External rearview devices for motor vehicles and vehicles

Abstract

This invention relates to an external rearview device for a motor vehicle and a vehicle. An external rearview device for a motor vehicle includes a housing and at least one light emitting and / or receiving device. The at least one light emitting and / or receiving device includes: at least one light generating device and / or at least one camera device disposed within the housing; and at least one at least partially transparent element that closes an opening provided by the housing. The at least partially transparent element is provided in the form of a first module attached to the housing, and the light generating device and / or camera device is provided in the form of a second module attached to the first module. The first and second modules are mechanically and releasably coupled. The housing includes a shell having at least one wall and a frame. The first module protrudes from at least one outer surface of the housing beyond an imaginary contour line connecting the outer surface of the at least one wall and the outer surface of the frame, thereby protruding beyond the overall contour of the housing.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "Rearview Device and Vehicle Having Such a Rearview Device", with an international filing date of August 7, 2018, international application number PCT / EP2018 / 071371, and national application number 201880067087.0. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to an external rearview device, particularly for motor vehicles, comprising a housing and at least one light emitting and / or receiving device, said at least one light generating device and / or at least one camera device disposed within said housing, and at least one at least partially transparent element that closes an opening provided by said housing. Such side rearview devices, externally coupled to the vehicle body, typically include reflective elements to provide rearview mirror elements and / or cameras to provide optical rearview equipment. The invention also relates to vehicles having such rearview devices. Background Technology

[0003] The term “rear view” is defined here as observation of the surrounding area that is not within the driver’s field of vision, i.e., relative to the direction of observation, in the left, right, down, and up directions, but may also include observation in the direction of the driver’s observation and / or any combination of directions.

[0004] The terms “driver” and “driver of a vehicle” refer here to a person who controls the main parameters of a vehicle (such as direction, speed and / or height), typically a person located in a position designated for the controller (e.g., a seat), but can also refer to any other person or entity inside or outside the vehicle.

[0005] Different functions and devices can be incorporated into and / or controlled by the rearview device. Functions and devices used to enhance, extend, and / or maintain the functionality of the rearview device are particularly useful during normal or extreme conditions. This can include heating and / or cooling devices, cleaning devices (such as wipers, liquid and / or gaseous sprays), actuators for moving the rearview device or parts thereof (such as displays, camera systems, and / or parts of camera systems, including, for example, lenses, filters, light sources, adaptive optics such as deformable mirrors, sensors, and / or mirrors), and / or actuators for causing movement of other objects (e.g., parts of the vehicle and / or objects around the vehicle). Furthermore, it can include linear tracks and / or rotating wheels for exchanging optical elements, such as filter wheels, including, for example, lenses, mirrors, light sources, sensors, adaptive optics such as deformable mirrors, and / or filters.

[0006] Prominent examples of functions and devices incorporated into and / or controlled by a rearview device include lighting devices, such as any type of lighting module, including exterior lighting modules, interior lighting modules, headlights, rearlights, fog lights, brake lights, accelerator lights, turn signal indicators, marker lights, puddle lights, hazard lights, navigation lights, position lights, emergency lights, spotlights, green lights, red lights, warning lights, turn signal modules, approach lights, searchlights, information lights, displays, and / or any combination thereof.

[0007] Other examples of functions and devices incorporated into and / or controlled by a rearview device may include, for example, fatigue detection systems, micro-sleep detection systems, distance and / or speed determination systems (e.g., light detection and ranging (LIDAR) systems), blind spot indicator systems, lane change assist systems, navigation assist systems, tracking assist systems, human-machine interaction systems, machine-to-machine interaction systems, emergency prevention systems (e.g., accident avoidance assist systems), countermeasure assist systems, braking assist systems, steering assist systems, acceleration assist systems, escape assist systems (including, for example, ejection seat systems), direction indicators, blind spot indicators, approach systems, high-power braking systems, emergency braking systems, charging status indicators, vehicle mode systems (including, for example, sport mode systems, economy mode systems, autonomous driving mode systems, sleep mode systems), and anti-theft systems, vehicle lock indicator systems, vehicle theft indicators, warning signal systems, temperature indicator systems, weather indicator systems, traffic light systems, fuel status systems, and / or any combination thereof.

[0008] A vehicle surveillance device is known from U.S. Patent No. 6,703,925, which has a housing and at least one mirror glass disposed within the housing to have a frontal side facing an observer. The at least one mirror glass has a reflective layer that reflects light within the visible light spectrum. At least one camera is disposed behind the reflective layer in the observation direction from the front. The surveillance device can be used for driver identification, monitoring the driver's condition, identifying passengers and their locations, controlling airbags, theft surveillance, and similar purposes.

[0009] A camera module for a rear-view device may include multiple different optical elements, various sensors and light sources, as well as a housing portion. The housing of the camera module may be made of plastic, metal, glass, any other suitable material and / or any combination thereof, and may be used in conjunction with techniques described below to alter or modify the properties of the material or material surface. A housing is described, for example, in German Patent Application No. 102016108247.3. Furthermore, the camera may include, for example, a CCD or CMOS or a light field sensor, as described, for example, in German Patent Application No. 102011053999. The sensor area may also be reserved for different purposes, such as for detecting a test beam, as described in U.S. Patent No. 8,031,224. The camera module may also be equipped with devices for light intensity adjustment, for example, as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 809,509, and a light level enhancement tube as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 09 / 771,140. Furthermore, different actuators, drivers, and / or flexible tracks can be used to move the camera module or a cover adapted to the camera module, as described, for example, in German patent application number 102016108247.3.

[0010] The camera module may also include cleaning elements for cleaning outward-facing optical elements exposed to the environment. Cleaning elements may include, for example, wipers, brushes, lip edges, nozzles, fans, and similar elements, as described in European Patent Application Nos. 14165197.6, 13163677.1, and 1673260. The composition of the cleaning device is not limited and may include, for example, any fabric, elastomer, sponge, brush, or combination of these objects. European Patent Application No. 14165197.6 describes special wiping elements including wiping arms, wiping blades, wiping fabrics, wiping yarns, and combinations thereof. European Patent Application No. 14165197.6 also describes a container for holding cleaning fluid. This container may be attached to or integrated into the camera module to provide cleaning fluid to the optical elements of the camera module. Different methods can be used to detect dirt or other obstructions that prevent or reduce the functionality of a camera module, as described in U.S. Patent No. 8,395,514, European Patent No. 1,328,141, and U.S. Patent No. 8,031,224. Furthermore, a light source can be mounted or integrated into the camera module to increase the visibility of surrounding objects, measure distance and direction, and detect dirt, as described in U.S. Patent No. 8,031,224, U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 470,658, and U.S. Patent Application No. 09 / 771,140.

[0011] Various heating devices, such as heating coils, heating devices incorporated into the lens holder or frame, or other heating elements, can be used to prevent condensation and icing on the surface of the optical element, as described, for example, in German Patent Application No. 102016108247.3, US Patent Application No. 62 / 470,658, and German Patent Application No. 102016107545.0.

[0012] Impermeable seals, as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 090,127, can be used on the housing of the camera module to resist weather effects and the effects of washing processes with detergents, solvents, and high-pressure cleaners. Alternatively, the housing can be made of a body comprising plastic and a conductive material, wherein the conductive material is dispersed in the plastic material to form conductive blocks, allowing a power source (preferably a DC voltage source) to be connected to the body via at least two electrodes and accordingly heat the body, as described in German Patent Application No. 102016107545.0. The camera module can be secured to a vehicle or other component using various types of accessories, such as snap-fit ​​connectors as described in European Patent No. 2233360.

[0013] Shape memory alloys (SMA) are used in various functions of rearview devices. European Patent Application No. 3098444 relates to an actuator device for a rearview device of a motor vehicle, comprising: at least one retaining element; at least one adjusting element that can be transferred to a plurality of functional positions, particularly from a basic position to at least one end position; at least one drive device comprising at least one shape memory element, particularly in the form of a wire, extending between the retaining element and the adjusting element and being fixed to or to both, wherein the extension of the shape memory element can be modified when actuated, particularly when energized, and by means of the modification of its extension, the at least one adjusting element can be transferred from one functional position to another, particularly from the basic position to the end position and vice versa; at least one heat-conducting device that contacts the drive device at least in the end position of the adjusting element; and wherein at least one switching device, by means of which the at least one drive device and the at least one heat-conducting device can be arranged relative to each other to be non-contacting in the basic position of the adjusting element, and / or by means of which the at least one drive device and the at least one heat-conducting device can be arranged to be at least partially in contact with each other at least in the end position of the adjusting element. Another actuator for an exterior rearview mirror of a vehicle is known from European Patent Application No. 2781743 and comprises: at least one actuator pin; at least one cylinder surrounding a cavity, wherein the actuator pin may be arranged or disposed therein in a non-rotational manner; at least one clamping device comprising at least one shape memory element which may be fixed to or attached to the cylinder, and by means of the shape memory element the cylinder may be moved in a first rotational direction; and at least one returning device comprising at least one shape memory element which may be fixed to or attached to the cylinder and by means of the shape memory element the cylinder may be moved in a second rotational direction, characterized in that the clamping device and / or the returning device may be fixed to or attached to a winding portion of the cylinder, and in the winding portion of the cylinder, at least a quarter winding, particularly at least half winding, particularly the entire winding, particularly several windings are applied.

[0014] It is also known to use a plastic substrate coated with a decorative coating, as described in U.S. Application No. 2017 / 015802, the decorative coating including a spectral control system and a stress control system. The desired optical effect will be the desired appearance of a surface or part of a surface of a product (when viewed from the front), said product including the coated substrate according to the invention. Taking into account the combined effects of the decorative coating, the plastic substrate, and the presence or absence of backlighting, the desired optical effect will consist of a combination of desired transmitted color, desired specular color, and desired diffuse color. In this regard, the plastic substrate needs to be considered because the substrate itself may be colored or transparent, or may include embedded particles to provide a hazy appearance to an uncoated substrate, or may have one or two surfaces with textures such as those that may be used to provide a "brushed metal" appearance.

[0015] U.S. Patent Application No. 2010 / 0177523 discloses optical fibers externally arranged on the housing of a rearview device, wherein light for coupling to these optical fibers is provided by a light source inside the rearview device via holes in the housing. This known arrangement of external optical fibers separate from the housing requires individual fiber placement for each type of rearview device, i.e., for each vehicle type.

[0016] For manufacturers of vehicle components, a modular layout is generally preferred. However, the side turn indicator unit needs to be visible from the outside, and therefore cannot always be made from parts suitable for different vehicle designs.

[0017] The LED module in the side turn indicator unit for a vehicle is mentioned in German patent application number 101 44 451A1.

[0018] European Patent Application No. 2,471,688A1 discloses the use of a light-emitting module for integrating a light source into a rearview device, wherein the light exits the housing of the device through an opening therein. U.S. Patent Application No. 2010 / 0265739 discloses a light-emitting diode (LED) for providing light for a side turn indicator. The LED has a dome-shaped end portion that fits into a hole in the housing of the rearview device, thereby allowing light to reach the outside of the housing. In both cases, water can enter the housing, creating humidity, which can adversely affect the durability of the electrical components therein (i.e., the LED itself).

[0019] European Patent Application No. 2 151 350A1 describes a rearview mirror that includes a reflective element within a cavity of a mirror housing having a lens portion and a mirror base. An indicator light is installed to indicate condition information to the vehicle driver, wherein the indicator light includes a light source and optical elements that allow light to pass through it. The indicator light has separate printed circuit boards to support at least two light source elements and a light guide, wherein light emitted from the light source is coupled to the end face of the light guide.

[0020] The lighting unit according to European Patent Application No. 2 463 153A1 has a lens portion extending into a housing and a disc-shaped portion extending along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle's exterior mirror. The housing has an illumination element to emit light in the output area as a turn signal, as required by laws and regulations. The illumination element illuminates the output area closer to the vehicle, making the warning indicator visible to drivers of other vehicles. Summary of the Invention

[0021] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to further develop known rear-view devices to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art. In particular, the components of the rear-view device will be adapted to provide a trade-off between allowing for a variety of different designs and external shapes of the rear-view device on the one hand, and including the same components for all rear-view devices on the other hand, in order to achieve cost-optimized production.

[0022] This objective is achieved according to the invention, wherein at least partially transparent elements are provided in the form of a first module attached to the housing, and the light generating device and / or camera device are provided in the form of a second module attached to the first module.

[0023] Preferably, the first module provides: at least one first contact surface facing the inner side of the housing, preferably engaging at least one wall of the housing; at least one second contact surface facing the second module, preferably engaging the second module; and at least one light emitting surface facing the outer side of the housing when the second module includes the light generating device and / or at least one light entering surface facing the outer side of the housing when the second module includes the camera device.

[0024] The first module may have a body and an extension, wherein preferably, at least a portion of the body acts as a lens for focusing or scattering light.

[0025] In one embodiment, the body provides a shoulder, an arm forming the extension extends from the shoulder, and the arm provides a head at its free end, wherein the second module is disposed between the shoulder and the head.

[0026] In another embodiment, the extension provides a recess or cavity into which the second module is at least partially inserted.

[0027] In this invention, the first module and the second module are mechanically, preferably releasably, coupled.

[0028] An embodiment of the present invention may be characterized in that the housing includes a housing having at least one wall and a frame, wherein preferably the housing is provided together with the first module as a compact unit.

[0029] Preferably, the second module is supported by the housing, particularly by the at least one wall and / or the frame, preferably by the frame.

[0030] According to one alternative to the rearview device of the invention, in particular at least one reflective element in the form of a mirror element is fixed to the housing, preferably to the frame, while according to another alternative, the at least one reflective element is movable relative to the housing.

[0031] Furthermore, the first module, particularly its body, is proposed to protrude from at least one outer surface of the housing, particularly beyond the imaginary outline connecting the outer surface of the at least one wall and the outer surface of the frame.

[0032] Alternatively, the first module, particularly its body, is flush with the outer surface of the outer shell.

[0033] The light generating device may include at least one light source (preferably a light-emitting diode) and a body therein in which the light source is arranged.

[0034] The body may include a printed circuit board, a lower half, and an upper half, wherein preferably the upper half is transparent, and / or the lower half is formed together with the printed circuit board, and / or the circuit board includes at least one control unit for controlling the light source.

[0035] Furthermore, the body may have at least one at least partially transparent portion preferably provided by the upper half and / or joined to the first module.

[0036] According to another alternative, the light generating device may include at least one optical fiber for guiding light emitted from at least one light source to a preferably dome-shaped end portion coupled to the first module and preferably inserted into the recess or cavity.

[0037] The light generating device also includes at least one light source having a dome-shaped emission surface, the emission surface being coupled to at least one optical fiber via a coupling element, wherein preferably the coupling element has an H-shaped cross-section.

[0038] According to another alternative, the light generating device may include at least one light source having a light emitting surface provided by an internal protrusion surrounded by an outer annular wall for coupling to at least one optical fiber.

[0039] The present invention also proposes to provide a plurality of first modules, wherein preferably each first module is coupled to a separate second module or to a common second module.

[0040] However, a single first module may exist, which is coupled to multiple second modules and / or has multiple optical trunks for input or output light, wherein preferably each trunk is coupled to a separate second module or to a common second module.

[0041] Therefore, the rearview device according to the invention includes a housing in which at least one light-generating device is arranged. The housing includes at least partially transparent elements providing a contact surface facing the inside of the housing and an outgoing emission surface facing the outside of the housing. "Transparent" means that light entering the element also leaves the element for at least some wavelengths in the visible light frequency range. "At least partially transparent" means that the entire element is not necessarily transparent; it may also have some opaque portions, for example, at its edges. A portion of the light-generating device (having a surface through which light leaves the light-generating device) is arranged adjacent to the contact surface of the at least partially transparent element, such that the leaving light is guided through the at least partially transparent element to the outgoing emission surface. Therefore, for the present invention, all light-generating elements can be arranged inside the housing, and since the elements of the housing itself are transparent or have at least transparent portions, it is not necessary to provide other elements on the outside. Each automobile manufacturer can design a separate rearview device for each vehicle, and the transparent element, which is only part of the housing, may need to be custom-molded for the design of the rearview device. The rest of the optical elements can always be of the same type. A larger number of such elements can be produced, resulting in a lower overall cost.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the rearview device, the aforementioned portion of the light-generating device is mechanically coupled to a at least partially transparent element. This allows the emitting surface of the portion and the contact surface of the transparent element to be arranged very close to each other, resulting in high coupling efficiency, i.e., a good ratio of output intensity to input intensity.

[0043] Preferably, the at least partially transparent element includes a shoulder, a transparent arm extending from the shoulder, a protruding head disposed on the transparent arm, and the portion of the light-generating device held between the protruding head and the shoulder. Therefore, the transparent element itself provides mechanical coupling, eliminating the need for other components such as screws, clamps, etc.

[0044] In this embodiment, more preferably, the wall of the housing (specifically in the form of a frame) abuts against at least the portion of the light generating device in order to stably hold the entire light generating device within the housing.

[0045] In this embodiment of the rearview device, it is also preferred that the light generating device includes a light source integrated into the body of the light generating device, preferably a light-emitting diode, wherein the body has at least a partially transparent portion, and the surface through which the light from the light generating device exits is the surface of the body. Therefore, the light generating device can be provided as a very compact component that can be used in various types of rearview devices.

[0046] In another preferred embodiment of the rearview device, the light generating device includes a light source to which an optical fiber is coupled, wherein the end portion of the optical fiber is coupled to an element that is at least partially transparent. An advantage of this embodiment is that the light source can be arranged away from the transparent element, at a suitable location inside the housing, or alternatively, even outside of it (e.g., inside the vehicle).

[0047] In this embodiment, more preferably, the end portion of the optical fiber is dome-shaped and fits into a cavity within the at least partially transparent element. The rearview device can then be installed very quickly.

[0048] In all the embodiments mentioned above, at least partially transparent elements can be shaped to protrude from at least one outer surface of the housing (the remainder). The emitted light is then most readily visible.

[0049] Alternatively, at least partially transparent elements (their outer surface) are flush with the outer surface of the housing (the rest). This reduces the vehicle's aerodynamic drag, and the rearview device can then be considered aesthetically attractive.

[0050] In all the embodiments mentioned above, the at least partially transparent element is preferably an element that is separate from the (other) housing wall, and therefore can be installed, or subsequently removed and placed, most easily.

[0051] For certain purposes, it may be preferable that the rear-view device includes a plurality of at least partially transparent elements. This can then improve signal transmission.

[0052] At least partially transparent elements can each be coupled to another light-generating device, thereby providing redundant and independent signal transmission.

[0053] At least partially transparent elements can also be coupled to the same light-generating device, which is economical.

[0054] The present invention also provides vehicles that include rearview devices of all inventive types disclosed herein.

[0055] The following describes further details of the first module, including the transparent element, which will be used in the rearview device of the present invention:

[0056] A preferred transparent element according to the invention for a vehicle's rearview device has a body forming a shoulder, an arm extending from the shoulder, and a head disposed on the arm, the head protruding from the body to the same side forming the shoulder, such that another element, i.e., a second module, can be held between the head and the shoulder. The arm presents a contact surface adapted to couple light exiting from this other element held between the head and the shoulder into the body. The body provides another surface and is formed such that light coupled into the body via the contact surface exits via this other surface. This type of transparent element can be used in a rearview device according to the invention, i.e., for a modular arrangement of components, when forming the housing of such a rearview device. It can even be used in combination with different housing shapes.

[0057] Preferably, the body has at least a portion that acts as a lens for focusing or dispersing light along a path from the contact surface to the other surface. In other words, the transparent element is not merely a light guide, but a true optical lens-like element.

[0058] In the following sections, further details will be described regarding the form of the light-generating device used in the second module of the rearview device of the present invention:

[0059] According to the present invention, a first light-generating device includes a printed circuit board on which a light source, preferably a light-emitting diode, is mounted, and the printed circuit board is held in a body having at least one transparent portion that provides (or exposes) an exit surface of the light-generating device through which light emitted from the light source can exit. Therefore, the light-generating device can be manufactured as a very compact component that can be used in various types of rearview devices.

[0060] Preferably, the printed circuit board includes at least one control unit for controlling the light source in a manner that provides a flashing indicator light. In other words, no external device is required to provide a flash for the indicator, i.e., to trigger the rearview device, or only the module therein acts as a side turn indicator unit.

[0061] The second light-generating device includes a light-emitting diode (LED) having a dome-shaped emitting surface coupled to an optical fiber via a coupling element comprising an H-shaped cross-section. LEDs with dome-shaped emitting surfaces are known, and the dome acts as a lens for directly emitting light. However, it is difficult to direct light from such an LED to another location. This is solved by proper coupling of the optical fiber.

[0062] The third generating device includes a light-emitting diode (LED) having an emitting surface with an outer annular wall and an internal protrusion, wherein the end portion of the optical fiber is retained within the outer annular wall. Here, the diode itself provides its own coupling element for the light guide.

[0063] The second module is not limited to a light-generating device, but may alternatively or additionally include a camera device. Attached Figure Description

[0064] The invention will be better understood through the following description of preferred embodiments, which are described by way of example with respect to schematic diagrams, wherein:

[0065] Figure 1 A partial front view of a rearview device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0066] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 Sections I, II, and I in the middle;

[0067] Figure 3 A partial front view of the rearview device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0068] Figure 4 Show Figure 3 Section IV-IV in the middle;

[0069] Figure 5 A perspective view of a light-generating device that can be used in a first or second embodiment of the rearview device of the present invention is shown.

[0070] Figure 6 A perspective view showing components of another light-generating device that can be used in the third or fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0071] Figure 7 Examples of rearview devices according to a third embodiment include Figure 2 The cross section in;

[0072] Figure 8 Examples of rearview devices according to the fourth embodiment include Figure 4 The cross section in;

[0073] Figure 9 Showing according to Figure 6 Another perspective view of the component;

[0074] Figure 10 Showing coupling to in the first manner Figure 9 The cross-section of the light-emitting diode shown is a photoconductor.

[0075] Figure 11 This shows coupling to in a second manner. Figure 9 The cross-section of the light-emitting diode shown is illustrated; and

[0076] Figure 12 A front view of a rearview device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Figure 1 The image depicts a rearview mirror, indicated by 1, which is a rearview device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The rearview mirror 1 includes a light-generating device 10 disposed within a housing composed of a hollow shell or a shell, wherein the wall 12 of the housing... Figure 2 As shown in the cross-sectional view. In a known manner, a portion of the housing is also the frame 14, with a transparent lens-like element 16 arranged between the wall 12 and the frame 14 to complement both portions when the entire housing is preferably formed in a manner that makes the housing tight. For example, the transparent element 16 may be clamped between the wall 12 and the frame 14. The transparent element 16 may be formed of glass or made by molding a transparent plastic material, and is completely transparent in all examples herein, but may also be only partially transparent, provided that its function, as described below, is achieved.

[0078] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example, the transparent element 16 has a first outer (emission) surface 16a flush with the outer surface of the wall 14. Furthermore, there is a second outer (emission) surface 16b of the transparent element 16, which is flush with the front portion of the rearview mirror 1 (i.e., the end of the frame 14 and the mirror element 18 held therein by the frame 14), wherein the mirror element 18 is fixed to the housing via the frame 14. A third outer (emission) surface 16c of the transparent element 16 connects the first and second surfaces 16a and 16b, thereby providing the transparent element 16 with a smooth, flat edge or corner. The transparent element 16 has an arm 16-1 extending from the body to engage the inner surface of the wall 12 on one side and the light generating device 10 on the opposite side. Specifically, the arm 16-1 is positioned between a shoulder and a hook-shaped head on the opposite side to hold the light generating device 10 between them. Since the frame 14 also abuts against the light generating element 10, the light generating element is stably held within the rearview mirror 1.

[0079] The surface 10a of the light-generating element 10, which engages with the arm 16-1, is held between the head and shoulder. The light-generating element 10 is configured to emit light outward via or through the surface 10a, and thus couple that light into the arm 16-1. The arm 1-1 acts as a light guide, directing at least a portion of the internally coupled light to one or more of the outward emitting surfaces 16a, 16b, 16c, so that the light from the light-generating element 10 can exit the housing through the transparent element 16.

[0080] Compared to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The overall layout described above is suitable for construction by the following individual modules:

[0081] A module for the light-generating element 10, which can be the same for any type of rearview mirror, and

[0082] A module in the form of a transparent element 16, which can be individually fitted and customized for different types of housings and therefore different rearview mirrors.

[0083] The second embodiment of the rearview mirror 1' of the present invention is in Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in the figure. In contrast to the fixed mirror solution of the first embodiment, this second embodiment utilizes a mirror element that can move relative to the housing. Therefore, the frame 14 of the second embodiment has a beveled portion whose legs terminate at a surface 14a, which faces the lateral side of the rearview mirror 1' and does not engage with the mirror element 18 to keep the mirror element 18 displaceable.

[0084] In the second embodiment, the transparent element 16 is clamped between the wall 12 and the frame 14, but it protrudes beyond the imaginary contour line 20 that most naturally connects the outer surface of the wall 12 and the outer surface 14a. Figure 3 As can be seen from the front view, especially see Figure 1 In contrast to the flush solution of the first embodiment, the transparent element 16 protrudes from the overall outline of the housing.

[0085] In both rearview mirrors 1 and 1', in the first and second embodiments, the light generating device 10 is provided as a compact entity or unit, and thus in a manner as... Figure 5 The depicted module is provided in the form of a printed circuit board 22 at its core, carrying at least one light-emitting device (LED) 24. The printed circuit board 22 is held within the lower half 26 of the light-generating device 10, which is covered by a completely transparent upper half (cover) 28. A port 30 allows for the supply of electrical power to the printed circuit board 22. The printed circuit board 22 includes all the components necessary to control the LED 24, such as a control unit and impedance matching elements (not shown). The LED 24 is adapted to operate intermittently (blink) under such control to provide side turn indicator units for the rearview mirrors 1, 1'. Instead of using separable halves 26, 28, the printed circuit board 22 can be integral with the rest of the body, for example, by molding with resin.

[0086] Figure 6 and Figure 9 Alternative light generating devices 40 are shown for use with the third and fourth embodiments of the rearview devices 101', 101" of the present invention. Each of the alternative light generating devices 40 is more or less bullet-shaped. In both alternatives, the light generating device 40 is provided with at least one optical fiber 48 for guiding light emitted from an LED (not shown) to a pin 44 terminating in a dome-shaped end portion 42. A fixing device 46, for example in the form of a clamping arm, is optional.

[0087] Figure 7 A third embodiment combining a fixation lens solution is described. According to... Figure 7 The housing of the rearview device 101' utilizes a design that is already relative to... Figure 2 The components 12 and 14 are described. However, the transparent element 16 of the third embodiment is... Figure 2 The difference in the transparent element shown is that it provides a cavity for accommodating the dome-shaped end portion 42 of the light generating device 40.

[0088] Figure 8 A fourth embodiment combining a moving mirror solution is described. According to... Figure 8 The housing of the rearview device 101' utilizes a design that is already relative to... Figure 4 The elements 12 and 14 are described. However, the transparent element 16 of the fourth embodiment is similar to that of the third embodiment in that it is provided with a cavity for accommodating the dome-shaped end portion 42 of the light generating device 40.

[0089] If you have already referred to Figure 4 As described in the second embodiment, the transparent element 16 in the third and fourth embodiments protrudes beyond the imaginary outline 20.

[0090] In order for the light to exit the dome-shaped end portion 42, at least one LED needs to emit light into the light guide fiber 48. Figure 6 or Figure 9 As shown. In Figure 10 The first variant of the corresponding optical coupling is described in the figure, and in Figure 11 The second variant is described in the text.

[0091] Figure 10 An LED 50 with a lens portion 52 is shown, which allows a coupling element 60 with an H-shaped cross-section to be fixed thereto. Specifically, the coupling element 60 has annular walls on two opposite sides to form an H-shape. When one side of the coupling element 60 is engaged with the lens portion 52, the other side is engaged with an optical fiber 48 in a similar manner.

[0092] Figure 11 The image shows an LED 70 with an annular wall 72 forming therein, the annular wall surrounding a cavity 74, which in turn surrounds a convex protrusion 76 at the end portion of the LED 70. The annular wall 72 allows for the housing of a light-guiding optical fiber 48.

[0093] All four embodiments described so far utilize a single transparent element 16 in conjunction with a single light-generating device. For example... Figure 12 As shown, several transparent elements can also be used in a rearview mirror, or a transparent element can be used together with several light generating devices.

[0094] Figure 12 A fifth embodiment of the rearview mirror 201 of the present invention is shown, which uses a more or less annular transparent element 216 that follows the contour of the wall 212 of the housing. The transparent element 216 is formed with three input trunks 218 for light, each of which is adapted to be coupled to a common light-generating device, such as... Figure 5 The light generating device 10. Alternatively, such as Figure 6 or Figure 9 A single optical fiber 48, as shown, can be coupled to each of the input terminals 218, where the fiber receives light from one or more light sources (e.g., LEDs). This allows for a variety of lighting effects. The transparent element 16 not only helps to emit light but can also be used as a frame. It may even be transparent only in certain sections to allow for a variety of design alternatives.

[0095] The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following claims or drawings, expressed in their particular form or in relation to the manner of performing the disclosed function, may be suitably used, individually or in any combination of such features, to implement the invention in its various forms.

[0096] List of reference numerals

[0097] 1, 1' Rearview device (mirror) for vehicles

[0098] 10. Light generating device

[0099] 10a Contact surface of light generating device

[0100] 12. The walls of the outer shell

[0101] 14. The frame of the outer casing

[0102] 14a Surface of border 14

[0103] 16 Transparent Components

[0104] 16-1 Arm of transparent element 16

[0105] Outward emission surfaces of transparent element 16 (16a, 16b, 16c)

[0106] 18. Mirror element of the rearview device

[0107] 20 Imaginary outlines

[0108] 22 Printed Circuit Boards

[0109] 24 Light Emitting Diodes

[0110] 26 The lower half of the main body of the light generating device 10

[0111] 28 The upper half of the main body of the light generating device 10

[0112] 30 Contact port of light generating device 10

[0113] 40 Light generating device

[0114] 42. Dome-shaped end portion

[0115] 44 sales

[0116] 46 Fixing device

[0117] 48 optical fibers

[0118] 50 Light Emitting Diodes

[0119] 52. Lens portion of LED 50

[0120] 60 Coupling element

[0121] 70 Light Emitting Diode

[0122] 72. The annular outer wall at the end portion of the light-emitting diode 70

[0123] 74 cavities

[0124] 76. The convex protrusion at the end portion of the light-emitting diode 70

[0125] 101' and 101' are used for rearview mirrors on vehicles.

[0126] 201 Rearview mirrors for vehicles

[0127] 212 The walls of the outer shell

[0128] 216 Transparent Ring

[0129] 218 Optical Input Trunk

Claims

1. An external rearview device (1, 1', 101', 101'', 201) for a motor vehicle, comprising a housing (12, 14) and at least one light emitting and / or receiving device, said at least one light emitting and / or receiving device comprising: At least one light generating device (10) is arranged within the housing (12, 14); 50； 70) and / or at least one camera device, and At least one at least partially transparent element (16) that closes the opening provided by the housing (12, 14). in, The at least partially transparent element (16) is provided in the form of a first module attached to the housing (12, 14). The light generating device (10; 50; 70) and / or the camera device are provided as a second module attached to the first module, wherein the first module and the second module are mechanically and releasably coupled, and The outer shell (12, 14) comprises a hollow shell having at least one wall (12) and a frame (14). Its features are, The first module protrudes from at least one outer surface of the housing (12, 14) beyond the imaginary contour line (20) connecting the outer surface of the at least one wall (12) and the outer surface (14a) of the frame (14), thus protruding beyond the overall contour of the housing (12, 14), and The at least partially transparent element (16) is clamped between the at least one wall (12) of the housing and the frame (14).

2. The rear-view device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first module provides: At least one first contact surface (10a) facing the inside of the outer casing (12, 14). At least one second contact surface facing the second module, and At least one light emitting surface (16a, 16b, 16c) facing the outside of the housing (12, 14) when the second module includes the light generating device (10; 50; 70) and / or at least one light entering surface facing the outside of the housing (12, 14) when the second module includes the camera device.

3. The rear-view device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The at least one first contact surface (10a) engages the at least one wall (12) of the housing (12, 14).

4. The rear-view device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The at least one second contact surface engages the second module.

5. The rear-view device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first module has a main body and an extension (16-1).

6. The rear-view device according to claim 5, characterized in that, At least a portion of the body acts as a lens for focusing or scattering light.

7. The rear-view device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The body provides a shoulder, and an arm (16-1) forming the extension extends from the shoulder, and The arm (16-1) provides a head at its free end. The second module is disposed between the shoulder and the head.

8. The rear-view device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The extension provides a recess or cavity into which the second module is at least partially inserted.

9. The rear-view device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The second module is supported by the at least one wall (12) and / or the frame (14), wherein the housing (12, 14) together with the first module provides a compact unit.

10. The rear-view device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, At least one reflective element is fixed to the housing (12, 14) or is movable relative to the housing (12, 14).

11. The rear-view device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The at least one reflective element is in the form of a mirror element (18).

12. The rearview device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The light generating device (10) includes: At least one light source, and The light source is arranged within the body (22, 26, 28).

13. The rear-view device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The at least one light source is a light-emitting diode (24).

14. The rearview device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The main body (22, 26, 28) includes a printed circuit board (22), a lower half (26), and an upper half (28). The upper half (28) is transparent, and / or the lower half (26) is formed together with the printed circuit board (22), and / or the circuit board (22) includes at least one control unit for controlling the light source (24).

15. The rearview device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The body (22, 26, 28) has at least one at least partially transparent portion provided by the upper half (28) and / or joined to the first module.

16. The rearview device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The light generating device (40) includes at least one optical fiber (48) for guiding light emitted from at least one light source to an end portion (42) coupled to the first module.

17. The rear-view device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The end portion (42) is dome-shaped.

18. The rearview device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The light generating device includes at least one light source (50) having a dome-shaped emission surface (52) coupled to at least one optical fiber (48) via a coupling element (60).

19. The rearview device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The coupling element (60) has an H-shaped cross-section.

20. The rearview device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The light generating device includes at least one light source (70) having a light emitting surface provided by an internal protrusion (76) surrounded by an outer annular wall (72) for coupling to at least one optical fiber (48).

21. The rear-view device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Multiple first modules are provided.

22. The rearview device according to claim 21, characterized in that, Each first module is coupled to a separate second module or to a common second module.

23. The rear-view device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, A single first module is coupled to multiple second modules and / or a single first module is provided with multiple optical trunks (218) for input or output light.

24. The rearview device according to claim 23, characterized in that, Each trunk line (218) is coupled to a separate second module or to a common second module.

25. A vehicle having at least one rearview device (1, 1', 101', 101'', 201) according to any one of claims 1 to 24.

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