Automatic sun visor assembly

Abstract

An automatic sun visor assembly is disclosed for use in automobiles or in other equipment with windows or windshields. The invention is designed to automatically adjust the position of a visor to provide maximum protection from sunlight and to enhance safety by preventing direct sunlight from interfering with the operator's or the passenger's vision. The invention utilizes motors that include interfaces that allow their control by electronic controllers for automatically adjusting visor's position and orientation based on sensing of environmental conditions such as position of the sun, vehicle orientation and the position of operator's eyes. Specifically, the invention utilizes three motors that enable controlling visor position in three spatial dimensions. The use of an extendable spring wire in the invention enables the visor to stretch out and block direct sunlight from entering at angles where the traditional visors are unable to reach. The visor can also be lowered such as for a short operator or passenger or angled such that it is effective in blocking direct sunlight while also allowing the operator to maintain a clear view of overhead traffic signals. The visor position is controlled by actuators, typically servo-motors, which may be controlled directly by an embedded controller, by a remote control unit in the hands of the operator, or by manually enabling switches included on the visor assembly.