Mirror assemblies for vehicles

Abstract

A mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an illumination module configured to illuminate a segment of the mirror assembly. An electro-optic assembly includes a front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface. The second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first electrode is coupled to the second surface, and a second electrode is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first and second electrodes. A power hub communicates with both the illumination module and the electro-optic assembly and provides power to both.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a mirror assembly having a lighting module, and more specifically, to a mirror assembly having a lighting module and one or more additional electrical components receiving power from a power hub shared with the lighting module. Background Technology

[0002] There are known mirror assemblies for vehicles. However, the development and improvement of mirror assemblies for vehicles has always been a goal in this field. Utility Model Content

[0003] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an illumination module configured to illuminate a section of the mirror assembly. A heating assembly includes heat conduction tracks. A printed circuit board (“PCB”) includes a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the illumination module and a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the heating assembly. A power hub is electrically coupled to the first and second conductive traces and provides power to both the illumination module and the heating assembly.

[0004] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an illumination module configured to illuminate a segment of the mirror assembly. An electro-optic assembly includes a front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface. The second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first electrode is coupled to the second surface, and a second electrode is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first and second electrodes. A printed circuit board (“PCB”) includes a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the illumination module and a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly. A power hub is electrically coupled to the first and second conductive traces and provides power to both the illumination module and the electro-optic assembly.

[0005] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an illumination module configured to illuminate a segment of the mirror assembly. An electro-optic assembly includes a front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface. The second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first electrode is coupled to the second surface, and a second electrode is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first and second electrodes. A heating assembly is configured to heat the mirror assembly. A printed circuit board (“PCB”) includes a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the illumination module, a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly, and a third conductive trace electrically coupled to the heating assembly. A power hub is electrically coupled to the first, second, and third conductive traces and provides power to each of the illumination module, the electro-optic assembly, and the heating assembly.

[0006] By referring to the following description, claims and drawings, those skilled in the art will further understand and appreciate these and other features, advantages and objectives of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0007] In the attached diagram: Figure 1 This is a top view of a vehicle with a mirror assembly according to aspects of this disclosure; Figure 2A This is an exploded view of the mirror assembly with a first construction and first arrangement according to aspects of this disclosure; Figure 2B The conductive traces on the PCB shown in this disclosure are from... Figure 2A A magnified view of the PCB; Figure 3A This is an exploded view of the mirror assembly with a first construction and a second arrangement according to aspects of this disclosure; Figure 3B The conductive traces on the PCB shown in this disclosure are from... Figure 3A A magnified view of the PCB; Figure 4A This is an exploded view of the mirror assembly according to the first construction and third arrangement of aspects of this disclosure; Figure 4B The conductive traces on the PCB shown in this disclosure are from... Figure 4A A magnified view of the PCB; Figure 5 These are cross-sectional views and partial schematic diagrams of the mirror assembly according to the first construction and third arrangement of this disclosure; Figure 6This is a front view of the mirror assembly according to the second construction and fourth arrangement of aspects of this disclosure; Figure 7 This is a front view of the mirror assembly according to the second construction and fifth arrangement of aspects of this disclosure; and Figure 8 This is a front view of the mirror assembly according to the second construction and sixth arrangement of aspects of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0008] The embodiments shown in this utility model primarily relate to a combination of method steps and device components associated with a mirror assembly having a lighting module and one or more additional electrical components receiving power from a power hub shared with the lighting module. 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. Further, the same numbers in the description and figures denote the same elements.

[0009] For the purposes described herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “back,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and their derivatives should be used interchangeably with those used in this document. Figure 1 The orientation of this disclosure is relevant to the intended viewpoint. Unless otherwise stated, the term "front" refers to the device surface closer to the intended observer of the device, and the term "rear" refers to the device surface farther from the intended observer of the device. However, it should be understood that various alternative orientations may be adopted in this disclosure, except as expressly specified otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the drawings and described in the following description are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts as 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.

[0010] The terms “comprising,” “including,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements may include not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed or not inherent to such process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus. Without further constraints, an element preceded by “comprising…” does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0011] refer to Figures 1 to 2B Reference numeral 10A generally denotes a mirror assembly for vehicle 12 according to a first configuration and arrangement. The mirror assembly 10A includes an illumination module 14. Figure 2A and 2BThe lighting module is configured to illuminate a section of the mirror assembly 10A. The heating assembly 22 includes conductive tracks 42 for generating heat. Alternatively, the heating assembly 22 may include a heat-generating material, such as a positive temperature coefficient (“PTC”) material. In a PTC material, heat is generated when current passes between high-voltage and low-voltage conductive heater tracks 42. The printed circuit board 26 (“PCB”) includes a first conductive track 28 electrically coupled to the lighting module 14 and a second conductive track 30 electrically coupled to the heating assembly 22. Figure 2B The power hub 32 is electrically coupled to the first conductive trace 28 and the second conductive trace 30, and provides power to both the lighting module 14 and the heating assembly 22. In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 30 includes a pair of conductive traces 28, 30 providing a closed-loop conduction path for the lighting module 14 and the heating assembly 22. In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 30 may include a single conductive trace 28, 30 providing power to the lighting module 14 and the heating assembly 22, and a separate and shared return trace (e.g., a ground trace).

[0012] Return to reference Figure 1The mirror assembly 10A can be incorporated into various structures. For example, the mirror assembly 10A can be incorporated into a rearview mirror 34 (e.g., a pair of rearview mirrors 34) for attachment to one or more sides of the vehicle 12. For example, the rearview mirror 34 may include a housing 36 and mounting members 38 that attach the housing 36 to the exterior 40 (e.g., side) of the vehicle 12. However, generally, the mirror assembly 10A can be incorporated into any other structure (e.g., an aircraft, a boat, an architecture, etc.) that includes two or more mirrors or windows having a heating system, electro-optical components, and / or accessories (e.g., a lighting module). The lighting module 14 is configured to illuminate through a section of the mirror assembly 10A. More specifically, the lighting module 14 can illuminate through the mirror assembly 10A to generate visual notifications of driving or environmental conditions. In some embodiments, the lighting module 14 can be configured to relay a turn signal indicator (e.g., by flashing illumination on either rearview mirror 34 in the direction in which the vehicle 12 will turn). In some embodiments, the lighting module 14 may be configured to relay an object already detected in a blind spot. For example, sensor 16 may be located elsewhere around vehicle 12 and configured to monitor the presence of object 18 in the vicinity of vehicle 12. Sensor 16 may be electrically coupled to communication module 20 (e.g., wired or wireless connection) to generate a signal to lighting module 14 to illuminate that segment of mirror assembly 10A when object 18 is identified in the blind spot of vehicle 12. In some embodiments, the lighting module 14 may be configured to illuminate portions of vehicle 12 and / or its surroundings under certain conditions. For example, lighting module 14 may be directed to illuminate the ground around vehicle 12 and function as a puddle light. In some embodiments, lighting module 14 may include two or more of the functions described above.

[0013] Now for reference Figure 2A and 2B The heating assembly 22 includes conductive tracks 42 (e.g., conductive traces) that distribute heat along a region of the heating assembly 22. More specifically, the heating assembly 22 includes an outer periphery 44, and the conductive tracks 42 extend along paths within the outer periphery 44, said paths covering a majority (e.g., 35% or more, 40% or more, 50% or more, 75% or more, or 75% or less) of the region defined by the outer periphery 44. The conductive tracks 42 extend between a first heating conductive terminal 46 and a second heating conductive terminal 48. The conductive tracks 42 may be a single track or may include multiple conductive paths. First conductive trace 28 and second conductive trace 30 ( Figure 2B Each can be electrically coupled to different of the first heating conduction terminal 46 and the second heating conduction terminal 48 via direct contact or conductive intermediate 31. The conductive intermediate 31 may include a connecting clip 82. Figure 2AThe conductive intermediate 31 may be located in a through-hole, and may include one or more of the following: conductive terminals, conductive terminals, conductive conductors of different types (e.g., wires, solder, compliant pins, conductive paste, conductive epoxy, conductive springs, conductive adhesives, etc.). In this way, a complete conductive loop (e.g., a heating loop) is formed along conductive track 42 and extends between PCB 26 and the second conductive trace 30. It should be understood that, unless otherwise expressly indicated, the mirror assembly 10A of the first construction and the first arrangement may share all the same features, materials, and functions, and be incorporated into the same structure as other constructions and arrangements described herein.

[0014] The lighting module 14 may include multiple light sources 50 electrically coupled to a first pair of conductive traces 28. The first conductive trace 28 ( Figure 2B The first conductive trace 28 can be connected to each of the light sources 50 and form a complete conductive loop extending between the power hub 32 and the light source 50. In some embodiments, the first conductive trace 28 can be configured to independently control a single light source 50, select a group of light sources 50 or each of the light sources 50. In some embodiments, the lighting module 14 includes optical elements, such as lenses, for focusing and directing the light projected from the light sources 50 to an area around the vehicle 12.

[0015] Now for reference Figure 2A and 5The mirror assembly 10A may include a glass element, such as a substrate having a reflective surface or coating. In some embodiments, the glass element is configured as an electro-optic assembly 52 (e.g., an electrochromic assembly) heated by a heating assembly 22. The electro-optic assembly 52 may switch between various degrees of transmissivity and / or reflectivity (i.e., semi-transmissive and semi-reflective). The electro-optic assembly 52 includes a front substrate 54 having a first surface 56 and a second surface 58 opposite to the first surface 56. A second substrate 60 has a third surface 62 and a fourth surface 64 opposite to the third surface 62. The second surface 58 and the third surface 62 face each other to define a gap 66. A first electrode 68 is coupled to the second surface 58, and a second electrode 70 is coupled to the third surface 62. An electro-optic medium 71 (e.g., an electrochromic medium) is located between the first electrode 68 and the second electrode 70. In some embodiments, the front substrate 54 may define a front surface or observation area of ​​the mirror assembly 10A. In other embodiments, an additional substrate (not shown) may be coupled to the front substrate 54 and define the observation area. The electro-optic medium 71 can be held within the gap 66 via a seal 72 extending along the periphery of the electro-optic assembly 52. ​​A first electrical bus 74 can be connected to a first electrode 68, and a second electrical bus 76 can be connected to a second electrode 70. More specifically, electrical buses 74 and 76 can supply current to electrodes 68 and 70. The first electrical bus 74 and the second electrical bus 76 can each be connected to a conductive clip 78, such as metal wound around the peripheral edge and onto a fourth surface of the electro-optic assembly 52. ​​The electro-optic assembly 52 in the first configuration and first arrangement of the mirror assembly 10A may not be connected via PCB 26. More specifically, the electro-optic assembly 52 can be controlled via independent electro-optic conductors 80 (or other types of conductors) electrically coupled to electrical buses 74 and 76 (e.g., via conductive clips 78) and wired through the mirror assembly 10A. For example, independent electro-optic conductors 80 can extend from the electro-optic assembly 52 and be wired through the housing 36 and mounting member 38 of the rearview mirror 34. The light source 50 is aligned with the electro-optic assembly 52 such that the light source illuminates through the electro-optic assembly. In some embodiments, a portion of the electro-optic assembly 52, such as the second electrode 70, may include an aperture 77 that provides an optical path for illumination from the light source 50 toward the region of interest and blocks illumination from other areas that do not require illumination. For example, a hidden layer (not shown) of an opaque ring or chromium ring may be located between the seal 72 and the front substrate 54.

[0016] Now for reference Figure 2A and 2BThe first heating conduction terminal 46 and the second heating conduction terminal 48 of the heating assembly 22 can be connected to the PCB 26 via a heating connector 82, which can be configured to pass through compliant pins, other types of contact pads, pins, contacts, wires, or contact springs on the PCB 26. The heating assembly 22 can define an aperture 83 located within an outer periphery 44, and components of the lighting module 14 are located on the PCB 26 and aligned with the aperture 83 to receive and / or transmit information therethrough. More specifically, the components may include a light source 50 aligned with apertures 83 and 77. The power hub 32 may include a pair of lighting module connection ports 84 and a pair of heating assembly connection ports 86. A pair of lighting module wires 88 can be connected to the lighting module connection ports 84, and a pair of heating assembly wires 90 can be connected to the heating assembly connection ports 86. A wiring harness 92 can be connected to the lighting module wires 88 and the heating assembly wires 90, and can act as an intermediary to electrically couple the lighting module wires 88 and the heating assembly wires 90 to the PCB 26, respectively.

[0017] Continue to refer to Figure 2A and 2B The mirror assembly 10A may include a cover 94 covering the lighting module 14 and the PCB 26. The cover 94 may include: a body portion 96 defining a recess for positioning the PCB 26 and the lighting module 14; and a head portion 98 defining a recess for positioning the wiring harness 92. The cover 94 may seal and protect the PCB 26 and the wiring harness 92 (e.g., power hub 32). For example, the body portion 96 may include a bottom edge 100 (e.g., with a flange) sealed (e.g., hermetically) to the heating assembly 22 (e.g., around the orifice 83) with an adhesive. The mirror assembly 10A may further include a carrier plate 102, and the heating assembly 22 may be sandwiched between the carrier plate 102 and the electro-optical assembly 52. ​​The carrier plate 102 may be used to position components of the mirror assembly 10A and connect the mirror assembly 10A to an integrated structure, such as the housing 36 of a rearview mirror 34. In some embodiments, the carrier plate 102 defines a PCB opening 104 aligned with the PCB 26 and the cover 94. The cover 94 may extend at least partially through the PCB opening 104. In some embodiments, at least a main body portion 96 of the cover 94 is transparent or translucent to allow illumination from the lighting module 14 to pass through it.

[0018] Now for reference Figure 3A and 3BThe diagram illustrates a mirror assembly 10B according to a first configuration and a second arrangement. Unless otherwise explicitly indicated, the mirror assemblies 10B of the first configuration and the second arrangement may share all the same features, materials, and functions, and are incorporated into the same structure as other configurations and arrangements described herein. More specifically, in the second arrangement, the heating assembly 22 does not receive power directly from the PCB 26, but rather from a pair of independent heating wires 106 (or other types of conductors) that bypass the PCB 26 to supply power to the heating assembly 22. Conversely, in the second arrangement, the electro-optic assembly 52 receives power from the PCB 26. More specifically, the PCB 26 may include a third conductive trace 108 electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly 52. Figure 3BThe third conductive trace 108 may be connected to the first electro-optic terminal 110 and the second electro-optic terminal 112 via a conductive intermediate 109 (e.g., a conductive terminal, different types of conductors, such as wires, solder, compliant pins, conductive paste, conductive epoxy, conductive springs, conductive adhesives, etc.) that may be directly contacted or located in a through-hole. The first electro-optic terminal 110 may be integrally or otherwise electrically coupled to the first electro-optic track 114, which extends between the first electro-optic terminal 110 and the first electro-optic conduction inlet 116. Similarly, the second electro-optic terminal 112 may be integrally or otherwise electrically coupled to the second electro-optic track 118, which extends between the second electro-optic terminal 112 and the second electro-optic conduction inlet 120. The first electro-optic terminal 110 and the second electro-optic terminal 112 are electrically coupled to the power hub 32, and the first electro-optic track 114 and the second electro-optic track 118 can extend from the terminals 110, 112 around the heating assembly 22 (e.g., around the outer perimeter 44, through the orifice 83, or through different orifices) to the first electro-optic conduction inlet 116 and the second electro-optic conduction inlet 120. The first electro-optic conduction inlet 116 and the second electro-optic conduction inlet 120 are electrically coupled to (e.g., soldered to) a corresponding one of the conductive clips 78. For example, the first electro-optic track 114 and the second electro-optic track 118 can extend around the outer perimeter 44, through the orifice 83, or through different orifices of the heating assembly 22, such that the first electro-optic conduction inlet 116 and the second electro-optic conduction inlet 120 contact the conductive clip 78 directly or through a conductive intermediate (e.g., solder, paste, ink, epoxy, tape, or solid conductor). In some embodiments, the first electro-optic track 114 and the second electro-optic track 118 may extend to through-holes in the heating assembly 22, such that the first electro-optic conduction inlet 116 and the second electro-optic conduction inlet 120 directly (e.g., by extending through the through-hole) or via a conductive intermediary (e.g., paste, ink, tape, or solid conductor) contacts the conductive clip 78. The power hub 32 may include a pair of electro-optic connection inlets 121, and the wiring harness 92 may be connected to the lighting module conductor 88 and the electro-optic power conductor 122, and may act as an intermediary to electrically couple the lighting module conductor 88 and the electro-optic power conductor 122 to the PCB 26 (e.g., via inlets 84, 121). The heating assembly 22 in the first configuration and second arrangement of the mirror assembly 10B may not be connected via the PCB 26. More specifically, the heating assembly 22 may be controlled via separate heating wires 106 electrically coupled to the conduction track 42 (e.g., the first heating conduction terminal 46 and the second heating conduction terminal 48). In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 108 includes a pair of conductive traces 28, 108 that provide a closed-loop conduction path for the lighting module 14 and the electro-optical assembly 52. ​​In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 108 may include a single conductive trace 28, 108 that supplies power to the lighting module 14 and the electro-optical assembly 52, as well as a separate and shared return trace.

[0019] Now for reference Figures 4A to 5 The diagram illustrates a mirror assembly 10C according to a first configuration and a third arrangement. Unless otherwise explicitly indicated, the mirror assemblies 10C of the first configuration and the third arrangement may share all the same features, materials, and functions, and are incorporated into the same structure as other configurations and arrangements described herein. More specifically, in the third arrangement, both the heating assembly 22 and the electro-optic assembly 52 receive power directly from the PCB 26. Therefore, the PCB 26 includes each pair of conductive traces 28, 30, and 108, and the wiring harness 92 connects to the lighting module conductor 88, the heating assembly conductor 90, and the electro-optic power supply conductor 122, and may act as an intermediary to electrically couple the lighting module conductor 88, the heating assembly conductor 90, and the electro-optic power supply conductor 122 to the PCB 26. In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 30, and 108 includes at least one (e.g., a pair) of conductive traces 28, 30, and 108 providing a closed-loop conduction path for the lighting module 14, the heating assembly 22, and the electro-optic assembly 52. In some embodiments, at least one conductive trace 28, 30, and 108 may supply power to the lighting module 14, the heating assembly 22, and / or the electro-optical assembly 52, and includes a separate but shared return trace. In some embodiments, two of the conductive traces 28, 30, and 108 have separate but shared return traces, and another of the conductive traces 28, 30, and 108 includes a pair with independent closed-loop paths.

[0020] Figure 5 The mirror assembly 10C of the first configuration and the third arrangement are shown. As will be described in more detail below, in the third arrangement, each of the lighting module 14, the heating assembly 22, and the electro-optical assembly 52 receives power from the PCB 26. However, it should be understood that... Figure 5 The mirror assembly 10C depicted can be used in other configurations and arrangements, but does not necessarily include the connection between PCB 26 and each of the lighting module 14, heating assembly 22, and electro-optical assembly 52. ​​Therefore, it should be understood that Figure 5 The mirror assembly 10C depicted can be used to describe any other construction and arrangement, but may additionally include, for example, a separate electro-optical conductor 80. Figure 2A ) or independent heating wire 106 ( Figure 3A (instead of a direct connection via PCB 26).

[0021] Now for reference Figure 6The image shows a mirror assembly 210A according to a second configuration and a fourth arrangement. Unless otherwise explicitly indicated, the mirror assemblies 210A of the second configuration and the fourth arrangement may share all the same features, materials, and functions, and are incorporated into the same structure as other configurations and arrangements described herein. More specifically, PCB 26 is electrically coupled to the lighting module 14 and the heating assembly 22. The connection to the heating assembly 22 is made using means different from and / or other than the second conductive trace 30. For example, PCB 26 may be electrically coupled to the heating assembly 22 using a heating intermediate conductor 124. The heating intermediate conductor 124 may comprise a pair of heating intermediate conductors 124, each extending between PCB 26 (e.g., the second conductive trace 30) and a heating conductive paddle 126 electrically coupled to the heating assembly 22. In some embodiments, without the conductive track 42, the heating assembly 22 (e.g., the conductive track 42) may be energized by the heating intermediate conductors 124 from the power hub 32. The paddle 126 may be at least partially conductive to distribute power along the area of ​​the heating assembly 22 in contact with the paddle 126. Although the heating assembly 22 is shown as covering only one side of the electro-optic assembly 52, it should be understood that the heating assembly 22 may substantially cover the entire side of the electro-optic assembly 52, as shown in the first configuration. The electro-optic assembly 52 in the second configuration and fourth arrangement of the mirror assembly 210A may not be connected via the PCB 26. More specifically, the electro-optic assembly 52 may be connected via a separate electro-optic conductor 80 (… Figure 2A Controlled by each individual electro-optical conductor, each conductor is electrically coupled to one of the electrical buses 74, 76 (e.g., via conductive clip 78). In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 30 includes a pair of conductive traces 28, 30 providing a closed-loop conduction path for the lighting module 14 and the heating assembly 22. In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 30 may include a single conductive trace 28, 30 supplying power to the lighting module 14 and the heating assembly 22, and a separate but shared return trace.

[0022] Now for reference Figure 7The diagram illustrates a mirror assembly 210B according to a second configuration and a fifth arrangement. Unless otherwise explicitly indicated, mirror assemblies 210A of the second configuration and fifth arrangement may share all the same features, materials, and functions, and are incorporated into the same structure as the other configurations and arrangements described herein. More specifically, PCB 26 is electrically coupled to illumination module 14 and electro-optic assembly 52. ​​The connection to electro-optic assembly 52 utilizes means different from and / or other than the third conductive trace 108. For example, PCB 26 may be electrically coupled to electro-optic assembly 52 using electro-optic intermediate conductors 128. Electro-optic intermediate conductors 128 may comprise a pair of electro-optic intermediate conductors 128, each extending between PCB 26 (e.g., the third conductive trace 108) and one of the conductive clips 78. Heating assembly 22 in the second configuration and fifth arrangement of mirror assembly 210B may not be connected via PCB 26. More specifically, the heating assembly 22 can be electrically coupled to the independent heating wire 106 of the paddle 126. Figure 3A Controlled by [unclear]. In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 108 includes a pair of conductive traces 28, 108 that provide a closed-loop conduction path for the lighting module 14 and the electro-optical assembly 52. ​​In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 108 may include a single conductive trace 28, 108 that supplies power to the lighting module 14 and the electro-optical assembly 52, and a separate and shared return trace.

[0023] Now for reference Figure 8 The diagram illustrates a mirror assembly 210C according to a second configuration and a sixth arrangement. Unless otherwise explicitly indicated, the mirror assemblies 210C of the second configuration and the sixth arrangement can share all the same features, materials, and functions, and are incorporated into the same structure as the other configurations and arrangements described herein. More specifically, in the sixth arrangement, both the heating assembly 22 and the electro-optic assembly 52 receive power directly from the PCB 26. Therefore, the PCB 26 can be electrically coupled to the heating intermediate conductor 124 and the electro-optic intermediate conductor 128 (e.g., via conductive traces 30 and 108 pairs), and the wiring harness 92 connects to the lighting module conductor 88, the heating assembly conductor 90, and the electro-optic power supply conductor 122, and can act as an intermediary to electrically couple the lighting module conductor 88, the heating assembly conductor 90, and the electro-optic power supply conductor 122 to the PCB 26. In some embodiments, each conductive trace 28, 30, and 108 may include a single conductive trace 28, 30, and 108 that supplies power to the lighting module 14, the heating assembly 22, and the electro-optical assembly, as well as a separate and shared return trace. In some embodiments, two of the conductive traces 28, 30, and 108 have separate and shared return traces, and another of the conductive traces 28, 30, and 108 includes a pair with independent closed-loop paths.

[0024] Now for reference Figures 1 to 8Heating assembly 22 is depicted as a constant-power heater. Heating assembly 22 may have two connections (e.g., from power hub 32 or independently) and one or more pathways for current operation. Heat is generated by the resistance of the conductive rails 42 (e.g., traces) and the current flowing due to the potential difference between the two connection points (typically referred to as "terminals"). The thickness, width, and spacing of the conductive rails 42 may be uniform, resulting in uniform heat generation. The resistance of the constant-power heater determines how much power will be generated at a given voltage. For example, the heater resistance may be 8 ohms, for example at 13V (when vehicle 12 is running), so the current may be approximately 1.6 A. In this example, heating assembly 22 will generate approximately 21 watts of power. The performance of heating assembly 22 is typically determined by the time it takes to heat the mirror assembly to remove a given amount of ice, frost, or surface moisture from the mirror. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to provide non-uniform heating within certain portions of mirror assemblies 10A-10C and 210A-210C. For example, it may be beneficial to heat the outer periphery (or other parts) more quickly or to a higher temperature. In such embodiments, more than two conductive tracks 42 may be used, wherein the conductive track 42 surrounding the portion of the mirror assemblies 10A-10C and 210A-210C that receives more heat can receive more power and / or be narrower in thickness and spacing to generate more heat. In other such embodiments, a single conductive track 42 exists, and the portion of the conductive track 42 surrounding the portion of the mirror assemblies 10A-10C and 210A-210C can be narrower in thickness and spacing to generate more heat.

[0025] Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 8As previously explained, the heating assembly 22 is intended to be configured as a PTC heater. In such embodiments, the conductive track 42 is configured as one or more electrical buses, where the traces are branched into multiple interdigitated paths (e.g., positive and negative buses with positive and negative branches). For example, the conductive track 42 can resemble a pair of combs crossing each other, with the teeth parallel but not touching. Unlike constant power configurations, the PTC heater may comprise a PTC material (e.g., a layer on a substrate) that generates heat at low temperatures and room temperature and has low resistance, but where the resistance increases significantly at higher temperatures. As a result, current flows from, for example, a 13 V trace through the PTC material and then to another trace grounded. Most of the heat is generated in the resistive PTC material. Once the PTC material is hot, its resistance increases, so the current decreases and the power of the heater decreases accordingly. In embodiments utilizing a PTC heater configuration, it should be understood that the same connection scheme described in reference mirror assemblies 10A-10C and 210A-210C can be used. However, in such embodiments, the PTC material is conductive, and the higher voltage on the heater traces could damage the electro-optic assembly 52 because it is electrically coupled to the high-voltage heating assembly 22. One solution to this problem is to electrically isolate the electro-optic tracks 114, 118 from the heater traces. Electrical isolation will prevent unwanted communication between the heater traces and the electro-optic tracks 114, 118. The disadvantage of electrical isolation is that the area surrounding the electro-optic tracks 114, 118 will not be heated.

[0026] Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 8 It should be further understood that other types of heating assemblies may be used without departing from the scope of this application. It should also be understood that the mirror assemblies 10A-10C and 210A-210C may not include the electro-optic assembly 52, but instead include glass elements, such as a single substrate with a reflective coating or an optical stack with a reflective coating other than the electro-optic assembly 52. ​​In embodiments without the electro-optic assembly 52, an aperture 77 may be formed in the reflective-coated glass element.

[0027] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," and "third" are provided to distinguish elements, such as pairs of conductive traces 28, 30, and 108. These terms may be used interchangeably in the claims to simply distinguish electrical components connected in the order of description to the lighting module 14, the heating assembly 22, and the electro-optical assembly 52.

[0028] The disclosures herein are further summarized in the following paragraphs and are further characterized as any and all combinations of the aspects described herein.

[0029] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an illumination module configured to illuminate a section of the mirror assembly. A heating assembly includes heat conduction tracks. A printed circuit board (“PCB”) includes a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the illumination module and a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the heating assembly. A power hub is electrically coupled to the first and second conductive traces and provides power to both the illumination module and the heating assembly.

[0030] According to one aspect, the heating assembly is configured as a constant power heater.

[0031] According to another aspect, the electro-optic assembly includes a front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface. The second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first electrode is coupled to the second surface. A second electrode is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic dielectric is located between the first and second electrodes.

[0032] On another note, the heating assembly is located near the electro-optic assembly to regulate the temperature for defrosting or defogging the front substrate.

[0033] According to another aspect, the PCB includes a third conductive trace electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly. This third conductive trace receives power from the power hub.

[0034] According to another aspect, the power hub includes a first connection to a first conductive trace, a second connection to a second conductive trace, and a third connection to a third conductive trace, which individually supplies power to the lighting module, the heating assembly, and the electro-optical assembly.

[0035] According to another aspect, the electro-optical assembly includes a pair of electrical buses, and at least one of the electrical buses is connected to a conductive clip, which is electrically coupled to a third conductive trace.

[0036] According to another aspect, the electro-optic assembly receives power from a pair of independent electro-optic wires that are separate from the PCB.

[0037] According to another aspect, a pair of independent electro-optical wires each terminate at a different point in a pair of conductive clips coupled to the first and second electrodes.

[0038] According to another aspect, the heating assembly defines the orifice, and the components of the lighting module are located on the PCB and aligned with the orifice to receive or transmit information through it.

[0039] On the other hand, the heating assembly is sealed airtightly.

[0040] According to another aspect, the heating assembly utilizes compliant needle electrical coupling to a second conductive trace.

[0041] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an illumination module configured to illuminate a segment of the mirror assembly. An electro-optic assembly includes a front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface. The second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first electrode is coupled to the second surface, and a second electrode is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first and second electrodes. A printed circuit board (“PCB”) includes a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the illumination module and a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly. A power hub is electrically coupled to the first and second conductive traces and provides power to both the illumination module and the electro-optic assembly.

[0042] According to another aspect, the electro-optical assembly utilizes a pair of conductive springs to electrically couple to a second conductive trace.

[0043] On the other hand, the heating assembly regulates the temperature to defrost or defog the front substrate.

[0044] According to another aspect, the PCB includes a third conductive trace electrically coupled to the heating assembly, the third conductive trace receiving power from a power hub.

[0045] According to another aspect, the heating assembly receives power from a pair of independent heating wires that are separate from the PCB.

[0046] According to another aspect, each of the pair of independent heating wires terminates at one of the pair of paddles, and each paddle is in contact with the heating assembly.

[0047] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an illumination module configured to illuminate a segment of the mirror assembly. An electro-optic assembly includes a front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface. The second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first electrode is coupled to the second surface, and a second electrode is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first and second electrodes. A heating assembly is configured to heat the mirror assembly. A printed circuit board (“PCB”) includes a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the illumination module, a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly, and a third conductive trace electrically coupled to the heating assembly. A power hub is electrically coupled to the first, second, and third conductive traces and provides power to each of the illumination module, the electro-optic assembly, and the heating assembly.

[0048] According to another aspect, the electro-optical assembly includes at least one aperture that provides an optical path for illumination from the lighting module.

[0049] 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.

[0050] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, coupled, coupling, etc.) generally means the direct or indirect engagement of two (electrical or mechanical) components with each other. Such engagement may be inherently static or inherently movable. Such engagement may be achieved using two (electrical or mechanical) components and any additional intermediate member integral with or forming a single unit with each other and with the two components. Unless otherwise stated, such engagement may be inherently permanent, or inherently removable or detachable.

[0051] As used herein, the term "about" means that a quantity, size, formulation, parameter, and other quantity and characteristic is not exact and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as needed, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, and other factors known to those skilled in the art. When the term "about" is used to describe a range value or endpoint, this disclosure is to be understood to include the specific value or endpoint mentioned. Regardless of whether the numerical value or endpoint of a range in the specification refers to "about," the numerical value or endpoint of a range is intended to include two embodiments: one modified by "about" and one not modified by "about." It should be further understood that each endpoint of a range is meaningful relative to and independent of the other endpoint.

[0052] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “basically,” and variations thereof are intended to indicate that the described feature is equal to or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a “substantially flat” surface is intended to mean a flat or substantially flat surface. Furthermore, “substantially” is intended to mean that two values ​​are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, “substantially” may mean values ​​within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0053] 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 who consult this disclosure will readily understand that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportion, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc. of various elements) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed from multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed; the operation of interfaces 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 assemblies of the system may be constructed from 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, changes, 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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 mirror assembly for a vehicle, characterized in that, include: An illumination module configured to illuminate a section of the mirror assembly; Heating assembly, the heating assembly including heat conduction track; PCB, the PCB including a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the lighting module and a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the heating assembly; as well as A power hub electrically coupled to the first and second conductive traces, and providing power to both the lighting module and the heating assembly. The mirror assembly further includes an electro-optic assembly, the electro-optic assembly comprising: A front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; A second substrate having a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface, the second surface and the third surface facing each other to define a gap; A first electrode, which is coupled to the second surface; A second electrode, the second electrode being coupled to the third surface; and An electro-optic medium, wherein the electro-optic medium is located between the first electrode and the second electrode.

2. The mirror assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating assembly is configured as a constant power heater.

3. The mirror assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating assembly is brought close to the electro-optic assembly to heat the mirror assembly.

4. The mirror assembly according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The PCB includes a third conductive trace electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly, the third conductive trace receiving power from the power hub.

5. The mirror assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The power hub includes a first connection to the first conductive trace, a second connection to the second conductive trace, and a third connection to the third conductive trace, for individually supplying power to the lighting module, the heating assembly, and the electro-optical assembly.

6. The mirror assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The electro-optical assembly further includes a pair of electrical buses, and at least one of the electrical buses is connected to a conductive clip, which is electrically coupled to the third conductive trace.

7. The mirror assembly according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The electro-optic assembly receives power from a pair of independent electro-optic wires that are separate from the PCB.

8. The mirror assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, Each of the independent electro-optical wires terminates at a different one of a pair of conductive clips coupled to the first electrode and the second electrode.

9. The mirror assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The heating assembly defines an aperture, and components of the lighting module are located on the PCB and aligned with the aperture to receive or transmit information through it.

10. The mirror assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, It further includes a cover that airtightly seals the heating assembly.

11. The mirror assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The heating assembly is electrically coupled to the second conductive trace using a compliant needle.

12. A mirror assembly for a vehicle, characterized in that, include: An illumination module configured to illuminate a section of the mirror assembly; Electro-optic assembly, the electro-optic assembly comprising: A front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; A second substrate having a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface, the second surface and the third surface facing each other to define a gap; A first electrode, which is coupled to the second surface; A second electrode, the second electrode being coupled to the third surface; and An electro-optic medium, wherein the electro-optic medium is located between the first electrode and the second electrode; PCB, the PCB comprising a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the lighting module and a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly; and A power hub electrically coupled to the first conductive trace and the second conductive trace, and providing power to both the lighting module and the electro-optical assembly.

13. The mirror assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The electro-optic assembly is electrically coupled to the second conductive trace using a pair of conductive springs.

14. The mirror assembly according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, It further includes a heating assembly that regulates the temperature to defrost or defog the front substrate.

15. The mirror assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The PCB includes a third conductive trace electrically coupled to the heating assembly, the third conductive trace receiving power from the power hub.

16. The mirror assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The heating assembly receives power from a pair of independent heating wires that are separate from the PCB.

17. The mirror assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that, Each of the individual heating wires terminates at one of a pair of paddles, and each paddle is in contact with the heating assembly.

18. A mirror assembly for a vehicle, characterized in that, include: An illumination module configured to illuminate a section of the mirror assembly; Electro-optic assembly, the electro-optic assembly comprising: A front substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; A second substrate having a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface, the second surface and the third surface facing each other to define a gap; A first electrode, which is coupled to the second surface; A second electrode, the second electrode being coupled to the third surface; and An electro-optic medium, wherein the electro-optic medium is located between the first electrode and the second electrode; A heating assembly configured to heat the mirror assembly; PCB, the PCB comprising a first conductive trace electrically coupled to the lighting module, a second conductive trace electrically coupled to the electro-optic assembly, and a third conductive trace electrically coupled to the heating assembly; and A power hub electrically coupled to the first conductive trace, the second conductive trace, and the third conductive trace, and providing power to each of the lighting module, the electro-optical assembly, and the heating assembly.

19. The mirror assembly according to claim 18, characterized in that, The electro-optic assembly includes at least one aperture that provides an optical path for illumination from the lighting module.

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