| 摘要 |
A modular rearview mirror system includes a variable reflectance device having a reflectance surface, which reflects light incident the surface from a direction rearward of the vehicle. The variable reflectance device is responsive to a drive signal by dimming to a partial reflectance condition. A control for the reflectivity value of the variable reflectance device includes first and second light sensors and a circuit. The circuit is responsive to the light sensors to produce a drive signal as a function of the light levels to which the light sensors are exposed. The first and second light sensors are both aimed generally in a direction rearwardly of the vehicle. The first light sensor is aimed along a generally horizontal axis and the second light sensor is aimed along another axis that deviates from the horizontal axis. A preferable deviation between the axes is at least approximately 10 degrees, but not more than approximately 70 degrees. The light sensors may both be positioned behind the variable reflectance device within the mirror casing and may be aimed through the variable reflectance device and/or through a potion of the substrate thereof. The variable reflectance device is preferably an electrochromic mirror element but may also be a liquid crystal device, suspended particle device, or other known electro-optical device. The automatic rearview mirror system may be used as an exterior vehicle mirror, as a vehicle interior mirror, or as all three mirrors on a vehicle. The mirror system is particularly suited for use on automobiles, minivans, light trucks, small vans, and sport utility vehicles.
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