Display mirror tilt notification and feedback

Abstract

Display mirror arrangement for a vehicle, the display mirror arrangement comprising: an electro-optical element that includes: a partially reflective, partially transparent front substrate with a rounded circumferential edge, wherein the front substrate defines a first surface and a second surface; a back substrate that defines a third surface and a fourth surface; and an electro-optical medium located between the front substrate and the The back substrate is arranged; a mounting element that is operably coupled to the vehicle and to the electro-optical element; an imager or image transmitter that is configured to capture image data outside the vehicle; a display module arranged adjacent to or near the back substrate, wherein the display module is configured to display the image data acquired by the image sensor, and wherein a control circuit is configured to control and drive the electro-optical element and the display module; and a sensor that is operably coupled with the electro-optical element and is configured to monitor the rotation of the electro-optical element between axial and off-axis positions and also to activate or deactivate the display module.

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The present disclosure relates in general to a retrospective device system and in particular to a display mirror arrangement comprising a partially reflective, partially transparent element and a display behind the reflective element. Summary of Revelation

[0002] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a display mirror arrangement for a vehicle includes an electro-optic element comprising a partially reflective, partially transparent front substrate having a rounded circumferential edge. The front substrate defines a first surface and a second surface. The electro-optic element also includes a back substrate defining a third surface and a fourth surface, as well as an electro-optic medium arranged between the front substrate and the back substrate. A mounting element is operably coupled to the vehicle and to the electro-optic element. An imager is configured to acquire image data outside the vehicle. A display module is arranged adjacent to the back substrate and configured to display the image data acquired by the imager. A control orThe control circuit is configured to control and regulate the electro-optical element and the display module, as well as to drive and power them. A sensor is operably coupled to the electro-optical element and configured to monitor its rotation between axial and off-axis positions, and also to activate or deactivate the display module.

[0003] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display mirror arrangement for a vehicle comprises a housing without an axis-changing rocker or toggle switch and an electro-optical element that is operable between a brightened state and a dimmed state. The electro-optical element is supported or mounted within the housing. A display near the electro-optical element is at least partially visible through the electro-optical element. The housing can be rotated by a user to an off-axis position, which changes the activation state of the display. The housing can also be rotated by the user to an axial position, which likewise changes the activation state of the display.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display mirror arrangement for a vehicle includes an electro-optical element and a mounting element that is operably coupled to the vehicle and the electro-optical element. An imager is configured to acquire image data outside the vehicle. A signal representing received light is transmitted from the imager to a control circuit, and the image data acquired by the imager is evaluated by the control circuit to determine potential glare on the electro-optical element. A display module is arranged adjacent to a back substrate and configured to display the image data acquired by the imager. The control circuit is configured to control and drive the electro-optical element and the display module.A sensor is operably coupled to the electro-optical element. The control circuit is configured to monitor a vertical rotation of the electro-optical element between an axial position, where the display module is activated, and an off-axis position, where the display module is deactivated.

[0005] These and other features, advantages and functions of the present disclosure will be better understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following description, the claims and the accompanying drawings. Brief description of the drawings

[0006] The drawings contain: Fig. 1. A perspective front view of a display mirror arrangement for a vehicle from above; Fig. 2 a perspective front view of the display mirror arrangement Fig. 1 from the bottom; Fig. 3 a side elevation view of the display mirror arrangement Fig. 1; Fig. 4 a partially separated perspective view of the display mirror arrangement Fig. 1 from the top; Fig. 5 a partially separated perspective view of the display mirror arrangement Fig. 1 from the top; Fig. 6. A skewed perspective view of the display mirror arrangement. Fig. 1 from the top; Fig. 7 an enlarged, partially side cross-sectional view of the display mirror arrangement Fig. 1; Fig. 8 a side elevation view of the display mirror arrangement Fig. 1; Fig. 9 a side elevation view of the display mirror arrangement Fig. 1; Fig. 10 a side elevation cross-sectional view of a display mirror arrangement according to the present disclosure in a display state; Fig. 11 a side elevation cross-sectional view of a display mirror arrangement according to the present disclosure in a reflective state; Fig. 12 a front elevation view of a display mirror arrangement according to the present disclosure, which is shown reflecting a rear view of a vehicle; and Fig. 13 a front elevation view of a display mirror arrangement according to the present disclosure, showing instructions for activating a display. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0007] The embodiments presented herein consist mainly of combinations of process steps and device components in connection with a display mirror. Accordingly, the device components and process steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, which show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of this disclosure, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that are readily apparent to the person skilled in the art who benefits from the description given herein. Furthermore, identical reference numerals in the description and the drawings represent identical elements.

[0008] For the purpose of description, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal" and derivatives thereof shall refer to the revelation as it appears in Fig. 1. Unless otherwise specified, the term "front" refers to the surface of the device that is closer to the intended viewer of the device, and the term "rear" refers to the surface of the device that is farther away from the intended viewer. However, it is understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations unless expressly stated otherwise. It is also understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following description are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the accompanying claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical orPhysical properties relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0009] The terms “include,” “comprise,” “comprehensive,” or any variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, procedure, article, or device that includes a list of elements may include not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such processes, procedures, articles, or devices. An element preceded by “includes…” does not, without further limitations, exclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, procedure, article, or device that includes the element.

[0010] With reference to Fig. Reference numeral 10 (1-3) generally designates a display mirror assembly for a vehicle. The display mirror assembly 10 comprises a partially reflective, partially transparent element 12 (hereinafter also referred to as a "glass element") and a display module 18 ( Fig. 6), which is viewed through the partially reflective, partially transparent element 12. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the display mirror arrangement 10 further includes a front shield 14 and a rear shield 16, which protect the partially reflective, partially transparent element 12 and the display module 18 ( Fig. 6) Shield and support. As in the Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the display module 18 generally comprises several components 20, including a display 22, an optical block 24, a heat sink 26, and a primary printed circuit board (PCB) 28. A housing 30 accommodates at least part of the front shield 14, the display module 18, and the rear shield 16, and includes a mounting element 32 extending rearward from it. The mounting element 32 is adapted for mounting on a vehicle windshield. The housing can be configured to form part of the outer profile of the semi-reflective, semi-transparent element.

[0011] With general reference to Fig. In the display mirror arrangement 10, a viewing area 40 is located on a front surface of a front substrate 42 of the glass element 12. The viewing area 40 can be rectangular, trapezoidal, or, for aesthetic reasons, any customer-specific shape.

[0012] With reference to Fig. Figure 4 shows the display mirror assembly 10 for a vehicle with components partially separated. The display mirror assembly 10 includes the glass element 12, the front shield 14 and the rear shield 16, which enclose the display module 18, the rear housing 30 and the mounting member 32. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figures 4-6, the front shield 14, the rear shield 16, and the components of the display module 18 incorporate various retention features to operably connect the multiple components of the display module 18 to the front shield 14, the rear shield 16, and to each other, and to support the display module 18. Specifically, the front shield 14 incorporates retention features to operably connect the front shield 14 to the display module 18, and the rear shield 16 incorporates retention features to operably connect the rear shield 16 to the display module 18. The retention features generally include snap connections, tab and slot connections, screw connections, and other known retention features. Some or all of the retention features may also be reinforced by the addition of adhesive. Some non-limiting illustrative examples of retention features are described in detail herein.

[0013] The display mirror arrangement 10 is described in more detail below, starting with the elements that are closest to the intended viewer and extending backwards away from the intended viewer.

[0014] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the glass element 12 is generally planar, with an outer circumference 46 and a boundary or rim around the outer diameter 46. The boundary may have a circumferential cover layer 48 or edge treatment or finishing, such as a chrome ring or similar finish, to cover a circumferential area of ​​the front shield 14 and other elements located behind the glass element 12 in the display mirror assembly 10, including, without limitation, a gasket on an electrochromic unit, an application, a foam adhesive, or pad printing. The boundary may extend from the outer circumference 46 of the glass element 12 to an outer edge 50 of the display 22. Alternatively, the boundary may be narrower and not extend from the outer circumference 46 to the outer edge 50 of the display 22 along at least some sections of the boundary.The outer circumference 46 of the glass element 12 can also have a ground edge, a framed edge or be frameless.

[0015] The glass element 12 can contain an electro-optic element or a prism-like structure. The prism-like structure generally includes a glass element 12 with a thickness that varies from top to bottom. In the case of an electro-optic element, the glass element 12 includes at least two glass substrates. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the glass element 12 includes, for example, the front substrate 42, which defines a first surface and a second surface, and a back substrate 51, which defines a third surface and a fourth surface. An electro-optic medium is arranged between the second surface of the front substrate 42 and the third surface of the back substrate 51. The electro-optic medium generally includes at least one solvent, at least one anodic material, and at least one cathodic material. Typically, both the anodic and cathodic materials are electroactive, and at least one of them is electrochromic. The term "electroactive" can be defined here as a material that undergoes a modification of its oxidation state upon exposure to or application of a specific electrical potential difference.Additionally, it is evident that the term "electrochromic" encompasses a material that exhibits a change in its extinction coefficient at one or more wavelengths when exposed to, or applied to, a specific electrical potential difference. Electrochromic components, as described herein, include materials whose color or opacity is influenced by electric current, such that the color or opacity changes from a first phase to a second phase when an electric current is applied to the material.

[0016] The electrochromic component disclosed herein may be a single-layer, single-phase component, a multi-layer component, or a multi-phase component, as in U.S. Patents Nos. 5,928,572 entitled "Electrochromic Layer and Devices Comprising Same," 5,998,617 entitled "Electrochromic Compounds," 6,020,987 entitled "Electrochromic Medium Capable of Producing a Pre-selected Color," 6,037,471 entitled "Electrochromic Compounds," 6,141,137 entitled "Electrochromic Media for Producing a Pre-selected Color," 6,241,916 entitled "Electrochromic System," 6,193,912 entitled "Near Infrared-Absorbing Electrochromic Compounds and Devices Comprising Same," and 6,249,369 entitled "Coupled Electrochromic Compounds With Photostable Dication Oxidation States” and 6,137,620 entitled “Electrochromic Media With Concentration Enhanced Stability, Process For The Preparation Thereof and Use In Electrochromic Devices”; US Patent Application No.2002 / 0015214 A1 entitled “Electrochromic Device”; and the international patent application serial no. PCT / US98 / 05570 entitled “Electrochromic Polymeric Solid Films, Manufacturing Electrochromic Devices Using Such Solid Films, And Processes For Making Such Solid Films And Devices”, PCT / EP98 / 03862 entitled “Electrochromic Polymer System”, and PCT / US98 / 05570 entitled “Electrochromic Polymeric Solid Films, Manufacturing Electrochromic Devices Using Such Solid Films, And Processes For Making Such Solid Films And Devices”, which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference. The glass element 12 can also be another element with partially reflective, partially transparent properties. To supply the glass element 12 with current, electrical elements are provided on opposite sides of the glass element 12 to generate an electrical potential between them.A J-Clip 54 is electrically engaged with each electrical element, and element wires extend from the J-Clip 54 to the primary PCB 28.

[0017] With current reference to the in Fig. 5 and Fig. In the embodiments shown in Figure 6, the front shield 14 and the rear shield 16 serve to shield the display module 18 from high-frequency (HF) electromagnetic radiation and to provide support for the glass element 12 and the display module 18. The front shield 14 is formed from one or more materials suitable for blocking HF radiation, including, without limitation, steel. As a non-limiting example, the front shield 14 can be formed from stamped steel material with a thickness of approximately 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm. In addition to preventing the emission of electromagnetic radiation, the front shield 14 and the rear shield 16 also protect the circuit arrangement of the device from electromagnetic interference (line interference).

[0018] With renewed reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. The front shield 14 is generally formed in the form of a ring 60 with an opening 62 through it. The front shield 14 has a front side 64, a back side 66, and an outer surface 68, which is generally coextensive with the outer circumference 46 of the glass element 12. The front shield 14 includes retaining features 70 that extend forward to mechanically engage the glass element 12. An adhesive, for example a foam adhesive 72, can also be used to fasten the glass element 12 to the front shield 14. The front shield 14 also includes rearward-facing tabs 74 to operably engage the rear shield 16 (or a component of the display module 18). The rearward-facing tabs 74 also include through holes 76 to allow at least one component of the display module 18, such as the optical block 24, to be operabically engaged.

[0019] As in Fig. As clearly shown in Figure 6, the display module 18 is arranged behind the front shield 14, with the display 22 visible through the opening 62 in the front shield 14. The components of the display module 18 are arranged from the front shield 14 to the rear shield 16 in the following order: display 22, optical block 24, heat sink 26, and primary PCB 28.

[0020] The display 22 is generally planar, with the outer edge 50 defining a front surface 78. The front surface 78 of the display 22 may be shaped to match and fit the shape of the viewing area 40 of the display mirror assembly 10. Alternatively, the display 22 may have a front surface 78 that fits within the viewing area 40 but is not complementary to it, for example, where the front surface 78 of the display 22 is generally rectangular and the front substrate 42 of the glass element 12 has a contoured outer perimeter 46. The distance between the outer edge 50 of the display 22 and the outer perimeter 46 of the glass element 12 is approximately 9 mm or less along at least one section of the outer edge 50. In one embodiment, the display 22 has a visible front surface 78 which comprises approximately 56% to approximately 70% of the viewing area 40 of the glass element 12.

[0021] The display 22 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), plasma, digital light processing (DLP), or other display technology. The display 22 further includes a flexible electrical connector 80, which is mechanically and electrically operable to the primary PCB 28. The flexible electrical connector 80 has a length L sufficient to extend over and enclose the components of the display module between the display 22 and the primary PCB 28, and has a width that extends substantially along the top edge 82 of the display 22. Ends of the flexible electrical connector 80 may be chamfered to simplify manufacturing. When connected to the primary PCB 28, the flexible electrical connector 80 contributes to securing or fixing the components along a top edge of the display module 18.

[0022] As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the optical block 24 comprises a front face 90, which faces the display 22, a rear face 92, which faces the heat sink 26, and an outer circumference 94. The optical block 24 further comprises tabs 96, which generally extend outwards from it around at least a section of the outer circumference 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the tabs 96 extend from the sides of the optical block 24. However, it is provided that the tabs 96 can be arranged at any desired location along the circumference of the optical block 24. The tabs 96 are received by the holes 76 in the rearward-facing tabs 74 of the front shield 14 in order to operably couple the optical block 24 to the front shield 14. The optical block 24 further comprises at least one receiving element 98 for receiving a mechanical fastening element on its rear face 92.The receiving elements 98 are adapted to engage with mechanical fastening elements 100, which are screwed through the rear shield 16 and the components of the display module 18 between the optical block 24 and the rear shield 16. In alternative embodiments, the tabs 96 for engaging the front shield 14, the screw receiving elements 98, or both could be provided on different components of the display module 18.

[0023] As in Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a glare sensor optic 102 is provided on the front face 90 of the optical block 24, positioned at a location that receives light through the glass element 12 and is not behind the display 22. The glare sensor optic 102 is snapped into a receiving opening 104 in the optical block 24. The glare sensor optic 102 receives light from the headlights of a following vehicle and measures information about the likely glare visible on the glass element 12. It communicates this information to the display mirror assembly 10, allowing the display mirror assembly 10 to be optimized to enable viewing of the display 22 through the glass element 12. The optical vertical / horizontal pattern of the glare sensor optic 102 is symmetrical, so the orientation of the glare sensor optic 102, as shown in its circular geometry, is irrelevant.The glare sensor optic 102 could also have an asymmetrical vertical / horizontal light detection pattern, in which case a coding feature would be integrated into the lens to verify correct alignment in the display mirror assembly 10. The glare sensor optic 102 could also be at least partially enclosed in the housing 30 of the display mirror assembly 10 and include a light guide configured to propagate or direct light to the glare sensor optic 102. The glare sensor optic 102 could also be an imager located at the rear of the vehicle, where a signal representative of the received light is communicated from the glare sensor optic 102 to the display mirror assembly 10.

[0024] With renewed reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 The heat sink 26 is located behind the optical block 24 and dissipates heat generated by the primary PCB 28 and other components of the display module 18. The heat sink 26 has a generally planar body 110 with a front face 112 and a top edge 114. A channel 116 extends along the top edge 114 of the heat sink 26 and defines a forward-facing opening 118. An edge-illuminated PCB 120 and a gap filler or thermal interface material or thermal paste 122 are partially located within the channel 116, with the edge-illuminated PCB 120 generally extending perpendicularly forward from the heat sink 26 and having an operable side facing downwards away from the top edge 114.The edge-lit PCB 120 includes wiring adapted for electrical connection to the primary PCB 28, enabling the supply of electrical power and signals to the edge-lit PCB 120. The gap filler 122 could be a gap filler pad, a thermally conductive epoxy resin, or another material used to increase or improve heat transfer from the edge-lit PCB 120 to the heat sink 26. A plurality of tabs 128 extend upwards from the top edge 114 of the heat sink 26 to engage mechanically with the back shield 16.

[0025] The heat sink 26 also includes at least one through-hole 130 to accommodate a mechanical fastener 100, which is screwed from the back shield 16 to the optical block 24. The mounting element 98 of the optical block 24 can optionally be raised to extend through the at least one hole 130 in the heat sink 26 and accommodate the mechanical fastener 100. The mounting element 98 of the optical block 24 can also contribute to the alignment of the components of the display module 18 during manufacturing and, if raised, will provide additional reinforcement for the display module 18 during component interaction. Furthermore, the mounting element 98 secures the components of the display module 18 to one another and helps maintain proper component spacing.

[0026] The primary PCB 28 serves to provide electrical power and control / regulation to the components of the display module 18 and the glass element 12. As shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the primary PCB 28 is generally planar, with a front face 140, a back face 142, and side edges 144. The front face 140 faces the heat sink 26, and the back face 142 faces the rear shield 16. Electrical components are generally oriented on both sides of the primary PCB 28. The primary PCB 28 includes an electrical connector for operative electrical connection to the electrical element wires of the glass element 12, an electrical connector for operative electrical connection to the flexible electrical connector 80, and an electrical connector for operative electrical connection to the wiring harness. Additional functional elements that may be provided on the display mirror assembly 10 may also be electrically connected to the primary PCB 28, such as the glare sensor optics 102 and other function keys or features of the display mirror assembly 10.The primary PCB 28 further includes lateral cutouts or recesses 150 along the side edges 144 to allow passage of the mechanical fasteners 100 which are used to attach the back shield 16 to the components of the display module 18.

[0027] With renewed reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. The back shield 16 also serves to enclose the display module 18 and to lock the components of the display mirror assembly 10. The back shield 16 acts to shield the display module 18 from RF radiation and conducted emissions. The back shield 16 is made of a material suitable for blocking this radiation and providing the necessary support or stability for the display mirror assembly 10, for example, steel. As a non-limiting example, the back shield 16 can be made of stamped steel with a thickness of approximately 0.2 to 1 mm. It is also possible to provide a welded or die-cast / pressed back shield 16.

[0028] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the back shield 16 comprises a rear wall 160 with an outer circumference 162 and a circumferential wall 164 extending forward from the rear wall 160 around or over at least a section of the outer circumference 162. The circumferential wall 164 has slots 166 that correspond to the projecting tabs 128 along the upper edge 114 of the heat sink 26 and can be mechanically engaged with them. The back shield 16 further comprises at least one hole 168 through it to receive or accommodate the mechanical fastening element 100, which extends through the back shield 16 and into the components of the display module 18 to fasten the back shield 16 to the display module 18.The mechanical fastening element 100 extends through the rear wall 160 of the rear shield 16, through the side recesses 150 of the primary PCB 28, through the heat sink 26, and is attached to the screw receptacle 98 on the rear 92 of the optical block 24.

[0029] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the rear housing 30 includes a forward-facing cavity 170 into which the front shield 14, the rear shield 16, and the display module 18 located between them are wholly or partially inserted. The rear housing 30 includes mechanical engagement features 172 that engage with corresponding engagement features 174 on the circumferential wall 164 of the rear housing 30 or on a component of the display module 18, such as the heat sink 26. The mounting element 32 engages with the rear housing 30 in a known manner.

[0030] With reference to the following description, the indicator mirror assembly 10 is considered "axial" if a line perpendicular to the plane of the glass element 12 extends to the eyes of an observer. Because the display 22 is viewed through the glass element 12, any glare at the glass element 12 can impair the visibility of the display 22. If the indicator mirror assembly 10 is axial and used during night driving, headlights from a following vehicle (i.e., a vehicle traveling behind the vehicle with the indicator mirror assembly 10) can cause visible glare for the driver. Traditional designs use an actuating device that is operabically coupled to the indicator mirror assembly 10. The actuating device may resemble the actuating device described in U.S. Patent No. 10,739,591, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference.When actuated, the actuating device moves at least the glass element 12 (and optionally other components of the display mirror assembly 10) off-axis (i.e., away from a direct line to the driver's field of vision). Typically, actuating the device tilts the glass element 12 upward to move the mirror to an off-axis position. However, it should be noted that the actuating device could be configured to move the mirror in any direction with respect to the axis. These actuating devices could also be configured to move the display 22 when actuated and to turn the display on or off. Thus, when the actuating device is actuated to move the mirror off-axis, the display 22 can be turned off.Typically, when the actuating device is activated, the display mirror assembly 10 rotates with the glass element 12 and the display 22, maintaining a constant distance between them. When the actuating device is activated, the mounting member 32 and the tilting or rocking plate do not move relative to the rest of the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, the glass element 12 and the display 22 are fixedly connected and do not move independently of each other. Alternatively, the glass element 12 could be configured to move independently of the display 22. To provide information to the viewer of the display mirror assembly 10, the assembly can additionally include information about the field of view 178, such as a semi-transparent graphic overlay or an image on the display 22, which is visible on or within the field of view 40 when the display mirror assembly 10 is in use.As explained in more detail below, the disclosed configuration allows the display 22 to be activated and deactivated by a user simply grasping the housing 30 of the display mirror assembly 10 and rotating the housing 30 up or down about a horizontal axis. This configuration eliminates the need for a toggle or rocker switch extending from the housing 30 of the display mirror assembly 10, thus providing a slimmer and more aesthetically pleasing rearview device.

[0031] To manufacture the display mirror assembly 10 described herein, the J-clips 54 are installed on the glass element 12, and then element wires are soldered to the upper section of the J-clips 54. The glass element 12 is then attached to the front side 64 of the front shield 14 using the foam adhesive 72 and the front retaining features 70 of the front shield 14. The front shield 14 is then turned over so that the glass element 12 faces downwards onto a protective surface.

[0032] A first sub-arrangement 180 ( Fig. 5), which includes the display 22 and the optical block 24, is assembled by snapping the glare sensor optic 102 into the receiving opening 104 in the optical block 24 and gluing the display 22 to the optical block 24. The bonding of the display 22 and the optical block 24 may involve coating the front side 90 of the optical block 24 with an adhesive and applying a release film over the adhesive, the release film being easily removable from the adhesive. At the time of assembly, the release film is removed, and the display 22 is positioned on the front side 112 of the optical block 24. To position the display 22, one edge of the display 22 is aligned with the corresponding position on the optical block 24, and then the display 22 is rotated into contact with the front side 90 of the optical block 24. The first sub-arrangement 180 is placed in position on the rear 66 of the front shield 14.The tabs 96 extending outwards from the optical block 24 are inserted through the holes 76 in the rearward-facing tabs 74 of the front shield 14.

[0033] A second sub-arrangement 182 ( Fig. 5), which includes the heat sink 26 and the edge-lit PCB 120, is assembled. To assemble the second sub-assembly 182, the gap filler 122 is glued to the edge-lit PCB 120. The gluing process may involve coating one side of the gap filler 122 with adhesive and then applying the gap filler 122 to the edge-lit PCB 120 so that it does not obstruct the operating side of the edge-lit PCB 120. The gap filler 122 and the edge-lit PCB 120 are then inserted into the opening in the channel 116 on the front face 112 of the heat sink 26. Positioning features or aids are optionally provided on the heat sink 26, the edge-lit PCB 120, or both to facilitate insertion of the edge-lit PCB and the gap filler 122 into the channel 116. The second sub-arrangement 182 is placed in position on the rear side 92 of the optical block 24.The screw mounting elements 98, which extend rearward from the optical block 24, extend through the holes 130 in the heat sink 26.

[0034] The primary PCB 28 is positioned above the top edge of the second sub-assembly 182, with its front face 140 facing upwards. The flexible electrical connector 80 from the display 22 is mated with its electrical connector. The primary PCB 28 is then rotated 180 degrees around the top edge of the second sub-assembly 182 so that its front face 140 is in contact with the heat sink 26. As the primary PCB 28 is rotated, the flexible electrical connector is wound around the top edge of at least one section of the display module 18. The element wires are electrically connected to their respective electrical connectors, and the wiring harness for the edge-lit PCB 120 is connected to its electrical connector.

[0035] As in Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the back shield 16 is placed over the primary PCB 28, and the tabs 128, which extend upwards from the heat sink 26, are engaged with the slots 166 on the circumferential wall 164 of the back shield 16. At least one screw 100 is inserted through the screw holes 168 in the back shield 16, through the lateral recesses 150 in the PCB, through the heat sink 26, and into the screw receptacles 98 on the optical block 24. It is desirable that two to three screws 100 be fastened in this way. Thermal studs or other mechanical fastening devices can be used for partial or pre-assembly.

[0036] The forward-facing cavity 170 of the rear housing 30 is positioned over the rear shield 16, and the mechanical engagement features 172 of the rear housing 30 engage with the corresponding engagement features 174 of the heat sink 26. The mounting element 32 can be installed in the rear housing 30 prior to assembly. It is understood that the mounting element 32 may include a ball bearing among other known designs.

[0037] The present disclosure can be used with a mounting system as described in U.S. Patents Nos. 8,814,373; 8,201,800; 8,210,695; 9,174,577; 8,925,891; 9,838,653; 8,960,629; 9,244,249 and U.S. Preliminary Patent Application No. 61 / 704,869, which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference. Furthermore, the present disclosure can be used with a rearview mirror housing arrangement as described in U.S. Patents Nos. 8,814,373; 8,646,924; 8,643,931; 8,264,761; 8,885,240; and 9,056,584 and the preliminary US patent application No. 61 / 707,625, which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference. It is further provided that the present disclosure may include an aperture as described in US patents Nos. 8,827,517; 8,210,695; and 8,201,800, which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference.

[0038] The display mirror arrangement according to the present disclosure offers several advantages. The display module is supported by the front and rear shields and does not require a separate support or mounting plate. Eliminating a mounting plate and integrating retaining features into the front and rear shields allows the display mirror arrangement to be lighter, requiring fewer parts for manufacturing, and providing a display that is visible over a larger percentage of the total viewing area of ​​the display mirror arrangement.

[0039] As in Fig. As shown in 7-9, the display mirror arrangement 10 can consist of one or more of the elements. Fig. 1-6 include, and the housing 30 can be modified to be part of the partially reflective, partially transparent element 12. With current reference to Fig. Figure 7 includes a cross-sectional view of a display mirror assembly comprising a partially reflective, partially transparent element 12, a display 22, an optical block 24, a heat sink 26, and a primary PCB 28. A housing 30 can at least partially accommodate the front shield 14, the display module 18, and the rear shield 16. An adhesive, such as a foam adhesive 72, but not limited to, can also be used to attach the glass element 12 to the front shield 14. The display module 18 and the optical block 24 can be supported by a carrier or support plate 202 instead of the front shield 14 and the rear shield 16. The wall material thickness of the support or backing plate 202 can be approximately 1.5 mm or alternatively have a thickness in the range of 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, which can increase the amount of visible area of ​​the display module 18 while maintaining sufficient support for the display mirror assembly 10.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively, as in Fig. As shown in Figures 8-11, the display mirror assembly 10 can include a sensor 400 that is operably coupled to an internal support or carrier 34 of the display mirror assembly 10. The sensor 400 is configured to detect changes in the angular position of the display mirror assembly 10. Generally, the sensor 400 is intended to be an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, etc., positioned within the housing 30 of the display mirror assembly 10. However, it is also intended that the sensor 400 can be positioned outside the housing 30. In some cases, it is intended that a sensor, such as the sensor 400, can be positioned near the mounting element 32 of the housing 30. In this case, the sensor 400 can measure a total rotation of the housing 30 relative to the mounting element 32.The rotation of the housing 30 is performed manually by a user, when the user grasps the housing 30 by hand and rotates the housing 30 up or down around a horizontal axis.

[0041] With renewed reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. In position 10, the display module 18 is active in the position shown, and image data collected by the imager is displayed on the screen 22. The display module 18 remains active during use. If a user wishes to deactivate the display module 18 and rely on the reflective quality or properties associated with the glass element 12, the user simply rotates the housing 30 of the display mirror assembly 10 manually downwards by a predefined angle. A rotation of the housing 30 between 2 and 7 degrees is intended to be sufficient to deactivate the display module 18. Fig. 8 displays the image data actively acquired by the image sensor on the display module 18. As shown, the housing 30, and consequently the display mirror assembly 10, is positioned such that the display 22 is generally perpendicular to the user's eyes. When the user grasps the housing 30 and rotates the housing 30, and consequently the display 22, downwards, the sensor 400 detects the rotation, and when the housing 30 has rotated a threshold distance ( Fig. 9), the display 22 deactivates and no further image data is provided. The user can then use the reflective ability or reflectivity of the glass element 12 to view a scene behind the vehicle. In Fig. 10 The housing 30 is slightly tilted upwards when the display 22 shows image data. In this case, a downward rotation by a certain amount or to a preferred angular position deactivates the display 22, and a user can use the reflective properties of the glass element 12 to see behind the vehicle ( Fig. 11) It is understood that the display mirror arrangement 10 described herein can be configured to activate upon an upward rotation of the housing 30, and consequently the display 22, by approximately 2 to 7 degrees. However, it is also provided that the display mirror arrangement 10 can be calibrated to activate the display upon a downward rotation of the housing 30, and consequently the display 22, by approximately 2 to 7 degrees. Furthermore, the activation of the display 22 can be set based on user preferences. More precisely, the display module 18 can be calibrated by a user to activate the display 22 when the housing 30 has been rotated a sufficient distance upward or downward, based on predetermined user preferences.

[0042] With current reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 shows a view of the scene behind the vehicle, outside the vehicle, below the display module, when the display mirror assembly 10 is in an elevated or raised position. If the user rotates the housing 30 of the display mirror assembly 10 downwards, the display 22 is deactivated and the reflective properties of the glass element 12 can be used by the user. If the user wishes to reactivate the display 22, they can manually rotate the housing 30 of the display mirror assembly 10 upwards. If the user does not rotate the display mirror assembly 10 to a sufficient degree, a message 500 is displayed on the display 22. Fig. 13), which indicates that the display 22 is only activated when the housing 30 has been rotated sufficiently upwards. The display 22 is only shown if one or more sensors 400 of the display mirror assembly 10 detect a movement of the housing 30. The movement can, for example, take the form of an adjustment of the mounting element 32, such as an adjustment of the ball relative to the ball holder, or it can be a detection of the relative angle of the housing 30 by the sensor 400.

[0043] With renewed reference to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11. The sensor 400 can be arranged inside the housing 30 on a lower section thereof. Sufficient rotation of the housing 30 relative to the mounting element 32 activates or deactivates the display 22. In one configuration, a control circuit monitors data provided by the sensor 400. The sensor 400 provides real-time data on the relative orientation of the housing 30 and, consequently, of the display module 18 and the display 22. As soon as a threshold requirement is met, which is linked to a position of the display 22 relative to the user's eyes, the display 22 is activated. Likewise, rotation in the opposite direction to a threshold requirement deactivates the display 22. Additionally or alternatively, an image sensor 410 can be arranged on a rear section of the display mirror assembly 10.The image sensor 410 communicates with the PCB 28 via a data line 412. The image sensor 410 can be configured to acquire image data relating to the relative position of a ball joint 420 of the mounting member 32. It is understood that one ball joint 422 and socket / receptacle 424 can be located on a rear wall of the housing 30, while the other ball joint / socket / receptacle extends from the windshield of a vehicle. When the ball joint 422 moves within the socket 424, image data is acquired, and when the ball joint 422 has moved a sufficient degree within the socket 424, the display 22 is activated or deactivated. In a case, for example, as in... Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 shows when the housing 30 is in an elevated or raised position ( Fig. 10), the display 22 is active. When the housing 30 is rotated, a larger part of the sphere 422 is exposed and no longer hidden in the receptacle 424. As soon as a sufficiently large part of the sphere 422 is exposed, the display 22 deactivates. It is understood that this process can also occur in reverse.

[0044] With current reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 The display mirror assembly 10 can contain the message 500 displayed on the display 22. The message 500 can be provided to transmit a relative position of the display module 18 relative to the mounting member 32 or the angular position of the display module 18. For example, when the vehicle and consequently the display module 18 of the display mirror assembly 10 are activated, the display 22 can display image data captured by the image sensor ( Fig. 12). In this way, the user knows that image data is being provided and does not have to rely on the reflective properties of the glass element 12. Alternatively, the display 22 can indicate to the user that the display mirror arrangement 10 is in a reflective position, so that a rear view of the scenery outside the vehicle is provided by the reflective properties of the glass element 12. As in Fig.As shown in Figure 13, the provided message 500 might read, for example, "TURN UP TO ACTIVATE THE DISPLAY" if the display module 18 is not at a sufficient angle to display image data from the image. However, message 500 can also provide the user with other, more specific instructions, such as "TURN ANOTHER 2 DEGREES TO ACTIVATE THE DISPLAY" or "TURN UP A LITTLE MORE." The messages provided here are for illustrative purposes only. It is intended that other messages can also be transmitted that correspond to the information to be conveyed to the user regarding the angular position of the display mirror assembly 10.

[0045] It is understood by the average person skilled in the art that the construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to a specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may consist of a wide variety of materials, unless otherwise described herein.

[0046] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display mirror arrangement for a vehicle includes an electro-optical element comprising a partially reflective, partially transparent front substrate with a rounded circumferential edge. The front substrate defines a first surface and a second surface. The electro-optical element also includes a back substrate defining a third surface and a fourth surface, and an electro-optical medium arranged between the front substrate and the back substrate. A mounting element is operably coupled to the vehicle and the electro-optical element. An imager is configured to acquire image data outside the vehicle. A display module is arranged adjacent to the back substrate and configured to display the image data acquired by the imager. A control orThe control circuit is configured to control and regulate the electro-optical element and the display module, as well as to drive and power them. A sensor is operably coupled to the electro-optical element and configured to monitor its rotation between axial and off-axis positions, and also to activate or deactivate the display module.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display module is configured to display messages that transmit a relative position of the display module relative to an assembly member.

[0048] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a control circuit activates a display module based on an output from a sensor.

[0049] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a sensor is an accelerometer.

[0050] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a control circuit deactivates a display module when a sensor has detected a downward rotation of between 2 degrees and 7 degrees.

[0051] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a control circuit activates a display module when a sensor has detected an upward rotation of between 2 degrees and 7 degrees.

[0052] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an assembly member includes a ball joint that is arranged adjacent to or near a back substrate.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display mirror arrangement for a vehicle comprises a housing without an axis-changing rocker or toggle switch and an electro-optical element that is operable between a brightened state and a dimmed state. The electro-optical element is supported or mounted within the housing. A display near the electro-optical element is at least partially visible through the electro-optical element. The housing can be rotated by a user to an off-axis position, which changes the activation state of the display. The housing can also be rotated by the user to an axial position, which likewise changes the activation state of the display.

[0054] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a plasma and a digital light processing (DLP) display element.

[0055] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the outer circumference of an electro-optic element is frameless.

[0056] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a display is in electrical communication or connection with an imager or image transmitter that is arranged on or at the rear of a vehicle.

[0057] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a rotation of a housing around a horizontal axis between 2 degrees and 7 degrees changes an activation state of a display.

[0058] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a display mirror arrangement for a vehicle includes an electro-optical element and a mounting element that is operationally coupled to the vehicle and the electro-optical element. An imager is configured to acquire image data outside the vehicle. A signal representing received light is transmitted from the imager to a control circuit, and the image data acquired by the imager is evaluated by the control circuit to determine potential glare on the electro-optical element. A display module is arranged adjacent to a back substrate and configured to display the image data acquired by the imager. The control circuit is configured to control and drive the electro-optical element and the display module.A sensor is operably coupled to the electro-optical element. The control circuit is configured to monitor a vertical rotation of the electro-optical element between an axial position, where the display module is activated, and an off-axis position, where the display module is deactivated.

[0059] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a display module is configured to display messages that transmit a relative position of the display module relative to an assembly member.

[0060] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a control circuit is configured to display messages that transmit a position of a display module only when an electro-optical element rotates vertically.

[0061] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a control or regulating circuit includes a functionality for switching off the activation and deactivation of a display module.

[0062] For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the direct or indirect connection of two components (electrical or mechanical). Such a connection may be stationary or movable. Such a connection may be achieved by integrally or integrally forming the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate elements as a single, unified body with each other or with the two components. Such a connection may be permanent or removable, unless otherwise specified.

[0063] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure, as shown in the exemplary embodiments, serve only for illustration. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations are described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art reading it will readily recognize that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, values ​​of parameters, assembly arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter presented. For example, elements shown to be integral or one-piece may be constructed from several parts, or elements shown to be multiple parts may be integral or one-piece.The system may be manufactured in one piece; the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied; the length or width of the structures and / or elements or connectors or other elements of the system may be varied; and the type or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and / or arrangements of the system may be manufactured from a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, and in a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made to the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without deviating from the essence of the present innovations.

[0064] It is understood that any described processes or steps within described processes can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of protection of this disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein serve illustrative purposes and are not to be understood as limiting. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

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[0016] US 6,193,912

[0016] US 6,249,369

[0016] US 6,137,620

[0016] US 2002 / 0015214 A1

[0016] US 98 / 05570

[0016] EP 98 / 03862

[0016] US 10,739,591

[0030] US 8,814,373

[0037] US 8,201,800

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[0037]

Claims

[1] Display mirror arrangement for a vehicle, the display mirror arrangement comprising: an electro-optical element that includes: a partially reflective, partially transparent front substrate with a rounded circumferential edge, wherein the front substrate defines a first surface and a second surface; a back substrate that defines a third surface and a fourth surface; and an electro-optical medium located between the front substrate and the The back substrate is arranged; a mounting element that is operably coupled to the vehicle and to the electro-optical element; an imager or image transmitter that is configured to capture image data outside the vehicle; a display module arranged adjacent to or near the back substrate, wherein the display module is configured to display the image data acquired by the image sensor, and wherein a control circuit is configured to control and drive the electro-optical element and the display module; and a sensor that is operably coupled with the electro-optical element and is configured to monitor the rotation of the electro-optical element between axial and off-axis positions and also to activate or deactivate the display module. [2] Display mirror arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the display module is configured to display messages that transmit a position of the display module relative to the mounting member. [3] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the control circuit activates the display module based on an output from the sensor. [4] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 1-3, wherein the sensor is an accelerometer. [5] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 1-4, wherein, when the sensor has detected a rotation between 2 degrees and 7 degrees downwards, the control circuit deactivates the display module. [6] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 1-5, wherein, when the sensor has detected a rotation between 2 degrees and 7 degrees upwards, the control circuit activates the display module. [7] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 1-6, wherein the mounting member includes a ball joint which is arranged adjacent or neighboring to the back substrate. [8] Display mirror arrangement for a vehicle, comprising: a housing without an axis change rocker or toggle switch; an electro-optical element that switches between an illuminated state and is operable in a darkened state, with the electro-optical element being supported or mounted within the housing; and a display located near the electro-optical element and at least partially visible through the electro-optical element, wherein the housing can be rotated by a user to an off-axis position, which changes an activation state of the display, and wherein the housing can also be rotated by the user to an axial position, which also changes the activation state of the display. [9] Display mirror arrangement according to claim 8, wherein the display comprises a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a plasma and a digital light processing (DLP) display element. [10] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein an outer circumference of an electro-optical element is frameless. [11] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 8-10, wherein the display is in electrical communication or connection with an imager or image transmitter which is arranged on or at a rear section of a vehicle. [12] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 8-11, wherein a rotation of the housing about a horizontal axis between 2 degrees and 7 degrees changes the activation state of the display. [13] Display mirror arrangement for a vehicle, the display mirror arrangement comprising: an electro-optical element; an assembly element that is operationally coupled to the vehicle and the electro-optical element; an imager configured to capture image data outside the vehicle, where a signal representing received light, is transmitted from the image sensor to a control or regulating circuit and where the image data captured by the image transmitter is controlled by the control or The control circuit is evaluated to determine possible glare on the electro-optical element; a display module arranged adjacent to a back substrate, wherein the display module is configured to display the image data acquired by the image sensor, and wherein the control circuit is configured to control and drive the electro-optical element and the display module; and a sensor that is operably coupled to the electro-optical element, wherein the control circuit is configured to monitor a vertical rotation of the electro-optical element between an axial position where the display module is activated and an off-axis position where the display module is deactivated. [14] Display mirror arrangement according to claim 13, wherein the display module is configured to display messages that transmit a position of the display module relative to the mounting member. [15] Display mirror arrangement according to claim 14, wherein the control circuit is configured to display messages that transmit the position of the display module only when an electro-optical element rotates vertically. [16] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 13-15, wherein the display module is in electrical communication or connection with an imager or image transmitter which is arranged on or at a rear section of the vehicle. [17] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 13-1, wherein a rotation of the electro-optic element about a horizontal axis between 2 degrees and 7 degrees changes an activation state of the display module. [18] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 13-17, wherein the control circuit includes a functionality for switching off an activation and deactivation of the display module. [19] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 13-18, wherein the display module includes a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a plasma and a digital light processing (DLP) display element. [20] Display mirror arrangement according to one of claims 13-19, wherein an outer circumference of the electro-optical element is frameless.

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