Patent US6516664B2 successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US6516664B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Rain sensor mount for use in a vehicle
Assignee: Magna Electronics Inc
•
Filing: 2001-12-17
•
Granted: 2003-02-11
•
Expires: 2021-12-17
Abstract
Abstract A module assembly suitable for attachment to an inner surface of a vehicle windshield includes a housing and a rain sensor. The housing comprises a first side, which is configured to be generally adjacent the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when the module assembly is attached to the inner surface of the windshield. The housing further comprises a second side, which is generally opposing the first side. The module assembly further includes a rearview mirror assembly mounting member provided at the second side of the housing for releasably mounting a rearview mirror assembly to the module assembly. The rain sensor and at least one other vehicular accessory are accommodated in the housing, which is adapted at its first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by at least one of a mechanical attachment and an adhesive attachment.
Inventors
- 👤 Niall R. Lynam
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-26 20:54
CPC Classifications
B; B60; B60S; B60S1/00; B60S1/02; B60S1/04; B60S1/06; B60S1/08; B60S1/0818; B60S1/0822; B60R; B60R1/00; B60R1/02; B60R1/04; B60R1/12; B60R11/00; B60R11/02; B60R11/0247; B60S1/0874; B60S1/0885; B60R11/0241; B60R2001/1223; B60R2011/0001; B60R2011/0003; B60R2011/0026; B60R2011/0033; B60S1/0833; B60S1/0881; G; G02; G02B; G02B27/00; G02B27/01; G02B27/0101; G02B2027/0118; G02B2027/012; G02B6/00
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 230
Claim 1
Independent Claim
231 words
A module assembly suitable for attachment to an inner surface of a vehicle windshield, said assembly comprising: a housing, said housing comprising a first side configured to be generally adjacent the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly attaches to the inner surface; said housing further comprising a second side, said second side being generally opposing said first side; a rearview mirror assembly mounting member provided at said second side for releasably mounting a rearview mirror assembly to said module assembly; a rain sensor and at least one other vehicular accessory accommodated in said housing, said at least one other vehicular accessory comprising at least one of an antenna, a transmitter, a receiver, a compass, a GPS system accessory, a pager system accessory, a cellular phone system accessory, a security system accessory, a tire pressure monitoring system accessory, a remote fueling system accessory, a remote keyless entry system accessory, a garage door opener system accessory, an internet interface system accessory, a vehicle tracking system accessory, a remote car door unlock system accessory, an email system accessory, a toll booth transaction system accessory, a highway information system accessory, a traffic warning system accessory, and a home access system accessory; and said housing adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by at least one of a mechanical attachment and an adhesive attachment.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
231 words
A module assembly suitable for attachment to an inner surface of a vehicle windshield, said assembly comprising: a housing, said housing comprising a first side configured to be generally adjacent the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly attaches to the inner surface; said housing further comprising a second side, said second side being generally opposing said first side; a rearview mirror assembly mounting member provided at said second side for releasably mounting a rearview mirror assembly to said module assembly; a rain sensor and at least one other vehicular accessory accommodated in said housing, said at least one other vehicular accessory comprising at least one of an antenna, a transmitter, a receiver, a compass, a GPS system accessory, a pager system accessory, a cellular phone system accessory, a security system accessory, a tire pressure monitoring system accessory, a remote fueling system accessory, a remote keyless entry system accessory, a garage door opener system accessory, an internet interface system accessory, a vehicle tracking system accessory, a remote car door unlock system accessory, an email system accessory, a toll booth transaction system accessory, a highway information system accessory, a traffic warning system accessory, and a home access system accessory; and said housing adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by at least one of a mechanical attachment and an adhesive attachment.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
30 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side for attachment to the interior surface of the windshield by an adhesive attachment.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
28 words
The module assembly according to claim 2 , wherein said adhesive attachment comprises an adhesive for adhesively attaching said housing to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
42 words
The module assembly according to claim 3 , wherein said adhesive comprises an adhesive chosen from a polyvinyl butyral adhesive material, an epoxy adhesive material, a urethane adhesive material, an acrylate adhesive material, an acrylic adhesive material, and a silicone adhesive material.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 3 , wherein said adhesive includes an opening for receiving said rain sensor.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 5 , wherein said rain sensor contacts the inner surface of the windshield at said opening.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 3 , wherein said rain sensor contacts said adhesive to optically couple to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
38 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said housing includes an access opening and a cover, said cover providing access to at least one of said rain sensor and said at least one other vehicle accessory.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 8 , wherein said cover comprises a removable cover.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 9 , wherein said cover comprises at least one releasable fastener.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 10 , wherein said releasable fastener comprises a fastener chosen from a clip, a screw, a snap, and a latch.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 8 , wherein said second side includes said cover.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
13 words
The module assembly according 1 , wherein said housing comprises a polymer material.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
13 words
The module assembly according 1 , wherein said housing comprises a polymer material.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
29 words
The module assembly according to claim 13 , wherein said polymer material comprises one of a nylon material, an ABS material, an engineering resin material, and a polyolefin material.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said rain sensor comprises a rain sensor unit.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
16 words
The module assembly according to claim 15 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises electrical circuitry.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
43 words
The module assembly according to claim 15 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a detecting surface and a light emitting source, and light from said light emitting source being refracted at an outer surface of said windshield and impinging said detecting surface.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
30 words
The module assembly according to claim 17 , wherein said rain sensor unit further comprises electronic circuitry for generating an electrical signal indicative of detection of moisture on the windshield.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 18 , wherein said housing houses at least a portion of said electronic circuitry.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
33 words
The module assembly according to claim 18 , wherein said electronic circuitry at least one of receives an input from another vehicle electrical accessory and delivers an output to another vehicle electrical accessory.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
25 words
The module assembly according to claim 18 , wherein said electronic circuitry shares at least one component of at least one other vehicle electrical accessory.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 21 , wherein said electronic circuitry shares at least one component of an automatic dimming circuitry.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
38 words
The module assembly according to claim 15 , wherein said rain sensor unit includes at least one electrical connector for connection to at least one chosen from a vehicle ignition system, a vehicle battery, and a vehicle bus.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
53 words
The module assembly according to claim 15 , wherein said rain sensor unit includes at least one electrical connector, said at least one electrical connector being adapted to couple to a ventilation system of the vehicle for controlling at least one of a defrost cycle and a demisting cycle of the ventilation system.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 15 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a removable rain sensor unit.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 15 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises an integral part of said housing.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 15 , wherein said rain sensor unit generates an electrical signal for at least one of a wiper system, a sunroof system, a ventilation system, and a traction control system.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said first side of said housing is configured to mount to an attachment member for attaching said module assembly to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said first side is adapted to mount to an attachment member by at least one of a snap-on attachment, a twist-on attachment, and a releasable adhesive attachment.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
31 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by a mechanical attachment.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side to attach to an attachment member mounted to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said attachment member comprises a contiguous mounting member.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
16 words
The module assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said attachment member comprises an annular member.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
31 words
The module assembly according to claim 33 , wherein said annular member includes a central opening, said rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said central opening.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said attachment member comprises at least one rail.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said attachment member comprises a non-contiguous mounting member.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said attachment member comprises a pair of rails.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said rearview mirror assembly mounting member comprises a mirror mounting button.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
23 words
The module assembly according to claim 38 , wherein said mirror assembly mounting button is attached to said housing at said second side.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 38 , wherein said mirror assembly mounting button is formed by molding whereby said mirror assembly mounting button comprises an integral member of said module assembly.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
25 words
The module assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said first side includes a portion configured for releasably mounting said housing to said attachment member.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
21 words
The module assembly according to claim 41 , wherein said rearview mirror assembly mounting member and said portion are substantially aligned.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
46 words
The module assembly according to claim 41 , wherein said attachment member includes a dimensional area comprising a first foot print, said mirror assembly mounting button including a dimensional area comprising a second foot print, and said first and second foot prints being substantially the same.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
39 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a rearview mirror assembly, said rearview mirror assembly comprising a mirror housing and a reflective element, and said rearview mirror assembly mounting to said rearview mirror assembly mounting member.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
18 words
The module assembly according to claim 44 , wherein said reflective element comprises a variable reflectance mirror element.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 44 , wherein said reflective element comprises a prismatic mirror element.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 44 , wherein said reflective element comprises an electrochromic reflective element.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
18 words
The module assembly according to claim 47 , wherein said electrochromic reflective element comprises an electrochemichromic reflective element.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
39 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a resilient member, said resilient member urging said rain sensor to contact the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly is mounted to the vehicle windshield.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 49 , wherein said resilient member comprises a spring.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 50 , wherein said spring comprises one chosen from a helical spring and a resilient disc.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 49 , wherein said housing includes said resilient member.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
33 words
The module assembly according to claim 49 , wherein said housing includes an opening, said resilient member urging said rain sensor to contact the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said opening.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said rain sensor is encapsulated by said housing to form a modular unit.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 15 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a body having a shape.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 55 , wherein said shape comprises a cylindrical shape.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
24 words
The module assembly according to claim 56 , wherein said cylindrical-shaped body includes a circular end face having a diameter of approximately 3.3 centimeters.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 55 , wherein said body includes a cross-section dimension, a body length, and a ratio of said cross-section dimension to said body length greater than 1.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 58 , wherein said ratio is greater than 2.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 59 , wherein said ratio is greater than 3.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
43 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein a layer of adhesive for adhesively attaching said housing to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield is disposed between said housing and the inner surface of the windshield when mounted to the windshield.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 61 , wherein said layer of adhesive comprises at least one of an epoxy adhesive material, a polyvinyl butyral adhesive material, a urethane adhesive material, and a silicone adhesive material.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
27 words
The module assembly according to claim 61 , wherein said layer of adhesive extends over at least a substantial portion of said first side of said housing.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
23 words
The module assembly according to claim 63 , wherein said layer of adhesive terminates at or near an outer perimeter of said housing.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
16 words
The module assembly according to claim 61 , wherein said layer of adhesive comprises discrete regions.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
44 words
The module assembly according to claim 61 , wherein said layer of adhesive includes an opening, said rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said opening when said module assembly is attached to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said housing includes an access opening, said access opening being sufficiently large to permit removal of said rain sensor through said access opening.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 67 , wherein said housing includes a cover, said cover providing access to said rain sensor through said access opening.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
57 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , wherein said first side is configured to attach at a frit layer of the inner surface of the vehicle windshield wherein the frit layer at least partially hides the attachment location of said module assembly to the vehicle windshield when viewed through the outer surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a second sensor, said second sensor accommodated in said housing.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
52 words
The module assembly according to claim 70 , wherein said second sensor comprises a second rain sensor, said second rain sensor contacting an inner surface of the vehicle windshield for detecting moisture on an inner surface of the windshield when said module assembly is mounted to the inner surface of the windshield.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
34 words
The module assembly according to claim 71 , wherein said second rain sensor is coupled to a ventilation system of the vehicle for activating a blower to demist the inner surface of the windshield.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 71 , wherein said housing includes a second opening, and said second rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said second opening.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
37 words
The module assembly according to claim 70 , wherein said second sensor comprises at least one chosen from a compass sensor, a seat occupancy sensor, a vehicle altitude sensor, a vehicle inclination sensor, and a photo sensor.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
157 words
A module assembly suitable for attachment to an inner surface of a vehicle windshield, said assembly comprising: a housing, said housing comprising a first side configured to be generally adjacent the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly attaches to the inner surface; said housing further comprising a second side, said second side being generally opposing said first side; a rearview mirror assembly mounting member provided at said second side for releasably mounting a rearview mirror assembly to said module assembly; a rain sensor and at least one other vehicular accessory accommodated in said housing, said housing including an access opening and a cover, said cover providing access to at least one of said rain sensor and said at least one other vehicle accessory; and said housing adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by at least one of a mechanical attachment and an adhesive attachment.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
157 words
A module assembly suitable for attachment to an inner surface of a vehicle windshield, said assembly comprising: a housing, said housing comprising a first side configured to be generally adjacent the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly attaches to the inner surface; said housing further comprising a second side, said second side being generally opposing said first side; a rearview mirror assembly mounting member provided at said second side for releasably mounting a rearview mirror assembly to said module assembly; a rain sensor and at least one other vehicular accessory accommodated in said housing, said housing including an access opening and a cover, said cover providing access to at least one of said rain sensor and said at least one other vehicle accessory; and said housing adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by at least one of a mechanical attachment and an adhesive attachment.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
30 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side for attachment to the interior surface of the windshield by an adhesive attachment.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
28 words
The module assembly according to claim 76 , wherein said adhesive attachment comprises an adhesive for adhesively attaching said housing to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
42 words
The module assembly according to claim 77 , wherein said adhesive comprises an adhesive chosen from a polyvinyl butyral adhesive material, an epoxy adhesive material, a urethane adhesive material, an acrylate adhesive material, an acrylic adhesive material, and a silicone adhesive material.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 77 , wherein said adhesive includes an opening for receiving said rain sensor.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
25 words
The module assembly according to claim 79 , wherein said rain sensor contacts the inner surface of the windshield at said opening of said adhesive.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 77 , wherein said rain sensor contacts said adhesive to optically couple to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said rain sensor includes electrical circuitry.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
112 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said at least one other vehicular accessory comprises at least one of an antenna, a transmitter, a receiver, a compass, a GPS system accessory, a pager system accessory, a cellular phone system accessory, a security system accessory, a tire pressure monitoring system accessory, a remote fueling system accessory, a remote keyless entry system accessory, a garage door opener system accessory, an internet interface system accessory, a vehicle tracking system accessory, a remote car door unlock system accessory, an email system accessory, a toll booth transaction system accessory, a highway information system accessory, a traffic warning system accessory, and a home access system accessory.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said cover comprises a removable cover.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 84 , wherein said cover comprises at least one releasable fastener.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 85 , wherein said releasable fastener comprises a fastener chosen from a clip, a screw, a snap, and a latch.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said second side includes said cover.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
13 words
The module assembly according 75 , wherein said housing comprises a polymer material.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
13 words
The module assembly according 75 , wherein said housing comprises a polymer material.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
29 words
The module assembly according to claim 88 , wherein said polymer material comprises one of a nylon material, an ABS material, an engineering resin material, and a polyolefin material.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said rain sensor comprises a rain sensor unit.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
43 words
The module assembly according to claim 90 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a detecting surface and a light emitting source, and light from said light emitting source being refracted at an outer surface of said windshield and impinging said detecting surface.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
30 words
The module assembly according to claim 91 , wherein said rain sensor unit further comprises electronic circuitry for generating an electrical signal indicative of detection of moisture on the windshield.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 92 , wherein said housing houses at least a portion of said electronic circuitry.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
35 words
The module assembly according to claim 92 , wherein said electronic circuitry at least one of receives an input from another electrical accessory in the vehicle and delivers an output to another vehicle electrical accessory.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
25 words
The module assembly according to claim 92 , wherein said electronic circuitry shares at least one component of at least one other vehicle electrical accessory.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 95 , wherein said electronic circuitry shares at least one component of an automatic dimming circuitry.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
38 words
The module assembly according to claim 90 , wherein said rain sensor unit includes at least one electrical connector for connection to at least one chosen from a vehicle ignition system, a vehicle battery, and a vehicle bus.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
53 words
The module assembly according to claim 90 , wherein said rain sensor unit includes at least one electrical connector, said at least one electrical connector being adapted to couple to a ventilation system of the vehicle for controlling at least one of a defrost cycle and a demisting cycle of the ventilation system.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 90 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a removable rain sensor unit.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 90 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises an integral part of said housing.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 90 , wherein said rain sensor unit generates an electrical signal for at least one of a wiper system, a sunroof system, a ventilation system, and a traction control system.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said first side of said housing is configured to mount to an attachment member for attaching said module assembly to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said first side is adapted to mount to an attachment member by at least one of a snap-on attachment, a twist-on attachment, and a releasable adhesive attachment.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
31 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by a mechanical attachment.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side to attach to an attachment member mounted to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 105 , wherein said attachment member comprises a contiguous mounting member.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
16 words
The module assembly according to claim 105 , wherein said attachment member comprises an annular member.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
31 words
The module assembly according to claim 107 , wherein said annular member includes a central opening, said rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said central opening.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 105 , wherein said attachment member comprises at least one rail.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 105 , wherein said attachment member comprises a non-contiguous mounting member.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 105 , wherein said attachment member comprises a pair of rails.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said rearview mirror assembly mounting member comprises a mirror mounting button.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
23 words
The module assembly according to claim 112 , wherein said mirror assembly mounting button is attached to said housing at said second side.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 112 , wherein said mirror assembly mounting button is formed by molding whereby said mirror assembly mounting button comprises an integral member of said module assembly.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
25 words
The module assembly according to claim 105 , wherein said first side includes a portion configured for releasably mounting said housing to said attachment member.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
21 words
The module assembly according to claim 115 , wherein said rearview mirror assembly mounting member and said portion are substantially aligned.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
46 words
The module assembly according to claim 115 , wherein said attachment member includes a dimensional area comprising a first foot print, said mirror assembly mounting button including a dimensional area comprising a second foot print, and said first and second foot prints being substantially the same.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
39 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , further comprising a rearview mirror assembly, said rearview mirror assembly comprising a mirror housing and a reflective element, and said rearview mirror assembly mounting to said rearview mirror assembly mounting member.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
18 words
The module assembly according to claim 118 , wherein said reflective element comprises a variable reflectance mirror element.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 118 , wherein said reflective element comprises a prismatic mirror element.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 118 , wherein said reflective element comprises an electrochromic reflective element.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
18 words
The module assembly according to claim 121 , wherein said electrochromic reflective element comprises an electrochemichromic reflective element.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
39 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , further comprising a resilient member, said resilient member urging said rain sensor to contact the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly is mounted to the vehicle windshield.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 123 , wherein said resilient member comprises a spring.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 124 , wherein said spring comprises one chosen from a helical spring and a resilient disc.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 123 , wherein said housing includes said resilient member.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
35 words
The module assembly according to claim 123 , wherein said housing includes a second opening, said resilient member urging said rain sensor to contact the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said second opening.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said rain sensor is encapsulated by said housing to form a modular unit.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 90 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a body having a shape.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 129 , wherein said shape comprises a cylindrical shape.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
24 words
The module assembly according to claim 130 , wherein said cylindrical-shaped body includes a circular end face having a diameter of approximately 3.3 centimeters.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 129 , wherein said body includes a cross-section dimension, a body length, and a ratio of said cross-section dimension to said body length greater than 1.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 132 , wherein said ratio is greater than 2.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 133 , wherein said ratio is greater than 3.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
43 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein a layer of adhesive for adhesively attaching said housing to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield is disposed between said housing and the inner surface of the windshield when mounted to the windshield.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 135 , wherein said layer of adhesive comprises at least one of an epoxy adhesive material, a polyvinyl butyral adhesive material, a urethane adhesive material, and a silicone adhesive material.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
27 words
The module assembly according to claim 135 , wherein said layer of adhesive extends over at least a substantial portion of said first side of said housing.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
23 words
The module assembly according to claim 137 , wherein said layer of adhesive terminates at or near an outer perimeter of said housing.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
16 words
The module assembly according to claim 135 , wherein said layer of adhesive comprises discrete regions.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
47 words
The module assembly according to claim 135 , wherein said layer of adhesive includes an opening, said rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said opening of said adhesive when said module assembly is attached to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said access opening is sufficiently large to permit removal of said rain sensor through said access opening.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
13 words
The module assembly according to claim 141 , wherein said cover is removable.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
57 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , wherein said first side is configured to attach at a frit layer of the inner surface of the vehicle windshield wherein the frit layer at least partially hides the attachment location of said module assembly to the vehicle windshield when viewed through the outer surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 75 , further comprising a second sensor, said second sensor accommodated in said housing.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
52 words
The module assembly according to claim 144 , wherein said second sensor comprises a second rain sensor, said second rain sensor contacting an inner surface of the vehicle windshield for detecting moisture on an inner surface of the windshield when said module assembly is mounted to the inner surface of the windshield.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
34 words
The module assembly according to claim 145 , wherein said second rain sensor is coupled to a ventilation system of the vehicle for activating a blower to demist the inner surface of the windshield.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 145 , wherein said housing includes a second opening, and said second rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said second opening.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
37 words
The module assembly according to claim 144 , wherein said second sensor comprises at least one chosen from a compass sensor, a seat occupancy sensor, a vehicle altitude sensor, a vehicle inclination sensor, and a photo sensor.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
144 words
A module assembly suitable for attachment to an inner surface of a vehicle windshield, said assembly comprising: a housing, said housing comprising a first side configured to be generally adjacent the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly attaches to the inner surface; said housing further comprising a second side, said second side being generally opposing said first side; a rearview mirror assembly mounting member provided at said second side for releasably mounting a rearview mirror assembly to said module assembly; a rain sensor and at least one other vehicular accessory accommodated in said housing, said rain sensor sharing at least one component of at least one other vehicle electrical accessory; and said housing adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by at least one of a mechanical attachment and an adhesive attachment.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
144 words
A module assembly suitable for attachment to an inner surface of a vehicle windshield, said assembly comprising: a housing, said housing comprising a first side configured to be generally adjacent the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly attaches to the inner surface; said housing further comprising a second side, said second side being generally opposing said first side; a rearview mirror assembly mounting member provided at said second side for releasably mounting a rearview mirror assembly to said module assembly; a rain sensor and at least one other vehicular accessory accommodated in said housing, said rain sensor sharing at least one component of at least one other vehicle electrical accessory; and said housing adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by at least one of a mechanical attachment and an adhesive attachment.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
30 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side for attachment to the interior surface of the windshield by an adhesive attachment.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
28 words
The module assembly according to claim 150 , wherein said adhesive attachment comprises an adhesive for adhesively attaching said housing to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
42 words
The module assembly according to claim 151 , wherein said adhesive comprises an adhesive chosen from a polyvinyl butyral adhesive material, an epoxy adhesive material, a urethane adhesive material, an acrylate adhesive material, an acrylic adhesive material, and a silicone adhesive material.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 151 , wherein said adhesive includes an opening for receiving said rain sensor.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 153 , wherein said rain sensor contacts the inner surface of the windshield at said opening.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 151 , wherein said rain sensor contacts said adhesive to optically couple to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim
38 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said housing includes an access opening and a cover, said cover providing access to at least one of said rain sensor and said at least one other vehicle accessory.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 156 , wherein said cover comprises a removable cover.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 157 , wherein said cover comprises at least one releasable fastener.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 158 , wherein said releasable fastener comprises a fastener chosen from a clip, a screw, a snap, and a latch.
Claim 165
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 156 , wherein said second side includes said cover.
Claim 166
Dependent Claim
13 words
The module assembly according 149 , wherein said housing comprises a polymer material.
Claim 167
Dependent Claim
13 words
The module assembly according 149 , wherein said housing comprises a polymer material.
Claim 168
Dependent Claim
29 words
The module assembly according to claim 161 , wherein said polymer material comprises one of a nylon material, an ABS material, an engineering resin material, and a polyolefin material.
Claim 169
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said rain sensor comprises a rain sensor unit.
Claim 170
Dependent Claim
16 words
The module assembly according to claim 163 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises electrical circuitry.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim
43 words
The module assembly according to claim 163 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a detecting surface and a light emitting source, and light from said light emitting source being refracted at an outer surface of said windshield and impinging said detecting surface.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim
30 words
The module assembly according to claim 165 , wherein said rain sensor unit further comprises electronic circuitry for generating an electrical signal indicative of detection of moisture on the windshield.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 166 , wherein said housing houses at least a portion of said electronic circuitry.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim
33 words
The module assembly according to claim 166 , wherein said electronic circuitry at least one of receives an input from another vehicle electrical accessory and delivers an output to another vehicle electrical accessory.
Claim 175
Dependent Claim
21 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said at least one other vehicle electrical accessory is in the vehicle.
Claim 176
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 169 , wherein said other vehicle electrical accessory comprises said at least one other vehicular accessory.
Claim 177
Dependent Claim
21 words
The module assembly according to claim 166 wherein said electronic circuitry shares at least one component of an automatic dimming circuitry.
Claim 178
Dependent Claim
38 words
The module assembly according to claim 163 , wherein said rain sensor unit includes at least one electrical connector for connection to at least one chosen from a vehicle ignition system, a vehicle battery, and a vehicle bus.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim
53 words
The module assembly according to claim 163 , wherein said rain sensor unit includes at least one electrical connector, said at least one electrical connector being adapted to couple to a ventilation system of the vehicle for controlling at least one of a defrost cycle and a demisting cycle of the ventilation system.
Claim 180
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 163 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a removable rain sensor unit.
Claim 181
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 163 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises an integral part of said housing.
Claim 182
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 163 , wherein said rain sensor unit generates an electrical signal for at least one of a wiper system, a sunroof system, a ventilation system, and a traction control system.
Claim 183
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said first side of said housing is configured to mount to an attachment member for attaching said module assembly to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 184
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said first side is adapted to mount to an attachment member by at least one of a snap-on attachment, a twist-on attachment, and a releasable adhesive attachment.
Claim 185
Dependent Claim
31 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side for attachment to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield by a mechanical attachment.
Claim 186
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said housing is adapted at said first side to attach to an attachment member mounted to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 187
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 180 , wherein said attachment member comprises a contiguous mounting member.
Claim 188
Dependent Claim
16 words
The module assembly according to claim 180 , wherein said attachment member comprises an annular member.
Claim 189
Dependent Claim
31 words
The module assembly according to claim 182 , wherein said annular member includes a central opening, said rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said central opening.
Claim 190
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 180 , wherein said attachment member comprises at least one rail.
Claim 191
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 180 , wherein said attachment member comprises a non-contiguous mounting member.
Claim 192
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 180 , wherein said attachment member comprises a pair of rails.
Claim 193
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said rearview mirror assembly mounting member comprises a mirror mounting button.
Claim 194
Dependent Claim
23 words
The module assembly according to claim 187 , wherein said mirror assembly mounting button is attached to said housing at said second side.
Claim 195
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 187 , wherein said mirror assembly mounting button is formed by molding whereby said mirror assembly mounting button comprises an integral member of said module assembly.
Claim 196
Dependent Claim
25 words
The module assembly according to claim 180 , wherein said first side includes a portion configured for releasably mounting said housing to said attachment member.
Claim 197
Dependent Claim
21 words
The module assembly according to claim 190 , wherein said rearview mirror assembly mounting member and said portion are substantially aligned.
Claim 198
Dependent Claim
46 words
The module assembly according to claim 190 , wherein said attachment member includes a dimensional area comprising a first foot print, said mirror assembly mounting member including a dimensional area comprising a second foot print, and said first and second foot prints being substantially the same.
Claim 199
Dependent Claim
39 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , further comprising a rearview mirror assembly, said rearview mirror assembly comprising a mirror housing and a reflective element, and said rearview mirror assembly mounting to said rearview mirror assembly mounting member.
Claim 200
Dependent Claim
18 words
The module assembly according to claim 193 , wherein said reflective element comprises a variable reflectance mirror element.
Claim 201
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 193 , wherein said reflective element comprises a prismatic mirror element.
Claim 202
Dependent Claim
17 words
The module assembly according to claim 193 , wherein said reflective element comprises an electrochromic reflective element.
Claim 203
Dependent Claim
18 words
The module assembly according to claim 196 , wherein said electrochromic reflective element comprises an electrochemichromic reflective element.
Claim 204
Dependent Claim
39 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , further comprising a resilient member, said resilient member urging said rain sensor to contact the inner surface of the vehicle windshield when said module assembly is mounted to the vehicle windshield.
Claim 205
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 198 , wherein said resilient member comprises a spring.
Claim 206
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 199 , wherein said spring comprises one chosen from a helical spring and a resilient disc.
Claim 207
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 198 , wherein said housing includes said resilient member.
Claim 208
Dependent Claim
33 words
The module assembly according to claim 198 , wherein said housing includes an opening, said resilient member urging said rain sensor to contact the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said opening.
Claim 209
Dependent Claim
22 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said rain sensor is encapsulated by said housing to form a modular unit.
Claim 210
Dependent Claim
19 words
The module assembly according to claim 163 , wherein said rain sensor unit comprises a body having a shape.
Claim 211
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 204 , wherein said shape comprises a cylindrical shape.
Claim 212
Dependent Claim
24 words
The module assembly according to claim 205 , wherein said cylindrical-shaped body includes a circular end face having a diameter of approximately 3.3 centimeters.
Claim 213
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 204 , wherein said body includes a cross-section dimension, a body length, and a ratio of said cross-section dimension to said body length greater than 1.
Claim 214
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 207 , wherein said ratio is greater than 2.
Claim 215
Dependent Claim
15 words
The module assembly according to claim 208 , wherein said ratio is greater than 3.
Claim 216
Dependent Claim
43 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein a layer of adhesive for adhesively attaching said housing to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield is disposed between said housing and the inner surface of the windshield when mounted to the windshield.
Claim 217
Dependent Claim
36 words
The module assembly according to claim 210 , wherein said layer of adhesive comprises at least one of an epoxy adhesive material, a polyvinyl butyral adhesive material, a urethane adhesive material, and a silicone adhesive material.
Claim 218
Dependent Claim
27 words
The module assembly according to claim 210 , wherein said layer of adhesive extends over at least a substantial portion of said first side of said housing.
Claim 219
Dependent Claim
23 words
The module assembly according to claim 212 , wherein said layer of adhesive terminates at or near an outer perimeter of said housing.
Claim 220
Dependent Claim
16 words
The module assembly according to claim 210 , wherein said layer of adhesive comprises discrete regions.
Claim 221
Dependent Claim
44 words
The module assembly according to claim 210 , wherein said layer of adhesive includes an opening, said rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said opening when said module assembly is attached to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 222
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said housing includes an access opening, said access opening being sufficiently large to permit removal of said rain sensor through said access opening.
Claim 223
Dependent Claim
26 words
The module assembly according to claim 216 , wherein said housing includes a cover, said cover providing access to said rain sensor through said access opening.
Claim 224
Dependent Claim
57 words
The module assembly according to claim 216 , wherein said first side is configured to attach at a frit layer of the inner surface of the vehicle windshield wherein the frit layer at least partially hides the attachment location of said module assembly to the vehicle windshield when viewed through the outer surface of the vehicle windshield.
Claim 225
Dependent Claim
20 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , further comprising a second sensor, said second sensor accommodated in said housing.
Claim 226
Dependent Claim
52 words
The module assembly according to claim 219 , wherein said second sensor comprises a second rain sensor, said second rain sensor contacting an inner surface of the vehicle windshield for detecting moisture on an inner surface of the windshield when said module assembly is mounted to the inner surface of the windshield.
Claim 227
Dependent Claim
34 words
The module assembly according to claim 220 , wherein said second rain sensor is coupled to a ventilation system of the vehicle for activating a blower to demist the inner surface of the windshield.
Claim 228
Dependent Claim
32 words
The module assembly according to claim 220 , wherein said housing includes a second opening, and said second rain sensor contacting the inner surface of the vehicle windshield at said second opening.
Claim 229
Dependent Claim
37 words
The module assembly according to claim 219 , wherein said second sensor comprises at least one chosen from a compass sensor, a seat occupancy sensor, a vehicle altitude sensor, a vehicle inclination sensor, and a photo sensor.
Claim 230
Dependent Claim
112 words
The module assembly according to claim 149 , wherein said at least one other vehicular accessory comprises at least one of an antenna, a transmitter, a receiver, a compass, a GPS system accessory, a pager system accessory, a cellular phone system accessory, a security system accessory, a tire pressure monitoring system accessory, a remote fueling system accessory, a remote keyless entry system accessory, a garage door opener system accessory, an internet interface system accessory, a vehicle tracking system accessory, a remote car door unlock system accessory, an email system accessory, a toll booth transaction system accessory, a highway information system accessory, a traffic warning system accessory, and a home access system accessory.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2006-02-10 | 2006-08-12 | 2007-02-11 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2010-02-10 | 2010-08-12 | 2011-02-11 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2014-02-10 | 2014-08-12 | 2015-02-11 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |