Rotatable Rearview Arm for Wider Camera Coverage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rear-view devices, particularly camera-based systems, have limited solid angles and are not easily retrofittable to replace traditional mirror-based systems, leading to blind spots and high installation costs.
Innovation Solution
A rear-view device with a rotatable arm mounted via a first fastening device, featuring multiple pivot points and spring elements, allowing the arm to move between operating, alternative, and parking positions, and equipped with various sensors such as cameras, IR, radar, or lidar, which can be positioned and oriented freely using a second fastening device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a camera-based system is used to replace traditional rearview mirrors, then modernization and digital integration are achieved, but the solid angle coverage is limited and blind spots increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a rotatable arm mechanism that allows the camera to dynamically change its orientation and coverage area. The arm can rotate about a vertical axis and be adjusted to different angular positions, enabling the camera to sweep across a wider solid angle and eliminate blind spots while maintaining digital integration benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a mechanical rotation dimension to the static camera system. By introducing the rotatable arm that can pivot about a vertical axis, the system transitions from a fixed two-dimensional field of view to a three-dimensional scanning capability, significantly expanding the effective solid angle coverage
2Area of moving object
If multiple sensors are used to cover a comparable area to traditional rearview mirrors, then blind spots are reduced, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple static sensors simultaneously, the patent employs a single sensor mounted on a rotatable arm that dynamically scans the environment. This dynamic scanning approach achieves comprehensive coverage with one sensor, avoiding the complexity and cost of deploying multiple sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable arm performs periodic scanning motions to cover different angular sectors. By systematically rotating through various positions, the single sensor periodically captures images of different areas, achieving complete coverage over time without requiring multiple sensors operating simultaneously
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional rearview mirrors are replaced with camera-based systems, then modernization is achieved, but retrofitting effort and cost become disproportionate
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable arm mechanism is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate different vehicle types and existing mirror mounting locations. The fastening device can be attached to various supporting structures, making the camera-based system universally applicable for retrofitting different vehicles without requiring vehicle-specific customizations
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable arm provides mechanical flexibility that compensates for the lack of vehicle-specific integration. By allowing manual adjustment to different angular positions, the system can be adapted to various mounting locations and vehicle geometries, simplifying the retrofitting process across different vehicle models
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 improved solid angle coverage, reduces blind spots, and allows for simple and cost-effective retrofitting of traditional rear-view devices with camera-based systems, enhancing vehicle safety and monitoring capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first spring element, by means of which the arm can be forced into the avoidance position
Implementation Method 2
at least one second spring element, by means of which the arm can be forced into the operating position
Implementation Method 3
at least one third spring element, preferably a pair of third spring elements, by means of which the arm can be held in the operating position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a rear view device (1) for a vehicle (17), comprising at least one sensor (13, 15) for detecting information from the surroundings of the vehicle (17), wherein the rear view device (1) can be fastened by means of at least one first fastening apparatus (5) to the supporting structure of the vehicle (17), wherein the rear view device (1) comprises at least one arm (3), which is mounted, by means of the first fastening apparatus (5), so as to be able to rotate about at least one first fulcrum for a first rotation about at least one first axis of rotation (D1) having at least one vertical component. The invention further relates to a vehicle having such a rear view device.