A floodlight that is adapted to projecting a pattern of light from the housing of a vehicle exterior mirror on an area adjacent a portion of the vehicle in order to create a lighted security zone in that area. The pattern extends laterally onto the vehicle and downwardly and rearwardly of the mirror housing. In this manner, the lighted security zone extends from the vehicle door to the rear of the vehicle. An actuator for the floodlight includes a base unit in the vehicle and a remote transmitter wherein the base unit is responsive to a signal from the remote transmitter in order to actuate the floodlight. The actuator may further include a lockout device in order to prevent actuation of the floodlight during operation of the vehicle. A signal light is additionally included in the exterior mirror housing in order to project a second pattern of light from the mirror housing extending laterally away from the vehicle and rearwardly of the vehicle.

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.

Abstract: A side flashing lamp for fitting into a cover cap of a motor vehicle external rear view mirror includes a lamp housing with a light exit opening and a translucent cover which closes the opening. The translucent cover is curved in such a way that it extends from the outward side, that is remote from the vehicle, in a continuous transition into the front side of the cover cap, which faces approximately in the direction of forward travel of the vehicle. The lamp has at least one light source in the lamp housing and at least one reflector for focusing the light of the light source in a main radiation direction which faces substantially in the direction of forward travel of the vehicle. The lamp includes at least one further light source with a reflector which focuses the light thereof transversely with respect to the main radiation direction.

Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror for vehicles has a mirror head housing having a light-transmitting plate arranged therein. At least one lighting unit is received in the mirror head housing and has at least one light source emitting light rays so as to pass through the light-transmitting plate to the exterior of mirror head housing. At least one reflector is positioned between the at least one light source and the light-transmitting plate. The at least one reflector has at least one opening, and the at least one light source is positioned in the at least one opening. The at least one lighting unit has a lighting unit housing and the at least one light source is arranged in the lighting unit housing which is received in a receptacle of the mirror head housing.

Abstract: A mirror apparatus for displaying a supplemental turn signal includes a housing, a reflective mirror glass, and a display section. The display section is positioned to direct a chevron-like display having a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes which produce a light signal such as a flashing turn signal through the mirror glass. By locally removing selective portions of the reflective surface, the mirror glass provides a reflective view in the conventional manner and the transparent portion allows direct transmission of the light signal from the display section. In another embodiment the mirror apparatus takes advantage of a flexible circuit board to conform the LEDs to the shape of the housing such that the light signal is displayed adjacent to the mirror glass.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically adjusting the angle of a rotatable side view mirror of a vehicle having a trailer coupled thereto includes transducers attached to the vehicle for transmitting signals toward the trailer and for receiving signals reflected by the trailer. A control unit includes memory for storing dimensional information and a control circuit for generating a mirror control signal for controlling rotation of the rotatable side view mirror. The control circuit is operative to control at least one of the transducers to determine an angle between the vehicle and the trailer based on a time required for signals transmitted by the respective controlled at least one transducer to be reflected back to the respective at least one controlled transducer. The control circuit generates the mirror control signal based on the determined angle.

Abstract: Provided a vehicle exterior lamp capable of illuminating the ground surrounding a vehicle. When returning to a predetermined position of a parking lot, a road or the like where a vehicle has been parked, a switch of a transmitter is operated. By doing so, the vehicle is illuminated in a predetermined color and a selected mode, and the vicinity of a door of the vehicle is illuminated by this light, so that the condition of the ground can be confirmed. Particularly, the color of the light, emitted from a light-emitting source, can be arbitrarily set, and the setting can be made, taking the brightness and the saving of the energy into consideration. Even if discriminating information, such as a code, is not provided between the transmitter and a receiver, the color of the illumination of the vehicle can be discriminated from that of other vehicles.

Abstract: A signaling assembly is described and which includes a semitransparent substrate, a light emitting assembly which is disposed in spaced relationship relative to the semitransparent substrate and which when energized emits electromagnetic radiation; and an opaque light orientation assembly which is positioned adjacent to the semitransparent substrate and which permits electromagnetic radiation to pass through the semitransparent substrate at an oblique orientation.

Abstract: A wing mirror for use in a vehicle in which a mirror is housed includes a body case in which at least a front structural wall is formed of a light-transmitting material. A light emitting element is housed in the body case at a portion thereof opposing said light-transmitting material, so that radiation of the light emitting element can be visible from at least the front of the vehicle through the light-transmitting material.

Abstract: An exterior rear view mirror assembly is disclosed which incorporates a warning light actuatable in conjunction with the vehicle turn signals to alert adjacent motor vehicles of an anticipated turn. The warning light is integrated into a first decorative cover member and may be connected to the vehicle turn signal circuit by way of connectable electrical leads or by an integrally formed plug and outlet arrangement. A second decorative cover member may be substituted for the first decorative cover member when it is not desired to incorporate the warning light.

Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly incorporating one or more vehicle information displays includes an information display area in a portion of the rearview mirror housing which is at an angle to the plane of the reflective mirror element to provide improved visibility of the display by a front seat passenger. The information display can be provided in either the chin or eyebrow area of the rearview mirror housing, in the end of the mirror housing, or, alternately, in the field of view of the reflective mirror element itself or as a combination thereof.

Abstract: An illumination device for an exterior rearview mirror of a vehicle comprises a bulb holder which comprises a pair of stamped terminals and a housing which is preferably injection molded about the stamped terminals. One end of the stamped terminals provides for connection to a light bulb or other illumination source, while the other end of the stamped terminals provides for electrical connection to a vehicle or mirror wiring harness. Preferably, the body of the bulb holder is molded from a soft plastic material to facilitate easy insertion and removal of the bulb holder in the mirror assembly, and to further ease connection of the vehicle wiring harness to the wiring terminals. The soft plastic molding further provides a water-tight seal between the body and the stamped terminals and between the body and the illumination device of the rearview mirror assembly.

Abstract: An interior rearview mirror system for use in a vehicle includes an information display providing the status of a supplemental inflatable restraint system (SIRS) to the driver or a passenger in the vehicle. The SIRS status information display includes a light-emitting display element responsive to the SIRS to indicate enablement of the SIRS, and preferably to an automatic occupant sensor included in the SIRS. Preferably, the display includes indicia, such as air bag active or air bag inactive indicia, and at least one light source for backlighting the indicia. A photo sensor may be included to vary the brightness of the display in relation to the ambient light level adjacent the assembly, or to control the variable reflectance of a reflective, electro-optic mirror element in the assembly or to control a twilight headlight sentinel of the vehicle. A second information display may be included in the assembly to display other information related to the vehicle or vehicle accessories.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an exterior vehicle mirror assembly. The mirror comprises a housing with an electrically powered adjusting mechanism mounted therein, and a support structure to be fixed to the vehicle exterior. The housing is pivotally mounted to the support structure and both the housing and support structure provide structure cooperating to define an indexing pivot assembly. The support structure has a wire receiving passage formed therein and the housing has a wire passage access opening. The access opening provides access to the passage to facilitate passing electroconductive wire though the passage so as to allow the adjusting mechanism to be connected to an electric power source and a control signal source within the vehicle. A lighting assembly is constructed and arranged to be mounted to the support structure so as to close the wire access opening after an installer has passed the wiring through the wire receiving passage.

Abstract: A display arrangement to display data on a mirror surface of a motor vehicle surrounded by a housing includes at least one light-emitting element and a corresponding light guide having one end face to receive light from the light-emitting element and another end face located in the housing substantially parallel to the mirror surface. The mirror surface is provided with a light transmissive aperture in the region of the second end face of the light guide.

Abstract: A lighted vehicular mirror assembly includes a mirror case, a reflective element, a support for mounting the assembly on a vehicle, and at least one lamp assembly having a light source, a reflector member, and a lens. The reflector member is shaped to direct light emitted by the light source to form a pattern of light directed generally downwardly and rearwardly when the light source is electrically activated. A lens provides shaping and directing properties for light emitting from different areas of the reflector and includes a first prescription region, and a second region having a prescription different from said first prescription region.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in locating a vehicle driver, passenger or object in the vehicle for controlling vehicle systems including the positioning of vehicle sideview mirrors in relation to the driver's eyes to maximize the view of traffic on either side of the vehicle or the characteristics of vehicle airbag deployment. The location of a driver's or passenger's eyes or the location of an infant's seat is derived from the adjustment by the driver (or passenger, if capable of doing so) of adjustable light beam(s) emanating from light source(s) or illuminated indicia, until it (or they) intersect the driver's or passenger's eyes or illuminate a target, e.g. a child or an infant's seat, in the front passenger's seat. From the angles of adjustment of the light beam(s) and other known coordinates of the vehicle, the location of the driver's or passenger's eyes or the target may be computationally derived as a set of Cartesian coordinates.

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 rearwardly, forwardly, and laterally from the vehicle.

Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly incorporating one or more vehicle information displays includes an information display area in a portion of the rearview mirror housing which is at an angle to the plane of the reflective mirror element to provide improved visibility of the display by a front seat passenger. The information display can be provided in either the chin or eyebrow area of the rearview mirror housing, in the end of the mirror housing, or, alternately, in the field of view of the reflective mirror element itself or as a combination thereof.

Abstract: A lighting device for attachment to a motor vehicle inside a housing 4. One or more light emitting diodes 9 which emit substantially white light are employed as lighting emitters. On account of the small amount of waste heat of the light-emitting diodes 9 the lighting device can be particularly easily integrated into existing subassemblies of the motor vehicle, in particular into the outside mirrors, inside mirror, trim strips and door handles, and can serve to illuminate the region around the vehicle or the interior of the vehicle.

Abstract: A side view mirror with auxiliary lights for providing additional signaling to other drivers so they are aware of vehicle operations. The invention device includes a housing securable to a side of a vehicle. The housing has a mirror disposed within a rear face thereof. Within the housing, in appropriate locations, are various lights serving the specific functions of running light, side light, turn indicator, brake light, hazard indicator and turning light, with spot light, reverse light and light indicator system, that combine to provide exterior auxiliary lighting for the multiple functions of the vehicle from an optional location.

Abstract: A mirror assembly security system for a vehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly and a light module removably positioned within the exterior mirror housing. The light module is moisture impervious and includes an enclosure, a light-emitting opening in the enclosure, a light source in the enclosure radiating light through the light-emitting opening, and a cover for the light-emitting opening adapted to direct the light from the light source to an area adjacent the vehicle to create a security area. The light source may be supported by a pair of electrical contacts provided on the inner surface of the enclosure. The enclosure wall supporting the electrical contacts is preferably flexible, in order to allow the light source to be captured by the contacts. Attachment of the cover adds rigidity to the enclosure to prevent further flexure of the enclosure wall in order to firmly retain the light source.

Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly for vehicles includes a housing, and a mirror element supported on and adjustable by an actuator module. The assembly includes a support for supporting the actuator module within the housing and the actuator module has at least one electrical drive motor for adjusting the mirror element within the housing. The actuator module and support are both provided with electrical contacts whereby electrical connection is made when the actuator module is supported by the support.

Abstract: A multi-functional side rear view mirror for a vehicle for preventing blind spots for viewers. The multi-functional side rear view mirror includes a housing for mounting to the vehicle, a pair of mirrors disposed in the housing for viewing behind the vehicle, a pair of side marker lights disposed on the housing for continuously illuminating while the external light system of the vehicle is activated for preventing blind spots for the viewers, a turn signal light disposed on the housing for flashing while the turn signal system of the vehicle is activated for preventing blind spots for the viewers, and a brake light disposed on the housing for continuously illuminating while the brake light system of the vehicle is activated for preventing blind spots for the viewers.

Abstract: Interior vehicle intense local illumination of a target location of a vehicle interior is provided by an interior rearview mirror assembly incorporating a solid-state light source which emits light generally downwardly from the bottom of the assembly. Preferably, the solid-state light source consists of a grouping of multiple light emitting diodes. At least one light emitting diode preferably has a luminous intensity of at least 500 mcd when operated at a forward current of 20 mA, emits light with a dominant wavelength within the range of about 530 nm to about 680 nm, emits light having a color selected from green, orange, yellow, amber, reddish-orange, red and blue, is formed from a material including at least one of aluminum, indium, gallium arsenic and phosphorous, and may be connected by a series resistor to the vehicle ignition/battery.

Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror for a motor vehicle has a mirror head having a housing and a mirror pane mounted in the housing. The housing has a light window. At least one light source is mounted in the housing and positioned behind the light window. The light window consists at least partially of a light guide material in order to ensure complete and uniform illumination.

Abstract: An illuminator assembly, having a plurality of LEDs on a vehicular support member in a manner such that, when all of the LEDs are energized, illumination exhibiting a first perceived hue, e.g., blue-green, and projected from at least one of the LEDs overlaps and mixes with illumination exhibiting a second perceived hue, e.g., amber, which is distinct from said first perceived hue and which is projected from at least one of the remaining LEDs in such a manner that this overlapped and mixed illumination forms a metameric white color and has sufficient intensity and color rendering qualities to be an effective illuminator.