Rear Window Lateral Mirror Assembly for Vehicle Blind Spot Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drivers face challenges in safely maneuvering vehicles due to blind spots, particularly when reversing out of parking spaces, as they cannot easily view objects lateral to the rear portion of the vehicle, leading to potential collisions with pedestrians or other vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A lateral-view mirror assembly is integrated into the rear window of a vehicle, positioned in line of sight with the rear-view mirror, allowing drivers to view objects laterally by reflecting images from dedicated mirrors, and is adjustable and programmable for specific preferences and parking scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lateral-view mirror is positioned on the top surface of the rear portion of the vehicle, then the driver can view objects lateral to the rear portion of the vehicle, but the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary solution by mounting lateral-view mirrors on the rear window glass surface rather than on the top surface of the rear portion. This intermediary location (the window) serves as a compromise that enables the viewing function while preserving the vehicle's aesthetic appearance, as the mirrors are integrated into the window area rather than protruding from the body.
2Reliability
If the driver backs out slowly to alert pedestrians and vehicles, then safety is improved by alerting others, but the time required to complete the maneuver increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by providing the driver with real-time visual information from lateral mirrors mounted on the rear window. This feedback mechanism allows the driver to see pedestrians, vehicles, and obstacles in the lateral rear zones, enabling informed decision-making about when it is safe to complete the reversing maneuver quickly, thus reducing the time lost while maintaining safety.
3Loss of information
If the driver turns around to view surrounding areas, then the field of vision is improved, but the driver's forward focus is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent solves this contradiction by adding another dimension to the driver's field of vision through lateral mirrors mounted on the rear window. Instead of requiring the driver to physically turn around (changing orientation), the mirrors provide lateral and rear visual information in the driver's existing forward-facing field of view, allowing simultaneous monitoring of multiple zones without losing forward focus.
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
Enhances the driver's field of vision when reversing, reducing the risk of collisions by providing a clear view of lateral objects, and allowing for customizable mirror positions for improved visibility and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the first lateral-view mirror being dimensioned to allow a driver to view objects positioned lateral to a passenger's side of a rear portion of the vehicle by looking at a reflection of the objects reflected from the first lateral-view mirror to the rear-view mirror to the driver
Data Source
AI summary
A lateral-view mirror assembly comprising a housing having a first lateral-view mirror and a second lateral-view mirror coupled to a rear window of a vehicle and dimensioned to provide a driver of a vehicle with the ability to view objects positioned lateral to a rear portion of the vehicle by looking at a reflection of the objects reflected from the first and second lateral-view mirrors to the rear-view mirror to the driver. The lateral-view mirror assembly is helpful when backing out of a parking space and also when changing lanes.