Electro-optic rearview mirror

Abstract

An electro-optic mirror includes a housing having an outer surface defining a housing perimeter, wherein the housing defines an interior space and a peripheral edge extending along the housing perimeter and at least partially defining the outer surface, a first substrate having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first substrate defines a first perimeter and a first beveled edge extending along the first perimeter, and wherein the first beveled edge is aligned with the outer surface of the housing at the peripheral edge, and a second substrate having a third surface facing the second surface of the first substrate and a fourth surface situated at least partially within the interior space, wherein the second substrate defines a second perimeter and a second beveled edge extending along the second perimeter, and wherein the second beveled edge at least partially supports the peripheral edge of the housing.

Description

Atty. Docket No. Auto 05223TGEN010 FP1425AWOELECTRO-OPTIC REARVIEW MIRRORCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 740,696, filed on December 31, 2024, entitled "ELECTRO-OPTIC REARVIEW MIRROR," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to an electro-optic mirror, and more specifically, to an electro-optic mirror having an electro-optic panel with two substrates.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an electro-optic mirror includes a first substrate having a first surface defining a first beveled edge and a second surface defining a first perimeter, a second substrate having a third surface defining a second perimeter and a fourth surface defining a second beveled edge, wherein the third surface of the second substrate faces the second surface of the first substrate, and a concealing layer disposed between the second surface of the first substrate and the third surface of the second substrate, wherein the concealing layer extends along the second perimeter of the second substrate. A housing at least partially contains the second substrate, wherein the housing defines a peripheral edge extending along the first and second perimeters of the first and second substrates, respectively. The first perimeter is larger than the second perimeter, wherein the peripheral edge of the housing is situated outward relative to the second perimeter, wherein the peripheral edge of the housing aligns with the first perimeter, and wherein a width of the concealing layer is a function of an offset distance between the first and second perimeters.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an electro-optic rearview mirror for a vehicle includes a housing havingan outer surface defininga housing perimeter, wherein the housing defines an interior space and a peripheral edge extending along the housing perimeter and at least partially defining the outer surface, a first substrate having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first substrate defines a first perimeter and a first beveled edge extending along the first perimeter, and wherein the first beveled edge isaligned with the outersurface of the housingat the peripheral edge, and a second substrate having a third surface facing the second surface of the first substrate and a fourth surface situated at least partially within the interior space, wherein the second substrate defines a second perimeter and a second beveled edge extending along the second perimeter, and wherein the second beveled edge at least partially supports the peripheral edge of the housing.

[0005] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an electro-optic panel is coupled to a housing a nd includes a first substrate having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface faces away from the housing and defines a first beveled edge, and wherein the second surface defines a first perimeter of the first substrate at which the first beveled edge meets the second surface, and a second substrate havinga third surface and a fourth surface, wherein the third surface defines a second peri meter of the second substrate, and wherein a fourth surface defines a second beveled edge that meets the third surface at the second perimeter. The housinghasan outersurface defininga housingperimeterand an inner surface defining an interior space at least partially containingthe second substrate, wherein an angle of the inner surface proximate the second beveled edge relativeto the third surface is substantially equal to an angle of the second beveled edge relative to the third surface.

[0006] With regard to the electro-optic mirror shown and described herein, the offset between the first perimeter of the first substrate and the second perimeter of the second substrate allows for a decrease in the width of the concealing layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The reduction in the width of the concealing layer advantageously reduces weight and manufacturing costs of the electro-optic mirror. Moreover, the reduction in the width of the concealing layer may increase the homogeneity of one or more features of the electro-optic mirror, such as light-redirecting properties, which may enhance the performance of the electro-optic mirror, increase user convenience, and decrease the noticeability of the concealing layer for a user interact! ng with the electro-optic mirror.

[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 electro-optic rearview mirror having a two- substrate electro-optic panel;

[0010] FIG. 2 isa front exploded perspective view of the electro-optic rearview mirrorof FIG.1, where the two-substrate electro-optic panel includes a first substrate, a second substrate, and a concealing layer, and where the electro-optic panel is coupled to a housing via a bracket;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a side elevation cross-sectional view of the electro-optic rearview mirror of FIG. 1 taken along section Ill-Ill, where the first substrate and the second substrate define a first beveled edge and a second beveled edge, respectively, and where a peripheral edge of the housing is in contact with the second beveled edge;

[0012] FIG.4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a bottom side of the electro-optic rearview mirror of FIG. 1, where the concealing layer runs along a second perimeter of the second substrate, and where an inner surface of the housing proximate the peripheral edge is in contact with the second beveled edge of the second substrate;

[0013] FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the bottom side of the electro-optic rearview mirror of FIG. 1, where the inner surface of the housing proximate the peripheral edge is spaced from the second beveled edge of the second substrate; and

[0014] FIG. 6 is a lower-left perspective view of the electro-optic rearview mirror of FIG. 1, where the housing, the first substrate, and the concealing layer define equidistantly curved corners, and wherein a gap separates the first substrate and the peripheral edge of the housing.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to an electro-optic mirror. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showingonly those specificdetails 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 ski II in the art havingthe benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

[0016] 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 a surface of the device closest to an intended viewer, and the term "rear" shall refer to a surface of the device furthest from the intended viewer. 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 thefollowingspecifi cation, are simply exemplaryembodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions a nd other physical characteristics relatingto the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0017] The terms "including," "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to covera non-exclusive inclusion, such thata process, method, article, orapparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include onlythose 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.

[0018] Referringto FIGS. 1 and 2, reference numeral 10 generally designates an electro-optic mirror. The electro-optic mirror 10 includes a first substrate 12 having a first surface 14 defining a first beveled edge 16 and a second surface 18 defining a first perimeter 20. The electro-optic mirror 10 further includes a second substrate 22 having a third surface 24 defining a second perimeter 26 and a fourth surface 28 defining a second beveled edge 30, where thethird surface 24 of the second substrate 22 faces the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12. A concealing layer 32 is disposed between the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 and the third surface 24 of the second substrate 22, wherein the concealing layer 32 extends alongthe second perimeter 26 of the second substrate 22. A housing 34 at least partially containsthe second substrate 22, the housing34 defininga peripheral edge 36 that extendsalongthe first perimeter20 of the first substrate 12 and the second perimeter26 of the second substrate 22. As illustrated, the first perimeter 20 is larger than the secondperimeter 26, and the peripheral edge 36 of the housing 34 is aligned with the first perimeter 20. A width W of the concealing layer 32 is a function of an offset distance dobetween the first perimeter 20 and the second perimeter 26.

[0019] The housing 34 has a top side 38, a bottom side 40 vertically spaced from the top side 38, a Ieft side42, and a rightside 44 laterallyspaced from the left side 42, where the left side 42 and the right side 44 extend between the top side 38 and the bottom side 40. The top side 38, the bottom side 40, the left side 42, and the right side 44 define a housing perimeter 46. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the housing 34 further includes an arcuate outer surface 48, an inner surface 50, and a center portion 52, where the inner surface 50 defines an interior space 54 within the housing 34 and the outer surface 48 continuously spans the center portion 52 and the peripheral edge 36, forming a curved transition profile between the center portion 52 and the peripheral edge 36. Here, the arcuate outer surface 48 defines the housing perimeter 46. The peripheral edge 36 extends along and partially defines the housing perimeter 46. Particularly, the peripheral edge 36 protrudes in a first direction dl substantially parallel to a lateral axis LI of the housing 34 that is substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis L2 of the housing 34. The peripheral edge 36 is typically gradually tapered along the first direction dl. In some configurations, a fastening mechanism 56 extends from the outer surface 48 proximate the center portion 52, the fastening mechanism 56 being configured to couple the housing 34 to a vehicle. The fastening mechanism 56 may be adjustable in some configurations. The housing 34 may be made from a material such as plastic, for example. It is contemplated that the outer surface 48 of the housing 34 may be alternatively curved. Forexample, the outer surface 48 at the center portion 52 may be flat.

[0020] Referring still to FIGS. 1 and 2, an electro-optic panel 58 is coupled to the housing 34 via a bracket 60 disposed within the interior space 54 defined by the housing 34. The electrooptic panel 58 includes the first substrate 12, the second substrate 22, and the concealing layer 32. According to one aspect, an electro-optic medium is disposed between the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 22, and one or more conductive components are configured to deliver electrical energy to the electro-optic panel 58. The concealing layer 32 (sometimes referred to as a hiding layer or a chrome ring) is disposed between the first substrate 12 and the one or more conductive components to effectively hide the one or more conductive components from view by an observer facing the first surface 14 of the first substrate 12. The first substrate 12 includes the first surface 14 and the second surface 18,where the first surface 14 faces away from the housing 34, and where the second surface 18 faces toward the housing 34.

[0021] With reference to FIG. 3, the first surface 14 of the first substrate 12 defines the first beveled edge 16, and the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 defines the first perimeter 20 that aligns with the peripheral edge 36, where the first beveled edge 16 of the first surface 14 converges with the second surface 18 at the first perimeter 20. The outer surface 48 of the housing 34 at the peripheral edge 36 aligns with the first perimeter 20 such that the outer surface 48 is flush with the first surface 14 at the first beveled edge 16. The illustrated first beveled edge 16 is a filleted edge. This filleted edge may have a radius R between about two millimeters and about three millimeters. In some configurations, the radius R of the filleted edge maybe larger than about three millimeters or smaller than about two millimeters and may assist with hiding the concealing layer 32 behind the first beveled edge 16 and / or improving the interface between the housing 34 and the first substrate 12. It is contemplated that the first beveled edge 16 and the outer surface 48 of the housing 34 may be offset in some embodiments. According to various aspects, each of the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 22 may be made of a glass material, for example.

[0022] The first substrate 12, when aligned with the housing 34, substantially covers the interior space 54 of the housing 34. The second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 is spaced from the peripheral edge 36 of the housing 34 such that a gap 62 separates the peripheral edge 36 and the second surface 18. Alternatively, the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 may abut the peripheral edge 36 of the housing 34, as further discussed below. It is contemplated thatthe bracket 60 may be integrated into the housing 34 such that the electrooptic panel 58 directly couples to the housing 34.

[0023] Referringstill to FIG. 3, the second substrate 22 ofthe electro-optic mirror 10 includes the third surface 24 and the fourth surface 28. The third surface 24 of the second substrate 22 faces toward and extends along the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12, and the fourth surface 28 of thesecond substrate 22 faces away from the first substrate 12. The third surface 24 ofthe second substrate 22 defines the second perimeter 26, and the fourth surface 28 of thesecond substrate 22 defines the second beveled edge 30, where thesecond beveled edge 30 of the fourth surface 28 converges with the third surface 24 at the second perimeter 26. As illustrated, the second beveled edge 30 is a substantially linear, angled edge that converges with the third surface 24 of thesecond substrate 22 at the second perimeter 26. Itis contemplated that each of the first beveled edge 16 and the second beveled edge 30 may be a filleted, chamfered, orotherwise arcuate and / ortapered edge. Accordingto one aspect, the first beveled edge 16 and the second beveled edge 30 are formed via grinding. Here, this grinding may be provided before the intercoupling of the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 22. Additionally, the thickness of each of the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 22 may vary. For example, the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 22 may have different thicknesses.

[0024] The third surface 24 of the second substrate 22 extends along the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 such that the second substrate 22 at least partially covers the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first perimeter 20 of the first substrate 12 is larger than the second perimeter 26 of the second substrate 22. Here, the first perimeter 20 is offset from the second perimeter 26 by the offset distance dosuch that the first perimeter 20 is situated outwardly from the second perimeter 26. In some configurations, this offset distance dobetween the first perimeter 20 and the second perimeter 26 may be approximately 0.6 millimeters. The offset distance domay vary between configurations of the electro-optic mirror 10, which may affect the dimensions of other components, such as the peripheral edge 36 and the concealing layer 32. For example, increasing the offset distance domay allow for a thicker peripheral edge 36, which may increase the strength of the housing 34. Accordingto anotherexample, decreasingthe offset distance domay a llow for a decreased width W ofthe concealing layer 32, which may decrease manufacturing costs and weight of the electro-optic mirror 10.

[0025] With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the second substrate 22 is substantially surrounded by the peripheral edge 36 ofthe housing 34. Here, the first perimeter 20 of the first substrate 12 is aligned with the peripheral edge 36 such that the first surface 14 of the first substrate 12 is spaced from the housing 34 in the first direction dl along the lateral axis LI. In some configurations, the second substrate 22 may extend partially through an opening64 defined by the inner surface 50 ofthe housing 34 at the peripheral edge 36 such that the third surface 24 ofthe second substrate 22 is situated outside of the interiorspace 54 of the housing34. In other configurations, both the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 22 may be received by the interior space 54 within the housing 34 such that the first surface 14 is not spaced from the housing 34 in the first direction dl along the lateral axis LI. It is alsocontemplated that the peripheral edge 36 may extend further in the first direction dl along the lateral axis LI than the first substrate 12 and / or the second substrate 22.

[0026] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the bracket 60 is received within the interior space 54 of the housing 34. Here, the fourth surface 28 of the second substrate 22 is surrounded by the top, bottom, left, and right sides 38, 40, 42, 44 of the housing 34. The peripheral edge 36 is laterally spaced from the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12, proximate the first perimeter 20, in a second direction d2 along the lateral axis LI, the second direction d2 opposing the first direction dl. The second beveled edge 30 of the second substrate 22 extends along the housing perimeter 46. Particularly, the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36 is in contact with the fourth surface 28 of the second substrate 22 at least at the second beveled edge 30 alongthe bottom side 40 of the housing 34. As a result, the gap 62 separatesthe peripheral edge 36 and the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12. In some configurations, the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36 is in contact with substantially the entirety of the second beveled edge 30 at one or more locations alongthe housing peri meter 46 (e.g., the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36 is in contact with the second beveled edge 30 substantially from the second perimeter 26 of the second substrate 22 to a portion of the fourth surface 28 of the second substrate 22 within the second beveled edge 30). Here, the contact between the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36 and the second beveled edge 30 may form a linear interface profile. In alternative configurations, the peripheral edge 36 may abutthesecond surface 18 of the first substrate 12 in addition to or instead of being in contact with the second substrate 22. According to some aspects, the gap 62 between the peripheral edge 36 and the second surface 18 may provide for increasingly consistent dimensions ofthe electro-optic mirror 10 during manufacture and / or greater tolerances of components of the electro-optic mirror 10. The gap 62 may further enable the electro-optic mirror 10 to withstand deflection, vibration, and / or thermal expansion to an enhanced degree, thereby assistingin the prevention of undesirable effects with respect to the electro-optic mirror 10, such as cracking, residual stress, and warping, which may decrease the usability and / orthe lifespan ofthe electro-optic mirror 10. It is also contemplated that the gap 62 may provide a user with an enhanced grip when attempting to move, adjust, and / or interact with the electro-optic mirror 10. According to another embodiment, the gap 62 may further be partially or entirely filled with a seal to increase theprotection of components of the electro-optic mirror 10 from, for instance, fluid ingress into the interior space 54 of the housing 34, vibration, and deflection.

[0027] The second beveled edge 30 of the second substrate 22 is oriented at a bevel angle al relative to the third surface 24 of the second substrate 22. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the bevel angle al is an acute angle. The inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36 is oriented at an angle a2 (hereinafter "peripheral edge angle"), relative to the third surface 24 of the second substrate 22, that corresponds to the bevel angle al. The peripheral edge angle a2 of the electro-optic mirror 10 illustrated in FIG. 4 is substantially congruent with the bevel angle al. In some configurations, an angle a3 of the housing 34 between the peripheral edge 36 and the center portion 52 (hereinafter"housingangle") maybe obtuse. It is contemplated that the bevel angle al may be greater than an acute angle in some configurations. Accordingto various aspects, an increased bevel angle al can result in a more robust second beveled edge 30 to minimize the risk of undesired effects with respect to the electro-optic panel 58, such as cracking of the second substrate 22. Conversely, decreasing the bevel angle al can result in the electro-optic mirror 10 having a decreased weight and / or minimized dimensions. Here, one or more components of the electro-optic mirror 10 may have a decreased weight and minimized dimensions. Accordingto one non-limiting example, the bevel angle al maybe between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees.

[0028] Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4, the peripheral edge angle a2 may correspond to the bevel angle al. For example, decreasing the bevel angle al allows for a decrease in the peripheral edge angle a2, resultingin the peripheral edge 36 being better supported against external forces applied thereon. Accordingto various aspects, the housingangle a3 may also vary. For example, decreasingthe bevel angle al can result in an increased housingangle a3, which may provide for a slimmer mirror profile and an increased adjustability of the electroopticmirror 10. Conversely, increasing the bevel angle al can result in the peripheral edge 36 being better supported against externa I forces applied thereon in some instances. According to some aspects, the housing angle a3 may be decreased when the bevel angle al is increased. It is contemplated that the housing angle a3 may vary irrespective of the bevel angle al in some configurations.

[0029] Accordingto various implementations, the second beveled edge 30 extends alongthe second perimeter 26 of the second substrate 22. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36 is in contact with the secondbeveled edge 30 alongthe second perimeter26.The contact between the housing34and the second substrate 22 at the second beveled edge 30 may be continuous or interrupted. For example, the innersurface 50 of the housing34 proximatethe peripheral edge 36 may be in contact with the second substrate 22 along the top and bottom sides 38, 40 of the housing 34 while also abuttingthe second surface 18 of thefirst substrate 12 alongthe left and right sides 42, 44 of the housing 34.

[0030] With further reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximatethe peripheral edge 36 extends adjacent to the second beveled edge 30 along the bottom side 40 of the housing 34 such that the innersurface 50 is in contact with the second beveled edge 30. Along the top side 38 of the illustrated housing 34, the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36 may extend adjacent to and be in contact with the second substrate 22 proximate and alongthe second perimeter 26. Along at least a portion of the top side 38 of the housing 34, the innersurface 50 extends from the peripheral edge 36 and the second perimeter 26 in a direction inclined from the second beveled edge 30, therebyforminga gradually-increasingsecond gap 66 between the innersurface 50ofthe housing 34 and the fourth surface 28 of the second substrate 22. Notably, the bevel angle al of the second substrate 22 may vary along the second perimeter 26 in some configurations. For example, the bevel angle al may be different proximate the top side 38 of the housing 34 relative to the bevel angle al proximate the bottom side 40 of the housing 34. Moreover, the innersurface 50 of the housing 34 proximatethe peripheral edge 36 may extend adjacent to the second beveled edge 30 proximate the top side 38 of the housing 34 such that the inner surface 50 is in contact with the second beveled edge 30.

[0031] In some configurations, such as configurations where the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 is not in contact with the second substrate 22 at the second beveled edge 30, the second perimeter 26 of the second substrate 22 may be decreased. Additionally or alternatively, the peripheral edge 36 maybe supported bythe first substrate 12 and may abut the second surface 18 ofthefirst substrate 12. In otherconfigu rations, such asconfigurations where the innersurface 50 of the housing 34 is in contact with the second substrate 22 at the second beveled edge 30, and not the first substrate 12, the peripheral edge 36 may be supported bythe second substrate 22. Here, a thicknessof the peripheral edge 36 may have an enhanced taper in the first direction dl alongthe lateral axis LI. In an embodiment where the housing 34 is in contact with both the first and second substrates 12, 22, the peripheraledge 36 may, for example, be supported by both the first substrate 12 at the second surface 18 and the second substrate 22 at the second beveled edge 30, further increasing robustness of the electro-optic mirror 10.

[0032] According to various implementations, the housing 34 may be in contact with the fourth surface 28 of the second substrate 22 atone or more locations in addition to or instead of the second beveled edge 30. In some configurations, the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 may be in contact with the second substrate 22 at the second perimeter 26 such that the second gap 66 is defined between the housing 34 and at least a substantial portion of the second beveled edge 30. In another configuration, one or more support ribs may interpose the housing 34 and the second substrate 22 such that the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 is in contact with the fourth surface 28 of the second substrate 22 at one or more locations otherthan the second beveled edge 30, in additionto or instead ofthe second beveled edge 30. It is further contemplated that the housing 34 may maintain a spaced relationship with both the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 22 in some configurations.

[0033] With reference to FIGS. 3-5, the electro-optic mirror 10 further includes the concealing layer 32 with an annular body configured to conceal one or more conductive components through which an electriccurrent may flowto enable operation ofthe electro-optic mirror 10 between activation states. The concealing layer 32 is disposed between the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 and the third surface 24 ofthe second substrate 22 proximate the second perimeter 26. The width W of the concealing layer 32 is typically constant as the concealing layer 32 continuously extends along the second perimeter 26 of the second substrate 22. Particularly, the width W of the concealing layer 32 is a function of the offset distance dobetween the first perimeter 20 ofthe first substrate 12 and the second perimeter 26 of the second substrate 22. Accordingly, the width W of the concealing layer 32 may be decreased in response to a decrease in the offset distance dobetween the first perimeter 20 and the second perimeter 26. The width W of the concealing layer 32 may, for example, be reduced by the difference between the offset distance dobetween the first perimeter 20 and the second perimeter 26 and an offset distance between the first perimeter 20 and the second perimeter 26 in a configuration where the fourth surface 28 ofthe second substrate 22 does not define the second beveled edge 30. Notably, the first beveled edge 16 may assist in hiding at least a portion ofthe concealing layer 32 from view by a user, as a size and / or a radius ofthe first beveled edge 16 maybe variable. It is further contemplated that the surfacefinish of the first beveled edge 16 and / or one or more other portions of the first substrate 12 may enhance concealment of the concealing layer 32. For example, the first beveled edge 16 and / orone or more otherportionsof the first substrate 12 (e.g., a peripheral portionof the first surface 14 inside the first beveled edge 16, a peripheral portion of the second surface 18, etc.) may have a frosted surface finish.

[0034] With reference to FIG. 5, the peripheral edge 36 of the housing 34 surrounds the second substrate 22 and maintains a spaced relationship with the second beveled edge 30 partially (e.g., along the bottom side 40 of the housing 34) or entirely along the housing perimeter46. Consequently, the second gap 66 is maintained between the second beveled edge 30 and the inner surface 50 of the housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36, which may allowforgreater manufa cturingtolerances of components ofthe electro-optic mirror 10 and / or greater assembly precision. The second gap 66 maintained between the second beveled edge 30 and the inner surface 50 ofthe housing 34 proximate the peripheral edge 36 may further reduce undesirable effects from thermal expansion, deflection, and / orvibration of components ofthe electro-optic mirror 10, such as cracking ofthe electro-optic mirror 10, residual stress ofthe electro-optic mirror 10, and warping of the electro-optic mirror 10. As illustrated, the peripheral edge 36 is further tapered, havinga substantially pointedterminal end 70 spaced from the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12. It is contemplated that the taper of the peripheral edge 36 may be gradual to provide the peripheral edge 36 with resistance to externally applied force and to provide a minimal second gap 66 between the second substrate 22 and the peripheral edge 36. Alternatively, this taper may have an increased severity, providing for a narrower terminal end 70 and thereby increasing the second gap 66 between the second substrate 22 and the peripheral edge 36. The terminal end 70 may further be truncated so as to provide for greater robustness of the peripheral edge 36 and / orto provide for enhanced contact with the second surface 18 in embodiments where the peripheral edge 36 contacts the second surface 18. According to another embodiment, the terminal end 70 may be rounded so as to modify the ability of a user to grip the electro-optic mirror 10 when attemptingto move, adjust, and / or interact with the electrooptic mirror 10.

[0035] With reference to FIG. 6, the width W of the illustrated concealing layer 32 is constant and extends continuously along the housing perimeter 46. As illustrated, the housing 34 defines rounded corners 72 that complement the curvature profile of the first substrate 12.Here, the concealing layer 32 extends along the rounded corners 72 equidistant to the rounded corners 72 of the housing 34. The concealing layer 32 is spaced from the first perimeter 20 of the first substrate 12 and the housing perimeter 46 and is therefore protectivelyshielded bythefirst beveled edge 16 and the outersurface 48 of the housing34 from an environment external to the electro-optic mirror 10. In alternative embodiments, the width W of the concealing layer 32 may be nonuniform, and the concealing layer 32 may be discontinuous. According to another aspect, the second beveled edge 30 may additionally extend a long the rounded corners 72 equidistant to the rounded corners 72 such that contact between the housing 34 and the second beveled edge 30 is substantially continuous.

[0036] The electro-optic mirror 10 shown and described herein includes a two-substrate construction that minimizes manufacturingcosts, reduces required manufacturing processes, and decreases manufacturing time relative to four-glass-substrate constructions. The construction of the electro-optic mirror 10 also results in a slim overall panel thickness compared to four-substrate constructions, which may save vehicle space and may improve automatic or manual adjustability of the electro-optic mirror 10. Furthermore, the minimized offset distance dobetween the first perimeter 20 of the first substrate 12 and the second perimeter 26 of the second substrate 22 enables a reduction in the width W of the concealing layer 32, which may decrease an observer's ability to detect the concealing layer 32 through the first substrate 12. The second beveled edge 30 of the second substrate 22 may further reduce weight of the electro-optic mirror 10 in addition to manufacturing costs and manufacturing time, and the close proximity between components and the overall construction of the electro-optic mirror 10 provide substantial cost savings as compared to previous designs, which included additional substrates.

[0037] 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.

[0038] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an electro-optic mirror includes a first substrate having a first surface defining a first beveled edge and a second surface defining a first perimeter, a second substrate having a third surface defining a second perimeter and a fourth surface defining a second beveled edge, wherein the third surface of the second substrate faces the second surface of the first substrate, and a concealing layer disposedbetween the second surface of the first substrate and the third surface of the second substrate, wherein the concealing layer extends along the second perimeter of the second substrate. A housing at least partially contains the second substrate, wherein the housing defines a peripheral edge extending along the first and second perimeters of the first and second substrates, respectively. The first perimeter is larger than the second perimeter, wherein the peripheral edge of the housing is situated outward relative to the second perimeter, wherein the peripheral edge of the housing aligns with the first perimeter, and wherein a width of the concealing layer is a function of an offset distance between the first and second perimeters.

[0039] According to another aspect, the first beveled edge is a filleted edge.

[0040] According to yet another aspect, the second beveled edge is a substantially linear, angled edge.

[0041] According to still yet another aspect, the peripheral edge extends from the housing in a lateral direction.

[0042] According to yet another aspect, an inner surface of the housing proximate the peripheral edge is in contact with the second beveled edge of the second substrate.

[0043] According to another aspect, the peripheral edge of the housing is in contact with the second surface of the first substrate.

[0044] According to yet another aspect, an outer surface of the housing proximate the peripheral edge is flush with the first beveled edge of the first substrate.

[0045] According to anotheraspect, an electro-optic rearview mirrorfor a vehicle includes a housing having an outer surface defining a housing perimeter, wherein the housing defines an interiorspace and a peripheral edge extending alongthe housing perimeterand at least partially defining the outer surface, a first substrate having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first substrate defines a first perimeter and a first beveled edge extending along the first perimeter, and wherein the first beveled edge is aligned with the outer surface of the housing at the peripheral edge, and a second substrate having a third surface facing the second surface of the first substrate and a fourth surface situated at least partially within the interiorspace, wherein the second substrate defines a second perimeter and a second beveled edge extending along the second perimeter, and wherein the second beveled edge at least partially supports the peripheral edge of the housing.

[0046] According to yet another aspect, the first beveled edge is a filleted edge and the second beveled edge is a substantially linear, angled edge.

[0047] According to still yet another aspect, an annular concealing layer is disposed between the second surface of the first substrate and the third surface of the second substrate, whereinthe concealing layer extendswithinthe second perimeter of the second substrate.

[0048] According to another aspect, a space between the first perimeter and the second perimeter is free from the concealing layer.

[0049] Accordingtoyet anotheraspect, the housingfurther includes an innersurface defining the interiorspace, wherein the innersurface of the housing proximate the peripheral edge is in contact with the second beveled edge of the second substrate.

[0050] Accordingto anotheraspect, the second substrate partially covers the second surface of the first substrate.

[0051] According to yet another aspect, the first beveled edge is offset from the second beveled edge.

[0052] According to still yet another aspect, an electro-optic panel is coupled to a housing and includes a first substrate having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface faces away from the housing a nd defines a first beveled edge, and wherein the second surface defines a first perimeter of the first substrate at which the first beveled edge meets the second surface, and a second substrate having a third surface and a fourth surface, wherein the third surface defines a second perimeter of the second substrate, and wherein a fourth surface defines a second beveled edge that meets the third surface at the second perimeter. The housing has an outer surface defining a housing perimeter and an inner surface definingan interiorspace at least partially containingthe second substrate, wherein an angle of the innersurface proximate the second beveled edge relative to the third surface is substantially equal to an angle of the second beveled edge relative to the third surface.

[0053] According to yet another aspect, the first beveled edge of the first substrate is flush with the outer surface of the housing at a peripheral edge of the housing.

[0054] Accordingto anotheraspect, a gap separatesthe second surface of the first substrate from the housing.

[0055] Accordingto yet anotheraspect, the second beveled edge is in contact with the inner surface of the housing.

[0056] Accordingto still yet anotheraspect, the second beveled edge is substantially linear.

[0057] Accordingto yet anotheraspect, the angle of the second beveled edge relative to the third surface is an acute angle.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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 connector or other elements of the system may be varied, 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.

[0060] It will be understood thatanydescribed processesorstepswithindescribed 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.

Claims

1. What is claimed is:

1. An electro-optic mirror, comprising:a first substrate having a first surface defining a first beveled edge and a second surface defining a first perimeter;a second substrate having a third surface defining a second perimeter and a fourth surface defining a second beveled edge, wherein the third surface of the second substrate faces the second surface of the first substrate;a concealing layer disposed between the second surface of the first substrate and the third surface of the second substrate, wherein the concealing layer extends a long the second perimeter of the second substrate; anda housing at least partially containing the second substrate, wherein the housing defines a peripheral edge extending along the first and second perimeters of the first and second substrates, respectively,wherein the first perimeter is larger than the second perimeter, wherein the peripheral edge of the housing is situated outward relative to the second perimeter, wherein the peripheral edge of the housing aligns with the first perimeter, and wherein a width of the concealing layer is a function of an offset distance between the first and second perimeters.

2. The electro-opticmirrorof claim 1, wherein the first beveled edge is a filleted edge.

3. The electro-optic mirror of eitherone of claims 1 and 2, wherein the second beveled edge is a substantially linear, angled edge.

4. The electro-optic mirror of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the peripheral edge extends from the housing in a lateral direction.

5. The electro-optic mirror of any one of claims 1-4, wherein an inner surface of the housing proximate the peripheral edge is in contact with the second beveled edge of the second substrate.

6. The electro-optic mirror of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the peripheral edge of the housing is in contact with the second surface of the first substrate.

7. The electro-optic mirror of any one of claims 1-6, wherein an outer surface of the housing proximate the peripheral edge is flush with the first beveled edge of the first substrate.

8. An electro-optic rearview mirror for a vehicle, comprising:a housing havingan outer surface defininga housing perimeter, wherein the housing defines an interior space and a peripheral edge extending a long the housing perimeter and at least partially defining the outer surface;a first substrate havinga first surface and a second surface, wherein the first substrate defines a first perimeter and a first beveled edge extending along the first perimeter, and wherein the first beveled edge is aligned with the outer surface of the housing at the peripheral edge; anda second substrate having a third surface facing the second surface of the first substrate and a fourth surface situated at least partially within the interior space, wherein the second substrate defines a second perimeterand a second beveled edge extendingalongthe second perimeter, and wherein the second beveled edge at least partially supports the peripheral edge of the housing.

9. The electro-optic rearview mirror of claim 8, wherein the first beveled edge is a filleted edge and the second beveled edge is a substantially linear, angled edge.

10. The electro-optic rearview mirror of either one of claims 8 and 9, further comprising:an annular concealing layer disposed between the second surface ofthe first substrate and the third surface of the second substrate, wherein the concealing layer extends within the second perimeter of the second substrate.

11. The electro-optic rearview mirror of claim 10, wherein a space between the first perimeter and the second perimeter is free from the concealing layer.

12. The electro-optic rearview mirror of any one of claims 8-11, wherein the housing further comprises:an innersurface definingthe interiorspace, wherein the innersurface of the housing proximate the peripheral edge is in contact with the second beveled edge of the second substrate.

13. The electro-optic rearview mirror of any one of claims 8-12, wherein the second substrate partially covers the second surface of the first substrate.

14. The electro-optic rearview mirror of any one of claims 8-13, wherein the first beveled edge is offset from the second beveled edge.

15. An electro-optic panel coupled to a housing, comprising:a first substrate having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface faces away from the housing a nd defines a first beveled edge, a nd wherein the second surface defines a first perimeter of the first substrate at which the first beveled edge meets the second surface;a second substrate having a third surface and a fourth surface, wherein the third surface defines a second perimeter of the second substrate, and wherein a fourth surface defines a second beveled edge that meets the third surface at the second perimeter, wherein the housing has an outer surface defining a housing perimeter and an inner surface defining an interior space at least partially containing the second substrate, and wherein an angle of the innersurface proximate the second beveled edge relative to the third surface is substantially equal to an angle of the second beveled edge relative to the third surface.

16. The electro-optic panel of claim 15, wherein the first beveled edge of the first substrate is flush with the outer surface of the housing at a peripheral edge of the housing.

17. The electro-optic panel ofeitheroneof claims 15 and 16, wherein agap separates the second surface of the first substrate from the housing.

18. The electro-opticpanel of anyone of claims 15-17, wherein the second beveled edge is in contact with the inner surface of the housing.

19. The electro-opticpanel of anyone of claims 15-18, wherein the second beveled edge is substantially linear.

20. The electro-optic panel of any one of claims 15-19, wherein the angle of the second beveled edge relative to the third surface is an acute angle.

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