Detachable Safety Mirror for Motor Vehicle Rearview
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera systems in motor vehicles pose a security risk due to the potential failure of camera images, which limits their use in providing rearward traffic conditions to drivers.
Innovation Solution
A safety mirror system that includes a substrate with a reflective layer and a fastening structure, allowing attachment to either a sun visor or camera mount, with locking elements for secure attachment and easy detachment, ensuring the mirror can be used as a rearview mirror in case of camera system failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a camera system is used to replace exterior rearview mirrors, then the driver obtains a better impression of rearward traffic conditions, but there is a security risk due to potential camera system failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by providing a backup mirror element that can be attached to the sun visor in advance. This backup mirror serves as a safety net in case the camera system fails, ensuring continuous rearward visibility without compromising the primary camera-based monitoring system's functionality.
2Ease of operation
If a mirror element is integrated into the sun visor, then the mirror is easily accessible to drivers and passengers, but the mirror cannot be repositioned or removed if the camera system is operational
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the mirror element detachable and repositionable. The mirror can be moved from the sun visor to the camera mount or removed entirely based on operational needs. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt between camera-based monitoring and traditional mirror-based visibility, providing operational flexibility while maintaining ease of access when needed.
3Strength
If the mirror element is made with a reflective coating on a polymer substrate, then the mirror surface is durable and lightweight, but the attachment structure must be securely integrated without compromising the reflective surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the mirror element from the attachment structure. The mirror element with its reflective coating on a polymer substrate is designed as a distinct component that can be independently attached to either the sun visor or camera mount. This segmentation simplifies the attachment structure, allowing secure integration without compromising the reflective surface, as the attachment mechanisms are designed to engage with the mirror's mounting elements without contacting or damaging the reflective coating.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The safety mirror system provides a secure and functional rearview capability by allowing easy detachment from the sun visor and attachment to the camera mount, ensuring continuous visibility and compliance with legal requirements, while minimizing the risk of injury from mirror edges and maintaining a clear mirror surface.
Implementation Method 1
a substrate (22) which is provided on one side with a reflective layer (22.2) for providing a mirror surface
Data Source
AI summary
A safety mirror for a motor vehicle includes at least one sun visor including a mirror element in a folded down position; and at least one camera or monitoring system including at least one camera for taking images of an area behind and adjacent to the motor vehicle; and at least one camera mount for attaching the camera to the motor vehicle, where the safety mirror includes the mirror element and at least one attachment structure for selectively attaching the safety mirror to the sun visor or the camera mount. A motor vehicle includes such a safety mirror.