Smart Beam - Description

DESCRIPTION





SmartBeam(R) automatic high beam headlamp control is an available option on this vehicle when it is also equipped with the automatic headlamps, automatic wipers and the ElectroChromic (EC) inside rear view mirror. SmartBeam(R) enhances the headlamp system of the vehicle by assisting the driver with the task of turning the headlamp high beams ON and OFF according to surrounding traffic conditions. The only visible component of SmartBeam(R) is the molded black plastic camera pod housing (1) and the rectangular forward-facing clear lens (3). Because the SmartBeam(R) camera looks through the windshield, the system may not function properly if this area is covered with ice, dirt, haze or any other obstruction.

The camera pod is secured to an extension integral to the mounting bracket of the electrochromic inside rear view mirror (2). The camera pod is suspended just below the rear view mirror mounting button on the inside of the windshield glass. The camera pod houses and protects a digital imager camera that is aimed so as to view a predetermined area in the path directly ahead of the vehicle. Also within the housing is the circuitry of the camera and the mounting screws that secure the pod, camera and camera circuit board to the mirror mounting bracket.

For optimal system performance, the SmartBeam(R) camera must be calibrated (aimed) by the dealer to insure that the camera aim is properly centered on the road ahead of the vehicle whenever the inside rear view mirror, the windshield glass, or the mirror mounting button are replaced or reinstalled. If the camera is not properly aimed the system performance may be diminished or altered.

The microprocessor-based electronics of SmartBeam(R) are integral to the circuit board contained within the EC mirror. A short pigtail wire connects the camera circuit board directly to the EC mirror circuit board, and a connector receptacle integral to the forward-facing housing of the EC mirror connects the mirror to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take out and connector of the overhead wire harness.

The SmartBeam(R) is serviced as a unit with the EC inside rear view mirror. If the SmartBeam(R) camera, lens, circuitry or pod is damaged or ineffective, the entire EC inside rear view mirror unit must be replaced.