Vehicle equipment control with semiconductor light sensors
First Claim
1. An automatic control system for an automotive vehicle comprising:
- a light sensor package, the light sensor package comprising at least one semiconductor light sensing transducer and sensor logic in communication with each light sensing transducer, the sensor logic generating a discrete light signal based on light incident on each light sensing transducer over an integration period;
control logic coupled to the light sensor package, the control logic generating at least one equipment control signal based on the discrete light signal; and
vehicle equipment coupled to the control logic responsive to the at least one equipment control signal.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Equipment on automotive vehicle is controlled by a system including at least one semiconductor light sensor having variable sensitivity to light. Each light sensor generates a light signal indicative of the intensity of light incident on the light sensor. Control logic varies the sensitivity of the light sensor and generates equipment control signals based on received light signals. Sensitivity of light sensors may be varied by changing the integration time for producing charge from light incident on light transducers, by selecting between light transducers of different sensitivity within the light sensor, by using a light transducer with a sensitivity that is a function of the amount of incident light, and the like. Controlled equipment includes devices such as automatically dimming rearview mirrors, headlamps, and moisture removal means.
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Citations
1 Claim
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1. An automatic control system for an automotive vehicle comprising:
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a light sensor package, the light sensor package comprising at least one semiconductor light sensing transducer and sensor logic in communication with each light sensing transducer, the sensor logic generating a discrete light signal based on light incident on each light sensing transducer over an integration period;
control logic coupled to the light sensor package, the control logic generating at least one equipment control signal based on the discrete light signal; and
vehicle equipment coupled to the control logic responsive to the at least one equipment control signal.
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Specification