Multiple mode rear view mirrors
OwnerJeanette Epps, Vijitha Senaka Kiridenainventors
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An automotive rear view mirror assembly 7 is provided. The mirror assembly 7 has a flexible mirror surface 10. The mirror surface 10 has a first state of curvature about a first axis 14. In the first state of curvature, the mirror surface 10 is flat. The mirror surface 10 has a second state of curvature that is typically convex. To move the mirror surface between the first and second states of curvature, there is provided an actuator 18. The actuator may be mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically or electrically actuated.
Claims25
An automotive rear view mirror comprising:
- a flexible mirror surface having at least a first state of curvature and a second state of curvature differing from said first state of curvature;
- and
- an actuator to move said mirror surface between said first and second states of curvature.
An automotive vehicle rear view mirror assembly comprising:
- a flexible mirror surface provided by a polymeric substrate which is coated with a reflective material, said mirror surface having a first planar mode and a second convex mode;
- a piezoelectric actuator connected with said substrate to move said mirror surface between said modes;
- and
- a voltage source causing said actuator to move between said first and second modes.
A method of adjusting a rear view mirror for an automotive vehicle comprising:
- providing a flexible mirror surface having at least a first state of curvature and a second state of curvature differing from said first state of curvature;
- and
- moving said mirror surface between said first and second states of curvature.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.