External Vision Unit

Abstract

The invention relates to an external vision unit (1) for a vehicle. The unit comprises a base (2) for connection to the vehicle and a rotating housing (3) mounted at the base, the rotating housing being rotatable between at least a parking position, an operating position and an extreme over-folded position. The housing comprises a camera unit (4) with a lens (5). The external vision unit comprises an adjustable cover (6) for temporarily covering the lens. The cover is adjustable between a covering position and a release position. The external vision unit further comprises an adjustment device (7) for adjusting the cover between the covering position and the release position of the cover or between the release position and the covering position of the cover. The adjustment device is provided with an adjustment element connected to the cover so that the cover is adjusted when the adjustment device is moved. In addition, the adjustment device comprises an initially movable clamping device (8), which is designed to temporarily engage with the adjustment device connected to the cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an exterior vision unit for a vehicle, such as a motor vehicle. In particular, the exterior vision unit comprises: a base for connection to the vehicle; a housing pivotably mounted to the base and capable of pivoting between at least i) a parking position, ii) an operating position and iii) an extreme overfold position; a camera unit with a lens accommodated in the housing; and an adjustable cover for temporarily covering the lens, the cover being adjustable between a covering position and a release position, in which the cover covers the lens of the camera unit and in which the cover releases the lens of the camera unit.

[0002] Such exterior vision units are known and are typically used to observe and / or monitor the position of a vehicle relative to its surroundings.

[0003] Such an external vision unit is disclosed, for example, in the Netherlands patent application NL2019024, which has not yet been published.

[0004] When the vehicle is not in use, the lens may be protected by means of a cover, for example from weather influences and / or damage caused by accidents or vandalism.

[0005] The external visual unit may comprise adjustment means for adjusting the cover between a covering position and a release position, or between a release position and a covering position. As a result of having such an adjustment means, which may for example comprise in particular an actuator, in particular an electric motor, it may be difficult to produce a relatively compact housing. However, a relatively compact housing may be desirable, for example from an aesthetic point of view, or because a relatively large housing may generate relatively large air resistance in the operating position, with the result that, for example, relatively large energy may be consumed when driving the vehicle and / or relatively large noise may be generated by the wind during driving.

[0006] Furthermore, from WO 2017 / 048126 A1 an external vision unit is known, which has a base that can be located in a vehicle body, wherein the external vision unit comprises a housing accommodating a camera unit, wherein the housing is pivotably mounted to the base between i) an operating position, in which the camera housing protrudes relative to the base and the vehicle body, and ii) a storage position, in which the lens of the camera unit is released in order to provide vision for the camera unit, and in which the camera housing is almost folded in the base. The camera housing pivotably mounted to the base does not have any adjustable cover for covering the lens.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide an alternative external vision unit, in particular an alternative external vision unit that overcomes at least one disadvantage of one or more existing external vision units. More specifically, an object of the present invention is to provide an alternative external vision unit having a relatively compact housing. Summary of the invention

[0008] The present invention provides an exterior vision unit for a vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle, the exterior vision unit comprising a housing for connection to a base of the vehicle, pivotably mounted to the base, the housing being pivotable between at least i) a parking position, ii) a working position and iii) an extreme over-folded position, a camera unit having a lens, the camera unit being accommodated in the housing, an adjustable cover for temporarily covering the lens, the adjustable cover being adjustable between a covering position and a release position, in which the adjustable cover covers the lens of the camera unit, and in which the adjustable cover releases the lens of the camera unit, and an adjustment device for adjusting the cover between its covering position and its release position or between its release position and its covering position, wherein the adjustment device comprises an adjustment element coupled to the cover so that the cover is adjusted when the adjustment element moves, and a first displaceable engagement element, the first displaceable engagement element being configured to temporarily engage with the adjustment element coupled to the cover.

[0009] Since the first displaceable engagement element is configured to temporarily engage with the adjusting element coupled to the cover, the adjusting element does not have to be continuously connected to the displaceable engagement element of the adjusting device. This can be very advantageous. For example, when the displaceable engagement element moves, the stroke performed by the engagement element (for example, which can be provided at the far end of a flexible cable or other transmission element) does not have to correspond precisely to the stroke that the adjusting element should perform to adjust the cover from its release position to its covering position or from its covering position to its release position. In particular, when the first displaceable engagement element is displaced to adjust the adjustable cover between its covering position and its release position, the first displaceable engagement element can perform a larger stroke than the adjusting element itself from its release position to its covering position or from its covering position to its release position. Therefore, the displaceable engagement element can, for example, complete a portion of its stroke before engaging with the adjusting element coupled to the cover. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible that, after the cover has been fully adjusted, i.e. after the adjustment element coupled to the cover has completed its stroke, the engagement element still carries out the remainder of its stroke and is thus still displaced further. Since the first displaceable engagement element is configured to temporarily engage the adjustment element thereby allowing the size of the stroke or displacement of the displaceable engagement element to not necessarily be equal to the size of the stroke or displacement of the adjustment element coupled to the cover, for example production tolerances do not have to be very precise to ensure that the cover is actually opened and / or closed far enough. Additionally or alternatively, since the stroke of the engagement element therefore does not have to be exactly equal to the stroke of the adjustment element, the disadvantage that the cover can no longer be properly adjusted over time can also be overcome if the dimensions of certain components of the external vision unit, in particular the dimensions of the adjustment device, change during the use and / or life of the external vision unit, for example due to wear, stretching or temperature changes. Since the displaceable engagement element is configured to temporarily engage the adjustment element such that a flexible cable or other transmission element in which the displaceable engagement element may be arranged is not continuously connected to the adjustment element, for example changes in the length of the transmission element (e.g. due to thermal expansion caused by temperature differences and / or e.g. due to elongation over time) can be absorbed relatively simply without affecting the degree of adjustability of the cover and / or without inappropriately defining the covering position and / or the release position.

[0010] Since the displaceable engagement element is configured to temporarily engage with the adjustment element coupled to the cover, major adverse effects, such as due to the lens not being fully released (as in the case of an autonomous vehicle), can be eliminated. On the other hand, this can also eliminate relatively rapid damage and / or contamination due to the lens not being well protected.

[0011] The external visual unit may be configured such that when the first displaceable engagement element moves while being temporarily engaged with the adjustment element, the adjustment element coupled to the cover moves together with the first displaceable engagement element, such that the cover can be adjusted between its covering position and its release position or between its release position and its covering position.

[0012] Preferably, the adjusting device is also provided with a drive device for moving the first displaceable engagement element. In particular, the drive device can be located at a distance from the first displaceable engagement element. More specifically, the adjusting device can also be provided with a transmission element for transmitting the movement of the drive device to the first displaceable engagement element, when the transmission element is connected to the drive device on a first side, for example at or near the first end, and the first displaceable engagement element is provided on a second side, in particular at or near the second end, the transmission element can move from a starting position via at least a first intermediate position of the transmission element to an end position of the transmission element, in which the first displaceable engagement element is not yet engaged with the adjusting element in a manner that enables the first displaceable engagement element to cause the adjustment element to move, and in the first intermediate position, the first displaceable engagement element is engaged with the adjusting element and causes the adjusting element to move together with the first displaceable engagement element.

[0013] By providing the transmission element (which may comprise an elongated transmission element, such as a flexible cable, in particular a Bowden cable, or a rigid drive shaft), at least a part of the drive device (which may comprise, for example, an electric motor) may be arranged at a distance from the cover. Thus, since the drive device does not need to be arranged near the camera unit, for example a higher degree of design freedom may be provided and / or a relatively compact housing may be used, for example.

[0014] Since the transmission element can be coupled to the drive device on a first side and can be provided with the first displaceable engagement element configured to temporarily engage the adjustment element coupled to the cover on a second side, in particular at or near the second end, the adjustment element does not have to be continuously connected to the drive device. As already explained above, this contributes to a relatively good adjustment of the cover.

[0015] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, for proper operation, the external vision unit may be configured such that during use of the camera unit housed in the external vision unit housing, the housing should allow the lens of the camera unit housed therein to remain at least partially transparent, particularly on the side of the lens facing outwards, so as to allow use of the camera unit. In particular, the side of the lens pointing outwards may be considered to be the front of the lens.

[0016] The housing in which the camera unit is housed may be considered a camera housing. The adjustable cover may be mounted on and / or in the housing. The adjustable cover (which relates to a part different from the housing and also to a part different from the base) may be adjusted relative to the housing for temporarily covering the lens, in particular its outwardly facing side, so that the cover is adjustable between a covering position, in which the cover covers the lens of the camera unit, and a release position, in which the cover releases the lens of the camera unit. Obviously, when covering the lens, the cover may be located above the lens, in particular may be located on the front side of the lens or in front of it facing outwardly, and when releasing the lens, the cover may be moved away so that it no longer covers the lens and is therefore no longer located on the front side of the lens or in front of it facing outwardly.

[0017] The cover may, for example, be rotatable relative to the housing. Alternatively or additionally, the cover may, for example, be slidable relative to the housing.

[0018] Preferably, the lens of the camera unit housed in the housing, more preferably the entire camera unit, can be arranged substantially rigidly in the housing. For example, in such an embodiment, the cover can be adjusted relative to the lens by, for example, sliding and / or rotating the cover relative to the lens, so that the cover can be adjusted between a covering position and a release position, in which the cover covers the lens of the camera unit and in which the cover releases the lens of the camera unit.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment according to one aspect of the invention, the external visual unit is configured such that, in the end position of the transmission element, the first displaceable engagement element no longer engages with the adjustment element coupled to the cover in such a way that the first displaceable engagement element can cause the adjustment element to move. It can therefore be considered that the stroke produced by the transmission element not only does not have to exactly coincide with the movement of the adjustment element and therefore with the cover coupled to the adjustment element at the beginning of the movement, but also does not have to exactly correspond to the movement stroke produced by the adjustment element at the end of the movement.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the transfer element is provided with a second displaceable engagement element on its second side, in particular at or near the second end, and the second displaceable engagement element is configured to temporarily engage with the adjusting element connected to the cover, so that when the engagement element moves while temporarily engaging with the adjusting element, the adjusting element connected to the cover moves together with the second displaceable engagement element, so that the cover is adjusted between its release position and its covering position or between its covering position and its release position, and the transfer element is capable of moving from the end position to the starting position via at least a second intermediate position, in which the second displaceable engagement element engages with the adjusting element and causes the adjusting element to move together with the second displaceable engagement element, and in the starting position, the second displaceable engagement element no longer engages with the adjusting element in a manner that enables the second displaceable engagement element to cause the adjusting element to move. Thus, likewise, the travel performed by the transmission element can deviate from the travel performed by the adjustment element when the lid is moved in another way, i.e., for example, when opening rather than closing, since the transmission element can also be engaged and disengaged from the adjustment element and is therefore only temporarily coupled thereto, or, so to speak, detachably connected thereto. Preferably, the external visual unit is then configured such that, in the end position of the transmission element, the second displaceable engagement element is not yet engaged with the adjustment element coupled to the lid, so that the travel performed by the transmission element at the beginning and at the end of its movement does not necessarily correspond exactly to the travel performed by the adjustment element.

[0021] By integrating the first displaceable engagement element and the second displaceable engagement element in an integrated engagement element or a so-called combined engagement element, a relatively simple and / or relatively compact configuration may be provided.

[0022] By configuring the first displaceable engagement element and the adjusting element so that they can temporarily hook onto each other, and / or by configuring the second displaceable engagement element and the adjusting element so that they can temporarily hook onto each other, a relatively simple and / or relatively safe construction can be provided. In particular, the adjusting element can be provided with a first bearing surface, on which the first engagement surface of the first displaceable engagement element can be hooked, so that when the transmission element coupled to the first displaceable engagement element moves from a first intermediate position to an end position, the adjusting element can move together with the first displaceable engagement element, and the adjusting element can also be provided with a second bearing surface, on which the second engagement surface formed by the second displaceable engagement element can be hooked, so that when the transmission element coupled to the second displaceable engagement element moves from a first intermediate position to a starting position, the adjusting element can move together with the second displaceable engagement element.

[0023] By substantially rigidly coupling the adjustment element to the cover, such that the cover moves directly with the adjustment element when the adjustment element is moved by the first displaceable engagement element or when the adjustment element is moved by the second displaceable engagement element, a relatively simple and / or relatively compact and / or relatively safe construction can be provided. In particular, the movement of the adjustment element, such as a pivoting movement or a sliding movement, can correspond one-to-one with the movement of the cover coupled thereto.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the adjustment element may be tiltably mounted in the housing about a tilting axis, the adjustment element being tiltable at least between a starting position in which the cover is in a releasing position and an end position in which the cover is in a covering position.

[0025] The tilt axis can, for example, extend essentially transversely to the direction in which the first displaceable coupling element connected to the second end of the transfer element is displaceable between its starting position and its end position or between its end position and its starting position, which may be advantageous when, for example, the lens of the camera is pointing in a direction roughly consistent with the transfer element.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, the tilt axis may extend substantially transversely to a direction of a longitudinal axis about which the housing can be pivoted relative to the base. Thus, components such as the adjustment element and / or other components may be arranged close to the cover and / or close to the side of the camera unit, so that a relatively low construction may be provided, whereby the housing may be made of a relatively low or relatively flat design. Alternatively, the tilt axis may also extend in other directions. For example, the cover may be tilted or rotated about a vertical tilt axis.

[0027] The adjustment device, in particular the adjustment element, may be provided with a first stop surface coupled to the cover, the first stop surface being configured to cooperate with a first blocking element arranged on the second side of the transfer element, in particular at or near the second end of the transfer element, while the external vision unit is configured such that, when the transfer element moves from the first intermediate position to the end position, the first displaceable engagement element is disengaged from the adjustment element so that the first displaceable engagement element can no longer cause the adjustment element to continue to move, the first blocking element abuts against the first stop surface so that the first blocking element prevents a possible backward movement of the adjustment element. Thus, it can be prevented that, for example, when the engagement element no longer engages with the adjustment element after the cover is opened, the adjustment element may accidentally move, causing the cover coupled thereto to accidentally close partially or even completely. In addition, for example, when the engagement element no longer engages with the adjustment element after the cover is closed, an accidental release of the lens can be prevented. It can further be prevented that, for example, the cover is accidentally opened when the housing is accidentally deployed from its parking position, so that the lens is also protected.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the drive device is also used to pivot the housing at least between a parking position and an operating position. In particular, the drive device has an actuator, such as an electric motor, which is used both to pivot the housing and to adjust the cover. In this way, the external visual unit can be relatively compact and / or relatively inexpensive. For example, due to small deviations that occur, for example, during production - caused by stretching of the transfer element over time or caused by thermal expansion, the unfolding stroke of the housing does not always correspond exactly to the stroke of, for example, the second side of the transfer element. Therefore, in embodiments in which a single drive device and / or a single actuator causes both the pivoting of the housing and the adjustment of the cover, in particular when both are done at least partially simultaneously, it can be particularly advantageous to have an engagement element that can be engaged and disengaged. Because if the transfer element is continuously connected to the adjustment element when opening the cover and unfolding the housing from its parking position to its operating position, the stroke carried out by the end of the transfer element must actually correspond exactly to the stroke when the housing is pivoted to its operating position, but it may happen that, for example due to stretching or production deviations, these strokes do not or no longer exactly correspond.

[0029] Furthermore, the external vision unit can be configured such that the housing can be pivoted into an overfolded position beyond the operating position. Since the engagement element can be disengaged from the adjustment element, in such an overfolding, the transfer element can be folded relatively far, in particular retracted, without necessarily adversely affecting the cover and / or other parts of the external vision unit, such as specific parts of the adjustment device. The external vision unit can then, for example, be configured such that, when the housing is pivoted from its operating position into its overfolded position, the second end of the transfer element is displaced far enough that the second blocking element no longer abuts against the second stop surface. For example, in order to counteract the cover being accidentally adjusted, the adjustment device may also be provided with a switchable blocking device positioned along the adjustment path of the transfer element, the switchable blocking device being switchable between a blocking state and a release state, in which the blocking device prevents the cover from possibly moving to its covering position, and in which the blocking device no longer blocks the cover, and when the external visual unit is configured such that, when the second end of the transfer element is displaced far enough that the second blocking element no longer abuts against the second stop surface when the housing is pivoted toward the over-folded position, a first switching operating element attached to the transfer element causes the switchable blocking device to enter its blocking state.

[0030] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The present invention will be further described based on the exemplary embodiments represented by the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings:

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an external vision unit according to the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a schematic diagram, partially cut away, partially in section, of a portion of the external vision unit shown in a state in which its camera lens is released by a cover;

[0034] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 a schematic diagram of the portion shown, partially cut away, with the camera lens obscured;

[0035] Figure 4A - Each of the C Figure 2 and Figure 3 Schematic diagrams, partially in section, of the portion shown, each at a respective one of the successive steps during cap adjustment;

[0036] Figure 5 Schematically shows Figure 2-4C A schematic top view of the portion shown and a partially cutaway view of the drive device in the external vision unit;

[0037] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 a schematic partial cutaway partial cross-sectional view of the portion shown in a state in which the outer vision unit is in an over-folded position; and

[0038] Figure 7 is with Figure 6 In the same state, Figure 6 A second partial cross-sectional schematic view of the portion shown.

[0039] It should be noted that the drawings are only schematic representations of preferred embodiments of the present invention, and these are given by way of non-limiting exemplary embodiments. In the exemplary embodiments, identical or corresponding components are denoted by identical reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Figure 1 An embodiment of an external vision unit 1 for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, according to the invention is shown. The external vision unit 1 comprises a base 2 for connection to a vehicle, not shown. The external vision unit 1 comprises a housing 3 which is pivotably mounted to the base 2. The housing 3 is pivotable between at least a parking position, e.g. a folded position in which the housing extends substantially along the vehicle, and an operating position, e.g. a driving position in which the housing extends substantially transversely to the vehicle. The external vision unit 1 comprises a camera unit 4 with a lens 5 accommodated in the housing 3. The external vision unit 1 comprises an adjustable cover 6 for temporarily covering the lens 5, the cover 6 being adjustable between a covering position I in which the cover 6 covers the lens 5 of the camera unit 4 and a release position II in which the lens 5 of the camera unit 4 has been released by the cover 6. Figure 1 The external vision unit 1 shown in the example includes two camera units 4 housed in a housing 3, each camera unit 4 being provided with a lens 5. The external vision unit 1 in this example includes two adjustable covers 6, one for each lens 5. As indicated by the red arrows, Figure 1 The adjustable cover 6 in the embodiment is being adjusted towards the covering position I. Of course, the external vision unit 1 may also be provided with a single camera unit 4 or more than two camera units 4, for example, each of which may be covered by their own cover 6. Alternatively, a plurality of camera units 4 may be covered with a common cover, for example when two camera units with different viewing angles are positioned next to each other.

[0041] Figure 2-7A partially cut-away, partially sectional view of a portion of an external visual unit 1 according to the invention is shown. The external visual unit 1 comprises an adjusting device 7 for adjusting the cover 6 between a covering position I and a release position II of the cover 6. Additionally or alternatively, the adjusting device 7 is configured to adjust the cover 6 between a release position II and a covering position I of the cover 6. The adjusting device 7 comprises an adjusting element 9, which is coupled to the cover 6 so that the cover 6 is displaced when the adjusting element 9 is moved. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the adjusting element 9 is, for example, mounted tiltably in the housing 3 around an axis, the adjusting element 9 being coupled to the cover 6 via the axis. This will be further explained below. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the adjusting element 9 may also be integrated with the cover 6, for example forming part of the cover 6, in particular when the cover 6 is directly moved, as will be further explained below.

[0042] The adjustment device 7 comprises a first displaceable engagement element 8a which is configured to temporarily engage with an adjustment element 9 coupled to the cover 6. Figure 4A -C, when the first displaceable engagement element 8a moves while being temporarily engaged with the adjustment element 9, the adjustment element 9 coupled to the cover 6 can move together with the first displaceable engagement element 8a. The cover 6 can thus be adjusted between its covering position I and its release position II. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that similarly, for example, when the first displaceable engagement element 8a moves in the opposite direction while being temporarily engaged with the adjustment element 9, the cover 6 can be reversely adjusted between its release position II and covering position I.

[0043] The adjustment device 7 comprises a drive device 10 for moving the first displaceable engagement element 8a. Figure 5 As can be seen in the figure, the drive device 10 is located at a distance from the first displaceable engagement element 8a, which will be further explained below. The drive device 10 shown comprises an actuator 10a, such as an electric motor, and a transmission system 10b having an output element 10c, such as an output gear or a spindle not shown.

[0044] The adjustment device 7 comprises a transmission element 11, which is a substantially elongated transmission element, for transmitting the movement of the drive device 10 to the first displaceable engagement element 8a. The transmission element 11 is coupled to the drive device 10 on its first side, in particular at or near the first end 11a, for example via an output element 10c (such as an output gear or a main shaft of a transmission system 10b not shown). The transmission element 11 is provided with the first displaceable engagement element 8a on its second side, in particular at or near the second end 11b. The transmission element 11 can be connected to the drive device 10 by means of an output element 10c, such as an output gear or a main shaft of a transmission system 10b not shown. Figure 2 The starting position A shown and described further below is moved to the transfer element as shown in FIG. Figure 3In the end position C shown and explained further below, in the starting position A, the first displaceable engagement element 8a is not yet engaged with the adjustment element 9 in such a way that the first displaceable engagement element 8a can move the adjustment element 9. The transfer element 11 can be moved via at least the first intermediate position B1 ( Figure 4A -C) moves between a starting position A and an end position C, in which in a first intermediate position B1 the first displaceable engagement element 8a engages the adjustment element 9 and moves the adjustment element 9 together with the first displaceable engagement element 8a. The starting position A of the transfer element 11 corresponds here to the release position II of the cover 6 and the working position ii of the external vision unit 1, while the end position C corresponds here to the covering position I of the cover 6 and the parking position i of the housing 3 of the external vision unit 1.

[0045] Figure 3 It is shown that the external visual unit 1 is constructed so that, in the end position C of the transfer element 11, the first displaceable engagement element 8a is no longer engaged with the adjustment element 9 connected to the cover 6 in such a way that the first displaceable engagement element 8a can cause the adjustment element 9 to move. Therefore, when the drive device 10 drives the transfer element 11, the stroke that can be performed by the transfer element 11 (at least its second end) does not have to correspond exactly to the stroke that the adjustment element 9 should perform when adjusting the cover 6 from its release position II to its covering position I. Therefore, the stroke performed by the transfer element 11 does not only not have to be completely consistent with the movement of the adjustment element 9 at the beginning of the movement, but also the stroke performed by the transfer element does not have to completely correspond to the movement stroke of the adjustment element at the end of the movement. Optionally, for example, as Figure 4C As shown, in the end position C of the transfer element 11, the first displaceable engagement element 8a can in this way engage and / or remain engaged with the adjustment element 9 coupled to the cover 6. Therefore, the travel performed by the transfer element 11 does not necessarily have to completely coincide with the movement of the adjustment element 9 only at the beginning of the movement.

[0046] The transfer element 11 shown is also provided with a second displaceable engagement element 8b on its second side, in particular at or near the second end 11b. The second displaceable engagement element 8b is configured to temporarily engage with the adjustment element 9 connected to the cover 6, so that when the engagement element 8b moves while temporarily engaging with the adjustment element 9, the adjustment element 9 connected to the cover 6 moves together with the second displaceable engagement element 8b. In this way, the cover 6 can be adjusted between its release position II and its covering position I, and conversely between its covering position I and its release position II. The transfer element 11 can be moved from the end position C( Figure 3 ) via at least the second intermediate position B2 ( Figure 4A -C) Move to the starting position A( Figure 2), in the second intermediate position B2, the second displaceable engaging element 8b engages the adjusting element 9 and causes it to move together with the second displaceable engaging element 8b, and in the starting position A, the second displaceable engaging element 8b no longer engages with the adjusting element 9 in a manner that the second displaceable engaging element 8b can cause the adjusting element 9 to move.

[0047] Figure 3 It is shown that the exterior vision unit 1 is configured such that in the end position C of the transfer element 11 the second displaceable engagement element 8 b is not yet engaged with the adjustment element 9 coupled to the cover 6 .

[0048] Figure 2-7 A partially cutaway, partially sectional view of a portion of an exterior vision unit 1 according to the invention is shown, wherein a first displaceable engagement element 8a and a second displaceable engagement element 8b are integrated in an integrated engagement element 8 or a so-called combined engagement element 8. Figure 7 As can be seen in the figure, the integrated engagement element 8 is implemented as a rod, i.e. a relatively thin small rod. In this integrated manner, the configuration can have a relatively simple and relatively compact construction. Optionally, the first displaceable engagement element 8a can be separately arranged from the second displaceable engagement element 8b, for example, roughly arranged on the opposite side of the second side of the transfer element 11 (particularly at or near the second end 11b). In this case, the adjustment element 9 connected to the cover can, for example, be composed of two parts, one part is configured to temporarily cooperate with the first displaceable engagement element 8a, for adjusting the cover 6 between the release position II and the covering position I of the cover 6, and the other part of the adjustment element 9 is configured to temporarily cooperate with the second displaceable engagement element 8b, for adjusting the cover 6 between the covering position I and the release position II of the cover 6.

[0049] In cover 6 from Figure 2 The release position II shown is adjusted to Figure 3 In the case where the cover position I is shown and the transfer element 11 is moved from the starting position A to the end position C with the assistance of the drive device 10, reference is made to Figure 2 , the first adjustable engagement element 8a has not yet engaged with the adjustment element 9. As will be further explained, Figure 2 In the embodiment, the blocking element integrated with the so-called combined engagement element 8 only rests on the stop surface integrated with the adjustment element 9 to prevent the cover from being closed accidentally. Figure 4A -C is represented by continuous steps, with the aid of the drive device 10, the first adjustable engagement element 8a is moved in the direction D1 of the end position C through the transmission element 11, the first adjustable engagement element 8a engages with the adjustment element 9, and the adjustment element 9 moves together with the first displaceable engagement element 8a.

[0050] In such Figure 3In the end position C of the transfer element 11 shown, the first displaceable engagement element 8a no longer engages with the adjustment element 9 coupled to the cover 6 in such a way that the first displaceable engagement element 8a can cause a movement of the adjustment element 9. Figure 2 The situation described, and further elaborated below, is Figure 3 , the blocking element integrated with the engagement element 8 only abuts against the stop surface integrated with the adjustment element 9 to prevent the cover from accidentally opening. A further displacement of the first displaceable engagement element 8a in the direction D1 does not result in a (further) movement of the adjustment element 9 together with the first displaceable engagement element 8a. The cover 6 is in its covering position I and a first stop 15 included in the external vision unit 1 and which may be located in the housing 3 prevents further movement of the adjustment element 9.

[0051] On the contrary, in the cover 6 from Figure 3 The cover position I shown is adjusted to Figure 2 In the release position II shown and the transmission element 11 is thereby moved in the direction D2 from the end position C to the starting position A with the assistance of the drive device 10, the adjustment element 9 is in the Figure 4C , 4B 4A. In the example shown, the first displaceable engagement element 8a and the second displaceable engagement element 8b are integrated in the integrated engagement element 8. A second stop 16 included in the external vision unit 1 and preferably located in the housing 3 prevents the adjustment element 9 from moving further.

[0052] also, Figure 2-7 It is shown that the integrated coupling element 8 is at least partially locked in the housing 3, so that the housing and / or a guide included in the housing can guide the coupling element 8 to substantially prevent the coupling element 8 from moving in directions deviating from the corresponding (movement) directions D1 and D2 of the described transfer element 11.

[0053] Figure 4A -C shows that the integrated engagement element 8 and the adjusting element 9 are configured to be temporarily hooked to each other, so that when the integrated engagement element 8 moves further after the hooking, the integrated engagement element 8 causes the adjusting element 9 to move together, that is, until the integrated engagement element 8 is unhooked from the adjusting element 9. Additionally or optionally, the first displaceable engagement element 8a and the adjusting element 9 may be configured to be temporarily hooked to each other, and / or the second displaceable engagement element 8b and the adjusting element 9 may be configured to be temporarily hooked to each other. The adjusting element 9 is provided with a first bearing surface 9a. The first engagement surface 8c of the first displaceable engagement element 8a can be hooked to the first bearing surface 9a. In this way, when the transmission element 11 connected to the first displaceable engagement element 8a is moved from the first intermediate position B1 ( Figure 4A -C) moves to the end position C( Figure 3 ), the adjusting element 9 can move together with the first displaceable engaging element 8a. The adjusting element 9 is also provided with a second bearing surface 9b, which in the example shown is substantially opposite to the first bearing surface 9a. The second engaging surface 8d of the second displaceable engaging element 8b can be hooked onto the second bearing surface 9b. In this way, when the transmission element 11 coupled to the second displaceable engaging element 8b is moved from the second intermediate position B2 ( Figure 4C -A) Move to the starting position A( Figure 2 ), the adjusting element 9 can move together with the second displaceable engaging element 8b.

[0054] exist Figure 2-7 It can be seen in FIG. 8 that the adjustment element 9 is substantially rigidly connected to the cover 6, so that when the adjustment element 9 is moved by the first displaceable engagement element 8a or when the adjustment element 9 is moved by the second displaceable engagement element 8b ( Figure 4A -C), the cover 6 moves directly with the adjusting element 9. In this example, the adjusting element 9 is mounted in the housing so that it can be tilted about a tilt axis 12. Both the cover 6 and the adjusting element 9 are rigidly mounted on the same tilt pivot 12. The adjusting element 9 can be moved at least when the cover 6 is in the release position II ( Figure 4A ) in the starting position and the cover is in the covering position I ( Figure 4C ). The tilting axis 12 extends substantially transversely to the directions D1, D2, in which the first displaceable engagement element 8a coupled to the second side of the transfer element 11, in particular the second end 11b, can move between the starting position A and the end position C, or the second displaceable engagement element 8b can move between the end position C and the starting position A. In this way, a compact and / or simple construction can be obtained elegantly. Optionally, the adjustment element 9 can be connected to the cover 6 via a transmission, such as a gear transmission.

[0055] The tilting axis 12 extends substantially transversely to the direction of the axis A3 about which the housing 3 can be pivoted relative to the base 2. In this way, a relatively flat configuration can be obtained.

[0056] The adjustment device 7, in particular the adjustment element 9, is provided with a first stop surface 13a coupled to the cover 6. The first stop surface 13a is configured to cooperate with a first blocking element 14a, which is arranged on the second side of the transfer element 11, in particular at or near the second end 11b. Furthermore, the external vision unit 1 is configured such that when the first displaceable engagement element 8a is disengaged from the engagement with the adjustment element 9 and the first displaceable engagement element 8a can no longer move the adjustment element 9 further, the first blocking element 14a abuts against the first stop surface 13a ( Figure 3 ). In this way, the first blocking element 14a can prevent the adjustment element 9 from moving backwards. This makes it possible in particular to prevent the adjustment element 9 and the cover 6 connected thereto from accidentally moving so as to cause the cover 6 to be adjusted from its covering position I to its releasing position II. Thus, for example, access to the camera unit can be prevented in a relatively simple manner to prevent vandalism.

[0057] In a similar manner, the adjustment device 7, in particular the adjustment element 9, is provided with a second stop surface 13b coupled to the cover 6. The second stop surface 13b is configured to cooperate with a second blocking element 14b, which is arranged on a second side of the transfer element 11, in particular at or near the second end 11b. Furthermore, the external vision unit 1 is configured such that when the second displaceable engagement element 8b is disengaged from the engagement with the adjustment element 9 and the second displaceable engagement element 8b can no longer move the adjustment element 9 further, the second blocking element 14b abuts against the second stop surface 13b ( Figure 2 ). In this way, the second blocking element 14b can prevent the adjustment element 9 from moving backwards. This makes it possible in particular to prevent an unintentional movement of the adjustment element 9 and the cover 6 connected thereto, which would result in the cover 6 being adjusted from its release position II to its covering position I. It can thus be prevented in a simple manner that, when the engagement element 8 is no longer engaged with the adjustment element 9, the cover is accidentally adjusted towards its covering position, so that the lens 5 of the camera unit 4 is partially or even completely covered. This is particularly important during driving, for example to counteract any vibrations generated during driving or any uneven road surface that could lead to an unwanted adjustment of the cover 6.

[0058] Preferably, the external vision unit 1 is configured such that, when the transfer element 11 moves further, after the transfer element 11 is displaced from the first intermediate position B1 to the end position C, the first blocking element 14a advances along the first stop surface 13a, so that the first blocking element 14a continues to prevent a possible backward movement of the adjustment element 9 at least over a first part of this advancement ( Figure 3In other words, when the first blocking element 14a continues to abut against the first stop surface 13a, the first blocking element 14a can move along the first stop surface 13a.

[0059] In a similar manner, preferably, the external vision unit 1 can be configured such that when the transfer element 11 moves further, after the transfer element 11 is displaced from the second intermediate position B2 to the starting position A, the second blocking element 14b advances along the second stop surface 13b, so that the second blocking element 14b continues to prevent a possible backward movement of the adjustment element 9 at least over a first part of this advancement ( Figure 2 ).

[0060] In this example, each stop surface 13a, 13b is elongated and is approximately located in the direction D1, D2, respectively. When the adjustment element 9 is located in the position when the cover 6 is in its covering position or its release position, the directions D1, D2 can extend approximately in the direction in which the transfer element 11 can move. Here, each blocking element 14a, 14b has a circular, particularly cylindrical contact surface, through which the blocking element 14a, 14b contacts the corresponding stop surface 13a, 13b during the blocking of the adjustment element 9. In this way, when the first end of the transfer element 11 is still performing a part of its stroke and the cover 6 has been set in its release position or its covering position, each blocking element 14a, 14b can slide along the corresponding stop surface 13a, 13b relatively simply and with less friction. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that this can also be achieved in different ways, for example using a small wheel. Optionally, each blocking element 14a, 14b can be triangular, prismatic or have any other suitable shape. This can also be reversed. That is, the blocking elements 14a, 14b coupled to and moving together with the transfer element 11 comprise an elongated blocking surface, and each stop surface 13a, 13b comprises a, for example, cylindrical stop surface along which the elongated blocking surface can be advanced.

[0061] In this example, the first blocking element 14a and the second blocking element 14b are integrated in an integrated or so-called combined blocking element 14. The first blocking element 14a is further integrated in the second joining element 8b, and the second blocking element 14b is integrated in the first joining element 8a. In addition, the joining elements 8a, 8b and therefore also the blocking elements 14a, 14b are integrated with each other in the joining element 8. As mentioned above, and can be Figure 7 It can be seen in FIG that the integrated engagement element 8 is realized as a rod, ie a relatively thin small rod. Figure 2-6In the partial cross section of FIG. 8 , it can be seen that the integrated engagement element 8 comprises a circular cross section, but triangular, square or other shapes are also possible. The circular cross section can advantageously reduce the friction generated during the advancement of the integrated engagement element 8 along the respective stop surfaces 13a, 13b, while retaining the blocking effect. In addition, by using such an engagement element 8, space can be provided for the tilting of the adjustment element 9, in particular for the tilting of the elongated stop surfaces 13a, 13b. For example, in Figure 3 , in which the stop surface 13 b has a space inclined behind the engagement element 8 .

[0062] As mentioned above, in this example, the external vision unit 1 is also provided with corresponding stoppers 15, 16 to prevent the adjustment element 9 from moving when the adjustment element 9 is respectively engaged with the first displaceable engagement element 8a (for example, when the adjustment element 9 moves from Figure 4C Move to the position shown Figure 3 ) and the second displaceable engagement element 8b (for example, when the adjustment element 9 is moved from Figure 4A Move to the position shown Figure 2 The tilting of the adjustment element 9 can then be blocked in two directions, i.e. on one side by the first stop 15 and on the other side by the first blocking element 14a abutting against the first stop surface 13a ( Figure 3 ). Similarly, in Figure 2 In the embodiment, the tilting of the adjusting element 9 can be prevented in two directions, namely on one side by the second stopper 16 and on the other side by the second blocking element 14b abutting against the second stop surface 13b. Therefore, the adjusting element 9 can be substantially restricted and accidental adjustment of the cover 6 between its covering position I and the release position II or between its release position II and its covering position I can be prevented. In addition, when the adjusting element 9 is driven by the corresponding engaging elements 8a, 8b in a specific direction D1, D2, the other of the engaging elements 8b, 8a together with the corresponding bearing surfaces 9b, 9a prevents accidental movement of the cover 6 in the direction D2, D1 opposite to the direction D1, D2 in which the cover 6 is pushed by the corresponding engaging elements 8a, 8b due to, for example, vibrations. Therefore, for example, Figure 4B As can be seen in FIG. 8 , the integrated engagement element 8 can be substantially confined.

[0063] Figure 5A partially cutaway top view of a drive device of the external vision unit 1 is also shown. The drive device 10 is also used to pivot the housing 3 at least between a parking position and an operating position. In particular, the drive device 10 comprises an actuator 10a, such as an electric motor, which is used both to pivot the housing 3 and to adjust the cover 6. The aforementioned variant of the drive device 10, in which the output element 10c is realized by an output gear or a spindle, for example, by a rotation-translation converter on a transmission 10b, is used to perform a linear movement of a transfer element 11 coupled to the drive device 10, in particular the output element 10c, in the external vision unit 1, in order to adjust the engagement element 8 coupled on the second side, in particular at or near the second end 11b, or to adjust the respective engagement elements 8a, 8b. In this way, the drive device 10 can be elegantly arranged at a distance from the integrated engagement element 8. In this example, the transfer element 11 is realized as a flexible cable, in particular a plastic cable. When such a cable is applied, the external vision unit 1 may, for example, further be provided with a cable guide (not shown) and / or one or more other guide devices to prevent the cable from being entangled in the housing 3 and / or in components or devices contained in the housing 3, such as a flash module. For example, the flexible cable may be implemented by a Bowden cable familiar to the skilled person, into which the cable guide may be integrated. In addition, for example, the transmission element 11 may also be implemented as a relatively rigid drive rod or drive rod mechanism, or as a combined gear-rack assembly, instead of a flexible cable.

[0064] like Figure 5 As shown, at least during a portion of the pivoting process of the housing 3, the transfer element 11 is driven so that its second end 11b moves. That is, the engagement elements 8a, 8b located on the second side of the transfer element 11, in particular, located at or near the second end 11b, are connected to the adjustment element 9 connected to the cover 6 only during a portion of the pivoting process, so that the cover 6 is adjusted between its covering position I and its release position II, or vice versa, between its release position II and its covering position I, only during a portion of the pivoting process of the housing 3 between its parking position and its working position, or vice versa. Figure 5 The part of the drive device 10 connected to the transmission element 11, such as the output element 10c, can be adjusted correspondingly, for example, for the purpose of pivoting the housing 3 between its parking position and its working position. Figure 5 The transmission element 11 coupled to the drive device 10 is given an adjustment distance a corresponding to the adjustment angle β1. tot . Then connected to the second side of the transmission element 11, in particular the engagement element 8 at or near the second end 11b, the housing is adjusted at a distance a totAs mentioned above, only when the engagement element 8 is engaged with the adjustment element 9, the engagement element 8 or its corresponding engagement element 8a, 8b can move the adjustment element 9. In this way, the adjustment element 9 can only move when the adjustment distance a is adjusted. min On the exercise together, where a min Less than a tot In this way, at least during a portion of the pivoting of the housing 3 (adjustment angle β1 and adjustment distance a tot ), the drive device 10 can adjust the cover 6 between the covering position I and the release position II or between the release position II and the covering position I through an adjustment angle α, wherein the adjustment angle α corresponds to the adjustment distance a traveled by the corresponding engagement element 8a, 8b temporarily coupled to the adjustment element 9 min In this way, the external vision unit 1 can advantageously be provided with a feature known as free movement or free travel, which corresponds to the distance a free =1 / 2(a tot -a min ). That is to say, the transmission element 11 is in free motion a free During the movement, the first displaceable engagement element 8a can be moved from the starting position A to the first intermediate position B1, in which the first displaceable engagement element 8a is not yet engaged with the adjustment element 9 in such a way that the first displaceable engagement element 8a can cause the adjustment element 9 to move, and similarly, the transmission element 11 is in the free movement a free During the free movement, at least one of the blocking elements 14a, 14b can be moved from the end position C to the second intermediate position B2, in which the second displaceable engagement element 8b is not yet engaged with the adjusting element 9 in such a way that the second displaceable engagement element 8b can cause the adjusting element to move. Furthermore, the blocking elements 14a, 14b can be moved during the free movement while they continue to substantially abut against the respective (elongated) stop surfaces 13a, 13b of the adjusting element 9. In this way, during the free movement a free During the process, the adjusting element 9 is not adjusted, while the blocking effect is retained.

[0065] In this example, the housing 3 can also be pivoted to an over-folded position beyond the working position. Figure 6 A partially cut-away, partially sectional view of a portion of the external vision unit 1 is shown, wherein the external vision unit 1 is in an overfolded position. The external vision unit 1 is configured such that when the housing 3 is pivoted from its operating position or from its parking position into its overfolded position, the second side of the transfer element 11, in particular the second end 11b, is displaced far enough that the second blocking element 14b no longer abuts against the second stop surface 13b. By limiting the size of the second stop surface 13b, the disadvantage of a relatively large, in particular relatively high, configuration of the external vision unit 1 can be counteracted. However, for example from Figure 4CIt follows that, in embodiments, the second stop surface 13b may also be of relatively long design without immediately having a negative impact on the size of the external vision unit 1. Such a relatively long second stop surface 13b may even be advantageous, for example, thereby making it possible to omit a switchable blocking device 18 to be discussed below, while still allowing the cover 6 to be kept blocked in its release position when the housing 3 is pivoted from its operating position to its overfolded position.

[0066] exist Figure 5 In the process, the adjustment angle from the release position to the over-folded position is adjusted by the adjustment angle β 2 Schematically, the total adjustment distance that the transfer element 11 can travel when the housing 3 is moved from its parking position to its extreme overfolded position is represented by the adjustment distance b tot To indicate schematically.

[0067] Figure 7 A second partially cutaway partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the external vision unit 1 is shown, wherein the external vision unit 1 is in a state of the overfolded position. The adjustment device 7 is further provided with a switchable blocking device 18 positioned along the adjustment path V of the transfer element 11, which can be switched between a blocking state III, in which the blocking device 18 eliminates the possibility of the cover 6 moving to its covering position I, and a release state, in which the blocking device 18 no longer blocks the cover 6. Figure 7 . The external vision unit 1 is configured such that a first switching operating element 17a, preferably attached to the transfer element 11 on the second side, in particular at or near the second end 11b, brings the switchable blocking device 18 into its blocking state III when the second side, in particular the second end 11b, of the transfer element 11 is displaced far enough that the second blocking element 14b no longer abuts against the second stop surface 13b when the housing is pivoted towards the overfolded position. In this example, the switching operating element 17a is integrated with the integrated engagement element 8. Alternatively, the switching operating element 17a may be integrated with at least one of the respective engagement elements 8a, 8b and / or with at least one of the respective blocking elements 14a, 14b.

[0068] The switchable blocking device 18 comprises a blocking surface 18a which, in the blocking state III of the blocking device 18, cooperates with a blocking stop surface 19 coupled to the cover 6, which in this example is arranged on the adjustment element 9. In particular, the blocking stop surface 19 is formed by a second stop surface 13b coupled to the cover 6, which in this example is arranged on the adjustment element 9.

[0069] In this example, the switchable blocking device 18 comprises a pivotable tilting arm 18b. The pivotable tilting arm 18b is preferably provided with a blocking surface 18a at a first end. In addition, the pivotable tilting arm 18b is preferably provided with a first bearing surface 19a at an opposite second end, and the first bearing surface 19a is configured to cooperate with the first switching operating element 17a so that it can cause the pivotable tilting arm 18b to pivot, so that the switchable blocking device 18 enters its blocking state III from its release state. Preferably, the first bearing surface 19a is configured to cooperate with the first switching operating element 17 (just) before the second blocking element 14b is disengaged from the abutment with the second stop surface 13b. In addition, a second switching operating element 17b is provided in this example, and the second switching operating element 17b can cooperate with the second bearing surface 19b to bring the switchable blocking device 18 back to its release state from its blocking state III, in particular (just) after the second blocking element 14b abuts against the second blocking surface 13b again.

[0070] It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that the engagement element 8 and / or the adjustment element 9 can be realized, for example, as a magnet or a magnetized material. In the case where the engagement element 8 or the adjustment element 9 comprises a magnet or is at least partially made of a magnetized material, the other of the two elements can also, for example, comprise a ferromagnetic material or be made of a ferromagnetic material, so that the engagement element 8 and the adjustment element 9 can engage with each other. The adjustment element 9 can also be integrated with the cover 6, so that the engagement element 8 is configured to engage the adjustment element integrated with the cover in a compact manner.

[0071] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein. Therefore, the external visual unit can, for example, be provided with many other functions, such as during manual adjustment from the working position in the direction of the parking position and the direction of the over-folded position, forming a physical or audible stop that does not exist during the electric adjustment, at least during the adjustment in the parking position direction. This function is called a "double stop pawl". In addition, the mating cam can be spring-loaded in the working position, for example by a helical spring around the pivot axis, and the spring load can be removed before the housing is electrically pivoted from the working position relative to the base. This can be achieved by, for example, an internal stroke of the drive device, as a result of which the spring force is transmitted from the housing to the base. These functions of the external visual unit are known per se and are described in, for example, WO2005 / 075249, WO2012 / 047104 and WO2017 / 074193. Furthermore, it should be noted that in certain embodiments, the operating position and the extreme over-folded position may coincide, for example, to aerodynamically connect with the rest of the vehicle body, such as in a manner similar to the mirror structure of the 2000 Opel Vectra.

[0072] Such variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are understood to fall within the scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims.

[0073] Reference numerals list

[0074] 1. External Vision Unit

[0075] 2. Base

[0076] 3. Shell

[0077] 4. Camera unit

[0078] 5. Lens

[0079] 6. Cover

[0080] 7. Adjustment device

[0081] 8. Integrated engagement elements

[0082] 8a, 8b. Respective first displaceable engagement element and second displaceable engagement element

[0083] 8c, 8d. Corresponding first and second engagement surfaces

[0084] 9.Regulatory elements

[0085] 9a, 9b. Corresponding first bearing surface and second bearing surface

[0086] 10. Driving device

[0087] 10a. Actuator

[0088] 10b. Transmission system

[0089] 10c. Output element

[0090] 11. Transfer element

[0091] 11a, 11b. The first and second ends of the corresponding transmission element

[0092] 12. Tilt axis

[0093] 13a, 13b. Corresponding first stop surface and second stop surface

[0094] 14a, 14b. The first blocking element and the second blocking element respectively

[0095] 15. First stopper

[0096] 16. Second stopper

[0097] 17a, 17b. Corresponding first switching operating element and second switching operating element

[0098] 18. Blocking device

[0099] 18a. Blocking Surface

[0100] 18b. Tilt arm

[0101] 19. Block stop surface

[0102] 19a, 19b. The first bearing surface of the corresponding tilt arm and the second bearing surface of the tilt arm

[0103] I. Covering position

[0104] II. Release position

[0105] III. Blocking Position

[0106] A. Starting position

[0107] B1. First middle position

[0108] B2. Second middle position

[0109] C. End position

[0110] i. Parking position of the housing

[0111] ii. Working position of the housing

[0112] iii. Extreme over-folded position of the housing

[0113] A3. Longitudinal axis

[0114] D1. The first direction of motion of the transmission element

[0115] D2. Second direction of motion of the transfer element

[0116] a tot .Total adjustment distance of the engaging element when adjusting the cover

[0117] a min .Minimum adjustment distance of the engagement element for the integral adjustment cover

[0118] b tot .Total adjustment distance of the engagement element when the housing is adjusted between the parking position and the extreme over-folded position

[0119] α. Adjustment angle of the cover

[0120] β 1 . The first adjustment angle of the output element of the drive device

[0121] β 2 . The second adjustment angle of the output element of the drive device

Claims

1. An external vision unit for a vehicle, the external vision unit comprising: - a base for attachment to the vehicle; - a housing pivotably mounted to the base and pivotable at least between i) a parking position, ii) an operating position and iii) an extreme over-folded position; - a camera unit having a lens, said camera unit being accommodated in said housing; - an adjustable cover for temporarily covering the lens, the cover being adjustable between a covering position, in which the cover covers the lens of the camera unit, and a release position, in which the cover releases the lens of the camera unit; as well as - adjustment means for adjusting the cover between its covering position and its release position or between its release position and its covering position, It is characterized in that The regulating device comprises: - an adjustment element coupled to the cover so that the cover adjusts when the adjustment element moves; and - a first displaceable engagement element configured to temporarily engage with the adjustment element coupled to the cover.

2. An external vision unit according to claim 1, wherein the external vision unit is configured so that, when the first displaceable engagement element moves while being temporarily engaged with the adjustment element, the adjustment element connected to the cover moves together with the first displaceable engagement element, so that the cover is adjusted between its covering position and its release position or between its release position and its covering position.

3. An external vision unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the adjustment means comprises drive means for moving the first displaceable engagement element, wherein the drive means is located at a distance from the first displaceable engagement element.

4. An external vision unit according to claim 3, wherein the adjustment device comprises a transmission element, which is used to transmit the movement of the drive device to the first displaceable engagement element, wherein the transmission element is connected to the drive device on a first side and the first displaceable engagement element is arranged on a second side, wherein the transmission element is movable from a starting position via at least a first intermediate position of the transmission element to an end position of the transmission element, in which starting position the first displaceable engagement element is not yet engaged with the adjustment element in such a way that the first displaceable engagement element can cause the adjustment element to move, and in the first intermediate position the first displaceable engagement element is engaged with the adjustment element and causes the adjustment element to move together with the first displaceable engagement element.

5. An external vision unit according to claim 4, wherein the external vision unit is configured such that, in the end position of the transfer element, the first displaceable engagement element no longer engages with the adjustment element connected to the cover in a manner such that the first displaceable engagement element can cause the adjustment element to move.

6. An external visual unit according to claim 4, wherein the transmission element is provided with a second displaceable engagement element on its second side, the second displaceable engagement element being configured to temporarily engage with the adjusting element connected to the cover, so that when the second displaceable engagement element moves while temporarily engaging with the adjusting element, the adjusting element connected to the cover moves together with the second displaceable engagement element, so that the cover is adjusted between its release position and its covering position or between its covering position and its release position, and wherein the transmission element is movable from the end position via at least a second intermediate position to the starting position, in which the second intermediate position the second displaceable engagement element engages with the adjusting element and causes the adjusting element to move together with the second displaceable engagement element, and in the starting position the second displaceable engagement element is no longer engaged with the adjusting element in a manner that enables the second displaceable engagement element to cause the adjusting element to move.

7. External vision unit according to claim 6, wherein the external vision unit is configured such that, in the end position of the transfer element, the second displaceable engagement element is not yet engaged with the adjustment element coupled to the cover.

8. An external vision unit according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first displaceable engagement element and the second displaceable engagement element are integrated in an integrated engagement element.

9. An external vision unit according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first displaceable engagement element and the adjustment element are configured to temporarily hook onto each other, and / or wherein the second displaceable engagement element and the adjustment element are configured to temporarily hook onto each other.

10. An external vision unit according to claim 9, wherein the adjustment element is provided with a first bearing surface, and the first engaging surface of the first displaceable engaging element can be hooked on the first bearing surface, so that when the transmission element connected to the first displaceable engaging element moves from the first intermediate position to the end position, the adjustment element can move together with the first displaceable engaging element, and wherein the adjustment element is provided with a second bearing surface, and the second engaging surface of the second displaceable engaging element can be hooked on the second bearing surface, so that when the transmission element connected to the second displaceable engaging element moves from the first intermediate position to the starting position, the adjustment element can move together with the second displaceable engaging element.

11. An external vision unit according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the adjustment element is rigidly connected to the cover so that the cover moves directly with the adjustment element when the adjustment element is moved by the first displaceable engagement element or when the adjustment element is moved by the second displaceable engagement element.

12. An external vision unit according to claim 4, wherein the adjustment element is tiltably mounted in the housing about a tilting axis, and wherein the adjustment element is tiltable at least between a starting position in which the cover is in the releasing position and an end position in which the cover is in the covering position.

13. An external vision unit according to claim 12, wherein the tilting axis extends substantially transversely to a direction in which the first displaceable engagement element coupled to the second end of the transfer element is movable between the starting position and the end position or between the end position and the starting position.

14. An external vision unit according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the tilt axis extends substantially transversely to a direction of a longitudinal axis about which the housing is pivotable relative to the base.

15. An external vision unit according to claim 4, wherein the adjustment device is provided with a first stop surface connected to the cover, the first stop surface is configured to cooperate with a first blocking element arranged on the second side of the transmission element, and wherein the external vision unit is configured so that, when the transmission element is displaced from the first intermediate position to the end position, the first displaceable engagement element disengages from the engagement with the adjustment element and the first displaceable engagement element can no longer cause the adjustment element to continue to move together, the first blocking element abuts against the first stop surface, so that the first blocking element prevents possible backward movement of the adjustment element.

16. The external vision unit of claim 15, the first stop surface being provided on the adjustment element.

17. An external vision unit according to claim 6, wherein the adjustment device is provided with a second stop surface connected to the cover, the second stop surface is configured to cooperate with a second blocking element arranged on the second side of the transmission element, and wherein the external vision unit is configured so that, when the transmission element is displaced from the second intermediate position to the starting position, the second displaceable engagement element disengages from the engagement with the adjustment element and the second displaceable engagement element can no longer cause the adjustment element to continue to move together, the second blocking element abuts against the second stop surface, so that the second blocking element prevents possible backward movement of the adjustment element.

18. The external vision unit according to claim 17, the second stop surface being provided on the adjustment element.

19. The exterior vision unit of claim 4, wherein the drive means is further configured to cause the housing to pivot between i) the parking position and ii) the operating position.

20. The external vision unit of claim 19, wherein the drive means comprises an actuator for both pivoting the housing and adjusting the cover.

21. The external vision unit of claim 20, the actuator being an electric motor.

22. The external vision unit of claim 19, wherein during at least a portion of the pivoting of the housing, the transfer element is driven so that the second end of the transfer element moves, and wherein The corresponding coupling element located on the second side of the transfer element is connected to the adjustment element connected to the cover only during a part of the pivoting process, so that the cover is adjusted between its covering position and its release position or between its release position and its covering position only during a part of the pivoting process of the housing between the parking position and the working position or between the working position and the parking position.

23. The external vision unit of claim 22, wherein the housing is further pivotable to an over-folded position beyond the operating position.

24. The external vision unit of claim 17, wherein the external vision unit is configured such that when the housing is pivoted from its operating position to its overfolded position, the second end of the transfer element is displaced far enough that the second blocking element no longer abuts the second stop surface.

25. An external visual unit according to claim 24, wherein the adjustment device is also provided with a switchable blocking device positioned along the adjustment path of the transfer element, the switchable blocking device being able to switch between a blocking state and a release position, in which the switchable blocking device prevents the cover from moving to its covering position, and in the release position of the switchable blocking device, the switchable blocking device no longer blocks the cover, and wherein the external visual unit is configured such that, when the second end of the transfer element is displaced far enough that the second blocking element no longer abuts against the second stop surface when the housing is pivoted toward the over-folded position, a first switching operating element attached to the transfer element causes the switchable blocking device to enter its blocking state.

26. An external vision unit according to claim 25, wherein the switchable blocking device comprises a blocking surface, which, in the blocking state of the switchable blocking device, cooperates with a blocking stop surface connected to the cover, and the blocking stop surface can be set on the adjustment element.

27. The exterior vision unit according to claim 26, wherein the blocking stop surface is formed by the second stop surface coupled to the cover, the second stop surface being provided on the adjustment element.

28. An external vision unit according to claim 26, wherein the switchable blocking device is a pivotable tilting arm or includes a pivotable tilting arm, wherein the tilting arm is provided with the blocking surface and a first bearing surface, the first bearing surface being configured to cooperate with the first switching operating element so that the first bearing surface causes the pivotable tilting arm to pivot, thereby the switchable blocking device enters its blocking state from its released state.

29. The external vision unit of claim 28, wherein the tilt arm is provided with the blocking surface at a first end and with the first bearing surface at an opposing second end.

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