Interior rearview camera and vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an interior rearview device (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising: a rearview element comprising at least one of a reflective element (10) and a display element, wherein the rearview element has a normal state and at least one anti-glare state, in which the glare experienced by the vehicle driver due to light reflected at the rearview element is reduced; a frame (32) surrounding the rearview element and surrounded by a housing (60); a control device comprising a sensor device connected to at least one printed circuit board (40, 50), the printed circuit board being arranged between the housing (60) and the rearview element for controlling at least the state of the rearview element; and a control device for controlling the rearview element. and a bracket assembly (70) configured to attach a housing (60) to a vehicle; wherein, when the device (1) is normally installed in the vehicle, the peripheral edge (31) of the frame (32) is exposed to and visible to the vehicle driver; the peripheral edge (31) includes a curved surface disposed between the front surface and / or reflective surface of the rearview element (10) and the housing (60); and the housing (60) is provided with a protrusion (65) that protrudes along the edge beyond the curved surface of the peripheral edge (31), such that the protrusion can be seen by the driver when the device (1) is normally installed in the vehicle. The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle equipped with such an interior rearview device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an interior rearview device and a vehicle having the same. Background Art

[0002] There are many different interior rearview devices with different functions available on the market. Two documents of such devices are listed below with reference to the applicant's description.

[0003] EP 3 126 935 B1 relates to a pivotable interior mirror for a vehicle, the interior mirror comprising: a pivoting device designed to move the interior mirror from a normal position into a dimming position, wherein, in the dimming position, glare for the vehicle driver caused by the interior mirror is reduced; and an operating device configured to actuate the pivoting device in response to a movement of the driver.

[0004] WO 2018 / 167096 A1 discloses a rearview device for a vehicle comprising a housing, a frame, and a rearview element. In one embodiment, the frame includes a transparent or chrome-based coating to allow one or more lighting assemblies positioned within or below the frame to illuminate the surroundings and provide different functions to the driver or other personnel. For example, different indicator functions can be provided. Various electronic devices can be placed within or below the frame to optimize the use of space within the rearview device.

[0005] Furthermore, it is known to provide an interior rearview device with a human-machine interface (HMI), in particular comprising a capacitive touch panel. EP 3 017 545 A1 of the applicant discloses a capacitive touch panel comprising: a transparent panel substrate, the front surface of which comprises a conductive translucent layer, which is visible to a user in use; at least one light source associated with the rear surface, wherein the light source is switchable between an "on" state, in which a light-emitting icon is visible on the front surface of the cover plate, and an "off" state, in which the light-emitting icon is not visible on the front surface of the cover plate, wherein the light source can be switched from the off state to the on state by a change in the capacitance of the conductive translucent layer; and at least one switch associated with the rear surface, wherein the switch can be actuated by a user pressing the touch panel near the light-emitting icon to provide an output signal capable of performing a function.

[0006] Nowadays, interior rearview cameras equipped with a dimming function generally use electrochromic reflective elements. US 2013 / 0252979 A1 discloses a special electrochromic element having an electrolyte layer that may be solid but has not yet been used in rearview cameras.

[0007] US 2012 / 0236388 A1 relates to an interior rearview mirror assembly comprising a housing and a mirror reflective element having a glass substrate. The housing includes an element that protrudes beyond the rear surface of the glass substrate and toward the front surface of the glass substrate when the reflective element is at least partially housed in the housing. The glass substrate includes an inclined rear peripheral edge portion along the outer periphery of the rear surface of the glass substrate to at least partially accommodate the elements of the housing when the reflective element is at least partially housed in the housing. The glass substrate includes a beveled front periphery along the outer periphery of the front surface of the glass substrate. The beveled front periphery of the glass substrate is exposed and visible to the vehicle driver.

[0008] WO 2012 / 051294 A1 teaches a rearview assembly having a mounting structure configured to be operably coupled to a vehicle. A housing is operably connected to the mounting structure, and a rearward viewing device is supported by one of the housing and the mounting structure. The rearward viewing device provides a rearward field of view to a vehicle driver and includes a front substrate and a rear substrate. The entire front surface of the front substrate is exposed and the entire rear substrate is positioned behind the front substrate. A shielding layer is disposed around the periphery of the rearward viewing device between the front substrate and the rear substrate. A partially optically transparent bezel is disposed adjacent to both the rearward viewing device and the housing, the optically transparent bezel having an edge radius greater than 2.5 mm, and the optically transparent bezel being substantially flush with the front surface of the front substrate.

[0009] EP 3 126 935 B1 teaches a pivotable interior mirror for a vehicle, comprising: a mirror surface, in particular in the form of a first surface of a wedge-shaped mirror; a sensor device for detecting at least one gesture of a vehicle driver and / or light incident on the first surface of the wedge-shaped mirror; and a pivoting device for pivoting the mirror surface from a normal position into at least one anti-glare position, in which anti-glare position the glare perceived by the driver due to light reflected at the mirror surface is reduced, the pivoting device being actuatable depending on at least one output signal from the sensor device, wherein the sensor device is suitable for measuring light propagation time and is part of an operator control device for the pivoting device, wherein the operator control device detects a movement pattern in a first area of ​​the interior mirror and / or provides at least one virtual button in a second area of ​​the interior mirror.

[0010] WO 2017 / 191558 A1 relates to an electro-optical rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle, comprising a housingless electro-optical rearview mirror reflective element and a plate attached to the rear of the reflective element. The mirror reflective element is connected to a windshield electronic module via a ball and socket pivot joint and pivots around the windshield electronic module. A control circuit may be provided in the windshield electronic module for automatically controlling the dimming of the electro-optical medium, or alternatively, the dimming of the electro-optical medium is automatically controlled by a multi-function rear backup camera system of an equipped vehicle. Optionally, the control circuit controls the dimming of the electro-optical medium of the mirror reflective element by wiring passing through the ball and socket pivot joint. Optionally, image data captured by the multi-function rear backup camera may be used for ambient light determination and may be used to provide a video image display at the interior rearview mirror assembly.

[0011] US 2015 / 0334354 A1 relates to a sun visor assembly for a vehicle, comprising a sun visor element configured to be pivotally attached to an interior portion of the vehicle for pivoting between a non-use position, in which the sun visor is positioned along the vehicle's roof, and an in-use position, in which the sun visor element is positioned at least partially along the vehicle's windshield. A vanity mirror reflective element comprises a glass mirror substrate and a mirror reflective coating. The vanity mirror reflective element is disposed on the sun visor element so as to be visible to the vehicle driver when the sun visor element is pivoted to the in-use position. The mirror substrate has a rounded peripheral edge that is exposed on the sun visor element and visible to the vehicle driver when the sun visor element is pivotally attached to the interior portion of the vehicle and in the in-use position.

[0012] Although a large number of interior rearview mirrors are known, there is still a need to enhance their functionality and design. An object of the present disclosure is to provide an optically appealing interior rearview device which preferably allows special light effects and an easily actuated human-machine interface. Summary of the Invention

[0013] This object is achieved by an interior rearview device for a motor vehicle according to claim 1, comprising: a rearview element including at least one of a reflective element and a display element; a frame surrounding the rearview element and surrounded by a housing; and a bracket assembly configured to attach the housing to the vehicle. When the device is normally installed in the vehicle, the outer peripheral edge of the frame is exposed to and visible to the vehicle driver; the outer peripheral edge includes a curved surface disposed between a front surface and / or a reflective surface of the rearview element and the housing; and the housing includes a protrusion extending along the edge beyond the curved surface of the outer peripheral edge, such that the protrusion is visible to the driver when the device is normally installed in the vehicle. The protrusion may include a step having a height between 0.1 mm and 2.1 mm, and / or the curvature of the curved surface may have a radius of at least 2.5 mm. The curved surface of the outer peripheral edge of the frame ensures safety by avoiding any edges that could cause injury to the driver or other occupants of the vehicle.

[0014] According to the present disclosure, preferably, the internal rearview device also includes at least one or more lamp assemblies, which are preferably at least partially positioned within the internal space of the frame and / or emit light into the frame acting as a light guide to illuminate at least one area between the shell and the rearview element and / or provide an actuating device.

[0015] In this regard, preferably, the one or more lamp assemblies are configured to direct light of multiple different colors to the entire surface of the border, so that the entire border can have one color at a time, and / or the one or more lamp assemblies are configured to provide light of multiple different colors to different areas of the border, so that different areas of the border can have different colors at the same time, and / or the one or more lamp assemblies are configured to direct light of selected brightness and / or color to at least one selected area or the entire surface of the border.

[0016] Further, according to the present disclosure, it is suggested that the frame is made of a plastic substrate, which is at least one of colored, surface-processed, transparent and coated; and / or the frame is coated and the coating of the frame is at least one of a decorative coating, an advanced surface technology surface coating and a spectral control system; and / or the frame is formed or molded from a polymer substrate.

[0017] Further advantages are provided when the bezel exhibits reflective characteristics, wherein the bezel is transparent and includes a chromium-based coating, in particular to hide the one or more lamp assemblies beneath the bezel until they are illuminated, wherein preferably the chromium-based coating is an alloy of chromium and a dopant material selected from hexagonal close-packed transition metals, the alloy having a crystal structure in which a main-centered cubic phase coexists with a secondary ω hexagonal close-packed phase.

[0018] Preferably, the peripheral edge and / or the curved surface is provided with a chrome-based coating, and / or the peripheral edge and / or the curved surface is provided with at least one sensor of a sensor device and / or at least one actuating element - in particular including markings, icons and / or cutouts providing virtual buttons.

[0019] According to an embodiment, at least one printed circuit board may be provided, which is arranged between the housing and the rearview element, and / or a control device may be provided, which is connected to the one or more lamp assemblies and / or includes a sensor device connected to the at least one printed circuit board.

[0020] A very simple construction according to the invention is characterized in that the frame is provided by the housing cover, and the at least one printed circuit board, the sensor arrangement and / or the one or more lamp assemblies are at least partially positioned between the housing cover and the housing, wherein the housing cover preferably comprises a support portion for the reflective element, the support portion being provided with at least one opening, in particular for accessing the printed circuit arrangement and / or at least one window, in particular for allowing illumination to pass to a sensor of the sensor arrangement.

[0021] For the present disclosure, it is recommended that the sensor device comprises: at least one first sensor, which is in the form of a TOF (Time of Flight) sensor, in particular comprising a TOF camera; and / or at least one second sensor for performing an ALS (Ambient Light Sensor) function; and / or at least one third sensor, which is in the form of a photoelectric sensor, in particular illuminated by an additional light source arranged in the vehicle; and / or at least one fourth sensor, which is in the form of a touch sensor, preferably providing a virtual button.

[0022] In this regard, it is preferred that the first sensor, the first second sensor, the first third sensor and / or the first fourth sensor are mounted on one side of a reflective surface having a rear-view element on the device, in particular on the reflective surface, or behind the reflective surface, preferably with a window for transmitting illumination; and / or the second second sensor is mounted on the side of the device opposite to the reflective surface or behind the reflective surface, preferably with a window for transmitting illumination; and / or the second third sensor and / or the second fourth sensor are mounted on or in the frame; and / or the third third sensor and / or the third fourth sensor are mounted on or in the housing.

[0023] Furthermore, the present disclosure proposes that the interior rearview device includes at least one actuator device mounted on the frame, on or in the shell and / or on the reflective surface, which preferably includes one or more buttons, in particular virtual buttons, preferably includes a touch sensor connected to the control device and / or is monitored by a camera.

[0024] It is also suggested that the control device is suitable for detecting a motion pattern within a first interval relative to the reflective surface and / or providing at least one virtual button within a second interval, wherein the first interval is preferably set in a first area of ​​the control device and the second interval is set in a second area of ​​the control device, in particular the second interval is set closer to the reflective surface than the first interval.

[0025] It is further proposed for the present disclosure that the control device is designed to be connected to a control unit of the vehicle, in particular taking the state of the vehicle and / or the vehicle's surroundings into account when controlling the device.

[0026] It may also be the case that the rearview element has a normal state and at least one anti-glare state, in which the glare felt by the vehicle driver due to light reflected at the rearview element is reduced, wherein the reflective element in particular comprises an electrochromic element, which is preferably controlled by the control device.

[0027] A preferred embodiment of the interior rearview device disclosed herein is characterized in that a printed circuit board is fixed to the housing, preferably in the form of an electrochromic printed circuit board, and / or a sensor and / or actuator printed circuit board.

[0028] It is also proposed that the printed circuit board be shaped, bent and / or arranged with at least one cutout to avoid interference with the connection means of the bracket assembly.

[0029] The present invention also provides a vehicle equipped with the interior rearview device disclosed herein.

[0030] Such a vehicle may comprise at least one camera and / or light source to detect actuation of the actuating device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The foregoing summary and the following detailed description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For illustrative purposes, certain embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate schematically embodiments of devices consistent with the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the advantages and principles consistent with the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 1a It is a front view of the interior rearview device of the first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 1b for Figure 1a Exploded view of the interior rearview camera;

[0034] Figure 2 An exploded view of an interior rearview device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 3a A front view of a housing carrying a printed circuit board;

[0036] Figure 3b An exploded view of a housing carrying an alternative printed circuit board and a housing cover;

[0037] Figure 3c An exploded view of a housing carrying a printed circuit board, a housing cover, and a reflective element of an interior rearview device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 4a is a cross-sectional view of an interior rearview device according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 4b for Figure 4a A partial enlarged view of

[0040] Figure 4c An alternative to the internal rearview device of the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 4b A partial enlarged view of

[0041] Figure 5 It is a partial perspective view of an interior rearview device according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 6 a) to f) illustrate a human-machine interface (HMI) provided by the interior rearview device of the seventh embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0043] Figure 7 A side view and a partially sectional view illustrating an example of a coupling state between a housing and a housing cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Before explaining the examples of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the application of the present disclosure is not limited to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The drawings and written description are provided to teach those skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure for which patent protection is sought. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced and implemented in various ways. Those skilled in the art will understand that for the sake of clarity and understanding, not all features of a commercial embodiment are shown. Those skilled in the art will also understand that the development of an actual commercial embodiment incorporating various aspects of the present disclosure will require many implementation-specific decisions to achieve the ultimate goal of the developer's commercial embodiment. Although these efforts may be complex and time-consuming, they will be routine work for those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure.

[0045] Furthermore, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting. For example, the use of singular terms such as "one" is not intended to limit the quantity of items. Relative terms such as, but not limited to, "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "downward," "upward," "side," and "corner" are also used in the description for clarity with certain reference to the accompanying drawings, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure or the appended claims. Furthermore, it should be understood that any of the features of the present invention may be used alone or in combination with other features. Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will be or become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages be included in this description, be within the scope of the present disclosure, and be protected by the appended claims.

[0046] Figure 1a and Figure 1b An interior rearview device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The rearview device 1 is a multifunctional rearview device having a reflective element, such as an electrochromic (EC) glass 11. The electrochromic glass 10 is attached to a double-sided adhesive tape 10 for attachment to a housing cover 30. This double-sided adhesive tape 10 is in turn mounted to a housing 60, with an electrochromic printed circuit board 40 and a button printed circuit board 50 positioned between the housing cover 30 and the housing 60. A button 80 is attached to the housing 60, and a mounting device 90 is provided for this purpose. The corresponding mounting is described in more detail below. The housing 60 is mounted to a bracket assembly 70 via its bolts 72, allowing it to be attached to a vehicle (not shown), such as a vehicle's windshield, and to move relative thereto.

[0047] For example, a sensor 100 in the form of a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor is attached to the upper region of the electrochromic glazing 10, on its reflective surface. The sensor 100 is suitable for controlling the dimming of the electrochromic glazing 10 and is therefore connected to the printed circuit board 40. For the purpose of connecting not only the sensor 100 but also the electrodes of the reflective element 10, the housing cover 30 is provided with an opening 34.

[0048] When the electrochromic glass 10 is accommodated in the housing cover 30 and its frame 32 surrounds the periphery of the reflective element 10 , the housing cover 30 is in turn accommodated in the housing 60 , wherein the housing 60 surrounds the periphery of the housing cover 30 , as will be explained in more detail below.

[0049] In order to Figure 1aIn the front view shown, to create a frameless impression of the interior rearview mirror 1, at least the frame 32 of the housing cover 30 can be covered with a reflective coating, in particular a chrome-based coating such as described in WO 2018 / 167096 A1. Furthermore, the housing 60 can also be at least partially provided with such a coating. However, it should be noted, as will be described later, that the front view of the rearview device 1 provides a direct view not only of the electrochromic glass 10, but also of the frame 32 and the housing 60 surrounding it.

[0050] Figure 2 The main components of the alternative interior rearview device 1 of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 1a and 1b The device shown in is different in that the sensor 100 is arranged behind the electrochromic glass 10 allowing the transmission of radiation, which can be achieved either by selecting a correspondingly reduced reflectivity of the electrochromic glass 10 itself or by providing a window 12 in the reflective layer of the electrochromic glass 10 in the region of the sensor 100.

[0051] Figure 2 Also shown is an electrochromic printed circuit board 40 secured to the housing 60. Figure 3a , according to which the printed circuit board 40 is provided with two screw holes 42 and is connected to the housing 60 by a plurality of hooks 64 of the housing 60. In addition, the housing 60 is provided with support ribs 62 for supporting the printed circuit board 40.

[0052] In addition, the printed circuit board 50 is also fixed to the housing 60 and connected to the button 80 of the human-machine interface.

[0053] Figure 3b Housing 60 is shown with an alternative electrochromic circuit board 40 provided with cutouts 44 to avoid any interference with bolts 72 of bracket assembly 70 by which housing 60 is mounted to the vehicle.

[0054] Figure 3b Further details of the housing cover 30 are also shown, which is provided with not only a frame 32 and a support portion 33 for the electrochromic glass 10 and an opening 34, but also a through hole 36 leading to additional or alternative sensors discussed below, as well as screw holes 38 and attachment means 39 to facilitate assembly.

[0055] Figure 3c Shown in exploded view Figure 3b embodiment together with the electrochromic glass 10.

[0056] Figure 4aFurther features are shown, particularly those of the housing cover 30. Before turning to these features, it can be seen again in this figure that the electrochromic printed circuit board 40 overlaps the opening 34 provided in the support portion 33 of the housing cover 30. The frame 32 of the housing cover 30, which surrounds the electrochromic glass 10, is provided with a rounded edge 31 at its periphery between the front of the electrochromic glass 10 and the housing 60 to prevent injury. Accordingly, the peripheral edge 31 comprises a curved surface disposed between the electrochromic glass 10 and the housing 60, with a radius of curvature r preferably being 2.8 mm.

[0057] As in Figure 4b As best seen in the figure, housing cover 30 is form-fitted to housing 60 by being provided with a step 37 that mates with step 61 of housing 60. Housing 60 is also provided with a protrusion 65 that extends laterally beyond housing cover 30, so that frame 32 and protrusion 65 are visible in a front view of the interior rearview device. Protrusion 65 also includes a step having a height h of, for example, 1 mm. This structure allows for a variety of functions, as described below.

[0058] Figure 4c One of these functions is shown, in which the light assembly 300 is arranged to emit light into the bezel 32, which serves as a light guide 400. For this purpose, a light-receiving surface 410 having an additional lens function is provided by the light guide 400, and the light guide 400 guides the light from the light assembly 300 to a light-emitting surface 420 in the region of the rounded edge 31 between the electrochromic glazing 10 and the housing 60. This arrangement allows, for example, a variety of different optical effects with light of different intensities and / or colors to be provided between the reflective element 10 and the housing 60.

[0059] Both the intensity and the color of the light may provide information to the driver, or simply be used to enhance the aesthetics of the interior rearview device 1 .

[0060] In addition to the above optical effects, Figure 4c The structure shown in FIG4 also allows for a very simple human-machine interface by providing the light emitting surface 410 with, for example, a laser-cut virtual button 430, thereby providing an actuation device. For example, when a finger touches the virtual button 430 or even simply approaches the button, light will be reflected back into the light guide 400 and, if the light assembly 300 is also provided with a sensor device, this light can be detected to detect actuation.

[0061] There may be different human-machine interfaces associated with the multifunctional rearview device 1 of the present disclosure. Figure 5 Another possibility for buttons 80 , 82 , and 84 to extend beyond bezel 32 is shown.

[0062] Below about Figure 6An example of a human-machine interface of the multifunctional rearview device 1 of the present disclosure is described. Figure 6 As shown in a), three sensors 102, 104 and 106 are arranged on the reflective surface of the electrochromic glass 10. The first sensor 102 may be in the form of a TOF sensor, and the second sensor 104 may be in the form of a TOF sensor. Figure 4c The touch sensor described above is in the form of a touch sensor, and the third sensor 106 may be a photoelectric sensor.

[0063] Figure 6 b) and Figure 6 c) illustrates the functionality of the photosensor 106. For example, such a sensor may be provided as a photocoupler that transmits and receives light, such that as long as no light is detected, the Figure 6 b), i.e., it is detected that it is not actuated. However, once, for example, the driver's hand 200 approaches the sensor 106, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown in c), when the finger blocks the light and reflects the light, reflection occurs. In this case, the driver's actuation intention is detected and, for example, the dimming of the electrochromic glass 10 is changed thereby.

[0064] In order to better detect the posture of the hand 200 in front of the interior rearview device 1 of the present disclosure, in addition to the sensor 102, the camera 120 can also be used, such as Figure 6 d).

[0065] Instead of arranging the sensor on the electrochromic glass 10, another sensor 108 may be arranged below the bottom of the housing 60, such as Figure 6 The corresponding sensor 108 may be a photoelectric sensor and has the same function as the sensor 106 that detects actuation when a finger of the hand 200 approaches, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 f).

[0066] Thus, through the present disclosure, because the sensor must not only be placed on the reflective element, but also due to the fact that the frame 32 surrounds the periphery of the reflective element 10 and the housing 60 surrounds the periphery of the frame 32 (as described above in particular with respect to Figure 4b As explained), the sensor can also be placed on the frame or housing, so there can be a large number of different actuation devices or better alternative human-machine interfaces.

[0067] like Figure 7 As shown, the housing 60' according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is formed to be larger than the housing cover 30', wherein the outer perimeter of the housing 60' is formed to be larger than the outer perimeter of the housing cover 30'. For example, a predetermined protrusion or step 65' may be present between the housing 60' and the housing cover 30'. The outer perimeter surface extending from the housing 60' toward the housing cover 30' may form a naturally curved surface. As a result, at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the housing 60' is exposed to the driver.

[0068] The various embodiments of the interior rearview device 1 disclosed above illustrate not only its versatility, including lighting functions for decorative and / or informational purposes, dimming functions, human-machine interface functions, etc., but also illustrate the design diversity that provides particularly pleasing aesthetics combined with implemented safety features.

[0069] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure is not limited in its use to the specific applications described. The present disclosure is also not limited to the specific elements and / or features described or depicted herein in its preferred embodiments. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiment or embodiments, but is capable of various rearrangements, modifications, and substitutions without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth and defined by the appended claims.

[0070] Throughout the specification and claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words "comprise" and "include" and variations such as "comprising" and "including", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0071] Reference numerals

[0072] 1 Multi-function rearview camera

[0073] 10 Electrochromic glass

[0074] 12 Window

[0075] 20 double-sided tape

[0076] 30, 30' shell cover

[0077] 31 round edges

[0078] 32 borders

[0079] 33 Support part

[0080] 34 Opening

[0081] 35 Window

[0082] 36 through holes

[0083] 37 steps

[0084] 38 threaded holes

[0085] 39 Attachment

[0086] 40 Electrochromic Printed Circuit Board

[0087] 42 threaded holes

[0088] 44 Resection

[0089] 50-button printed circuit board

[0090] 60, 60' shell

[0091] 61 steps

[0092] 62 support ribs

[0093] 64 hook

[0094] 65, 65' protrusion

[0095] 70 bracket assembly

[0096] 72 bolts

[0097] 80–84 buttons

[0098] 100 sensors

[0099] 101 sensor area

[0100] 102 sensors

[0101] 103 Covering

[0102] 104–108 Sensors

[0103] 110 sensors

[0104] 120 cameras

[0105] 200 lots

[0106] 300 Light assembly with sensor device

[0107] 400 Light Guide

[0108] 410 light-receiving surface

[0109] 420 Luminous Surface

[0110] 430 Laser-cut virtual button

Claims

1. An interior rearview device (1) suitable for use in a motor vehicle, the interior rearview device comprising: a rear view element comprising at least one of a reflective element and a display element; a frame (32) surrounding the entire periphery of the rearview element and surrounded by the housing (60, 60'); and a bracket assembly (70) configured to attach the housing (60, 60') to the vehicle; wherein When the interior rearview device (1) is normally installed in the vehicle, the peripheral edge (31) of the frame (32) is exposed to the driver of the vehicle and can be seen by the driver of the vehicle; The peripheral edge (31) comprises a curved surface disposed between the front surface and / or the reflective surface of the rearview element (10) and the housing (60, 60'); and The housing (60, 60') is provided with a protrusion (65, 65'), the protrusion (65, 65') protruding along the edge beyond the curved surface of the peripheral edge (31) so that the protrusion can be seen by the driver when the interior rearview device (1) is normally installed in the vehicle.

2. The internal rearview device according to claim 1, wherein: The protrusions (65, 65') provide a step with a height between 0.1 mm and 2.1 mm, and / or the radius of curvature of the curved surface is at least 2.5 mm.

3. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: At least one or more light assemblies (300).

4. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 3, wherein: The one or more light assemblies are configured to direct light of multiple different colors across the entire surface of the bezel (32) so that the entire bezel (32) can have one color at a time, and / or The one or more light assemblies are configured to provide a plurality of different colors of light to different areas of the bezel (32), such that different areas of the bezel (32) can have different colors at one time, and / or The one or more light assemblies are configured to direct light having a selected brightness and / or color to at least one selected area or the entire surface of the bezel (32).

5. The internal rearview device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The frame (32) is made of a plastic substrate, and the plastic substrate is at least one of colored, surface-processed, transparent, and coated; and / or The frame (32) is coated, and the coating of the frame (32) is at least one of a decorative coating, an advanced surface technology (AST) surface coating, and a spectrum control system; and / or The frame (32) is formed or molded from a polymer substrate.

6. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 5, wherein: The bezel (32) is transparent and comprises a chrome-based coating.

7. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 5, wherein: The peripheral edge (31) and / or the curved surface are provided with a chromium-based coating, and / or The peripheral edge (31) and / or the curved surface is provided with at least one sensor of a sensor device and / or at least one element of an actuating device.

8. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: at least one printed circuit board (40, 50), said at least one printed circuit board being arranged between said housing (60, 60') and said rear view element, and / or A control device is connected to one or more lamp assemblies and / or includes a sensor device connected to the at least one printed circuit board (40, 50).

9. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 3, wherein: The frame (32) is provided by the housing cover (30, 30'), and At least one printed circuit board (40, 50), a sensor device and / or one or more light assemblies are at least partially positioned between the housing cover (30, 30') and the housing (60, 60').

10. The internal rearview device according to claim 8, wherein: The sensor device comprises: at least one first sensor (100, 102) in the form of a time-of-flight sensor, and / or at least one second sensor (110) for performing an ambient light sensor function, and / or at least one third sensor (106, 108) in the form of a photoelectric sensor, and / or At least one fourth sensor (104) in the form of a touch sensor.

11. The interior rearview device according to claim 10, wherein: The first sensor (100, 102), the first second sensor, the first third sensor (106) and / or the first fourth sensor (104) are mounted on a side of the interior rearview device (1) having a reflective surface of the rearview element (10); and / or A second sensor (110) is mounted on the side of the interior rearview device (1) opposite to the reflective surface, or behind the reflective surface; and / or The second and third sensors and / or the second and fourth sensors are mounted on or in the frame (32); and / or A third sensor (108) and / or a third fourth sensor are mounted on or in the housing (60, 60').

12. The interior rearview device of claim 8, further comprising: At least one actuating device is installed on or in the frame (32), the housing (60, 60') and / or on the reflective element.

13. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 8, wherein: The control device is adapted to detect a motion pattern relative to the reflective surface during a first interval and / or to provide at least one virtual button during a second interval.

14. The interior rearview device according to claim 8, wherein: The control device is configured to be connected to a control unit of the vehicle.

15. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 8, wherein: The rearview element has a normal state and at least one anti-glare state in which a driver of the vehicle experiences reduced glare due to light reflected at the rearview element.

16. The interior rearview camera device according to claim 8, wherein: The printed circuit boards (40, 50) are fixed to the housing (60, 60').

17. The internal rearview camera device according to claim 8, wherein: The printed circuit board (40, 50) is shaped, bent and / or configured to have at least one cutout (44) to avoid interference with the connection device (72) of the bracket assembly (70).

18. An interior rearview device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one or more light assemblies (300) are at least partially positioned within the interior space of the frame and / or emit light into the frame (32) acting as a light guide (400) to illuminate at least one area between the housing (60, 60') and the rearview element (10) and / or provide an actuation device (430).

19. The interior rearview device of claim 6, wherein the bezel (32) is configured to conceal the one or more light assemblies (300) beneath the bezel (32) until illuminated.

20. The interior rearview camera according to claim 6, wherein the chromium-based coating is an alloy of chromium and a dopant material, the dopant material being selected from hexagonal close-packed transition metals, the alloy having a crystal structure in which a main-centered cubic phase and a secondary ω hexagonal close-packed phase coexist.

21. The interior rearview device according to claim 7, wherein: The at least one sensor of the sensor device and / or the at least one element of the actuation device comprises a marking, an icon and / or a cutout (430) providing a virtual button.

22. The interior rearview camera device according to claim 9, wherein: The housing cover (30, 30') comprises a support portion (33) for the reflective element.

23. The internal rearview device according to claim 22, wherein: The support portion (33) is provided with at least one opening (34) for access to the printed circuit board and / or at least one window (35) for transmitting illumination to a sensor of the sensor arrangement.

24. The internal rearview device according to claim 10, wherein: The at least one first sensor (100, 102) comprises a time-of-flight camera.

25. The internal rearview device according to claim 10, wherein: The at least one third sensor (106, 108) is illuminated by an additional light source arranged in the vehicle.

26. The internal rearview device according to claim 10, wherein: The at least one fourth sensor (104) provides a virtual button.

27. The internal rearview camera according to claim 11, wherein: The first sensor (100, 102), the first second sensor, the first third sensor (106) and / or the first fourth sensor (104) are mounted on the reflective surface or behind the reflective surface.

28. The internal rearview device according to claim 27, wherein: The interior rearview device is provided with a window (12) for transmitting illumination.

29. The internal rearview device according to claim 12, wherein: The at least one actuation device comprises one or more buttons (80-84).

30. The interior rearview device of claim 29, wherein the one or more buttons (80-84) are virtual buttons.

31. An interior rearview device according to claim 12, said at least one actuating device comprising a touch sensor and / or being monitored by a camera (120) connected to said control device.

32. The internal rearview device according to claim 14, wherein: The control device is configured to take the state of the vehicle and / or the surroundings of the vehicle into consideration when controlling the interior rearview device (1).

33. The internal rearview camera according to claim 15, wherein: The reflective element includes an electrochromic (EC) element.

34. The internal rearview device according to claim 33, wherein: The electrochromic (EC) element is controlled by the control device.

35. The internal rearview device according to claim 16, wherein: The printed circuit boards (40, 50) are in the form of electrochromic printed circuit boards (40) and / or sensor and / or actuator printed circuit boards (50).

36. The internal rearview camera according to claim 13, wherein: The first interval is provided in a first area of ​​the control device and the second interval is provided in a second area of ​​the control device.

37. The interior rearview device of claim 36, wherein the second spacer is arranged closer to the reflective surface than the first spacer.

38. A vehicle equipped with an interior rear view device according to any preceding claim.

39. The vehicle of claim 38, further comprising At least one camera (120) and / or light source to detect actuation of the actuating device.

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