Electronic rearview mirror assembly and vehicle

Abstract

The present specification discloses an electronic rearview mirror device and a vehicle, comprising: a housing having a containing chamber, the containing chamber having an open end; a camera mechanism arranged in the containing chamber; a mirror cover movably arranged at the open end; at least one power mechanism arranged in the containing chamber, wherein one of the power mechanisms is used to drive the camera mechanism to extend and retract from the open end. The electronic rearview mirror device provided by the present application can be arranged on a vehicle body alone and can be adapted to different vehicle models.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to electronic rearview mirror devices and vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of camera technology, electronic rearview mirrors have emerged on the market to replace traditional optical rearview mirrors. Since electronic rearview mirrors are mostly exposed to the exterior of the vehicle, their lenses are often contaminated by environmental factors such as weather. To reduce environmental contamination of electronic rearview mirrors, they should be kept out of the vehicle's exterior when not in use.

[0003] Existing technologies, such as patents with publication numbers JP2019131097A, WO2013172688A1, CN208360071U, EP2252481B1, and JP4213760B1, propose devices for storing electronic rearview mirrors. Specifically, these devices involve creating a receiving cavity in the vehicle body, housing the electronic rearview mirror and its connected motion mechanism within this cavity. When not in use, the electronic rearview mirror is stored inside the vehicle body via the motion mechanism; when needed, it extends outside the vehicle to collect image information. However, if the electronic rearview mirror or its connected motion mechanism is damaged, the entire vehicle body needs to be repaired and replaced, resulting in a poor user experience.

[0004] Furthermore, in existing technology, this device is also equipped with a lens cover to protect the lens when it is stored in the vehicle body. However, when the lens extends outward toward the vehicle body, the lens cover is flipped open by a moving mechanism, and the lens cover extends outward along with the lens. This results in two issues: firstly, a larger overall volume of the structure extending outward, generating greater wind resistance and wind noise; and secondly, a larger gap is formed between the lens and the receiving cavity, resulting in poor sealing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to solve at least one technical problem existing in the prior art, this application provides an electronic rearview mirror device and a vehicle, wherein the electronic rearview mirror can be installed separately on the vehicle body and can be adapted to different vehicle models.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution provided in this application is as follows:

[0007] An electronic rearview mirror device, comprising:

[0008] A housing having a receiving chamber having an open end;

[0009] The camera mechanism is installed in the receiving chamber;

[0010] A mirror cover that is movably disposed at the opening end;

[0011] At least one power mechanism is disposed in the receiving chamber, one of which is used to drive the camera mechanism to extend and retract from the opening end.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the power mechanisms is used to drive the lens cover to a closed position and / or an open position, wherein when the lens cover moves from the closed position to the open position, the lens cover is fully received in the receiving chamber.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the power mechanism includes: a power source assembly; a first motion component and a second motion component that are drively connected to the power source assembly, wherein the first motion component is used to drive the camera mechanism to move between a retracted position and an extended position, and the second motion component is used to drive the lens cover to move.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the first motion component includes a first linkage mechanism that is drively connected to the power source component, and the end of the first linkage mechanism is connected to the camera mechanism.

[0015] In one preferred embodiment, the device includes: a first elastic element that provides an elastic restoring force to the mirror cover;

[0016] When the camera mechanism moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the elastic restoring force provided by the first elastic element can drive the lens cover to move from the closed position to the open position. When the camera mechanism moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the second motion component can drive the lens cover to move from the open position to the closed position.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the device includes: a slide rail disposed on the moving path of the camera mechanism, the slide rail having a connecting end and a free end, wherein when the camera mechanism moves from the retracted position toward the extended position, the free end rotates about the connecting end to disengage from the lens cover, and when the camera mechanism moves from the extended position toward the retracted position, the free end rotates about the connecting end to abut against the lens cover.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the second motion component includes: a second linkage mechanism that is drivenly connected to the power source component, and a positioning plate disposed at the end of the second linkage mechanism, the positioning plate having a positioning position and an operating position;

[0019] When the camera mechanism moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the positioning plate can move from the operating position to the positioning position to limit the lens cover to the open position when it reaches the positioning position. When the camera mechanism moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the positioning plate can move from the positioning position to the operating position to push the lens cover to the closed position when it reaches the operating position.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the second motion component includes a second elastic member disposed between the housing and the positioning plate. When the mirror cover moves from the closed position to the open position, the elastic member applies an elastic restoring force to the positioning plate, enabling it to move toward the positioning position.

[0021] In one preferred embodiment, the device includes: a first elastic element that provides an elastic restoring force to the mirror cover;

[0022] When the camera mechanism moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the second motion component can drive the lens cover to move from the closed position to the open position. When the camera mechanism moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the elastic restoring force provided by the first elastic element can drive the lens cover to move from the open position to the closed position.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the power mechanism is provided in two parts, one of which is used to drive the lens cover to move between a closed position and an open position, and the other is used to drive the camera mechanism to extend and retract from the opening end.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the device includes: a cover plate assembly detachably mounted on the housing, the cover plate assembly having the opening formed thereon, and the mirror cover being rotatably connected to the cover plate assembly.

[0025] A vehicle has an opening in its body, and an electronic rearview mirror device is installed in the opening; the electronic rearview mirror device includes:

[0026] A housing having a receiving chamber having an open end;

[0027] The camera mechanism is installed in the receiving chamber;

[0028] A mirror cover that is movably disposed at the opening end;

[0029] At least one power mechanism is disposed in the receiving chamber, one of which is used to drive the camera mechanism to extend and retract from the opening end.

[0030] Beneficial effects:

[0031] The electronic rearview mirror device provided in this application is an integral module, with a camera mechanism, mirror cover, and power mechanism housed in its accommodating chamber. This module can be installed on the vehicle body as an independent component. When replacement or repair is required, it can be removed from the vehicle body without replacing or repairing the entire vehicle. Furthermore, this electronic rearview mirror device has good versatility; the mirror cover can be adapted to the shape of the vehicle body, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with the overall vehicle design when installed, thus meeting the needs of different vehicle models.

[0032] Specific embodiments of this application are disclosed in detail with reference to the following description and accompanying drawings, indicating how the principles of this application can be adopted. It should be understood that the scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto.

[0033] Features described and / or illustrated for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments.

[0034] It should be emphasized that the term "including / comprises" as used herein refers to the presence of a feature, whole, step, or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, or components. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the electronic rearview mirror device provided in the embodiments of this specification;

[0037] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the electronic rearview mirror device provided in the embodiments of this specification;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the mirror cover when it is open, according to one embodiment of this specification.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the camera mechanism when it is extended, as provided in the embodiments of this specification;

[0040] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the camera mechanism when it is retracted, as provided in the embodiments of this specification.

[0041] Figure 6 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the state of the positioning plate when it is in the operating position;

[0042] Figure 7 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the state of the positioning plate when it is in the positioning position;

[0043] Figure 8 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the state when the slide rail is in contact with the mirror cover;

[0044] Figure 9 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the state when the slide rail is detached from the mirror cover;

[0045] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the disassembled structure of the cover plate assembly provided in the embodiments of this specification;

[0046] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the exterior of a vehicle body using the electronic rearview mirror device provided in the embodiments of this specification;

[0047] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A view cut along direction II;

[0048] Figure 13 for Figure 11 A magnified view of a section at point G.

[0049] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0050] S, vehicle body;

[0051] 1. Shell; 11. Receiving chamber; 13. Through hole;

[0052] 2. Camera mechanism; 21. Roller; 22. Base; 23. Main body;

[0053] 3. Mirror cover; 31. First connecting shaft; 32. First elastic element;

[0054] 4. First motion component; 41. First linkage mechanism; 42. Damping component;

[0055] 5. Second motion component; 51. Second linkage mechanism; 52. Positioning plate; 53. Second elastic element; 54. Rack;

[0056] 7. Slide rail; 71. Connecting end; 72. Free end; 75. Second connecting shaft; 76. Third elastic element;

[0057] 8. Slider;

[0058] 9. Motor; 91. Drive wheel; 92. Lead screw;

[0059] 10. Cover plate assembly; 101. Outer cover plate; 102. Inner cover plate; 103. Cover plate sealing ring; 104. Mirror cover sealing ring. Detailed Implementation

[0060] The technical solution of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are only used to illustrate the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope. After reading the present invention, any modifications of the present invention in various equivalent forms by those skilled in the art fall within the scope defined by this application.

[0061] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0062] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein in the description of the invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Furthermore, in the description of the invention, unless otherwise stated, "at least one" means one or more.

[0063] The following will combine Figures 1 to 13 The electronic rearview mirror device according to embodiments of this specification will be explained and described. It should be noted that, for ease of explanation, the same reference numerals denote the same components in the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, for brevity, detailed descriptions of the same components are omitted in different embodiments, and the descriptions of the same components can be cross-referenced and used.

[0064] The electronic rearview mirror device provided in this specification can be configured on any vehicle, including sedans, commercial vehicles, SUVs, and small cars. This application does not impose any particular limitation on this type of vehicle. In foreseeable embodiments, the technical solution provided in this application can also be extended to any suitable scenario, and the scope of protection of this application is not limited to applications on vehicles.

[0065] The electronic rearview mirror device mainly includes a camera mechanism 2, a mirror cover 3, and at least one power mechanism, one of which is used to drive the camera mechanism 2 to extend and retract.

[0066] This electronic rearview mirror device, as an auxiliary device applied to vehicles, can be used for environmental perception, including but not limited to radar (e.g., millimeter-wave radar), cameras, rearview mirrors, and other environmental perception devices. Alternatively, it can be a cleaning device. Of course, in foreseeable embodiments, it can also be other auxiliary devices besides environmental perception and cleaning functions. Correspondingly, the camera mechanism 2 can correspond to any of the above-mentioned auxiliary functions. This specification mainly uses the camera mechanism as the primary application scenario, but based on the above description, the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto.

[0067] The camera mechanism 2 is equipped with a camera unit for collecting visual information. When needed, the electronic rearview mirror device can extend the camera mechanism 2 using a power mechanism to collect external visual information; when not in use, the camera mechanism 2 can be retracted using a power mechanism, thereby reducing lens contamination. The lens cap 3 is used to protect the camera mechanism 2 when it is retracted.

[0068] The camera mechanism 2, lens cover 3, and at least one power mechanism can be directly housed in the receiving cavity of the base, for example, by pre-drilling mounting holes in the vehicle body to install the camera mechanism 2, lens cover 3, and at least one power mechanism into the mounting holes. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the electronic rearview mirror device may include a housing 1, a camera mechanism 2, a mirror cover 3 and a power mechanism, all of which can be housed in the housing 1 to form an integral module, and the integral module is placed in the accommodating cavity of the base.

[0069] The housing 1 can be any existing regular or irregular structure, such as rectangular, spherical, or cylindrical. The housing 1 has a receiving chamber 11 with an open end for the camera mechanism 2 to extend out during use. To facilitate the connection between the power mechanism inside the housing 1 and an external power source or control circuit, the housing 1 is also provided with a through hole 13 to facilitate the power supply and control of the power mechanism.

[0070] Camera mechanism 2 includes a housing for mounting the camera unit. For example... Figure 3 and Figure 11 As shown, the housing has a base 22 and a body 23. The outer contour dimension of the base 22 is larger than that of the body 23, and a limiting step is formed between them. When the camera mechanism 2 is extended, the body 23 and the base 22 can be located on opposite sides of the opening end, with the body 23 extending beyond the opening end. Thus, when the body 23 extends from the opening end, the limiting step between the base 22 and the body 23 can cooperate with the opening end to form a seal. To reduce wind resistance when the camera mechanism 2 is extended, the body 23 can have a streamlined, tapered structure.

[0071] The lens cover 3 is movably disposed at the opening end. When the camera mechanism 2 needs to be extended, the lens cover 3 is opened to allow the camera mechanism 2 to extend from the opening end. When the camera mechanism 2 needs to be retracted, the lens cover 3 is closed to seal the receiving chamber 11.

[0072] This device, formed as a single module, can be installed as an independent component on a vehicle body or other type of base. When replacement or repair is required, it can be removed separately from the vehicle body. For example... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, when the device is installed on the vehicle body S, mounting holes corresponding to the size and shape of the housing 1 can be pre-designed on the vehicle body S. Then, the entire module is installed into the mounting holes, with the open end facing the outside of the vehicle body, so that the camera mechanism 2 can extend out to collect visual information from the side and rear of the vehicle body.

[0073] Meanwhile, this device boasts excellent versatility and can be adapted to any vehicle body. As is well known, different car models have different body designs. When mounted on different vehicle bodies, the mirror cover's shape can be adapted to the body's form, ensuring a seamless integration with the overall vehicle design and meeting the installation needs of various models. Therefore, when the camera mechanism retracts into the receiving chamber, the mirror cover, being integrated with the vehicle body, can be considered an integral part of the body, resulting in excellent concealment.

[0074] In this specification, the electronic rearview mirror device may include: a cover plate assembly 10 detachably mounted on the housing 1, the cover plate assembly 10 having an open end, and a mirror cover 3 rotatably connected to the cover plate assembly 10. Therefore, when it is necessary to replace or repair components inside the housing 1, the cover plate assembly 10 can be disassembled and removed. The cover plate assembly 10 may be a multi-layered or single-layered structure, capable of maintaining a seal at the open end when the camera mechanism 2 extends from it.

[0075] In one implementation, such as Figure 10 and Figure 13 As shown, the cover plate assembly 10 includes an outer cover plate 101, an inner cover plate 102, and a sealing mechanism disposed between the outer cover plate 101 and the inner cover plate 102. The outer cover plate 101 is the outermost component, the inner cover plate 102 is connected to the edge of the housing 1, and the sealing mechanism is installed within the sealing cavity between the outer cover plate 101 and the inner cover plate 102. When the body portion 23 of the camera mechanism 2 extends from the open end, the base portion 22 of the camera mechanism 2 can cooperate with the sealing mechanism to maintain a seal at that location.

[0076] During installation, the outer cover plate 101 and the inner cover plate 102 can be snapped together to confine the sealing mechanism within the sealing cavity. Alternatively, a bolted or threaded connection can be used. The sealing mechanism consists of at least one sealing ring, which may include a cover plate sealing ring 103 near the outer cover plate 101 and a mirror cover sealing ring 104 near the mirror cover 3.

[0077] In this embodiment, the cover assembly 10 can also be adapted to the shape of the vehicle body S, and it connects with the overall shape of the vehicle body S together with the mirror cover 3. Furthermore, the cover assembly 10 and the housing 1 are detachable, allowing the cover assembly 10 and the mirror cover 3 to be configured as a single unit. When configured for different vehicle models, only the cover assembly 10 needs to be disassembled as a whole, without replacing other components in the electronic rearview mirror device besides the cover assembly 10. For example, when the electronic rearview mirror device is changed from vehicle model A to vehicle model B, the cover assembly 10 is completely disassembled and replaced with a cover assembly 10 that is compatible with the shape of vehicle model B, improving the versatility of the electronic rearview mirror device.

[0078] Specifically, a first connecting shaft 31 is provided at the end of the mirror cover 3. When the electronic rearview mirror device is equipped with a cover plate assembly 10, a connecting part is provided on the inner cover plate 102 and is hinged to the first connecting shaft 31. The mirror cover 3 can be driven by at least one of the power mechanisms to complete at least one opening or closing action. The opening action is to rotate the mirror cover 3 to open the opening end, and the closing action is to rotate the mirror cover 3 to close the opening end.

[0079] Correspondingly, according to the opening and closing actions of the lens cover 3, the lens cover 3 has an open position and a closed position. When the lens cover 3 is in the open position, the lens cover 3 opens its opening end to allow the camera mechanism 2 to extend from the opening end; when the lens cover 3 is in the closed position, the lens cover 3 closes its opening end. When the lens cover 3 is in the open position, the lens cover 3 is completely housed in the receiving chamber 11.

[0080] Specifically, when one of the power mechanisms drives the camera mechanism 2 to move, the camera mechanism 2 has a retracted position and an extended position. When the camera mechanism 2 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the lens cover 3 moves from the closed position to the open position. When the camera mechanism 2 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the lens cover 3 moves from the open position to the closed position. When the lens cover 3 moves from the closed position to the open position, the lens cover 3 is completely housed in the receiving chamber 11, that is, housed on the side closer to the retracted position, thereby preventing the lens cover 3 from extending out together with the camera mechanism 2, reducing wind resistance and wind noise.

[0081] like Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, only the camera mechanism 2 in the electronic rearview mirror device can extend from the opening end. Compared with the existing electronic rearview mirror device, the structure of the electronic rearview mirror located outside the vehicle body S during use is greatly reduced, which can reduce wind resistance and wind noise during vehicle driving.

[0082] In this specification, a single power mechanism may be provided, which simultaneously drives the lens cover 3 and the camera mechanism 2. Alternatively, two power mechanisms may be provided, one for driving the lens cover 3 between a closed position and an open position, and the other for driving the camera mechanism 2 to extend and retract from the open end.

[0083] In this embodiment, when a power mechanism is provided, the power mechanism includes: a power source assembly; a first motion assembly 4 and a second motion assembly 5 that are connected to the power source assembly in a transmission manner, wherein the first motion assembly 4 drives the camera mechanism 2 to move between a retracted position and an extended position, and the second motion assembly 5 drives the lens cover 3 to move.

[0084] Specifically, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first motion component 4 includes: a first linkage mechanism 41 that is connected to the power source component for transmission. The end of the first linkage mechanism 41 is connected to the camera assembly 2. The first linkage mechanism 41 can retract and extend under the drive of the power source component, so as to drive the camera assembly 2 to move between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0085] Normally, when the electronic rearview mirror device is not in use, the camera mechanism 2 should be retracted into the receiving chamber 11, so that the first linkage mechanism 41 can be in a retracted state; when it is necessary to extend the camera mechanism 2, the power source assembly is activated to drive the first linkage mechanism 41 to perform an unfolding movement, so that the camera mechanism 2 can be driven to the extended position.

[0086] In one specific embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 41 includes a first linkage unit, a second linkage unit, and a third linkage unit that are hinged in sequence. The third linkage unit has a generally horizontal horizontal section and a generally vertical vertical section, that is, the third linkage unit is a T-shaped structure. The two ends of the horizontal section can be rotatably connected to the second linkage unit and the camera mechanism 2, respectively. The vertical section is provided with a damping element 42 for providing damping for the camera mechanism 2.

[0087] In this embodiment, the three linkage units are hinged by pins, and the horizontal section is hinged to the outer shell of the camera assembly 2. The damping element 42 can be an elastic element, thereby providing corresponding force to the camera assembly 2 when the first linkage mechanism 41 retracts and expands. When the first linkage mechanism 41 is in the retracted state, as... Figure 5As shown, when the camera mechanism 2 is in the retracted position, the damping element 42 is compressed, causing the camera mechanism 2 to tend to move towards the extended position, thus providing thrust to the camera mechanism 2. When the first linkage mechanism 41 is in the extended state, the damping element 42 releases its stored elastic potential energy, which can drive the camera mechanism 2 to move towards the extended position, at which point the damping element 42 provides resistance to the camera mechanism 2. Therefore, when the camera mechanism 2 is extended, if it is subjected to external force, the resistance provided by the damping element 42 helps it return to its original position, preventing the camera mechanism 2 from retracting due to accidental contact or external impact.

[0088] In one embodiment, the electronic rearview mirror device includes a first elastic element 32 that provides an elastic restoring force to the mirror cover 3. The combined action of the first elastic element 32 and the second motion component 5 drives the mirror cover 3 to move between a closed position and an open position.

[0089] like Figure 3 As shown, when the electronic rearview mirror is not in use, the camera mechanism 2 retracts into the receiving chamber 11, and the mirror cover 3 is in the closed position. At this time, the elastic restoring force provided by the first elastic element 32 to the mirror cover 3 gives it a tendency to rotate toward the receiving chamber 11. When the camera mechanism 2 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the elastic restoring force provided by the first elastic element 32 can drive the mirror cover 3 to move toward the open position. When the camera mechanism 2 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the second motion component 5 can drive the mirror cover 3 to move from the open position to the closed position.

[0090] In some possible embodiments, the first elastic element 32 can be a torsion spring, which can be disposed on the first connecting shaft 31 of the lens cover 3 to provide an elastic restoring force that enables the lens cover 3 to be rotated open. When the lens cover 3 is in the closed position, the first elastic element 32 applies an upward torque to the first connecting shaft so that the lens cover 3 moves toward the open position when it disengages from the abutment. When the second motion component 5 moves the lens cover 3 from the open position to the closed position, the first elastic element 32 can accumulate elastic potential energy.

[0091] In some possible embodiments, the first elastic element 32 is a spring, one end of which is connected to the lens cover 3 and the other end to the cover plate assembly 10, to provide an elastic restoring force for the lens cover 3 to rotate and open. When the lens cover 3 is in the closed position, the first elastic element 32 applies a pushing force to the lens cover 3 toward the open position, so that the lens cover 3 moves toward the open position when it disengages from the abutment. When the second motion assembly 5 moves the lens cover 3 from the open position to the closed position, the first elastic element 32 can accumulate elastic potential energy.

[0092] Specifically, the second motion component 5 may include: a second linkage mechanism 51 that is driveably connected to the power source component, and a positioning plate 52 disposed at the end of the second linkage mechanism 51. The positioning plate 52 has a positioning position and an operating position. When the camera mechanism 2 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the positioning plate 52 can move from the operating position to the positioning position to limit the lens cover 3 to the open position when it is in the positioning position. When the camera mechanism 2 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the positioning plate 52 can move from the positioning position to the operating position to push the lens cover 3 to the closed position when it reaches the operating position.

[0093] Similar to the first linkage mechanism 41, the second linkage mechanism 51 may also include a fourth linkage unit, a fifth linkage unit, and a sixth linkage unit that are hinged sequentially. These three linkage units are hinged together by pins and can retract and expand under the drive of a power mechanism. The sixth linkage unit is connected to a positioning plate 52, which can position and push the mirror cover 3 during the movement of the second linkage mechanism 51.

[0094] In one specific implementation, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the positioning plate 52 includes a quarter gear and a side plate connected to the gear, and the electronic rearview mirror device includes a rack 54 that meshes with the gear, the rack 54 being disposed on the moving path of the positioning plate 52.

[0095] In this embodiment, the rack 54 is fixedly disposed relative to the positioning plate 52, and the gear is provided with a shaft. The shaft is hinged to the sixth linkage unit. The gear is driven by meshing with the rack 54, and its shaft moves back and forth along the direction of the rack 54, so that the positioning plate 52 can move between the positioning position and the operating position.

[0096] To achieve the purpose of positioning and pushing the lens cover 3, the side plate extends longitudinally towards the inner side of the receiving chamber. When the gear moves to the positioning position, the side plate is exactly above the lens cover 3, thereby limiting the rotation of the lens cover 3. That is, the lens cover 3 is rotated and limited by the combined action of the first elastic element 32 and the side plate, so as to stop the lens cover 3 in the open position, at which time the camera mechanism 2 can smoothly extend from the opening end. When the gear moves from the positioning position to the operating position, the side plate is driven to rotate by the gear. During the rotation, it can push the lens cover 3 to rotate in a direction away from the receiving chamber 11 until the gear reaches the operating position, at which point the side plate can push the lens cover 3 to the closed position.

[0097] Furthermore, the second motion assembly 5 also includes a second elastic member 53 that provides an elastic restoring force to the positioning plate 52. When the mirror cover 3 moves from the closed position to the open position, the elastic restoring force applied by the second elastic member 53 to the positioning plate 52 enables it to move toward the positioning position.

[0098] When the electronic rearview mirror device is equipped with a housing 1, the second elastic element 53 can be disposed between the positioning plate 52 and the inner wall of the housing 1, so as to pull the positioning plate 52 toward the positioning position together with the sixth linkage unit. In particular, when the mirror cover 3 is disengaged from the abutment, it is driven by the first elastic element 32 to move from the closed position toward the open position. At this time, the positioning plate 52 can be pushed by the mirror cover 3, and with the cooperation of the second elastic element 53, it can quickly move to the positioning position to limit the mirror cover 3 performing the opening action.

[0099] In other feasible embodiments, the first elastic element 32 can also provide an elastic restoring force to the lens cover 3, causing it to tend to rotate away from the receiving chamber 11. Specifically, when the camera mechanism 2 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the second motion component 5 can drive the lens cover 3 to move from the closed position to the open position, and when the camera mechanism 2 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the elastic restoring force provided by the first elastic element 32 can drive the lens cover 3 to move from the open position to the closed position.

[0100] Unlike the embodiments described above, the first elastic member 32 can provide the mirror cover 3 with an elastic restoring force to perform the closing action. Its arrangement can be referred to the embodiments described above, and will not be exemplified here. The second motion component 5 further includes a pulley mechanism disposed between the mirror cover 3 and the positioning plate 52, including pulleys and a belt, to drive the mirror cover 3 to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0101] In this embodiment, when the camera mechanism 2 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the positioning plate 52 can move from the operating position to the positioning position. During the movement of the positioning plate 52, the mirror cover 3 is driven to rotate toward the receiving chamber 11 through the pulley mechanism, so that the mirror cover 3 performs an opening action. When the camera mechanism 2 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the positioning plate 52 can move from the positioning position to the operating position. The elastic restoring force provided by the first elastic element 32 drives the mirror cover 3 to rotate away from the receiving chamber 11, so that the mirror cover 3 performs a closing action.

[0102] Alternatively, in some feasible implementations, the opening and closing actions of the lens cover 3 can be completed solely by the second motion component 5. Similar to the previous embodiment, the second motion component 5 includes a pulley mechanism disposed between the lens cover 3 and the positioning plate 52, comprising pulleys and a belt, to drive the lens cover 3 to move between the closed position and the open position.

[0103] In this embodiment, when the camera mechanism 2 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the positioning plate 52 can move from the operating position to the positioning position. During the movement of the positioning plate 52, the mirror cover 3 is driven to rotate toward the receiving chamber 11 through the pulley mechanism, so that the mirror cover 3 moves from the closed position to the open position. When the camera mechanism 2 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the positioning plate 52 can move from the positioning position to the operating position. During the movement of the positioning plate 52, the mirror cover 3 is driven to rotate toward the direction away from the receiving chamber 11 through the pulley mechanism, so that the mirror cover 3 moves from the open position to the closed position.

[0104] In other feasible implementations, when there are two power mechanisms, they include: a first power mechanism and a second power mechanism. The first power mechanism includes: a first power source assembly and a first motion assembly 4 that is drivenly connected to the first power source assembly. The second power mechanism includes: a second power source assembly and a second motion assembly 5 that is drivenly connected to the second power source assembly.

[0105] Unlike all the embodiments described above, in this embodiment, the first motion component 4 and the second motion component 5 are driven by corresponding power source components to independently complete the movement of the lens cover 3 and the movement of the camera mechanism 2.

[0106] When the electronic rearview mirror is not in use, the mirror cover 3 should be closed at the opening of the receiving chamber 11. When the electronic rearview mirror needs to be used, the mirror cover 3 should rotate toward the receiving chamber 11, that is, rotate toward the side closer to the retracted position to open the opening. Therefore, the positioning plate 52 is located near the end of the rack 54 relative to the operating position, while the operating position is located at the far end of the rack 54. Thus, when the electronic rearview mirror is not in use, the second linkage mechanism 51 is in the extended state; when the electronic rearview mirror needs to be used, the power mechanism drives the second linkage mechanism 51 to the retracted state.

[0107] In a specific embodiment, such as Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the power source assembly includes: a motor 9; a lead screw 92 connected to the motor 9 in a transmission manner; and a slider 8 disposed on the lead screw 92. The motor 9 is provided with a motor shaft, which is connected to the lead screw 92 through a transmission wheel 91. The slider 8 is slidably disposed on the lead screw 92. During operation, the motor 9 can drive the slider 8 to move on the lead screw 92.

[0108] The first linkage mechanism 41 and the second linkage mechanism 51 are connected to the slider 8. When the slider 8 moves on the lead screw 92, it can cause one of the first linkage mechanism 41 and the second linkage mechanism 51 to retract, while the other retracts. Specifically, when the electronic rearview mirror device is not in use, the first linkage mechanism 41 is in a retracted state and the second linkage mechanism 51 is in an retracted state. When the electronic rearview mirror device needs to be used, the start motor 9 rotates in the first direction, causing the slider 8 to move toward the first linkage mechanism 41. This causes the first linkage mechanism 41 to change from a retracted state to an retracted state, thereby causing the camera mechanism 2 to move toward the extended position. At the same time, the retracted state of the second linkage mechanism 51 is unlocked, and it changes to a retracted state, causing the positioning plate 52 to move toward the positioning position.

[0109] When the camera mechanism 2 needs to be retracted, the start motor 9 rotates in the second direction, causing the slider 8 to move toward the second linkage mechanism 51. This drives the second linkage mechanism 51 from the retracted state to the extended state, thereby moving the positioning plate 52 toward the operating position. At the same time, the extended state of the first linkage mechanism 41 is unlocked and it is turned into the retracted state, causing the camera mechanism 2 to move toward the retracted position.

[0110] Of course, the slider 8 is not limited to one. In an extended embodiment, the first linkage mechanism 41 and the second linkage mechanism 51 connect two sliders. The above action can also be completed by the movement of the two sliders on the lead screw 92.

[0111] In this embodiment, the first motion component 4 and the second motion component 5 can be driven by controlling the motor 9 to rotate along a first direction and a second direction, thereby realizing the coordinated action of the camera mechanism 2 and the lens cover 3. The first direction and the second direction are opposite directions; if the first direction is a forward rotation direction, then the second direction is a reverse rotation direction, or if the first direction is a reverse rotation direction, then the second direction is a forward rotation direction. Of course, the logic of the motor 9 controlling the first motion component 4 and the second motion component 5 is not limited to the above example, and this application does not make specific limitations here.

[0112] In one implementation, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the electronic rearview mirror device also includes: a slide rail 7 disposed on the moving path of the camera mechanism 2, the slide rail 7 having a connecting end 71 and a free end 72; when the camera mechanism 2 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the free end 72 rotates around the connecting end 71 to disengage from the mirror cover 3; when the camera mechanism 2 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the free end 72 rotates around the connecting end 71 to abut against the mirror cover 3.

[0113] Specifically, the slide rail 7 is located at the bottom of the receiving chamber 11, and a roller 21 that contacts the slide rail 7 is located below the outer shell of the camera mechanism 2. The connecting end 71 of the slide rail 7 is provided with a second connecting shaft 75, which can be hinged to the rear wall of the housing 1, so that the free end 72 of the slide rail 7 can rotate freely about the connecting end 71.

[0114] In this embodiment, when the mirror cover 3 closes its open end, the first elastic element 32 continuously applies an elastic restoring force to the mirror cover 3, and the free end 72 of the slide rail 7 abuts against the mirror cover 3 to prevent the mirror cover 3 from opening inward. When the free end 72 rotates around the connecting end 71 until it disengages from the mirror cover 3, the mirror cover 3 loses its abutment and can open inward under the elastic restoring force of the first elastic element 32 until it reaches the open position.

[0115] To allow the free end 72 to rotate and disengage from the lens cover 3, the slide rail 7 has a certain slope, including a first step and a second step. When the camera mechanism 2 is in the retracted position, the roller 21 below the camera mechanism 2 stops at the first step, at which point the free end 72 remains against the lens cover 3. When the camera mechanism 2 is moved towards the extended position by the first linkage mechanism 41, the roller 21 moves across the ramp to the second step, and the free end 72 rotates downward around the connecting end 71, disengaging the lens cover 3. After the lens cover 3 disengages, it can push the positioning plate 52. At the same time, the extended state of the second linkage mechanism 51 is unlocked, which can move the positioning plate 52 towards the positioning position, thereby simultaneously completing the opening of the lens cover 3 and the extension of the camera mechanism 2.

[0116] Furthermore, a third elastic element 76 is provided on the second connecting shaft 75. The third elastic element 76 is used to provide an elastic restoring force when the free end rotates. Similar to the first elastic element 32, the third elastic element 76 can be a torsion spring, which can apply an upward torque to the second connecting shaft 75, or a spring, which can provide a thrust to the slide rail 7. This allows the slide rail 7 to rotate and reset when the camera mechanism 2 moves along the slide rail 7 toward the retracted position, so that it can again abut against the lens cover 3 when the lens cover 3 moves to the closed position.

[0117] In a specific application scenario, the electronic rearview mirror device provided in the embodiments of this specification is further illustrated:

[0118] The electronic rearview mirror device includes a housing 1 with a receiving chamber 11 and a cover assembly 10 disposed on the housing 1. The camera mechanism 2, the mirror cover 3, and the power mechanism can all be housed in the receiving chamber 11, forming an integral module. When the integral module is installed on the vehicle body S, mounting holes corresponding to the size and shape of the housing 1 are pre-designed on the vehicle body S. The integral module is then installed into the mounting holes, with the cover assembly 10 and the mirror cover 3 facing outwards from the vehicle body S. The shapes of the mirror cover 3 and the cover assembly 10 can be designed to correspond to the vehicle body shape, so that the mirror cover 3 and the cover assembly 10 are connected to the overall shape of the vehicle body. When the camera mechanism 2 is retracted into the receiving chamber 11, the mirror cover 3 and the cover assembly 10 can be regarded as part of the vehicle body S.

[0119] When the electronic rearview mirror is not in use, the first linkage mechanism 41 is in a fully retracted state, the camera mechanism 2 is in the retracted position, and the free end 72 of the slide rail 7 abuts against the mirror cover 3. The second linkage mechanism 51 is in a fully extended state, the positioning plate 52 is in the operating position, and the second elastic element 53 is in a stretched state.

[0120] When the electronic rearview mirror device is needed, the start motor 9 rotates in the first direction, causing the slider 8 to move towards the first linkage mechanism 41. This causes the first linkage mechanism 41 to change from a retracted state to an extended state. Under the action of the damping member 42, the camera module 2 moves along the ramp of the slide rail 7 towards the extended position. When the roller 21 below the camera module 2 moves to the second step of the ramp, the free end 72 can rotate downwards around the connecting end 71, disengaging the abutment of the mirror cover 3 and pushing the side plate in the positioning plate 52, causing the gear to move along the rack 54. At the same time, the extended state of the second linkage mechanism 51 is unlocked, changing to a retracted state. The second linkage mechanism 51 and the second elastic member 53 pull the positioning plate 52 towards the positioning position. When the side plate rotates above the mirror cover 3, it limits the rotation of the mirror cover 3, and the camera module 2 extends from the opening end, with the first linkage mechanism 41 in a fully extended state.

[0121] When the electronic rearview mirror device is not in use, the start motor 9 rotates in the second direction, causing the slider 8 to move towards the second linkage mechanism 51. This drives the second linkage mechanism 51 from a retracted state to an extended state, thereby moving the positioning plate 52 towards the operating position. During the rotation of the gear, the side plate rotates, causing the mirror cover 3 to rotate away from the receiving chamber 11 until it reaches the operating position. At this point, the second linkage mechanism 51 is fully extended, closing the mirror cover 3 at the open end. Simultaneously, the extended state of the first linkage mechanism 41 is unlocked, and it retracts, causing the camera mechanism 2 to retract. The camera mechanism 2 moves along the slide rail 7 towards the retracted position. As the camera mechanism 2 moves towards the retracted position, the slide rail 7 rotates and resets under the action of the third elastic element 76, so that when the mirror cover 3 is closed, the free end 72 of the slide rail 7 again abuts against the mirror cover 3.

[0122] This manual also provides a vehicle, such as Figures 1 to 13 As shown, the vehicle body S has an opening, and an electronic rearview mirror device is installed in the opening; the electronic rearview mirror device includes: a housing 1 having a receiving chamber having an open end; a camera mechanism 2 disposed in the receiving chamber; a mirror cover 3 movably disposed in the open end; and at least one power mechanism disposed in the receiving chamber, wherein one of the power mechanisms is used to drive the camera mechanism 2 to extend and retract from the open end.

[0123] The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of this application, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of this application and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application. All equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0124] All articles and references disclosed herein, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference for various purposes. The term “substantially constitutes…” used to describe a combination should include the identified elements, components, parts, or steps, as well as other elements, components, parts, or steps that do not substantially affect the essential novelty of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, components, parts, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments substantially constituted by such elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of the term “may” herein is intended to indicate that any described attribute included by “may” is optional.

[0125] Multiple elements, components, parts, or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, component, part, or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, component, part, or step can be divided into multiple separate elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of "a" or "an" to describe an element, component, part, or step does not imply the exclusion of other elements, components, parts, or steps.

[0126] It should be understood that the above description is for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. Many embodiments and applications beyond the provided examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. For purposes of completeness, all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An electronic rearview mirror device, characterized in that, include: A housing having a receiving chamber having an open end; The camera mechanism is installed in the receiving chamber; A mirror cover that is movably disposed at the opening end; At least one power mechanism is disposed in the receiving chamber, one of the power mechanisms being used to drive the camera mechanism to extend and retract from the opening end; At least one of the power mechanisms is used to drive the mirror cover to a closed position and / or an open position, and when the mirror cover moves from the closed position to the open position, the mirror cover is fully received in the receiving chamber; only the camera mechanism in the electronic rearview mirror device can extend from the opening end.

2. The electronic rearview mirror device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The power mechanism includes: a power source assembly; a first motion assembly and a second motion assembly that are connected to the power source assembly in a transmission manner, wherein the first motion assembly is used to drive the camera mechanism to move between a retracted position and an extended position, and the second motion assembly is used to drive the lens cover to move.

3. The electronic rearview mirror device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first motion component includes a first linkage mechanism that is drively connected to the power source component, and the end of the first linkage mechanism is connected to the camera mechanism.

4. The electronic rearview mirror device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The device includes: a first elastic element that provides an elastic restoring force to the mirror cover; When the camera mechanism moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the elastic restoring force provided by the first elastic element can drive the lens cover to move from the closed position to the open position. When the camera mechanism moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the second motion component can drive the lens cover to move from the open position to the closed position.

5. The electronic rearview mirror device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The device includes: a slide rail disposed on the moving path of the camera mechanism, the slide rail having a connecting end and a free end; when the camera mechanism moves from the retracted position toward the extended position, the free end rotates about the connecting end to disengage from the lens cover; when the camera mechanism moves from the extended position toward the retracted position, the free end rotates about the connecting end to abut against the lens cover.

6. The electronic rearview mirror device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The second motion component includes: a second linkage mechanism that is drively connected to the power source component, and a positioning plate disposed at the end of the second linkage mechanism, the positioning plate having a positioning position and an operating position; When the camera mechanism moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the positioning plate can move from the operating position to the positioning position to limit the lens cover to the open position when it reaches the positioning position. When the camera mechanism moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the positioning plate can move from the positioning position to the operating position to push the lens cover to the closed position when it reaches the operating position.

7. The electronic rearview mirror device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The second motion component includes a second elastic member disposed between the housing and the positioning plate. When the mirror cover moves from the closed position to the open position, the elastic member applies an elastic restoring force to the positioning plate, enabling it to move towards the positioning position.

8. The electronic rearview mirror device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The device includes: a first elastic element that provides an elastic restoring force to the mirror cover; When the camera mechanism moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the second motion component can drive the lens cover to move from the closed position to the open position. When the camera mechanism moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the elastic restoring force provided by the first elastic element can drive the lens cover to move from the open position to the closed position.

9. The electronic rearview mirror device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The power mechanism is provided in two parts, one of which is used to drive the lens cover to move between the closed position and the open position, and the other is used to drive the camera mechanism to extend and retract from the opening end.

10. The electronic rearview mirror device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The device includes: a cover plate assembly detachably mounted on the housing, the cover plate assembly having the opening formed thereon, and the mirror cover being rotatably connected to the cover plate assembly.

11. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle body has an opening, and the opening is equipped with an electronic rearview mirror device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

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