Visor Anti-vibration latch

Abstract

A visor assembly includes a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position. A connection member extends between a first end connected to the visor body and a second end configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitates pivotal movement of the visor body. An anti-vibration latch assembly configured to be coupled to an interior of a vehicle. The anti-vibrational latch assembly includes at least one anti-vibration latch that is moveable between a locked position where the at least one anti-vibration latch is coupled to and prevents vibration and decoupling of the visor body, and an unlocked position where the at least one anti-vibration latch is decoupled from the visor body and permits the visor body to be freely moved.

Description

VISOR ANTI-VIBRATION LATCHCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 557,775, filed on February 26, 2024, entitled "VISOR ANTI-VIBRATION LATCH," by Mark R. Roth et al., the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a visor assembly and, more particularly, a visor assembly with an anti-vibration latch.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position. A connection member extends between a first end connected to the visor body and a second end configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitates pivotal movement of the visor body. An anti-vibration latch assembly configured to be coupled to an interior of a vehicle. The anti-vibrational latch assembly includes at least one anti-vibration latch that is moveable between a locked position where the at least one anti-vibration latch is coupled to and prevents vibration and decoupling of the visor body, and an unlocked position where the at least one anti-vibration latch is decoupled from the visor body and permits the visor body to be freely moved.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position. A pair of connection members extend between a first portion connected to the visor body and a second portion that is configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitates pivotal movement of the visor body. An anti-vibration latch assembly includes at least one track and inwardly extending teeth defined by one of the pair of connection members, and a circular gear includes outwardly extending teeth intermeshed with the inwardly extending teeth. The circular gear is rotationally coupled to the visor assembly.

[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position. A battery, a control system, and a display are coupled to the visor body. A connection member extends between a first end connected to the visor body and a second end configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitates pivotal movement of the visor body. An anti-vibration latch assembly configured to be coupled to an interior of a vehicle. The anti-vibrational latch assembly includes an anti-vibration latch that is moveable between a locked position where the anti-vibration latch is coupled to and prevents vibration and decoupling of the visor body, and an unlocked position where the antivibration latch is decoupled from the visor body and permits the visor body to be freely moved.

[0006] These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] In the drawings:

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an interior of a vehicle that includes a visor assembly, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a front view of a visor assembly with an anti-vibration latch assembly of a first construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 3A is an upper perspective view of an anti-vibration latch assembly of a first construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 3B is a lower perspective view of an anti-vibration latch assembly of a first construction in an unlocked position, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 3C is a lower perspective view of an anti-vibration latch assembly of a first construction in a locked position, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 3D is a schematic view of a housing of an anti-vibration latch of a first construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 4A is an upper perspective view of an anti-vibration latch assembly of a second construction in an unlocked position, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 4B is an upper perspective view of an anti-vibration latch assembly of a second construction in a locked position, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 4C is a schematic view of a housing of an anti-vibration latch of a second construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 5 is a front view of a visor assembly with an anti-vibration latch assembly of a third construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 6A is an upper perspective view of a first anti-vibration latch of a third construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 6B is an upper perspective view of a second anti-vibration latch of a third construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 7A is a side view of a visor assembly in an extended position with an antivibration latch assembly of a fourth construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 7B is a side view of a visor assembly in a partially extended position with an anti-vibration latch assembly of a fourth construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 7C is a side view of a visor assembly in a stowed position with an anti-vibration latch assembly of a fourth construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0023] FIG. 7D is a schematic view of a connection between a visor body and a connection member of a fourth construction, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a visor assembly with an anti-vibration latch. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0025] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof, shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1. Unless stated otherwise, the term "front" shall refer to the surface of the device closer to an intended viewer of the device, and the term "rear" shall referto the surface of the device further from the intended viewer of the device. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0026] The terms "including," "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises a . . ." does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0027] Referring to FIGS. 1-3D, reference numeral 10 generally designates a visor assembly for a vehicle 12. The visor assembly 10 includes a visor body 14 pivotal between a stowed position (FIG. 1) and an extended position (FIG. 2). A connection member 16 extends between a first end 18 connected to the visor body 14 and a second end 20 configured to connect to an interior 22 of the vehicle 12. The connection member 16 facilitates pivotal movement of a visor body 14. An anti-vibration latch assembly 24 of a first construction is configured to be coupled to an interior of a vehicle 12. The anti-vibrational latch assembly includes at least one anti-vibration latch 26 that is moveable between a locked position (FIG. 3C) where the at least one anti-vibration latch 26 is coupled to and prevents vibration and decoupling of the visor body 14, and an unlocked position (FIG. 3B) where the at leastone anti-vibration latch 26 is decoupled from the visor body 14 and permits the visor body to be freely moved.

[0028] With reference now to FIG. 1, the anti-vibration latch assembly 24 retains a position of the visor body 14 during operation of the vehicle 12. The vehicle 12 may be any type of vehicle that is designed to traverse a variety of environments. More particularly, various vehicles are designed and / or otherwise operated on roadways or off-road environments that have potholes, bumps, and other features which generate a significant amount of vibration and quick, jolting movements. These movements put pressure on the connection member 16 and can result in movement of the visor body 14 to an undesired position that detracts from usability. In addition, as will be explained in further detail below, the visor body 14 may include at least one electronic component that adds additional weight over traditional visor systems. However, it should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the visor body 14 may not include any electronic components. As such, the anti-vibration latch assembly 24 further assists in supporting the weight of the visor body 14 during usage. The second end 20 configured to connect to the interior 22 of the vehicle 12 may be connected to an overhead region 28, a front window 30, a pillar 32, or any other location of the interior 22. Further disclosure herein may relate to the vehicle 12 with one or more of the visor assembly 10 constructions disclosed herein. For example, the vehicle 12 may include a single visor assembly 10 in alignment with a driver seat location, a single visor assembly 10 in alignment with a passenger seat location, or a first visor assembly 10 in alignment with the driver seat location and a second visor assembly 10 in alignment with the passenger seat location.

[0029] With reference now to FIG. 2, the visor body 14 may include an outer perimeter 34 that extends longitudinally (i.e., in the cross-car direction) from a first side 36 proximate the connection member 16 to a second side 38 that may be proximate the at least one anti-vibration latch 26. In this manner, the visor body 14 may be supported on or proximate to (e.g., within 2% or less, within 5% or less, within 10% or less of a longitudinal length from each of the sides 36, 38) diametrically opposite sides 36, 38 when the at least one anti-vibration latch 26 is in the locked position. The visor body 14 may include the at least one electronic component at least partially within the outer perimeter 34. For example, the at least one electronic component may include a display 40 that generates images, videos, graphics, and / or the like. In some embodiments, an imager module 42 islocated in the interior 22 or an exterior the vehicle 12 and the display 40 is configured to generate images captured by the imager module 42. In some embodiments, the imager module 42 may be located in a rearview mirror assembly 44 for occupant monitoring assistance, an exterior of the vehicle 12 for monitoring environments exterior to the vehicle 12, and / or the like. The at least one electronic component may further include an electro-optic device 46 including an electroactive medium that is switchable between a substantially transmissive state and a substantially darkened state. The electro-optic device 46 may further include a selectively reflective layer including, for example, an absorption polarizer, a liquid crystal display, and a reflective polarizer. In this manner, the electro-optic device 46 may be utilized for switching between the visibility of the display 40, a reflective state, a transmissive state, and / or a darkened state.

[0030] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the control system 100 is configured to control the functionality of the electronic components. The control system 100 may include a memory and a processor, the memory contains instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to control the functionality of the electronic components as described herein. The control system 100 may be located in the visor body 14, within the vehicle 12 and electrically coupled to the visor body 14 through the connection member 16, and / or within the vehicle 12 and electrically coupled to the visor body 14 through a communication module 102 (e.g., wired orwireless). In some embodiments, the at least one electronic component may further include a driving mechanism 48 that actuates the anti-vibration latch assembly 24 between the locked and unlocked positions. The driving mechanism 48 may include a gear-driven arrangement operated by a motor, an electro-magnetic interlock, an electro-mechanical interlock, a solenoid device with a movable plunger, and / or a variety of technologies. The driving mechanism 48 may be configured to automatically lock the visor body 14 into position after articulation (e.g., a predetermined amount of time). In some embodiments, the driving mechanism 48 may be configured to lock the visor body 14 into position based on one or more inputs from a user interface 50. For example, the user interface 50 may be located on the visor body 14 and / or elsewhere within the vehicle 12 that is in communication with the control system 100 to select functionality of the electronic components. In still further embodiments, the anti-vibration latch assembly 24 may be manually switched between the locked and unlocked positions in addition to or in lieu of the driving mechanism 48.

[0031] In some implementations, the communication module 102 is in operable communication with a vehicular control system 150 in a wired connection (e.g., through connection member 16) and / or a wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth or other wireless system). In this manner, the display 40 may be configured to generate warnings and notifications from the vehicular control system 150. For example, in some implementations, the display 40 may be configured to generate a map and location information via a Global Positioning System (GPS) of the vehicular control system 150. The GPS may be interactable via the user interface 50, for example, permitting a user to select a destination, manipulate the view of the map, and / or the like. In some implementations, the display 40 may be configured to generate graphics, such as blind spot warnings, check engine icons, seatbelt warning icons, road condition icons (e.g., slippage detection by anti- lock brake systems), environmental conditions (e.g., weather and time), the like, and / or combinations thereof. Further, the display 40 may, via inputs from the user interface 50, generate menus for controlling certain features of the vehicle 12, such as the radio, temperature control, internal and external lights, communication (e.g., answering inbound calls, making outbound calls), connecting to the internet, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the communication module 102 may include a wireless internet module or chip independent of the communication with the vehicular control system 150.

[0032] The control system 100 may be configured to detect, via information from the vehicular control system 150, if the vehicle 12 is in motion. If the vehicle is in motion, one, more, or each of the above certain features of the display 40 may be unavailable until the vehicle 12 is no longer in motion. In some embodiments, where the vehicle 12 includes a first visor assembly 10 associated with a driver seating location and a second visor assembly 10 associated with a passenger seating location, the first and second visor assemblies 10 may be in operable communication with each other (e.g., via the communication module 102). In such implementation, the displays 40 in each respective visor assembly 10 may be capable of mirroring the display in the other visor assembly 10. In this manner, a passenger may be able to interact with the visor assembly 10 associated with the passenger location and mirror to display 40 on the visor assembly 10 associated with the driver seating location. In some implementations, the control system 100 may further detect if the visor assembly 10 is associated with the passenger seating location and unrestricted access to the various features regardless of if the vehicle 12 is in motion.Further, because the visor body 14 may be detectable from the connection member 16, passengers in the front or rear seating locations may be able to interact with one of the visor assemblies 10 and mirror another visor assembly 10 (e.g., the visor assembly 10 associated with the driver location). Such implementations with two or more visor assemblies 10 that can mirror images on the respective displays 40 may be particularly useful for passengers to co-pilot the driver (e.g., via manipulation of the GPS and / or other features). Systems incorporating two or more visor assemblies 10 may be referred to herein as a visor system for a vehicle including at least a first and second visor assembly 10.

[0033] With continued reference to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the visor body 14 is detachable from a connection member 16 and configured to be used as a portable display. For example, when the vehicle 12 is parked and / or the visor body 14 is not needed based on environmental light factors, the visor body 14 can be used internally or external of the vehicle 12. In this manner, a power module 52, such as a battery may be located in the visor body 14. In some embodiments, a charging port may be operably connected (e.g., by mating electrical connectors or induction) to the power module 52 through the connection member 16 or housing 58 to charge the power module 52 (e.g., battery) when the visor body 14 is connected to the connection member 16. In some embodiments, the connection member 16 may include a spring 54 facilitating vibrational isolation of the visor body 14 from the vehicle 12. In some embodiments, the at least one electronic component may include a light sensor and / or sun tracker 59 that detects a position of the sun. In response to detecting the position of the sun, the control system 100 may be configured to articulate the visor body 14 (e.g., via the driving mechanism 48) in an orientation that blocks the sunlight.

[0034] With reference now to FIGS. 2-7C, various constructions of an anti-vibration latch assembly are illustrated. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, each of these constructions may share the same features, elements, and functions as the anti-vibration latch assembly 24 described in the preceding paragraphs. With particular reference now to FIGS. 2-3D, the anti-vibration latch assembly 24 of the first construction may include a connection rod 56 that may extend to and / or otherwise towards (e.g., in a proximate relationship with) the second side 38. The at least one anti-vibration latch 26 may include a housing 58 that may be statically connected to the interior 22 of the vehicle 12 proximate the second side56 and a catch 62 that defines a mouth 64 that is aligned with the bay 60 in the unlocked position (FIG. 3B). The catch 62 is rotated (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise) manually or automatically until the mouth 64 becomes misaligned with the bay 60 and the connection rod 56 is held in position within the bay 60 by the catch 62.

[0035] With reference now specifically to FIGS. 3A-3D, in some embodiments, the catch 62 may include a lever 66 (FIG. 3A) for manually rotating the catch 62. While the lever 66 is depicted as being on a top surface of the housing 58, it should be appreciated that the lever 66 could be located on a front surface of the housing 58 (e.g., facing the occupant or seating location), an end surface of the housing (e.g., facing a passenger window if the visor assembly 10 is aligned with the driver seating location), or a bottom surface of the housing 58 (e.g., on the same surface of the bay 60). The lever 66 may extend from the housing 58 and be coupled (e.g., integrally or otherwise) to the catch 62, such that pivotal movement of the lever 66 translates to rotation of the catch 62. Alternatively or in addition to the lever 66, the driving mechanism 48 may be located within the housing 58 and be configured to rotate the catch 62 via a user's interaction with the user interface 50 or detecting the presence of the connection rod 56 within the bay 60 (e.g., via a sensor 67 in operable communication with the driving mechanism 48). The bay 60 may be slot-shaped and extend along a bottom surface and opposing front and back surfaces of the housing 58.

[0036] In some embodiments, the housing 58 is configured to selectively attach the interior 22 of the vehicle 12. For example, an interlock system 68, such as a magnet, faster, clip, and / orthe like may selectively connect the housing 58 to the interior 22 of the vehicle 12. In this manner, the housing 58 can be connected to the connection rod 56 prior to connecting the housing 58 to the interior 22 of the vehicle 12. While not explicitly shown, a portion of the connection rod 56 that interfaces with the mouth 64 and an interior of the mouth 64 may include interfacing teeth or splines for retaining the visor body 14 at an angle relative to the vehicle 12. In some embodiments, the interlock system 68 includes an armature and the vehicle 12 includes an electromagnetic lock for selective coupling with the housing 58 when powered.

[0037] With reference now to FIGS. 4A through 4C, an anti-vibration latch assembly 124 of a second construction is depicted. The anti-vibration latch assembly 124 of the secondconstruction may share the same features, elements, and functions as the other constructions described herein. More particularly, the anti-vibration latch assembly 124 includes a connection rod 156 that may extend to and / or otherwise towards (e.g., in a proximate relationship with) the second side 38 and at least one anti-vibration latch 126. The at least one anti-vibration latch 126 may include a housing 158 that may be statically or removably connected (e.g., via an interlock system 168) to the interior 22 of the vehicle 12 proximate the second side 38 of the visor body 14. The housing 158 includes a bay 160 that receives the connection rod 156 and the at least one anti-vibration latch 126 further includes a slidable sleeve 162 that moves relative to the connection rod 156. In the second construction, the sleeve 162 may be moved linearly and define an interior channel 163 that moves into engagement with an end of the connection rod 156. While not explicitly shown, a portion of the connection rod 156 that interfaces with the slidable sleeve 162 and an interior of the slidable sleeve 162 may include interfacing teeth or splines for retaining the visor body 14 at an angle relative to the vehicle 12. The slidable sleeve 162 may include a lever 166 for manually moving the slidable sleeve 162. The lever 166 may be adjusted via linear articulation.

[0038] While the lever 166 is depicted as being on a top surface of the housing 158, it should be appreciated that the lever 166 could be located on a front surface of the housing 158 (e.g., facing the occupant or seating location), an end surface of the housing (e.g., facing a passenger window if the visor assembly 10 is aligned with the driver seating location), or a bottom surface of the housing 158. The lever 166 may extend from the housing 158 and be coupled (e.g., integrally or otherwise) to the sleeve 162, such that linear movement of the lever 166 translates to linear movement of the sleeve 162. Alternatively or in addition to the lever 166, the driving mechanism 48 may be located within the housing 158 and be configured to move the sleeve 162 via a user's interaction with the user interface 50 or detecting the presence of the connection rod 156 within the bay 160 (e.g., via a sensor 67 in operable communication with the driving mechanism 48). The driving mechanism 48 in the second construction may be configured to linear movement of the sleeve 162. In this manner, the driving mechanism may include a motor- driven pinion gear and the sleeve 162 may include rack teeth, a solenoid device with a movable plunger, another type of piston / plunger systems, and / or the like.

[0039] With reference now to FIGS. 5 through 6B, an anti-vibration latch assembly 224 of a third construction is depicted. The anti-vibration latch assembly 224 of the third construction may share the same features, elements, and functions as the other constructions described herein. More particularly, the anti-vibration latch assembly 224 includes a connection rod 256 that may extend toward (e.g., in a proximate relationship with) the second side 38 and at least one anti-vibration latch 226A, 226B. The at least one anti-vibration latch 126 may include a first anti-vibration latch 226A (FIGS. 5 and 6A) and a second anti-vibration latch 226B (FIGS. 5 and 6B). The first anti-vibration latch 226A may be located to connect to the connection rod 256 (e.g., proximate the second side 38) and the second anti-vibration latch 226B may be located on the first side 36 proximate a bottom edge of the visor body 14 for connection to a detent 270 connected to the visor body 14. The first anti-vibration latch 226A may be pivotally mounted with respect to the interior 22 and define a first mouth 264A that pivots into connection with the connection rod 256. The second anti-vibration latch 226B may also be pivotally mounted with respect to the interior 22 and define a second mouth 264B that pivots into connection with the detent 270. While not explicitly shown, a sensor 67 may be utilized in one or both of the anti-vibration latches 226A, 226B. In the third construction, the driving mechanism 48 may include a driving motor that rotates a pivot pin 272 coupled to the anti-vibration latches 226A, 226B.

[0040] With reference now to FIGS. 7A-7D, an anti-vibration latch assembly 324 of a fourth construction is depicted. The anti-vibration latch assembly 324 of the fourth construction may share the same features, elements, and functions as the other constructions described herein. More particularly, the anti-vibration latch assembly 324 is defined by at least one modified connection member 316 (e.g., a pair of connection members 316). More particularly, the anti-vibration latch assembly 324 includes at least one track 372A, 372B including inwardly extending teeth 374 defined by one of the pair of connection members 316 (e.g., both connection members 316), and a circular gear 376A, 376B including outwardly extending teeth 378 intermeshed with the inwardly extending teeth 374. The circular gear 376A, 376B is rotationally coupled to the visor body 14.

[0041] With continued reference to FIGS. 7A-7D, the circular gear 376A, 376B may travel along the at least one track 372A, 372B manually and / or via the driving mechanism 48 that effectuates movement of a circular gear 376A, 376B along the at least one track 372A,372B. In some embodiments, the at least one track includes a pair of tracks (e.g., a first track 372A and a second track 372B) each defining the inwardly extending teeth and the circular gear 376A, 376B includes a pair of circular gears 376A, 376B (e.g., a first circular gear 376A and a second circular gear 376B) each located in one of tracks 372A, 372B. In some embodiments, one of a tracks 372A, 372B is substantially straight and another track 372A, 372B is substantially curved. In this manner, the travel path of both circular gears 376A, 376B is different resulting in articulation of the visor body 14 between the stowed position, the extended position, and the intermediate positions. More particularly, the first track 372A may be located above the second track 372B and be curved relative (e.g., diverging away towards a front of the vehicle 12) from the second track 372B. As such, as the circular gears 376A, 376B travel within the diverging tracks 372A, 372B, the visor body 14 is caused to rotate into the extended position. In some embodiments, such as that depicted in FIGS. 7A-7C, the first circular gear 376A and first track 372A include intermeshed teeth 374, 378 that are different in size or number to the second circular gear 376B and second track 372B and / or the first circular gear 376A and the second circular gear 376B may be driven at different rates of rotation. In some embodiments, each of the connection members 316 defines tracks 372A, 372B and the visor body 14 includes circular gears 376A, 376B on both the first and second sides 36, 38.

[0042] With reference to FIG. 7D, in the fourth construction, the driving mechanism 48 may include at least one motor that selectively rotates at least one of the circular gears 376A, 376B (e.g., via a shaft 380 on the motor and / or the circular gears 376A, 376B). For example, the at least one motor may include a single motor driving only one of the circular gears 376A, 376B, a first motor driving one of the first circular gear 376A and / or the second circular gear 376B in one connection members 316 and a second motor driving one of the first circular gear 376A and / or the second circular gear 376B in the other connection member 316, or a motor for each of the circular gears 376A, 376B. In implementations that permit manual articulation of the visor body 14, in addition or alternatively from the driving mechanism 48, the circular gears 376A, 376B may be coupled to the shaft 380 on a fixed axis that permits rotation. The circular gears 376A, 376B may each or in combination include a torque requirement to prevent unintended articulation caused by road conditions. For example, the torque requirement may be, for example,1Z lbs. or more, 1 lb. or more, 2 lbs. or more, 5 lbs. or more, of rotational force before the circular gears376A, 376B begin to rotate. As depicted, the connection members 316 may include ribs 379A, 379B spaced from and following the tracks 372A, 372B that define the inwardly extending teeth 374. In this manner, the tracks 372A, 372B may have a width W that is smallerthan a diameter of the circulargears 376A, 376B, such that the circular gears 376A, 376B are retained on a side of the tracks 372A, 372B opposite the visor body 14. In this manner, the shafts 380 of the circular gears 376A, 376B may extend from the visor body 14, through the tracks 372A, 372B, and to the circular gears 376A, 376B.

[0043] The disclosure herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by combinations of any and all of the various aspects described therein.

[0044] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position. A connection member extends between a first end connected to the visor body and a second end configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitates pivotal movement of the visor body. An anti-vibration latch assembly configured to be coupled to an interior of a vehicle. The anti-vibrational latch assembly includes at least one anti-vibration latch that is moveable between a locked position where the at least one anti-vibration latch is coupled to and prevents vibration and decoupling of the visor body, and an unlocked position where the at least one anti-vibration latch is decoupled from the visor body and permits the visor body to be freely moved.

[0045] According to another aspect, a visor body extends longitudinally from a first side proximate a connection member to a second side proximate an at least one anti-vibration latch.

[0046] According to yet another aspect, at least one anti-vibration latch includes a mouth that articulates on a pivot pin and a visor body includes at least one detent that selectively couples with the mouth in the locked position.

[0047] According to still yet another aspect, at least one anti-vibration latch includes a first anti-vibration latch proximate a second side of a visor body and a second anti-vibration latch proximate a first side of a visor body and the visor body includes a first detent that selectively couples with a mouth of the first anti-vibration latch and a second detent that selectively couples with a mouth of the second ant-vibration latch.

[0048] According to another aspect, the visor body includes a bottom edge and the second detent is located on the second end and proximate the bottom edge.

[0049] According to yet another aspect, a visor body includes a connection rod and the at least one anti-vibration latch includes a housing with a bay that receives the connection rod in a locked position.

[0050] According to still yet another aspect a catch is located in the housing and defines a mouth that accommodates the connection rod and rotates into the locked position.

[0051] According to another aspect, a lever extends from the housing and is coupled to the catch for manual rotation.

[0052] According to yet another aspect, a slidable sleeve is located in the housing and defines a channel that slides into engagement with the connection rod in the locked position.

[0053] According to still yet another aspect, a lever extends from the housing and is coupled to the slidable sleeve for manual movement.

[0054] According to another aspect, a driving mechanism including a motor located in the housing and configured to articulate the at least one anti-vibration latch between the locked and unlocked positions.

[0055] According to yet another aspect, wherein the visor body includes a battery and at least one of a display and an electro-optic device.

[0056] According to still yet another aspect, wherein the visor body is detachable from the connection member and configured to be used as a portable display.

[0057] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position. A pair of connection members extend between a first portion connected to the visor body and a second portion that is configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitates pivotal movement of the visor body. An anti-vibration latch assembly includes at least one track and inwardly extending teeth defined by one of the pair of connection members, and a circular gear including outwardly extending teeth intermeshed with the inwardly extending teeth. The circular gear is rotationally coupled to the visor assembly.

[0058] According to another aspect, a driving mechanism rotates at least one circular gear effectuating movement of a circular gear along at least one track.

[0059] According to yet another aspect, at least one track includes a pair of tracks defined by one of the pair of connection members each of the pair of tracks is located proximate a different series of the inwardly extending teeth, and wherein the circular gear includes a pair of circular gears each located in different ones of the tracks.

[0060] According to still yet another aspect, one of the tracks is substantially straight and another track is substantially curved.

[0061] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position. A battery, a control system, and a display are coupled to the visor body. A connection member extends between a first end connected to the visor body and a second end configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitates pivotal movement of the visor body. An anti-vibration latch assembly configured to be coupled to an interior of a vehicle. The anti-vibrational latch assembly includes an anti-vibration latch that is moveable between a locked position where the anti-vibration latch is coupled to and prevents vibration and decoupling of the visor body, and an unlocked position where the antivibration latch is decoupled from the visor body and permits the visor body to be freely moved.

[0062] According to another aspect, a communication module configured to be in operable communication with a control system of a vehicle, and wherein the display is configured to generate at least one of a warning and a notification from the vehicle control system.

[0063] According to yet another aspect, a connection member includes an electrical connector and the visor body is configured to charge the battery when the visor body is connected to the connection member via the electrical connector.

[0064] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

[0065] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electricalor mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

[0066] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure, as shown in the exemplary embodiments, is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and / or members or connectors or other elements of the system may be varied, and the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0067] It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

[0068] It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A visor assembly comprising: a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position; a connection member extending between a first end connected to the visor body and a second end configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitating pivotal movement of the visor body; and an anti-vibration latch assembly configured to be coupled to an interiorof a vehicle, the anti-vibrational latch assembly including at least one anti-vibration latch that is moveable between a locked position wherein the at least one anti-vibration latch is coupled to and prevents vibration and decoupling of the visor body and an unlocked position wherein the at least one anti-vibration latch is decoupled from the visor body and permits the visor body to be freely moved.

2. The visor assembly of claim 1, wherein the visor body extends longitudinally from a first side proximate the connection member to a second side proximate the at least one anti-vibration latch.

3. The visor assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least one anti-vibration latch includes a mouth that articulates on a pivot pin and the visor body includes at least one detent that selectively couples with the mouth in the locked position.

4. The visor assembly of claim 2, wherein the at least one anti-vibration latch includes a first anti-vibration latch proximate the second side and a second anti-vibration latch proximate the first side and the visor body includes a first detent that selectively couples with a mouth of the first anti-vibration latch and a second detent that selectively couples with a mouth of the second ant-vibration latch.

5. The visor assembly of claim 4, wherein the visor body includes a bottom edge and the second detent is located on the second end and proximate the bottom edge.

6. The visor assembly of claim 2, wherein the visor body includes a connection rod and the at least one anti-vibration latch includes a housing with a bay that receives the connection rod in the locked position.

7. The visor assembly of claim 6, wherein a catch is located in the housing and defines a mouth that accommodates the connection rod and rotates into the locked position.

8. The visor assembly of claim 7, wherein a lever extends from the housing and is coupled to the catch for manual rotation.

9. The visor assembly of claim 6, wherein a slidable sleeve is located in the housing and defines a channel that slides into engagement with the connection rod in the locked position.

10. The visor assembly of claim 9, wherein a lever extends from the housing and is coupled to the slidable sleeve for manual movement.

11. The visor assembly as in one of claim 7 or claim 9, further including a driving mechanism including a motor located in the housing and configured to articulate the at least one anti-vibration latch between the locked and unlocked positions.

12. The visor assembly as in one of claims 3, 7, or 9, wherein the visor body includes a battery and at least one of a display and an electro-optic device.

13. The visor assembly of claim 12, wherein the visor body is detachable from the connection member and configured to be used as a portable display.

14. A visor assembly comprising: a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position; a pair of connection members extending between a first portion connected to the visor body and a second portion configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitating pivotal movement of the visor body; andan anti-vibration latch assembly including: at least one track and inwardly extending teeth defined by one of the pair of connection members; a circular gear including outwardly extending teeth intermeshed with the inwardly extending teeth, the circular gear rotationally coupled to the visor assembly.

15. The visor assembly of claim 14, further including a driving mechanism that rotates the at least one circular gear effectuating movement of the circular gear along the at least one track.

16. The visor assembly as in claim 14 or 15, wherein the at least one track includes a pair of tracks defined by one of the pair of connection members each of the pair of tracks is located proximate a different series of the inwardly extending teeth, and wherein the circular gear includes a pair of circular gears each located in different ones of the tracks.

17. The visor assembly of claim 16, wherein one of the tracks is substantially straight and the other track is substantially curved.

18. A visor assembly comprising: a visor body pivotal between a stowed position and an extended position; a battery, a control system, and a display coupled to the visor body; a connection member extending between a first end selectively connected to the visor body and a second end configured to connect to an interior of a vehicle, the connection member facilitating pivotal movement of the visor body; and an anti-vibration latch assembly configured to be coupled to an interiorof a vehicle, the anti-vibrational latch assembly including an anti-vibration latch that is moveable between a locked position wherein the anti-vibration latch is coupled to and prevents vibration and decoupling of the visor body and an unlocked position wherein the antivibration latch is decoupled from the visor body and permits the visor body to be freely moved.

19. The visor assembly as in claim 18, further including a communication module configured to be in operable communication with a control system of a vehicle, and wherein the display is configured to generate at least one of a warning and a notification from the vehicle control system.

20. The visor assembly as in claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the connection member includes an electrical connector and the visor body is configured to charge the battery when the visor body is connected to the connection member via the electrical connector.

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