SYSTEM FOR AN EXTENDED LATERAL VIEW AREA OF TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

A method and a system comprise a turn signal lever that can be moved between a neutral position, a standard turn signal position, and an extended view mirror position. A desired extended view mirror position is set by the driver, and the mirror automatically moves to the desired extended view position when the turn signal lever is moved into the extended view mirror position.

Description

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a mirror system that provides an extended view option, enabling a driver to extend the view of a side mirror for positioning purposes. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Vehicles often include side mirrors, which are used to simplify driving maneuvers such as merging, changing lanes, parking, etc. BRIEF OVERVIEW

[0003] A system according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things: an input for selecting between vehicle settings, which include at least a standard view and an extended view; a mirror adjustment control, wherein the mirror adjustment control is selectively actuated by a user according to a selection of the extended view in order to position a mirror in a desired position of the extended view; a turn signal lever that is movable between a standard position and a position of the extended view; and a control, wherein the control automatically moves the mirror to the desired position of the extended view according to a selection of the extended view and a movement of the turn signal lever.

[0004] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, the direction indicator lever is selectively moved to the extended view position in response to the user determining that enhanced lateral visibility could simplify a driving maneuver.

[0005] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, the mirror moves from the desired position of the extended view back to a standard mirror position once the driving maneuver is completed and / or a predetermined condition has been met.

[0006] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, the user, in response to a movement of the direction indicator lever to the standard position, makes a determination as to whether extended lateral vision is required.

[0007] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, the direction indicator lever returns to a neutral position once the driving maneuver has been completed.

[0008] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, the neutral position includes a no-turn signal condition, the standard position includes a right or left turn signal condition, and the extended view position includes a mirror activation condition to move the mirror to the desired extended view position.

[0009] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, a memory stores the desired position of the extended view of the mirror, which has been selected by the user.

[0010] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, the input includes an input screen with a menu containing the vehicle settings.

[0011] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, the input screen includes a save option that can be selected by the user once the user has moved the mirror to the desired position of the augmented view.

[0012] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any system, a button or switch can be selectively operated by the user to save the mirror in the desired position of the extended view.

[0013] A method according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things: providing a direction indicator lever that is movable between a neutral position, a standard indicator position and an extended view mirror position; setting a desired extended view position for a mirror; and automatically moving the mirror to the desired extended view position in accordance with a movement of the direction indicator lever to the extended view mirror position.

[0014] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the method includes the following: selecting an extended view option from a plurality of vehicle setting options; selectively actuating a mirror adjustment control according to a selection of the extended view option to adjust the mirror to the desired extended view position; storing the desired extended view position in memory; and automatically moving the mirror from a mirror home position to the desired extended view position according to a selection of the extended view option and a movement of the turn signal lever to the extended view mirror position.

[0015] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the method involves selectively moving the direction indicator lever into the mirror position of the extended view in response to a driver determination that an extended lateral view could simplify a driving maneuver.

[0016] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the method includes automatically moving the mirror back from the desired position of the extended view to the mirror's initial position once the driving maneuver has been completed and / or a predetermined condition has been met.

[0017] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any method, a driver, in response to a movement of the direction indicator lever to the standard turn signal position, makes a determination as to whether extended lateral visibility is required.

[0018] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the neutral position includes a no-turn signal condition, the standard turn signal position includes a right or left turn signal condition, and the extended view mirror position includes a mirror activation condition to initiate a movement of the mirror to the desired extended view position, and includes the method of returning the turn signal lever to the neutral position once the driving maneuver has been completed.

[0019] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any method, selecting the extended view option from the multitude of vehicle setting options involves selectively interacting with an input screen containing a menu that includes the multitude of vehicle setting options.

[0020] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the input screen includes a memory option that can be selected by a driver once the mirror has been moved into the desired position of the extended view.

[0021] In a further non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the method includes providing a button or switch that can be selectively actuated by a driver to store the mirror in the desired position of the extended view.

[0022] In another non-restrictive embodiment of any method, the method involves arranging the button or switch adjacent to the mirror adjustment control.

[0023] The embodiments, examples, and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, the claims, or the following description and drawings, which may include any of their various aspects or individual features, can be considered independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, provided such features are not incompatible. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0024] The various features and advantages of the disclosed examples will be apparent to the person skilled in the art from the detailed description. The figures accompanying the detailed description can be briefly described as follows: Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a mirror control system for selectively providing an extended lateral view for a mirror. Fig. 2A is a perspective view of a vehicle interior with a steering wheel, a turn signal lever and an input screen. Fig. 2B is a schematic illustration of a variety of positions for the direction indicator lever. Fig. Figure 3 is a flowchart of a procedure for selecting and setting an option for the extended side view. Fig. 4A is a perspective view of a mirror in a starting viewing position, e.g. a standard viewing position. Fig. 4B is Fig. 4A is similar, but shows the mirror in the position of the extended side view. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an input screen for selecting an option from the extended view. Fig. Figure 6 is a top view of a mirror adjustment input. Fig. 7 is Fig. 5 is similar, but shows a memory feature for the mirror adjustment setting, which provides the extended side view. Fig. 8 is Fig. 6 is similar, but shows a button / switch option that is activated as a memory feature for the mirror adjustment setting, which provides the extended side view. Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic view of a memory message that is displayed to a driver once the mirror adjustment setting has been saved, which provides the enhanced side view. Fig. Figure 10 is a flowchart of an operational example for the mirror control system for selectively providing the extended lateral view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] This disclosure relates to a mirror system that provides an extended view option, enabling a driver to extend the view of a side mirror for purposes such as positioning.

[0026] Fig. Figure 1 shows a mirror control system 10 for selectively providing an extended lateral view for a vehicle side / exterior mirror 12 with a mirror adjustment control 14, which is controlled by one or more system controllers 16. A mirror adjustment input device 18 includes one or more buttons / switches 20 for selecting a right or left side mirror 12 and one or more buttons / switches 22 for adjusting a position of the selected mirror 12. The buttons / switches 22 are operated by a driver to position the selected mirror 12 in a desired position for the extended lateral view (compare Figure 1). Fig. 4A (initial position) and 4B (extended side view position). Once the selected mirror 12 is in the desired extended side view position, the position is saved to memory 24 either via a digital input screen 26 or via a physical button / switch 28. When the extended side view option is selected and saved by a driver, a turn signal lever 30 is selectively controlled by the driver to move the mirror 12 to the desired extended side view position as needed.

[0027] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2A, a vehicle 32 includes a driver area with a steering wheel 34, a turn signal lever 30, and an input screen 26. In implementations, the input screen 26 may include a touchscreen or another similar type of electronic display device. The input screen 26 allows a driver to select from a variety of vehicle settings or options. In one example, the variety of options includes an option for extended lateral view for the side mirror 12. Each mirror 12 includes a mirror adjustment control 14 that can change the position of a mirror surface 36 relative to a mirror housing 38. Fig. 1) The mirror adjustment control 14 can include any type of mirror actuator device, such as an electric motor, a gear drive, a linear actuator or any other similar device capable of controlling a mirror movement.

[0028] In implementations, the mirror surface 36 can be moved between a multitude of different positions and includes at least a first or starting position and a position of extended lateral view, which widens a viewing angle for purposes such as classification.

[0029] In implementations and according to a selection of the extended view option from the input screen 26, the mirror adjustment control 14 is selectively activated by a user to position the mirror surface 36 in a desired position of the extended view. This position can then be saved to memory 24.

[0030] In implementations, the direction indicator lever 30 can be moved between a multitude of positions, including at least a neutral position, a standard indicator position and a mirror position for extended visibility. Fig. Figure 2B shows an example in which the direction indicator lever 30 can be moved between a neutral position 40, a right indicator position 42, a right extended side view and right indicator position 44, a left indicator position 46 and a left extended side view and right indicator position 48. Fig. Figure 3 shows an example flowchart for a procedure to select and set an enhanced side view option. The procedure begins at 50, with vehicle 32 parked, as shown in Figure 52. Next, the driver enters vehicle 32 and selects the "Enhanced View" option from a menu on input screen 26, as shown in Figure 54. The system then determines at 56 whether the "Enhanced View" option has been enabled, and if it has not, the procedure ends at 58.

[0031] When the "Extended View" option is enabled, the driver adjusts the mirror position to a desired extended side view position using the mirror adjustment control 18, as described in section 60. This desired extended side view position can then be saved either by a switch or a button, as described in section 62, and / or by selecting a memory option on the input screen 26, as described in section 64. The driver then receives a confirmation message, as described in section 66, and the procedure ends in section 68.

[0032] Fig. Figure 4A shows an example of a starting or exit view for mirror 12 during a driving maneuver that includes a merging event. In this view, two lane markings 70 can be seen, located on the far left side of mirror 12. Fig. Figure 4B shows the same mirror 12 in the extended side view position. In this position, it can be seen that the two lane lines 70 have moved further to the right and an additional lane line 72, which was not visible before, is now visible on the left.

[0033] To move the mirror 12 into the extended side view position, the extended view option must be activated, and the turn signal lever 30 must first be moved to a first turn signal position, e.g., a turn signal position for turning right 42 or left 46. With the turn signal lever 30 in this first position, the driver determines whether the mirror's side view should be extended. Once the determination has been made that extended side view could simplify a driving maneuver, the driver selectively moves the turn signal lever to a second position, e.g., an extended side view position and a right or left turn signal position 44, 48.

[0034] In implementations, the control unit 16 moves the mirror 12 according to a selection of the extended view option and a movement of the direction indicator lever 30 into the extended view position, e.g. the second position, automatically into the desired position of the extended side view.

[0035] In implementations, mirror 12 moves from the desired extended view position back to a standard or initial mirror position once the driving maneuver is completed and / or a predetermined condition is met. Examples of predetermined conditions may include a steering wheel returning to its original position, the turn signal lever returning to a neutral position, or another similar event.

[0036] In implementations, the direction indicator lever 30 moves back to the neutral position 40 as soon as the driving maneuver has been completed.

[0037] Fig. Figure 5 shows an example of the input device, which has a menu 74 with a variety of vehicle settings and options, including an option 78 for extended view via the mirror ( Fig. 7).

[0038] Fig. Figure 6 shows an example of the mirror adjustment input 18 with the one or more buttons / switches 20 for selecting a right or left side mirror 12 and the one or more buttons / switches 22 for adjusting the position of the selected mirror 12. The buttons / switches 22 are operated by the driver to place the selected mirror 12 in a desired position for extended lateral view.

[0039] Once the selected mirror 12 is in the desired position of the extended lateral view, the position is saved in the memory 24 either via the digital input screen 26 or via the physical button / switch 28.

[0040] Fig. Figure 7 shows an example where the input screen 26 includes a memory option 76 which can be selected by the driver once the driver has moved the mirror 12 into the desired position of the extended view.

[0041] Fig. Figure 8 shows the button or switch 28, which can be selectively operated by the driver to save the mirror 12 in the desired extended view position. In one example, the switch 28 is held down for a predetermined duration, e.g., 3 seconds, to save the desired position. In implementations, the button or switch 28 may be located adjacent to or part of the mirror adjustment control 18.

[0042] Fig. Figure 9 shows an example where, once the mirror position of the extended view has been saved, for example a confirmation message 80 is generated on a screen 82 on an instrument cluster 83.

[0043] Fig. Figure 10 is a flowchart of an operating example for the mirror control system 20 for selectively providing the extended lateral view. The procedure begins at 84, where a driver wishes to perform a driving maneuver, e.g., a merging maneuver, as indicated in 86. To initiate this maneuver, the driver moves the direction indicator lever 30 to the corresponding first position 42 or 46, as indicated in 88. Next, the driver determines whether the lateral view ( Fig. 4A) is sufficient, as indicated at 90.

[0044] If the lateral field of vision is sufficient, the driver performs the maneuver as indicated in 92, the direction indicator lever 30 returns to the neutral position 40 as indicated in 94, and the process ends in 96. In one example, the direction indicator lever 30 returns to the neutral position 40 when the steering wheel 34 returns to a straight path; however, the driver can move the lever back to the neutral position or other procedures can be used.

[0045] If the lateral field of vision is insufficient, the driver moves the direction indicator lever 30 to the corresponding second position 44 or 48, as indicated in 98. The control unit 16 then automatically moves the mirror surface 36 to the stored position of the extended lateral view ( Fig.4B), as specified in 100. The driver then performs the maneuver as specified in 102. Once the maneuver is completed, the mirror position and the turn signal lever 30 return to their original position and neutral position 40, as specified in 104, and the process ends in 96. In some conventional mirror configurations, exterior mirrors may not be able to provide a full side / rear view for drivers merging into streets, expressways / highways, etc., due to geometric limitations. The present disclosure provides a mirror control system that can extend the side / rear view, thus making merging maneuvers easier. Furthermore, the system can be easily and effectively integrated into any type of vehicle.

[0046] The preceding description is exemplary and not limiting. Variations and modifications of the disclosed examples may be apparent to a person skilled in the art, which do not necessarily deviate from the core of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection granted to the present disclosure can only be determined by reading the following patent claims.

[0047] According to the present invention, a system is provided comprising: an input for selecting between vehicle settings, which include at least a standard view and an extended view; a mirror adjustment control, wherein the mirror adjustment control is selectively actuated by a user according to a selection of the extended view in order to position a mirror in a desired position of the extended view; a turn signal lever that is movable between a standard position and a position of the extended view; and a controller, wherein the controller automatically moves the mirror to the desired position of the extended view according to a selection of the extended view and a movement of the turn signal lever into the position of the extended view.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the direction indicator lever is selectively moved to the extended view position in response to the user determining that enhanced lateral visibility could simplify a driving maneuver.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the mirror moves from the desired position of the extended view back to a standard mirror position as soon as the driving maneuver is completed and / or a predetermined condition has been met.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the user, in response to a movement of the direction indicator lever to the standard position, determines whether extended lateral visibility is required.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the direction indicator lever moves back to a neutral position as soon as the driving maneuver has been completed.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the neutral position includes a no-turn signal condition, the standard position includes a right or left turn signal condition, and the extended view position includes a mirror activation condition to move the mirror to the desired extended view position.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a memory for storing the desired position of the extended view of the mirror, which has been selected by the user.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the input includes an input screen with a menu that contains the vehicle settings.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the input screen includes a save option that can be selected by the user once the user has moved the mirror to the desired position of the extended view.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a button or switch which can be selectively operated by the user to save the mirror in the desired position of the extended view.

[0057] According to the present invention, a method comprises: providing a direction indicator lever that is movable between a neutral position, a standard indicator position, and an extended view mirror position; setting a desired extended view position for a mirror; and automatically moving the mirror to the desired extended view position in accordance with a movement of the direction indicator lever to the extended view mirror position.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by the following: selecting an extended view option from a plurality of vehicle setting options; selectively actuating a mirror adjustment control according to a selection of the extended view option in order to adjust the mirror to the desired extended view position; storing the desired extended view position in a memory; and automatically moving the mirror from a mirror starting position to the desired extended view position according to a selection of the extended view option and a movement of the turn signal lever to the extended view mirror position.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by selectively moving the direction indicator lever into the mirror position of the extended view in response to a driver determination that an extended lateral view could simplify a driving maneuver.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by an automatic return of the mirror from the desired position of the extended view to the mirror's initial position as soon as the driving maneuver is completed and / or a predetermined condition has been met.

[0061] According to one embodiment, in response to a movement of the turn signal lever to the standard flashing position, the driver determines whether extended lateral visibility is required.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the neutral position includes a no-turn signal condition, the standard turn signal position includes a right or left turn signal condition, and the extended view mirror position includes a mirror activation condition to initiate a movement of the mirror into the desired extended view position, and includes returning the turn signal lever to the neutral position once the driving maneuver has been completed.

[0063] According to one embodiment, selecting the extended view option from the multitude of vehicle setting options involves selectively interacting with an input screen containing a menu that includes the multitude of vehicle setting options.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the input screen includes a memory option that can be selected by a driver once the mirror has been moved into the desired position of the extended view.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by providing a button or switch which can be selectively actuated by a driver to save the mirror in the desired position of the extended view.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by arranging the button or switch adjacent to the mirror adjustment control.

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