Patent Description:
Vehicles are required to have a rear view system that is operable to provide a driver of the vehicle a rearward field of view. The rear view system typically includes one or more components that are required to be actuated relative to the vehicle body along a first axis, such components may include mirrors or cameras. As an example, the actuation of components along a first axis may provide the driver of the vehicle the ability to fine tune the rearward field of view provided by the rear view system.

Further, some rear view systems provide actuation of one or more components along a second axis, such components may include mirrors or cameras. As an example, the actuation of components along a secondary axis allows the components to be stored closer to the vehicle body in certain conditions. Generally, actuation of components in a rear view system along a secondary axis is achieved using a secondary actuator.

Electromechanical actuators are typically used to rotate the components relative to the vehicle body. However, existing electromechanical actuators may be noisy, heavy, and large in size and often require high strength metallic parts (e.g., gearing) due to high shock loads acting on a gear train during impacts, thereby making the actuators heavier and costlier.

The use of a single actuator to provide adjustment of components along multiple axes allows for adjustment along a second axis which can reduce rear view system design cost and complexity.

<CIT> describes an exterior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle according to the preamble of claim <NUM>, said exterior rearview mirror assembly comprising: a mounting portion mounted to a side of a vehicle; a mirror head portion adjustably mounted at said mounting portion; a reflective element fixedly included at said mirror head portion and moving in tandem with said mirror head portion; and an actuator operable to impart pivotal movement of said mirror head portion relative to said mounting portion and about a generally horizontal pivot axis and a generally vertical pivot axis to pivotally adjust said mirror head portion and said reflective element relative to the side of the vehicle to which said mounting portion is mounted.

<CIT> refers to an exterior rearview mirror assembly configured for mounting at an exterior portion of a vehicle, said exterior rearview mirror assembly comprising: a mounting arm having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end of said mounting arm is configured for attachment at an exterior portion of a vehicle equipped with said exterior rearview mirror assembly; a mirror head disposed at said second end of said mounting arm and movable relative to said mounting arm; wherein said mirror head comprises a mirror casing and a mirror reflective element; an electrically-operable actuator, wherein, with said first end of said mounting arm attached at the exterior portion of the equipped vehicle, said actuator, when electrically operated, moves said mirror head relative to said mounting arm; wherein, when said actuator is electrically operated to move said mirror head relative to said mounting arm, said mirror reflective element and said mirror casing both move in tandem with movement of said mirror head relative to said mounting arm; and wherein, with said first end of said mounting arm attached at the exterior portion of the equipped vehicle, said actuator, when electrically operated, moves said mirror head relative to said mounting arm to vertically and horizontally adjust a rearward field of view of a driver of the equipped vehicle who is viewing said mirror reflective element.

<CIT> teaches an exterior rearview mirror assembly configured for mounting at an exterior side portion of a vehicle, said exterior rearview mirror assembly comprising: a mirror head comprising a mirror casing and a mirror reflective element;
an electrically-operated actuator; wherein said mirror head is attached at said electrically-operated actuator at one end of a mounting arm of said exterior rearview mirror assembly; wherein a mounting portion configured for attachment of said exterior rearview mirror assembly at an exterior side portion of a vehicle equipped with said exterior rearview mirror assembly is disposed at another end of said mounting arm that is, with said mounting portion attached at the exterior side portion of the equipped vehicle, at or near the exterior side portion of the equipped vehicle; and wherein, with said mounting portion attached at the exterior side portion of the equipped vehicle, said electrically-operated actuator is electrically operable to move said mirror reflective element and said mirror casing together in tandem to vertically and horizontally adjust a field of view of a driver of the equipped vehicle who is viewing said mirror reflective element.

It is the object of the present disclosure to further develop the known rear view device for a vehicle in order to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.

This object is achieved by the features of the characterizing part of claim <NUM>.

Embodiments of the rear view device of the present disclosure are described in the sub-claims <NUM> to <NUM>.

The object is also achieved by a vehicle with at least one rear view device according to this disclosure.

Generally, the present disclosure provides a rear view device for a vehicle comprising a mirror base that provides a first attachment end for attachment to the side of a vehicle and a second attachment end for an actuator. The rear view device additionally comprises a mirror head comprising an actuator moving the entire mirror head. For that purpose, a hinge of the actuator is adapted to be engaged by a complementary hinge of the case frame. In addition or as alternative, a tilt axle of the actuator is adapted to be fixedly attached to the case lower and/or the case frame. Still further, the actuator is associated with a shroud for attachment of the actuator such that the mirror head creates a seal. An additional seal is created by the attachment of the mirror head to the mirror base.

It should be noted that the features set out individually in the following description can be combined with each other in any technically advantageous manner and set out other forms of the present disclosure. It should be understood, however, that the disclosure is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate an implementation of system, apparatuses, and methods consistent with the present description and, together with the description, serve to explain advantages and principles consistent with the disclosure. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labelled with the same number. The description further characterizes and specifies the present disclosure in particular in connection with the Figures.

<FIG> illustrates a vehicle <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

As shown in <FIG>, the vehicle <NUM> includes a rear view device <NUM>, <NUM> on each of its sides. Although the vehicle <NUM> is illustrated as a passenger car, the vehicle <NUM> may be any other type of vehicle, non-limiting examples of the vehicle <NUM> include a truck, off-road vehicle, bus, motorcycle, aircraft, tram, locomotive, or heavy-duty vehicle.

In <FIG>, the rear view mirror devices s <NUM>, <NUM> are illustrated as side view mirrors. In alternative variations, the rear view devices <NUM>, <NUM> may be implemented as camera systems. The rear view devices <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged on the vehicle <NUM> such that they may be adjusted to provide a view rearward of the vehicle to a driver.

The operation of the rear view devices <NUM>, <NUM> will now be further described with additional reference to <FIG>. While the following description will refer to the rear view device <NUM>, it will be appreciated that the rear view device <NUM> has an analogue structure.

<FIG> show a top down view of the rear view device <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

As shown in <FIG> the rear view device <NUM> includes an axis <NUM>, a mirror base <NUM>, and a mirror head <NUM>. In <FIG>, the rear view device <NUM> can be seen in a top down view with the mirror head <NUM> in the drive position. When actuated in a first direction relative to the axis <NUM> as shown by line <NUM>, movement is imparted to the mirror head <NUM> to rotate it around the axis <NUM> to a stored position as shown in <FIG>. Additionally, when actuated in a second direction relative to the axis <NUM> as shown by line <NUM>, movement can be imparted to the mirror head <NUM> when in the stored position shown in <FIG> to rotate it back to the drive position shown in <FIG>.

The actuation of the mirror head <NUM> about the axis <NUM> can be done from any position to move the mirror head <NUM> to any other position about the axis <NUM>. For example, the mirror head <NUM> may start in the stored position as shown in <FIG> and then be actuated in the second direction about the axis <NUM> to move the mirror head <NUM> to the drive position. The mirror head <NUM> may be adjusted to any position between the drive position shown in <FIG> and the stored position shown in <FIG>.

Additionally, when the mirror head <NUM> is in the drive position as shown in <FIG>, actuation can be performed such that it moves the mirror head <NUM> to adjust the rearward field of view of the driver of the vehicle <NUM>. The movement required to adjust the mirror head <NUM> such that it adjusts the rearward field of view of the driver of the vehicle <NUM> is less than that required to move the mirror head <NUM> from the drive position to the stored position or from the stored position to the drive position.

<FIG> show a side view of the rear view device <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

As shown in the <FIG>, the rear view device <NUM> includes the mirror base <NUM>, the mirror head <NUM>, and an axis <NUM>. In <FIG>, the rear view device <NUM> can be seen in a side view with the mirror head <NUM> in a nominal position. When actuated in a first direction as shown by line <NUM>, movement is imparted to the mirror head <NUM> such that it is tilted upwards to the position shown in <FIG>. When actuated in a second direction as shown by line <NUM>, movement is imparted to the mirror head <NUM> such that it is tiled downward to the position shown in <FIG>.

The actuation of the mirror head about the axis <NUM> can be done from any position to move the mirror head <NUM> to any other position about the axis <NUM>. For example, the mirror head may start tilted upwards as shown in <FIG> and then actuated in the second direction to tilt the mirror head <NUM> downwards. While being tilted downwards, actuation can be stopped to adjust the mirror head <NUM> to the nominal position shown in <FIG> or continued to adjust the mirror head <NUM> downwards until it reaches the position shown in <FIG>. Further, the mirror head <NUM> can be tilted to any position between that shown in <FIG>.

The description and the discussion of the figures that follows is in regards to the rear view device <NUM>, however it should be noted that device <NUM> functions in a similar fashion.

<FIG> shows an actuator <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown in the figure, the actuator <NUM> includes the axis <NUM> and the axis <NUM>. The axis <NUM> is substantially perpendicular to the axis <NUM>. Further, the axis <NUM> is substantially vertical relative to actuator <NUM> and the axis <NUM> is substantially horizontal relative to actuator <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an exploded view of the actuator <NUM> of <FIG> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. <FIG> shows an additional exploded view of the actuator <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

As shown in the <FIG>, the actuator <NUM> further includes an upper housing <NUM>, a lower housing <NUM>, an interleaved hinge <NUM> providing one or more connection spaces between two layers, projections or the like, an aperture <NUM>, a tail-pin <NUM>, a connector <NUM>, a camera mount <NUM>, a fastener <NUM>, a shroud <NUM>, protrusions <NUM>, guides <NUM>, a further fastener <NUM>, a further aperture <NUM>, a tilt axle <NUM>, and a foot <NUM>. The shroud <NUM> provides a spherical seat and further includes one or more clips <NUM>, one or more guides <NUM>, and a still further aperture <NUM>. The tilt axle <NUM> further comprises an aperture <NUM>.

The upper housing <NUM> and the lower housing <NUM> are operable to house the internal components of the actuator <NUM>. The upper housing <NUM> and the lower housing <NUM> are additionally operable to be joined or fastened together by the fastener <NUM>. In this example variation, the fastener <NUM> is illustrated as a bolt. However, in other variations, the fastener <NUM> may be a pin, weld, clip or any other fastener or fastening method that allows the upper housing <NUM> and the lower housing <NUM> to be joined together.

The interleaved hinge <NUM> is operable to allow movement of a case frame (see case frame <NUM> in <FIG>) of the rear view device <NUM>. The interleaved hinge <NUM> is additionally operable to contain the aperture <NUM> and to be comprised of multiple protrusions with gaps in-between each successive protrusion. The gaps between the protrusions allow the case frame <NUM> with corresponding protrusions to be interleaved with the interleaved hinge <NUM>.

The aperture <NUM> is operable to allow insertion of the tail-pin <NUM> and to be axially aligned with an aperture of an interleaved hinge of the case frame <NUM> as will be explained below (shown in <FIG>). The aperture <NUM> is further operable to be axially aligned with the axis <NUM> of <FIG>.

The tail-pin <NUM> is operable to be placed through the aperture <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM>. The tail-pin <NUM> is additionally operable to be placed through the aperture <NUM> and an aperture of a case lower <NUM> or the case frame <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) interleaved with interleaved hinge <NUM>. The operation and interleaving of the case lower <NUM> or the case frame <NUM> with the interleaved hinge <NUM>, the aperture <NUM>, and the tail-pin <NUM> will be further discussed later with additional reference to <FIG>.

The connector <NUM> is operable to be inserted into the actuator <NUM>. When the connector <NUM> is inserted into the actuator <NUM>, it may deliver power from the vehicle to the actuator <NUM>.

The camera mount <NUM> is operable to connect to the lower housing <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> and to be fixed to the actuator <NUM> by placing the fastener <NUM> through the camera mount <NUM> and into the aperture <NUM>.

In this example variation, the fastener <NUM> is illustrated as a bolt, however in other example variations, the fastener <NUM> may be a pin, weld, clip or any other fastener or fastening method that enables the fixing of the camera mount <NUM> to the actuator <NUM>. Additionally, in this example variation, the camera mount <NUM> is designed to secure a camera (not shown) for use with the rear view device <NUM>; however in other variations, the camera mount <NUM> could be used to secure any one of a number of components used in the rear view device <NUM>. Non-limiting examples of components which could be mounted on the camera mount <NUM> include a multi-functional lamp unit, a turn signal module, an approach lamp, or an electronic module such as a GPS module or Wi-Fi module.

The shroud <NUM> is operable to attach to the actuator <NUM> in order to provide a seal for any gaps created between the mirror base <NUM> and the mirror head <NUM>. The shroud <NUM> is further operable to be attached to the actuator <NUM> via the lower housing <NUM>. The shroud <NUM> comprises the one or more guides <NUM> which are aligned with the guides <NUM> of the lower housing <NUM>. When assembled, the geometry of the guides <NUM> and the guides <NUM> interact in order to align the shroud <NUM> for proper placement onto the lower housing <NUM>. During assembly, as the shroud <NUM> is placed onto the lower housing <NUM>, the clips <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> interlock with the protrusions <NUM> of the lower housing <NUM> in order to secure the shroud <NUM> to the actuator <NUM>. In this example variation, the shroud <NUM> is secured to the lower housing <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> via the clips <NUM>. In other example variations, the shroud <NUM> may be secured to the actuator <NUM> via any other fastening method, non-limiting examples of which include bolts, welds, crimps, or adhesives.

The shroud <NUM> is additionally operable to have the aperture <NUM>. When the shroud <NUM> is assembled and connected to the actuator <NUM>, the foot <NUM> is able to fit inside the aperture <NUM>. Once the foot <NUM> is fit into the aperture <NUM> of the shroud <NUM>, it may be connected to the mirror base <NUM> directly or a base frame <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of the mirror base <NUM> to fix the actuator <NUM> in place.

The tilt axle <NUM> is operable to provide rotational movement about the axis <NUM> when driven by the actuator <NUM>. The tilt axle <NUM> is additionally operable to be fastened to the case lower <NUM> or case frame <NUM> of the rear view device <NUM>. The tilt axle <NUM> is further operable to comprise the aperture <NUM> to which a fastener may be attached. The tilt axle <NUM> is yet further operable to have a geometry that corresponds to a mounting element of the case lower <NUM> or the case frame <NUM>. In this variation, the geometry of the tilt axle <NUM> is rectangular however, any shape may be used to allow the tilt axle <NUM> to be fit into a corresponding mounting element. It should be noted that the tilt axle <NUM>, the aperture <NUM>, and the aperture <NUM> are axially aligned with the axis <NUM> described in <FIG>.

The foot <NUM> is operable to provide a connection to the mirror base <NUM> of the rear view device <NUM>. The foot <NUM> is additionally operable to connect to the mirror base <NUM> through the aperture <NUM> in the shroud <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the case lower <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown in the figure the case lower <NUM> further comprises an aperture <NUM>, at least one first mount <NUM>, a second mount <NUM>, and a further aperture <NUM>.

The case lower <NUM> is operable to provide a connection to the actuator <NUM> and a mounting point for the case frame <NUM>. It is not illustrated in the <FIG>, but the case lower <NUM> is additionally operable to provide, at least partially, a mounting point for a device, a backing plate, a bezel, a camera, a mirror cover, a light module, a multi-functional lamp, a turn signal, a light module, an antenna and/or any other component that may be included in the rear view device.

The aperture <NUM> is operable to provide a space for the foot <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> to be connected to the mirror base <NUM> of the rear view device <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is additionally operable to have a geometry that is complimentary to that of the shroud <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>.

The complimenting geometry allows the edge of the aperture <NUM> to rotate around the shroud <NUM> when the case lower <NUM> is moved while maintaining contact between aperture the <NUM> and the shroud <NUM>. The continuous contact between the shroud <NUM> and the circumferential edge of the aperture <NUM> during movement of the case lower <NUM> seals the gap between the actuator <NUM> and the case lower <NUM>, inhibiting the intrusion of contaminants into the mirror head <NUM>.

Each first mount <NUM> is operable to provide a mounting point in order to mount the case frame <NUM> to the case lower <NUM>.

The second mount <NUM> is operable to provide a mounting point in order to mount the tilt axle <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> to the case lower <NUM>. The second mount <NUM> is additionally operable to have a geometry such that it is able to receive the tilt axle <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>. The second mount <NUM> is further operable to contain the aperture <NUM> through which a fastener may be inserted to fasten the tilt axle <NUM> to the case lower <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is operable to receive a fastener as well as operable to be axially aligned with the axis <NUM> of <FIG>. As can be seen in <FIG>, the second mount <NUM> has the general shape of a rectangular slot. This slot corresponds to the rectangular shape of the tilt axle <NUM>. During assembly, the tilt axle <NUM> can be rotated until it is aligned with the second mount <NUM> such that once aligned, the tilt axle <NUM> can be lifted up and fit into the mount <NUM> and then fixedly attached by inserting a fastener through the aperture <NUM> and into the aperture <NUM> of the tilt axle <NUM>. After being aligned and fastened, the tilt axle <NUM> and the case lower <NUM> become rotationally locked, meaning that when the actuator <NUM> rotates the tilt axle <NUM>, the case lower <NUM> will rotate as well.

<FIG> illustrates the actuator <NUM> being assembled to the case lower <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, and the mirror base <NUM>, and a fastener <NUM> are shown.

In operation, the actuator <NUM> is lowered onto the case lower <NUM> until the shroud <NUM> comes into contact with the aperture <NUM>. Since the surface of the shroud <NUM> matches the surface of the aperture <NUM>, once in contact, the actuator <NUM> will rest on the case lower <NUM>, via the shroud <NUM>. At this time, tilt axle <NUM> is fit into the mount <NUM>. As described above, the geometry of the tilt axle <NUM> corresponds to that of the mount <NUM> such that the tilt axle <NUM> may be fit into the mount <NUM> and then secured by inserting the fastener <NUM> through the aperture <NUM> and into the tilt axle <NUM>. In this manner, when the tilt axle <NUM> is rotated, the case lower <NUM> will rotate as well. In this embodiment, the fastener <NUM> is illustrated as a pin. However, in other variations, the fastener <NUM> may be a bolt, weld, snap, or any other fastener or fastening method that enables the tilt axle <NUM> to be attached to the mount <NUM>.

At this point, the case lower <NUM> has been attached to the actuator <NUM> via the fastener <NUM>. However, it should be obvious to those skilled in the art an issue that would arise with using one attachment point. Further, it is desired to provide a means and a method of attachment for the rest of the components used in the device. The issue of a single attachment point between the case lower <NUM> and actuator <NUM> as well as the issue of providing attachment means for other elements is solved by the use of the case frame <NUM>, which acts as a motor cradle by attaching the actuator <NUM>. Such a case frame <NUM> for use in a device <NUM>, <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure will now be discussed with additional reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates that the case frame <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure includes a mount <NUM>, an interleaved hinge <NUM>, an aperture <NUM>, and webs <NUM>.

The case frame <NUM> is operable to provide a connection to the actuator <NUM> (not shown) via the interleaved hinge <NUM> and the aperture <NUM>, as well as a mounting point for the case lower <NUM> via the mount <NUM>. It is to be noted, although not illustrated in <FIG>, the case frame <NUM> is additionally operable to provide, at least partially, a mounting point for a device, a backing plate, a bezel, a camera, a mirror cover, a light module, a multi-functional lamp, a turn signal, a light module, an antenna and/or any other component that may be included in a rear view device.

The mount <NUM> is operable to provide mounting points which correspond to the mount <NUM> of the case lower <NUM> in order to facilitate the attachment of the case frame <NUM> to the case lower <NUM>. The mount <NUM> may be fastened to the mount <NUM> via one of a plurality of known fastening methods including bolts, clips, pins, welds, or any other known fastening method.

The interleaved hinge <NUM> of the case frame <NUM> is operable to have a geometry that is the mirror of the interleaved hinge <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> such that when assembled, the webs <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM> fit in-between the webs of the interleaved hinge <NUM>. The interleaved hinge <NUM> is additionally operable to be assembled with the interleaved hinge <NUM> such that the aperture <NUM> of the case frame <NUM> aligns with the aperture <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is operable to be axially aligned with the axis <NUM> of <FIG>.

The webs <NUM> are operable to provide clearance between the case frame <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> during the operation of actuator <NUM>.

The assembly of the case frame <NUM> will now be discussed with additional reference to <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates the case frame <NUM> being attached to a device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

As shown, <FIG> includes the case frame <NUM> with its mount <NUM> and aperture <NUM>; the case lower <NUM> with its mount <NUM>; the tail-pin <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> of the upper housing <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>; and the axis <NUM>. The elements common between previous figures and <FIG> have already been described, and for the purposes of brevity will not be described here again.

In operation, once the tilt axle <NUM> has been fastened to the case lower <NUM>, the case frame <NUM> maybe attached. During this process, the case frame <NUM> is lowered on to the case lower <NUM> such that the mount <NUM> and the mount <NUM> are aligned, which allows the protrusions of the interleaved hinge <NUM> and the protrusions of the interleaved hinge <NUM> to be interleaved.

Referring to <FIG>, once the mount <NUM> and the mount <NUM> have been aligned, they may be fastened together to fix the case frame <NUM> to the case lower <NUM> via one of a plurality of known fastening methods including bolts, clips, pins, welds, or any other known fastening method.

With the case frame <NUM> securely attached to the case lower <NUM>, the aperture <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> are axially aligned which allows the insertion of the tail-pin <NUM>. Once inserted, the tail-pin <NUM> secures the case frame <NUM> and the case lower <NUM> to the actuator <NUM>. The securing of the case frame <NUM> and the case lower <NUM> to the actuator <NUM> provides the second attachment point for the case lower <NUM>. The case lower <NUM> is now supported on two opposing ends of a single axis, which provides a large degree of rigidity and strength. Further, without being provided a second attachment point, the outer end of the case lower <NUM> would be free to move or vibrate which would increase in severity as the additional components are installed in the device.

At this point, the foot <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> can be attached to the mirror base <NUM>. In this embodiment, fasteners are insert upwards through the mirror base <NUM> and into the foot <NUM> in order to securely fix the actuator <NUM>. In other example variations, interlocking geometry, a locking ring, or any other method of attachment may be used in order securely attach the actuator to the mirror base. As described above, in this configuration the surface geometry of the shroud <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> of the case lower <NUM> creates a seal which substantially prevents the intrusion of contaminants into the mirror head <NUM>.

In this manner, rotational motion around the axis <NUM> is transferred from the tilt axle <NUM> to the case lower <NUM> via the mount <NUM> (<FIG>). Simultaneously, the transfer of rotational motion from the tilt axle <NUM> about the axis <NUM> results in the rotation of the case lower <NUM> about the axis <NUM> on the side of the actuator <NUM> opposite the tilt axle <NUM>. There are two attachment points which are used to connect the case lower <NUM> to the actuator <NUM>. The first attachment point is between the tilt axle <NUM> and the mount <NUM> of the case lower <NUM>, which enables rotation of the case lower <NUM> around the fastener <NUM>. The second attachment point is between the case frame <NUM> and the interleaved hinge <NUM>, via the intermediate connection made by fixing the case lower <NUM> to the case frame <NUM>, which enables rotation of the case frame <NUM> about the tail-pin <NUM>. The two attachment points and their rotational focal points, namely the tail-pin <NUM> and the fastener <NUM>, are axially aligned to the axis <NUM> in order to enable smooth rotational movement. If the rotational focal points were not aligned with the tilt axle <NUM> along the axis <NUM>, there would be a torque induced by the misalignment which would impede movement.

It should be noted that with the case lower <NUM> effectively being attached to the actuator <NUM>, the case lower <NUM> cannot fall and come into contact with the mirror base <NUM>. Any interaction or contact between the case lower <NUM> and the mirror base <NUM> would inhibit the function of the actuator <NUM> which could lead to costly redesigns or replacements.

Additionally, attaching the case lower <NUM> to the actuator <NUM> in the manner described above leads to the inner circumference of the aperture <NUM> being held against the outer surface of the shroud <NUM>. In this configuration, when the case lower <NUM> is moved via the rotation of the tilt axle <NUM>, the edge of the aperture <NUM> rotates about the shroud <NUM> without clashing. This enables the smooth operation of the actuator <NUM> while maintaining a seal between the shroud <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> to prevent the intrusion of contaminants. The tilt operation of actuator <NUM> will now be discussed with additional reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a cross section <NUM> cut along the rear view device <NUM>, <NUM>, and <FIG> illustrate head-on views along the cross section <NUM> of the rear view device <NUM>, <NUM> with the mirror head <NUM> in multiple nominal or tilted positions in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The elements common between previous figures and <FIG> have already been described, and for the purposes of brevity will not be described here again. It should be noted that in <FIG>, the tail-pin <NUM>, the connector <NUM>, and the camera mount <NUM> have been removed to provide a clear view of the interaction between the interleaved hinge <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> and the webs <NUM> of interleaved hinge <NUM> of the case frame <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, when the mirror head <NUM> is in a nominal position, there is a gap between the webs <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM> and the interleaved hinge <NUM> of actuator <NUM>. <FIG> shows the view of mirror head <NUM> when tilted upward. When powered, the tilt axle <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> begins to rotate which in turn rotates the case lower <NUM> since it is rotationally locked to the tilt axle <NUM>. Opposite of the tilt axle <NUM> is the tail-pin <NUM>, which provides a point around which the case frame <NUM> may rotate. As illustrated in <FIG>, as the mirror head tilts upward the gap between the left side of the webs <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM> and the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> begins to decrease. Once the mirror head <NUM> is fully tilted upward, the sloped portion of the webs <NUM> touches the actuator <NUM> at the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> shown by point <NUM>. The geometry of the webs <NUM> allows the sloped portion of the webs <NUM> and the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> to be flush when they contact. The contact between the webs <NUM> and the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> provides a hard stop for the actuator <NUM> and prevents the mirror head <NUM> from being tilted upward any further.

<FIG>, shows a view of the mirror head <NUM> when tilted downward. When powered, the tilt axle <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> begins to rotate in a direction opposite that shown in <FIG> which in turn rotates the case lower <NUM> since it is rotationally locked to the tilt axle <NUM>. Opposite of the tilt axle <NUM> is the tail-pin <NUM>, which provides a point around which the case frame <NUM> may rotate. As illustrated in <FIG>, as the mirror head <NUM> tilts downwards the gap between the right side of the webs <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM> and the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> begins to decrease. Once fully tilted downward, the sloped portion of the webs <NUM> contacts the actuator <NUM> at the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> shown by point <NUM>. The geometry of the webs <NUM> allows the sloped portion of the webs <NUM> and the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> to be flush when they contact. The contact between the webs <NUM> and the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> provides a hard stop for the actuator <NUM> and prevents the mirror head <NUM> from being tilted downward any further.

In this manner, the tilting of the mirror head <NUM> can be achieved using the actuator <NUM> while preventing any unwanted contact between the case frame <NUM> and actuator housing <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, the sloped sides of the webs <NUM> of the case frame <NUM> allow contact between the case frame <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> to function as a hard stop mechanism to prevent over-travel of the mirror head <NUM> in the upward or downward direction during the tilt operation. Further, the tilting operation can be performed with a single actuator that also provides a powerfold operation.

In the previous example variations, a two part system comprising a case lower and case frame were used along with a single actuator to provide both the tilting and folding operations of a rear view device. However, in other variations a spider frame may be used, which will now be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a spider frame <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, being an alternative to the cradle kind case frame <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the spider frame <NUM> includes a mount <NUM>, an interleaved hinge <NUM>, an aperture <NUM>, a set of webs <NUM>, an aperture <NUM>, a mount <NUM>, and an aperture <NUM>.

The elements common between the case frame <NUM> and the spider frame <NUM> are functionally similar. The mount <NUM> is operable to provide an attachment mechanism to the case lower, <NUM>; the interleaved hinge <NUM> is operable to engage with the opposing interleaved hinge <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>; the aperture <NUM> is operable to be axially aligned with the axis <NUM> as well as to receive the tail-pin <NUM>; and the webs <NUM> are operable to provide clearance between the spider frame <NUM> and the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is operable to provide an opening such that the tail-pin <NUM> may be insert into the aperture <NUM>.

The spider frame <NUM> additionally includes several elements that were attached to the case lower <NUM> in previous variations, namely the mount <NUM> and the aperture <NUM>. The mount <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> are functionally similar to the corresponding elements of the case lower <NUM>. As you can see in <FIG>, the mount <NUM> has the general shape of a rectangular slot. The rectangular slot shape corresponds to the rectangular shape of the tilt axle <NUM>. During assembly, the tilt axle <NUM> can be rotated until it is aligned with the mount <NUM> such that once aligned, the tilt axle <NUM> can be lifted up and fit into the mount <NUM> and then fixedly attached by inserting the fastener <NUM> through the aperture <NUM> and into the aperture <NUM> of the tilt axle <NUM>. After being aligned and fastened, the tilt axle <NUM> and the spider frame <NUM> become rotationally locked, meaning that when the actuator <NUM> rotates the tilt axle <NUM>, the spider frame <NUM> will rotate as well.

The assembly of the spider frame <NUM> will now be discussed with additional reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates the spider frame <NUM> being attached to the rearview mirror assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. A mount <NUM> of the case lower <NUM> is operable to provide a mounting point which corresponds to the mount <NUM> of the spider frame <NUM>. The difference between the mount <NUM> and mount the <NUM> described in <FIG> is that the geometry of the mount <NUM> has been modified such that it may be attached to the mount <NUM> of the spider frame <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the spider frame <NUM> that has been attached to the rear view device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Once the spider frame <NUM> is attached to the actuator <NUM> and the case lower <NUM>, the system may operate as described previously in <FIG>. In short, on a first side, the tilt axle <NUM> is insert into the mount <NUM> of the spider frame <NUM> and then held in place via the insertion of the fastener <NUM>. On the side of the actuator <NUM> opposite the tilt axle <NUM>, the tail-pin <NUM> can be insert into the aperture <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM>. At this time, the mount <NUM> of the spider frame <NUM> may be fixed to the mount <NUM> of the case lower <NUM>.

Once the spider frame <NUM> has been installed, the actuator <NUM> can be operated in order to provide movement to the mirror head <NUM>. When the actuator <NUM> is powered it can begin to rotate the tilt axle <NUM>. Since the fastener <NUM> and the tail-pin <NUM> used to attach the spider frame <NUM> to the actuator <NUM> are axially aligned along the axis <NUM>, the rotational motion of the tilt axle <NUM> can be transferred to the mirror head <NUM> such that it rotates about the axis <NUM>, via the spider frame <NUM> and case lower <NUM>. The geometry of the interleaved hinges <NUM>, <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> and spider frame <NUM> enable movement of the spider frame <NUM> and case lower <NUM> without interference. When tilted either upward or downward to the maximum designed angle, the surface of one the sloped sides of the webs <NUM> of the spider frame hinge <NUM> contact the base portion of the actuator interleaved hinge <NUM> in order to prevent further tilting of the mirror head <NUM>.

In the previous embodiments, a two part system comprising a case lower and a case frame or spider frame were used along with a single actuator to provide both the tilting and folding operations of a rear view device. However, in other variations a bezel mounted case frame <NUM> may be used, which will now be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, and the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> includes a mount <NUM>, an interleaved hinge <NUM>, an aperture <NUM>, a set of webs <NUM>, an aperture <NUM>, a mount <NUM>, an aperture <NUM>, and a mount <NUM>.

The elements common between the case frame <NUM> and the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> are functionally similar. The mount <NUM> is operable to provide an attachment mechanism to the case lower <NUM>, the interleaved hinge <NUM> is operable to engage with the opposing interleaved hinge <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>, the aperture <NUM> is operable to be axially aligned with the axis <NUM> as well as to receive the tail-pin <NUM>; and the webs <NUM> are operable to provide clearance between the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> and the base of the interleaved hinge <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is operable to provide an opening such that the tail-pin <NUM> may be insert into the aperture <NUM>.

The bezel mounted case frame <NUM> additionally includes several elements that were attached to the case lower <NUM> in previous variations, namely the mount <NUM> and the aperture <NUM>. The mount <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> are functionally similar to the corresponding elements of the case lower <NUM>. As you can see in <FIG>, the mount <NUM> has the general shape of a rectangular slot. The rectangular slot shape corresponds to the rectangular shape of the tilt axle <NUM>. During assembly, the tilt axle <NUM> can be rotated until it is aligned with the mount <NUM> such that once aligned, the tilt axle <NUM> can be lifted up and fit into the mount <NUM> and then fixedly attached by inserting the fastener <NUM> through the aperture <NUM> and into the aperture <NUM> of the tilt axle <NUM>. After being aligned and fastened, the tilt axle <NUM> and the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> become rotationally locked, meaning that when the actuator <NUM> rotates the tilt axle <NUM>, the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> will rotate as well.

The assembly bezel mounted case frame <NUM> will now be discussed with additional reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> being attached to the rear r view device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. A mount <NUM>, a bezel like backing plate assembly <NUM> and a mount <NUM> are shown in addition to the mount <NUM>, the interleaved hinge <NUM>, the mount <NUM>, the aperture <NUM>, the mount <NUM>, the fastener <NUM>, the case lower <NUM>, the tilt axle <NUM>, the actuator <NUM>, and the axis <NUM>. The elements common between previous figures and <FIG> have already been described, and for the purposes of brevity will not be described here again.

The mount <NUM> of the case lower <NUM> is operable to provide a mounting point which corresponds to the mount <NUM> of the bezel mounted case frame <NUM>. The difference between the mount <NUM> and the mount <NUM> described in <FIG> is that the mount <NUM> has been modified such that it may be attached to the mount <NUM> of the bezel mounted case frame <NUM>.

The backing plate assembly <NUM> is operable to provide or support a means of reflecting the view from the rearward of the vehicle <NUM> towards the driver of the vehicle <NUM>. In this example variation, the backing plate assembly <NUM> is provided as a complete assembly, in other variations, the backing plate assembly <NUM> may be provided as a frame or mounting portion to which a glass or reflective element may be attached at a later time. The backing plate assembly <NUM> is additionally operable to comprise the mount <NUM> which allow attachment to the mount <NUM> of the bezel mounted case frame <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> that has been attached to the rear view device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown in <FIG>, once the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> is attached to the actuator <NUM> and the case lower <NUM>, the system may operate as described previously in <FIG>. In short, the tilt axle <NUM> is insert into the mount <NUM> of the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> and then held in place via the insertion of the fastener <NUM>. On the side of the actuator <NUM> opposite the tilt axle <NUM>, the tail-pin <NUM> can be insert into the aperture <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> of the interleaved hinge <NUM>. At this time, the mount <NUM> of the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> may be fixed to the mount <NUM> of the case lower <NUM>. The backing plate assembly <NUM> may then be attached to the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> by fixing the mount <NUM> to the mount <NUM>.

Once the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> has been installed the actuator can be operated. When the actuator <NUM> is powered it can begin to rotate the tilt axle. Since the fastener <NUM> and tail-pin <NUM> used to attach the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> to the actuator <NUM> are axially aligned along the axis <NUM>, the rotational motion of the tilt axle <NUM> can be transferred to the entire mirror head <NUM> such that it rotates around the axis <NUM>, via the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> and case lower <NUM>. The geometry of the interleaved hinges <NUM>, <NUM> of both the actuator <NUM> and the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> enable movement of the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> and case lower <NUM> without interference. When tilted either upward or downward to the maximum designed angle, the surface of one side of the sloped sides of the webs <NUM> of the bezel mounted case frame <NUM> contact the base portion of the actuator interleaved hinge <NUM> in order to prevent further tilting of the mirror head.

In further embodiments, a rear view device with an actuator for mirror adjustment may be provided with a gasket to seal any gap between the shroud <NUM> and case lower <NUM>, which will now be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a case lower <NUM> and a gasket <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the case lower <NUM> includes an aperture <NUM>, a guide <NUM>, at least one recess <NUM>, and attachment points <NUM>. The gasket <NUM> includes an at least one protrusion <NUM> and a seal <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is operable to provide an opening through which a mirror base (not shown) can be connected to an actuator (not shown). Each attachment point <NUM> is operable to provide a point to which a case frame (not shown) may be attached to the case lower <NUM>. The guide <NUM> is provided on the case lower <NUM> with a curvature that matches the curvature of the gasket <NUM>. When at least one protrusion <NUM> of the gasket <NUM> is aligned with at least one recess <NUM> of the guide <NUM>, the gasket <NUM> can be installed on the case lower <NUM>. The guide <NUM> and the insertion of the at least one protrusion <NUM> into the at least one recess <NUM> fixes the gasket <NUM> in place relative to the case lower <NUM>.

The gasket <NUM> and the seal <NUM> are described as individual elements, however in this form they are combined as a single element. During production, the gasket <NUM> and the seal <NUM> can be produced as a single element using a double injection molding technique (<NUM> or two-shot molding). <NUM> molding is a manufacturing process in which a complicated molded part can be produced by a single molding machine use two different materials. In this embodiment, the gasket <NUM> is molded from PP-GF material, however in other variations the gasket <NUM> may be molded from ASA, ABS, PMMA or any other material which may be molded as part of a <NUM> process. Additionally in this embodiment, the seal <NUM> is molded from TPE material, however in other variations the seal <NUM> may be molded from silicone, PVC, or any other material which may be molded as part of a <NUM> process.

<FIG> illustrates a bottom view of an actuator <NUM> and a shroud <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The actuator <NUM> includes an extension <NUM> and an at least one aperture <NUM>, where in this embodiment , the at least one aperture <NUM> includes three apertures. The shroud <NUM> includes a first protrusion 1610A and a second protrusion 1610B. The extension <NUM> is operable to be received within a recess of a base frame (not shown) that has a corresponding geometry. The matching geometries ensures the correct alignment between the actuator <NUM> and the mirror base. The at least one aperture <NUM> is operable to receive a fastener (not shown) in order to fix the actuator <NUM> to the base frame of the rear view device. The shroud <NUM> is attached to the actuator <NUM> as described above in <FIG> and for purposes of brevity, will not be described here again. The protrusions 1610A, 1610B extend through the aperture <NUM> of the case lower <NUM> of <FIG> when the actuator <NUM> is arranged on the case lower <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the shroud <NUM> is molded from PBT-GF material, however in other variations the shroud <NUM> may be molded from ASA, ABS, PMMA or any other material which may be molded.

<FIG> illustrates a top-down view and <FIG> illustrates a bottom-up view of the actuator <NUM> fixed to the case lower <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown in <FIG>, the case frame <NUM> has a first attachment element which in this variation is attachment point <NUM>, and a second attachment element which in this variation is attachment point <NUM>. The case frame <NUM> is attached to the actuator <NUM> via the attachment points <NUM>, <NUM>, where the first attachment point <NUM> attaches to the tilt axle <NUM> of the actuator as explained with respect to <FIG> and the attachment point <NUM> attaches to the interleaved hinge <NUM> as explained with respect to <FIG>. The case frame <NUM> is attached to the actuator <NUM> via the first attachment point <NUM> and the second attachment point <NUM> as described above with respect to <FIG>, and for purposes of brevity the details of those methods will not be discussed again here.

The actuator <NUM> is then arranged onto the case lower <NUM> such that the shroud <NUM> abuts the seal <NUM> of the gasket <NUM>. Once the shroud <NUM> abuts the seal <NUM> (not shown), the case frame <NUM> may be attached to the case lower <NUM> via the mounting points <NUM>. Since the case frame <NUM> is attached to the actuator <NUM>, when the case frame <NUM> is further fixed to the case lower <NUM>, the actuator <NUM> is also coupled to the case lower <NUM> keeping the shroud <NUM> in abutment with the seal <NUM> of the gasket <NUM>. The abutment between the shroud <NUM> and the seal <NUM> seals and prevents the intrusion of contaminants such as water, dust, salt, or other fluid or debris into the mirror head.

Referring to <FIG>, it can be seen that, when the actuator <NUM> is attached to the case lower <NUM>, the first and second protrusions 1610A, 1610B extend through the aperture <NUM> of the case lower <NUM>. Additionally, the extension <NUM> of the shroud <NUM> and the at least one aperture <NUM> are accessible through the aperture <NUM> of the case lower <NUM> for attachment to a mirror base (not shown).

In this embodiment, the shroud <NUM> abuts the seal <NUM> of the gasket <NUM>. As described above with respect to <FIG>, the actuator <NUM> is operable to rotate the case lower <NUM> along two separate axes, which also in this embodiment are the axis <NUM> and the axis <NUM>. During rotation around the axis <NUM>, both the shroud <NUM> and the case lower <NUM> rotate simultaneously with the actuator <NUM>. During the rotation around the axis <NUM>, there is no relative movement between the shroud <NUM> and the case lower <NUM> or between the shroud <NUM> and the seal <NUM> and the gasket <NUM>.

During the rotation of the case lower <NUM> about the axis <NUM>, the shroud <NUM> remains static as it is fixedly attached to the actuator <NUM>. As the case lower <NUM> rotates so does the gasket <NUM>, which results in the seal <NUM> moving across the surface of the shroud <NUM>. Since the seal <NUM> and the shroud <NUM> are in abutment, the materials chosen for the seal <NUM> and the shroud <NUM> therefore affect the ability of the case lower <NUM> to be rotated about the axis <NUM> by the actuator <NUM>. The material of the shroud <NUM> and the seal <NUM> can be chosen to increase or decrease the ability of the actuator <NUM> to rotate the case lower <NUM> about the axis <NUM>.

Additionally, the requirements by a manufacturer or customer for the surface of the shroud <NUM> may lead to a material being used that is not suitable for the actuator <NUM>. By having the shroud <NUM> separate from the actuator <NUM>, these surface requirements may be met without impeding the integrity or functionality of the actuator <NUM>.

The attachment of the actuator <NUM> to a mirror base will now be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a mirror base with a base frame <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the base frame <NUM> includes one or more recesses <NUM>, at least one aperture <NUM>, and a protrusion <NUM>. Each recess <NUM> has a contour that matches the contour of the extension <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> such that when the actuator <NUM> is arranged on the base frame <NUM>, the matching contours encourages the alignment of the at least one aperture <NUM>, where in this embodiment the at least one aperture <NUM> includes three apertures of base frame <NUM> matching with apertures <NUM> of the actuator <NUM>. The alignment between the apertures <NUM>, <NUM> allows for the insertion of a fastener in order to fixedly attach the actuator <NUM> to the base frame <NUM>. In this embodiment , the fastener used to fixedly attach the actuator <NUM> to the base frame <NUM> is a bolt (not shown). However, in other variations, the fastener used may be a pin, weld, clip or any other fastener or fastening method that can fixedly attach the actuator <NUM> to the base frame <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is provided on the base frame <NUM> as an attachment point for a breakface gasket (not shown).

<FIG> illustrates a front view of the actuator <NUM> attached to the base frame <NUM> in a nominal position in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown in <FIG>, the base frame <NUM> is provided with a breakface gasket <NUM>. The breakface gasket <NUM> includes a fastener <NUM>, which in this example variation is a clip, insert into the aperture <NUM> of the base frame <NUM>. The fastener <NUM> inserted into the aperture <NUM> fixedly secures the breakface gasket <NUM> to the base frame <NUM>. When the actuator <NUM> is attached to the base frame <NUM>, the breakface gasket <NUM> abuts the shroud <NUM> in order to seal the gap between the base frame <NUM> and the actuator <NUM>. Additionally, the case frame <NUM> is coupled to the actuator <NUM> as well as the case lower <NUM> so that the shroud <NUM> abuts the seal <NUM> of the gasket <NUM>. Further, the actuator <NUM> has been attached to the base frame <NUM> by first aligning the extension <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> with the recess <NUM> of the base frame <NUM>. Once aligned, a fastener (not shown) is insert through the at least one aperture <NUM> and into the at least one aperture <NUM> to fixedly attach the actuator <NUM> to the base frame <NUM>.

The inclusion of the gasket <NUM> and the breakface gasket <NUM> into the rear view device using the actuator <NUM> improves the vibrational frequency of the rear view device. Without the gasket <NUM> or the breakface gasket <NUM>, the only support between the base frame <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> would be between the extensions <NUM> of actuator <NUM> and the recesses <NUM> of the base frame <NUM>. Fasteners would additionally be inserted through the at least one aperture <NUM> of the base frame <NUM> and into the at least one aperture <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> in order to fix the actuator <NUM> to the base frame <NUM>. The arrangement of the extensions <NUM> and recesses <NUM> as well as the insertion of the fasteners into the at least one aperture <NUM> and the at least one aperture <NUM> would primarily provide support along the axis <NUM>, while providing very little structural support along the axis <NUM>.

The abutment between the shroud <NUM> and the breakface gasket <NUM> as well as the abutment between the shroud <NUM> and the seal <NUM> of the gasket <NUM> provides additional support along the axis <NUM> as well as the axis <NUM>. This additional support along the axis <NUM> will reduce the vibration amplitude of the case lower <NUM> as well as any other elements attached to the case lower <NUM>, which in this embodiment includes a mirror reflective element (not shown).

<FIG> illustrates the assembly of <FIG> with the breakface gasket <NUM> removed for the purposes of clarity. When the actuator <NUM> is fixedly attached to the base frame <NUM>, the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion 1610B (not shown) of the shroud <NUM> extend through the case lower <NUM> towards the base frame <NUM> until they are in the same plane as the protrusion <NUM>. With the protrusion 1610A, the protrusion 1610B, and the protrusion <NUM> in the same plane, they may interact with each other to prevent continued travel of the mirror head during rotation from an impact. Further description of the protrusion 1610A, the protrusion 1610B, and the protrusion <NUM> acting as hard stops to prevent rotation during an impact will now be discussed with additional reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a front view of the shroud <NUM> hitting a hard stop in the rearward direction in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the shroud hitting a hard stop in the rearward direction in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. For purposes of clarity, the breakface gasket <NUM> has been removed from <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, when a force is applied to a portion of a mirror head, which in this example is represented by the case lower <NUM>, the force applied will cause the entire mirror head to rotate. In this embodiment, the force applied to the case lower <NUM> rotates the mirror head towards the rear of the equipped vehicle. Since the actuator <NUM>, the shroud <NUM>, and the case frame <NUM> are fixedly attached to the case lower <NUM> they will rotate as the case lower <NUM> rotates. The case lower <NUM> will continue to rotate until the protrusion 1610A of the shroud <NUM> abuts the protrusion <NUM> of the base frame <NUM>. The abutment between the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion <NUM> acts as a hard stop and prevents further rotation of the case lower <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a front view of the shroud <NUM> hitting a hard stop in the forward direction in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the shroud <NUM> hitting a hard stop in the forward direction in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. For purposes of clarity, the breakface gasket <NUM> has been removed from <FIG>. Similar to <FIG> above, when a force is applied to a portion of a mirror head, the force applied will cause the entire mirror head to rotate. In this embodiment, the force applied to the case lower <NUM> rotates the mirror head towards the front of the equipped vehicle. Since the actuator <NUM>, the shroud <NUM>, and the case frame <NUM> are fixedly attached to the case lower <NUM>, they will rotate as the case lower <NUM> rotates until the protrusion 1610B of the shroud <NUM> abuts the protrusion <NUM> of the base frame <NUM>. The abutment between the protrusion 1610B and the protrusion <NUM> acts as a hard stop and prevents further rotation of the case lower <NUM>.

The operation of the actuator <NUM> moving a mirror head along two different axes is identical to the operation of the actuator <NUM> discussed above with respect to <FIG>. The actuator <NUM> is operable to adjust the mirror head along two separate axes to perform both a tilt function and fold function. In this embodiment, the actuator <NUM> performs a folding function around the axis <NUM> and a tilt function around the axis <NUM>. The protrusion <NUM> is arranged on the base frame <NUM> and is fixed in place relative to the axis <NUM> and the axis <NUM>, while the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion 160B of the shroud <NUM> are fixed only along the axis <NUM>. Therefore, when the actuator <NUM> starts rotating, the shroud protrusions 1610A, 1610B rotate as well. The actuator <NUM> will continue rotating until there is a flush contact between the protrusion 1610A or the protrusion 1610B and the protrusion <NUM>.

If the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion 1610B were not fixed along the axis <NUM>, the protrusion 1610A or the protrusion 1610B could be rotated along the axis <NUM> such that they longer made a flush contact with the protrusion <NUM> during rotation around the axis <NUM>. As an example, if the protrusion 1610A were moved from the shroud <NUM> and arranged on the case lower <NUM> such that it was able to contact the protrusion <NUM>, any rotation of the case lower about the axis <NUM> would result in a non-flush contact between the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion <NUM> as the case lower <NUM> was rotated around the axis <NUM>. Non-flush contact between the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion <NUM> could result in damage to either part such as increase wear or shorter lifespan, and could possibly lead to damage of other parts of the rear view device due to a lack of hard stop functionality.

As described in <FIG>, the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion 1610B are arranged on the shroud <NUM> such that they act as a hard stop in a first direction or a second direction. In this embodiment, the first direction is towards the rearward of the vehicle and the second direction is toward the forward of the vehicle. Further, in this embodiment, the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion 1610B are arranged on the shroud <NUM> such that they contact the protrusion <NUM> after <NUM> degrees of rotation. After rotating <NUM> degrees in the rearward or forward direction from a nominal position, the protrusion 1610A or the protrusion 1610B will contact the protrusion <NUM> to prevent further rotation. However, depending on the manufacturer or customer, a different angle of rotation may be required. Still further in this embodiment, a different shroud can be attached to the actuator that has the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion 1610B arranged in different locations such that the protrusion 1610A contacts the protrusion <NUM> after <NUM> degrees of rotation in the rearward direction and the protrusion 1610B contacts the protrusion <NUM> after <NUM> degrees of rotation in the forward direction. A shroud may be produced with the protrusion 1610A and the protrusion 1610B arranged to act as a hard-stop after any angle that may be requested by a customer. In this manner, it possible to use a single actuator for all rear view devices, while only changing the shroud to deliver the rear view device with different maximum degrees of rotation.

<FIG> illustrates a base cover of a rear view device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, with an upper base cover <NUM> and a lower base cover <NUM> attached to the base frame <NUM>. When attached to the base frame <NUM>, the upper edge of the upper base cover <NUM> and the lower base cover <NUM> abut the breakface gasket <NUM>, creating a seal that prevents the intrusion of particles or contaminants from entering the rear view device through the gap between the breakface gasket <NUM> and the base frame <NUM>.

In the previous embodiments, a shroud has been provided for use with an actuator wherein the shroud is fixedly attached to the actuator. In this arrangement, the shroud travels with the actuator, however in other variations, a shroud may be provided that is static and not attached to an actuator. A static shroud <NUM> will now be discussed with reference to <FIG>/B.

<FIG> illustrates the static shroud <NUM> for a rear view device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. As shown in <FIG>, the base frame <NUM> is provided with the shroud <NUM>. The shroud <NUM>, is clamped between the base frame <NUM> and a shaft <NUM> of an actuator <NUM> as shown at point <NUM>. Once clamped between the base frame <NUM> and the shaft <NUM>, a fastener <NUM> can be inserted through the base frame <NUM> and into the shaft <NUM> in order to fix the shroud <NUM> and the shaft <NUM> to the base frame <NUM>. With the shroud <NUM> fixed in place, a seal is created between the shroud <NUM> and a base cover <NUM> as well as between the shroud <NUM> and the mirror head <NUM>, which prevents the intrusion of contaminants such as water, dust, salt, or other fluid or debris into the mirror head <NUM>.

During operation, the actuator <NUM> may rotate the mirror head <NUM> about the axis <NUM> or the axis <NUM> as described with respect to <FIG>. During the rotation around the axis <NUM>, the mirror head <NUM> now rotates relative to the shroud <NUM>. Since the mirror head <NUM> is rotating around the axis <NUM> and the shroud <NUM> is remaining static, the mirror head <NUM> will contact the shroud <NUM> at a contact point <NUM> around the circumference of the shroud <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates the rotation of the mirror head <NUM> around the static shroud <NUM> in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. During operation, the actuator <NUM> may be required to rotate the mirror head <NUM> about the axis <NUM> as described above with respect to <FIG>. The operation of the mirror head <NUM> rotating about the axis <NUM> is identical whether a static shroud or a shroud attached to an actuator is used. As the mirror head <NUM> rotates about the axis <NUM>, the case lower <NUM>, <NUM> of mirror head <NUM> traverses up one side of the shroud <NUM> and down the opposing side of the shroud <NUM>. During the rotation about the axis <NUM>, the mirror head <NUM> remains in contact as shown by the contact point <NUM> around the circumference of the shroud <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an alternative hinge <NUM> provided by the upper housing <NUM> of an actuator <NUM>, the shaft <NUM> of which also being shown. The hinge <NUM> comprises two recesses <NUM>, <NUM> on both sides of a projection <NUM>, and being arranged between two walls of the upper housing <NUM>, with the walls and the projection <NUM> acting as the webs discussed above. But for facilitating the introduction of a tail pin <NUM>, the upper housing <NUM> provides a single opening <NUM> for inserting the tail pin <NUM> such that a tilt bearing surface <NUM> of the tail pin <NUM> is supported by the projection <NUM>, whereas a screw area <NUM> of the tail pin <NUM> is adapted to be screwed into a further opening <NUM> of the upper housing <NUM> provided with an internal thread. This construction not only facilitates the insertion of the tail pin <NUM>, but at the same time also provides sufficient strength of the connection by making usage of the screw area <NUM>.

<FIG> show alternatives of <FIG>. In particular, an upper housing <NUM> with two walls can be seen, the first wall being provided with an opening <NUM> and the second wall being provided with an opening <NUM> with an internal thread. The two walls of the upper housing <NUM> are arranged to leave a recess <NUM> there between. A tail pin <NUM> is adapted to be inserted with a tilt bearing surface <NUM> into the opening <NUM> and with a screw area <NUM> in the opening <NUM>. The hinge <NUM> with the two walls and the recess <NUM> functions as the hinge with the webs discussed above.

The two alternative constructions of the hinge <NUM>, <NUM> formed with the upper housing <NUM>, <NUM> of the actuator <NUM> discussed with respect to <FIG>, interact with complementary hinges provided by case frames (not shown) in an analogue manner as described for the embodiments shown in <FIG>, as more or less just the number of leaves of the interleaved hinges have been reduced for the benefit of the assembling process. Thus, the hinges <NUM>, <NUM> each still act as an interleaved hinge allowing a tilting while also providing hard stops as described in detail with respect to <FIG>. The number of the leaves of the hinges can vary as the recesses between neighboring leaves and the extension of the leaves control the tilting range. While e.g. <FIG> shows three leaves of the hinge <NUM> with a reduction of the extensions thereof towards the edge of the upper actuator housing <NUM> , which leads to a sloped surface, wherein three slot like recesses are formed between said three leaves, e.g. <FIG> shows one leave of the hinge <NUM> providing one recess <NUM> which is sufficient to fulfill the above outlined functions for controlling the tilt range. The selection of the number of leaves as well as the distances between neighboring leaves, which determine the recesses, as well the heights of the leaves depends on the desired tilt range.

<FIG> shows an alternative tilt axle <NUM> having a central aperture <NUM> for inserting a fastener (not shown) as described with respect to the embodiments above. The difference between the tilt axle <NUM> and the tilt axle <NUM> in particular shown in <FIG> is the geometry, in particular the cross section thereof. The tilt axle <NUM> is substantially T-shaped with a tapered portion <NUM> and a rounded portion <NUM>. This geometry secures a safe attachment and easy insertion into the respective mount either provided by a case lower (not shown) or a case frame (not shown). Said mount can be in form of a slot with a geometry complementary to the one of the tilt axle <NUM>.

The rear view device <NUM> and the rear view device <NUM> may comprise desired elements not shown in the figures. Desired elements may include a camera module, an indicator module, a light module, a blind side detection module, a blind side indicator, a multi-functional light module, an external light module, an internal light module, a front light, a back light, a fog light, a brake light, an acceleration light, a turn signal, a logo lamp, a front area illumination light, a ground illumination light, a puddle light, a flash light, a navigation light, a position light, an emergency light, a spotlight, a green light, a red light, a warning light, a turn signal light module, an approach light, a search light, an information light, a display, an antenna and/or any combination thereof. Some of the desired elements may also be integrated such that they may operate behind or through a coating such as a partially transparent chromium base coating. An example of a partially transparent chromium based coating for polymeric substrates is described in <CIT> for COATED POLYMERIC SUBSTRATES and in <CIT> for DECORATIVE COATINGS FOR PLASTIC SUBSTRATES, which are all hereby incorporated herein by reference.

Some of the desired elements may provide an indication signal to a driver of a vehicle equipped with one of the rear view device <NUM> or the rear view device <NUM>. An example of providing an indication signal to a driver is described in <CIT> for AUTOMOBILE EXTERIOR REAR VIEW MIRROR BLIND SPOT WARNING INDICATION DEVICE and in <CIT> for LIGHT GUIDING DEVICE, which are all hereby incorporated herein by reference.

In summary, conventional rear view devices provide actuation of components along multiple axes. In order to enable actuation along multiple axes, a second actuator is used which adds engineering and assembly complexity as well as cost to the assembly.

Claim 1:
A rear view device (<NUM>, <NUM>) for a vehicle (<NUM>), said rear view device (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
• a base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) adapted to be mounted to a side of the vehicle (<NUM>), wherein said base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) has a first attachment end disposed at the side of the vehicle (<NUM>) and a second attachment end disposed opposite the first attachment end;
• a head (<NUM>, <NUM>) for supporting at least one means for providing a rearward field of view to a driver of the vehicle (<NUM>) and being disposed at said second attachment end of said base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein said head (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprises an aperture (<NUM>) through which said base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) can be accessed;
• an actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising a foot (<NUM>) and/or at least one extension (<NUM>) to be connected to the base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), a first attachment means, like protrusions (<NUM>), and a tilt axle (<NUM>, <NUM>);
• a shroud (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising second attachment means, like clips (<NUM>) or protrusions (1610A, 1610B), adapted to attach to said first attachment means of the actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to fixedly attach said shroud (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to said actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
• a case lower (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) rests on the case lower (<NUM>, <NUM>), via the shroud (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
• a case frame (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) mounted on the case lower (<NUM>, <NUM>);
characterized in that
the actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprises a hinge (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
the case frame (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprises a complementary hinge (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the hinge (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the actuator (<NUM>, <NUM>) is adapted to be engaged by the complementary hinge (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) provided by the case frame (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).