Light based apparatus and method for automatically adjusting rea

Details Light based apparatus and method for automatically adjusting rea Light based apparatus and method for automatically adjusting rea

1997-01-10

1999-09-07

Shafer, Ricky D.

Optical: systems and elements

Mirror

Automatically adjustable in response to vehicle position,...

359872, 359877, 359900, G02B 508, B60R 106

Patent

active

059495928

ABSTRACT:
Apparatus and methods for automating the outside rearview mirror orientation of a vehicle having at least one rearview mirror. The apparatus comprises a light directing device which emits a visible light ray, orientation detectors, an electronic controller, and a mirror positioning apparatus. The light directing device comprises a pivotal tube containing a light source. The orientation detectors detect the orientation of the light ray. In one embodiment, the apparatus also comprises a distance sensor which senses the distance between the light directing device and the driver's eyes. Once the driver has manually adjusted the light directing device so as to see the light source, the driver operates a switch, which activates both the distance sensor and the orientation detector. The controller includes a microcomputer programmed to determine the desired orientation of the outside mirror and generate control signals. The positioning apparatus, which may be a servomechanism, receives the control signals and positions the outside mirror in response thereto. The distance sensor may be an infrared or ultrasound sensor mounted on the light directing device.

REFERENCES:
patent: 4625329 (1986-11-01), Ishikawa et al.
patent: 5668675 (1997-09-01), Fredricks
patent: 5694259 (1997-12-01), Branden
patent: 5706144 (1998-01-01), Branden

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