Rear View Mirror Patents (Class 362/494)
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Publication number: 20090251913Abstract: The invention is related to a rear view mirror formed by a plastic glass structure and mirror housing. The plastic glass allows smooth edges and a bezel free appearance of the mirror. The plastic glass allows in addition to shine through the mirror body to create different types of illumination in the passenger's cabin.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Applicant: Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.Inventors: Ulrich Bruhnke, Oliver Eder, Kurt Wilfinger
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Publication number: 20090251785Abstract: The invention is related to an interior rear view mirror that is constructed by front plastic glass shaped in u-form and a mirror housing. The mirror comprises a second plastic glass which crate a inter glass space for a device which changes the reflectivity of the mirror.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Applicant: Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.Inventors: Ulrich Bruhnke, Oliver Eder, Kurt Wilfinger
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Publication number: 20090251914Abstract: A light module for an exterior rearview mirror assembly adapted for attachment to the side of a vehicle comprises an enclosure and a light-transmitting cover. At least one light-emitting diode is disposed within the enclosure cavity. When the exterior rearview mirror assembly is mounted at the side of the vehicle and when the light module is disposed in the exterior rearview mirror assembly and when the at least one light emitting diode is electrically powered, light radiated by the at least one light emitting diode radiates through the light-transmitting cover and may radiate away from the side of the vehicle to which the exterior mirror assembly is attached and/or may illuminate the ground in the vicinity of a door of the equipped vehicle. The light module is substantially moisture impervious and is removable from the exterior rearview mirror assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Applicant: DONNELLY CORPORATIONInventor: Todd W. Pastrick
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Patent number: 7599108Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly suitable for use in a vehicle includes a bezel and a mirror element located behind the bezel and viewable through an opening formed by the bezel. A backplate, formed by molding and having a first pivot element integrally formed on a side thereof, is securely fixed to a rear portion of the mirror element by direct attachment at least at a central region of the mirror element. A support bracket for attaching the interior rearview mirror assembly to a portion of the interior cabin of a vehicle includes a second pivot element that connects with the first pivot element of the backplate to form a pivot joint that enables angular adjustment by the driver of the rearward field of view provided by the mirror element. Circuitry is supported by the backplate and a housing, principally serving as a cosmetic shroud, connects with the bezel.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2007Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Patrick J. Lawlor, Niall R. Lynam, John P. Desmond, Patrick J. Dowling
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Publication number: 20090244740Abstract: Interference of light is prevented from occurring in a rear-view mirror incorporating a light-emitting display device where a dark color mask member is arranged behind a mirror element. A mirror element is formed by forming a semi-transmissive reflective film on one surface of a transparent substrate. On a back surface of the mirror element, a dark color mask member is arranged. An opening a is formed in the dark color mask member. Behind the mirror element, a light-emitting display device is arranged facing the opening. A protrusion forming a spacer is formed on the entire peripheral edge of a front surface of the dark color mask member. The spacer provides a clearance gap between the semi-transmissive reflective film and the dark color mask member.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2009Publication date: October 1, 2009Applicant: MURAKAMI CORPORATIONInventors: Shinya TAKAYANAGI, Masatoshi NAKAMURA
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Patent number: 7594742Abstract: The invention relates to an exterior mirror of a vehicle with an opening facing rearward in assembled state, in a housing, with a cavity, into which a mirror can be received, and a forward facing rear wall, confining the cavity, with an exterior surface. At least two different light functions can be performed on the outer surface and/or the mirror, wherein the light functions comprise illuminants, which are grouped in one or several modules within the housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2007Date of Patent: September 29, 2009Assignee: Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.Inventors: Robert Apfelbeck, Alf Liesener, Klaus-Dieter Hezinger, Arne Schmierer
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Publication number: 20090237820Abstract: A vehicular interior electrochromic rearview mirror assembly includes an electrochromic mirror reflective element assembly and a video display disposed behind a transflective mirror reflector of the mirror reflective element assembly. The transflective mirror reflector includes at least one electrically conducting metal layer and is disposed at a third surface of the rear substrate such that a perimeter border region of the third surface is substantially devoid of the electrically conducting metal layer. A third surface electrical conductor disposed at the third surface is in electrical connection with the transflective mirror reflector and may extend from the transflective mirror reflector and from the perimeter seal toward a perimeter edge of the rear substrate. The rear substrate may extend beyond a perimeter edge of the front substrate where the third surface electrical conductor is disposed, and the third surface electrical conductor may be electrically accessible outboard of the perimeter seal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2009Publication date: September 24, 2009Applicant: DONNELLY CORPORATIONInventors: Ian A. McCabe, Hamid Habibi, Niall R. Lynam, Donald L. Bareman
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Patent number: 7583184Abstract: A vehicular video mirror system comprises an interior electrochromic mirror having a transflective mirror reflector and a video screen disposed behind the mirror reflector so that the presence of the video screen is substantially unobservable to a driver of the vehicle until the video screen is actuated to emit light that passes through the electrochromic reflective element to be viewed by the driver of the vehicle. Control circuitry receives a signal indicative of selection of a reverse gear of the vehicle by the driver and actuates the video screen in order to display video images captured by a video imaging device disposed to the rear of the vehicle and having a field of view rearward of and external to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2007Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Kenneth Schofield, Frank O'Brien, Robert L. Bingle, Niall R. Lynam
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Patent number: 7581859Abstract: An exterior mirror sub-assembly includes a reflective element, a back plate, and a display element having a light source that is activatable to emit light. The display element attaches to a display receiving portion of the back plate and the light source is activatable to emit light through the display receiving portion. The display receiving portion may be configured to orient the display element at a predetermined angle so that light exiting the display element when the light source is activated may be directed (a) generally away from the vehicle when the mirror assembly is mounted to the vehicle so as to be principally viewed by drivers of other vehicles or (b) generally toward the driver of the vehicle when the mirror assembly is mounted to the vehicle so as to be principally viewed by the driver of the host vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2006Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: Donnelly Corp.Inventor: Niall R Lynam
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Publication number: 20090213604Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a reflective element, a frame portion around a perimeter of the reflective element, and one or more user inputs or buttons movably mounted to the frame portion. At least one bezel segment is positioned partially around the perimeter of the reflective element and frame portion and defines a space or gap along the frame portion between opposed and spaced apart ends of the bezel segment or segments. The input or button is mountable to the frame portion at the space and is movable by a user to engage and actuate an electronic switch within the mirror assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2009Publication date: August 27, 2009Applicant: DONNELLY CORPORATIONInventor: John T. Uken
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Patent number: 7579939Abstract: A vehicular video mirror system comprises an interior electrochromic mirror having a transflective mirror reflector and a video screen disposed behind the mirror reflector so that its presence is substantially unobservable to a driver of the vehicle until the video screen is actuated to emit light that passes through the electrochromic reflective element to be viewed by the driver of the vehicle. Common control circuit circuitry may control dimming of the electrochromic medium and actuation of the video screen. The control circuitry may receive a signal indicative of selection of a reverse gear of the vehicle by the driver and actuates the video screen in order to display video images captured by a video imaging device disposed to the rear of the vehicle and having a field of view rearward of and external to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2007Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Kenneth Schofield, Frank O'Brien, Robert L. Bingle, Niall R. Lynam
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Patent number: 7579940Abstract: An information display mirror system suitable for use in a vehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly configured for mounting at an interior portion of a vehicle and having a casing, a mirror support arm and a reflective element. The interior rearview mirror assembly includes an information display screen disposed separate from and independent of and lateral of the reflective element at a portion of the casing closer to a seating location of the vehicle driver or at a portion of the casing further from a seating location of the vehicle driver. The information display screen may be a touch-sensitive information display screen that displays information responsive to the driver of the vehicle at least one of touching its viewing surface and positioning a finger proximate its viewing surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2008Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Kenneth Schofield, Frank O'Brien, Robert L. Bingle, Niall R. Lynam
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Publication number: 20090201137Abstract: A rearview assembly for a vehicle includes a mirror element having a partially reflective, partially transmissive coating and a video display positioned behind the mirror element such that a display image is viewable through the partially reflective, partially transmissive coating. The video display may generate a viewable display image that has an intensity of at least 250 cd/m2. The video display may generate a display image that extends along and abuts at least a portion of curved edges of a housing. The assembly may include a forward facing light sensor for sensing a first light level forward of the vehicle, a rearward facing light sensor sensing a second light level to the rear of the vehicle, and a control circuit for comparing the first and second light levels and generating a warning signal when the second light level exceeds the first light level by at least threshold amount.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2009Publication date: August 13, 2009Applicant: DONNELLY CORPORATIONInventors: Andrew D. Weller, Mark L. Larson, Ian A. McCabe, Niall R. Lynam, Rodney K. Blank, Joseph P. McCaw, John T. Uken
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Publication number: 20090201690Abstract: An integrated light-emitting diode (LED) indicator display assembly having a carrier plate including a plurality of LED mounting steps. Electrical contact leads for LEDs carried on the mounting steps extend through openings in the mounting steps and out the bottom side of the carrier plate for engaging a metal fret to power the LED array. Preferably, a vibration dampening member is positioned between the LED and the LED mounting step, and a protective covering is applied over the metal fret along the bottom side of the carrier plate to enclose the metal fret and secures the metal fret in place.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2009Publication date: August 13, 2009Inventors: Joseph Ivan Rodolph Boivin, Phillip Reep
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Patent number: 7571042Abstract: A navigation system for a vehicle includes a control and a global positioning system. The control may receive a user input and may download directional information from an external service provider to the control in response to the user input and an initial geographic position of the vehicle. The directional information may comprise at least two instructions coded or associated with or linked to a respective geographic location. The control may provide an output corresponding to each of the instructions in response to a current actual geographic position of the vehicle. The control may provide each instruction only when the then current actual geographic position of the vehicle at least generally corresponds to the particular geographic location associated with the instruction. Driver instructions may be provided audibly and/or may be displayed on a display screen visible to the driver, preferably at an interior mirror assembly of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2007Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: David W. Taylor, Kevin C. McCarthy, Niall R. Lynam, Kenneth Schofield
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Publication number: 20090190366Abstract: A running light is activated in response to a number of command signals that correspond to the activation of one or more vehicle lights. For example, the running light may blink when an associated turn signal blinks, may dimly illuminate when a parking light is on, and may shine brightly when a brake light is on.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2008Publication date: July 30, 2009Inventor: David M. Weitzel
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Publication number: 20090161379Abstract: The invention is related to a rear view mirror assembly with a mirror base attached to a vehicle and a mirror head. The mirror head is formed to host a reflective element and an approach light, the approach light is positioned in the lower side of the mirror assembly to light up an area adjacent to the vehicle. The approach light includes a mask to allow the projection of the pattern adjacent to the vehicle. In more detail the invention is related to a way to project a pattern adjacent to a vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2008Publication date: June 25, 2009Applicant: Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.Inventor: Alf Liesener
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Publication number: 20090161378Abstract: A slim profile lighting assembly for an exterior rearview mirror comprising a light transmissive panel disposed on an exterior side of a mirror housing; a flat woven fiber optic web carried by said housing adjacent said light transmissive panel; and, a light source connected to said fiber optic web for channeling light through said fiber optic web so that light emitted from said fiber optic web passes through said light transmissive panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2008Publication date: June 25, 2009Inventor: Andreas Enz
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Publication number: 20090154181Abstract: A vehicle auxiliary lighting system is used for controlling traveling lighting according to traveling information. The vehicle auxiliary lighting system includes a plurality of light sources disposed on a rear view mirror, a traveling information acquisition device, and a controller. The light sources respectively emit light rays towards different directions, the traveling information acquisition device obtains traveling speed, steering angle, and other information, so as to turn on the light source with a specific angle to emit the light rays according to practical traveling state, thereby further assuring traveling safety.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2008Publication date: June 18, 2009Applicant: ALTEK CORPORATIONInventors: Hsiang-Yin CHEN, Chun-Ming CHEN
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Patent number: 7547127Abstract: A light module for an exterior rearview mirror assembly adapted for attachment to the side of a vehicle comprises an enclosure and a light-transmitting cover. A first light source in the enclosure radiates light through the light-transmitting cover when the light source is electrically powered. A first structure is preferably provided that is configured to mate with a second structure of the exterior mirror assembly in order to at least partially retain the light module substantially within the exterior mirror assembly. The enclosure can be received through an opening in the exterior mirror assembly and the light module may be releasably retained by the first and second structures.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2008Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Todd W. Pastrick
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Patent number: 7540642Abstract: A vehicle lamp includes a lens portion; and a base housing incorporated with a light source portion, the base housing integrated with the lens portion in a butting condition. The light source portion includes first and second light sources, a substrate, a first light source terminal plate and a second light source terminal plate implanted in the substrate so as to create a gap from each other, and an electric or electronic component that turns on the first and second light sources. A front-end part of at least one of the light source terminal plates is bent toward the other light source terminal plate so as to differentiate the first and second light sources in an irradiating direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2007Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Mitsuba CorporationInventors: Yoshihiro Takahashi, Yosuke Fukasawa
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Patent number: 7532149Abstract: One embodiment of a rearview mirror encompassing a plurality of radar detectors and laser detectors comprises of an opaque housing, a rearview mirror assembly, a universal mount, and a PCB assembly providing all of the illumination, audible indication, logic, user inputs, and radar and laser detection. Visual indications of radar or laser signals via illuminated indicators visible through the mirror, provide a fully functioning rearview mirror, when in standby mode. The device accommodates a plurality of mounts in order to accommodate all vehicle types. The geometry and mounting locations provide for more sensitive and accurate detection of radar and laser signals, while neither distracting the drive, detracting from the aesthetic nature of the vehicle, or causing a safety hazard.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2007Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Assignee: Banko IndustriesInventors: Sarah V. Banko, Joshua D. Banko
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Publication number: 20090115631Abstract: A mirror reflective element sub-assembly suitable for use for an exterior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle includes a mirror reflective element, a mirror back plate having an indicator receiving portion established thereat, and a signal indication module having a light source. The signal indication module attaches to the indicator receiving portion of the mirror back plate and the light source is activatable to emit light through the indicator receiving portion. The light source is established at a circuit element and the signal indication module includes a housing that substantially encases the circuit element therein. The circuit element has electrical terminals extending therefrom and protruding at least partially at a connector portion of the housing so as to be electrically connectable to a power source of the vehicle. The connector portion of the housing is configured to provide a plug-socket connection between the power source and the signal indication module.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2008Publication date: May 7, 2009Applicant: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Niall R. Lynam
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Patent number: 7527403Abstract: An interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a reflective element, a frame portion around a perimeter of the reflective element, and one or more user inputs or buttons movably mounted to the frame portion. At least one bezel segment is positioned partially around the perimeter of the reflective element and frame portion and defines a space or gap along the frame portion between opposed and spaced apart ends of the bezel segment or segments. The input or button is mountable to the frame portion at the space and is movable by a user to engage and actuate an electronic switch within the mirror assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2006Date of Patent: May 5, 2009Assignee: Donnelly Corp.Inventor: John T. Uken
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Patent number: 7524092Abstract: The invention relates to a rear-view mirror for vehicles, which consists of compatible, combinable and exchangeable modules such as: (A) and (B), or integrated (A+B), functional, signal, lighting and sensor modules, and structural (C), (D) and (E) modules; cover-housing, body-housing and support which may include functional modules. (A), (B) and (A+B) fulfill their function even if the rear-view mirror is folded. They use a multifocal light source of LED's inserted into a flexible and orientable circuit and/or a mixed rigid-flexible circuit-combining LED's+bulbs and other lighting elements, with variable optical and reflective means enabling more than one signal from one same transparent surface with direct light output, indirect-reflected light output and/or through intermediate optical light guides depending on the directions required in the front, the side, the back and the lateral ground for different commands, applications and safety signals.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2007Date of Patent: April 28, 2009Inventors: Alejandro Rodriguez Barros, Jose Manuel Rodriguez Fernandez
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Patent number: 7517099Abstract: A blind spot safety system includes a side view mirror assembly. The side view mirror assembly includes a mirror housing attached to an automobile, a power supply, an adjustment motor, a mirror adjustment mechanism, and an adjustable mirror. A blind spot mirror track is incorporated into the mirror housing. The track's distal end is co-located with the blind spot mirror port. The blind spot mirror is slidingly attached inside the track. The blind spot motor and linkage assembly are attached to the mirror housing, the blind spot mirror and power supply. A signaling circuit is attached to the power supply and the blind spot motor, and it relays signals from the automobile computer, directing the blind spot mirror to extend or retract. A defroster prevents freezing and a proximity detector monitors blind spots and directs the operation of hazard indicators attached to the side view mirror assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2004Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventor: Arthur Andre Hannah
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Patent number: 7513664Abstract: An outside mirror apparatus for a vehicle includes a mirror housing including an opening, a housing recess, and a cutout communicating with the housing recess; a mirror unit; and a lighting device including a lamp housing and a lamp lens, a light irradiating unit, and a light source. The housing recess and the cutout are provided in the mirror housing; the light irradiating unit is provided in the lighting device; the lighting device is housed in the housing recess; and the light irradiating unit is arranged in the cutout. An outer surface of the light irradiating unit is provided along an outer surface of the mirror housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2005Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Ichikoh Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Shuuichi Chou
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Patent number: 7510311Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror for vehicles, in particular motor vehicles. The exterior rearview mirror has a mirror housing with a mirror glass, which is mounted on a mirror glass support and is encompassed by a frame. The exterior rearview mirror is provided with signal lamps, area lights, and indicator lights that are situated in the mirror housing or in the mirror base. In order to permit a simple, inexpensive installation of a lamp into the exterior rearview mirror so that it does not take up much space, at least one lamp of a built-in light is accommodated in the frame. The lamp, which is fastened to the frame in a non-detachable way, can be accommodated in the frame in a simple, space-saving way and held there securely. The exterior rearview mirror is particularly suited for motor vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2005Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Inventors: Vasile Romas, Ovidiu Catalin Susca
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Publication number: 20090073709Abstract: A lighting fixture for a vehicle includes: at least one light source; and a housing including a housing main body and an outer lens. The housing includes a partition wall which partitions a housing space, formed by the outer lens and the housing main body into a housing space exposed portion and a housing space shielded portion which houses and shields the at least one light source.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2007Publication date: March 19, 2009Inventors: Yasuo YAJIMA, Satoru OKADA
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Patent number: 7500771Abstract: Light for vehicles, preferably for motor vehicles. The light has a housing having at least a housing front part and a housing rear wall, said housing being provided with at least one lighting source whose rays pass to the outside. In order to design the light such that it can be manufactured easily and economically in any desired conformation, the lighting source is attached to a lighting source carrier whose conformation corresponds at least in part to the inside contour of the light housing. The light is advantageously used for motor vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2005Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignees: odelo GmbH, Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.Inventor: Arne Schmierer
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Publication number: 20090046475Abstract: The invention is related to an exterior rear-view mirror for vehicles, having a mirror head with a housing in which an adjustable mirror pane is positioned and in which at least one light source is arranged which is located in an area behind a light window of the housing. Light window is part of a turn light signal device which comprises a colour screen to influence colour appearance to turn light signal not activated.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2008Publication date: February 19, 2009Applicant: Visiocorp Patents S.a.r.l.Inventors: Klaus Weller, Heiko Hoeber
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Publication number: 20090040778Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide an image pickup device-equipped rear view mirror with improved image pickup performance, glare prevention and appearance (design) in addition to improved performance as a vehicle mirror. A mirror element is formed by forming a reflecting film consisting of high refractive index material films and a low refractive index material film on a back surface of a transparent glass substrate. The integrating sphere reflectance of the mirror element in the visible range is 40% to 60% and the near-infrared transmittance is no less than 70% for the whole or part of the band belonging to the near-infrared range within the entire sensitive wavelength range of the near-infrared camera. A black mask member is attached to an entire back surface of the reflecting film. The near-infrared camera is arranged behind the black mask member.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2008Publication date: February 12, 2009Applicant: MURAKAMI CORPORATIONInventors: Shinya TAKAYANAGI, Masatoshi NAKAMURA
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Publication number: 20090040306Abstract: A mirror reflective element assembly for an exterior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle includes a reflective element, a back plate disposed at a rear surface of the reflective element, a wide angle reflector element received in a receiving portion of the back plate. The reflective element has a first reflective coating disposed thereat and the wide angle reflector element has a curved rear surface with a second reflective coating disposed at the curved rear surface. An optical element or optical adhesive may be disposed between a front surface of the wide angle reflector element and the rear surface of the reflective element.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2008Publication date: February 12, 2009Applicant: DONNELLY CORPORATIONInventors: Keith D. Foote, Kevin P. Benthem, Niall R. Lynam
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Publication number: 20090015736Abstract: A video mirror system for a vehicle comprising an interior rearview mirror assembly having a transflective electro-optic reflective element that transmits at least about ten percent of visible light incident thereon and reflects at least about sixty percent of visible light incident thereon. A display module is disposed at a rear of the transflective electro-optic reflective element and comprises a plurality of individual light sources. A thermally conductive element may be in substantial thermal contact with the display module and is exposed at a rear casing portion of the mirror assembly so as to draw heat generated by the display module away from the display module and to the exterior of the interior rearview mirror assembly. The exposure of the thermally conductive element at the rear casing portion may be substantially not discernible to a viewer viewing the rear casing portion of the interior rearview mirror assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2006Publication date: January 15, 2009Applicant: DONNELLY CORPORATIONInventors: Andrew D. Weller, Mark L. Larson, Ian A. McCabe, Niall R. Lynam, Rodney K. Blank, Joseph P. McCaw, John T. Uken
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Patent number: 7470049Abstract: An apparatus including at least one LED mounted to a printed circuit board, a reflector including at least one heat stake, and a mounting plate comprising at least one aperture for receiving the at least one heat stake. The at least one LED is positioned between the reflector and the mounting plate such that the at least one LED is held in position when the at least one heat stake is received within the at least one aperture.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2007Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Jeremy A. Walser, Kenton J. Ypma, Daniel J. Bostwick, John K. Roberts, Robert Steel, Steven J. Miskelley, Darin D. Tuttle
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Patent number: 7468651Abstract: An interior mirror system suitable for use in a vehicle comprises an interior rearview mirror assembly having a mirror support assembly adapted for attachment to an interior portion of the vehicle. The interior rearview mirror assembly further comprises an imaging sensor. An electrochromic reflective mirror element is disposed in a housing with its the rearward field of view pivotally adjustable about the mirror support assembly via a pivot element when the interior rearview mirror assembly is attached by the mirror support assembly at an interior portion of the vehicle. Electronic circuitry that includes a compass sensor is disposed within the housing to the rear of the reflective mirror element and the electronic circuitry includes a microprocessor that at least partially controls automatic dimming of the reflectivity of the reflective mirror element in response to glare conditions detected by at least one photo sensor.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2006Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Jonathan E DeLine, Niall R Lynam
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Patent number: 7467883Abstract: A vehicular interior rearview mirror system includes an interior rearview mirror assembly having one of (a) a variable reflectance reflective element and (b) a prismatic reflective element. The interior rearview mirror assembly includes a CMOS video microchip having, when the interior rearview mirror assembly is normally mounted in the vehicle, a field of view though the windshield forward of the vehicle and the interior rearview mirror assembly comprises electronic circuitry responsive to an input from the video microchip, the circuitry preferably controlling at least one headlamp of the vehicle. The mirror assembly may contain other accessories such as a compass sensor disposed in the mirror housing in the mirror housing behind and supported by the reflective element such that adjustment about at least one pivot joint by the driver to set the rearward field view of the reflective element moves the compass sensor in tandem with movement of the reflective element.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2007Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Jonathan E. DeLine, Roger L. Veldman, Niall R. Lynam
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Publication number: 20080309510Abstract: The invention relates to a multisignal device for the rear-view mirror of a vehicle, which can be connected to other parts of the vehicle and which comprises a light beam emitter, said beams lighting up in a progressive and controlled manner according to the user's requirements or the automatic response to events. In addition, the signal can exit at the front and/or the side owing to the arrangement of the elements of the system. The light sources essentially comprise cores with printed circuits on the faces thereof, in which LEDs are inserted.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2005Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventor: Matias Mandagaran
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Patent number: 7452113Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in controlling the direction of light rays and apparatus incorporating the improvements.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Mark W. Newton, John K. Roberts, Timothy A. Bonardi, Jeremy A. Fogg, Timothy J. Thomas, Darin D. Tuttle, Jeremy A. Walser
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Patent number: 7448781Abstract: An external mirror includes an indicator light and a case with a protruding portion whose outer face is arranged more outside than an outer face of the indicator light. Even when the external mirror hits or bumps against an obstacle, the protruding portion is the first and likely only portion which hits or bumps against the obstacle thereby preventing the indicator light from being damaged. Therefore, the indicator light will have to be replaced less frequently, thereby reducing a burden on the user. Typically, the protruding portion is provided below the indicator light. Accordingly, the indicator light can be strongly protected with respect to the contact from a lower side of the external mirror, where there are generally a relatively large number/percentage of obstacles. Preferably, the indicator light has a convex surface lens which protrudes toward outside of the external mirror. Preferably, the protruding portion has a ridge line between an upper face and a lower face of the protruding portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2005Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Mamoru Kagawa
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Patent number: 7446427Abstract: A visual, rear viewing and rain sensing system for a vehicle comprising a windshield and a button connected to the windshield, with the button having a peripheral body defining an open area in a middle section of the button. The visual, rear viewing and rain sensing system further includes a rain sensor located in the middle section and an interior rearview mirror system connected to the button. The rain sensor is operatively coupled to the windshield independent of the interior rearview mirror system. At least a portion of the rain sensor is no longer operatively coupled to the windshield as the interior rearview mirror system is detached from the button.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2004Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Brian R. Parker, Brian J. Rees, Wayne J. Rumsey, Timothy S. DeVries, John W. Carter
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Patent number: 7446650Abstract: An accessory system suitable for use in a vehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly having a mirror-mounting portion that is adapted to detachably mount the interior rearview mirror assembly at an interior portion of the vehicle. A windshield accessory module assembly is also preferably included attached at the windshield of the vehicle. The windshield accessory module assembly is unaffected by adjustment of the rearward field of view of the reflective element of the interior rearview mirror assembly and preferably comprises at least one of a forward facing imaging device with a field of view forward of the vehicle through the windshield of the vehicle and an interior cabin imaging device with a field of view encompassing at least a portion of the interior cabin of the vehicle. The accessory system preferably includes a video display screen displaying an image captured by an image capture device with a field of view rearward of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2004Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Kenneth Scholfield, Frank O'Brien, Robert L Bingle, Niall R Lynam
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Publication number: 20080259624Abstract: A lighting device for vehicle include a housing body, an outer lens provided on the housing body, a decorating wall provided between the housing body and the outer lens and a plurality of light emitting devices which are provided between the housing body and the decorating wall and disposed with intervals to each other. The decorating wall includes a plurality of light transmitting portions, each of which is disposed to face each of the plurality of light emitting devices. The light transmitting portion is disposed to set light emitted from the corresponding light emitting device within a range of a predetermined light distribution angle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2007Publication date: October 23, 2008Inventors: Yasuo YAJIMA, Satoru Okada
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Patent number: 7438453Abstract: An exterior mirror assembly includes a mirror member, a housing and a light member. The mirror member is supported in the housing. The light member is attached to the housing to radiate light, having a luminous body and a lens mask configured to cover the luminous body. The housing has an outermost portion which lies outwardly furthest with respect to a width direction of a vehicle. The light member is disposed inside of the outermost portion with respect to a width direction of the vehicle and the lens mask is formed so that its shape smoothly continues to the outermost portion. A projection is formed on the lens mask so that a surface of the projection is inside of the outermost portion with respect to a width direction of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Saitoh, Tomohiko Sano, Takayuki Domon
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Patent number: 7427150Abstract: An exterior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention, includes a lamp module with light sources functioning as a turn signal indicator, a security light, and a blind spot indicator. The light module may include at least one LED device that is activated during different activation modes so as to operate in two or more of the following modes: a blind spot indication mode, a turn signal mode, and a security light mode. The LED device may emit light of different color during the different modes of operation. The security light may be oriented to illuminate the door handle and keyhole. The light module may be positioned behind the mirror element to project light through the mirror element.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2003Date of Patent: September 23, 2008Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: John W. Carter, Darin D. Tuttle, Bradley L. Busscher, Frederick T. Bauer, Garth D. Deur
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Publication number: 20080225538Abstract: A lighting system for a vehicle comprises a sealed unitary light module including at least one high-intensity power light emitting diode operates with a luminous efficiency of at least about 7 lumens per watt when passing a forward current of at least about 350 milliamps and that emits a luminous flux of at least about 25 lumens when operated at its operating voltage. The sealed unitary light module is removable as a unit from the vehicle and includes a heat dissipating element and a lens.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2008Publication date: September 18, 2008Applicant: DONNELLY CORPORATIONInventors: Niall R. Lynam, John O. Lindahl
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Patent number: 7425087Abstract: The present invention is to provide a better design, and a uniform and bright lighting to a cover lens. A lamp holder holds a lamp L and a lamp bezel holds the lamp holder. The lamp bezel is attached to a roof of a vehicle. The cover lens covers a front side of the lamp bezel and the lamp holder. A part of the cover lens is embossed so as that the lamp holder is hardly visible through the cover lens from a front side of the cover lens. The part is thinly embossed as approaching to a periphery of the part in order to increase a light transmittance.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: September 16, 2008Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Masahiro Sawayanagi, Katsutoshi Kamiya, Kazutaka Toyoda
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Publication number: 20080219019Abstract: An exterior mirror assembly for a vehicle includes a signal light or security light that provides illumination at a side of the vehicle. The exterior mirror assembly includes a housing with a reflective element, and may include a positioning device for adjusting the position of the reflective element in the housing. The signal light includes a light source and may be adapted to project light from a non-folding portion or support member of the mirror housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2008Publication date: September 11, 2008Applicant: DONNELLY CORPORATIONInventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Michiel P. van de Ven, Peter J. Whitehead, Rick Mousseau, Niall R. Lynam
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Patent number: 7423522Abstract: A tire pressure alert system suitable for use in a vehicle includes a vehicular tire pressure monitoring system and a telematic system of the vehicle. The telematic system of the vehicle is operable to wirelessly communicate between the vehicle and an external service provider external to the vehicle. The tire pressure monitoring system is operable to detect or determine or estimate a tire pressure in a tire mounted on a wheel of the vehicle and to communicate an output signal indicative of the tire pressure to the external service provider. The external service provider receives the output signal from the tire pressure monitoring system and processes the output signal and communicates an alert to the subject vehicle to alert the driver or occupant of the vehicle of a tire pressure condition in one or more of the vehicle's tires.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2005Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Frank O'Brien, Niall R. Lynam, Kenneth Schofield
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Patent number: 7419199Abstract: A signal mirror assembly including a convex mirror and a signal indicator. The convex mirror defines a recess or cutout region. The signal indicator fits within the cutout region. The assembly can include a housing, and the convex mirror can include a perimeter extending substantially to the housing, except where the cutout region exists. A gasket can circumferentiate the housing, the mirror and a portion of the signal indicator to prevent water and debris from entering the assembly. The signal indicator also can include a surface parallel to the convex mirror surface. The cut out region and the corresponding signal indicator can be positioned in the housing such that the signal indicator is located at a position distal from the vehicle to enhance its visibility to the vehicle operator.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Hadley ProductsInventor: Christopher M. Dutton