Rotatable Rearview Arm for Wider Vehicle Sensor Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview devices, especially camera-based systems, have limited solid angles and are not easily retrofittable to traditional vehicles, leading to blind spots and high replacement costs.
Innovation Solution
A rearview device with a rotatable arm equipped with sensors, such as cameras or radar, that can be positioned and locked in various configurations using a fastening device with pivot points and spring elements, allowing for a 360° view and easy installation on vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a camera-based rearview system is used, then the system can be integrated into modern vehicles, but the solid angle coverage is limited and multiple sensors are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the mirror assembly rotatable about a vertical axis through the use of a rotatable arm mounted on a pivot point. This allows the mirror to dynamically adjust its orientation and coverage area, enabling a single camera to achieve broader solid angle coverage by capturing images at multiple orientations throughout the rotation range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the rearview function into multiple discrete image capture positions achieved through rotation. Instead of requiring multiple fixed sensors simultaneously, the system captures sequential images at different angular positions, effectively dividing the total coverage area into multiple segments that are compiled to provide comprehensive environmental monitoring.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple sensors are used to cover the required area, then the solid angle coverage is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using multiple static sensors, the patent employs a single sensor mounted on a dynamically rotatable arm. The rotation mechanism allows one sensor to occupy multiple spatial positions and orientations, replacing what would otherwise require multiple fixed sensors to achieve the same coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic rotation of the arm to sequentially position the sensor at different angular locations. By rotating the arm through a defined range and capturing images at discrete positions, the system achieves comprehensive coverage using a single sensor that periodically samples different spatial zones.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mirror-based rearview devices are replaced by camera-based systems, then modern vehicle integration is achieved, but replacement costs become disproportionate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal mounting system with a fastening device that can be attached to various vehicle types and support structures. The rotatable arm assembly with pivot point provides a standardized interface that accommodates different installation locations, making the camera-based system adaptable to both new and existing vehicles without requiring vehicle-specific customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable arm mechanism provides adaptive positioning capability that allows the camera to be optimally oriented for different vehicle configurations and installation locations. This dynamic adjustment feature enables a single standardized camera assembly to replace various traditional mirror types 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 range, allows for seamless monitoring of the vehicle's environment, and enables cost-effective replacement of traditional mirror-based systems with camera-based systems, ensuring safety and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
spring element, by means of which the arm is suitable to be forced into the avoidance position
Data Source
AI summary
A rearview device for a vehicle (17) includes at least one sensor for detecting information of the environment of the vehicle, where the rearview device is attachable to the supporting structure of the vehicle by using at least one first fastening device, and the rearview device includes at least one arm which is rotatably mounted by the first fastening device about at least one first axis of rotation which has at least one vertical component about at least one first pivot point for a first rotation.