Visor with magnetic position sensing

Abstract

A visor assembly includes a visor body. The visor body includes a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges. An optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter and includes an electro-optic device configured to switch between transmissive states. A magnetic sensor is coupled to the visor body and configured to detect a magnetic field. A control system is in communication with the magnetic sensor. The control system is configured to receive the detected magnetic field, and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions.

Description

Atty. Docket No. AUTO 05154T GEN010 FP1414AWOVISOR WITH MAGNETIC POSITION SENSING CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 728,757, filed on December 6, 2024, entitled "VISOR WITH MAGNETIC POSITION SENSING," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a visor assembly with a positional sensor.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body. The visor body includes a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges. An optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter and includes an electro-optic device configured to switch between transmissive states. A magnetic sensor is coupled to the visor body and configured to detect a magnetic field. A control system is in communication with the magnetic sensor. The control system is configured to receive the detected magnetic field and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body. The visor body includes a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges. An optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter and includes an electro-optic device configured to switch between a substantially transmissive state and a substantially darkened state. A magnetic sensor is coupled to the visor body and configured to detect a magnetic field. A control system is in communication with the magnetic sensor. The control system is configured to receive the detected magnetic field and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions. The control system is further configured to selectively switch the electro-optic device between transmissive statesbased on determining if the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body. The visor body includes a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges. An optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter and includes a reflective element configured to switch between a transmissive state and a reflective state. A magnetic sensor is coupled to the visor body and configured to detect a magnetic field. A control system is in communication with the magnetic sensor. The control system is configured to receive the detected magnetic field and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions. The control system is further configured to selectively switch the reflective element between the transmissive state and the reflective state based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

[0006] Visors are typically moveable between a stowed position and a variety of extended positions. More particularly, a front visor surface may be articulated towards a driver in an extended forward-facing position and away from the driver in a side-facing position. Generally, visors are relatively simple components of a vehicle that may include a mirror and one or more lights. However, as technology advances and visors incorporate additional electronic components, it becomes more and more beneficial to determine the position of the visor when operating the electronic components.

[0007] 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

[0008] In the drawings:

[0009] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an interior of a vehicle that includes a visor assembly, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 2 is a front partially schematic view of a visor assembly with a magnetic sensor, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a graph illustrating changes in a magnetic field when a visor assembly is moved between positions, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0012] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an optical stack within a visor assembly, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a visor assembly with a positional sensor. 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 skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0014] 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 refer to 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.

[0015] 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 moreconstraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0016] Referring initially to FIGS. 1-4, reference numeral 10 generally designates a visor assembly for a vehicle 12 (e.g., automobile, aircraft, and / or the like). The visor assembly 10 includes a visor body 14. The visor body 14 includes a front visor surface 16 and a rear visor surface 18 delimited by an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes an upper edge 20 spaced from a lower edge 22 by a pair of side edges 24. An optical stack 25 is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter and includes an electro-optic device 26 configured to switch between a substantially transmissive state and a substantially darkened state. At least one magnetic sensor 28 is coupled to the visor body 14 and configured to detect a magnetic field. A control system 100 is in communication with the magnetic sensor 28. The control system 100 is configured to receive the detected magnetic field and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body 14 is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions.

[0017] With continued reference to FIGS. 1-4, the optical stack may further include a reflective element 30 (e.g., a layer) switchable between a transmissive state and a reflective state, wherein light is reflected in a direction from the front surface of the visor body 14 back towards an intended viewer. The reflective element 30 may generally have the same shape and size as the electro-optic device 26. In this manner, the optical stack 25 may be switchable between transmissive states and reflective states. Based on feedback from the magnetic sensor 28, the control system 100 may be configured to activate various components of the visor assembly 10 and, more particularly, the optical stack 25. For example, the electro-optic device 26 may be selectively activated or deactivated based on the detected position of the visor body 14. While specific scenarios will be described below, in one implementation, the control system 100 may deactivate the electro-optic device 26 when the visor body 14 is in the stowed position for energysaving purposes. Similarly, the reflective element 30 may be selectively activated or deactivated based on the detected position of the visor body 14.

[0018] With reference now to FIG. 1, the visor body 14 may be configured to connect to a vehicle interior 32. More particularly, the visor assembly 10 may include a connection member 34 connected to the visor body 14 and configured to connect the visor body 14 to an overhead portion 36 of the vehicle interior 32. The connection member 34 facilitatesmovement of the visor body 14 between the stowed position and the plurality of extended positions, wherein the optical stack 25 can be utilized in the reflective state as a mirror and / or in the transmissive states. The connection member 34 may allow movement of the visor body 14 about a first horizontal or Y-axis and a second horizontal or X-axis. In some implementations, the connection member 34 may also permit movement (e.g., pivotal) about a vertical or Z-axis. The at least one magnetic sensor 28 may include a 3-axis magnetic field sensor. In this manner, the magnetic field can be detected based on movement along at least two axes (e.g., along all three axes).

[0019] With continued reference to FIG. 1, in the depicted arrangement, at least one magnetic element 38 may be located in a static position relative to the vehicle 12. In this manner, as the visor body 14 is moved between positions, changes in the magnetic field (e.g., along one, two, or three axes) can be detected based on the proximity between the magnetic element 38 and the magnetic sensor 28. It should be appreciated that, in some implementations, the magnetic sensor 28 may be statically coupled to the vehicle 12 while the magnetic element 38 may be located in or otherwise coupled to the visor body 14 and still generally function according to the principles described herein. In the depicted arrangement, the magnetic element 38 is configured as a releasable catch 40 (FIG. 2) configured to couple to the interior of the vehicle 12. The magnetic element 38 (e.g., the releasable catch 40) may be formed of magnetic material. The visor body 14 may include a rod 42 or, more generally, a latch that is configured to couple with the releasable catch 40. The rod 42 (e.g., latch) may be formed, at least in part, of ferromagnetic material such that it is attracted to the releasable catch 40. The releasable catch 40 may include a bay 44 with a curved inner surface to accommodate a circumference of the rod 42. In some embodiments, the at least one magnetic sensor 28 is configured to detect magnetic flux through the rod 42 or other latch as the rod 42 or latch is moved relative to the magnetic element 38. Changes in magnetic flux may be used to at least determine between the stowed position, the plurality of extended positions, and / or the rotated positions. It should be appreciated that, in some implementations, the at least one magnetic element 38 may be coupled to and moveable with the visor body 14 while the magnetic sensor 28 is statically coupled to the vehicle 12. Generally, the same detection principles described herein will also be applied to switching the locations of the at least one magnetic element 38 and the magnetic sensor 28.

[0020] In some implementations, the visor assembly 10 may incorporate two or more magnetic sensors and / or two or more magnetic elements 38. The magnetic elements 38 may be permanent magnetics, electro-magnets (e.g., where the rod 42 functions as an armature), an induction sensor with an induction coil, a single permanent magnet with a multi-pole configuration (e.g., having more than one pole on each side), and / or the like. When multiple magnetic sensors 28 or multi-axis magnetic sensors 28 are employed, the hall effects can be detected (e.g., via a dual hall sensor) when a visor extension is utilized to detect changes in magnetic field strength and / or direction / polarity as the magnet element(s) 28 and magnetic sensor(s) 28 move relative to each other. Alternatively, or additionally to the dual hall sensing, other sensing principles can be utilized without departing from the scope of the subject disclosure, such as giant magneto resistance, anisotropic magneto resistance, and / or other sensing principles. Further, in some embodiments, the magnetic sensor 28 may include a mechanical element, such as a ball that is pulled into a location on the printed circuit board (PCB) 50 to bridge an electronic connection based on attraction to the at least one magnetic element 38.

[0021] The plurality of extended positions may be defined with respect to the X, Y, and Z- axis. The permitted movement about any given axis or two or more axes may include an extended position with a minimum angle, an extended position with a maximum angle, and intermediate extended positions. For example, in the extended position with a minimum angle along the X-axis (e.g., rotation towards and away a front window), the front visor surface 16 may generally face the overhead portion 36 of the vehicle interior 32. In the extended position with an intermediate angle along the X-axis (e.g., rotation towards and away a front window), the front visor surface 16 may generally face a user. In the extended position with a maximum angle along the X-axis (e.g., rotation towards and away a front window), the front visor surface 16 may be upwardly towards the front window. The same maximum, minimum, and intermediate extended positions could also, likewise, be defined with respect to the Y and Z-axes wherein the minimum angle represents a position proximate the stowed position, the maximum angle represents the total available movement relative to the Y and Z-axis, and the intermediate position represents a position halfway between the minimum and maximum angles. Further, it should be appreciated that the plurality of extended positions may include angles between the minimum and intermediate angles and the maximum and intermediate angles.

[0022] The magnetic sensor 28 may be a single axis sensor, a multi-axis sensor, or a 3-axis sensor. Further, the magnetic sensor 28 may include two or more magnetic sensors 28 in any combination of the single axis sensor, the multi-axis sensor, the 3-axis sensor. Based on the precision of the one or more magnetic sensors 28, the control system 100 may further be configured to switch different components of the optical stack 25 (e.g., the electro-optic device 26 and / or the reflective element 30) based on which of the plurality of extended positions the visor body 14 is located. For example, the control system 100 may be configured to increase the transmissivity proportionate to the visor body 14 position between the intermediate angle and the maximum angle (and vice versa). In this way, as the visor body 14 is angled from the user's face, the transmissivity can increase while still visually appearing darkened and blocking light from an angle between the user's eyes and the ambient lighting. In a similar way, the reflective element 30 may be switched when the visor body 14 is moved into a position where the front visor surface 16 facing a side window of the vehicle to prevent unwanted reflections towards the exterior of the vehicle 12.

[0023] As best depicted in FIG. 2, the optical stack 25 may further include display 41 that generates images, videos, graphics, and / or the like. In some embodiments, at least one imager module 45 is located in the interior and / or exterior the vehicle 12 and the display 41 may be configured to generate images captured by the imager module 45. In some embodiments, the at least one imager module 45 may be located in a rearview mirror assembly 46 (FIG. 1) for occupant monitoring assistance and / or the exterior of the vehicle 12 for monitoring environments exterior to the vehicle 12. As used herein, the terms the upper edge 20, the lower edge 22, and the side edges 24 are not meant to infer shape of the visor body 14. More particularly, the upper edge 20, the lower edge 22, and the side edges 24 may be linear, curved, steps, or any combination thereof. For example, while not specifically depicted in the figures, the visor body 14 may be fully or partially circular, where the edges 20, 22, 24 can be deduced to equally split radians or curved distances.

[0024] With continued reference to FIG. 2, when the optical stack 25 is referred to as located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter, it should be appreciated that the optical stack 25 may at least partially define the outer perimeter or be recessed inside of and spaced from the outer perimeter. In some implementations, a bezel and / or frame may extend around the optical stack. In the depicted arrangement, a visor header 48 (e.g.,a portion of the visor body 14) is located proximate to and defines the upper edge 20. The magnetic sensor 28 may be located closer to the upper edge 20 than the lower edge 22. In some implementations, the magnetic sensor 28 is located in the header 48. In some embodiments, the control system 100 may be located, at least in part, on a printed circuit board 50 located in the visor body 14. For example, a processor, a memory, and / or other control circuitry that instructs the various components of the visor assembly 10 (e.g., the optical stack 25) may be located on the PCB 50. The magnetic sensor 28 may likewise be located on the PCB 50 and in communication with the control system 100 via one or more traces on the PCB 50.

[0025] While the at least one magnetic element 38 may include a single magnetic element 38 located in the releasable catch 40, in the depicted arrangement, two magnetic elements 38 are utilized. The two magnetic elements 38 may be spaced from one another along a depth or the Y-axis and, more particularly, in a direction between a front of the vehicle 12 and the rear of the vehicle 12. In this manner, movement of the visor body 14 along the X and Y-axis can be accurately detected (e.g., via the Hall effect, giant magneto resistance, anisotropic magneto resistance, and / or other sensing principles). It should be appreciated that the depicted arrangement is exemplary in nature and the magnetic element 38 may have other numbers, locations, and constructions. For example, one or more magnetic elements 38 may include a multi-pole configuration (e.g., having more than one pole on each side, either integrally or otherwise packaged with one another). The visor body 14 may include a user interface 49 in communication with the control system 100 for controlling features of the visor assembly 10. In this manner, the visor assembly 10 may be substantially a stand-alone unit that receives power from the vehicle 12.

[0026] With reference now to FIG. 3, a graph illustrates changes in the magnetic field along the X, Y, and Z axes when the visor body 14 is moved between the stowed position and the plurality of extended positions. These detectable changes may be associated with thresholds or models saved in the control system 100 (e.g., the memory). In this manner, the control system 100 can interpret the magnetic field along the X, Y, and Z axes to determine the precise positioning on the visor body 14. Based on the detected position, the control system 100 is configured to perform the steps, functions, and methods described herein.

[0027] With reference now to FIG. 4, the optical stack 25 is depicted as including the electro-optic device 26 and the reflective element 30. The electro-optic device 26 may be configured to switch between transmissive states and may be configured as an electrochromic device configured to switch (e.g., dim) between a substantially transparent and a substantially opaque state, a liquid crystal device that dims or scatters light, other electro-active variably transmissive technologies, and / or the like. The electro-optic device 26 may include an electro-optic medium, a thin film electrolyte, and / or the like. The reflective element 30 may include a reflective polarizer 51, an absorbing polarizer 52, and a liquid crystal element 54 located between the reflective polarizer 51 and the absorbing polarizer 52. The absorbing polarizer 52 may be configured to absorb a first linear polarization of light Pl. The liquid crystal element 54 may be located towards the rear visor surface 18 relative to the absorbing polarizer 52 that is configured to selectively change a second linear polarization of light P2 to the first linear polarization of light Pl. The reflective polarizer 51 may be configured to reflect the first linear polarization of light Pl and transmit the second polarization of light P2.

[0028] In this manner, the optical stack 25 includes, from the front visor surface 16 towards the rear visor surface 18, the absorbing polarizer 52, the liquid crystal element 54, the reflective polarizer 51, and the electro-optic device 26. In some embodiments, the optical stack 25 may further include a front substrate 58 (e.g., glass or plastic) on the front visor surface 16, a first layer of laminate 60 between the front substrate 58 and the absorbing polarizer 52, a second layer of laminate 62 between the reflective polarizer 51 and the electro-optic device 26, and a third layer of laminate 64 between the electro-optic device 26 and a rear substrate 66 (e.g., glass or plastic) on the rear visor surface 18. The layers of laminate 60-64 may be formed of polyvinyl butyral ("PVB").

[0029] In operation, light entering the front visor surface 16 enters the absorbing polarizer 52 and the first linear polarization of light Pl is absorbed and the second linear polarization of light P2 is transmitted to the liquid crystal element 54. The liquid crystal element 54 includes an LC medium that contains liquid crystal molecules. Application of an electrical field induces twisting and / or untwisting of liquid crystal molecules and results in the rotation of the polarization of the light (e.g., between the first linear polarization of light Pl and the second linear polarization light of light P2). In some embodiments, the liquid crystal element 54 includes a twisted nematic configuration such that the liquid crystalmolecules are in a twisted alignment until an electric field induces movement into an untwisted state. Therefore, the liquid crystal element 54 can be utilized to selectively transmit the second linear polarization of light P2, which is reflected from the reflective polarizer 51 (e.g., in a mirror state) and selectively convert the second linear polarization of light P2 to the first linear polarization of light Pl that is transmitted through the reflective polarizer 51 (e.g., in a transmissive or mirror state). When the first linear polarization of light Pl that is transmitted through the reflective polarizer 51, the first linear polarization of light Pl can be further modified by switching the electro-optic medium between the substantially transmissive state and the substantially darkened or reduced transmissive state. The utilization of the electro-optic device 26 may be particularly beneficial in darkening the optical stack 25 in the window state.

[0030] The control system 100 may be located in the visor body 14 (e.g., as depicted) and / or otherwise located in the vehicle and in operable communication with the visor assembly 10. The control system 100 may include a processor and a memory. For example, the processor may include any suitable processor. Additionally, or alternatively, the control system 100 may include any suitable number of processors. The memory may comprise a single disk or a plurality of disks (e.g., hard drives) and includes a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the memory. In some embodiments, memory may include flash memory, semiconductor (solid state) memory, or the like. The memory may include Random Access Memory (RAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), or a combination thereof. Alternatively, or in addition to the processor and memory, the control system 100 may utilize logic circuitry for performing the functions, operations, and tasks described herein. The control system 100 is in operable communication with the at least one magnetic sensor 28, the electro-optic device 26, the reflective element 30, the display 41, and the user interface 49. In this manner, the control system 100 operates, changes a status or state, and / or otherwise controls the electro-optic device 26, the reflective element 30, the display 41, and the user interface 49 based, at least in part, on the detected position of the visor body 14. For example, if the front visor surface 16 is detected as being extended and facing a driver and / or occupant, the electro-optic device 26 may be switched to a first partially transmissive state. However, once the front visor surface 16 is detected as being extended and angled from but generally still visible to thedriver and / or occupant, the electro-optic device 26 may be switched to a second partially transmissive state that has greater transmissivity than the first partially transmissive state. In other scenarios, if the front visor surface 16 is detected as being extended and facing a driver and / or occupant, the reflective element 30 may be switched to a reflective state (e.g., via the user interface 49). However, upon the visor body 14 being articulated such that the front visor surface 16 faces outwardly, the control system 100 may deactivate or turn the reflective element 30 into a transmissive state to prevent unwanted reflections into the operating environment (e.g., to prevent reflected light from interfering with other drivers or persons within the environment). In a similar manner, the display 41 may only be operable or usable when the visor body 14 is detected in a position where the display 41 is visible by the driver and / or occupant for a reduction in power usage. More generally, the control system 100 may be configured to detect a position (e.g., receive the detected position from the magnetic sensor 28) of the visor assembly 10 and perform an action, such as sending a signal, to change a state of an electronic component of the visor assembly 10 based, at least in part, on the detected position of the visor body 14.

[0031] 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.

[0032] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body. The visor body includes a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges. An optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter and includes an electro-optic device configured to switch between a substantially transmissive state and a substantially darkened state. A magnetic sensor is coupled to the visor body and configured to detect a magnetic field. A control system is in communication with the magnetic sensor. The control system is configured to receive the detected magnetic field and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions.

[0033] According to another aspect, the magnetic sensor includes a 3-axis magnetic field sensor.

[0034] According to yet another aspect, a connection member extending between a first end connected to the visor body and a second end configured to connect to an interior ofa vehicle, the connection member facilitating movement of the visor body about at least two axes in the plurality of extended positions.

[0035] According to still another aspect, a releasable catch configured to couple to the interior of the vehicle, the at least one releasable catch at least partially formed of a magnetic material.

[0036] According to another aspect, the visor body includes a rod formed, at least in part, of ferromagnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the releasable catch.

[0037] According to yet another aspect, the magnetic sensor is configured to detect a magnetic flux in the rod.

[0038] According to still another aspect, the magnetic sensor is located closer to the upper edge of the visor body than the lower edge of the visor body.

[0039] According to still yet another aspect, the control system is located, at least in part, on a printed circuit board ("PCB") located in the visor body.

[0040] According to another aspect, the control system is further configured to selectively switch the electro-optic device between transmissive states based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

[0041] According to yet another aspect, the control system is configured to reduce the transmissivity when the visor body is articulated to one of the plurality of extended positions.

[0042] According to still another aspect, the plurality of extended positions includes an extended position with a minimum angle, an extended position with a maximum angle, and intermediate extended positions, and the control system is configured to increase the transmissivity proportionate to the visor body position between the intermediate angle and the maximum angle.

[0043] According to another aspect, the optical stack includes a reflective element switchable between a transmissive state and a reflective state, wherein light is reflected from in a direction from the front surface of the visor body back towards an intended viewer.

[0044] According to yet another aspect, the control system is configured to switch the state of the reflective element based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

[0045] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body. The visor body includes a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges. An optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter and includes an electro-optic device configured to switch between a substantially transmissive state and a substantially darkened state. A magnetic sensor is coupled to the visor body and configured to detect a magnetic field. A control system is in communication with the magnetic sensor. The control system is configured to receive the detected magnetic field and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions. The control system is further configured to selectively switch the electro-optic device between transmissive states based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

[0046] According to another aspect, the control system and the magnetic sensor are located on a common printed circuit board ("PCB") located in the visor body.

[0047] According to yet another aspect, the optical stack includes a reflective element switchable between a transmissive state and a reflective state, and the control system is configured to switch the state of the reflective element based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

[0048] According to still another aspect, the control system is configured to switch the reflective element to the transmissive state upon determining that the front visor surface is facing an exterior of an associated vehicle.

[0049] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a visor assembly includes a visor body. The visor body includes a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges. An optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter and includes a reflective element configured to switch between a transmissive state and a reflective state. A magnetic sensor is coupled to the visor body and configured to detect a magnetic field. A control system is in communication with the magnetic sensor. The control system is configured to receive the detected magnetic field and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions. The control system is further configured to selectively switch thereflective element between the transmissive state and the reflective state based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

[0050] According to another aspect, the control system is configured to switch the reflective element to the transmissive state upon determining that the front visor surface is facing an exterior of an associated vehicle.

[0051] According to yet another aspect, a visor assembly includes a display and a control system is configured to turn off the display upon determining that a front visor surface is facing an exterior of an associated vehicle.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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 (electrical or 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.

[0054] As used herein, the term "about" means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art. When the term "about" is used in describing a value or an end-point of a range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or end-point referred to. Whether or not a numerical value or end-point of a range in the specification recites "about," the numerical value or end-point of a range is intended to include two embodiments: one modified by "about," and one not modified by "about." It will be further understood that the end-points of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other end-point, and independently of the other end-point.

[0055] The terms "substantial," "substantially," and variations thereof as used herein are intended to note that a described feature is equal or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a "substantially planar" surface is intended to denote a surface that is planar or approximately planar. Moreover, "substantially" is intended to denote that two values are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, "substantially" may denote values within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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 moveable between a stowed position and a plurality of extended positions, the visor body including a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter, the outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges; an optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter, the optical stack including an electro-optic device configured to switch between transmissive states; a magnetic sensor coupled to the visor body configured to detect a magnetic field; and a control system in communication with the magnetic sensor, the control system configured to: receive the detected magnetic field; and determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions.

2. The visor assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic sensor includes a 3-axis magnetic field sensor.

3. The visor assembly of claim 2, further including 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 movement of the visor body about at least two axes in the plurality of extended positions.

4. The visor assembly as in one of claims 1-3, further including a releasable catch configured to couple to the interior of the vehicle, the at least one releasable catch at least partially formed of a magnetic material.

5. The visor assembly of claim 4, wherein the visor body includes a rod formed, at least in part, of ferromagnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the releasable catch.

6. The visor assembly of claim 5, wherein the magnetic sensor is configured to detect a magnetic flux in the rod.

7. The visor assembly as in one of claims 1-3, wherein the magnetic sensor is located closer to the upper edge of the visor body than the lower edge of the visor body.

8. The visor assembly as in one of claims 1-3, wherein the control system is located, at least in part, on a printed circuit board ("PCB") located in the visor body.

9. The visor assembly of claim 8, wherein the control system is further configured to selectively switch the electro-optic device between transmissive states based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

10. The visor assembly of claim 9, wherein the control system is configured to reduce the transmissivity when the visor body is articulated to one of the plurality of extended positions.

11. The visor assembly of claim 10, wherein the plurality of extended positions includes an extended position with a minimum angle, an extended position with a maximum angle, and intermediate extended positions, and the control system is configured to increase the transmissivity proportionate to the visor body position between the intermediate angle and the maximum angle.

12. The visor assembly as in one of claim 1-3, wherein the optical stack includes a reflective element switchable between a transmissive state and a reflective state, wherein light is reflected from in a direction from the front surface of the visor body back towards an intended viewer.

13. The visor assembly of claim 12, wherein the control system is configured to switch the state of the reflective element based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

14. A visor assembly comprising: a visor body moveable about at least two axes between a stowed position and a plurality of extended positions, the visor body including a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter, the outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges; an optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter, the optical stack including an electro-optic device configured to switch between a substantially transmissive state and a substantially darkened state; a magnetic sensor coupled to the visor body configured to detect a magnetic field along the at least two axes; and a control system in communication with the magnetic sensor, the control system configured to: receive the detected magnetic field; determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions; and selectively switch the electro-optic device between transmissive states based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

15. The visor assembly of claim 14, wherein the control system and the magnetic sensor are located on a common printed circuit board ("PCB") located in the visor body.

16. The visor assembly as in claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the optical stack includes a reflective element switchable between a transmissive state and a reflective state, and the control system is configured to switch the state of the reflective element based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

17. The visor assembly of claim 16, wherein the control system is configured to switch the reflective element to the transmissive state upon determining that the front visor surface is facing an exterior of an associated vehicle.

18. A visor assembly comprising: a visor body moveable between a stowed position and a plurality of extended positions, the visor body including a front visor surface and a rear visor surface delimited by an outer perimeter, the outer perimeter includes an upper edge spaced from a lower edge by a pair of side edges; an optical stack is located, at least in part, within the outer perimeter, the optical stack including a reflective element configured to switch between a transmissive state and a reflective state; a magnetic sensor coupled to the visor body configured to detect a magnetic field; and a control system in communication with the magnetic sensor, the control system configured to: receive the detected magnetic field; determine, based on the magnetic field, if the visor body is in the stowed position or the plurality of extended positions; and selectively switch the reflective element between the transmissive state and the reflective state based on the determination that the visor body is in the stowed position or one of the plurality of extended positions.

19. The visor assembly of claim 18, wherein the control system is configured to switch the reflective element to the transmissive state upon determining that the front visor surface is facing an exterior of an associated vehicle.

20. The visor assembly of claim 18 or claim 19, further including a display and wherein the control system is configured to turn off the display upon determining that the front visor surface is facing an exterior of an associated vehicle.

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