Rearview Mirror Adjustment Aid Using Rear Window Edge Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adjusting the rear-view mirror in a motor vehicle is challenging in dark environments, as the rear window frame is not easily distinguishable, leading to potential safety issues due to the need for interior lighting adjustments or repeated adjustments in changing light conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of lighting means arranged near the rear window or at the rear of the vehicle, which are automatically switched on when the driver adjusts the seat, using existing vehicle lights or specialized position lights, to enhance visibility of the rear window frame, and a sensor to detect driver interaction for automatic activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the vehicle's interior light is switched on to adjust the rearview mirror, then the rear window frame becomes visible, but the driver's eyes need time to readjust to darkness and additional steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting means are activated automatically when the ignition is turned on or when the rearview mirror adjustment is initiated, providing illumination before the driver needs to make adjustments. This preliminary lighting action eliminates the need for manual light switching and allows immediate mirror adjustment without subsequent eye readjustment time
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects when mirror adjustment is needed and activates the lighting means without driver intervention. The control unit monitors adjustment movements and autonomously controls the lighting, eliminating manual switching steps and reducing overall adjustment time
2Illumination intensity
If the interior light is switched on to see the rear window frame, then the frame becomes distinguishable, but hazardous situations may not be recognized in time during the readjustment period
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of illuminating the entire cabin, the lighting means are positioned specifically at the rear window area to provide localized illumination only where needed for mirror adjustment. This selective lighting maintains darkness in the driver's immediate field of view, preserving hazard recognition capability while enabling frame visibility
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting is activated automatically and temporarily only during the adjustment phase, providing illumination exactly when and where needed. After adjustment completion, the lighting is automatically deactivated, immediately restoring full darkness adaptation for optimal hazard recognition
3Ease of operation
If adjustment is repeated in changing light conditions after the journey has begun, then the rearview mirror can be corrected, but the driver is distracted from driving
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs the mirror adjustment function automatically using sensors and actuators, eliminating the need for manual adjustment operations during driving. The preliminary automatic adjustment at ignition eliminates subsequent adjustment needs during the journey
Solution Approach 2:
The rearview mirror adjustment system operates autonomously through control units that detect adjustment needs and execute corrections without driver involvement. This self-adjusting capability removes distraction while maintaining adjustment effectiveness in changing light conditions
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
Facilitates safe and efficient adjustment of the rear-view mirror in dark conditions by providing clear visibility of the rear window frame without distracting the driver and reducing the risk of missing hazards.
Implementation Method 1
The lighting means are arranged such that, when the motor vehicle is in a dark environment and the lighting means are switched on, the edge of the rear window or a lateral contour of the motor vehicle stands out at least partially from the surroundings behind the motor vehicle when looking in the rearview mirror
Data Source
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Figure 3~5
AI summary
A setting aid for a rear-view mirror (108) in a motor vehicle (100) has one or more illumination means (102; 110, 112, 114) in spatial proximity to one or more edges of a rear window (104) or at the rear of the motor vehicle. The one or more illumination means (102; 110, 112, 114) are arranged such that if the motor vehicle (100) is in dark surroundings and the one or more illumination means (102; 110, 112, 114) are switched on, the edge of the rear window (104) or a lateral contour of the motor vehicle (100) stands out, when looking in the rear-view mirror (108), at least in certain regions from the surroundings behind the motor vehicle (100). A first means is provided which automatically switches on the one or more illumination means (102; 110, 112, 114) during the setting of the rear-view mirror (108) if a setting of the rear-view mirror (108) is required, with the setting of the rear-view mirror being assumed to be required if a change in the setting of the driver's seat has been noticed.