Rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle and vehicle

Abstract

This invention discloses a rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle and a vehicle. The rearview mirror assembly includes a base disposed within the vehicle body, with a first track on the base; a camera movably mounted on the first track; a drive device movably mounted on the base, with a drive rod rotatably mounted on the drive device and linked to the camera; a first linkage member disposed between the drive rod and the camera, which, when rotated, drives the camera to reciprocate along the first track via the first linkage member; and / or a second linkage member disposed between the drive rod and the base, which, when rotated, drives the drive device to reciprocate relative to the base and, consequently, the camera, via the second linkage member. The rearview mirror assembly proposed in this invention allows the camera to be selectively extended or retracted into the vehicle body via the drive device, ensuring it is flush with the exterior of the vehicle and protecting the camera, thus improving safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle and the vehicle itself. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, foldable rearview mirrors are installed on both sides of the vehicle to protect them when the vehicle is locked. However, this still cannot prevent the rearview mirrors from being exposed outside the vehicle body and making them susceptible to external damage. Therefore, how to optimize the structure of vehicle rearview mirrors and improve their safety has become an urgent problem to be solved in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one object of this invention is to provide a rearview mirror assembly for vehicles. The rearview mirror assembly proposed in this invention uses a drive device to selectively extend or retract a camera into the vehicle body, ensuring it is flush with the exterior of the vehicle and protecting the camera, thereby improving safety.

[0004] The present invention also proposes a vehicle having the above-described rearview mirror assembly.

[0005] The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to the present invention includes: a base disposed within a vehicle body, the base having a first track; a camera movably disposed on the first track; a drive device movably disposed on the base, the drive device having a drive rod rotatably disposed thereon and linked to the camera; a first linkage member disposed between the drive rod and the camera, the drive rod, when rotated, driving the camera to reciprocate along the first track via the first linkage member; and / or a second linkage member disposed between the drive rod and the base, the drive rod, when rotated, driving the drive device to reciprocate relative to the base via the second linkage member, and driving the camera to reciprocate.

[0006] The rearview mirror assembly according to the present invention reduces the overall vehicle cost by replacing the rearview mirror fixed outside the vehicle with an extendable and retractable camera mounted on the vehicle body. After the vehicle is locked, the camera can be retracted into the vehicle body for concealment, ensuring a smoother overall vehicle design. Furthermore, concealing the camera within the vehicle body protects it from water and dust, and prevents it from being scratched by external objects.

[0007] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first linkage includes: a first rod, one end of which is hinged to the camera, and the other end of which is hinged to one end of the drive rod; the drive rod rotates and increases the angle between the drive rod and the first rod to push the camera to the outer surface of the vehicle body, and the drive rod rotates and decreases the angle between the drive rod and the first rod to retract the camera; and / or the second linkage includes: a second rod, one end of which is hinged to the base, and the other end of which is hinged to the other end of the drive rod; the drive rod rotates and increases the angle between the drive rod and the second rod to push the drive device away from the second rod and push the camera out; the drive rod rotates and decreases the angle between the drive rod and the second rod to pull the drive device closer to the second rod and retract the camera.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rearview mirror assembly further includes: a second track, the second track extending in the same direction as the first track and spaced apart from the first track on the base, and the driving device being movably disposed on the second track.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a clearance groove is formed on one of the drive rod and the first rod, and when the camera is retracted into the vehicle body, the drive rod and the other of the first rod are received in the clearance groove.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first rod and the second rod are staggered in the extension direction of the pivot axis of the drive rod.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the drive rod includes: a drive rod body; a bent section disposed at the end of the drive rod body and hinged to the second rod, the bent section and the drive rod body defining the clearance groove in a direction away from the pivot axis.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the extension direction of the pivot shaft is orthogonal to the vehicle body height direction.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rearview mirror assembly further includes: a fixing bracket disposed on the base and extending in the height direction, wherein a mounting groove is formed at the end of the fixing bracket and opening in the height direction, and the end of the second rod is received in the mounting groove and hinged to the fixing bracket.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the camera has an unfolded state and a retracted state. In the unfolded state, the camera extends to the outside of the vehicle body, and in the retracted state, the camera is housed inside the vehicle body. The rearview mirror assembly further includes a detection device disposed on the base and adapted to detect the position state of the camera. The detection device is adapted to control the driving device to stop driving when the camera reaches the unfolded state or the retracted state.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the detection device includes: a first micro switch disposed on the base and electrically connected to the driving device, the first micro switch being adapted to control the driving device to stop driving when the camera reaches the unfolded state; and a second micro switch disposed on the base and electrically connected to the driving device, the second micro switch being adapted to control the driving device to stop driving when the camera reaches the retracted state.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rearview mirror assembly further includes: a first limiting portion disposed on the camera, the first limiting portion being adapted to abut against the inner surface of the vehicle body when the camera reaches the unfolded state to limit the extension length of the camera; and a second limiting portion disposed on the base, the second limiting portion being adapted to abut against the camera when the camera reaches the retracted state to limit the movement distance of the camera on the base.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the positions of the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion are adjustable in the extension direction of the first track.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rearview mirror assembly further includes: a telescopic device disposed between the first rod and the drive rod and / or between the second rod and the drive rod, the telescopic device being adapted to extend or retract during rotation of the drive rod to push out or retract the camera.

[0019] The vehicle according to another embodiment of the present invention is briefly described below.

[0020] The vehicle according to the present invention includes a body and a rearview mirror assembly, the rearview mirror assembly being disposed within the body and configured as described in any of the above embodiments. Since the vehicle according to the present invention includes the rearview mirror assembly described in any of the above embodiments, the vehicle of the present invention, by using a camera instead of a rearview mirror, can retract the camera into the body for concealment, thereby protecting the camera, improving the safety of vehicle components, and reducing the overall vehicle cost.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the camera of the rearview mirror assembly includes: a camera bracket, the camera bracket being movably disposed on the base and connected to the first linkage member; a camera body, the camera body being rotatably disposed on the camera bracket, an overlapping edge being formed at one end of the camera body opposite to the camera bracket, and a mating groove being formed on the vehicle body facing the overlapping edge, the overlapping edge being adapted to abut against the inner wall of the mating groove to ensure that the outer surface of the vehicle body is flush.

[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a rearview mirror assembly according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rearview mirror assembly according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a rearview mirror assembly according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] Figure label:

[0028] Rearview mirror assembly 1;

[0029] Body 10, mating groove 101; base 11, first track 111, second track 112, fixing bracket 113, mounting groove 1131;

[0030] Camera 12, camera bracket 121, camera body 122, overlapping edge 123;

[0031] Drive device 13, drive rod 131, drive rod body 132, bent section 133, clearance groove 134, pivot shaft 135;

[0032] First shot 141, second shot 142;

[0033] First micro switch 151, second micro switch 152;

[0034] First limiting part 161, second limiting part 162. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0036] In related technologies, foldable rearview mirrors are installed on both sides of the vehicle to protect them when the vehicle is locked. However, this still cannot prevent the rearview mirrors from being exposed outside the vehicle body and making them susceptible to external damage. Therefore, how to optimize the structure of vehicle rearview mirrors and improve their safety has become an urgent problem to be solved in this field.

[0037] The following is for reference. Figures 1-3 A rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0038] The rearview mirror assembly 1 for a vehicle according to the present invention includes: a base 11 disposed within a vehicle body 10, wherein a first track 111 is provided on the base 11; a camera 12 movably disposed on the first track 111; a drive device 13 movably disposed on the base 11, wherein a drive rod 131 linked to the camera 12 is rotatably disposed on the drive device 13; a first linkage member disposed between the drive rod 131 and the camera 12, wherein when the drive rod 131 rotates, it drives the camera 12 to reciprocate on the first track 111 via the first linkage member; and / or a second linkage member disposed between the drive rod 131 and the base 11, wherein when the drive rod 131 rotates, it drives the drive device 13 to reciprocate relative to the base 11 via the second linkage member, and drives the camera 12 to reciprocate.

[0039] Specifically, a base 11 is provided inside the vehicle body 10, which can be a fender or an outer door panel. A retractable camera 12 is installed on the fender or outer door panel of the vehicle body 10, replacing the rearview mirror. This reduces the A-pillar obstruction angle, expands the forward field of vision, and improves safety. A first track 111 is provided on the base 11, and the camera 12 is movably mounted on the first track 111. This allows the camera 12 to be either extended outside the vehicle body 10 or retracted inside the vehicle body 10 for concealment. When the user needs to observe the outside situation during driving, the camera 12 can be extended outside the vehicle body 10. After locking the vehicle, the camera 12 can be retracted inside the vehicle body 10 for concealment. This not only protects the camera 12 from water and dust, but also prevents it from being scratched and allows pedestrians to pass easily around the vehicle.

[0040] A drive device 13 is provided on the base 11. The drive device 13 can be configured as a drive motor. A rotatable drive rod 131 is provided on the drive device 13. The drive rod 131 rotates and is linked with the camera 12, thereby driving the camera 12 to move back and forth along the first track 111. A first linkage member and / or a second linkage member are provided on the base 11. The first linkage member and the second linkage member can be provided separately on the base 11, or the first linkage member and the second linkage member can be provided simultaneously on the base 11. For example, a first linkage can be separately installed on the base 11, positioned between the camera 12 and the drive rod 131. When the drive rod 131 rotates, it can extend or shorten the first linkage, or by changing the direction of movement of the first linkage, the first linkage can push or pull the camera 12 to reciprocate along the first track 111. Alternatively, a second linkage can be separately installed on the base 11, positioned between the drive rod 131 and the base 11. The camera 12 is connected to the drive device 13. When the drive rod 131 rotates, by changing the length or direction of movement of the second linkage, the second linkage can push or pull the drive device 13 to move, thereby causing the camera 12 to reciprocate along the first track 111. Of course, both the first and second linkages can be simultaneously installed on the base 11 and cooperate with the drive rod 131 respectively to improve the movement efficiency of the camera 12.

[0041] The rearview mirror assembly 1 according to the present invention reduces the overall vehicle cost by providing an extendable and retractable camera 12 on the vehicle body 10 instead of a rearview mirror fixed outside the vehicle. After the vehicle is locked, the camera 12 can be retracted into the vehicle body 10 for hiding, ensuring a smoother overall vehicle shape. Furthermore, hiding the camera 12 inside the vehicle body 10 can protect the camera 12, providing waterproof and dustproof protection and preventing the camera 12 from being scratched by the outside.

[0042] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first linkage includes: a first rod 141, one end of which is hinged to the camera 12, and the other end of which is hinged to one end of the drive rod 131. The drive rod 131 rotates and increases the angle between the drive rod 131 and the first rod 141 to push the camera 12 to the outer surface of the vehicle body 10, and the drive rod 131 rotates and decreases the angle between the drive rod 131 and the first rod 141 to retract the camera 12; and / or the second linkage includes: a second rod 142, one end of which is hinged to the base 11, and the other end of which is hinged to the other end of the drive rod 131. The drive rod 131 rotates and increases the angle between the drive rod 131 and the second rod 142 to push the drive device 13 away from the second rod 142 and push the camera 12 out, and the drive rod 131 rotates and decreases the angle between the drive rod 131 and the second rod 142 to pull the drive device 13 closer to the second rod 142 and retract the camera 12.

[0043] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, one end of the first rod 141 is hinged to the camera 12, and the other end of the first rod 141 is hinged to the drive rod 131. By rotating the drive rod 131, the angle between the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131, as well as the angle between the first rod 141 and the camera 12, can be adjusted. When the drive rod 131 rotates, the angle between the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131 increases, causing one end of the first rod 141 to move away from the drive rod 131 and the angle between the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131 to approach 180°. The first rod 141 pushes the camera 12 along the first track 111 away from the drive device 13 and towards the outside of the vehicle body 10. Similarly, when the drive rod 131 rotates, the angle between the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131 can be reduced, causing one end of the first rod 141 to move towards the drive rod 131 and pull the camera 12 back into the vehicle body 10 along the first track 111 to hide the camera 12 and prevent it from being exposed, thus ensuring a smooth overall vehicle design. The second rod 142 is disposed between the base 11 and the drive rod 131. One end of the second rod 142 is hinged to the base 11, and the other end is hinged to the drive rod 131. When the drive rod 131 rotates, the angle between the second rod 142 and the drive rod 131 increases, causing the drive device 13 to move away from the second rod 142 under the push of the second rod 142 and drive the camera 12 to extend outside the vehicle body 10. When the drive rod 131 rotates, the angle between the drive rod 131 and the second rod 142 decreases, causing the drive device 13 to move towards the second rod 142 under the drive of the second rod 142, and driving the camera 12 to retract into the vehicle body 10 along the first track 111 with the drive device 13. By rotating the drive rod 131 and cooperating with the first rod 141 and the second rod 142, the extension and retraction of the camera 12 are realized. The movement direction of the camera 12 is simple and convenient. The structure of the drive rod 131 and the second rod 142 is compact, reducing the space occupation and structural cost of the rearview mirror assembly 1.

[0044] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rearview mirror assembly 1 further includes: a second track 112, the extension direction of the second track 112 being the same as the extension direction of the first track 111 and being spaced apart from the first track 111 on the base 11, and a drive device 13 being movably disposed on the second track 112.

[0045] Specifically, a second track 112 is provided on the base 11, and the extension direction of the second track 112 is the same as that of the first track 111. The drive device 13 is movably disposed on the second track 112, and the camera 12 is movably disposed on the first track 111 and connected to the drive device 13. When the drive rod 131 and the second rod 142 cooperate, the drive rod 131 rotates to increase or decrease the angle between the second rod 142 and the drive rod 131. The second rod 142 pushes or pulls the drive rod 131 to move back and forth along the second track 112, thereby driving the camera 12 to move back and forth along the first track 111, realizing the extension and retraction of the camera 12. The second track 112 and the first track 111 are spaced apart on the base 11, making the arrangement of the drive device 13 and the camera 12 more compact and reducing the space occupied by the rearview mirror assembly 1 on the vehicle body 10.

[0046] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a clearance groove 134 is formed on one of the drive rod 131 and the first rod 141, and when the camera 12 is retracted into the vehicle body 10, the other of the drive rod 131 and the first rod 141 is received in the clearance groove 134.

[0047] Specifically, the clearance groove 134 can be provided on the drive rod 131, such as Figures 1 to 3 As shown, when the drive rod 131 rotates and drives the first rod 141 to move, retracting the camera 12 into the body 10, the first rod 141 moves toward the drive rod 131 and into the clearance slot 134, so that at least a part of the first rod 141 is folded with the drive rod 131, reducing the space occupied by the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131. Similarly, the clearance slot 134 can also be set on the first rod 141. When the first rod 141 moves toward the drive rod 131, the clearance slot 134 avoids the drive rod 131, so that at least a part of the first rod 141 can be folded with the drive rod 131, making the storage of the first rod 141 and the second rod 142 more compact, reducing the space occupied by the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131.

[0048] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the first rod 141 and the second rod 142 are staggered in the extension direction of the pivot axis 135 of the drive rod 131.

[0049] Specifically, the first rod 141 and the second rod 142 are staggered in the extension direction of the pivot axis 135 of the drive rod 131. When the first rod 141 and the second rod 142 move toward the drive rod 131 respectively, it is ensured that the first rod 141 and the second rod 142 will not collide or interfere with each other, ensuring that the drive rod 131 rotates smoothly. Through the rotation of the drive rod 131, the first rod 141 and the second rod 142 can be folded and unfolded more smoothly in the extension direction of the pivot axis 135. The first rod 141 and the second rod 142 can be folded and stored in the extension direction of the pivot axis 135, making the storage structure of the first rod 141, the second rod 142 and the drive rod 131 more compact.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the drive rod 131 includes: a drive rod body 132; a bent section 133, the bent section 133 being disposed at the end of the drive rod body 132 and hinged to the second rod 142, the bent section 133 and the drive rod body 132 defining a clearance groove 134 in a direction away from the pivot axis 135.

[0051] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the drive rod 131 includes a drive rod body 132 and a bent section 133 connected to each other. The bent section 133 is disposed at the end of the drive rod body 132 and is adapted to be hinged to the second rod 142. A clearance groove 134 is defined between the bent section 133 and the drive rod body 132. When the camera 12 is retracted, at least a portion of the first rod 141 can be accommodated in the clearance groove 134, so that at least a portion of the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131 can be folded in the extension direction of the pivot axis 135, thereby avoiding interference or collision between the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131. This not only improves the compactness and space utilization efficiency between the drive rod 131 and the first rod 141, but also ensures the smoothness and reliability of the drive rod 131 and the first rod 141 during operation.

[0052] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the extension direction of the pivot shaft 135 is orthogonal to the height direction of the vehicle body 10.

[0053] Specifically, the extension direction of the pivot shaft 135 is orthogonal to the height direction of the vehicle body 10, indicating that the extension direction of the pivot shaft 135 is horizontal. This facilitates the arrangement of the drive device 13 on the vehicle body 10. The drive rod 131 rotates around the pivot shaft 135, allowing the drive rod 131 to rotate along the height direction of the vehicle body 10, which is the same as the extension direction of the vehicle body 10. This makes the rotation space of the pivot shaft 135 larger. At the same time, it also facilitates the staggered arrangement of the first rod 141 and the second rod 142 in the extension direction of the pivot shaft 135, making the arrangement of the first rod 141 and the second rod 142 more compact and reducing the space occupied by the rearview mirror assembly 1 on the vehicle body 10.

[0054] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rearview mirror assembly 1 further includes: a fixing bracket 113, which is disposed on the base 11 and extends in the height direction, and a mounting groove 1131 that opens in the height direction is formed at the end of the fixing bracket 113, and the end of the second rod 142 is received in the mounting groove 1131 and hinged to the fixing bracket 113.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, a fixed bracket 113 extending along the height direction is provided on the base 11. At the end of the fixed bracket 113, a mounting groove 1131 opening in the height direction is formed. The end of the second rod 142 is received in the mounting groove 1131 and hinged to the fixed bracket 113. With the support of the fixed bracket 113, the second rod 142 can be more stable when rotating, and is less prone to shaking or displacement. It also reduces the installation difficulty of the second rod 142. It is only necessary to insert the end of the second rod 142 into the mounting groove 1131 and fix it to the fixed bracket 113 by hinge, thus saving the installation and maintenance costs of the second rod 142.

[0056] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the camera 12 has an unfolded state and a retracted state. In the unfolded state, the camera 12 extends to the outside of the vehicle body 10, and in the retracted state, the camera 12 is housed inside the vehicle body 10. The rearview mirror assembly 1 further includes a detection device, which is disposed on the base 11 and adapted to detect the position state of the camera 12. The detection device is adapted to control the drive device 13 to stop driving when the camera 12 reaches the unfolded state or the retracted state.

[0057] Specifically, the camera 12 has an extended state and a retracted state. In the extended state, the camera 12 extends outside the vehicle body 10, providing the driver with a clear view. In the retracted state, the camera 12 is housed inside the vehicle body 10 to reduce its impact on the vehicle's appearance and protect it from damage by the external environment. To ensure that the camera 12 can accurately switch between the extended and retracted states and stop driving when these states are reached to avoid unnecessary wear or damage, a detection device is provided on the base 11. The detection device is suitable for detecting the position of the camera 12. The detection device can monitor the position of the camera 12 in real time using sensors (such as position sensors, photoelectric sensors, etc.). The detection device is electrically connected to the drive unit 13. When the detection device detects that the camera 12 has reached the extended or retracted state, it sends a stop signal to the drive unit 13 to control the drive unit 13 to stop driving. This not only protects the camera 12 and the drive unit 13 but also improves the reliability and durability of the entire rearview mirror assembly 1. By installing a detection device on the base 11 to detect the position and status of the camera 12, the vehicle rearview mirror assembly 1 becomes more intelligent and automated. Through real-time monitoring and control of the position and status of the camera 12 by the detection device, it can be ensured that the camera 12 can accurately extend to the outside of the vehicle body 10 to provide a field of view when needed, and can be smoothly housed inside the vehicle body 10 for protection when not needed.

[0058] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the detection device includes: a first micro switch 151, which is disposed on the base 11 and electrically connected to the driving device 13, and is adapted to control the driving device 13 to stop driving when the camera 12 reaches the unfolded state; and a second micro switch 152, which is disposed on the base 11 and electrically connected to the driving device 13, and is adapted to control the driving device 13 to stop driving when the camera 12 reaches the retracted state.

[0059] Specifically, the detection device uses a first micro switch 151 and a second micro switch 152 to detect and control the position of the camera 12. The first micro switch 151 is located on the side closer to the vehicle body 10 and is electrically connected to the drive device 13. When the camera 12 reaches the extended state, the first micro switch 151 is triggered and sends a stop signal to the drive device 13, controlling the drive device 13 to stop driving. This ensures that the camera 12 will not continue to move after being fully extended, maintaining a stable field of view and preventing the camera 12 from overextending. The second micro switch 152 is located on the side farther from the vehicle body 10 and is electrically connected to the drive device 13. When the camera 12 reaches the retracted state, the second micro switch 152 is triggered and sends a stop signal to the drive device 13, controlling the drive device 13 to stop driving. This ensures that the camera 12 will not continue to move after being fully retracted, avoiding unnecessary interference or damage to the interior of the vehicle body 10. With precise control of the first micro switch 151 and the second micro switch 152, it can be ensured that the camera 12 can accurately stop driving when switching between the unfolded state and the retracted state, thereby improving the stability and durability of the entire rearview mirror assembly 1.

[0060] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rearview mirror assembly 1 further includes: a first limiting part 161, which is disposed on the camera 12 and is adapted to abut against the inner surface of the vehicle body 10 when the camera 12 is in the unfolded state to limit the extension length of the camera 12; and a second limiting part 162, which is disposed on the base 11 and is adapted to abut against the camera 12 when the camera 12 is in the retracted state to limit the movement distance of the camera 12 on the base 11.

[0061] Specifically, a first limiting part 161 is disposed on the camera 12. When the camera 12 is in the unfolded state, the first limiting part 161 abuts against the inner surface of the vehicle body 10. The extension length of the camera 12 is limited by the first limiting part 161 and the inner surface of the vehicle body 10, ensuring that the camera 12 does not extend excessively beyond the predetermined field of view. A second limiting part 162 is disposed on the base 11. When the camera 12 is in the retracted state, the second limiting part 162 abuts against the camera 12. The movement distance of the camera 12 on the base 11 is limited by the second limiting part 162, ensuring that the camera 12 can be smoothly housed in the predetermined position and will not be damaged due to excessive movement. Through the combined action of the first limiting part 161 and the second limiting part 162, it is ensured that the camera 12 remains in a suitable position and range when switching between the unfolded and retracted states, thereby providing the driver with a safer, more comfortable, and more convenient driving experience.

[0062] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the position of the first limiting part 161 and the position of the second limiting part 162 are adjustable in the extension direction of the first track 111.

[0063] Specifically, by adjusting the position of the first limiting part 161, the extension length of the camera 12 in the unfolded state can be flexibly controlled to fine-tune the field of view of the camera 12, ensuring that it can provide the best field of view. The adjustability of the position of the first limiting part 161 also makes the rearview mirror assembly 1 more adaptable to different installation environments and conditions, improving its versatility and flexibility. By adjusting the position of the second limiting part 162, the position and movement distance of the camera 12 in the retracted state can be precisely controlled. This helps to ensure that the camera 12 can be smoothly housed in the predetermined position and will not be damaged or interfered with by other components due to excessive or insufficient movement distance. Bolts can be provided on the first limiting part 161 and the second limiting part 162 respectively. By turning the exposed length of the bolts, the distance between the first limiting part 161 and the vehicle body 10 and the distance between the second limiting part 162 and the camera 12 can be adjusted, making the adjustment simple and convenient.

[0064] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the rearview mirror assembly 1 further includes: a telescopic device disposed between the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131 and / or between the second rod 142 and the drive rod 131, the telescopic device being adapted to extend or retract during the rotation of the drive rod 131 to push out or retract the camera 12.

[0065] Specifically, by providing telescopic devices between the first rod 141 and the drive rod 131 and / or between the second rod 142 and the drive rod 131, the lengths of the first rod 141 and / or the second rod 142 can be adjusted when the drive rod 131 rotates. By extending or shortening the lengths of the first rod 141 and / or the second rod 142, the camera 12 can be extended or retracted, improving the flexibility of the extension and retraction positions. The telescopic device can be constructed as a gear and rack structure. Through the gear cooperating with the drive rod 131, the rotation of the drive rod 131 drives the movement of the gear and rack, realizing the length adjustment of the first rod 141 and the second rod 142. The telescopic device has a simple structure, which helps to reduce the overall cost.

[0066] The vehicle according to the present invention is briefly described below.

[0067] The vehicle according to the present invention includes a body 10 and a rearview mirror assembly 1, the rearview mirror assembly 1 being disposed within the body 10 and configured as described in any of the above embodiments. Since the vehicle according to the present invention includes the rearview mirror assembly 1 as described in any of the above embodiments, the vehicle of the present invention, by using a camera 12 instead of a rearview mirror, can retract the camera 12 into the body 10 for concealment, thereby protecting the camera 12, improving the safety of vehicle components, and reducing the overall vehicle cost.

[0068] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the camera 12 of the rearview mirror assembly 1 includes: a camera bracket 121, which is movably disposed on the base 11 and connected to the first linkage member; a camera body 122, which is rotatably disposed on the camera bracket 121, and an overlapping edge 123 is formed at one end of the camera body 122 away from the camera bracket 121. A mating groove 101 is formed on the vehicle body 10 that is directly opposite to the overlapping edge 123. The overlapping edge 123 is adapted to abut against the inner wall of the mating groove 101 to ensure that the outer surface of the vehicle body 10 is flush.

[0069] Specifically, the camera bracket 121 is movably mounted on the base 11 and connected to the first linkage member, allowing the camera bracket 121 to move along the first track 111 under the drive of the first linkage member. This causes the camera body 122 to extend or retract into the vehicle body 10. The camera body 122 is rotatably mounted on the camera bracket 121. A drive motor can be installed between the camera body 122 and the camera bracket 121 to adjust the rotation angle of the camera body 122, increasing the flexibility of the camera 12's shooting angle adjustment and allowing the driver to adjust the camera 12's viewing angle as needed. An overlapping edge 123 is formed at the end of the camera body 122 facing away from the camera bracket 121. A mating groove 101 is provided on the vehicle body 10, directly opposite the overlapping edge 123. When the camera 12 retracts into the vehicle body 10, the overlapping edge 123 abuts against the inner wall of the mating groove 101, ensuring that the camera body 122 is flush with the outer surface of the vehicle body 10. This helps reduce wind resistance during vehicle operation and makes the vehicle's appearance cleaner.

[0070] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0071] In the description of this invention, "first feature" and "second feature" may include one or more of the features.

[0072] In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0073] In the description of this invention, the first feature being "above" or "below" the second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or it may include the first and second features not being in direct contact but being in contact through another feature between them.

[0074] In the description of this invention, the terms "above," "over," and "on top" for the first feature and the second feature include the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicating that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature.

[0075] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0076] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle, characterized by, include: A base (11) is disposed inside the vehicle body (10), and a first track (111) is disposed on the base (11); A camera (12) is movably mounted on the first track (111); A driving device (13) is movably disposed on the base (11), and a driving rod (131) that is linked with the camera (12) is rotatably disposed on the driving device (13). A first linkage is disposed between the drive rod (131) and the camera (12). When the drive rod (131) rotates, it drives the camera (12) to reciprocate on the first track (111) via the first linkage; and / or The second linkage is disposed between the drive rod (131) and the base (11). When the drive rod (131) rotates, it drives the drive device (13) to reciprocate relative to the base (11) through the second linkage, and drives the camera (12) to reciprocate.

2. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first linkage includes: a first rod (141), one end of which is hinged to the camera (12), and the other end of which is hinged to one end of the drive rod (131). The drive rod (131) rotates and increases the angle between the drive rod (131) and the first rod (141) to push the camera (12) to the outer surface of the vehicle body (10). The drive rod (131) also rotates and decreases the angle between the drive rod (131) and the first rod (141) to retract the camera (12); and / or The second linkage includes: a second rod (142), one end of which is hinged to the base (11), and the other end of which is hinged to the other end of the drive rod (131). The drive rod (131) rotates and increases the angle between the drive rod (131) and the second rod (142) to push the drive device (13) away from the second rod (142) and push out the camera (12). The drive rod (131) rotates and decreases the angle between the drive rod (131) and the second rod (142) to pull the drive device (13) closer to the second rod (142) and retract the camera (12).

3. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: The second track (112) extends in the same direction as the first track (111) and is spaced apart from the first track (111) on the base (11). The driving device (13) is movably disposed on the second track (112).

4. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that, A clearance groove (134) is formed on one of the drive rod (131) and the first rod (141). When the camera (12) is retracted into the vehicle body (10), the other of the drive rod (131) and the first rod (141) is received in the clearance groove (134).

5. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first rod (141) and the second rod (142) are staggered in the extension direction of the pivot axis (135) of the drive rod (131).

6. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 5, characterized in that, The drive rod (131) includes: Drive rod body (132); A bent section (133) is disposed at the end of the drive rod body (132) and hinged to the second rod (142). The bent section (133) and the drive rod body (132) define the clearance groove (134) in a direction away from the pivot axis (135).

7. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 6, characterized in that, The extension direction of the pivot shaft (135) is orthogonal to the height direction of the vehicle body (10).

8. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A fixed bracket (113) is disposed on the base (11) and extends along the height direction. A mounting groove (1131) is formed at the end of the fixed bracket (113) and opens in the height direction. The end of the second rod (142) is received in the mounting groove (1131) and hinged to the fixed bracket (113).

9. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that, The camera (12) has an unfolded state and a retracted state. In the unfolded state, the camera (12) extends to the outside of the vehicle body (10). In the retracted state, the camera (12) is housed inside the vehicle body (10). It also includes: a detection device, which is disposed on the base (11) and adapted to detect the position state of the camera (12), and the detection device is adapted to control the driving device (13) to stop driving when the camera (12) reaches the unfolded state or the retracted state.

10. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 9, characterized in that, The detection device includes: A first micro switch (151) is disposed on the base (11) and electrically connected to the drive device (13). The first micro switch (151) is adapted to control the drive device (13) to stop driving when the camera (12) reaches the unfolded state. A second micro switch (152) is disposed on the base (11) and electrically connected to the drive device (13). The second micro switch (152) is adapted to control the drive device (13) to stop driving when the camera (12) reaches the retracted state.

11. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 10, characterized in that, Also includes: A first limiting part (161) is disposed on the camera (12). The first limiting part (161) is adapted to abut against the inner surface of the vehicle body (10) when the camera (12) reaches the unfolded state to limit the extension length of the camera (12). A second limiting part (162) is disposed on the base (11). The second limiting part (162) is adapted to stop against the camera (12) when the camera (12) reaches the retracted state to limit the movement distance of the camera (12) on the base (11).

12. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 11, characterized in that, The positions of the first limiting part (161) and the second limiting part (162) are adjustable in the extension direction of the first track (111).

13. The rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A telescopic device is disposed between the first rod (141) and the drive rod (131) and / or between the second rod (142) and the drive rod (131), the telescopic device being adapted to extend or retract during rotation of the drive rod (131) to push out or retract the camera (12).

14. A vehicle, characterized in that, include: Body (10); A rearview mirror assembly disposed within the vehicle body (10) and configured as the rearview mirror assembly according to any one of claims 1-13.

15. The vehicle according to claim 14, characterized in that, The rearview mirror assembly includes a camera (12): A camera bracket (121) is movably mounted on the base (11) and connected to the first linkage member; A camera body (122) is rotatably mounted on a camera bracket (121). An overlapping edge (123) is formed at one end of the camera body (122) away from the camera bracket (121). A mating groove (101) is formed on the vehicle body (10) that is directly opposite to the overlapping edge (123). The overlapping edge (123) is adapted to abut against the inner wall of the mating groove (101) to ensure that the outer surface of the vehicle body (10) is flush.

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