Automobile Side View Mirror Angled Reflectors Blind Spot
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional side view mirrors in automobiles suffer from rear vision blind spots, which can lead to collisions due to limited visibility of approaching vehicles, and existing solutions like wider mirrors or auxiliary reflectors either increase size, cause distortion, or obstruct the field of view.
Innovation Solution
A new side view mirror system with a mirror frame and multiple cooperatively angled reflectors that provide a wider field of view without increasing the mirror's size, allowing for adjustable angles to eliminate blind spots and offer distortion-free unitary magnification, adaptable to various vehicle types including those with hand-adjustable or electrically-adjustable systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the mirror reflector is made wider to reduce blind spots, then the field of view is improved, but the mirror size increases causing aerodynamic drag and parking difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror system is divided into a primary flat reflector and a secondary convex reflector positioned at an angle. Each reflector segment serves a specific function: the primary provides the main field of view while the secondary captures blind spot areas, allowing the system to achieve wide coverage without increasing the primary mirror's size and thus avoiding increased aerodynamic drag
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary convex reflector is positioned at an angled orientation relative to the primary reflector, adding a dimensional aspect to the mirror system. This angular arrangement allows the secondary reflector to capture light from blind spot areas that the primary flat reflector cannot reach, expanding the field of view without increasing the footprint of the mirror assembly
2Area of stationary object
If a convex reflector is added to increase field of view, then blind spots are reduced, but the mirror assembly size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary convex reflector is positioned behind and utilizes the space of the primary flat reflector assembly. The secondary reflector is nested within the overall mirror structure, allowing it to contribute additional field of view coverage without significantly increasing the external dimensions or volume of the mirror assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary reflector is positioned at an angled orientation and uses vertical space behind the primary reflector. This angular and positional arrangement allows the system to expand the field of view in three-dimensional space without increasing the horizontal footprint or overall volume of the mirror assembly
3Reliability
If multiple reflectors are used to eliminate blind spots, then visibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror system is segmented into a primary flat reflector and a secondary convex reflector, each with a specific function. The primary reflector handles the main viewing area while the secondary reflector addresses blind spots. This functional segmentation improves visibility reliability without requiring complex control systems or multiple adjustable components
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror system incorporates adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the secondary reflector's angle and position to be modified. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to adapt to different driving conditions and driver preferences, improving visibility reliability while maintaining relatively simple mechanics through basic pivot and clamp mechanisms
4Reliability
If auxiliary reflectors are added to reduce blind spots, then safety is improved, but the mirror obstructs the field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary convex reflector is positioned and angled to specifically target blind spot areas that are not visible to the driver through the primary mirror. By localizing the function of the secondary reflector to only the blind spot regions, the system improves collision avoidance reliability without interfering with the driver's view of the main rearward area through the primary flat reflector
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 driver visibility to the sides and rear, reducing the likelihood of collisions by providing a comprehensive view of adjacent and approaching vehicles, while being easy to use and cost-effective for widespread adoption.
Implementation Method 1
Both of the exterior side view mirror assemblies typically comprise a reflective element, such as a mirror, that is adapted to provide a rearward field of view
Data Source
AI summary
A side view mirror apparatus for improving a driver's view of the area alongside and behind him or her while in the driver's seat of an automobile. The mirror apparatus has a frame with a side section that extends along a window post of the automobile and an upper section that extends along a window frame of the automobile. The mirror frame fits between the window and the window post and window frame. The mirror apparatus has a housing in the side section that defines an interior chamber. Multiple reflectors are movably mounted in the interior chamber to provide full view of the area on the side of the vehicle where the mirror apparatus is mounted. The side section mounts to an existing mounting position and the lowermost deflector is connected to the automobile's mirror control system. The system includes the mirror apparatus and relevant components of the automobile.