Why Auto-Dimming? Why Gentex? How Auto-Dimming Works Product Line Overview Mirror as Electronic Module The Future How Do I Get One? Over the years, Gentex mirrors have become more than a safety feature; they've evolved into sophisticated electronic modules. Today's vehicles are, in essence, rolling computers filled with complex electronics. Consequently, automakers continually struggle to integrate new electronic features, displays, sensors and driver communication interfaces. New features can be located in four main areas: the instrument panel, overhead console, center console or auto-dimming mirror. The question is, which is the best location? Increasingly, automakers are realizing that certain features -- compass and temperature displays, driver communication interfaces, garage door openers, headlamp control sensors, etc. - belong in the mirror. Why? Why has the mirror become such a hotbed for electronic innovation? What makes it such an ideal location for these new devices? The reasons are varied and many. 1. Lower Cost First and foremost, locating electronic devices in the mirror is by far the most cost-effective solution. The alternative is redesigning and retooling the overhead console, instrument panel or center console each time a new feature is added to the vehicle, and that's a costly, time-consuming proposition. 2. Common Electronics Automatic-dimming mirrors use a combination of sensors and complex electronics to dim. Many of these components (sensors, circuit boards, micro-controllers, etc.) can be shared with other advanced features to save cost and space, while reducing part counts and overall vehicle complexity. 3. Superior Performance Because of the mirror's location in the vehicle - up high, in the driver's line-of-sight, surrounded by glass - it's an excellent, high-performance location for displays, microphones, antennas, receivers, etc. 4. Safety The mirror's location also makes it a safe place to put features because mirror-borne displays and interfaces can be viewed and interacted with while keeping a natural line-of-sight on the road ahead. Viewing the rearview mirror requires minimal eye movement. Drivers view their mirror more frequently than they view the instrument panel. Data by the Japanese Insurance Association shows that drivers view interior rearview mirrors at least every 15 seconds, or 4 times per minute, while viewing their instrument panel just 3 times per minute. 5. Quick-to-Market Featured mirrors can be designed, engineered and tooled quickly, and are often available "off the shelf." They're also easy to install, allowing vehicle manufacturers to bring new features to market quickly and efficiently across different vehicle platforms. 6. Consistent Location Placing features in the mirror allows manufacturers to present electronic content to drivers in a common location across vehicle platforms. 7. Serviceability Automatic-dimming mirrors are easily accessible, simplifying diagnostics and service. If necessary, they can be easily replaced. 8. Flexibility Mirrors can be changed out or updated easily as new features become available. This enables manufacturers or car dealers to freshen new and used vehicles alike while keeping pace with new technology introductions. 9. Model Differentiation By using the mirror as an electronic module, manufacturers can differentiate between vehicle grades or competitive vehicles by placing different features in the mirror. Gentex believes that automatic-dimming mirrors are the ideal location for four different categories of electronic devices: displays and indicators, value-added features, control interfaces and interior lighting. © Gentex Corporation. All Rights Reserved.