Switchable Rear View Mirror Pane for Camera and Mirror Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Many drivers are hesitant to adopt virtual rear view mirrors due to unfamiliarity with new technologies and prefer classic rear view mirrors, which can lead to skepticism and a preference for traditional systems.
Innovation Solution
A rear view mirror arrangement that can switch between camera mode and mirror mode, allowing the pane to change transparency and mirroring behavior, enabling the driver to choose between displaying camera images on a display unit or viewing a mirror image directly through the pane, with automatic mode switching in case of component failure to maintain visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a virtual rear view mirror with camera and display is used, then modernization and new functionality are achieved, but driver acceptance and ease of operation deteriorate due to unfamiliarity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the pane switchable between transparent and reflective states. This dynamic transformation allows the system to adapt its appearance and function based on driver preference, transitioning from a static camera-based display to a dynamic system that can mimic traditional mirror behavior, thereby improving driver acceptance while maintaining modern functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing the rear view mirror arrangement to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a traditional reflective mirror, as a transparent camera-based display, or switch between these modes. This multi-functionality addresses driver skepticism by providing both familiar and modern operational modes within a single system
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pane is made transparent for camera recording, then camera mode operation is enabled, but mirror image visibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pane's optical properties are made dynamic through switchability between transparent and reflective states. When in transparent state, the pane allows camera recording; when switched to reflective state, it provides mirror image visibility. This dynamic transformation resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to optimize for either camera operation or mirror visibility depending on the selected mode
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the pane by switching between transparent and reflective states. This parameter change enables the system to adjust its light transmission and reflection properties according to the desired operating mode, allowing full transparency for camera recording or full reflectivity for mirror imaging without compromise
3Illumination intensity
If the pane is made reflective for mirror mode, then mirror image visibility is improved, but camera recording capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic switching of the pane's optical state to resolve this contradiction. The pane can be switched to a reflective state when mirror mode is desired for optimal visibility, and to a transparent state when camera recording is needed. This dynamic adaptability ensures that camera recording capability is not permanently compromised by the reflective property
Solution Approach 2:
The rear view mirror arrangement achieves universality by incorporating both reflective and transparent operational modes. The system can function as a traditional reflective mirror when needed, while also maintaining camera recording capability through the transparent state, thus providing both functions within a single multi-functional device
4Reliability
If automatic mode switching on failure is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies the self-service principle through automatic failure detection and mode switching. The control unit autonomously monitors the operational status of the camera and display components, and automatically switches to the alternative mode (mirror mode or camera mode) when a failure is detected, without requiring driver intervention. This self-service capability improves reliability by ensuring continuous visibility while managing complexity through automated rather than manual control mechanisms
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
Enables seamless operation in either camera or mirror mode, allowing drivers to choose their preferred viewing method and ensuring continuous visibility of the surroundings even if the camera or display fails, reducing the need for immediate professional intervention.
Implementation Method 1
the pane, the transparency and mirroring behavior of which can be changed
Implementation Method 2
in the mirror mode a mirror image of the surroundings is visible to the driver in the reflecting pane
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a rear view mirror arrangement for a motor vehicle. The rear view mirror arrangement includes an image capture unit. The image capture unit includes a housing and a camera disposed in the housing. The housing has a pane that switches between a transparent state and a reflecting state. The rear view mirror arrangement further includes a display unit for displaying an image captured by the camera. The rear view mirror arrangement operates under a camera mode and a mirror mode. When the rear view mirror arrangement is set in the camera mode, the pane is set in the transparent state so that the camera is configured to capture an image of the surroundings of the motor vehicle. When the rear view mirror arrangement is set in the mirror mode, the pane is set in the reflective state.