Patent ID: 7502156
Filing Date: 2009-03-10
Classification: B60R

Abstract:
1. A variable reflectance mirror element for use in a rearview mirror assembly having an electronic device positioned behind the mirror element for transmitting/receiving light of a first polarization, said mirror element comprising: a first substrate; a second substrate; a first electrode provided on a surface of said first substrate; a second electrode provided on a surface of said second substrate; an electro-optic medium provided between said first and second substrates that changes transmittance of the mirror element in response to a voltage applied across said first and second electrodes; and a polarized reflector provided on or near a surface of said second substrate for transmitting light of the first polarization and reflecting light of a second polarization opposite the first polarization, wherein said polarized reflector is positioned in front of the electronic device such that the electronic device transmits/receives light of the first polarization through said polarized reflector.