Cosmetic mirror
阅读说明：本技术 化妆镜 (Cosmetic mirror ) 是由 弗兰克·杨 戴维·韦尔贝特 约瑟夫·桑德尔 奥兰多·卡德纳斯 弗雷德里克·N·布什罗依 于 2013-03-01 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种镜组件,包括壳部、镜子和光源。在特定实施方式中,镜子包括构造用于沿着镜子周边发出基本恒定数量光的光管。在一些实施方式中,该镜组件包括传感器组件。该传感器组件可进行构造以根据使用者相对镜子的位置调节发光的数量。镜子的特定实施方式包括有算法以根据使用者相对镜子的位置调节光、环境光的数量和/或不同光模式的停用。(A mirror assembly includes a housing, a mirror, and a light source. In certain embodiments, the mirror includes a light pipe configured to emit a substantially constant amount of light along a perimeter of the mirror. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly may be configured to adjust the amount of illumination based on the position of the user relative to the mirror. Particular embodiments of the mirror include algorithms to adjust the light, the amount of ambient light, and/or the deactivation of different light patterns based on the user's position relative to the mirror.)
1. A mirror assembly, comprising:
a shell portion;
a mirror coupled to the housing portion;
a light source disposed around the mirror;
a light tunnel having a length and disposed around at least a portion of the perimeter of the mirror; and
a light scattering region disposed along the length of the light channel and having a pattern density configured to encourage a portion of the light striking the light scattering component to emanate from the light channel and toward a user of the mirror, the pattern density being less dense in a region spaced from the light source, the pattern density being denser along the perimeter of the mirror in a region generally opposite the light source, thereby encouraging a substantially constant amount of light to emanate along the length of the light channel.
2. A mirror assembly as in claim 1, wherein the diffusion region includes a light diffusion feature in an area generally proximate the light source that is smaller than a light diffusion feature in an area generally opposite the light source.
3. A mirror assembly as in claim 1, wherein the light source is disposed near an upper portion of the mirror.
4. A mirror assembly as in claim 1, wherein the light channel is a light pipe disposed along substantially all of the perimeter of the mirror.
5. A mirror assembly as in claim 1, wherein the light source emits light in a direction substantially perpendicular to a viewing surface of the mirror.
6. A mirror assembly as in claim 1, wherein the light channel includes a first end and a second end, and wherein a light source shines into the first end and another light source shines into the second end.
7. A mirror assembly as in claim 2, wherein the light scattering component is substantially uniformly distributed along at least a portion of the light channel.
8. A method of manufacturing a mirror assembly, the method comprising:
connecting the mirror and the housing;
arranging a light source at the periphery of the mirror;
providing a light channel around at least a portion of the perimeter of the mirror;
a light scattering region is disposed along a length of the light channel, the light scattering region having a pattern density configured to cause a portion of light impinging on the light scattering region to be emitted from the light channel, the pattern density being less dense in a region generally proximate to the light source, the pattern density being denser along a perimeter of the mirror in a region generally opposite the light source to cause a substantially constant amount of light to be emitted along the length of the light pipe.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising positioning the light source near an upper portion of a mirror.
10. The method of claim 8, further comprising providing the light tunnel around substantially all of a perimeter of the mirror.
11. The method of claim 8, further comprising positioning a light source to emit light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the viewing surface of the mirror.
12. The method of claim 8, further comprising providing a light source to emit light into the first end of the light tunnel and providing another light source to emit light into the second end of the light tunnel.
13. The method of claim 8, further comprising disposing the light scattering features in a substantially uniform pattern in the scattering region along at least a portion of the light channel.
14. A mirror assembly, comprising:
a shell portion;
a mirror coupled to the housing portion;
one or more light sources disposed at a periphery of the mirror;
a proximity sensor configured to detect an object within a sensing region, the proximity sensor configured to generate a signal indicating that the object is within a predetermined distance from the proximity sensor, and
an electronic processor configured to generate an electronic signal to the one or more light sources to emit light when the object is within a predetermined distance from the proximity sensor.
15. A mirror assembly as in claim 14, wherein the level of light generated is proportional to the distance between the object and the proximity sensor.
16. A mirror assembly as in claim 14, further comprising a backlight sensor.
17. A mirror assembly as in claim 14, further comprising an algorithm for countering false triggers.
18. A mirror assembly as in claim 14, further comprising a rechargeable portable power source.
19. A mirror assembly configured to provide an illuminated reflection for a user, the mirror assembly comprising:
a mirror;
at least one light source disposed at a periphery of the mirror;
a light delivery channel configured to receive light from the at least one light source and deliver the light at a substantially smooth or substantially uniform intensity along a perimeter of the mirror;
a reflective surface disposed along the light transmitting channel;
a sensor configured to detect the presence of a user in front of the mirror assembly; and
a controller in electrical communication with the sensor, the controller being configured to activate the light source to illuminate the user when the sensor detects the presence of the user in front of the mirror assembly and to deactivate the light source after a predetermined delay after the sensor no longer detects the presence of the user in front of the mirror assembly.
20. A mirror assembly as in claim 19, further comprising a support attached to the mirror, a shaft portion connected to the support behind the mirror, and a base connected to the shaft portion.
21. A mirror assembly as in claim 19, wherein the intensity of light emitted by the at least one light source is adjustable.
22. A mirror assembly as in claim 19, further comprising a rechargeable battery.
23. A mirror assembly as in claim 22, wherein the rechargeable battery is located within the base.
24. A mirror assembly as in claim 19, wherein the intensity of the light emitted by the light source is configured to be manually adjustable by a user.
25. A mirror assembly as in claim 19, wherein one or more functions of the mirror assembly are configured to be modified by a computer external to the mirror assembly.
26. A mirror assembly as in claim 25, wherein one of the one or more functions that the computer can modify is a color of light.
27. A mirror assembly as in claim 25, wherein the mirror assembly is configured to communicate wirelessly with the computer.
28. A mirror assembly as in claim 19, wherein the light transmission channel is substantially circular.
29. A mirror assembly configured to provide an illuminated reflection for a user, the mirror assembly comprising:
a mirror;
at least one light source disposed at a periphery of the mirror;
a light delivery channel configured to receive light from the at least one light source and deliver the light at a substantially smooth or substantially uniform intensity along a perimeter of the mirror;
a reflective surface disposed along the light transmitting channel;
a sensor configured to detect the presence of a user in front of the mirror assembly; and
a controller in electrical communication with the sensor, the controller configured to actuate the light source to illuminate the user when the sensor detects the presence of the user in front of the mirror assembly, and to deactivate the light source after the sensor no longer detects the presence of the user in front of the mirror assembly;
wherein the controller is configured to wirelessly communicate with a computer external to the mirror assembly to adjust the color of light emitted by the at least one light source.
30. A mirror assembly as in claim 29 in combination with a computer external to the mirror assembly.
31. A mirror assembly as in claim 29, wherein the intensity of the light is configured to be manually adjustable by a user.
32. A mirror assembly as in claim 29, wherein the mirror assembly includes a rechargeable power source.
33. A mirror assembly as in claim 29, wherein the mirror assembly is portable.
34. A mirror assembly as in claim 29, wherein the light-transmitting channel is configured to emit at least about 95% of the light emitted by the at least one light source.
35. A mirror assembly as in claim 29, further comprising a support attached to the mirror, a shaft connected to the support by a hinge located behind the mirror, and a base connected to the shaft.
36. A mirror assembly as in claim 35, wherein a rechargeable power source is located within the base.
37. A mirror assembly as in claim 35, wherein the support portion is not attached to the shaft portion on a periphery of the support portion.
38. A mirror assembly as in claim 29, wherein the light-transmitting channel is substantially circular.
39. A mirror assembly as in claim 29, wherein the controller does not immediately deactivate the at least one light source after the presence of the user prior to the mirror assembly is no longer detected.
40. A mirror assembly, comprising:
a mirror;
at least one light source disposed at a periphery of the mirror to emit light;
a light delivery channel configured to receive light from the at least one light source and deliver the light at a substantially smooth or substantially uniform intensity along a perimeter of the mirror;
a sensor configured to detect the presence of a user in front of the mirror assembly;
a reflective surface disposed along the light transmitting channel; and
a controller in electrical communication with the sensor,
wherein the controller activates the at least one light source to illuminate a user when the sensor detects the presence of a user in front of a mirror assembly;
wherein the controller gradually increases the level of light emitted from the at least one light source after activating the at least one light source.
41. A mirror assembly as in claim 40, wherein the controller gradually decreases the level of light emitted from the at least one light source after deactivating the at least one light source.
42. The mirror assembly of claim 40, wherein the controller reduces the amount of light emitted from the at least one light source for a predetermined amount of time when the presence of the user in front of the mirror assembly is no longer detected, and wherein the controller deactivates the at least one light source after the predetermined amount of time.
43. A mirror assembly, comprising:
a mirror;
at least one light source disposed at a periphery of the mirror to emit light;
a light delivery channel configured to receive light from the at least one light source and deliver the light at a substantially smooth or substantially uniform intensity along a perimeter of the mirror;
a sensor configured to detect background light;
a reflective surface disposed along the light transmitting channel; and
a controller configured to activate the at least one light source and deactivate the at least one light source,
wherein the brightness of the emitted light is influenced by the level of the detected background light, an
Wherein the controller causes light emitted from the at least one light source to be emitted at a first emission brightness level when the background light is at a first background light brightness level, and causes light emitted from the at least one light source to be emitted at a second emission brightness level brighter than the first emission brightness level when the background light is at a second background light brightness level.
44. A mirror assembly as in claim 43, wherein the controller reduces the amount of light emitted from the at least one light source for a predetermined amount of time prior to deactivating the at least one light source.
Technical Field
The present invention relates to reflective devices, such as mirrors.
Background
A cosmetic mirror is a mirror that is typically used to reflect images of a user during personal decoration, grooming, cosmetic care, and the like. Commercially available vanity mirrors have different configurations such as a stand-alone mirror, a hand held mirror, a mirror attached to a vanity table, a bathroom wall mirror, an automotive mirror and/or a mirror attached to or manufactured from an electronic display screen or electronic device.
Many cosmetic mirrors distort the reflected image, for example, due to poor reflective surfaces, poor light sources, and/or uneven distribution of light. In addition, the light sources of conventional vanity mirrors are often energy inefficient. Furthermore, the light source of conventional vanity mirrors is not adjustable or difficult to effectively adjust.
Brief description of the invention
In some embodiments, a mirror assembly includes a substrate, a reflective surface coupled to the substrate, a sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor or a reflective sensor), an electronic processor, and a light source. In some devices, the sensor is configured to detect and generate a signal indicative of the distance between the object and the sensor. The electronic processor can be configured to receive a signal from the sensor and can control the light source in dependence on the distance between the detected object and the sensor, for example by varying the amount or quality of light emitted by the light source.
In some embodiments, a mirror assembly includes a substrate, a reflective surface, one or more light sources, and a light transmission channel, such as a light pipe. In combination, the light source and light pipe reflect substantially constant light along the length of the light pipe. For example, in some embodiments, the light-transmitting channel is generally disposed around some, substantially all, or all of the edge of the reflective surface.
Aspects of the present invention relate to a mirror assembly that may include a mirror coupled to a housing portion and a light source disposed about a perimeter of the mirror. The mirror assembly may include a light channel, such as a light pipe, having a length and disposed about at least a portion of the perimeter of the mirror. The mirror assembly may include a light scattering region, such as a light scattering member disposed along the length of the light pipe. The light scattering features may have a pattern density that varies at least partially depending on the distance from the light source along the light channel. The light scattering member is configured such that a portion of the light impinging on the light scattering member exits the light tunnel along a desired portion of the length of the light tunnel. The number of light scattering features on the light tunnel may vary depending at least in part on the distance from the light source along the light tunnel. In some embodiments, the pattern density is less dense in regions generally proximate to the light source and denser in regions spaced from or generally opposite the light source along the perimeter of the mirror, thereby scattering light to a greater extent as the light intensity decreases away from the light source and causing a substantially constant amount of light to be emitted along the length of the light pipe.
Any of the features, structures, steps, and processes of the cosmetic mirror disclosed in this specification are included in any of the embodiments. The light scattering member in a region substantially close to the light source is smaller than the light scattering member in a region spaced apart from, or substantially opposite, or substantially furthest from the light source. The light source may be disposed near an upper portion of the mirror. The light pipe may be disposed along substantially all of the perimeter of the mirror. The light source may emit light in a direction substantially perpendicular to a normal viewing direction of the mirror. The light pipe is generally circular and includes a first end and a second end. A light source may emit light into the first end and another light source may emit light into the second end. In some embodiments, the light scattering features are substantially uniformly distributed along at least a portion of the light pipe.
Some aspects of the invention relate to a mirror assembly that includes a mirror coupled to a housing portion and one or more light sources disposed about a perimeter of the mirror. The one or more light sources may be configured to emit light in a direction substantially perpendicular to a primary viewing direction of the mirror. The light pipe may have a length and be capable of being disposed along the perimeter of substantially all of the mirrors. The light pipe is configured to receive light from the one or more light sources and to distribute the light substantially continuously along the length, thereby providing a substantially constant amount of illumination to the perimeter of the mirror.
All of the features, structures, steps or processes of the cosmetic mirror disclosed herein can be included in any embodiment. The one or more light sources may include a first light source configured to emit light in a first direction about the perimeter of the mirror and a second light source configured to emit light in a second direction about the perimeter of the mirror. The one or more light sources may be two light sources. Each light source may use less than or equal to about three watts of power. The one or more light sources may have a color rendering index of at least about 90. The one or more light sources may comprise light emitting diodes. The light pipe may be configured to emit at least about 95% of the light emitted by the one or more light sources.
Certain aspects of the present invention relate to methods of manufacturing mirror assemblies, such as any of the mirror assemblies disclosed in this specification. The method may include coupling the mirror to the housing portion. The method may include positioning a light source at a periphery of the mirror. The method may include disposing a light pipe around at least a portion of the perimeter of the mirror. The method may include providing a plurality of light scattering features along the length of the light pipe. In some embodiments, the plurality of light scattering members may have a pattern density. The light scattering member may be configured such that a portion of the light impinging on the light scattering member is emitted from the light pipe. The pattern density is less dense in the region generally proximate the light source and more dense in the region generally opposite, or spaced from, or furthest from the light source along the perimeter of the mirror, thereby causing a substantially constant amount of light to be emitted along the length of the light pipe. In some embodiments, the method may include positioning a light source near an upper portion of the mirror. In some embodiments, the method may include disposing a light pipe around substantially all of the perimeter of the mirror. In some embodiments, the method may comprise arranging the light source to emit light in a direction substantially perpendicular to a main viewing direction of the mirror. In some embodiments, the method can include positioning a light source to emit light into the first end of the light pipe and positioning another light source to emit light into the second end of the light pipe. In some embodiments, the method can include disposing the light scattering features along at least a portion of the light pipe in a substantially uniform pattern.
Some aspects of the invention relate to a mirror assembly having a housing, a mirror, one or more light sources, a proximity sensor, and an electronic processor. The mirror may be coupled to the housing. One or more light sources may be disposed at the periphery of the mirror. The proximity sensor may be configured to detect objects within a sensing region. The proximity sensor may be configured to generate a signal indicative of a distance between the object and the proximity sensor. The electronic processor may be configured to signal the one or more light sources for emitting a quantity of light that varies depending on the distance between the object and the sensor.
All of the features, structures, steps or processes of the cosmetic mirror disclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. The proximity sensor may be disposed generally near a top area of the mirror. The electronic processor may be configured to generate an electronic signal to the one or more light sources to deactivate if the proximity sensor does not detect the presence and/or movement of an object for a predetermined time. The proximity sensor may be configured to increase in sensitivity (e.g., by increasing the trigger zone distance, by increasing the sensitivity of motion within the trigger zone, and/or by increasing the period of time until deactivated) after the proximity sensor detects the object. The mirror assembly may include a backlight sensor configured to detect an amount of backlight. In some embodiments, the sensing region may extend about 0 degrees to about 45 degrees downward relative to an axis extending from the proximity sensor. The proximity sensor may be disposed obliquely to the viewing surface of the mirror. The mirror assembly may include a lens cover disposed proximate the proximity sensor. In some embodiments, the front face of the lens cover may be disposed obliquely to the proximity sensor. The mirror assembly may include a light pipe having a length and disposed along substantially all of the perimeter of the mirror. The light pipe may be configured to receive light from one or more light sources and distribute the light substantially continuously along the length, thus providing a substantially constant amount of illumination to the perimeter of the mirror.
Some aspects of the present invention relate to methods of manufacturing mirror assemblies. The method includes coupling a mirror to the housing portion. The method may include positioning one or more light sources at a perimeter of the mirror. The method may include configuring the proximity sensor to generate a signal indicative of a distance between the object and the proximity sensor. The method may include configuring the electronic processor to generate electronic signals to the one or more light sources to emit an amount of light that varies depending on a distance between the object and the sensor.
All of the features, structures, steps or processes of the cosmetic mirror disclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. The method of manufacturing a mirror assembly may include positioning the proximity sensor substantially near a top area of the mirror. The method may include configuring the electronic processor to generate an electronic signal to the one or more light sources to deactivate if the proximity sensor does not detect an object for a predetermined time. The method includes configuring the proximity sensor to increase sensitivity after the proximity sensor detects the object. The method may include configuring the backlight sensor to detect an amount of backlight. The method may include configuring the proximity sensor to sense objects within a sensing region that extends about 0 degrees to about 45 degrees downward relative to an axial direction of extension of the proximity sensor. The method may include disposing the proximity sensor oblique to the viewing surface of the mirror. The method may include disposing a lens cover adjacent the proximity sensor. In some embodiments, the method includes positioning a front face of the lens cover oblique to the proximity sensor. The method may include disposing the light pipe along substantially all of the perimeter of the mirror. The light pipe may be configured to receive light from one or more light sources and distribute the light substantially continuously along the length, thus providing a substantially constant amount of illumination to the perimeter of the mirror.
For purposes of summarizing the description, certain aspects, advantages and features of the invention have been set forth herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily any or all of the advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the invention disclosed herein. No aspect of the invention is essential or required.
Drawings
The above and other features of the mirror assemblies disclosed herein are described below with reference to the drawings of some embodiments. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit the invention. The drawings include the following figures:
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a mirror assembly.
Fig. 2 illustrates a front view of the embodiment of fig. 1.
Fig. 3 and 4 illustrate side views of the embodiment of fig. 1.
Fig. 5 illustrates a top view of the embodiment of fig. 1.
Fig. 6 illustrates a bottom view of the embodiment of fig. 1.
Fig. 7 illustrates a rear view of the embodiment of fig. 1.
Fig. 8A illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a mirror assembly.
Fig. 8B illustrates an exploded view of another embodiment of a mirror assembly.
FIG. 9 illustrates an enlarged view of the embodiment of FIG. 8A showing the sensor assembly.
FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of the embodiment of FIG. 8B showing the back of the sensor assembly.
Fig. 11 illustrates the optical transmission channel of the embodiment shown in fig. 1.
Fig. 11A-11B illustrate enlarged views of the portion of the light transmission channel shown in fig. 11.
Fig. 12 illustrates an enlarged view of the embodiment of fig. 1 showing a partially exploded view of the base portion.
FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of an embodiment of an algorithm executed by portions of the mirror assembly of FIG. 1.
Detailed Description
Certain embodiments of mirror assemblies are disclosed in the context of portable, stand-alone vanity mirrors, as are particularly useful in this context. However, the various aspects of the present description may be used in many other situations, such as wall-mounted mirrors, furniture-mounted mirrors, automotive vanity mirrors (e.g., mirrors located in sun visors), and so forth. None of the features described herein are essential or removable (indesipendable). Any feature, structure, or step disclosed herein may be replaced by, or combined with, any other feature, structure, or step disclosed or omitted herein.
As shown in fig. 1-7, mirror assembly 2 includes a housing 8 and a visual image reflective surface, such as mirror 4. Shell portion 8 includes a
Mirror assembly 2 may include one or more of the components described in connection with fig. 8A and 8B. Fig. 8B illustrates a mirror assembly 102 that includes many similar components to those of mirror assembly 2. Similar components include similar reference numerals denoted by 100 (e.g., mirror 4 is similar to mirror 104).
The mirror 4 comprises a substantially plane or spherical surface, which may be convex or concave. The radius of curvature depends on the required light intensity. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature may be at least about 15 inches and/or less than or equal to about 30 inches. The focal length is half the radius of curvature. For example, the focal length is at least about 7.5 inches and/or less than or equal to about 15 inches. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature may be at least about 18 inches and/or less than or equal to about 24 inches. In some embodiments, mirror 4 may include a radius of curvature of about 20 inches and a focal length of about 10 inches. In some embodiments, mirror 4 is aspheric, which may be advantageous for custom focus.
In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the mirror 4 is controlled so that the magnification (light intensity) of the object is magnified by at least about 2 times and/or less than or equal to about 7 times. In some embodiments, the magnification of the object is about 5 times. In some embodiments, the mirror may have a radius of curvature of about 19 inches and/or about 7 times larger. In some embodiments, the mirror may have a radius of curvature of about 24 inches and/or about 5 times larger.
As shown in fig. 8A, the mirror 4 has a substantially annular shape. In other embodiments, the mirror 4 may have a generally oval overall shape, a generally square, rectangular, or any other shape. In some embodiments, the mirror 4 may have a diameter of at least about 8 inches and/or less than or equal to about 12 inches. In some embodiments, the mirror 4 may have a diameter of about 8 inches. In certain embodiments, the mirror 4 may have a diameter of at least about 12 inches and/or less than or equal to about 16 inches. In some embodiments, the mirror 4 may include a thickness of at least about 2 millimeters and/or less than or equal to about 3 millimeters. In some embodiments, the thickness is less than or equal to about two millimeters and/or greater than or equal to about 3 millimeters, depending on the desired properties of the mirror 4 (e.g., reduced weight or greater strength (strength)). In some embodiments, the surface area of the mirror 4 is substantially larger than the surface area of the
The mirror 4 may be highly reflective (e.g., having a reflectivity of at least about 90%). In some embodiments, the mirror 4 has a reflectivity greater than about 70% and/or a reflectivity less than or equal to about 90%. In other embodiments, the mirror 4 has a reflectivity of at least about 80% and/or a reflectivity of less than or equal to about 100%. In some embodiments, the mirror has a reflectivity of about 87%. The mirror 4 may be cut or milled out of a larger mirror blank so that distortion of the mirror edges is reduced or eliminated. One or more filters may be provided on the mirror to adjust one or more parameters of the reflected light. In some embodiments, the filter includes a film and/or coating that absorbs or enhances the reflectivity of certain bandwidths of electromagnetic energy. In some embodiments, one or more color tunable filters, such as Makrolon filters, may be applied to the mirror to attenuate desired wavelengths of light in the visible spectrum.
The mirror 4 may be highly transmissive (e.g., almost 100% transmissive). In some embodiments, the transmission may be at least about 90%. In some embodiments, the transmission may be at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the transmission may be at least about 99%. The mirror 4 may be of optical grade and/or comprise glass. For example, the mirror 4 may comprise extremely clear glass. Alternatively, the mirror 4 may comprise other translucent materials, such as plastic, nylon, acrylic, or other suitable materials. The mirror 4 may also comprise a back surface comprising aluminium or silver. In some embodiments, the back surface may impart a slight tint to the (indicia) mirror, such as a slight bluish tint. In some embodiments, the aluminum backing may prevent rust and provide a smooth color tone. The mirror 4 may be manufactured using molding, machining, grinding, polishing, or other techniques.
The mirror assembly 2 may include one or more light sources 30 configured to transmit light. For example, as shown in fig. 9, the mirror assembly may include a plurality (e.g., two) of light sources 30. A wide variety of light sources 30 may be used. For example, the light source 30 may include a Light Emitting Diode (LED), a fluorescent light source, an incandescent light source, a halogen light source, or others. In some embodiments, each light source 30 consumes at least about 2 watts of energy and/or less than or equal to about 3 watts of energy. In some embodiments, each light source 30 consumes about 2 watts of energy.
In some embodiments, the width of each light source may be less than or equal to about 10.0 millimeters. In some embodiments, the width of each light source may be less than or equal to about 6.5 millimeters. In some embodiments, the width of each light source may be less than or equal to about 5.0 millimeters. In some embodiments, the width of each light source may be about 4.0 millimeters.
The light source 30 may be used to simulate or closely approximate natural light having a substantially full spectrum in the viewable area. In some embodiments, the light source 30 has a color temperature of greater than or equal to about 4500K and/or less than or equal to about 6500K. In some embodiments, the color temperature of the light source 30 is at least about 5500K and/or less than or equal to about 6000K. In some embodiments, the color temperature of the light source 30 is about 5700K.
In some embodiments, the light source 30 has a color rendering index of at least about 70 and/or less than or equal to about 90. Certain embodiments of the one or more light sources 30 have a Color Rendering Index (CRI) of at least about 80 and/or less than or equal to about 100. In some embodiments, the color rendering index is high, at least about 87 and/or less than or equal to about 92. In some embodiments, the color rendering index is at least about 90. In some embodiments, the color rendering index may be about 85.
In some embodiments, the luminous flux may be at least about 80lm and/or less than or equal to about 110 lm. In some embodiments, the luminous flux may be at least about 90lm and/or less than or equal to about 100 lm. In some embodiments, the luminous flux may be about 95 lm.
In some embodiments, the forward voltage of each light source may be at least about 2.4V and/or less than or equal to about 3.6V. In some embodiments, the forward voltage may be at least about 2.8V and/or less than or equal to about 3.2V. In some embodiments, the forward voltage is about 3.0V.
In some embodiments, the illumination level of the outer circumference of the sensing region is at least about 500 lux and/or less than or equal to about 1000 lux. The illumination level may be higher at distances close to the mirror surface. In some embodiments, the illumination level of the outer circumference of the sensing region is about 700 lux. In some embodiments, the illumination level of the outer circumference of the sensing region is about 600 lux. In some embodiments, the sensing region extends a distance of about 8 inches from the surface of the mirror. Many other sensing regions may also be utilized, some of which are described below. In some variations, mirror assembly 2 may include a dimmer to adjust the intensity of the light.
In some embodiments, the light source 30 is configured to provide light of multiple colors and/or to provide light of varying colors. For example, the light source 30 may provide light of two or more identifiable colors, such as red and yellow light, or a range of colors (e.g., red, green, blue, violet, orange, yellow, and others). In some embodiments, the light source 30 is configured to change color or present light when a condition is encountered or is about to be encountered. For example, some embodiments temporarily change the color of the emitted light to inform the user that the light will return to the inactive state.
As shown in fig. 9, the light source may be located near the most important area of the mirror assembly 2. In other embodiments, the light source 30 is located in other parts of the mirror assembly 2, for example, within the light pipe 10, or is mounted directly to the mirror 4 at spaced intervals around the periphery of the mirror 4. For example, the light source 30 may be disposed along a portion, substantially all, or all of the mirror 4. In some embodiments, light source 30 is separate from and not connected to mirror assembly 2.
The light sources 30 may be arranged in different orientations relative to each other, e.g., side-by-side, back-to-back, or otherwise. In some embodiments, the light sources 30 may be arranged to emit light in opposite directions. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the first light source 30a emits light in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) around the mirror 4, and the second light source 30b emits light in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) around the mirror 4. In some embodiments, the light source 30 may be positioned to emit light substantially normal to the visible surface of the mirror assembly 2. In some embodiments, the light source 30 may be arranged to emit light tangentially to the edge of the mirror 4.
Mirror assembly 2 may include a mechanism to actively or passively dissipate, transfer, or radiate heat from light source 30, such as a fan, vent, and/or one or more passive heat dissipating or radiating structures 34. The
The heat dissipating structure 34 may dissipate heat generated by the light source 30 and/or conduct electricity to the light source. The heat dissipation structure 34, which dissipates heat and conducts electricity to the light source 30, reduces the total number of necessary components. In some embodiments, as shown, the heat dissipating structure 34 may include one or more components that are generally longer in one dimension, generally wider in another dimension, and generally narrower in another dimension, provided in a thin face with a large surface area to efficiently transfer heat through the heat dissipating structure 34 and then easily transfer the heat to the surrounding air and away from the heat sensitive electronic elements in the mirror assembly. For example, the length of the heat dissipation structure 34 may be much greater than the width of the heat dissipation structure 34, and the width of the heat dissipation structure 34 may be much greater than the thickness.
The heat dissipating structure 34 may be an electrically connected circuit board and/or provide power and signals, either directly or indirectly, to the light source 30 attached thereto. In some embodiments, the temperature of the light source 30 with the heat dissipating structure 34 is less than or equal to about 70 ° f. In some embodiments, the temperature of the light source 30 with the heat dissipating structure 34 is between about 50 ° f and 60 ° f.
As shown in fig. 8A, the heat dissipating structure 34 may be a separate structure including a support panel 34c, the support panel 34c being positioned substantially parallel to the mirror 4. In some embodiments, the support panel 34c is a circuit board. The heat dissipating structure 34 may also include one or more fins mounted to the support panel 34 c. As shown in fig. 8A, the heat dissipating structure 34 may include two fins 34a, 34 b. The fins 34a, 34b may be located between the support panel 34c and the mirror 4. Fins 34a, 34b may also be positioned such that a first end of each fin 34a ', 34 b' is closer together (e.g., V-shaped) than a second end of fin 34a ", 34 b". The fins 34a, 34b may be directly or indirectly connected to the light source 30. For example, each fin 34a, 34b may house a light source 30.
As shown in fig. 8B, the
Fig. 10 shows the rear side of the mirror assembly 102 without the rear cover portion 118. The second end of each
The
Some or all of the light emitted by the light source 30 may generally be transmitted toward, or into, the light pipe 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the light pipe 10 may include ends 40a, 40b, and the light source 30 may emit light into one or both of the ends 40a, 40b of the light pipe 10. The light source 30 may be positioned such that light is emitted generally toward a user facing surface of the mirror assembly 2. For example, some or all of the light from the light source 30 and/or the light pipe 10 may be directed to and reflected from other components before contacting the user. In some embodiments, the light source 30 is placed behind the mirror 4 (e.g., creating a backlighting effect for the mirror 4). In some embodiments, the light source 30 is positioned (e.g., by tilting) such that light emitted from the light source 30 contacts a visible surface of the mirror assembly 2 at an angle, such as an acute angle. In some embodiments, the light source 30 is positioned such that light emitted from the light source 30 contacts the visible surface of the mirror assembly 2 at an obtuse angle.
When mounted to the
As shown in fig. 8A, the light pipe 10 may be substantially circular in shape. The light pipe 10 may include a notch 44 and the sensor device 28 and/or the light source 30 may be located at the notch 44. In some embodiments, the light pipe 10 may be substantially linear in shape, or the light pipe 10 may have a non-linear and non-circular shape. The light pipe 10 may comprise acrylic, polycarbonate or any other transparent or high transmission material. The light pipe 10 may be at least somewhat opaque.
Light may be emitted from the light guide 10 along and through portions of the light guide 10 and/or through an exterior surface 42 of the light guide 10. In some embodiments, the light pipe 10 is configured to transmit at least about 95% of the light emitted from the light source 30. The light source 30 is configured to emit light generally along the edge of the mirror 4 in conjunction with the light pipe 10. The light pipe 10 may be configured to scatter light from the light source 30 through the light pipe 10. The light source 30 and the light pipe 10 are configured such that the amount of light emitted from the exterior surface 42 is substantially constant along the length of the light pipe 10. A substantially constant intensity of light being conveyed along the light guide 10 may be achieved in many different ways.
The
The light guide 10 may comprise a substantially translucent material having varying degrees of scattering such that a minimum amount of scattering occurs in the region near the light source and a maximum amount of scattering occurs in the region of the light guide 10 furthest from the light source. Light pipe 10 may include regions configured to diverge light in different ways. In some embodiments, the light delivery channel or light pipe 10 may include a variety of non-constant, non-smooth front, back, and/or interior surfaces formed by any suitable process, such as molding, etching, roughening paint, coating, and/or other methods. In some embodiments, the one or more surface irregularities may be very small protrusions, projections, and/or indentations.
In some embodiments, light passing through the light pipe 10 may scatter at a number of different intensity levels, depending on the location of the light within the light pipe 10. For example, light at a first location on the light pipe 10 may be scattered at a first intensity level, light at a second location on the light pipe 10 may be scattered at a second intensity level, light at a third location on the light pipe 10 may be scattered at a third intensity level, the third intensity level exceeding the second intensity level, and the second intensity level exceeding the first intensity level, and so on. Many other levels of scattering and many ways of spatially increasing or decreasing scattering may be used instead of or in addition to providing a large number of scattering elements, such as spatially varying the die level or the delustering effect within the material of the light guide 10, or by spatially varying the embedding of scattering particles within the material, or by spatially varying the surface pattern on one or more of the outer surfaces of the material.
The light pipe 10 may include a surface pattern such as a light scattering element 74 (e.g., a dot pattern) as shown in fig. 11. The
As shown in fig. 11, the
The light scattering elements may be dispersed in an irregular pattern such that the light scattering pattern in the first region is different from the light scattering pattern in the second region. A distance between the first light scattering element and the second light scattering element may be different from a distance between the first light scattering element and the third light scattering element.
The size (e.g., diameter) of the light scattering element can vary. In some variations, light scattering elements near the light source 30 may have smaller dimensions when compared to light scattering elements further away from the light source 30. For example, the light scattering element may comprise a smaller diameter near the light source 30 and become progressively larger depending on the distance of the light source 30. Such a configuration allows for substantially smooth reflection of light to the outer surface 42. In certain embodiments, each light scattering element has a diameter of less than or equal to about 1 millimeter. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements each have a diameter of greater than or equal to about 1 millimeter.
In some embodiments, the light scattering elements may be substantially round. In some embodiments, the light scattering element has other shapes, such as substantially square, substantially rectangular, substantially pentagonal, substantially hexagonal, substantially octagonal, substantially elliptical, and the like. In some embodiments, this pattern in the light pipe 10 is a series of straight lines, curves, spirals, or any other pattern. In some embodiments, the light scattering element is white. The light scattering element may scatter so that the light guide 10 appears matt. In some embodiments, the light scattering element is not readily visible to a user. For example, the light pipe 10 may be slightly opaque to hide the appearance of the surface pattern. In some embodiments, where the light scattering element is visible to the user, light pipe 10 may be a substantially color or pattern of clear display surface elements.
The light pipe 10 may comprise a reflective material to achieve high reflectivity. For example, the light pipe 10 may include a reflective substrate along the back side of the light pipe. In some embodiments, the reflective material can reflect at least about 95% of the light. In some embodiments, the reflective material reflects about 98% of the light. The reflective material may be optically reflective paper.
As shown in fig. 8B, mirror assembly 102 may also include a diffuser 156. The diffuser 156 may be located on the surface of the light pipe 110 and/or along the edge of the mirror 104. For example, the diffuser 156 may be positioned between the light pipe 10 and the user to provide a diffusely reflective, diffuse light source, rather than a concentrated, intense light source that would cause less comfort to the user's eyes. In some embodiments, the transmittance of the diffuser is substantially constant along its perimeter or circumference. In some embodiments, the diffuser 156 may surround a majority of the edge of the mirror 104, substantially the entire edge of the mirror or the entire edge of the mirror. As shown in fig. 8B, the diffuser 156 may surround the same portion of the edge of the mirror 104 as it does around the light pipe 110. The diffuser 156 may also include an opening 160 for the
The diffuser 156 may include irregular front and/or rear surfaces formed by etching, roughening, painting, and/or other surface modification methods. For example, the diffuser 156 may include a pattern (pattern) of light scattering elements (not shown) created using any of the methods discussed herein. The light scattering element may be modified to include any shape and/or size associated with the light pipe 10 in question.
The light scattering element may be configured to produce soft light by scattering light more. For example, the light scattering element may comprise a plurality of dots having the same diameter or different diameters. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements may be dispersed uniformly through the diffuser 156. In other embodiments, the light scattering elements may be randomly dispersed through the diffuser 156.
Returning to fig. 8A, the cover element 6 may cover the sensor device 28 and the light source 30. The cover element 6 may be clear and polished acrylic, polycarbonate or any other suitable material. On the rear side, the housing portion 8 may include a
As previously described, the
The
To adjust the height of the mirror assembly 2, the
The
In some embodiments, the first shaft portion 12a and the second shaft portion 12b may form an interference fit. This applied pressure allows the first and second shaft portions 12a and 12b to be stably coupled relative to each other (e.g., to support the
The
In some embodiments, the
As shown in fig. 8B, the shaft portion 112 may include one or more biasing members 154, such as springs (e.g., coil springs, wave springs, conical springs, or others). In certain variations, one or more biasing members 154 are configured to facilitate adjusting the height of the shaft portion 112. For example, the one or more biasing members 154 may reduce the vertical force applied by the user having to lift the height of the mirror 104 relative to the base 114. The biasing member may be located within the lumen of the shaft portion 112.
The
a portion of the
The
In some embodiments, as shown, the
As described in more detail below, the
The mirror assembly 2 may include an indication device configured to provide a visual, audible, or other type of indication to a user of the mirror assembly 2 as to the characteristics of the mirror assembly 2, the user, and/or the relationship between the mirror assembly 2 and the user. For example, the indicator may indicate an on/off state, a battery level, an impending passivation effect, and/or certain operating modes. The indicator may also be used for other purposes.
The color of the indicator light may vary from indication to indication. For example, the indicator may emit a red light when the mirror assembly is turned on and emits a green light and/or when the battery is low.
As shown in FIG. 1, the
The controller 50 controls the operation of the light source 30. The controller 50 may be disposed in the
The mirror assembly 2 may include a sensor arrangement 28 as shown in fig. 2 and 9. The sensor device 28 may be located near the upper region of the mirror assembly 2 (e.g., the top of the mirror). For example, the sensor device 28 may be located at a notch 44 in the light pipe 10. The sensor means 28 may also be recessed from the front surface of the mirror assembly 2. Alternatively, the sensor device 28 may be mounted along any other portion of the mirror assembly 2 or not located on the mirror assembly 2. For example, the sensor device 28 may be located anywhere in the room in which the mirror assembly 2 is located. The sensor means 28 may comprise a proximity sensor or a sensor of the reflective type. For example, the sensor 28 may be triggered when an object (e.g., a body part) enters, and/or generates motion in, the sensing region.
The sensor device 28 may include a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter 36 may be a transmitting portion (e.g., electromagnetic energy such as infrared light) and the receiver 38 may be a receiving portion (e.g., electromagnetic energy such as infrared light). The light beam emitted from the light emitting section 36 can determine the sensing area. In certain variations, the transmitter may emit other types of energy, such as sound waves, radio waves, or any other signal. The transmitter and receiver may be integrated into the same sensor or configured as separate elements.
In some embodiments, light emitting portion 36 may emit light in a substantially vertical direction from the front of the mirror assembly. In some embodiments, light emitting portion 36 emits light at an angle of at least about 5 degrees and/or less than or equal to about 45 degrees downward from perpendicular to the surface of the mirror assembly. In some embodiments, light emitting portion 36 emits light at an angle of at least about 15 degrees and/or less than or equal to about 60 degrees downward from perpendicular to the surface of the mirror assembly. In some embodiments, light emitting section 36 emits light at a downward angle of about 15 degrees.
In some embodiments, the sensor device 28 may detect objects within the sensing region. In some embodiments, the sensing region may range from at least about 0 degrees downward to less than or equal to about 45 degrees downward relative to an axis extending from the sensor arrangement 28, and/or relative to a line extending generally perpendicular to the front surface of the sensor arrangement and generally outward from the top of the mirror assembly toward the user. In some embodiments, the sensing region may range from at least about 0 degrees to less than or equal to about 25 degrees downward relative to any other axis or line. In some embodiments, the sensing region may range from at least about 0 degrees to less than or equal to about 15 degrees downward relative to any other axis or line.
In some embodiments, the sensing region may be adjusted by mounting the sensor device 28 at an angle. In some embodiments, the sensor device 28 may be mounted such that the front surface of the sensor device 28 may be substantially parallel or coplanar with the front surface of the mirror 4. In some embodiments, the sensor device 28 may be mounted such that the front surface of the sensor device 28 is angled relative to the front surface of the mirror.
In some embodiments, the sensing area may be adjusted by modifying one or more components of the cover element 6. In some embodiments, the cover element 6 may comprise a lens material. In certain embodiments, the cover element 6 may comprise a substantially rectangular cross-section. In certain embodiments, the cover element 6 may comprise a generally triangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the cover element 6 may include a front surface that is substantially parallel or coplanar with the front surface of the mirror 4. In certain embodiments, the cover element 6 includes a front surface that is angled relative to the front surface of the mirror 4. In some embodiments, the front surface of the cover element 6 may be disposed at an angle relative to the sensor device 28.
In some embodiments, the sensing region generally widens as the front surface of the cover element 6, moving from a configuration that is substantially parallel or coplanar with the front surface of the mirror 4 to a configuration that is angled with respect to the front surface of the mirror 4. In certain embodiments, when the front surface of the cover element 6 is substantially parallel or co-planar with the front surface of the mirror, the sensing region may have a range of about 0 degrees to about 15 degrees below an axial direction extending from the sensor device 28 and/or substantially perpendicular to the front surface of the sensor device. In certain embodiments, when the front surface of the cover element 6 is angled relative to the front surface of the mirror 4, the sensing region may have a range of about 0 degrees to about 25 degrees downward relative to an axis extending from the sensor device 28 and/or generally perpendicular to the front surface of the sensor device.
The sensor device 28 may only require sufficient power to produce a low power beam, which may or may not be visible to the human eye. In addition, the sensor device 28 may operate in a pulsating manner. For example, the light emitting section 36 may be turned on and off at any desired frequency (e.g., once every half second, once every 10 seconds) in one cycle, for example, for short pulses for any desired time (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.01 seconds, less than or equal to about 0.1 seconds, or less than or equal to about 1 second). Cycling can greatly reduce the power required to power the sensor device 28. In operation, cycling does not degrade performance in some embodiments, as the user generally remains in the path of the light pillar long enough for detection signal generation.
If the receiving portion 38 detects a reflection (e.g., above a threshold) from an object within the beam emitted by the light emitting portion 36, the sensor device 28 sends a signal to the controller to activate the light source.
The sensor device 28 may send different signals to the controller 50 depending on the amount of light reflected back to the receiver 38. For example, the sensor arrangement 28 is configured such that the amount of light emitted from the light source 30 is proportional to the amount of light reflected, which may be indicative of the distance between the mirror 4 and the user. In certain variations, if the user is in the first sensing region, then the controller controls the one or more light sources 30 to activate from an off state, or emit a first amount of light. If the user is in a second sensing region (e.g., farther from the sensor device 28 than the first sensing region), then the controller controls the one or more light sources 30 to emit a second amount of light (e.g., less than the first amount of light).
The controller 50 may trigger at least two different levels of brightness, such as bright or dim, from the light source 30. For example, if the user is anywhere in the first sensing region, a controller 50 signal for bright light is emitted; if the user is anywhere in the second sensing region, a controller 50 signal for a dim light is emitted.
The controller 50 may also trigger more than two brightness levels. In some implementations, the level of illumination is related to the distance from the sensor to the user (e.g., linearly, exponentially, or otherwise). For example, as the user approaches the sensor device 28, the one or more light sources 30 emit more light. Alternatively, the mirror assembly 2 may be configured to emit more light when the user is farther from the sensor arrangement 28 and less light as the user moves closer to the sensor arrangement 28.
The sensor device 28 may include two light emitting portions 36a and 36 b. Each emitter 36a, 36b emits cone-shaped light with appropriate shielding or guidance on emitters 36a and 36b, which determines the detection area of the sensor (subject to the nominal range of sensor 28). The area where the two cones overlap forms the primary sensing area, while the two cones emit light but do not overlap to form a secondary sensing area. If a user has been found in the primary sensing area, the sensor device 28 sends an appropriate signal to the controller 50 which triggers a first level of light from the light source 30. If a user has been found in the secondary sensing zone, the sensor arrangement 28 sends a suitable signal to the controller 50 activating a second level of light from the light source 30. In some embodiments, the first level of light is brighter than the second level of light. In other embodiments, the second level of light is brighter than the first level of light. In some embodiments, the sensor device 28 defines more than two sensing regions and triggers more than two levels of light.
As shown in fig. 9, the light emitting portions 36 may be disposed substantially along the same horizontal plane (e.g., with respect to the ground). The sensor device 28 may send an appropriate signal to the controller 50 which may trigger a bright light directly in front of the sensor device 28 when the user is within the first sensing region. When the user is within the second sensing region, the sensor device may trigger a dim light at the edge of the mirror assembly 2.
The sensor device 28 may include two or more light emitting portions 36 that do not form an overlapping detection cone within the nominal range of action of the sensor 28. The first cone of light defines a first sensing area and the second cone of light defines a second sensing area. If the user is found to be in the first sensing region alone or in the second sensing region alone, the sensor arrangement 28 signals the controller 50 that a signal activates the first level of light from the light source 30. In some variations, if it has been found that the user is in both the first and second sensing regions, the sensor arrangement 28 sends a signal to the controller 50 to activate a second level of light from the light source 30. In some embodiments, the first level of light is brighter than the second level of light. In other embodiments, the second level of light is brighter than the first level of light.
Activation of the light source 30 or adjusting the amount of light emitted from the light source 30 may be based on factors other than the presence of a user within a sensing area. For example, the amount of light emitted from the light source 30 may be adjusted based on the detection area of the sensor 28 and the movement within a nominal range. Some embodiments are configured such that if the user lifts his/her hand in an upward motion, the controller signals an increase in the amount of light, and if the user lowers his/her hand in a downward motion, the controller signals a decrease in the amount of light.
Once the light source 30 is activated, the light source 30 may remain activated as long as the sensor device 28 detects an object in the sensing region. Alternatively, the light source 30 remains activated for a predetermined period of time. For example, activating the light source 30 may preset a timer. If the sensor arrangement 28 does not detect an object before the timer expires, the light source 30 reverts to the inactive state. If the sensor device 28 detects an object before the timer expires, the controller 50 restarts the timer, either immediately or after the time has expired.
The one or more sensing regions are used in any type of configuration that allows a user to control an aspect of the operation of the mirror assembly 2. For example, one or more sensing zones may be used to trigger the mirror assembly 2 to emit different levels of light, operate for different durations, rotate the mirror, or any other suitable parameter.
In various embodiments, mirror assembly 2 has one or more modes of operation, for example, an on mode and an off mode. The controller 50 may activate different modes based on signals received from different sensing regions, motion, or any other parameter. Any of the means described below may be used separately or in combination with each other.
The mirror assembly 2 may include a task mode. When the task mode is active, the mirror assembly 2 may trigger the light source 30 to remain active or cause the sensor to enter a super mode (e.g., during which the sensor is configured to have increased motion sensitivity over an area, or have a greater or broader sensitivity area, or have some other increased sensitivity signal detection) for a predetermined period of time. For example, in some embodiments, this task mode may be particularly useful when the user plans to use the mirror assembly 2 for an extended period of time, particularly if the user's position is still substantially in the extended period of time, so as to avoid intermittent loss of illumination while the user is still looking at the mirror. Such a task mode may trigger the light source 30 to remain activated for a predetermined period of time even if the user is not found within the sensing region. The predetermined amount of time may be less than or equal to about: 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or any other suitable time. If the sensor means 28 does not detect a user before the timer expires, the mirror assembly 2 deactivates the mission mode. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 remains in the task mode until the user signals that the light source 30 is deactivated.
Mirror assembly 2 may include an energy saving mode. When the energy saving mode is active, the light source 30 emits less light than if the mirror assembly 2 were not in the energy saving mode. The energy saving mode may be user activated and may be used when the user plans to use the mirror for a relatively long time. Alternatively, mirror assembly 2 automatically enters the energy-saving mode between the on mode and the off mode as a transition. For example, the controller 50 may initialize a timer when the light source 30 is activated. If the sensor device 28 does not detect a user before the timer expires, the controller 50 enters the power saving mode and initializes a second timer. If the sensor arrangement 28 does not detect a user before the second timer expires, the controller 50 switches off the light source 30.
Mirror assembly 2 may include a super mode. As noted above, in some embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 has two light emitting portions 36, each emitting a cone of light. In some implementations, the controller 50 triggers the light source 30 to activate only when the sensor device 28 detects an object in the region where the two cones of light intersect (e.g., the primary sensing region). In some embodiments, mirror assembly 2 enters the super mode after light source 30 has been activated. The controller 50 may keep the light source 30 active as long as the sensor device 2 detects a user in one or both of the cone beams (secondary or primary sensing areas). The secondary sensing region may be different from the primary sensing region. For example, the secondary sensing area may be larger than the primary sensing area. In some embodiments, this allows the user to move and still keep the light source 30 activated. The super mode may also help to conserve energy by preventing accidental activation when the user is near the periphery of the mirror assembly 2.
The mirror assembly 2 may also include the ability to sense background light. For example, when the background light is relatively low, the light emitted by the light source 30 will be brighter than if the background light is relatively bright. The light receiving section 38 may detect the background light and light emitted from the transmitter 36 or the mirror assembly 2 may include a second sensor device for detecting the background light.
The controller 50 may adjust the number of signals necessary to trigger the light source 30 based on the amount of background light detected. For example, the amount of detected light needed to activate the light source 30 may be proportional to the background light. Such a configuration may allow the light source 30 to be activated even when the level of background light is not too great (e.g., in dim bathroom lighting). When the background light is less than or equal to the first level, the controller 50 activates the light source 30 when the first level of the reflected signal is detected. The controller 50 activates the light source 30 when the background light is higher than the first level, and when a second level of the reflected signal is detected (e.g., greater than the first level).
The controller 50 may also adjust the amount of light emitted by the backlight-based light source 30. This configuration may, for example, avoid emitting an initial sudden very bright light that would be uncomfortable for the user's eyes, especially when the user's eyes have previously adapted to a lower light level, such as when the surrounding environment is dim. For example, the amount of light emitted by the light source 30 may be proportional to the amount of background light detected.
The controller 50 may gradually increase the level at which the light source 30 emits light after the light source 30 is activated, and/or gradually decrease the amount of light emitted from the light source 30 after the light source 30 returns to the inactive state. This configuration may avoid discomfort to the user's eyes after the light source 30 is turned on.
Mirror assembly 2 may also include a calibration mode. For example, the calibration mode may verify different sensing regions with different output characteristics according to the user's needs. The algorithm may be configured to perform different functions with multiple sensing regions. For example, a user may configure a first sensing region to correspond with a first level of light (e.g., a lower intensity of light) and a second sensing region to correspond with a second level of light (e.g., a high intensity of light). In another embodiment, the user may adjust the size (e.g., width or height) of the sensing region. The user may specify that the first sensing area corresponds to a first level of light and that the second sensing area corresponds to a second level of light. This calibration mode may be triggered by a user indicator, such as pressing a button, activating a sensor, or any other suitable mechanism.
In some embodiments, the ideal sensing area is designed so that the center of the user's face is centered on the mirror portion, with a suitable vertical distance from the mirror allowing the user to place the user's face generally outside the mirror. The proximity sensor, generally disposed on top of the mirror, may be tilted downward in the horizontal plane (e.g., at least about 10 degrees downward, such as about 15 degrees downward), and the algorithm triggers energy to the mirror when the user's face (or other portion) is found within a predetermined range of a vertical, positive distance from the front of the mirror. For example, in some embodiments, the first area may be in a range of at least about 10 inches and/or less than or equal to 12 inches (e.g., greater than 11 inches) from the front of the mirror, and the second area may be in a range of at least about 7 inches and/or less than or equal to about 9 inches (e.g., about 8 inches) from the front of the mirror.
The algorithm may be configured to send a command to activate the light source 30 based on the detection signal. The algorithm may also be configured to emit different levels of light or to vary the duration. The algorithm may also be configured to send a command to trigger one or more modes, including any of the modes described above. The command may vary depending on the received signal. For example, the signal may depend on the distance between an object and the sensor device 28 and/or other parameters, such as the duration or path of movement.
The algorithm may initialize a timer when the light source is activated. The timer may run for at least 30 seconds and/or less than or equal to 60 seconds, or any other time. In some embodiments, the timer may run for less than 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the timer may run for about 5 seconds. In some embodiments, the light source will turn off immediately when time runs out. In some embodiments, the light will remain activated as long as the sensor device 28 detects an object before the time expires. The timer may be restarted immediately if the sensor arrangement 28 detects an object, or when time is exhausted. If the sensor device 28 does not detect an object before the time has expired, the light source will be turned off.
The algorithm may include a delay to disable the sensor or prevent the light source 30 from emitting light immediately after the light source 30 is disabled. The delay may be 1 second, 5 seconds, or any other amount of time. The delay helps to prevent the user from inadvertently activating the light source 30. During the delay period, the light source 30 will not emit light even if the object is in the sensing region during the delay period. If the sensor device 28 detects an object after a delay period, the light source 30 may again emit light.
The level of light emitted from the light source 30 is not solely dependent on the length of time the user dwells in the sensing region, either alone or in combination. Depending on the location of the user at different sensing regions, the level of light emitted from the light source 30 may be different even if some other parameters are the same (e.g., the duration of time the user is detected at a region).
Mirror assembly 2 may also include an algorithm configured to send a command to trigger light source 30 to activate based on the detected signal. For example, the algorithm 200 may resemble the flowchart depicted in FIG. 13. Beginning at start block 202, the controller initializes the hardware of the mirror assembly and variables of the run block 204. Moving to decision block 206, if a signal is detected at the first sensing region, the controller activates a first level of light at operation block 208. If no signal is detected in the first sensing region, the algorithm moves to decision block 210.
If a signal is detected in the second area, the controller activates a second level of light at operation block 212. If no signal is detected in the second sensing region, the algorithm moves to decision block 214. If the signal detection is for a task mode, the controller activates the third level of light at execution block 216.
The third level of light may be a power saving level of light, such as if the user plans to keep the light source 30 active for a relatively long time (e.g., 30 minutes or more). After the third level of light is activated, a timer is initialized (block 218). The timer may be 30 seconds or any other time period. If no user is detected within the sensing region within the 30 second timing time, the light source 30 is turned off and the algorithm returns to just after hardware and variable initialization in the execution block 104. If a user is detected within the sensing region within a 30 second timing time, the 30 second timing is repeated.
In some embodiments, by adjusting the electrical characteristics of the power supply to the light source according to the battery life stage (e.g., increasing voltage as current decreases or increasing current as voltage decreases), the mirror assembly 2 may include an algorithm configured to maintain the light source (e.g., LED) brightness at a substantially constant level even if the battery capacity is near the end of its life (requiring recharging).
The algorithm 200 may not include all of the blocks described above, or may include more decision blocks for additional sensing regions, other modes, or other parameters as described throughout the present invention.
In some embodiments, mirror assembly 2 may include an algorithm configured to detect whether a mirror has been inadvertently activated, such as with a false trigger or by the presence of a stationary object. For example, the controller may initialize a timer when the sensor detects an object. If the mirror assembly 2 does not detect any movement before the timer expires, the light source will be switched off. If the mirror assembly 2 does detect motion, the timer may be reinitialized.
As noted above, the mirror assembly 2 may include a processor that may control the input and output characteristics and functions of the mirror assembly 2 through various schemes and algorithms. The mirror assembly 2 may also include memory, e.g., firmware, that stores various control schemes and algorithms, as well as certain instructions and/or settings related to various features of the mirror assembly 2. For example, the memory may include instructions and/or settings related to the size of the sensing region, the sensitivity of the sensor, the level of output light, the length of various timers, and others.
The mirror assembly 2 may be configured such that a user may modify (e.g., update, program, or otherwise) the memory, such as by connecting the mirror assembly 2 to a computer. For example, the mirror 2 may be communicatively connected to a computer via a port 24 (e.g., using USB, cable). Data may be transferred between the computer and the mirror assembly 2 through the
When the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with a computer, a control panel may be displayed on the computer. The control panel may allow a user to adjust various input and output characteristics for the mirror assembly 2. For example, the user may use the control panel to adjust the output of the transmitters 36a and 36b and/or the sensitivity of the transmitters 36a, 36 b. The user may also configure the light levels associated with the first and second sensing regions. In another example, a user may adjust the size (e.g., depth, width, and/or height) of one or more sensing regions. In some implementations, a user may use the control panel to modify the operation and output of the light source 30 (e.g., the intensity and/or color of the light) based on certain conditions, such as time, level of background light, battery remaining power, and so forth. In certain variations, the ability to modify the operating parameters of the mirror assembly 2 using the control panel may reduce or eliminate the need for one or more adjustment devices (e.g., buttons, knobs, switches, etc.) on the mirror assembly 2, thereby providing a substantially uniform exterior surface of the mirror assembly 2 (which may facilitate cleaning) and reducing the chance of accidental adjustment of the operating parameters (as with shipping of the mirror assembly 2).
When the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with a computer, data may be transferred from the mirror assembly 2 to the computer. For example, the mirror assembly 2 may communicate data such as power consumption, expected residual charge, number of activations and/or deactivation of the light source 30, length of use of the light source 30 (e.g., individual instances and/or all), and so forth. Software may be used to analyze the transmitted data, such as to calculate averages, check application statistics (e.g., over a particular period of time), spot and/or draw attention to unusual activity, and graphically display application statistics. Transferring application statistics from the mirror assembly 2 to the computer allows the user to monitor usage and may enable the user to verify different characteristics of the mirror assembly 2 (e.g., based on previous usage and parameters). Transferring data from the mirror assembly 2 to the computer may also reduce or avoid the need for one or more adjustments or display devices on the mirror assembly itself.
The mirror computer may also transmit data to the mirror assembly 2 when the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with the computer. Also, when the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with a computer, the electrical potential may be provided to the battery 26 before, during, or after the bi-directional data transfer.
While cosmetic mirrors have been disclosed in certain embodiments and examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present description may extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other embodiments and/or uses of the claimed subject matter, as well as obvious modifications and equivalent embodiments. In addition, while numerous variations of cosmetic mirrors have been described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form different models of vanity mirrors. Thus, the scope of protection of the subject matter disclosed herein should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above.
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