Electrochromic Mirror Module With Back-Surface Touch Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic rearview mirrors face challenges with control interface accessibility and functionality, particularly with switch and button placement obstructing the driver's view and limited functionality in wing mirrors.
Innovation Solution
An electrochromic mirror module incorporating a light-transmissive substrate with an opaque touch sensing layer and an electrochromic device, where the touch sensing layer is strategically positioned on the back surface to allow for peripheral control without obstructing the visible surface, and additional features like reflective layers and light-emitting devices enhance functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If switch and button are located on the reflective surface, then the control interface is easily accessible, but the control elements obstruct the driver's rearview vision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control interface elements from the reflective surface and relocates them to the side surface of the mirror housing. This separation removes the obstructive controls from the driver's field of view while preserving their functionality, allowing the reflective surface to remain fully clear for optimal rearward visibility.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electrochromic material is applied to wing mirrors, then the anti-glare function is provided, but additional functionality such as turn signal indication and blind spot detection is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the wing mirror assembly, including electrochromic anti-glare capability, turn signal indication through integrated LEDs, and blind spot detection through sensors. This multi-functional design allows a single mirror component to perform diverse safety and visibility functions, enhancing overall vehicle safety systems.
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 solution provides an accessible control interface that does not obstruct the driver's view, enhances the functionality of both rearview and wing mirrors, and offers improved safety features like turn signal indication and blind spot detection.
Implementation Method 1
an electrochromic device is disposed on the back surface with the opaque touch sensing layer
Implementation Method 2
The opaque touch sensing layer has patterned metal electrode and connecting circuit
Data Source
AI summary
An electrochromic mirror module including a light-transmissive substrate, an opaque touch sensing layer and an electrochromic device is provided. The light-transmissive substrate has a visible surface and a back surface disposed opposite to the visible surface. The opaque touch sensing layer and the electrochromic layer are disposed on the back surface. Distribution areas of the opaque touch sensing layer and the electrochromic layer are different on the back surface. An electrochromic mirror module including reflective layer and electrochromic device is also provided.