Rearview mirror assembly

Abstract

A rearview mirror assembly includes a housing and a printed circuit board (PCB) located within the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a monitoring system comprising an image capture module, an illumination source connected to the PCB, and optical elements aligned with the illumination source. The optical elements are configured to redirect illumination light from the illumination source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a rearview mirror assembly, and more specifically to a rearview mirror assembly with a driver monitoring system including optical elements for redirecting and diffusing illumination light. Summary of the Invention

[0002] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a rearview mirror assembly includes a housing and a printed circuit board (PCB) located within the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a monitoring system comprising an image capture module, an illumination source connected to the PCB, and optical elements aligned with the illumination source. The optical elements are configured to redirect and diffuse illumination light from the illumination source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle.

[0003] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a rearview mirror assembly includes a housing and a printed circuit board (PCB) located within the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a monitoring system comprising an image capture module, an illumination source connected to the PCB, and optical elements aligned with the illumination source. The optical elements include a plurality of wedges, each extending to a vertex. The plurality of wedges are configured to redirect and diffuse illumination light from the illumination source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle.

[0004] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a rearview mirror assembly includes a housing, a transmissive element at least partially located within the housing, and a printed circuit board (PCB) located within the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a monitoring system comprising an image capture module, an illumination source connected to the PCB, and optical elements aligned with the illumination source, the optical elements including a plurality of wedges each extending to a vertex. The plurality of wedges are configured to redirect and diffuse illumination light from the illumination source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle.

[0005] These and other features, advantages and objectives of this disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon reference to the following description, claims and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0006] In each diagram:

[0007] Figure 1 This is a top perspective view of a car with a rearview mirror assembly incorporated according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0008] Figure 2 This is a front view of a rearview mirror assembly according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0009] Figure 3AThis is a cross-sectional side view of a rearview mirror assembly having a lighting source and optical elements arranged in a first configuration, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional side view of a rearview mirror assembly having a lighting source and optical elements arranged in a second configuration, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 3C This is a cross-sectional side view of a rearview mirror assembly having a lighting source and optical elements arranged in a third arrangement, according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3D This is a cross-sectional side view of a rearview mirror assembly having a lighting source and optical elements arranged in a fourth arrangement, according to one aspect of this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 3E This is a cross-sectional side view of a rearview mirror assembly having a lighting source and optical elements arranged in a fifth arrangement, according to one aspect of this disclosure;

[0014] Figure 4A This is a side perspective view of a lighting source and an optical element having a first configuration according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first configuration redirecting and diffusing the lighting light from the lighting source;

[0015] Figure 4B This is a rear view of a lighting source and an optical element having a first configuration according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the first configuration redirecting and diffusing illumination light from the lighting source;

[0016] Figure 5A This is a side view of a lighting source and an optical element having a second configuration according to one aspect of this disclosure, the second configuration redirecting and diffusing the lighting light from the lighting source;

[0017] Figure 5B This is a rear view of a lighting source and an optical element having a second configuration according to one aspect of this disclosure, the second configuration redirecting and diffusing the lighting light from the lighting source;

[0018] Figure 6A This is a side perspective view of an illumination source and an optical element having a third configuration according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the third configuration redirecting illumination light from the illumination source and causing it to diffuse from the illumination source;

[0019] Figure 6B This is a rear view of an illumination source and an optical element having a third configuration according to one aspect of this disclosure, the third configuration redirecting illumination light from the illumination source and causing it to diffuse from the illumination source;

[0020] Figure 7AThis is a rear view of a lighting source and an optical element having a fourth configuration according to one aspect of this disclosure, the fourth configuration redirecting and diffusing the lighting light from the lighting source;

[0021] Figure 7B This is a front view of a lighting source and an optical element having a fourth configuration according to one aspect of this disclosure, the fourth configuration redirecting and diffusing the lighting light from the lighting source;

[0022] Figure 8A This is a side perspective view of an illumination source and an optical element having a fifth configuration according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the fifth configuration redirecting illumination light from the illumination source and causing it to diffuse from the illumination source;

[0023] Figure 8B This is a rear view of a lighting source and an optical element having a fifth configuration according to one aspect of this disclosure, said fifth configuration redirecting illumination light from the lighting source and diffusing it away from the lighting source; and

[0024] Figure 9 This is a side perspective view of an illumination source and an optical element having a sixth configuration according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the sixth configuration redirecting illumination light from the illumination source and causing it to diffuse from the illumination source. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The embodiments illustrated in this invention primarily concern a combination of method steps and device components related to a rearview mirror assembly with a driver monitoring system, the driver monitoring system including optical elements for redirecting and diffusing illumination light. Therefore, device components and method steps have been indicated where appropriate by conventional symbols in the figures, with only those specific details relevant to understanding embodiments of this disclosure shown to avoid obscuring the disclosure, which has details that will be obvious to those skilled in the art and have the benefit of the description herein. Furthermore, the same numbers in the description and figures denote the same elements.

[0026] For the purposes described herein, the terms “up,” “down,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and their derivatives shall be used in relation to this disclosure as directed toward the rear of the rearview mirror assembly. Unless otherwise stated, the term “front” shall refer to the device surface closer to the intended viewer of the device, and the term “rear” shall refer to the device surface farther from the intended viewer of the device. However, it should be understood that various alternative orientations may be employed in this disclosure, except where explicitly specified otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated in the claims, the specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0027] The terms "including," "comprises," "comprising," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or not inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further constraints, an element preceded by "including..." does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0028] See Figure 1-6B Reference numeral 10 generally refers to a rearview mirror assembly. The rearview mirror assembly 10 includes a housing 12 and a printed circuit board (PCB) 14 located within the housing. The rearview mirror assembly 10 further includes a monitoring system 16, which includes an image capture module 18 (e.g., a camera), an illumination source 20 connected to the PCB 14, and an optical element 22 coupled to the PCB 14 and aligned with the illumination source 20. The optical element 22 is configured to redirect and diffuse illumination light from the illumination source 20 toward an occupant position 24 (e.g., the driver's position) within the vehicle 26.

[0029] refer to Figure 1 Various embodiments of the rearview mirror assembly 10 can be combined with one or more structures. For example, the rearview mirror assembly 10 can be used in the conventional rearview mirror position in a car 26. In other embodiments, components of the rearview mirror assembly 10 can be incorporated into emergency vehicles, passenger vehicles, aircraft, rail vehicles, etc. In some embodiments, the rearview mirror assembly 10 may not include a reflective element and instead function as a dimmable display. Generally, the rearview mirror assembly 10 can be incorporated into any environment where monitoring the occupant position 24 may be beneficial.

[0030] refer to Figure 2 and 3A The housing 12 of the rearview mirror assembly 10 includes a frame 27 defining an opening 28, and a transmission element 30 ( Figure 3A The transmission element 30 is located in the opening 28. It includes a front surface 32 facing the occupant position 24 and a rear surface 34 generally facing away from the occupant position 24. Figure 3AThe transmissive element 30 can be configured and / or otherwise coupled to an electro-optic device containing the electro-optic medium 33. Thus, the transmissive element 30 can switch between a reflective state and a darkened state, in which the electro-optic medium 33 is in a transmissive state and the rearview mirror assembly 10 operates as a reflector, and in the darkened state, the electro-optic medium 33 has reduced optical transmittance (e.g., to reduce glare). A reflective layer (not shown) can be located between the housing 12 and the transmissive element 30 to reflect light in the reflective state. More specifically, the reflective layer can be located between a substrate defining the rear surface 34 and the electro-optic medium 33. A display device 35 can be located between the housing 12 and the electro-optic medium 33 for displaying information from the monitoring system 16 to the driver. The reflectivity of the transmissive element 30 can always be low in front of the display device 35. The electro-optic device and electro-optic medium 33 disclosed herein can be a single-layer single-phase component, a multi-layer component, or a multi-phase component, as described in the following documents: U.S. Patent No. 5,928,572 entitled "Electrochromic Layer and Devices Comprising Same", U.S. Patent No. 5,998,617 entitled "Electrochromic Compounds", U.S. Patent No. 6,020,987 entitled "Electrochromic Medium Capable of Producing a Pre-selected Color", U.S. Patent No. 6,037,471 entitled "Electrochromic Compounds", and U.S. Patent No. 33 entitled "Electrochromic Media for Producing a Pre-selected Color". U.S. Patent No. 6,141,137 entitled "Coupled Electrochromic Compounds With Photostable Dication Oxidation States", U.S. Patent No. 6,249,369 entitled "Electrochromic Media With Concentration Enhanced Stability", and U.S. Patent No. 6,241,137 entitled "Coupled Electrochromic Compounds With Photostable Dication Oxidation States", and U.S. Patent No. 6,249,369 entitled "Electrochromic Media With Concentration Enhanced Stability, Preparation Process Thereof and Use in Electrochromic Devices".U.S. Patent No. 6,137,620 entitled "Process for the Preparation Thereof and Use in Electrochromic Devices", and U.S. Patent No. 6,519,072 entitled "Electrochromic Device"; and International Patent Application Publication No. WO 98 / 42796 entitled "Electrochromic Polymeric Solid Films, Manufacturing Electrochromic Devices Using Such Solid Films and Processes for Making Such Solid Films and Devices", and International Patent Application Publication No. WO 98 / 42796 entitled "Electrochromic Polymer System". International Patent Application Publication No. 99 / 02621, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference. This disclosure may also be used with display mirror systems, such as those described in U.S. Patents Nos. 9,505,349 and 10,739,591, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0031] Continue to refer to Figure 2 and 3APCB 14 may include multiple PCBs 14 or a single PCB 14. For example, features of the transmission element 30 and the monitoring system 16 may operate on PCB 14, and the image capture module 18 may operate on a separate PCB (e.g., a second PCB 15). PCBs 14 and 15 may be located within housing 12 and completely surrounded by the combination of housing 12 and the transmission element 30. Housing 12 may include a connecting hub 36, which may be connected to a mounting member 38. Mounting member 38 is configured to connect to vehicle 26 (or other environment), and housing 12 may be movable relative to mounting member 38 to orient the transmission element 30 at various angles relative to occupant position 24 (or other environmental position) to obtain different environmental views and / or orientations relative to the vehicle operator. PCBs 14 and 15 may be connected to the interior 40 of housing 12 and move with housing 12 as housing 12 is adjusted relative to mounting member 38. In some embodiments, carrier element 43 may connect one or both of PCBs 14 and 15 to housing 12. In some embodiments, carrier element 43 may also connect transmission element 30 to housing 12. Image capture module 18, illumination source 20, and optical element 22 can also move with housing 12 as housing 12 is adjusted relative to mounting component 38. In some embodiments, illumination element 20 and PCB 14 are located on the side of connecting hub 36 opposite to image capture module 18 and second PCB 15 (e.g., left or right). In some embodiments, image capture module 18 may be located outside housing 12. In other embodiments, and as... Figure 2 As shown, the illumination source 20 and the optical element 22 can be aligned with the central region of the transmission element 30 (e.g., aligned with the connecting hub 36). In this way, the optical element 22 can be switched (e.g., rotated 180 degrees) during manufacturing to redirect light for left and right driver-side monitoring. Furthermore, the image capture module 18 can be positioned toward the right or left side of the optical element 22.

[0032] Now for reference Figure 3A The illumination source 20 can be directly connected to the PCB 14, and the optical element 22 can be spaced apart from the illumination source 20 using the connecting body 42. For example, the connecting body 42 can be configured as a pin (e.g., one or more), a clamp, and / or one or more of the carrier elements 43 connecting the PCB 14 to the housing 12. The connecting body 42 can be directly connected to the optical element 22 and extends to at least one of the PCB 14, illumination source 20, carrier element 43, housing 12, or transmission element 30 and is directly connected to said at least one. Figure 3BThe optical element 22 may include an outer perimeter, and the connecting body 42 may be attached to the outer perimeter or its interior. For example, in some embodiments, the optical element 22 may include an aperture adjacent to the outer perimeter for receiving the connecting body 42. In some embodiments, the connecting body 42 may be attached to the optical element 22 by other components such as adhesives, clamps, etc. The connecting body 42 may be attached to the PCB 14 and / or the lighting source 20 using components similar to those used for attaching to the optical element 22.

[0033] Now for reference Figure 3C-3E Optical element 22 can be directly connected to transmission element 30, for example, via a wetting process and by direct bonding with an adhesive (e.g., optical adhesive). Figure 3C As shown, the optical element 22 can be located on one side of the front surface 32 of the transmission element 30 (e.g., connected to the front surface 32). For example... Figure 3D In other embodiments, such as the arrangement shown, the optical element 22 may be located on one side of the rear surface 34 of the transmission element 30 (e.g., connected to the rear surface 34 and / or otherwise located between the rear surface 34 and the illumination source 20). For example... Figure 3E In other embodiments, such as the arrangement shown, the optical element 22 may extend through a portion of the housing 12, such as the bottom edge of the frame 27. The illumination source 20 may include two or more illumination sources 20, and the optical element 22 may include two or more optical elements 22. In some embodiments, the two or more illumination sources 20 may be aligned with a single optical element 22. In some embodiments, each of the two or more illumination sources 20 may be aligned with a different optical element 22.

[0034] Now for reference Figure 1-3E The illumination source 20 can be configured to project light using various operating principles. For example, the light source 20 can be configured to project floodlight illumination (e.g., in the visible and / or infrared spectrum). In this way, the optical element 22 can redirect and diffuse the floodlight illumination to different locations around the vehicle 26. In some embodiments, the light can be projected in a structured light pattern (e.g., at least one of the two operations of redirection and / or diffusion by the optical element 22). The image capture module 18 can capture an image of the structured light pattern, and the control system (e.g., located on the first PCB 14 and / or the second PCB 15) can be configured to extrapolate the structured light image to obtain two-dimensional (“2D”) and / or three-dimensional (“3D”) information about, for example, the occupant position 24. In this way, the rearview mirror assembly 10 (e.g., the monitoring system 16) can be used for driver monitoring capabilities. Additionally, it should be understood that the illumination source 20 can be configured to project light using other operating principles for driver monitoring in 2D or 3D space.

[0035] Now for reference Figures 4A-4B The optical element 22 and the illumination source 20 are isolated from the other components of the rearview mirror assembly 10. The optical element 22 is shown according to a first configuration. The optical element 22 includes a first main surface 48 facing the illumination source 20 and a second main surface 49 facing away from the illumination source 20. The first main surface 48 defines at least one refractive element 50. The at least one refractive element 50 may include a plurality of vertically arranged wedges 52, the plurality of wedges being such that... Figure 4A The arrows in the diagram indicate the horizontal redirection and uniform diffusion of illumination light from illumination source 20. More specifically, each of the wedges 52 may include an inclined surface 54 extending horizontally outward from the first main surface 48 to a apex 56, and a cliff portion 58 extending from the apex 56 to the adjacent wedge 52. In some embodiments, the inclined surface 54 of the wedge 52 is curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse the illumination light. The apex 56 may also be curved (e.g., defined by a radius), and the cliff portion 58 may be angled from the apex 56 toward or away from the inclined surface 54. Each wedge 52 extends (e.g., linearly) across the first main surface 48 from the top side 60 to the bottom side 62 of the optical element 22. The optical element 22 may be tapered, such that one side 60, 62 is thicker than the other side 60, 62 (“T”) to vertically bend light (i.e., illumination light from illumination source 20) thereby redirecting light in the vertical direction, such as... Figure 4B As indicated by the arrows in the diagram. In some embodiments, the top side 60 is thinner than the bottom side 62. In this way, the direction of the cone can further bend light in a vertically downward direction. In some embodiments, the cone may be on a first main surface 48, and the second main surface 49 may be generally planar. In some embodiments, one of the main surfaces 48, 49 (e.g., the second main surface 49) may be curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse the illumination light. In some embodiments, the cone may be on the second main surface 49, and the apex 56 of each wedge 52 may extend into a plane. In some embodiments, two or more wedges 52 may each include an inclined surface 54, which is inclined at different intervals or exhibits different curvatures for further redirection and diffusion of light.

[0036] Now for reference Figure 5A and 5B The second configuration shows optical element 122. Unless otherwise specified, optical element 122 may be incorporated at least into Figure 1The optical element 122 may include features, elements, and materials similar to those described herein, as well as those in other constructions. More specifically, the optical element 122 includes a first main surface 148 facing the illumination source 20 and a second main surface 149 facing away from the illumination source 20. The first main surface 148 defines at least one refractive element 150. The at least one refractive element 150 may include a plurality of horizontally arranged wedges 152 to, for example, Figure 5A The arrows in the diagram indicate the redirection and uniform diffusion of illumination light from illumination source 20 in the vertical direction. More specifically, each of the wedges 152 may include an inclined surface 154 extending vertically outward from the first main surface 148 to a apex 156, and a cliff portion 158 extending from the apex 156 to the adjacent wedge 152. In some embodiments, the inclined surface 154 of the wedge 152 is curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse the illumination light. The apex 156 may also be curved (e.g., defined by a radius), and the cliff portion 158 may be angled from the apex 156 toward or away from the inclined surface 154. Each wedge 152 extends across the first main surface 148 (e.g., linearly) from the right side 164 to the left side 166 of the optical element 122. The optical element 122 may be tapered, such that one side 164, 166 is thicker (“T”) than the other side 164, 166 to bend light horizontally. In some embodiments, the left side 166 is thinner than the right side 164. In this way, the direction of the cone can further bend light in a horizontal rightward direction. In some embodiments, the cone can be on a first main surface 148, and the second main surface 149 can be generally planar. In some embodiments, one of the main surfaces 148, 149 (e.g., the second main surface 149) can be curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse the illumination light. In some embodiments, the cone can be on the second main surface 149, and the apex 156 of each wedge 152 can extend into a plane. In some embodiments, two or more wedges 152 can each include an inclined surface 154, which is inclined at different intervals or exhibits different curvatures.

[0037] Now for reference Figure 6A and 6B The optical element 222 is shown according to the third configuration. Unless otherwise specified, the optical element 222 may be incorporated at least into Figure 1The optical element 222 may include features, elements, and materials similar to those described herein, as well as those in other constructions. More specifically, the optical element 222 includes a first main surface 248 facing the illumination source 20 and a second main surface 249 facing away from the illumination source 20. The first main surface 248 defines at least one refractive element 250. The at least one refractive element 250 may include a plurality of wedges 252 arranged diagonally to, for example, Figure 6A The arrows indicate the diagonal (i.e., both horizontal and vertical) directions in which the illumination light from the illumination source 20 is redirected and uniformly diffused. More specifically, each of the wedges 252 may include an inclined surface 254 extending diagonally outward from the first main surface 248 to a apex 256, and a cliff portion 258 extending from the apex 256 to the adjacent wedge 252. In some embodiments, the inclined surface 254 of the wedge 252 is curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse the illumination light. The apex 256 may also be curved (e.g., defined by a radius), and the cliff portion 258 may be angled from the apex 256 toward or away from the inclined surface 254. Each wedge 252 extends across the first main surface 248 (e.g., linearly) in a direction between a top side 260 and a bottom side 262. Optical elements 222 (e.g., top side 260 and bottom side 262) are positioned at an angle to the illumination source 20. In some embodiments, each wedge 252 extends across the first main surface 248 (e.g., linearly) at an angle between the top side 260 and the bottom side 262, and the top side 260 and the bottom side 262 are parallel to the top and bottom edges of the optical element 22. The optical element 222 may be tapered, such that one side 260, 262 is thicker than the other side 260, 262 (“T”) to further bend light in a diagonal direction. In some embodiments, the top side 260 is thinner than the bottom side 262. In this way, the tapered orientation can further bend light in a diagonally downward and rightward direction, such as... Figure 6B As indicated by the arrows in the diagram. In some embodiments, the cone may be on a first main surface 248, and the second main surface 249 may be generally planar. In some embodiments, one of the main surfaces 248, 249 (e.g., the second main surface 249) may be curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse illumination light. In some embodiments, the cone may be on the second main surface 249, and the apex 256 of each wedge 252 may extend into a plane. In some embodiments, two or more wedges 252 may each include an inclined surface 254, which is inclined at different intervals or exhibits different curvatures. In some embodiments, the cone may be diagonally oriented.

[0038] Now for reference Figure 7A and 7BThe fourth configuration shows optical element 322. Unless otherwise specified, optical element 322 may be incorporated at least into Figure 1 The optical element 322 may include features, elements, and materials similar to those described herein. More specifically, the optical element 322 includes a first main surface 348 facing the illumination source 20 and a second main surface 349 facing away from the illumination source 20. The first main surface 348 and the second main surface 349 each define at least one refractive element 350. More specifically, the at least one refractive element 350 on the first main surface 348 includes a plurality of vertically arranged wedges 352 to redirect and uniformly diffuse illumination light from the illumination source 20 in the horizontal direction. The at least one refractive element 350 on the second main surface 349 includes a plurality of horizontally arranged wedges 352 to redirect illumination light from the illumination source 20 in the vertical direction. Each of the wedges 352 may include an inclined surface 354 extending outward from the first main surface 348 to a apex 356, and a cliff portion 358 may extend from the apex 356 to the adjacent wedge 352. In some embodiments, the inclined surface 354 of the wedge 352 is curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse the illumination light. The apex 356 may also be curved (e.g., defined by a radius), and the cliff portion 358 may be angled from the apex 356 toward or away from the inclined surface 354. Each wedge 352 on the first main surface 348 extends across the first main surface 348 (e.g., linearly) from the top side 360 ​​to the bottom side 362 of the optical element 322. On the other hand, each wedge 352 on the second main surface 349 extends across the first main surface 348 (e.g., linearly) from the right side 364 to the left side 366 of the optical element 322. In this way, as the illumination light passes through the first main surface 348, the illumination light is redirected and uniformly diffused in the horizontal direction, and then as the illumination light passes through the second main surface 349, the illumination light is redirected and uniformly diffused in the vertical direction, as... Figure 7A and 7B As indicated by the arrows in the diagram. It should be understood, or, alternatively, that the fourth configuration can be more generally described as having a first main surface 348 and a second main surface 349, the first main surface having a refractive element 350, and the second main surface having a refractive element 350 perpendicular to the refractive element 350 on the first main surface 348. In some embodiments, the wedge 352 on the first main surface 348 and / or the wedge 352 on the second main surface 349 may be angled relative to sides 360, 362, 364, 366, such that light bends diagonally, for example, similar to... Figure 6A and 6B The configuration in the figure. In some embodiments, two or more wedges 352 may include inclined surfaces 354, each inclined at different intervals or exhibiting different curvatures.

[0039] Now for reference Figure 4A-7B The spacing, curvature, size, and extension (e.g., horizontal, vertical, and / or diagonal) of the wedges 52, 152, 252, and 352 affect the redirection of light from the illumination source 20. Similarly, varying thickness T can further influence the redirection of light from the illumination source 20. Additionally, the number of wedges 52, 152, 252, and 352 affects the diffusion of light from the illumination source 20. In this way, the diffusion and redirection of light can be controlled to focus light onto an area of ​​the vehicle 26 and / or other structures of interest (e.g., occupant position 24).

[0040] Now for reference Figure 8A and 8B The fifth configuration shows optical element 422. Unless otherwise specified, optical element 422 may be incorporated at least into Figure 1 The optical element 422 may include features, elements, and materials similar to those described herein, as well as those in other constructions. More specifically, the optical element 422 includes a first main surface 448 facing the illumination source 20 and a second main surface 449 facing away from the illumination source 20. The first main surface 448 defines at least one refractive element 450. The at least one refractive element 450 may include a plurality of wedges 452 arranged in a tower-like grid pattern to... Figure 8BThe arrows indicate the diagonal (i.e., both horizontal and vertical) directions in which the illumination light from the illumination source 20 is redirected and uniformly diffused. More specifically, each of the wedges 452 may include a diagonal inclined surface 454 extending outward from the first main surface 448 along a diagonal direction to a vertex 456, and a cliff portion 458 may extend from the vertex 456 to the adjacent wedge 452. Each wedge 452 extends only partially across the first main surface 448 in a tower-like grid pattern. In some embodiments, the inclined surface 454 of the wedge 452 is curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse the illumination light. The vertex 456 may also be curved (e.g., defined by a radius), and the cliff portion 458 may be angled from the vertex 456 toward or away from the inclined surface 454. Optical element 422 may be tapered, such that one of the top side 460, bottom side 462, right side 464, or left side 466 is thicker (“T”) than the opposite sides 460, 462, 464, 466 to further bend light in one direction (e.g., diagonally, horizontally, or vertically). In some embodiments, the tapering may be on a first main surface 448, and the second main surface 449 may be generally planar. In some embodiments, one of the main surfaces 448, 449 (e.g., the second main surface 449) may be curved (e.g., concave or convex) to focus or diffuse illumination light. In some embodiments, the tapering may be on the second main surface 449, and the apex 456 of each wedge 452 may extend into a plane. In some embodiments, at least two of the wedges 452 each include inclined surfaces 454 extending in different directions, inclined at different intervals, and / or exhibiting different curvatures.

[0041] Now for reference Figure 9 The sixth configuration shows optical element 522. Unless otherwise specified, optical element 522 may be incorporated at least into Figure 1The optical element 522 may include features, elements, and materials similar to those described herein in the structures described herein. More specifically, the optical element 522 includes a first main surface 548 facing the illumination source 20 and a second main surface 549 facing away from the illumination source 20. The optical element 522 may be tapered, such that one of the top side 560, bottom side 562, right side 564, or left side 566 is thicker (“T”) than the opposite sides 560, 562, 564, 566 to redirect light in one direction (e.g., diagonally, horizontally, or vertically). In some embodiments, the tapering may be on the first main surface 548, and the second main surface 549 may be generally planar. In some embodiments, one of the main surfaces 548, 549 (e.g., the second main surface 549) may be curved (e.g., concave or convex) to concentrate or diffuse the illumination light. In some embodiments, the cone may be on the second main surface 549 and may be generally planar or curved (e.g., convex or concave). The fifth configuration may not include any wedge-shaped elements. In some embodiments, the cone may be diagonally oriented.

[0042] Now for reference Figure 1-9 In each of the configurations shown, optical elements 22, 122, 222, 322, 422, and 522 can be formed of a material configured to transmit infrared light. For example, the material may include at least one of polycarbonate, silicon, or acrylic. The material may further include additives configured to absorb light outside the infrared spectrum. For example, the additives may include dyes, dye pellets, and / or films that absorb wavelengths outside the infrared spectrum. In this way, optical elements 22, 122, 222, 322, 422, and 522 can be substantially opaque outside the illumination spectrum (e.g., infrared or near-infrared) to reduce and / or prevent red glow of the illumination light. The monitoring system 16 and the transmission element 30 (e.g., an electro-activated electro-optic medium 33) can operate on a single PCB (e.g., a first PCB 14 or a second PCB 15). Referring now... Figure 4A-8B Wedges 52, 152, 252, 352, and 452 can be provided to reduce the overall thickness T of optical elements 22, 122, 222, 322, and 422, based on the principle of Fresnel lenses. More specifically, wedges 52, 152, 252, 352, and 452 divide optical elements 22, 122, 222, 322, and 422 into multiple segments. In some embodiments, wedges 52, 152, 252, 352, and 452 are uniform to simplify manufacturing.

[0043] It should also be understood that this disclosure is not strictly limited to the various configurations of the optical elements 22, 122, 222, 322, 422, 522 described herein. For example, in some embodiments, the wedge pattern ( Figure 4A-6B (and 8A) can be located on the second main surface instead of the first main surface. Similarly, various additional configurations can be implemented, including a first main surface having one of the wedge-shaped patterns ( Figure 4A-6B and 8A) and a second main surface having the same or different one of the wedge-shaped patterns ( Figure 4A-6B (and 8A). Additionally, the cone shape of thickness T can be modified in any of the aforementioned configurations (e.g., diagonally, horizontally, or vertically) to redirect light as needed in diagonal (e.g., up and left, down and left, up and right, down and right), horizontal (e.g., left or right), or vertical (e.g., up or down) directions. The cone shape can be located on the first main surfaces 48, 148, 248, 348, 448, and 548 or the second main surfaces 49, 149, 249, 349, 449, and 549. It should be understood that light will be directed in the direction of the thicker portion of the cone and / or wedge 52, 152, 252, 352, and 448. Therefore, various configurations can be defined as having a first wedge pattern on a first main surface, the first wedge pattern being configured to uniformly redirect and diffuse light in a diagonal (e.g., up and left, down and left, up and right, down and right), horizontal (e.g., left or right), or vertical (e.g., up or down) direction. Similarly, various configurations can be defined as having a second wedge pattern on a second main surface, the second wedge pattern being configured to uniformly redirect and diffuse light in a diagonal (e.g., up and left, down and left, up and right, down and right), horizontal (e.g., left or right), or vertical (e.g., up or down) direction. Generally, the light will be oriented in the direction of the apex of the wedge. In some embodiments, various configurations may include a first wedge pattern on a first main surface, a second wedge pattern on a second main surface, and a cone in a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal direction. In some embodiments, various configurations may include a wedge pattern on a first main surface, a flat second main surface, and a cone. In some embodiments, various configurations may include a flat first main surface, a wedge pattern on a second main surface, and a cone as described herein. In some embodiments, various configurations may include a cone on the first and / or second main surface.

[0044] The disclosure of this article is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized as any and all of the various aspects described herein.

[0045] According to one aspect, the rearview mirror assembly includes a housing and a printed circuit board (PCB) located within the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a monitoring system comprising an image capture module, a light source connected to the PCB, and optical elements aligned with the light source. The optical elements are configured to redirect and diffuse illumination light from the light source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle.

[0046] On the other hand, the image capture module is located inside the housing.

[0047] According to another aspect, the connecting body connects the optical elements to the PCB in a distance from the lighting source.

[0048] According to another aspect, the connecting body includes a pair of pins extending from the optical element to the PCB.

[0049] According to another aspect, the connecting body includes a pair of clamps extending from the optical element to the PCB.

[0050] According to another aspect, the optical element includes a first main surface facing the illumination source and a second main surface facing away from the illumination source.

[0051] According to another aspect, the first primary surface of the optical element defines at least one refractive element.

[0052] According to another aspect, at least one refractive element includes a plurality of vertically arranged wedges to redirect and diffuse illumination light in the horizontal direction.

[0053] According to another aspect, at least one refractive element includes a plurality of horizontally arranged wedges to redirect and diffuse illumination light in the vertical direction.

[0054] According to another aspect, at least one refractive element includes a plurality of diagonally arranged wedges to redirect and diffuse illumination light in both the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0055] According to another aspect, the transmission element is located in the housing and allows the illumination light to be transmitted through it and into the vehicle, and the second main surface of the optical element is directly bonded to the transmission element.

[0056] According to another aspect, at least one refractive element includes a first plurality of wedges arranged in at least one of vertical or horizontal orientation, and a second main surface defines at least one second refractive element, the at least one second refractive element including a second plurality of wedges arranged perpendicular to the first plurality of wedges on the first main surface.

[0057] According to another aspect, the optical element is formed from at least one of polycarbonate, silicon, or acrylic acid.

[0058] According to another aspect, the optical element includes at least one additive configured to absorb light outside the infrared spectrum.

[0059] On the other hand, the lighting source is configured to transmit infrared light.

[0060] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a rearview mirror assembly includes a housing, a transmissive element at least partially located within the housing, and a printed circuit board (PCB) located within the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a monitoring system comprising an image capture module, an illumination source connected to the PCB, and optical elements aligned with the illumination source, the optical elements including a plurality of wedges each extending to a vertex. The plurality of wedges are configured to redirect and diffuse illumination light from the illumination source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle.

[0061] According to another aspect, the plurality of wedges are arranged in a tower-like grid pattern.

[0062] According to another aspect, the connecting body connects the optical elements to the PCB in a distance from the lighting source.

[0063] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a rearview mirror assembly includes a housing and a printed circuit board (PCB) located within the housing. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a monitoring system comprising an image capture module, an illumination source connected to the PCB, and optical elements aligned with the illumination source. The optical elements are configured to redirect and diffuse illumination light from the illumination source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle. A connecting body connects the optical elements at a distance from the illumination source.

[0064] On the other hand, the connection body is configured to connect the optical element to one of the PCB, housing, or transmission element.

[0065] Those skilled in the art will understand that the construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any particular material. Unless otherwise described herein, other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials.

[0066] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, including couple, coupling, etc.) generally means the direct or indirect engagement of two (electrical or mechanical) components with each other. Such engagement can be static or movable in nature. Such engagement can be achieved using two (electrical or mechanical) components and any additional intermediate member that forms a single unit with or integrally with the two components. Unless otherwise stated, such engagement can be permanent in nature, or removable or detachable in nature.

[0067] It is also worth noting that the construction and arrangement of the elements of this disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments of the invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will readily appreciate that many modifications (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportion, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc. of various elements) are possible without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter. For example, an element shown as integrally formed may be constructed from multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed; the operation of the interface may be reversed or otherwise altered; the structure of the system and / or the length or width of components or connectors or other elements may be changed; and the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between elements may be changed. It should be noted that the elements and / or components of the system may be made of any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, and may be available in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of this invention.

[0068] It should be understood that any described process or step within a described process may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form a structure within the scope of this disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting.

[0069] It should also be understood that changes and modifications may be made to the above structures and methods without departing from the concepts of this disclosure, and it should also be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the appended claims unless the wording of those claims expressly states otherwise.

Claims

1. A rearview mirror assembly, comprising: case; A printed circuit board (PCB) is located within the housing; The surveillance system includes: Image capture module; A lighting source, which is connected to the printed circuit board; and An optical element extending between a first side and a second side and aligned with a light source, the optical element comprising a plurality of wedges extending linearly between the first side and the second side, each of the plurality of wedges comprising an inclined surface extending from a bottom edge to a apex in a curved profile, and each of the plurality of wedges defining a cliff portion extending from the apex to an adjacent wedge, and the optical element comprising a first main surface facing the light source and a second main surface facing away from the light source, and the plurality of wedges being located on the first main surface, the optical element being configured to allow illumination light from the light source to pass through the first main surface and the second main surface, and to redirect and diffuse illumination light from the light source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle.

2. The rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of wedge-shaped members are evenly spaced between the first side and the second side.

3. The rearview mirror assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a connecting body directly connected to the optical element and the printed circuit board, the printed circuit board being spaced apart from the lighting source.

4. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 3, wherein the connecting body includes a pair of pins extending from a pair of apertures of the optical element to the printed circuit board.

5. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 3, wherein the connecting body includes a pair of pins extending from a pair of apertures on the printed circuit board to the optical element.

6. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of wedge-shaped members extend substantially across the entire first main surface between the first side and the second side.

7. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 6, wherein the plurality of wedges are arranged vertically relative to the lighting source and the housing to redirect and diffuse the lighting light in a horizontal direction relative to the housing.

8. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 6, wherein the plurality of wedges are arranged horizontally relative to the lighting source and the housing to redirect and diffuse the lighting light in the vertical direction relative to the housing.

9. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 6, wherein the plurality of wedges are arranged diagonally relative to the lighting source and the housing to redirect and diffuse the lighting light relative to the housing in both the horizontal and vertical directions.

10. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 6, wherein the plurality of wedges comprises a first plurality of wedges and a second plurality of wedges, the first plurality of wedges being arranged on the first main surface in at least one of a vertical or horizontal orientation for redirecting illumination light in a first direction, and the second plurality of wedges being arranged on the second main surface perpendicular to the first plurality of wedges on the first main surface for redirecting illumination light in a second direction other than the first direction.

11. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 1, wherein the curved profile of each inclined surface has the same orientation.

12. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 1, wherein the optical element is formed of at least one of polycarbonate, silicon, or acrylic acid.

13. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 12, wherein the optical element comprises at least one additive configured to absorb light outside the infrared spectrum.

14. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 13, wherein the illumination source is configured to transmit infrared light.

15. A rearview mirror assembly, comprising: case; A printed circuit board (PCB) is located within the housing; The surveillance system includes: Image capture module; A lighting source, which is connected to the printed circuit board; and An optical element aligned with the illumination source includes a first main surface facing the illumination source and a second main surface facing away from the illumination source, the second main surface being planar. The first main surface defines a plurality of wedges, each wedge including an inclined surface extending from a bottom edge to a apex. The optical element is configured to allow illumination light from the illumination source to pass through the first and second main surfaces, and the plurality of wedges are configured to redirect and diffuse the illumination light from the illumination source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle. At least one pin, the at least one pin extending directly between the printed circuit board and the optical element; and Each of the inclined surfaces of the plurality of wedges extends from the bottom edge to the apex with the same curved profile.

16. The rearview mirror assembly of claim 15, wherein at least one pin extends from an aperture defined by the printed circuit board to the optical element.

17. A rearview mirror assembly, comprising: case; A transmission element, which is at least partially located within the housing; A printed circuit board (PCB) is located within the housing; The surveillance system includes: Image capture module; A lighting source, which is connected to the printed circuit board; and An optical element aligned with the illumination source, the optical element being configured to redirect infrared illumination light from the illumination source and diffuse the infrared illumination light substantially uniformly toward an occupant's position in the vehicle; wherein the optical element includes a plurality of wedges, the plurality of wedges including inclined surfaces extending to apexes, and the optical element including a first main surface facing the illumination source and a second main surface facing away from the illumination source, and the plurality of wedges being located on the first main surface, wherein the optical element is configured to allow illumination light from the illumination source to pass through the first main surface and the second main surface, and the plurality of wedges are arranged in a tower-like grid pattern and configured to redirect and diffuse the illumination light from the illumination source toward an occupant's position in the vehicle.

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