Rear-view device and vehicle

Abstract

A rear-view device 100 for use with a vehicle, comprising a pivot system with at least two elements or arms, 110, 120, 130, being movable with respect to each other by at least one hinge H1, H2; wherein the pivot system comprises: at least one sensor 150 to detect movement of the pivot system; and a control unit in operative connection with the sensor 150. The sensor 150 is configured to provide three or more different and / or non-binary output values, the control unit is adapted to determine if there is damage or potential damage to the rear-view device 100 based on the sensor output values. Also disclosed is a vehicle with at least one external rear view device 100. The sensor 150 may comprise a pressure switch 152, 154 for detecting pressure in at least one of the elements 110, 120, 130.

Description

11 04 25 The present disclosure relates to a rear-view device adapted to be used with a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, in line with the pre-amble of claim L It also relates to a vehicle with at least one such external rear view device. The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art. Generally, motor vehicles have a pair of external rear-view devices, like rear-view mirrors or rear-view camera arms, placed at either side of the vehicle to obtain a sight of the rear end of the vehicle. The rear-view devices are typically each an assembly of combination of mechanical or electro-mechanical components. Typically, the assembly is inclusive of a head that is designed to move, in either forward or rearward directions, about a substantially vertical pivot axis. The head or a part of the head is the component which is adjusted with respect to the driving position such that a rear-view of the vehicle is obtained, either manually or through a motor. In modern day vehicles, the camera-based systems are becoming increasingly popular. These vehicles typically include vision systems that have rear-view display devices with cameras and / or conventional mirrors. For example, in camera-based systems, the images of cameras on the left-hand side, right-hand side, the front and the back of the vehicle are shown to the driver, instead of, or in addition to conventional mirrors, in particular side-mirrors. The respective rearview display devices are usually attached to the vehicle using folding joints. Further, an arm of the system is required to have multiple positions, first being the driving position wherein the driver can see the field of view around the vehicle, second being a folded position wherein the head or arm is folded when not in use to avoid any physical damage when not in use or to minimize the width side of the vehicle during parking or wherever and whenever required, and 11 04 25 the third being a push back position wherein the arm is pushed away from the driving position to allow a room during an opposite impact or erroneous push to fold the arm. The folding joint enables forward folding and rearward folding of the rear-view device to avoid damages to the folding joint and / or to the rear-view display device upon impact of an external mechanical force. For example, during maneuvering the vehicle in constraint spaces, the rear-view display device might touch another car or a wall exerting an external force onto the folding joint. Due to the external force, the folding joint might then be folded in the forward or rearward direction. In case of electronic based actuation mechanism to change the position of the arm, there exist a plurality of solutions. Therefore, it is also important to know or being indicated about the current position of the arm or to be notified when the driving position is being changed; however, most solutions have associated drawbacks of inaccuracy in determining the change in position from the driving position or the existing systems are expansive and complex to be readily used. For example, a conventional folding joint is described by EP 1 498 314 Bl. Here, first and second hinge sections are interconnected where the first hinge section is mounted in a rotatable manner to the second hinge section. However, the overall height of the joint is fairly large making the shape of the folding joint rather bulky. EP 3 375 665 Bl discloses a bi-directional folding mechanism for an exterior mounted camera system. The folding mechanism is intended to protect the camera assembly in the event of a collision with an obstacle. The disclosed assembly consists of and / or comprises a first housing to store the camera system and a second housing system that connects to a vehicle. The first housing is pivotally connected to the second housing unit by means of a first pivot connection and a second pivot connection to define a first axis and second axis respectively. DE 10 2018 116 836 B4 discloses a rear-view device for a motor vehicle. The device comprises a first axis and a second axis. Wherein the device is pivotally connected about the first axis to enable rotation in a first direction, and is pivotally connected about the second axis to enable rotation in a second direction. This enables the rear-view device to fold upon impact with an external force, thus reducing damage to the device. WO 2022 / 034238 Al relates to a camera pod stabilization assembly, comprising an intermediate attachment; wherein the intermediate attachment comprises a first end and a second end; a camera arm wherein the camera arm is pivotably coupled to the intermediate attachment at the first end via a first pin to form a first axis; and a base wherein the base is pivotably coupled to the intermediate attachment at the second end via a second pin to form a second axis; and a vehicle comprising the camera pod stabilization assembly. EP 3 964 396 Al discloses a generic rear-view device. It describes a folding joint for attaching a rear-view display device to a vehicle, comprising two hinge sections each of which is adapted to rotate relative to the vehicle, with each of the hinge sections comprised on a first end and a second end of an intermediate attachment; a biasing element comprising a spring, a coil, a wave spring, and / or elastic member for biasing at least one of the one or more hinge sections in response to rotation of the folding joint, with the biasing element biasing at least one member, in particular in form of a spring biased cam section and a biased clamping bolt, the intermediate attachment comprised by the hinge sections, a first protruding member, and a second receiving cavity; a rear-view display arm pivotably coupled to the intermediate attachment at the first end to form a first axi, the rear view- display arm comprising a first receiving cavity to receive the first protruding member; and a base pivotably coupled to the intermediate attachment at the second end and forming a second axis, the base comprising a second protruding member that is received by the second receiving cavity. KR 20160033469 A relates to a rollover sensing apparatus of a vehicle using a side-view mirror and a rollover sensing method and, more specifically, provides a rollover sensing apparatus of a vehicle using a side-view mirror and a rollover sensing method, wherein rollover of a vehicle can be detected to operate a passenger protection system through a current detection sensor mounted in the side-view mirror and a Y-axis sensor of an airbag control device connected to the side-view mirror. US 2017 / 0313249 Al teaches a device for adjusting a shell-shaped housing part, for a mirror device for a motor vehicle, comprising a base part, for attachment to a body of the motor vehicle, on which, with the aid of a first hinge construction a supporting frame is arranged, further comprising a first actuator with which the supporting frame is pivotable relative to the base part about a first hinge axis extending in a substantially upward direction between a folded-in position, in which the supporting frame substantially abuts along the body of the motor 11 04 25 vehicle, and a folded-out position, in which the supporting frame is oriented substantially transversely to the body, while on the supporting frame a support, for supporting a mirror surface, is arranged with the aid of a second hinge construction, the device furthermore comprising a second actuator with which the support is pivotable relative to the supporting frame, said support being pivotable relative to the supporting frame only about a second hinge axis extending substantially transversely to the substantially upward direction. US 2017 / 0136950 Al refers to a wing minor unit for a motor vehicle, comprising: a mirror housing support for attachment to a body of the motor vehicle; a mirror housing supported by the minor housing support and pivotably arranged with respect to said support around a rotation axis extending substantially in an upward direction; and a drive for pivoting the mirror housing between a folded-out position of the minor housing, in which the minor housing extends substantially in a direction away from the body of the motor vehicle, and a folded-in position of the mirror housing, in which the mirror housing proj ects less far and extends in a substantially rearward direction more alongside the body of the motor vehicle, and / or for pivoting the minor housing between the folded-in position and the folded-out position, wherein the wing minor unit further comprises a rotation sensor having a sensor axis, and wherein the wing mirror unit is arranged for rotating the sensor axis during a limited part of the pivoting route between the folded-out position and the folded in position and / or during a limited part of the pivoting route between the folded-in position and the folded-out position. US 5,337,190 A is directed to a retractable rear under view mirror system mounted rearward of an automotive vehicle in which a rear under field of view from a driver's seat is invisible for ensuring the rear under field of view from the driver's seat, comprising: a base member provided rearward of said automotive vehicle; a mirror assembly movably supported by said base member and selectively positionable from a stored position inside said base member to a use position in which the mirror assembly reflects the rear under field of view of the vehicle; actuating means for actuating said mirror assembly to be positioned in said stored position or said use position; detection means for detecting at least an operating condition of a component out of a plurality of components of said automotive vehicle; and control means for controlling said actuating means to move said mirror assembly to a position responsive to said operating condition of said component, wherein said control means includes; output determination means for determining an output state of said detection means; and relative position determination means for determining a position of said mirror assembly relative to said base member; and 11 04 25 wherein said control means controls said actuating means in response to said relative position and said output state. In view of the drawbacks in the existing state of the art, it is desirous to have an effective solution for detecting the change in position of a rear-view device that in particular eliminates the need to have a wider gap between a rear-view module and a case frame when the rear-view device is formed. Thus, it is the object of the present disclosure to further develop the known rear-view device to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art. This object is achieved by the characterizing features of claim 1. Preferred embodiments of the rear-view device of the present invention are described in claims 2 to 43. Thus, a rear view device of the present invention comprises a pivot system with at least two elements, being movable with respect to each other by at least one hinge section; wherein the pivot system comprises at least one sensor in operative connection with the pivot system configured to detect at least one movement of the pivot system and / or at least one of the elements, wherein the sensor is further configured to provide over a first value range three or more different and / or non-binary output values. The rear-view device is an external rear-view device. According to an embodiment the sensor may be in operative connection with the hinge section and / or with at least one first element and / or at least one second element. In another aspect, the output values may be analogue, analogue discrete and / or digital values. The pivot system further comprises at least one control unit in operative connection with the sensor, wherein the control unit is configured to determine whether the output values are in at least one predefined second value range and / or at least two of the output values are sensed in at least one predefined first timeframe. It is further proposed, that the first element may be configured to be releasably and / or fixedly coupled to the vehicle, preferably by being comprised and / or formed by a main body of the vehicle and / or fixed relative to a main body of e vehicle; and / or the second element may be 11 04 25 coupled to the first element, and / or the main body of the vehicle by at least one first hinge section. In another embodiment the first element, comprising and / or being formed as a first arm, may be movable relative to a main body of the vehicle; and / or the second element, preferably comprising and / or being formed as a second arm, may be movable relative to a main body of the vehicle. According to one aspect, the first arm may be configured to be coupled to the vehicle, either directly or indirectly; and the second arm may be movably connected to the first arm via the first hinge section. Further, the first and / or second element may be adapted to accommodate at least one reflective element, camera module and / or display element. It is proposed, that the sensor may be configured to detect pivotal movement of the second element with respect to the first element. According to the present invention the control unit is adapted to determine based on at least one of the output values provided by the sensor whether the rear-view device is in a first position in form of a driving position depending on at least one first output value provided by the sensor, being within a first predefined value range, at least one of the output values is an abnormal output value indicating a potential damage of the rear-view device, if an output value is not within a second value range, at least two of the output values are abnormal output values indicating a potential damage of the rear-view device, if two output values are sensed in a second timeframe being longer or shorter than the first timeframe, and / or the rear view device is in a damaged condition or might be in a damaged condition depending on at least one second output value, wherein the at least one second output value is outside the second value range and / or the at least one second output value comprises a plurality of second output values, wherein at least one third timeframe between the two second output values does not match the second timeframe, iby being longer or shorter than the second timeframe. According to one aspect, the sensor may be disposed within the pivot system. 11 04 25 In another aspect, the first arm may comprise at least one first first-arm end and at least one second first-arm end, wherein the first first-arm end is configured with at least one first protruding member, and the first protruding member comprises at least one first first arm recess. The second element may be connected to the first element via the first hinge section, and / or the second element may comprise at least one first second-arm end, in particular forming part of or being connected to the first hinge section and at least one second second-arm end, wherein in particular the first second-arm end is pivotally coupled to the first protruding member of the first element to form the first hinge section for allowing a first, preferably pivotal, movement, and in particular the first element, preferably the first arm, and the second element, preferably the second arm, form a single unit during the first, preferably pivotal, movement. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be provided with at least one third element, preferably comprising and / or being formed as a third arm, adapted to accommodate at least one reflective element, camera module and / or display element and / or pivotally connected to the second element, preferably being the second arm, via at least one second hinge section for allowing a second, preferably pivotal, movement, with in particular the second element and the third element forming a single unit during the second, preferably pivotal, movement. Further embodiments of the present disclosure may be provided with at least one biasing element, coupled between the first element and the second element; and / or to the first hinge section for biasing at least the first movement. According to another embodiment, the biasing element may be coupled between the first hinge section and the second hinge section for biasing one or both of the first movement and the second movement. The third element may comprise at least one first third-arm end and at least one second third-arm end; wherein the first third-arm end is configured with a second protruding member; the second protruding member comprises at least one first third arm recess; and the second protruding member is pivotally coupled to the second second-arm end to form the second hinge section allowing the second pivotal movement of the third element. 11 04 25 It is further proposed, that the sensor may be in operative connection with, in particular disposed at, the first element, the second element, and / or the first hinge section, and / or one or two ends of the biasing element, in particular in order to sense at least one force, in particular a pressure force, and / or a force acting on the biasing element; and / or the second element, preferably coupled to the biasing element, and is configured to detect at least movement of the second element with respect to the first element. According to one aspect, the sensor may be in operative connection with, in particular disposed at, the first element, the third element, the first hinge section and / or the second hinge section; one or two ends of the biasing element, in particular in order to sense at least one force, in particular a pressure force and / or a force acting on the biasing element; and / or the second element, preferably coupled to the biasing element, and may be configured to detect movement of one of the second element along with the third element with respect to the first element, and the third element with respect to the first element and the second element. The sensor may comprise at least one pressure sensor, at least one torsion-based sensor, at least one strain sensor, wherein preferably the strain sensor is coupled to the biasing element, advantageously in form of at least one coiled spring, and senses values relating to strains or compressions of the biasing element, at least one movement sensor, at least one piezoelectric sensor, at least one shape-memory based torsion sensor, at least one electromagnetic induction sensor, and / or any capacitive, electro-magnetic, electronic or mechanical sensor means. The pressure sensor may comprise at least one first pressure switch and at least one second pressure switch, wherein preferably the first pressure switch, when being in operative connection with the second or third element, is adapted to detect a pressure relating to the movement of the second or third element relative to the first or second element, wherein preferably the detected pressure is above or below a first threshold value and / or no pressure value, preferably related to a negative pressure of a tractive force, or a pressure of equal or below 150N, more preferably between 50N and 70N, or 70N and 90N, or 90N and 120N, or 70N and 120N, or 90N and 150N, or 90N and 150N; and / or the second pressure switch, when being in operative connection with the first or second element, is adapted to detect a pressure relating to the movement of the first or second element relative to the second or third element, wherein preferably the detected pressure is above or below a second, preferably the first, threshold value and / or no pressure value, preferably related to a negative pressure of a tractive 11 04 25 force, or a pressure of equal or below 150N, more preferably between 50N and 70N, or 70N and 90N, or 90N and 120N, or 70N and 120N, or 90N and 15 ON, or 90N and 15 ON; preferably such that the pressure sensor provides at least one pressure output value above or below a third, preferably the first and / or second, threshold value and / or relating to at least one no pressure value, preferably without the first and / or second movement, representing a driving position. According to one aspect, the first pressure switch, when extending into the first third arm recess of the second protruding member, may detect a pressure above or below the first threshold value and / or no pressure value, related to a negative pressure of a tractive force, or a pressure of equal or below 150N, more preferably between 50N and 70N, or 70N and 90N, or 90N and 120N, or 70N and 120N, or 90N and 150N, or 90N and 150N; and / or the second pressure switch, when extending into the first first arm recess of the first protruding member, detects a pressure above or below the second, preferably the first, threshold value and / or no pressure value, preferably related to a negative pressure of a tractive force, or a pressure of equal or below 150N, more preferably between 50N and 70N, or 70N and 90N, or 90N and 120N, or 70N and 120N, or 90N and 150N, or 90N and 150N; preferably such that the pressure sensor provides at least one pressure output value above or below the third, preferably the first and / or second, threshold value and / or relating to at least one no pressure value without the first and / or second movement representing a driving position. According to another aspect, the control unit may determine that the rear-view device is in the driving position when both the first pressure switch and the second pressure switch detect a pressure being above or below at least one fourth, preferably the first, second or third, threshold value and / or a no pressure value, preferably related to a negative pressure of a tractive force, or a pressure of equal or below 150N, more preferably between 50N and 70N or 70N and 90N or 90N and 120N or 70N and 120N or 90N and 150N or 90N and 150N; and / or and the rear-view device has departed from the driving position when any change of any or both of the pressure value(s) is above or below the fourth threshold, and / or no pressure value of the first pressure switch and the second pressure switch is detected. It is further proposed, that at least one hinge section may be formed by at least one protruding member and one arm end, provided by the first, second and / or third element, wherein the hinge section comprises at least two position identifying sections, in particular in form of recesses. 11 04 25 According to another embodiment, the recesses may be separated by at least one elevated curved portion. The third element may comprise at least one second third arm recess and a first elevated curved portion in the second protruding member, wherein the first third arm recess and the second third arm recess are separated by the first elevated curved portion, and / or the first element comprises at least one second first arm recess and a second elevated curved portion in the first protruding member, wherein the first first arm recess and the second first arm recess are separated by the second elevated curved portion. Embodiments of the present disclosure may require that the third element moves with respect to the first element and the second element to a folding position of the rear-view device and preferably into an end position of the folding position of the rear-view device after completion of the second movement, and / or the second element and the third element move with respect to the first element to a push-back position of the rear-view device and preferably into an end position of the push-back position of the rear-view device after completion of the first movement, and / or the third element moves with respect to the first element and the second element and the second element moves with respect to the first element to a unfolded position of the rear-view device and preferably into an end position of the unfolded position of the rearview device after completion of the first movement and the second movement. According to another aspect, the first pressure switch, when extending into one of the recesses, preferably the second third arm recess of the second protruding member, may detect a first pressure value, preferably related to a pressure between 150N and 600N, and / or the second pressure switch, when extending into one of the recesses, preferably the first first arm recess of the first protruding member, may detect a no pressure value or a second pressure value, preferably related to a pressure between 150N and 600N, preferably such that the pressure sensor provides a third pressure output value representing the folding position. It may also be that first pressure switch, when extending into one of the recesses, preferably the first third arm recess of the second protruding member, detects a no pressure value or a fourth pressure value, preferably related to a pressure between 150N and 600N, and / or the second pressure switch, when extending into one of the recesses, preferably the second first arm recess of the first protruding member, detects a fifth pressure value, preferably related to a pressure 11 04 25 between 150N and 600N, preferably such that the pressure sensor provides a sixth pressure output value representing the push-back position. In a further embodiment, the pressure switch, when extending into one of the recesses, preferably the second third arm recess of the second protruding member, may detect a seventh pressure value, preferably related to a pressure between 150N and 600N, and / or the second pressure switch, when extending into one of the recesses, preferably the second first arm recess of the first protruding member, detects an eighth pressure value, preferably related to a pressure between 150N and 600N, preferably such that the pressure sensor provides a ninth pressure output value representing the unfolded position. In further embodiments of the present disclosure the sensor may be configured to detect hinge movements around the hinge section, advantageously the first hinge section, the second hinge section and / or both, in particular to determine the change in position of the rear-view device of the vehicle and / or the sensor may be configured to detect the hinge movements by sensing the state, in particular the pressure state, of the biasing element, wherein the biasing element may comprise preferably at least one hydraulic spring and / or at least one coiled spring, and / or the control unit is adapted to determine the driving position, the folding position, the unfolded position and the push-back position. According to another embodiment the rear-view device may be connected to or may comprise at least one storage device; and / or the sensor, preferably the pressure sensor comprising the first pressure switch, preferably exposed to one of the elevated curved portions, preferably the first elevated curved portion, and the second pressure switch, preferably exposed to one of the elevated curved portions, preferably the second elevated curved portion, and / or the biasing element is pre-configured with a pre-defined pressure, preferably defining the driving position, for allowing the determination of the position of the rear-view device preferably caused by the at least one movement, wherein preferably at least one pressure value below the pre-defined pressure value, preferably indicating a damaged biasing element, and / or a time of reaching positions, in particular defined by the position identifying sections, preferably recesses, and / or at least one outlier value of the expected course of pressure values, preferably related to more than 600N, sensed by the sensor indicates that the rear view device is or might be in a damaged condition, wherein optionally the control unit determines that the rear view device is or might be in the damaged condition and wherein optionally the information about the damaged or 11 04 25 potential damage state of the rear view device is indicated to the driver in form of a warning; wherein preferably one of the elevated curved portions, preferably the first elevated curved portion, causes a first course of pressure values sensed by the sensor and preferably stored to the storage device, and / or one of the elevated curved portions, preferably the second elevated curved portion, causes a second course of pressure values sensed by the sensor and preferably stored to the storage device; and / or wherein preferably the sensor is adapted to sense the, preferably different, first and / or second courses of pressure, preferably caused by the first and / or second movement and the elevated curved portion, preferably the first elevated curved portion and the second elevated curved portion. It may also be that the first pressure switch comprises at least one piston and / or at least one elastic element; the second pressure switch comprises at least one cylinder, in particular housing at least a part of the piston, and / or at least one elastic element; and / or at least one of the first and / or second pressure switch is connected to the sensor, either directly or indirectly, in particular via at least one spring and / or an elastic element. It is further proposed, that a first sensor may be adapted to determine the pressure values of the first pressure switch caused by at least one elevated curved portion, preferably the first elevated curved portion, and a second sensor is adapted to determine the pressure values of the second pressure switch, caused by at least one elevated curved portion, preferably the second elevated curved portion; the biasing element comprises two springs, in particular being coiled springs, wherein preferably the two springs are arranged on at least one biasing member seat and wherein preferably the biasing member seat is fixedly connected to the second arm preferably such that the two springs work independently from each other; the biasing member comprises at least one spring, preferably being a coiled spring, wherein the spring is fixed, preferably in the middle between both ends of the spring, to the second arm, such that the fixing defines a left and a right side of the spring, wherein the left and right side of the spring work independently from each other; a warning is shown to the driver if the sensor senses that the rear view device is not in the driving position; and / or calibration data is stored on the storage device, preferably comprising an ideal first course of pressure values and an ideal second course of pressure values and optionally at least one limit value indicating that each pressure value higher than the limit value might indicate an outlier value. 11 04 25 Further, it is provided a vehicle with a control unit and at least one external rear view device as outlined above, wherein optionally the sensor is connected to the control unit, and / or the external rear view device may comprise at least one output device, preferably comprising at least one monitor, configured to display at least one static image, dynamic image video or a combination thereof, as optionally at least partially obtained by the camera module, wherein preferably the output device is arranged outside the vehicle, preferably at the rear-view device and / or inside the vehicle, preferably at an A-pillar and / or dashboard, and / or wherein preferably the output device is adapted to show the warning, preferably in form of at least one “STOP” symbol, of the damaged and / or potential damaged condition of the rear view device. Embodiments of the present disclosure may require that the warning is shown in the upper part, preferably on the top at the outer aspheric comer edge, overlaying at least partly the shown image of the output device; the warning is in form of a rear view device movement, such as moving to the folding position; and / or the warning comprises interrupting the power supply of the rear view device and / or stopping to record with the camera module and / or stopping to display the recorded images. In general, the pivot system does not only include pivoting bearings, but every kind of movable coupling systems such as joint bearings as well as spherical bearings. For the purpose of this disclosure the term non-binary output values has to be understood such that the sensor provides more than two different signals. In particular this is in contrast to the output signals of a switch, e.g. a micro-switch, that provides binary signals in form of no signal (switch open) or a signal (switch closed). The term analogue values has to be understood such that within a value range the values can have any numeric value whereas the term analogue discrete values has to be understood such that the values can only be specific discrete numeric values within the value range. The term analogue means that the value is represented by physical quantity that generally can have any numeric value within a predefined range whereas the term digital has to be understood that the value that can also have any numeric value is represented by a sequence of discrete signals. It should be understood that any one of the described features and / or embodiments of the disclosure may be used separately or in combination with other disclosed features and / or embodiments. The present disclosure itself, together with further features and attended advantages, will become apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are described in the following, by way of example only, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which: 11 04 25 Figure 1 illustrates a top-view of a rear-view device of a vehicle in a driving position, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2a illustrates a partial-cross-sectional top-view of the rear-view device of Figure 1, in the driving position; Figure 2b illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the Figure 2; Figure 3 illustrates another partial-cross-sectional top-view of the rear-view device of Figure 1, in a position in-between the driving position and a folding position; Figure 4 illustrates a partial-cross-sectional top-view of the rear-view device of Figure 1 in a folding position; Figure 5 illustrates another partial-cross-sectional top-view of the rear-view device of Figure 1 in a position in-between the driving position and a push-back position. Figure 6 illustrates a partial-cross-sectional top-view of the rear-view device of Figure 1 in the push-back position; Figure 7 illustrates a top-view of a rear-view device of a vehicle in a folding and push-back position Figure 8a illustrates a partial cross-sectional top-view of a strain sensor arrangement; Figure 8b illustrates a partial cross-sectional top-view of a sensor arrangement comprising a cylinder and a piston; 11 04 25 Figure 8c illustrates a partial cross-sectional top-view of a sensor arrangement comprising a biasing element seat; Figure 9a illustrates a top-view of a rear-view device of a vehicle in a position in-between the driving position and a push-back position comprising two accelerometers; and Figure 9b illustrates a top-view of a rear-view device of a vehicle in a position in-between the driving position and a folding position comprising two accelerometers. The drawings referred to in this description are not to be understood as being drawn to scale except if specifically noted, and such drawings are only exemplary in nature. Before explaining embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all features of a commercial embodiment are shown for the sake of clarity and understanding. Persons of skill in the art will also appreciate that the development of an actual commercial embodiment incorporating aspects of the present disclosures will require numerous implementation—specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial embodiment. While these efforts may be complex and time-consuming, these efforts nevertheless would be a routine undertaking for those of skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. For example, the use of a singular term, such as, "a" is not intended as limiting of the number of items. Also, the use of relational terms, such as but not limited to, "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "down," "up," "side," are used in the description for clarity in specific reference to the Figures and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or the appended claims. Further, it should be understood that any one of the features of the disclosure may be used separately or in combination with other features. Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the 11 04 25 disclosure will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the Figures and the detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the present disclosure, and be protected by the accompanying claims. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that the disclosure disclosed herein is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. According to the present disclosure, the rear view device 100 may be in a plurality of positions. Hereinafter, the first position is defined as the driving position, which is shown in Figures 1 and 2a. The first position may be used if a vehicle is in a driving state. The second position is defined as the folding position, which is shown in Figure 4, wherein Figure 3 shows an intermediate position of the driving position and the end position of the folding position. The second position may be used in a parking state of a vehicle or to reduce the width of a vehicle. Preferably, the second position may be achieved by an electric motor. The second position may also occur if during a forward travel of the vehicle an obstacle being located in front of the vehicle hits the rear view device 100. The third position is defined as the push-back position, which is shown in Figure 6, wherein Figure 5 shows an intermediate position of the driving position and the end position of the push-back position. For example, this position may occur if another vehicle overtaking the vehicle hits the rear view device 100. The fourth position is shown in Figure 7 and defined as the unfolded position. This position may in particular occur due to forces acting sub sequentially on the rear view device from opposite directions, in particular opposite directions relative to a direction of travel of the vehicle, as outlined above. The driving position may be a fixed position, wherein the folding, the push-back as well as the unfolded position are defined as positions occurring by a movement of at least one arm of the rearview device 100 in particular by means of one or two hinges (Hl, H2). Thus, for the second, third and fourth positions there is a range of positions defined by the possible movement of the hinge sections (Hl, H2). This is shown in exemplary nature in the Figures 3 and 4 as well as 5 and 6. The final positions of the folding, unfolded and push-back movement are additionally referred to as end positions. 11 04 25 Figures 1, Figure 2a and Figure 2b, illustrates an embodiment of a rear-view device 100 of a motor vehicle (not shown) according to the present disclosure. The rear-view device 100 of the embodiment of Figures 1, Figure 2a and Figure 2b comprises a first element in form of a first arm 110, a second element in form of a second arm 120, a third element in form of a third arm 130, a biasing element 140, a pressure sensor 150, and a control unit (not shown). In an embodiment, the first arm 100 is a base member coupled to the vehicle, and the third arm 130 is a camera / mirror holding arm configured to accommodate at least one reflective, display and / or camera module 160. Further, the second arm 120 is an intermediate arm configured to hingably couple the first arm 110 and the third arm 130. The first arm 110 is fixedly or detachably attached to the vehicle. According to various embodiments the first arm 110 may be pivotable relative to the vehicle. The first arm 110 comprises a first first-arm end 112 and a second first-arm end 114. The first first-arm end 112 is configured with a first protruding member 116, and the first protruding member 116 comprises a first first arm recess C2. The second arm 120, comprises a first second-arm end 122 and a second second-arm end 124. The first second-arm end 122 is pivotally coupled to the first protruding member 116 of the first arm 110 to form a first hinge section Hl allowing a first pivotal movement. The first arm 110 and the second arm 120 form a single unit during the first pivotal movement. The second arm 120 and the third arm 130 form a single unit during a second pivotal movement. The third arm 130, comprises a first third-arm end 132 and a second third-arm end 134. The first third-arm end 132 is configured with a second protruding member 136 and the second protruding member 136 comprises a first third arm recess Cl. According to the embodiment of Figure 1, the camera holding third arm 130 is adapted to accommodate one camera module 160 as shown. According to various embodiments a plurality of camera modules 160 may be accommodated by the third arm 13. The camera module 160, is configured to capture a field-of-view FOV in a scenery at least around the vehicle. The camera module 160 may comprise a high-resolution camera configured 11 04 25 to take night and day images as may be required for viewing rear end, front end or 360-degree view of the vehicle. The display unit, which may be attached to the third arm 130 in addition or as alternative to the camera module 160, may comprise an electronic display to provide an output device configured to display a static image, a dynamic image video or a combination thereof, as at least partially obtained via the camera module 160. The display unit may inter-alia include a Liquid crystal display LCD and a Light-emitting diode LED display. The output device, in particular the electronic display, may be arranged outside the vehicle, such as the rear view device, and / or inside the vehicle, such as the A-pillar and / or the dashboard. The third arm 130 moves with respect to the first arm 110 and the second arm 120 to a folding position of the rear-view device 100 after completion of the second pivotal movement (shown e.g. in Figure 3). The second arm 120 and the third arm 130 move with respect to the first arm 110 to a push-back position of the rear-view device 100 after completion of the first pivotal movement (shown in Figure 5). The biasing element 140, as used hereinabove, is coupled between the first hinge section Hl and a second hinge sensation H2 for biasing one or both of the first pivotal movement and the second pivotal movement. The biasing element 140 may include, but is not limited to a spring member or an elastic member to bias the effect or movement of the arms in one direction during the first hinge pivotal movement, the second hinge pivotal movement or both. The pressure sensor 150 of the embodiment of Figures 2a, 2b, 3, 4, 5, and 6 are just shown in a schematic nature and may be disposed at the second arm 120 and / or at the first arm 110 and may comprise a first pressure switch 152 and a second pressure switch 154. Preferred embodiments of a sensor arrangement are shown in particular in Figures 7a and 7b. The first and second pressure switch 152, 154 are mechanically linked with the biasing element 140, such that the force of actuating the biasing element corresponds to the sensed pressure of the sensor 150 comprising the first and second switch 152, 154. When the first pressure switch 152 is configured at the first third arm recess Cl of the second protruding member 136, the first pressure switch 152 detects a pressure below a first threshold value and / or no pressure value. Similarly, when the second pressure switch 154 is configured at the first first arm recess C2 of 11 04 25 the first protruding member 116, the second pressure switch 154 detects a pressure below a second, preferably the first, threshold value and / or no pressure value. Further, the second protruding member 136 is pivotally coupled to the second second-arm end 124 to form the second hinge H2 section allowing the second pivotal movement of the third arm 130. The control unit, as used hereinabove, is configured to determine the rear-view device 100 to be in the driving position when both the first pressure switch 152 and the second pressure switch 154 may detect a pressure below a first and / or second, preferably the first, threshold value and / or no pressure value, wherein any change or no change in the pressure value of any or both of the first pressure switch 152 and the second pressure switch 154 may correspond to a change of the rear-view device 100 from the driving position. Meaning thereby, the sensor 150, in particular the first and second switch 152, 154, may be installed with a prestress, such that detecting a pressure below a first and / or second, preferably the first, threshold value and / or no pressure value may be associated with detecting the pressure of the preconfigured prestress level of the driving position. Any change to the pressure value at an instance may be configured to indicate a condition change of the rear-view device 100 or alternatively, no change of the pressure value for a predefined time may be configured to indicate a condition change of the rear-view device. According to various embodiments, the first and / or second, preferably the first, threshold value and / or no pressure value may be defined by at least one of the recesses C1,C2, C3 or C4. Thus, any change of the pressure value may give information whether the arms of the rear view device have been moved or the biasing element 140 and / or sensor 150 is damaged. For example, a pressure value below the prestress level may indicate a damage, wherein a pressure value higher than the prestress level may indicate a movement of the arms of the rear view device 100. In particular, the damage may be in the form of a broken biasing element 140, for example a coil spring. Thus, having a sensor 150 sensing the aforementioned pressure value may allow a spring break and / or spring damage detection. According to various embodiments, the prestress of the driving position may be equal or below 150N, such that sensing a pressure below a first and / or second, preferably the first, threshold value and / or no pressure value relates to a pressure of equal or below 150N. Sensing pressure 11 04 25 values relating to a pressure between 150N and 600N may indicate a movement by means of the first and second hinge section Hl, H2. The pressure values may be sensed by at least one sensor 150 preferably having two pressure switches 152, 154, wherein for example each pressure switch 152, 154 or only one pressure switch 152, 154 detects a pressure value. In another embodiment the respective pressure values are sensed with the first and second pressure switch 152, 154 additively together. Moreover, the position of the arms 110, 120,130 may be determined by the course of the sensed pressure caused by the elevated curved portions ECPI, ECP2, which are the surfaces that induce a pressure tension on the pressure switches 152, 154 and / or the biasing element 140. According to a preferred embodiment, the first and second elevated curved portions ECPI, ECP2 are curved differently, such that a movement of the first arm 110, second arm 120 and third arm 130 and / or first hinge section Hl and second hinge section H2 may be distinguished by the sensed course of the pressure. Thus, the sensed pressure level may be used for position detection. Moreover, the speed, in particular the derivation of an angle or translatory distance with respect to time, of reaching points (e.g. recesses Cl, C2, C3, C4) along the elevated curved portions ECPI, ECP2 for the first and second pressure switches 152, 154 (or similar sensor means known by the prior art) may indicate the type of force load that triggered a movement. This allows, for example, a distinction to be made between intentional (adjusting the rear view device 100) and unintentional movement (e.g. a crash). Not only the speed of reaching a point along the elevated curved portions ECPI, ECP2 but also outliers of the expected course of pressure values may alone or in combination indicate a crash scenario. By sensing a crash, it may be advantageous to show a warning to a driver and / or occupant, that the impact of the sensed crash might have a negative effect on the adjustment, setting, and / or calibration of the rear view device 100. Such impacts on the rear view device 100 may regularly occur during parking situations. Thus, at least one first storage device is needed, in order to record the sensed movements of at least one of the arms 110, 120, 130 at least partially. Further, pressure values higher than or lower than specific thresholds, that are related to a possible damage of the rear view device 100, may be stored in the at least one first storage device. By distinguishing the movements, in particular angular and / or longitudinal movements and / or first and / or second grade derivations of the movement with respect to time, along the elevated 11 04 25 curved portions ECPI, ECP2 of the different hinge sections Hl, H2 it may be possible to sense the different positions of the rear view device 100, in particular the first, second, third and fourth position. A pressure sensor is only one example of a sensor to fulfill the features and objectives outlined herein. Other sensor means 150 such as strain sensors (shown in Fig. 8a) or movement sensors or any capacitive, electro-magnetic, electronic or mechanical sensor means may also be applied alone or in any combination. Thus, the application of a sensor 150 according to the present disclosure is more advantageous than the application of a micro-switch, which could detect only two positions, for example C2 and C4. Accordingly, with a micro-switch, neither the damage conditions nor the course of the occurring pressure and position can be sensed additionally. Calibration data may be required to assign the sensed pressure values, speeds, in particular calculated based on first grade derivations with respect to the time, and / or accelerations, in particular calculated based on second grade derivations with respect to the time, to different positions of the switches 152, 154 along the elevated curved portions ECPI, ECP2. Accordingly, at least one second storage device is needed in order to store the calibration data. The first and / or second storage device may be arranged in the rear view device, the vehicle or the control unit. Preferably, one first and second storage device is used for all rear view devices 100 of one vehicle. The at least one first and second storage devices may be one single storage device. When using first and / or second grade derivation it might be possible to avoid the reference to calibration data and / or the second storage device. The control unit or an electronic processing unit ECU, also known as an electronic control module ECM, is an embedded system in automotive electronics that controls one or more of electrical systems or subsystems in the vehicle. The development of the processing unit involves both hardware and software required to perform the functions expected from a particular module. The hardware may include, but is not limited to a general purpose or a special purpose microcontroller or microprocessor. According to various embodiments, the control unit, in particular being an ECU, may be arranged in the vehicle or in one or more rear view devices 100. 11 04 25 The rear-view device 100 further comprises a second third arm recess C3 and a first elevated curved portion ECPI in the second protruding member 136, wherein the first third arm recess C1 and the third recess C3 are separated by the first elevated curved portion ECP 1. Furthermore, the rear-view device 100 comprises a second first arm recess C4 and a second elevated curved portion ECP2 in the first protruding member 116, wherein the first first arm recess C2 and the second first arm recess C4 are separated by the second elevated curved portion ECPI. The recesses Cl, C2, C3, C4 may define the four end positions of the rear view device 100 outlined above as the folding, the push-back as well as the unfolded positions. In an embodiment, the first pressure switch 152 and the second pressure switch 154 detect a pressure below a first and / or second, preferably the first, threshold value and / or no pressure value when the first pressure switch 152 and the second pressure switch 154 face the first third arm recess Cl and the first first arm recess C2, respectively, which corresponds to the driving position of the rear-view device 100. When the first pressure switch 152 does not face the first third arm recess Cl and / or the second pressure switch 154 does not face the first first arm recess C2, the first pressure switch 152 and / or the second pressure switch 154 detect(s) a pressure value, which occurs during any of the first pivotal movement and the second pivotal movement, and corresponds to the rear-view device 100 not being in the driving position. In the embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 2, at the driving position of the rear-view device 100, the first pressure switch 152 is pre-configured to have no pressure value when in contact with the first third arm recess Cl of the first protruding member 116. Similarly, at the driving position of the rear-view device 100, the second pressure switch 154 is pre-configured to have no pressure value when in contact with the first first arm recess C2 of the first protruding member 116. As illustrated in Figure 3, as the third arm 130 disengages from the second arm 120 due to the second pivotal movement through the second hinge section H2, the first pressure switch 152 is exposed to the first elevated curved portion ECPI. Due to the elevated shape of the first elevated curved portion ECPI, the first pressure switch 152 is depressed and detects a different pressure value. The sensor 150 senses a different pressure value, which is then communicated to the control unit of the vehicle, which determines the change of pressure value and indicates the driver that the rear-view device 100 is not in the driving position anymore. 11 04 25 As illustrated in the Figure 4, as the third arm 130 disengages from the second arm 120 due to the second pivotal movement through the second hinge section H2 and passes through the first elevated curved portion ECPI, the first pressure switch 152 reaches to the second third arm recess C3. At the second third arm recess C3 the first pressure switch 152 is less depressed than shown in Figure 3, but still more depressed than shown in Figure 2, and thus detects a different pressure value, which is sensed by the sensor 150. The different pressure value is then communicated to the control unit of the vehicle which determines and indicates the driver that the rear-view device 100 is not in the driving position anymore, but in the folding position. As illustrated in the Figure 5, as the third arm 130 and the second arm 120 form a single unit and disengage from the first arm 110 due to the first pivotal movement through the first hinge section Hl, the second pressure switch 154 is exposed to the second elevated curved portion ECP2. Due to the elevated shape of the second elevated curved portion ECP2, the second pressure switch 154 is depressed and detects a different pressure value. The sensor 150 senses a different pressure value, which is then communicated to the control unit of the vehicle, which determines the change of the pressure value and indicates the driver that the rear-view device 100 is not in the driving position anymore. As illustrated in the Figure 6, as the third arm 130 and the second arm 120 form the single unit and disengage from the first arm 110 due to the first pivotal movement through the first hinge section Hl, the second pressure switch 154 reaches to the second first arm recess C4. At the second first arm recess C4 the first pressure switch 154 is less depressed than shown in Figure 5, but still more depressed than shown in Figure 2, and detects a different pressure value, which is sensed by the sensor 150. The different pressure value is then communicated to the control unit of the vehicle which determines and indicates the driver that the rear-view device 100 is not in the driving position anymore, but in the push-back position. As illustrated in Figure 7, the first and second pivotal movement through the first hinge section Hl and second hinge section H2 proceeded, wherein neither the first and second arms 110, 120 nor the second and third arm 120, 130 form a single unit. All three arms 110, 120, 130 are disengaged from each other due to the first and second pivotal movement. Thus, the first pressure switch 152 is exposed to the first elevated curved portion ECPI and the second pressure switch 154 is exposed to the second elevated curved portion ECP2. Due to the elevated shape of the first and second elevated curved portion ECPI, ECP2, the first and second pressure 11 04 25 switch 152, 154 are depressed and detect a different pressure value. The sensor 150 senses a different pressure value, which is then communicated to the control unit of the vehicle, which determines the change of the pressure value and indicates the driver that the rear-view device 100 is not in the driving position anymore. During the first and second pivotal movement, the first pressure switch 152 reaches to the second third arm recess C3 and the second pressure switch 154 reaches to the second first arm recess C4. At second third arm recess C3 and the second first arm recess C4 the first and second pressure switch 152, 154 is more depressed than in the driving position, shown in Figure 2. The different pressure values, detected by the switches 152, 154 lead to a different pressure value sensed by the sensor 150. This different pressure value is then communicated to the control unit of the vehicle, which determines and indicates the driver that the rear-view device 100 is not in the driving position anymore, but in the unfolded position. According to various embodiments, the detected pressure values of the first and second pressure switch 152, 154 may lead to a single pressure value of the sensor 150 combining the detected pressure values of the first and second pressure switch 152, 154. In another embodiment, the detected pressure values of the first and second pressure switch 152, 154 may lead to two separate pressure values sensed by the at least one sensor 150, wherein one pressure value of the sensor 150 relates to one of the pressure switches 152, 154. In yet another embodiment, each pressure switch 152, 154 is connected to a single sensor, such that two sensors 150 are needed for two pressure switches 152, 154. According to the last two embodiments, the control unit is adapted to distinguish between the detected pressure values of the first or second pressure switch 152, 154. Any sensed position, being different to the driving position, may lead to a warning to the driver. Further, a sensed condition point to a possible malfunction of the rear view device 100, such as a pressure outlier indicating a crash or a pressure value indicating a damaged biasing element 140 or an unknown or too fast course of the sensed pressure caused by the elevated curved portions ECPI, ECP2, may lead to a warning to the driver, indicating the driver that the rearview device 100 may not be in the appropriate driving position anymore and / or in an appropriate state. 11 04 25 In particular, a warning, preferably in form of a “STOP”-symbol, is shown in the upper part of the output device, preferably on the top at the outer aspheric comer edge, overlaying at least partly the shown image. In another embodiment, the warning is in form of a rear view device 100 movement, such as moving to the folding position. In yet another embodiment, the warning comprises interrupting the power supply of the rear view device and / or stopping to record with the camera module 160 and / or stopping to display the recorded images. According to various embodiments, the control unit is adapted to determine not only the first position (driving position) but also the second, third and / or fourth positions. According to the present disclosure, the end positions or all positions of the movements of the arms 110, 120, 130 of the rear view device 100 defined by the hinges (Hl, H2) and its respective elevated curved portions ECPI, ECP2 may be determined as outlined above. The rear-view device 100 further comprises one or more further sensors in alternative or in addition to the pressure sensor 150. The further sensor 150 may include, but not limited to a shape-memory based torsion sensor 150, a piezoelectric sensor 150, and / or an electromagnetic induction sensor 150. The shape-memory based torsion sensor 150 may be disposed at the hinges Hl, H2 of the rearview device 100 and may be configured to detect hinge movements around the first hinge section Hl the second hinge section H2 or both to determine the change in position of the rearview device 100 of the vehicle, being capable of distinguishing the first and second pivotal movement. The piezoelectric sensor 150 uses piezoelectric effect to measure changes or no changes in pressure values, acceleration values, temperature values, strain values, or force by converting them to an electrical charge. Based on piezoelectric technology, various physical quantities can be measured including pressure. For piezoelectric based pressure sensors 150, a thin membrane and a bigger base is used, such that the applied pressure specifically loads the elements in one direction. Further, the electromagnetic induction sensor 150 is an inductive sensor device that uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to detect or measure objects. An inductor present within the electromagnetic induction sensor 150 may develop a magnetic field when current flows 11 04 25 through it. This effect can be used to detect any engagement, disengagement or movement of the first arm 110, the second arm 120, and / or the third arm 130 when interact with the magnetic field. According to the relative movements of the first arm 110, the second arm 120, and the third arm 130, contact sensors and / or displacement sensors may be disposed between the first and second arm 110, 120 and / or between the second and third arm 120, 130. The sensors 150 used herewith may be disposed in one or more positions or may be integrated with one or more components of the rear-view device. In exemplary embodiments the sensors 150 may be disposed in either or both of the hinges Hl, H2, or integrated with the spring or integrated with at least one switch 152, 154 or may be integrated with the biasing element 140, or may be placed in combination of any components or subcomponents including the first arm 110, the second arm 120 or the third arm 130. In a preferred embodiment, at least one sensor is disposed at one or two ends of a biasing element 140. According to the embodiment of Fig. 8a, the sensor 150 is in form of a strain sensor. The first and / or second movement as outlined above cause a force acting on the biasing element 140. According to the embodiment of Fig. 8a the biasing element 140 is in form of a coiled spring. Different tensions of the coiled spring 140 lead to different distances between the single coils of the coiled spring 140. The strain sensor 150 of Fig. 8a is arranged to the biasing element 140 in form of a coiled spring, such that a change of the force of the coiled spring 140 is sensed in form of values relating to strains or compressions. According to various embodiments, the first switch 152 and the second switch 154 may be mechanically coupled such that a pressure on the first and / or second switch leads to relative movement of the first and second switch 152, 154. In further preferred embodiment one of the switches 152, 154 moves into the other switch and / or the switches converge. According to this, one embodiment is shown in Fig. 8b, wherein the first switch 152 comprises a piston 153 and the second switch 154 comprises a cylinder 154. Further, a sensor 150 may be placed at the bottom of the cylinder 155 (shown in Fig. 8b) and / or outside the cylinder (not shown). According to the embodiment of Fig. 8b actuating the first hinge section Hl or the second hinge section H2 causes the piston 153 to move further into the cylinder and subsequently increase the pressure of the sensor 150. This is achieved either by direct pressure on the sensor 150 by 11 04 25 the piston 153 (shown in Fig. 8b) or the pressure acts on the cylinder 155 and is sensed by the sensor 150 arranged outside the cylinder (not shown). The movement of the piston 153 relative to the cylinder 155 may be compensated by the sensor 150 and / or an elastic element. The elastic element may be placed between the sensor 150 and the piston 153 and / or at least be partially part of the piston 153 and / or between the piston 153 and the cylinder 155. According to various embodiments, the piston 153 and sensor 150 may be arranged, such that movement of the first and / or second switch 152, 154 by the first and / or second elevated curved positions ECPI, ECP2 of the first and / or second hinge section Hl, H2 may cause a positive pressure value sensed by the sensor 150, or a negative and / or positive value sensed by the sensor. Negative pressure values may occur, while the first and / or second switch 152, 154 is in a recess Cl, C2, C3, C4. The range of intended pressure values to be sensed by the sensor 150 is related to the arrangement of the first switch 152 comprising the piston 153 and the sensor 150, in particular caused by the prestress, which is caused by piston 153 for the sensor 150. According to another embodiment, the cylinder 155 and piston 153 arrangement is a hydraulic spring, such that movement of the first and / or second switch 152, 154 causes an increase in pressure of the fluid and / or gas comprised by the hydraulic spring. According to this embodiment a sensor 150 is arranged, such that the sensor 150 is adapted to sense the pressure change inside the hydraulic spring. According to another embodiment, the sensor 150 is placed at one or both ends of the biasing element 140 and thus sensing the spring force of the biasing element 140, in particular being a coiled spring. According to this disclosure, it is preferred to detect whether the detected change of stress level of the biasing element 140 is caused by the first and / or second movement. According to the embodiment of Fig. 8c the biasing element 140 comprises two coiled springs 140a, 140b and two sensors 150a, 150b. The two coiled springs 140a, 140b are each seated on one side of a biasing element seat 141, which is fixedly connected to the second arm 120, such that the two 11 04 25 springs 140a, 140b work independently from each other. Thus, movement of the first hinge section Hl is sensed by the second sensor 150b and movement of the second hinge second H2 is sensed by the first sensor 150a. In a further embodiment, the biasing element 140 comprises only one coiled spring, wherein the coiled spring is fixed, preferably in the middle between both ends of the coiled springs, to the second arm 120, such that the fixing defines a left and a right side of the coiled spring, wherein the left and right side of the coiled spring work independently. For each side a sensor 150 may be disposed as outlined above. In further embodiments, the positions of the rear view device 100 may be detected by at least two sensors, which are accelerometers. According to the embodiments of Figures 9a and 9b the first and second accelerometer may be located on the third arm 130. The first accelerometer may be positioned close to the second arm 120 and approximately centrally between the first and second hinge sections Hl, H2. The second accelerometer may be positioned near the camera module. In case of a folding movement by means of the first and / or second hinge section Hl, H2 the first and second accelerometer experience different acceleration values, due to the different lengths of the axis A AMI, AAM2 of the first or second accelerometer. Figure 9a show significantly different axis lengths during movement to the push back position, which during folding movement may cause the values of the first accelerometer to be significantly smaller than the value changes of the second accelerometer. Figure 9b show significantly different axis lengths during movement to the folding position, which during folding movement may cause the values of the first accelerometer to be significantly smaller than the value changes of the second accelerometer. In a preferred embodiment Inter-Integrated Circuit (FC) may be used to compare the acceleration values of the data received by each accelerometer over the time or the first grade derivate of the acceleration values of the time. Further, it is preferred to adjust the sampling frequency to enough time, for example between 50 Hz and 10 kHz or between 150 Hz and 2 kHz, to sample 2 to 10 times, preferably 3 times, to activate for example an error condition. For example: the minimum time a folding occurs might be 60ms, such that the sampling may be every 20ms and 50Hz. If the values may be significantly different, for example 5%-400% of the smaller signal values or 15%-400% of the smaller signal values, three times in a row, a signal may be sent to the driver and / or ECU to check the rear view device 100. In a preferred embodiment, only the acceleration values in the plane defined by the first and second hinge sections Hl, H2may be evaluated. In a further embodiment, also the acceleration values vertical to the plane defined by the first and second hinge sections Hl, H2 may be evaluated. Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims and other equivalent features and acts are intended to be within the scope of the claims. LD CM Reference signs 11 04 25 100 rear-view device 110 first arm 112 first first-arm end 114 second first-arm end 116 first protruding member 120 second arm 122 first second-arm end 124 second second-arm end 130 third arm 132 first third-arm end 134 second third-arm end 136 second protruding member 140, 140a, 140b biasing element 141 biasing element seat 150, 150a, 150b sensor 152 first pressure switch 153 piston of the first pressure switch 154 second pressure switch 155 cylinder of the second pressure switch 160 camera module AAM1 first axis of a first accelerometer AAM2 second axis of a second accelerometer Cl first third arm recess C2 first first arm recess C3 second third arm recess C4 second first arm recess Hl first hinge section H2 second hinge section ECPI first elevated curved portion ECP2 second elevated curved portion 11 04 25

Claims

1. A rear-view device (100) adapted to be used with a vehicle, comprising a pivot system with at least two elements, being movable with respect to each other by at least one hinge section; wherein the pivot system comprises at least one sensor (150) in operative connection with the pivot system configured to detect at least one movement of at least one of the elements of the pivot system, and the pivot system further comprises at least one control unit in operative connection with the sensor (150), characterized in thatthe rear-view device (100) is an external rear-view device,the sensor (150) is further configured to provide over a first value range three or more different and / or non-binary output values, andthe control unit is adapted to determine based on at least one of the output values provided by the sensor (150) whether• the rear-view device (100) is in a first position in form of a driving position depending on at least one first output value provided by the sensor (150) being within a first predefined value range, and• at least one of the output values is an abnormal output value indicating a potential damage of the rear-view device (100), if an output value is not within a second value range, or• at least two of the output values are abnormal output values indicating a potential damage of the rear-view device (100), if two output values are sensed in a second timeframe being longer or shorter than a first timeframe, or• the rear view device (100) is in a damaged condition or might be in a damaged condition depending on at least one second output value, wherein the at least one second output value is outside a second value range, wherein at least one third timeframe between the two second output values does not match the second timeframe by being longer or shorter than the second timeframe.

2. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 1, whereinthe sensor (150) is in operative connection with the hinge section or with at least one first element or at least one second element.

3. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, whereinthe output values are analogue or analogue discrete and digital values.

4. The rearview-device according to claim 2 or 3, whereinthe first element is configured to be releasably or fixedly coupled to the vehicle; and / or the second element is movably coupled to the first element or the main body of the vehicle by at least one first hinge section.

5. The rearview-device according to claim 4, whereinthe first element is comprised or formed by a main body of the vehicle or fixed relative to a main body of the vehicle.

6. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 2 or 3, whereinthe first element, comprising or being formed as a first arm (110), is movable relative toI14 / a main body of the vehicle; andCXIthe second element, comprising or being formed as a second arm (120), is movable relative to a main body of the vehicle.

7. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 6, whereinI-• the first arm (110) is configured to be coupled to the vehicle, either directly or indirectly; and• the second arm (120) is movably connected to the first arm (110) via the first hinge section (Hl).

8. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 2 to 7, wherein the first element is adapted to accommodate at least one reflective element, camera module (160) or display element.

9. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 2 to 8, wherein the second element is adapted to accommodate at least one reflective element, camera module (160) or display element.

10. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 2 to 9, wherein the sensor (150) is configured to detect pivotal movement of the second element with respect to the first element.

11. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (150) is disposed within the pivot system.

12. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 6 to 11, whereinthe first arm comprises at least one first first-arm end (112) and at least one second first-arm end (114),wherein• the first first-arm end (112) is configured with at least one first protruding member (116), and• the first protruding member (116) comprises at least one first first arm recess (C2).

13. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 12, whereinthe second element is connected to the first element via the first hinge section, orthe second element comprises at least one first second-arm end (122), forming part of or being connected to the first hinge section (Hl), and at least one second second-arm end (124).

14. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 13, whereinthe first second-arm end (122) is pivotally coupled to the first protruding member (116) of the first element to form the first hinge section (Hl) for allowing a first pivotal movement.

15. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 14, whereinthe first arm (110) and the second arm (120) form a single unit during the first pivotal movement.

16. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized byat least one third element, adapted to accommodate at least one reflective element, camera module (160) or display element and pivotally connected to the second element via at least one second hinge section (H2) for allowing a second pivotal movement.

17. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 16, whereinthe at least one third element comprises or is formed as a third arm (130), andthe second element and the third element forming a single unit during the second pivotal movement.

18. The rear-view device (100) according to any of the claims 2 to 17, characterized by at least one biasing element (140), coupled• between the first element and the second element; or• to the first hinge section (Hl) for biasing at least the first movement.

19. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that the biasing element (140) is coupled between the first hinge section (Hl) and the second hinge section (H2) for biasing one or both of the first movement and the secondmovement.

20. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 19, whereinthe third element comprises at least one first third-arm end (132) and at least one second third-arm end (134);wherein• the first third-arm end (132) is configured with a second protruding member (136);• the second protruding member (136) comprises at least one first third arm recess (Cl); and• the second protruding member (136) is pivotally coupled to the second second-arm end (124) to form the second hinge section (H2) allowing the second pivotal movement of the third element.21.22.LD23.The rear-view device (100) according to any one of claims 18 to 20, whereinthe sensor (150) is in operative connection with,• the first element, the second element, or the first hinge section (Hl), and one or two ends of the biasing element (140), in order to sense at least one force acting on the biasing element (140); or• the second element coupled to the biasing element (140), and is configured to detect at least movement of the second element with respect to the first element.The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 16 to 20, wherein the sensor (150) is in operative connection with,• the first element, the third element, the first hinge section (Hl) or the second hinge section (H2); or• one or two ends of the biasing element (140), in order to sense at least one force acting on the biasing element (140).The rear-view device (100) according to claim 22, whereinthe sensor (150) is in operative connection with the second element, coupled to thebiasing element (140), and is configured to detect movement of one ofo the second element along with the third element with respect to the first element, ando the third element with respect to the first element and the second element.

24. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, whereinthe sensor (150) comprises• at least one pressure sensor,• at least one torsion-based sensor,• at least one strain sensor, wherein preferably the strain sensor is coupled to the biasing element (140), advantageously in form of at least one coiled spring, and senses values relating to strains or compressions of the biasing element (140),• at least one piezoelectric sensor,• at least one shape-memory based torsion sensor,• at least one electromagnetic induction sensor, or• a capacitive, electro-magnetic, electronic or mechanical sensor means, for detecting at least one movement.

25. The rear-view device (100) according to the first alternative of claim 24, wherein the pressure sensor comprises at least one first pressure switch (152) and at least one second pressure switch (154), wherein• the first pressure switch (152), when being in operative connection with the second or third element, is adapted to detect a pressure relating to the movement of the second or third element relative to the first or second element26. The rear-view device (100) according to the first alternative of claim 24 or 25, wherein the pressure sensor comprises at least one first pressure switch (152) and at least one second pressure switch (154), wherein the second pressure switch (154), when being in operative connection with the first or second element, is adapted to detect a pressure relating to the movement of the first or second element relative to the second or third element.

27. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one hinge section is formed by at least one protruding member and one arm end, provided by the first, second or third element, wherein the hinge section comprises at least two position identifying sections.

28. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 27, whereinthe at least two position identifying sections are in form of recesses that are separated by at least one elevated curved portion.

29. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 20 to 26, whereinthe third element comprises at least one second third arm recess (C3) and a first elevated curved portion (ECPI) in the second protruding member (136),• wherein the first third arm recess (Cl) and the second third arm recess (C3) are separated by the first elevated curved portion (ECP 1), andthe first element comprises at least one second first arm recess (C4) and a second elevated curved portion (ECP2) in the first protruding member (116),• wherein the first first arm recess (C2) and the second first arm recess (C4) are separated by the second elevated curved portion (ECP2).11 04 2530. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 16 to 27, wherein the third element moves with respect to the first element and the second element to a folding position of the rear-view device (100) and into an end position of the folding position of the rear-view device (100) after completion of the second movement, and the second element and the third element move with respect to the first element to a push-back position of the rear-view device (100) and into an end position of the push-back position of the rear-view device (100) after completion of the first movement, and the third element moves with respect to the first element and the second element and the second element moves with respect to the first element to a unfolded position of the rear-view device (100) and into an end position of the unfolded position of the rear-view device (100) after completion of the first movement and the second movement.

31. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 28, whereinthe first pressure switch (152), when extending into the second third arm recess (C3) of the second protruding member (136), detects a first pressure value, andthe second pressure switch (154), when extending the first first arm recess (C2) of the first protruding member (116), detects a no pressure value or a second pressure value, such that the pressure sensor (150) provides a third pressure output value representing the folding position.

32. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 28, whereinthe first pressure switch (152), when extending into the first third arm recess (Cl) of the second protruding member (136), detects a no pressure value or a fourth pressure value, andthe second pressure switch (154), when extending into the second first arm recess (C4) of the first protruding member (116), detects a fifth pressure value, such that the pressure sensor (150) provides a sixth pressure output value representing the push-back position.

33. The rear-view device (100) according to claim 28, whereinthe first pressure switch (152), when extending into the second third arm recess (C3) ofthe second protruding member (136), detects a seventh pressure value,, andthe second pressure switch (154), when extending into the second first arm recess (C4)of the first protruding member (116), detects an eighth pressure value,such that the pressure sensor (150) provides a ninth pressure output value representing the unfolded position.

34. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 28 to 31, wherein the sensor (150) is configured to detect hinge movements around the hinge section, the first hinge section (Hl), the second hinge section (H2) or the first hinge section (Hl) and the second hinge section (H2).

35. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 28 to 31 or 34, wherein the sensor (150) is configured to detect the hinge movements by sensing the pressure state of the biasing element (140).

36. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 28 to 31, 34 or 35, whereinthe control unit is adapted to determine the driving position, the folding position, the unfolded position and the push-back position.

37. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 24 to 32, wherein the rear-view device (100) is connected to or comprises at least one storage device.

38. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 24 to 32 or 37, wherein the pressure sensor comprising the first pressure switch (152), exposed to the first elevated curved portion (ECPI), and the second pressure switch (154), exposed to the second elevated curved portion (ECP2), or the biasing element is pre-configured with a pre-defined pressure, defining the driving position, for allowing the determination of the position of the rear-view device (100) caused by the at least one movement.

39. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32 or33, whereinthe first pressure switch (152) comprises at least one piston (153) or at least one elastic element;the second pressure switch (154) comprises at least one cylinder (155), housing at least a part of the piston (153), or at least one elastic element; andat least one of the first and second pressure switch (152, 154) is connected to the sensor (150), either directly or indirectly.

40. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 25, 26 or 29 to 34,whereina first sensor (150a) is adapted to determine the pressure values of the first pressure switch (152) caused by the first elevated curved portion (ECP 1), and a second sensor (150b) is adapted to determine the pressure values of the second pressure switch (154), caused by the second elevated curved portion (ECP2).

41. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 25, 26 or 29 to 34 or 40, whereinthe biasing element (140) comprises two springs, wherein the two springs are arranged on at least one biasing member seat (141) and wherein the biasing member seat (141) is fixedly connected to the second arm (120) such that the two springs work independently from each other; orthe biasing member (140) comprises at least one spring, wherein the spring is fixed, in the middle between both ends of the spring, to the second arm (120), such that the fixing defines a left and a right side of the spring, wherein the left and right side of the spring work independently from each other.

42. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 25, 26 or 29 to 34 or 40 or 41, whereina warning is shown to the driver if the sensor (150) senses that the rear view device (100) is not in the driving position.

43. The rear-view device (100) according to any one of the claims 25, 26 or 29 to 34 or 40 to 42, whereincalibration data is stored on the storage device.

44. A vehicle with a control unit and at least one external rear view device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, whereinthe external rear view device (100) comprises at least one output device, configured to display at least one static image, dynamic image video or a combination thereof, as at least partially obtained by the camera module (160),wherein the output device is arranged outside the vehicle at the rearview device (100) or inside the vehicle, at an A-pillar or dashboard..

45. A vehicle according to claim 44, whereinthe warning is shown in the upper part overlaying at least partly the shown image of the output device; orthe warning is in form of a rear view device movement, such as moving to the folding position; orthe warning comprises interrupting the power supply of the rear view device or stopping to record with the camera module (160) or stopping to display the recorded images.