Patent Publication Number: US-6981789-B2

Title: Exterior mirror having an attachment member including an approach light

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/411,497 filed on Apr. 10, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,814,476, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/525,550 filed on Mar. 14, 2000, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,572,250 issued Jun. 3, 2003, which claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/124,461 filed Mar. 15, 1999, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated into the present application. 

   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Technical Description 
   The present invention relates to a mirror assembly in general and, more particularly, to an exterior mirror assembly for a vehicle including an approach light which illuminates an area in proximity to the vehicle. 
   2. Description of Related Art 
   Vehicle operators have become increasingly concerned about personal security in and around their vehicles. This concern heightens when a vehicle operator approaches a vehicle after it has been left unattended and the operator has been away from the vehicle. Approaching the vehicle often causes anxiety in the operator, as the operator realizes that an unattended vehicle provides a convenient hiding spot for potential perpetrators of assaults, robberies, and other personal violations. An unlit, unattended vehicle provides sufficient cover so that a would-be perpetrator could surprise the vehicle operator and other passengers as they approach the vehicle. For example, would-be perpetrators may hide along side, under, behind, or around the operator&#39;s vehicle. In parking lots, would-be perpetrators may seek additional cover not only from the operator&#39;s vehicle, but also from vehicles adjacent to the operator&#39;s vehicle. Thus, an increasing need exists to provide additional safety in proximity to vehicles and minimize cover provided to would-be perpetrators by vehicles, particularly at night. 
   It is well known that security lighting systems minimize the cover provided by darkness to would-be perpetrators. Many assaults, robberies, and other personal violations committed against vehicle operators approaching their car typically occur at night. It is also well known that providing suitable light eliminates many such incidents. Because it is not possible to sufficiently light every parking space of every parking lot, vehicle designers have endeavored to rely upon the vehicle to provide sufficient light to ward off would-be perpetrators. Many vehicles include keyless entry systems, which may or may not include additional alarm or security systems, which enable the vehicle operator to illuminate the interior of the vehicle when approaching the vehicle. However, illuminating the interior of the vehicle does not typically sufficiently illuminate the exterior of the vehicle, thereby enabling the operator to see would-be perpetrators. 
   Some systems have attempted to increase the lighting exterior to the vehicle in order to increase the safety margins provided to the operator and ward off would-be perpetrators. For example, vehicle designers have placed lights in mirror housings in order to illuminate the exterior of the vehicle. Examples of such systems may be found with reference to U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,371,659; 5,497,305; 4,497,306; 5,669,699; 5,669,704; 5,669,705; 5,823,654; and 5,863,116, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference for their technical discussion. These patents discuss various systems for placing a light in the housing of a mirror assembly. 
   The above-referenced patents, however, primarily discuss placing a light in the housing of the mirror assembly. Typical mirror assemblies include a sail which attaches to a forward portion of the front driver or passenger side doors. The sail rigidly attaches to a hinge or bracket. The hinge or bracket in turn attaches to a housing which provides support and protection for a reflective element, such as mirror glass. The housing typically pivots with respect to the bracket so that the mirror housing may fold inward to increase safety and selectively reduce the overall width of the vehicle. 
   While the designs presented in the above-referenced U.S. patents enable illumination of the vehicle exterior, these designs increase vehicle cost and reduce performance of the mirror assembly. In particular, locating the light module in the mirror housing necessarily places more mass of the mirror assembly outboard from the car. This increased outboard mass increases the moment exerted by the mirror housing. The increased moment correspondingly increases the vibration of the mirror, decreasing the performance due to the vibration. Further, placing a light outboard in the mirror housing requires that wires be routed through the hinge to power the light placed in the mirror housing. Routing wires through the hinge that connects the bracket to the housing presents many design challenges and further complicates the mirror assembly design. Such wiring again moves weight further outboard and also requires an additional length of wire to power the light module in the mirror housing, thereby increasing the cost of the system. Because the mirror housing pivots with respect to the supporting sail and bracket, folding the mirror inward varies the angle of illumination provided by the light module because the angle of the mirror housing often varies with respect to the horizontal as the mirror folds inward. Because the mirror housing experiences significant aerodynamic effects, the windstream passing by the mirror housing provides ample opportunity to coat the lens area of a light mounted in the mirror housing with road debris, salt, mud, dust, dirt and the like. 
   Placing a light module in the mirror housing significantly limits the ability to seal the light module and electrical wiring from the elements, including water, road salt, dirt, debris, and the like. Most mirror housings also include an area between the mirror and the mirror housing which is not sealed. This area allows water, road salt, dust, dirt, and other debris to enter the interior of the mirror housing and potentially damage the light housing and accompanying wiring. The exposed light module placed in the housing must be sealed from the exterior contaminants. Sealing the light module resultantly causes the light module temperature to increase. The temperature may be reduced by limiting the output of the light source. This reduced output typically reduces the illumination output by the light source. Finally, placing a light module in the housing requires allocation of valuable space that limits the structural supports or other components that may be placed in the housing. 
   Thus, there is a need to provide an exterior mirror assembly which illuminates the exterior of the vehicle and improves upon the above-discussed configuration in which a light is provided within and illuminates from the mirror housing. 
   This invention is also directed to an exterior rear view mirror assembly including housing and a reflective mirror supported by the housing and arranged in a rearwardly facing direction. A support member has an outboard end attached to the housing and an inboard end secured to an outer surface of a motor vehicle. The support member includes an opening. A sail attaches to the inboard end of the support member and secures the support member to the motor vehicle. A light transmitting lens is disposed in the opening of the support member. The lens enables light to project from an interior of the support member to an exterior of the support member to illuminate a predetermined area in proximity to the motor vehicle. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   This invention is directed to an exterior rear view mirror assembly including a housing and a reflective mirror supported by the housing and arranged in a rearwardly facing direction. A support member has an outboard end attached to the housing and an inboard end secured to an outer surface of a motor vehicle. The support member includes an opening. A light transmitting lens is disposed in the opening of the support member. The lens enables light to project from an interior of the support member to an exterior of the support member to illuminate a predetermined area in proximity to the motor vehicle. 
   This invention is also directed to an exterior rear view mirror system including a housing and a reflective mirror supported by the housing and arranged in a rearwardly facing direction. A support member has an outboard end attached to the housing and an inboard end secured to an outer surface of a motor vehicle. The support member includes an opening. A light transmitting lens is disposed in the opening of the support member. The lens enables light to project from an interior of the support member to an exterior of the support member to illuminate a predetermined area in proximity to the motor vehicle. A light assembly includes a housing having a light source therein. The light assembly housing is secured within the mirror housing, and the light source is operable to generate a light for projection through the lens. The light source is adjustable to project light through the support in a plurality of directions. A switch selectively activates the light source. A speed sensor generates a vehicle speed signal that varies in accordance with the speed of the vehicle. A timer receives the speed signal and receives an activation signal. The timer actuates the light source in accordance with the activation signal and the speed signal. 
   For a more complete understanding of the invention, its objects and advantages, reference should be made to the following specification and to the accompanying drawings. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The drawings, which form an integral part of the specification, are to be read in conjunction therewith, and like reference numerals are employed to designate identical components in the various views: 
       FIG. 1  is a rear perspective view of a mirror assembly arranged in accordance with the principles of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a front perspective view of the mirror assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3  is an elevational bottom view of the mirror assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of a mirror assembly showing an approach light mounted in both portions of the vehicle attachment member; 
       FIG. 5  is a plan view of a vehicle showing an exemplary light pattern of the mirror assembly of  FIGS. 1–4 ; 
       FIG. 6  is a left side view of the vehicle showing an exemplary light pattern of the mirror assembly of  FIGS. 1–4 ; 
       FIG. 7  is a right side view of the vehicle showing an exemplary light pattern of the mirror of  FIGS. 1–4  configured for attachment to the right side of a vehicle; 
       FIG. 8  is a front perspective view of a mirror assembly having an approach light in the sail portion of attachment member; 
       FIG. 9  is a side view of the mirror assembly of  FIG. 7 ; 
       FIG. 10  is an alternative configuration for disposing an approach light in the sail portion of the attachment member; 
       FIG. 11  is a front perspective view of an alternative configuration showing the approach light in both the support arm portion and the sail portion of the attachment member; 
       FIG. 12  is a vertical sectional view of the mirror bracket of  FIG. 1  showing an approach light module mounted in the projecting support arm portion of the attachment member; 
       FIG. 13  is a vertical sectional view of a mirror assembly having a light path for providing light to the support arm portion of the attachment member; 
       FIG. 14  is a vertical sectional view of a mirror assembly having a light path formed integral to the attachment member; 
       FIG. 15  is a perspective view of an approach light module mounted in the support arm portion of the attachment member; 
       FIG. 16  is a vertical sectional view of the approach light module of  FIG. 14 ; 
       FIG. 17  is a perspective view of an approach light module mounted in the support arm portion of the attachment member including a temperature sensor; 
       FIG. 18  is a partial vertical sectional view of the approach light module of  FIG. 16 ; 
       FIG. 19  is a front perspective view of a mirror assembly having an illuminable display area formed on the support arm portion of the attachment member; 
       FIG. 20  is a vertical sectional view of an approach light module mounted in the support arm portion of the attachment member in which the light output by the module may be directed by the vehicle operator; 
       FIG. 21  is a perspective bottom view of a mirror assembly showing a knockout formed in the support arm portion of the attachment member to enable optional installation of an approach light module; 
       FIG. 22  is a vertical sectional view of the support arm portion of the attachment member showing slidably recessed reflectors so that light output from the support arm portion may be reflected in a predetermined direction; 
       FIG. 23  is a vertical sectional view of the support arm portion of the attachment member showing a permanent reflector to minimize illumination from the support arm portion in a predetermined direction; 
       FIG. 24  is a vertical sectional view of the support arm portion of the attachment member showing an electronic module which may function as a transmitter or receiver of electromagnetic signals; 
       FIG. 25  is a block diagram of a possible control circuit for controlling operation of the approach light. 
       FIG. 26  is a circuit diagram for a control circuit for an approach light having a time-out function; 
       FIG. 27  is a control circuit for an approach light having a time-out function in which the timeout period varies in accordance with the vehicle speed; and 
       FIG. 28  is a front perspective view of a mirror assembly having a plurality of lights mounted in the attachment member. 
   

   DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   Referring now to the figures, and in particular  FIGS. 1–3 , a mirror assembly  10  includes a housing  12  which houses and supports a reflective element  14 , such as mirror glass. Mirror assembly  10  of the present invention will be described with respect to an exterior driver side rear view mirror which enables the vehicle operator to view an area beside and rearward with respect to the vehicle. Housing  12  connects to an attachment member  16  including a sail portion  18  and an integral, laterally projecting support arm or bracket portion  20 . The interconnection between housing  12  and attachment member  16  enables housing  12  to pivot with respect to the support arm portion  20 . Particularly, housing  12  pivots rearward and forward with respect to support arm portion  20 . Support arm portion  20  is integrally formed with sail portion  18  which attaches to a vehicle  40  as shown in  FIGS. 5–7 . Sail portion  18  attaches to vehicle  40  via threaded posts or other connectors and is typically a one or two-piece component, as is conventional in the art. Mirror assembly  10  typically attaches to a forward portion of either the driver or passenger side doors of vehicle  40 . As will also be described herein, a seal is typically interposed between sail portion  18  and vehicle  40  to isolate the interior of vehicle  40  from the exterior in the area where sail portion  18  connects to vehicle  40 . 
   With respect to a particular feature of the present invention, mirror assembly  10  includes an approach light  22  located in a bottom surface  24  of support arm portion  20 . Approach light  22  is typically disposed in an opening  26  of bottom surface  24 . Approach light  22  may be implemented using any of a number of light sources, including light modules, light emitting diodes (LEDs), light paths, light pipes, fiber optic cables, and the like which will be described further herein. 
     FIG. 4  depicts an alternative configuration for approach light  22  and opening  26  formed in bottom surface  24  of support arm portion  20 . In particular, opening  26  and approach light  22  are formed further inboard than approach light  22  of  FIGS. 1–3 . Approach light  22  extends from bottom surface  24  of support arm portion  20  into sail portion  18  and partially curves downward to follow the contour of the integral sail portion  18  and support arm portion  20  of attachment member  16 . 
   Approach light  22  typically illuminates an area in proximity to vehicle  40  as shown in  FIGS. 5–7 .  FIGS. 5–7  depict a vehicle  40  having a driver side  28  and a passenger side  30 . Driver side  28  includes a driver side mirror assembly  32 , and passenger side  30  includes a passenger side mirror assembly  34 . Each of driver side mirror assembly  32  and passenger side mirror assembly  34  are configured as described above with respect to mirror assembly  10 . Driver side mirror assembly and passenger side mirror assembly  34  include an approach light  22  which illuminates an area or zone generally adjacent the respective mirror assemblies  32 ,  34  in proximity to the respective sides  28 ,  30  of vehicle  40 . This area may optionally include illuminating at least a portion of the side of vehicle  40 . Specifically, approach light  22  of driver side mirror assembly  32  illuminates an area  36  generally beneath driver side mirror assembly  32 . Similarly, approach light  22  of passenger side mirror assembly  34  illuminates an area  38  generally beneath passenger side mirror assembly  34  in proximity to passenger side  30 . As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the direction and dispersion of approach light  22  may be varied in order to correspondingly vary the respective areas  36 ,  38  in order to meet various vehicle safety requirements and to provide suitable lighting. 
     FIGS. 8 and 9  depict an alternate embodiment for placing an approach light in the mirror assembly. Mirror assembly  50  includes an approach light  52  formed in the sail portion  54  of attachment member  48 . Mirror assembly  50  is configured similarly to mirror assembly  10  of  FIGS. 1–3  except approach light  22  is placed in sail portion  54  rather than support arm portion  56 . Mirror assembly  50  includes a mirror housing  58  for housing and supporting a reflective element  60 . Mirror housing  58  pivotally connects to support arm portion  56  as described above with respect to  FIGS. 1–3 . Support arm portion  56  in turn attaches to sail portion  54 . Sail portion  54  mounts to the vehicle  40  of  FIGS. 5–7 , as described above with respect to  FIGS. 1–3 . Approach light  52  may be implementing using any of a number of light sources, including light modules, LEDs light paths, and other light modules, many of which will be described further herein. Approach light  52  may be configured to illuminate areas adjacent vehicle  40  similarly to those areas as described above with respect to  FIGS. 5–7 . 
     FIG. 10  depicts an alternate configuration for placing an approach light in sail portion  54  of attachment member  48 . In particular, approach light  52  is formed to generally coincide with a forward section  49  of sail portion  54 . As shown in  FIG. 10 , approach light  52  generally consumes substantially all of the area forward of support arm portion  56  of attachment member  48 . Such a configuration provides a particularly decorative appearance for mirror assembly  50  and vehicle  40 . 
   Yet another alternative configuration for placing an approach light in attachment member  48  may be found with respect to  FIG. 11 . Approach light  52  is formed to generally coincide with a forward vertical wall  51  of support arm portion  56  and a vertical side wall  53  of sail portion  54 . Approach light  52  follows the contours of the integral intersection between support arm portion  56  and sail portion  54  of attachment member  48 . In this configuration, approach light  52  offers illumination properties as described above and also offers an improved, decorative appearance and improved aerodynamic shape. 
     FIG. 12  shows a sectional view of support arm portion  20  of  FIGS. 1–3  including approach light module  66 . Approach light module  66  forms an integral unit including a case, a reflector, and a lens, mounted in support arm portion  20 . A wiring harness  68  provides electrical power to approach light module  66  from electrical connections located within vehicle  40 . Harness  68  typically includes negative and positive electrical leads for providing electrical power to a light source formed in approach light module  66 . Approach light module  66  mounts in opening  26  of support arm portion  20  using snap connectors  64 . Support arm portion  20  engages snap connectors  64  to enable efficient and positive connection of approach light module  66  to support arm portion  20 . Approach light module  66  preferably includes a shape formed to coincide with the shape of opening  26  formed in support arm portion  20  to enable approach light module  66  to seal opening  26 . It will be understood by one skilled in the art that a similarly configured approach light module  66  may be installed into opening  62  of sail portion  54  so that approach light module  66  may be adapted for application in mirror assembly  50 . 
     FIG. 12  depicts one configuration for providing light to opening  26  of support arm portion  20 . An alternative configuration for providing light to opening  26  may be found with respect to  FIG. 13 .  FIG. 13  depicts a sectional view of support arm portion  20  of mirror assembly  70  including a light path or pipe  72  for transporting light from an inboard portion of vehicle  40  through opening  26 . Mirror assembly  70  is similarly configured to mirror assembly  10  of  FIGS. 1–3 . Particularly, mirror assembly  70  includes a housing  12  for housing and supporting a reflective element. Housing  12  pivotally connects to support arm portion  20  which in turn connects to sail portion  18 . Sail portion  18  of attachment member  16  attaches to vehicle  40  to mount the mirror assembly  70  to vehicle  40 . A seal  78  interposed between sail portion  18  and vehicle  40  seals the vehicle interior from the vehicle exterior to prevent water from entering vehicle  40  and to reduce wind noise. 
   Mirror assembly  70  includes a light path or pipe  72 . A first end  74  of light path or pipe  72  is located in proximity to opening  26  of support arm portion  20 . From first end  74 , light path or pipe  72  traverses support arm portion  20  and sail portion  18  to a second end  76  located inboard of sail portion  18 . Second end  76  also traverses seal  78  and terminates inboard of seal  78 . Second end  76  of light path or pipe  72  includes a socket  80  which receives a connector  82 . Connector  82  houses a light source  84  on one end and includes electrical leads  86  for providing electrical power to light source  84 . Socket  80  and connector  82  are preferably molded from a plastic material. 
   Light path or light pipe  72  may assume any of a number of structures including clear, molded plastic, a molded structure lined with reflective material, or a molded material with internal metalizing.  FIG. 13  provides a particular advantage of moving light source  84  and electrical connector  82  inboard of seal  78 , thereby reducing exposure of light source  84  and connector  82  to water, road salt, dirt, debris, and other elements exterior to the vehicle. Further, a shorter electrical harness provides electrical power to the light source, thereby reducing costs. One skilled in the art will recognize that a similar configuration provides light to opening  62  of mirror assembly  50  of  FIG. 8 . The light source could also be placed in a centralized location within the vehicle, and a distributed lighting system could supply light from the light source to various locations. 
   A particularly advantageous feature of the configuration of  FIG. 13  is that by placing light source  84  inboard, light source  84  need not be sealed within an enclosure. Consequently, light source  84  may be vented to the interior of the vehicle to provide significantly greater cooling than a sealed light source enclosure as would necessarily be included in approach lights formed in housing  12 . Venting light source  84  towards the interior of the vehicle enables installation of a bulb that generates greater heat, which typically implies that the light source outputs brighter light. This brighter light translates into improved lighting output from approach light  22  formed in opening  26 . Alternatively, one skilled in the art will recognize that in addition to the light path or light pipe  72  described herein, candidate light sources include light bulbs, light emitting diodes (LED&#39;s) fiber optic light pipes, reflective light pipes, fiber optic cables, and conventional light bulbs. Conventional light bulbs include bulbs having electrical contacts at one end, bulbs having electrical contacts at either end, and other combined configurations for such bulbs. The alternatives described herein with respect to venting the light source, as compared to sealing the light source, apply to each of the embodiments described herein. 
     FIG. 14  shows a portion of a mirror assembly  90  configured similarly to mirror assembly  70  of  FIG. 13 . Mirror assembly  90  differs from mirror assembly  70  in that mirror assembly  90  includes a light pipe or light path which is integrally molded with attachment member  16  to provide both light transmission properties and structural support for mirror assembly  90 . The light pipe or light path  92  includes a first end  94  terminating in proximity to opening  26 . Light pipe or path  90  traverses support arm portion  20  and sail portion  18  and terminates at a second end  96 . As shown, light path or pipe  92  is integrally molded as part of attachment member  16 . Second end  96  of light pipe  92  extends inboard of seal  98 . This provides the benefits as described above of moving the light source and electrical connections inboard. Second end  96  of light pipe  92  is preferably molded to provide a receptacle for a connector  100 , such as a bayonet connector, which supports light source  102 . As discussed above, light path  92  integrally forms part of attachment member  16 . Light path  92  preferably is formed as a molded portion, which may be clear or may be lined with metalizing or reflective foil. Light path  92  may be implemented using fiber optic light pipes, reflective light pipes, and fiber optic cables. One skilled in the art will recognize that a similar configuration provides light to opening  62  of mirror assembly  50 . 
     FIGS. 15 and 16  show an approach light module as may be used in the above described embodiments. Approach light module  110  includes a case or shell  112 . Case  112  encloses a reflector  114  formed to fit within case  112 . Reflector  114  includes a socket  108 , which may be threaded, for receiving a connector  118 , such as a bayonet connector, which supports and provides power to a light source  120 . When electrical power is applied to light source  120 , light source  120  outputs light which is reflected by reflector  114  and exits approach light module  110  through lens  122 . Lens  122  may include a plurality of prisms  106  in order to disperse light output by light source  120  in any of a number of various, predetermined directions. An electrical wiring harness  124  provides electrical power to light source  120  in order to activate light source  120 . Case  112 , lens  122 , and socket  108  preferably cooperate to seal approach light module  110  from outside elements. Approach light module  110  mounts within opening  26  of mirror assembly  10  using tabs  126  formed on an inboard section  128  and tabs  130  formed on an outboard section  132  of approach light module  110 . Tabs  126  and  130  cooperate with the edge of opening  26  or corresponding catches formed in opening  26  of support arm portion  20 . 
   In an alternative configuration, approach light module  110  receives a connector for supporting light source  120 . The side of connector opposite light source  120  supports a male portion of an electrical socket. A female connector portion of an electrical socket formed integrally with support arm portion  20  receives the male portion of the electrical socket formed in connector  118 . The female portion of the socket may be formed integral with a bayonet connector and mounted in support arm portion  20 . In this manner, the inboard electrical connection provides a retaining force for approach light module  110  in support arm portion  20 . 
     FIGS. 17 and 18  depict an alternate embodiment of an approach light module  140 . Approach light module  140  includes a temperature sensor  142 . Approach light module  140  is substantially as described above with respect to approach light module  110 . Temperature sensor  142  mounts to a tang  144  formed external to and integral with case  112 . Temperature sensor  142  preferably comprises a thermister which has a resistance that varies in accordance with ambient temperature. A wiring harness  146  provides electrical connections to temperature sensor  142 . The resistance through temperature sensor  142  is monitored by an electrical circuit which generates an output in accordance with the temperature sensed by temperature sensor  142 . In this manner, approach light module  140  provides a dual function of illuminating the area in proximity to the mirror and also provides a convenient, external position for temperature sensor  142 . 
     FIG. 19  depicts yet another embodiment of the present invention, namely, placing translucent advertising indicia or the like on support arm portion  20  and illuminating such indicia using reflected or directed light from approach light  22 . Indicia  152  may include lettering  154 . Indicia  152  preferably enables transmission of light therethrough in order to illuminate indicia  152 . Illuminating light may be provided using the light paths or pipes as described above routed from a light source as described above to an interior portion of indicia  152  to generate illumination generally outward from support arm portion  20 . Such light paths or pipes have been described above with respect to  FIGS. 13 and 14 . Alternatively, a light path may be routed from any of the approach light modules described above internally to indicia  152  in order to illuminate indicia  152 . Indicia  152  may include colored lettering in order to draw additional attention to the advertising indicia. 
     FIG. 20  depicts yet another feature of the present invention. It may be desirable to provide an adjustable approach light module  160  mounted in opening  26  of support arm portion  20 . In particular, adjustable approach light module  160  includes a reflector  162  mounted within a case or shell  164 . Reflector  162  supports a light source  166  mounted within an opening  168  using a connector  170 , such as a bayonet connector. Reflector  162  pivots within case  164  in order to reflect light from light source  166  in a predetermined direction. In a preferred embodiment, linkage  172  attaches to reflector  162  and displaces reflector  162  in accordance with input from a control member  174  mounted inboard on the vehicle for adjustment by the vehicle operator. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other adjustment means may be utilized to direct illumination from light source  166 . Adjustable approach light module  160  thus enables directionalization of the light output from approach light module  160  in order to illuminate predetermined areas either rearward, forward, or outboard of a nominal zone of illumination provided by adjustable approach light module  160 . 
   In addition to providing an approach light as described with respect to  FIG. 20 , one skilled in the art will recognize that other configurations for directing light from approach light  22  and approach light  52  may be implemented. In particular, in an approach light module such as described with respect to  FIGS. 15 and 16 , the approach light module may be detachable from support arm portion  20  or sail portion  54  so that the operator may use the approach light module as a hand held light, such as a flashlight. One skilled in the art will recognize that such a configuration may be implemented by lengthening a wire harness that supplies power to the approach light module. The lengthened wire harness may be extended from support arm portion  20  and sail portion  54  in order to provide such a feature. 
   In some situations, vehicle manufacturers may prefer not to offer an approach light module as a factory installed option on the vehicle. Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide flexibility in the mirror assembly for installing an approach light as an aftermarket option.  FIG. 21  depicts mirror assembly  10  configured for installation of approach light  22  as an aftermarket option. When offering mirror assembly  10  as an aftermarket option, a knockout or cover  180  sealably covers opening  26  yet enables convenient removal for installation of approach light  22 . Knockout  180  includes tabs  182  which engage opening  26 . The embodiment of the knockout  180  described herein may be configured for application on any of the approach light configurations described above. 
   As an alternative, or in addition to, implementation of an adjustable approach light module  160  and similar configurations, as described above, the approach light may remain fixed, and illumination from the approach light module may be directed through use of adjustable reflectors. With particular reference to  FIG. 22 , approach light  22  is shown in attachment member  16 . An adjustable reflector  188  is preferably slidably mounted forward of approach light  22 , and an adjustable reflector  190  is preferably slidably mounted rearward of approach light  22 . Reflector  188  includes a rearward reflective surface  192 , and reflector  190  includes a forward reflective surface  194 . Each reflector  188 ,  190  may be displaced to a plurality of positions from a fully recessed position shown in solid lines to a fully extended position shown in phantom. Each reflector  188 ,  190  preferably includes a plurality of tabs or stops  200  which provide variable detent positions intermediate to and including recessed position  196  and extended position  198 . By variably positioning reflectors  188  and  190 , light output by approach light  22  may be reflected in a respective rearward or forward direction. This provides additional light illuminating the forward or rearward portions of the vehicle, as may be useful for changing a tire or illuminating particular areas in various parking facilities. It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the reflectors described herein with respect to  FIG. 22  may be implemented in any of the approach light configurations described herein. 
   In addition to positionable reflectors  188 ,  190 , it may be desirable to direct illumination from approach light  22  in a predetermined direction in particular situations. Such a requirement may exist to meet vehicle safety standards of particular countries. Accordingly,  FIG. 23  depicts a mirror assembly  10  including an approach light  22  having a louver  206  including a reflective surface  208  mounted in proximity to approach light  22 . Light output by approach light  22  reflects off of reflective surface  208  in a predetermined direction, substantially restricting approach light from illuminating a direction beyond louver  206 . Louver  206  may be integrally molded with attachment member  16  or other components of mirror assembly  10 . Alternatively, louver  206  may be an individual component having tabs or tangs (not shown) corresponding to and inserted into mounting holes  210  formed in support arm portion  20 , sail portion  18 , or other suitable mirror assembly component. Thus, by providing mounting holes  210  around approach light  22 , louver  206  may be selectively installed in order to meet safety standards of a particular country where a vehicle is most likely to be sold. 
   In addition to the many configurations described herein, mirror assembly  10  provides a convenient, outboard location for mounting components which operate most efficiently when placed outboard of the vehicle. Further, because a wiring harness must be routed to supply electrical power to mirror assembly  10 , mirror assembly  10  may also be used to house other electronic components, particularly those which function best outboard of the vehicle.  FIG. 24  depicts a sectional view of mirror assembly  10  including an approach light  22  and also including a transceiver  220 . Transceiver  220  may transmit and/or receive electromagnetic signal for any of the number of remote systems, including infrared remote (IR) systems, global positioning systems (GPS), a centralized vehicle alert system, and the like. Transceiver  220  interconnects to a control module, described herein, via a wiring harness. The wiring harness may be integrally formed with wiring for powering approach light  22 . 
     FIG. 25  depicts a control circuit for activating approach light  22 . Approach light  22  receives input from an approach light controller  224 . Approach light controller  224  may be integral with a body or other vehicle controller or may operate independently. Approach light controller receives input signals provided on vehicle data bus  226 . Alternatively, approach light controller may receive signals individually from any of a number of inputs, rather than detecting signals placed on vehicle data bus  226 . 
   Any of a number of components can place signals on vehicle data bus. For example, receiver  228  receives input signals, such as IR signals, from transmitter  230  such as a key FOB. When receiving a signal from transmitter  230 , receiver  228  outputs a signal on vehicle data bus  226 . Any of a number of components may place information on vehicle data bus  226  for evaluation by approach light controller  224 . For example, the state of the vehicle door lock  232  generates one or more signals on vehicle data bus  226  when the doors are in either of a locked or unlocked state. Similarly, the state of interior lights  234 , hazard lights  236 , and reverse lights  238  each generates a separate signal output on vehicle data bus  226 . The position of housing  12  with respect to support arm portion  20  activates a sensor  240  which generates a signal on vehicle data bus  226 . The position of the hood or trunk activates a sensor  242  which generates at least one signal output on vehicle data bus  226 . An approach light switch  244  for manual activation of approach light  22  also outputs a signal on vehicle data bus  226 . The position of gear selector  246  also generates a signal on vehicle data bus  226 . A timer  248  may be activated in accordance with a predetermined event and outputs a signal on vehicle data bus  226  after a predetermined, elapsed time. A proximity sensor  250  generates a signal on vehicle data bus  226  in accordance with proximity of individuals to the vehicle. Further, an alarm system  252  in any of a number of predetermined states generates at least one output signal on vehicle data bus  226 . The above-described signals are output on vehicle data bus  226  and input to approach light controller  224 . Approach light controller may have any of a number of modes for determining activation of approach light  22  in accordance with the above-described signals. 
   Two exemplary modes of operation for the circuit of  FIG. 25  will be described. In a first mode of operation, actuation of one or more vehicle door locks  232  causes corresponding actuation of approach light  22 . Such actuation occurs regardless of whether the vehicle is in motion. Particularly, during operation of the vehicle, approach light  22  may be activated using approach light switch  244 . Such activation may occur in response to the operator desiring to view street signs, mailboxes, and individuals approaching the vehicle. 
     FIG. 26  depicts a control circuit for a particular implementation for activating approach light  22  of the present invention. Control circuit  256  represents a simplified embodiment of the circuit of  FIG. 25 . Control circuit  256  includes a transmitter  258 , such as a key FOB which outputs a signal through antenna  260 . Antenna  260  outputs an electromagnetic signal received by antenna  262  and input to receiver  238 . Receiver  264  electronically communicates with timer  266 . Upon receipt of an activation signal from transmitter  258 , receiver  264  supplies an activation signal to timer  266 . Upon receipt of the activation signal, timer  266  outputs an electrical signal to activate approach light  22 . Timer  266  maintains activation of approach light  22  for a predetermined time period. 
   Following the predetermined time period, timer  266  deactivates approach light  22  by removing the electrical energy supplied to approach light  22 . The predetermined time period for which timer  266  activates approach light  22  may vary in accordance with specific design considerations. Preferably, the predetermined time period is of a duration sufficient so that an operator approaching the car can activate approach light  22  and so that approach light  22  remains activated so that the operator can enter the vehicle and lock the vehicle to prevent outside intrusion. This time period may be extended to enable the operator additional time to start the vehicle. 
     FIG. 27  depicts a control circuit  270  for activating approach light  22 . Control circuit  270  operates similarly as control circuit  256  described above with respect to  FIG. 26 . Control circuit  270 , however, utilizes a vehicle speed signal to vary the timeout period for approach light  22 . As described above, control circuit  270  includes a transmitter  258  which outputs an electromagnetic signal through antenna  260 . Antenna  262  detects the electromagnetic signal output by antenna  260  and provides an input signal to receiver  264 . Upon receipt of the input signal, receiver  264  sends an activation signal to timer  266 . Timer  266  also receives a speed signal from input line  272 . A controller  274 , such as a vehicle controller, an engine controller, a transmission controller, or the like, outputs a speed signal on input line  272  in accordance with electrical signal received from speed sensor  276 . The speed signal on input line  272  varies in accordance with the vehicle speed. 
   Timer  266  receives the speed signal from controller  248  and the activation signal from receiver  264 . Timer  266  activates approach light  22  in accordance with the activation signal and speed signal. For example, if timer  266  receives an activation signal and the speed signal indicates that the vehicle moves at less than a predetermined speed, timer  266  supplies electrical power to approach light  22  for a predetermined time period. Such time period may be as described above with respect to  FIG. 26 . If timer  266  detects that the speed signal on input line  272  indicates a vehicle speed above the predetermined threshold, timer  266  supplies power to approach light  22  for a predetermined time period much shorter than the predetermined time period when the vehicle is less than the threshold. For example, for a vehicle speed less than 10 miles per hour (MPH), timer  266  may activate approach light  22  for, by way of example, 30 seconds. When timer  266  detects an activation signal and determines that the vehicle speed exceeds, for example, 30 MPH, timer  266  may activate approach light  22  for, by way of example, 1 or 2 seconds.  FIG. 27  thus discloses a control circuit  270  having a variable timeout function for controlling approach light  22 . The variable timeout function provides safer operation of approach light  22  by limiting the activation period for approach light  22  when the vehicle speed exceeds a predetermined threshold. 
     FIG. 28  depicts yet another embodiment of a mirror assembly  280 . Mirror assembly  280  of  FIG. 28  includes a plurality of lights mounted in vehicle attachment member  16 . Mirror assembly  280  is configured similarly to mirror assembly  10  if  FIGS. 1–3 . Mirror assembly  280  includes a housing  12  for supporting and housing a reflective element  14 . Housing  12  attaches to vehicle  40  via a vehicle attachment member  16 . Vehicle attachment member includes sail portion  18  and support arm portion  20 , all of which have been described herein. Of particular interest,  FIG. 28  includes a plurality of lights mounted in vehicle attachment member  16 . In this embodiment the lights are mounted in sail portion  18 . The plurality of lights comprises three lights. 
   A turning light  282  provides illumination while turning. Turning light  282  preferably operates in conjunction with the vehicle turn indicators to illuminate the direction in which the vehicle operator intends to turn or the direction in which the operator desires to change lanes. Turning light  282  preferably provides either white or amber illumination in accordance with various designs and safety regulation considerations. 
   A center light  284  provides single or dual purpose lighting and is disposed rearward of turning light  282 . Center light  282  preferably includes a low trajectory light activated by a remote security system. Activation of a security system, such as through an IR transmitter or other electromagnetic transmitter as in a key FOB, activates low trajectory lamp of center light  284 . Low trajectory light preferably illuminates areas beneath mirror assembly  280  and adjacent vehicle  40 . Center light  284  also preferably includes a high trajectory light which illuminates a zone perpendicular to vehicle  40 . Preferably, the vehicle operator activates the high trajectory beam from within or remotely from the vehicle. The high trajectory beam preferably illuminates a zone which facilitates reading mail boxes, street addresses, and street signs. 
   A rear light  286  is disposed rearward of center light  284 . Rear light  286  preferably illuminates a zone generally rearward of mirror assembly  10 . Rear light  286  preferably is activated directly by the driver or by the vehicle security system in response to an individual approaching the side window. Rear light  286  thus preferably, primarily illuminates a zone coincident with and slightly above the front and rear side windows to provide maximum illumination of the face of an individual approaching the vehicle. 
   The embodiments of the mirror assembly described herein provide several beneficial features. Removing the light from the housing frees up additional space in the housing so that additional support structures and components can be included in the housing. The above-described invention provides substantial flexibility in determining the desired placement of the approach light and its light source within the attachment member. Relocating the light source from the housing further inboard to the attachment member reduces the mass in the mirror housing, thereby improving the performance of the mirror by reducing vibration of the reflective element. Further, placing the approach light further inboard in the attachment reduces the length of the wiring harness for powering the approach light, thereby further reducing weight and cost of the vehicle. The above-described positions of the approach light, whether support arm portion-mounted or sail portion-mounted also provide improved serviceability. Further yet, locating the approach light in the attachment member enables the approach light to maintain the light pattern regardless of the position of the mirror housing, whether folded inboard or unfolded outboard. This feature becomes particularly relevant when maneuvering in close quarters when illuminating the side areas of the vehicle is important and the housing may be folded inboard. Further yet, placement of the lens in the attachment member reduces the airflow over the lens, thereby providing a cleaner lens during operation. The above-described invention also provides a better seal for the approach light, thereby limiting dirt, debris, water, and road salt which could inhibit performance of the approach light. Further, by providing reflectors for better directing illumination from the approach light either forward or rearward, additional portions of the vehicle may be illuminated in order to facilitate, for example, changing tires at night on the side of the road. The above-described approach light also provides additional features of facilitating vehicle identification in a parking lot and also optionally provides an alarm beacon indicating to the approaching operator that security of the vehicle may have been comprised. 
   While specific embodiments have been shown and described in detail to illustrate the principles of the present invention, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles. For example, one skilled in the art will readily recognize from such discussion and from the accompanying drawings and claims that various changes, modifications and variations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims.