Multifunctional, modular folding exterior mirror and camera system with adaptive sensors, height adjustment, signaling and extended comfort and safety features for motor vehicles

Abstract

Multifunctional exterior mirror and camera system (main claim) Exterior mirror and camera system for motor vehicles for integration into the A-pillar, characterized in that - the system is designed as a vertically stretched, modularly constructed mirror module with at least three functional segments, - each segment can be folded and height-adjusted separately, either electrically or hydraulically, - at least one segment is equipped with an integrated camera for environmental sensing, - the entire module is flush with the A-pillar and no parts protrude beyond the bodywork, - and the system is designed with plug and screw connections so that individual modules or the entire system can be easily replaced for maintenance or in case of damage.

Description

Technical field:

[0001] The invention relates to a multifunctional system for exterior mirrors and environmental monitoring on motor vehicles, in particular an electrically foldable and modular exterior mirror / camera system that can be integrated into the A-pillar and optionally the B-pillar, with adaptive adjustability, extended signaling, cleaning and protection devices, as well as possibilities for quick maintenance and interchangeability of modules. State of the art:

[0002] Conventional exterior mirrors are usually fixed to the vehicle doors, offering a limited field of vision, increased susceptibility to personal injury, and rarely providing advanced features such as surround-view monitoring, dynamic adjustment, or direct communication with other road users and passengers. Improvements like blind-spot monitoring, electric heating, or folding mechanisms are known to some extent, but complex and combined solutions like those described below have not yet been implemented as standard or patented systems. Invention and Problem Solving - Summary and System Description:

[0003] The invention comprises an innovative exterior mirror camera system with the following features and advantages: 1. All mirror and camera modules of the system can also be used as an integral part of a vehicle alarm and monitoring system. • Optionally, the system can also be used as an independent (separate) alarm system, separate from the other mirror and driver assistance functions. • The sensors, cameras, and signal transmitters embedded in the modules allow for the early detection of unauthorized access attempts, vandalism, or theft in and on the vehicle. Upon detecting a dangerous situation, the system can automatically trigger visual, audible, and / or digital alarm signals and transmit corresponding messages to the vehicle interior, the vehicle owner, or a connected control center. • This alarm function can be activated both in standby mode and during normal vehicle operation, making the overall system significantly more versatile and secure. 2. Integration and modularity • The multifunctional exterior mirror and camera system is flush-mounted and compactly integrated into the vehicle's A-pillar. The three-part, vertically arranged segments extend along the entire height of the A-pillar and precisely follow its contour and shape, without any protruding traditional, separately mounted exterior mirrors. • This close fit to the A-pillar enables a particularly aerodynamic design, reduces air resistance and minimizes noise while driving. At the same time, the positioning offers protection against damage in confined driving environments, such as when parking or in urban traffic situations. • Installation is carried out directly at predefined mounting points on the A-pillar using robust screw and plug connections, which also allow for quick disassembly and replacement of individual modules (plug & play principle). The wiring of the electrical and hydraulic components is routed inside the A-pillar to ensure a clean and secure connection, with all moving and fixed parts being securely fixed. • Through this precise integration, the system becomes part of the vehicle structure and completely replaces the conventional mirror housings mounted outside the body, resulting in improved visibility, safety and visual harmony of the vehicle. • The system is primarily integrated into the A-pillar on both sides of the vehicle, with an optional system corner in the B-pillar extending the field of vision and communication for rear passengers. • All modules (mirrors, cameras, sensors, signal transmitters, cleaning mechanism) are attached via standardized electrical connectors (plugs) and screwed hinge points, ensuring quick and easy replacement in case of damage or maintenance (“plug & play” principle). 3. Mirror and camera module with flexible height adjustment • The main element consists of several independent mirror module sections (upper, middle, lower mirror glass) which can be folded electronically both horizontally and vertically. • An electric or hydraulic height adjustment allows individual modules or cameras to be extended telescopically above the roof level as needed (e.g. for better visibility at intersections or special hazardous situations). • Each mirror area can be individually opened, adjusted, heated and cleaned (e.g. automatic activation of the bottom element when reverse gear is engaged). 4. Adaptive camera and sensor systems • Each mirror module integrates at least one high-resolution camera that monitors the front, sides, and, optionally, the rear of the vehicle. The system offers night vision, video recording (e.g., for anti-theft protection), and can transmit video streams to driver and passenger monitors. • Sensors (e.g. radar, lidar, ultrasound) for measuring the environment and distance detect vehicles approaching parallel and perpendicularly, and activate warning indicators / safety logic (signal light, warning messages on the display, acoustic warning) if necessary. • Adaptive mirror / camera positioning via eye tracking or seat position sensors: The system analyzes the driver's gaze / posture and automatically adjusts the optimal viewing angle. 5. Special signaling and communication • Integrated, flashing LED light strips / signaling surfaces on the A-pillar / mirror modules warn not only the driver but also other road users (e.g. vehicles approaching an intersection from the side) when a collision risk is detected. • Especially in poor visibility conditions (fog, night, bad weather), mirrors or camera modules can be extended and additional signal lighting can be activated. • An optional communication system in the B-pillar allows rear passengers to receive real-time image / video view and to relay warnings or feedback to the driver at the touch of a button. 6. Comfort & Environmental Protection Features • Control & Memory: Storage of numerous individual profiles (different drivers, seating positions, mirror preferences); automatic recalibration when changing drivers or moving the seat. • Integrated cleaning: The mirror / camera surfaces are cleaned via dedicated nozzles from the windshield washer system; heating films for defrosting are integrated. • Glare protection: Mirror / cover glass coating including adaptive film / cap against sun glare; intelligent films dim automatically in bright sunlight. • Droplet protection: Small-format "canopies" / caps prevent water accumulation and improve visibility even in heavy rain. 7. B-pillar function for passenger comfort • Cameras / mini-monitors integrated into the B-pillar allow rear passengers to independently monitor their surroundings and, if necessary, warn the driver. • Networking between the front mirror / camera unit and the rear passenger units ensures bidirectional information exchange and thus increases overall safety in the vehicle. 8. Interchangeability and maintainability (modularity) • Thanks to the design using plug connections and few mounting screws, in the event of damage, defect or wear, it is possible to replace individual modules or the entire system in a time- and cost-efficient manner without special tools (e.g. after collision or vandalism). 9. Advantages over the state of the art: • Fully modular, previously uncombined system landscape (camera, movable mirrors, signaling, cleaning, comfort) • Enhanced, comprehensive all-round visibility for driver and passengers with near-complete elimination of the blind spot and monitoring of side / cross traffic areas. • Significantly improved traffic and collision safety through active external signals for other participants. • Reduced noise and fuel consumption thanks to aerodynamically integrated, retractable mirror systems. • Increased efficiency and sustainability through a fully modular and easily maintainable design. 10. Summary: • The described system represents a novel, multifunctional solution for exterior mirrors, environmental monitoring, and signaling in motor vehicles. Through its unique combination of modular design, customizable operating and viewing functions, adaptive camera technology, intelligent sensors, and innovative comfort / safety management, it sets new standards for passive and active safety, user comfort, ease of maintenance, and environmental compatibility in the modern automotive sector. 11. Use in the field of automated and autonomous driving (automotive driving) • The described exterior mirror and camera system is particularly suitable for vehicles with automated or autonomous driving operation (“automotive driving”). • The integrated multifunctional mirror and camera modules offer enhanced and precise detection of the vehicle's surroundings, which significantly supports vehicle control and driver assistance systems. • This improves situational orientation, environmental perception and thus safety through early hazard detection as well as optimized lane changes and driving maneuvers. • The application makes the system an important component of modern and future vehicle generations that rely on more automation and increased road safety. Description of the illustrations Fig. - Overall view of the system in vehicle integration Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of a motor vehicle with the A-pillar integrated into the module sections of the multifunctional exterior mirror and camera system. Several rectangular functional modules are arranged along the A-pillar, housing the mirror, camera, sensor, and signaling units. The figure illustrates the flush integration of the modules into the vehicle contour and the positioning of the system elements within the vehicle's front field of vision. Fig. - Detailed view of the A-pillar module Fig. The figure shows a perspective front view of a motor vehicle, highlighting the position of a functional module integrated into the left A-pillar. The module is designed as a cylindrical or round sensor housing and is located directly in the transition area between the windshield and the side window. The illustration clarifies the spatial arrangement of the sensor element and its orientation for detecting the vehicle's front and side surroundings. Fig. - Variant view for sedans and sports cars Fig. This schematic side view of a sedan or sporty vehicle shows the positioning of the exterior mirror and camera module on the A-pillar. The illustration clarifies the module's installation and mounting position on vehicle bodies with a flatter windshield line and a sporty silhouette. The functional module is located in the lower section of the A-pillar and follows the vehicle's contours, making integration possible regardless of the vehicle class. Fig. - Upper mirror / camera module in signal and monitoring position Fig.Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the system's upper mirror / camera module in a vertical orientation. The module is designed as a cylindrical sensor housing with a central optical aperture and is shown in the extended / activated state. The illustration clarifies the positioning of the upper module for enhanced environmental monitoring and its function as an optical unit for visual, signaling, or monitoring tasks.

Claims

[1] Multifunctional exterior mirror and camera system (main claim) Exterior mirror and camera system for motor vehicles for integration into the A-pillar, characterized by , that - the system is designed as a vertically stretched, modularly constructed mirror module with at least three functional segments, - each segment can be folded and height-adjusted separately, either electrically or hydraulically, - at least one segment is equipped with an integrated camera for environmental sensing, - the entire module is flush with the A-pillar and no parts protrude beyond the bodywork, - and the system is designed with plug and screw connections so that individual modules or the entire system can be easily replaced for maintenance or in case of damage. [2] System according to claim 1, characterized bythat the mirror and camera segments are each equipped with LED lights and / or signal strips that give warnings to other road users depending on traffic situations. [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that each segment has a glare and rain protection device consisting of a special anti-reflective film or an integrated mini cap (sun protection / rain protection). [4] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one segment of the mirror module can be extended telescopically from the A-pillar by means of electric or hydraulic height adjustment, thereby improving the driver's line of sight and the signal effect. [5] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a cleaning device consisting of a spray nozzle of the vehicle windshield washer system is integrated, which can specifically clean the mirror and camera module. [6] System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the individual segments are equipped with heating foils to prevent fogging or icing and thus ensure an unrestricted view. [7] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the module positioning and function is automatically controlled via a driver profile recognition system and / or eye tracking, whereby the preferred position per driver can be stored. [8] System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that an extension in the B-pillar area includes an additional camera module and / or monitor system for the rear seat passengers, enabling independent environmental monitoring and communication with the driver. [9] System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that when reverse gear is engaged, the lower segment is automatically activated and / or the camera is switched to close-range detection to assist with maneuvering and parking. [10] System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that malfunctions or maintenance needs are automatically detected and reported to the driver on the display to facilitate targeted maintenance or the replacement of individual modules. [11] System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the exterior mirror and camera system is used in conjunction with automated or autonomous driving functions (“automotive driving”) to ensure improved environmental perception and orientation of the vehicle control software.

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