Vehicle Side View Mirror Assembly with Automatic Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing side view mirrors on vehicles often lead to blind spots due to improper positioning, which can result in reduced visibility for drivers, increasing the risk of accidents and commute inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A side view mirror assembly with adjustable mounting and integrated sensors that automatically adjust the mirror angle based on the driver's position, using markings on the reflective surface and software for precise positioning to minimize blind spots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If side view mirrors are manually adjusted by drivers, then drivers can position mirrors according to their comfort, but improper positioning creates blind spots and reduces visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to automatically detect the driver's position and automatically adjusts the mirror angles to the optimal position, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while ensuring proper positioning. The mirror assembly serves itself by using the driver's presence information to self-adjust to the correct configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect driver position and provide feedback to the control system, which then adjusts the mirror angles accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that the mirrors are always positioned optimally based on the actual driver position, preventing blind spots.
2Reliability
If side view mirrors are positioned to maximize field of view, then visibility improves, but the complexity of determining proper positioning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically calculates and implements the optimal mirror positioning based on sensor data about driver position. The system performs the complex task of determining proper mirror angles without requiring driver knowledge or manual intervention, thereby reducing the perceived complexity for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated electromechanical system that uses sensors and control algorithms to determine and execute the optimal mirror positioning, substituting complex manual positioning tasks with automated electronic control.
3Reliability
If automatic sensor-based adjustment is implemented, then optimal mirror positioning is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system serves multiple functions: it detects driver presence, determines driver position, and provides input for mirror adjustment. By making the sensor system multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while achieving accurate positioning.
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 ensures optimal mirror positioning, reducing blind spots and enhancing the driver's field of view, thereby improving safety and reducing the risk of accidents and commute times.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor and a programmable logic controller (processor) that automatically position the side view mirror based upon a position of a head and/or eyes of the driver
Data Source
AI summary
A side view mirror assembly for use by an operator of an vehicle including a mirror housing mounted to an outer surface of the vehicle, a side view mirror including a reflective surface, the side view mirror being mounted in the mirror housing so that the side view mirror reflects items disposed rearwardly of the vehicle, wherein the side view mirror is configured for adjustment with respect to the mirror housing so that an angle of the mirror with respect to the mirror housing is selectively changeable, and a first marking that is visible on the reflective surface of the side view mirror so that a reflection of a portion of the vehicle falls within a first portion of the reflective surface that is defined by the first marking.