DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention generally relates to mirror assemblies. In particular, the present invention relates to defogging means, a system, and a method of defogging a mirror in an enclosed area.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This section is intended to provide information relating to the field of the invention and thus any approach or functionality described below should not be assumed to be qualified as prior art merely by its inclusion in this section.
[0003] In enclosed spaces, such as bathrooms, ventilation is typically poor, and during events such as hot showers, or hot baths, or when hot water is running from a tap, there is generally a rapid build-up in levels of moisture in such enclosed spaces. Particularly, when ambient temperature is low, such as during periods of autumn or winter, the buildup in moisture levels is very evident. Typically, bathrooms also have a vanity area, and a predominant fixture in such an area is a mirror.
[0004] During the periods of rapid moisture buildup, moisture in the air comes in contact with the cooler surface of the reflective surface of the mirror, and condenses upon it, resulting in fogging or misting of the reflective surface of the mirror. This obscures any reflections available from the reflective surface, inconveniencing a user of the mirror.
[0005] Several solutions are available in the art to mitigate fogging of the mirror during such conditions of high moisture content. However, the solutions available in the art are inadequate due to their limitations of: a. defogging or demisting only a small portion of the mirror; b. employing measures that require additional electric resources, making the solution expensive; c. using outdated mechanisms; d. mechanism which rely on heating the reflective surface; e. requiring additional fixtures, making the mirror assembly bulky and impairing the aesthetic value of the mirror; or f. combinations thereof.
[0006] There is, therefore, a requirement in the art, for a means to mitigate fogging of a mirror that overcomes at least some of the limitations of existing prior art, as stated above.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0007] This section is intended to introduce certain objects of the disclosed invention in a simplified form and is not intended to identify the key advantages or features of the present disclosure.
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide for a mirror assembly, with a means to mitigate fogging or defogging means.
[0009] It is another object of the present invention to provide for a mirror assembly comprising a reflective surface and a frame; wherein the frame includes an airflow channel and a plurality of openings to facilitate the defogging of the reflective surface.
[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for a defogging means comprising a heating module and a blower. The heating module is configured to warm the fluid prior to the fluid being circulated through the airflow channel by the blower. The blower is coupled to the inlet of the airflow channel and is configured to force circulate fluid through the airflow channel.
[0011] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for a frame including a plurality of openings that are fluidically coupled to the airflow channel.
[0012] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for a plurality of sensors in a region where the mirror assembly is disposed. The sensors are configured to determine a moisture level in the region. The sensors are also configured to continuously or intermittently monitor the moisture levels in the region.
[0013] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for a system for mitigating fogging of the reflective surface of the mirror assembly. The system includes a control device communicably coupled to the sensors and operatively coupled to the blower and heating module. Based on the level of moisture in the region, the control device is configured to operate the blower and the heating module.
[0014] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide for method of mitigating fogging in the mirror assembly.
SUMMARY:
[0015] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a mirror assembly, a system, and a method to mitigate fogging [defogging] occurring on the mirror assembly.
[0016] In an embodiment, the present invention discloses a mirror assembly designed to mitigate fogging on its reflective surface, particularly in environments with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms.
[0017] The mirror assembly includes a reflective surface and a frame. The frame houses an airflow channel that allows fluid (typically ambient air) to flow through it. The airflow channel is equipped with a blower that force circulates the fluid through the channel. The blower is capable of circulating fluid at a rate of 10 to 80 liters per minute.
[0018] A heating module is coupled to the blower to warm the fluid before it is circulated through the airflow channel. The heating module can heat the fluid to a temperature range of 18°C to 45°C.
[0019] The frame includes a plurality of openings directed towards the reflective surface. These openings expel the heated fluid towards the reflective surface to drive away moisture and prevent fogging.
[0020] The mirror assembly further comprises a control device, which is designed to operate the blower and heating module only, when necessary, based on the moisture levels and a pre-set threshold value.
[0021] In a second embodiment, the present invention discloses a system for mitigating fogging on the mirror assembly.
[0022] The system includes sensors that detect the moisture level in the region where the mirror assembly is located. The sensors continuously or intermittently monitor moisture levels. These sensors generate signals indicative of the current moisture level.
[0023] The control device is communicably coupled to the sensors and operatively coupled to the blower and heating module. It determines if the moisture level is equal to or greater than a threshold value and operates the blower and heating module accordingly. The control device can also receive manual input from a user to operate the system.
[0024] In a third embodiment, the present invention discloses a method of mitigating fogging on the mirror assembly.
[0025] It involves generation of signals by one or more sensors indicative of a current moisture level in a region where the mirror assembly is located disposed, which are then received by the control device.
[0026] The control device determines if the moisture level is equal to or greater than a threshold value. Depending on the said analysis, the control device operates the defogging means by directing a heated fluid towards the reflective surface of the mirror assembly. The heated fluid is expelled through a plurality of openings towards the reflective surface to drive away moisture and mitigate fogging.
[0027] Upon the moisture level dropping below the threshold value, the control device stops the operation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0028] The present invention, both in terms of its organization and manner of operation, together with further objects and advantages, may best be understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings. These and other details of the present invention will be described in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are furnished only by way of illustration and not in limitation of the invention, and in which drawings:
[0029] Figure 1 is an exemplary schematic representation of an environment, in which a system for mitigating fogging in a mirror assembly is implemented, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0030] Figure 2A is schematic perspective views of portions of the mirror assembly of Figure 1, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0031] Figure 2B is a schematic front view of the mirror assembly of Figure 1, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0032] Figure 2C is a schematic rear view of the mirror assembly of Figure 1, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0033] Figure 2D is a schematic sectional view of a portion of a frame of the mirror assembly of Figure 1, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0034] Figure 2E is an enlarged sectional view of the airflow channel and the opening in the said channel;
[0035] Figures 2F and 2G are depictions of the arrangement of openings across the left and right side ducts, in the mirror assembly;
[0036] Figure 3 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for mitigating fogging in the mirror assembly of Figure 1, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and
[0037] Figure 4 is a depiction of temperature distribution on a reflective surface of the mirror assembly of Figure 1, in an example embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only one of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein. Example embodiments of the present invention are described below, as illustrated in various drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings.
[0039] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a mirror assembly and a system and a method adapted to mitigate fogging on a reflective surface of the mirror assembly. Embodiments described herein disclose a defogging means comprising an arrangement to blow heated air through openings provided on the mirror assembly, directed towards the reflective surface to mitigate condensation of moisture on the reflective surface, thereby mitigating fogging therein.
[0040] In the present invention, the reflective surface or the mirror is not heated by any means, unlike the prior arts wherein the defogging was primarily by heating the mirror surface. Hearing of reflective surface requires much more consumption of energy and time, and may pose a safety risk to a user when a mirror surface may become overheated.
[0041] The present invention overcomes the said drawback by directly removing moisture from the top of the mirror by utilizing hot air directed towards the mirror surface.
[0042] Figure 1 is an exemplary schematic representation of an environment [100], in which a system [120] for reducing fogging in a mirror assembly [200] may be implemented, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The environment [100] may include an enclosed space [102]. The enclosed space [102], as referred to herein, may have limited ventilation. Further, the enclosed space [102] may have one or more moisture sources [104] that are adapted to either introduce moisture into the enclosed space [102], increase a moisture content within the enclosed space [102], or a combination of both.
[0043] In an example embodiment, as visualized in Figure 1, the enclosed space [102] is a bathroom, comprising a moisture source [104]. The moisture source [104] may comprise of several alternative sources such as, a tap capable of providing running hot water, a shower with running hot water, a hot bath in a tub, or any other water source with a capacity to provide running hot water. In the illustrated example of Figure 1, the enclosed space [102] includes a single moisture source [104], namely, a shower running hot water.
[0044] The present invention discloses a defogging system. Specifically, the defogging relates to a mirror assembly [200] situated or located in the same enclosed space [102] comprising the moisture source [104]. The system [120] includes one or more sensors [122-1], [122-2] …[122-N] disposed in the enclosed space [102]. The one or more sensors [122-1], [122-2] …[122-N] may be individually referred to as “the sensor [122]” and collectively referred to as “the sensors [122]”. The sensors [122] are configured to detect/sense a level of moisture in the enclosed space [102] and generate signals indicative thereof. The sensors [122] may be disposed at different locations within the enclosed space [102], and may continuously, or intermittently, monitor the level of moisture in the enclosed space [102]. In an embodiment, the sensors [122] may be communicably coupled to one another via a communication network [124].
[0045] In an embodiment, the communication network [124] is a hardwired communication network. The hardwired communication network may be an optic cable, or a metallic cable provided in the enclosed space [102]. The hardwired communication network may be configured to transmit low amounts of data. Specifically, the hardwired communication network may be configured to transmit the signal generated by the sensors [122]. In another embodiment, the communication network [124] is a wireless communication network. The wireless communication network may be any wireless communication network capable of transferring data between entities of that network such as, without limitations, a carrier network including circuit switched network, a public switched network, a Content Delivery Network (CDN) network, a Long-Term Evolution (LTE) network, a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network and a Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) network, an Internet, intranets, local area networks, wide area networks, mobile communication networks, Bluetooth low energy (BLE) networks, and combinations thereof. Through the communication network [124], the sensors [122] may be configured to transmit signals to each other or to an external device.
[0046] The system [120] further includes the mirror assembly [200]. The mirror assembly [200] may be interchangeably referred to as “the assembly [200]”. The assembly [200] includes a reflective surface [202]. The reflective surface [202], in the presence of an increased level of moisture in the enclosed space [102], causes condensation of the moisture upon itself, causing fogging on the reflective surface [202]. To mitigate the said fogging, the assembly [200] includes a defogging means.
[0047] The system [120] further includes a control device [150]. The control device [150] is communicably coupled with the sensors [122] and operatively coupled with the defogging means of the assembly [200] via the communication network [124]. In an embodiment, the control device [150] is a relay coupled to a programmable logic controller (PLC). In a preferred embodiment, the control device [150] is a relay-based device, such as a smart relay, that is configured to operate the defogging means of the assembly [200].
[0048] In an embodiment, the control device [150] is configured to receive input from the sensors [122] on the state of the fogging on the reflective surface [202] and respond by operating the defogging means of the assembly [200]. In an alternate embodiment, the control device [150] is configured to receive input from a user of the assembly [200], and respond by operating the defogging means of the assembly [200]. In a preferred embodiment, the control device [150] is configured to receive inputs from any one or both of the sensors [122] and the user of the assembly [200].
[0049] Referring to Figures 2A – 2E, the mirror assembly [200] and the defogging means of the present invention is described hereinunder.
[0050] Figure 2A is schematic perspective views of portions of the assembly [200], according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. The assembly [200] comprises of a reflective surface [202]. Typically, the reflective surface [202] includes a base layer (not shown in figure) made of glass or metal, and a reflective layer (not shown in figure) disposed on top of the base layer, forming the reflective surface [202]. In an embodiment, the reflective surface may constitute a highly polished region of the base layer, where the region of the base layer may be polished by techniques, such as grinding, buffing, etc. In another embodiment, the reflective surface may be a coating disposed on the base layer.
[0051] The mirror assembly [200] further comprises of a frame [204]. In an embodiment, the reflective surface [202] is disposed within the frame [204].
[0052] In an embodiment, the frame [204] may be a permanent fixture to the reflective surface [202].
[0053] In an alternate embodiment, the frame [204] may be a detachable structure.
[0054] For the purposes of explaining and elaborating the functions of the defogging system [200], the present invention is described via an embodiment comprising a reflective surface [202] with a pre-fixed frame [204]. However, the same is not to be construed as a limitation to the implementation of the defogging system, which is the primary objective of the present invention.
[0055] Referring to Figure 2A, the frame [204] may include a cavity (not shown in figure) having a similar geometry as that of the reflective surface [202], and the cavity is adapted provide a tight fitment to reflective surface [202] with the frame [204]. The shape and dimensions of the cavity are relative to the shape and dimensions of the reflective surface, such as planar circular, or polygonal geometry. The geometry of the reflective surface [202] in Figure 2A is only an illustration and not a limitation.
[0056] In the illustrated example, the reflective surface [202] has a stadium geometry. The reflective surface [202] is disposed at a front of the assembly [200] and secured to the frame [204] by suitable means, such as, without limitations, adhesive means, fastening means, fusing means, and combinations thereof. Some examples of adhesive means include, without limitations, glue, cement, sealant adhesive, silicone adhesive, etc. Some examples of fastening means include, without limitations, clips, screws, bolts, etc. Some examples of fusing means include, without limitations, brazing, welding, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the reflective surface [202] is secured to the frame [204] using adhesive means.
[0057] In an embodiment, the frame [204] is made of lightweight materials, such as, without limitations, wood, plastic, metals, alloys, etc. In an embodiment, the assembly [200] also includes a back cover (not shown in figure) that is coupled to the frame [204]. In an embodiment, the frame [204] is coupled to the back cover using fastening means such as, screws.
[0058] Further, the reflective surface [202] is disposed on the frame [204], such that a first portion [206] of the frame [204] extends outwards from a plane of the reflective surface [202]. Specifically, the first portion [206] of the frame [204] lies along a perimeter of the reflective surface [202] and forms a border to the reflective surface [202].
[0059] The first portion [206] of the frame [204] is at least partially hollow, including an annular region (not shown in figure) that traversing along at least a portion of a length of the first portion [206]. In an embodiment, the annular region traverses along any one or a combination sides, bottom and top of the assembly [200]. In a preferred embodiment, the annular region traverses at least along the sides and the bottom of the assembly [200]. The annular region is adapted to allow flow of a fluid therethrough.
[0060] Figure 2B is a schematic front view of the assembly [200] of Figure 1, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0061] Referring to Figure 2B, the first portion [206] of the frame [204] includes a plurality of openings [208-1], [208-2] … [208-N] directed towards and at the reflective surface [202]. The plurality of openings [208-1], [208-2] … [208-N] may be individually referred to as “the opening [208]”, and collectively referred to as “the openings [208]”. The openings [208] may have a predefined geometric profile. In an embodiment, the predefined geometric profiles are selected from polygonal, circular profiles, or a combination of both. In a preferred embodiment, the predefined geometric profile is trapezoid.
[0062] Figure 2C is a schematic rear view of the assembly [200] of Figure 1. Referring to Figure 2C, the assembly [200] includes the airflow channel [210]. The airflow channel [210] includes one or more passageways coupled in series and adapted to allow passage to flow of a fluid therethrough. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid is ambient air. In a preferred embodiment, the ambient air is a heated ambient air.
[0063] The airflow channel [210] is arranged such that it is coupled to the annular region of the first portion [206] of the frame [204]. Specifically, the airflow channel [210] is arranged such that it is fluidically coupled to the openings [208] disposed on the first portion [206] of the frame [204].
[0064] The airflow channel [210] includes an inlet [212] adapted to receive the fluid therein, and an outlet [214] for the fluid to exit the airflow channel [210]. The positioning of the inlet [212] and the outlet [214] are dependent on design considerations, geometry of the reflective surface and the time within which defogging is to be achieved. Therefore, the placement of the inlet [212] and the outlet [214] are not limitations to the implementation of the present invention. As visualized in Figure 2C, the inlet [212] and outlet [214] are disposed proximate each other.
[0065] In an alternate embodiment, the annular region of the first portion [206] of the frame [204] may be adapted such that the annular region constitutes at least a portion of the airflow channel [210] therein. In such an embodiment, the inlet [212] and outlet [214] may be fluidically coupled to the annular region of the first portion [206] of the frame [204].
[0066] Further, the assembly [200] includes a blower [220]. The blower [220] is fluidically coupled to the inlet [212] and is configured to force circulate a fluid (e.g., ambient air) through the inlet [212] and through the airflow channel [210]. In an embodiment, the blower [220] is configured to force circulate fluid at a rate of between about 10 liters per minute (lpm) and about 80 lpm. In a preferred embodiment, the blower [220] is configured to force circulate the fluid at a rate of between about 30 lpm and about 50 lpm.
[0067] The positioning of the blower [220] is relative to the placement of the frame [204] in the assembly [200].
[0068] In an embodiment, where the frame [204] is an inherent structure of the assembly [200], then the blower [220] is accommodated within the frame [204] of the assembly [200]. In such an embodiment, the blower [220] may be disposed within the frame [204] at any location.
[0069] In an embodiment, the blower [220] may be placed at any location such as towards any of bottom, sides, and top of the assembly [200].
[0070] In an alternate embodiment, the blower [220] may be positioned either relative to the frame [204] or relative to the reflective surface [202], depending on the configuration of the reflective surface [202] and requirement.
[0071] As visualized in Figure 2C, the blower [220] is arranged towards the top of the assembly [200]. In such an arrangement, the inlet [212] is also arranged at the top of the assembly [200], preferably proximate to the blower [220].
[0072] Further, the assembly [200] includes a heating module [222] thermally coupled to the blower [220] and configured to heat the fluid before the fluid is force circulated by the blower [220] through the inlet [212] and into the airflow channel [210]. The heating module [222] may be operatively coupled to the control device [150] and may be operable by the control device [150] based on signals received from the sensors [122].
[0073] To implement defogging on the reflective surface [202], the heating module [222] heats the fluid to a temperature range suited for the purposes. Typically, in a wet environment such as the enclosure [102], the heating module [222] may be configured to heat the fluid to a temperature at a range of 18? to 45?. In a preferred embodiment, the heating range is between 30 ? and 40 ?.
[0074] The heated fluid is then directed towards the reflective surface [202] through the blower [220], which causes the surface temperature of the reflective surface [202] to rise, thereby causing any moisture already condensed on the reflective surface [202] to evaporate at a higher rate. The evaporated moisture is simultaneously driven away by the continuous blowing action of the hot air from the openings [208]. Thus, using heated fluid may result in more effective mitigation of fogging of the reflective surface [202].
[0075] In an embodiment, the heating module [222] may be an active heating module, including resistive and/or inductive elements adapted to be electrically heated. The heat generated may be exchanged with the fluid prior to the fluid being circulated. Some examples of active heating modules include, without limitations, a Peltier module, a thermoelectric heater, a resistive coil heater, an inductive heater, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the heating module [222] may be a passive heating module, where the heating module [222] may use heat from an external source and transfer it to the fluid prior to the fluid being circulated. Some examples of external sources of heat are, without limitations, hot water running from a tap, heat from lights present in the enclosed space [102], and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, a passive heating module is provided in the assembly [200]. An obvious advantage of the passive heating module is that additional energy may not be required in order to heat the fluid.
[0076] In an embodiment, the assembly [200] may further include a temperature sensor [224] disposed proximate the inlet [212] and configured to sense a temperature of the fluid entering the inlet [212] and generate signals indicative thereof. The temperature sensor [224] is communicably coupled to the control device [150]. The control device [150] is configured to operate the heating module [222]. It is also configured to receive signals from the temperature sensors [224], such that the control device [150] registers the value of the temperature of the fluid entering the inlet [212].
[0077] Referring to Figures 2D – 2G, it discloses sectional views of the frame [204], and identifies the geometry and cross section of the openings [208].
[0078] As visualized in Figures 2F and 2G, the openings [208] are distributed across the airflow channel [210] to blow heated fluid across the reflective surface [202]. An enlarged view of the openings [208] identifies the same to be distributed equidistantly across the airflow channel [210].
[0079] As visualized in Figure 2E, the air flow channel [210] is a trapezoidal structure comprising the opening [208] at one of its sides, preferably towards the reflective surface [202]. The opening [208] is also identified to be a trapezoidal structure configured to expel heated fluid.
[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the opening [208] is a rectangular structure comprising of angular orientations, designed specifically to maximize hot air distribution across the reflective surface [202].
[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the opening [208] is configured to contain angular orientations both horizontally and vertically.
[0082] In an embodiment, the opening [208] may be angularly oriented in a range of 8 – 12 degrees vertically or across the height of the opening [208].
[0083] In an embodiment, the opening [208] may be angularly oriented in a range of 3-7 degrees horizontally or across the length of the opening [208].
[0084] In an embodiment, the opening [208] is configured to have a cross-sectional area ranging from 20 - 50 mm2 so as to expel a suitably large volume of fluid at a high velocity in order to clear moisture and condensation from the reflective surface [202].
[0085] Referring also to Figure 1, the blower [220] is operatively coupled to the control device [150]. The control device [150] is configured to operate the blower [220] to force circulate fluid through the airflow channel [210] based on signals received from at least the sensors [122]. When the blower [220] is operated, fluid is force circulated through the airflow channel [210]. The fluid therein is then expelled out through the openings [208] towards the reflective surface [202]. The fluid flow directed towards the reflective surface [208] clears any moisture present proximal to the reflective surface [202] and thereby mitigates condensation of the moisture against the reflective surface [202].
[0086] In an alternate embodiment (not depicted in figures), the assembly [200] includes the reflective surface [202] without a frame. The reflective surface [202] is mounted on a surface, such as a wall, without the frame. The airflow channel [210] is arranged around a perimeter of the reflective surface [202]. The openings [208] are fluidically coupled to the airflow channel [210] and disposed about the reflective surface [202], such that the fluid expelled therefrom is directed towards the reflective surface [202].
[0087] Referring to Figures 1 to 2G, in an embodiment, the control device [150] is configured to receive, from the sensors [122], signals indicative of a current moisture level in the enclosed space [202]. In another embodiment, the control device [150] is configured to determine, based on location of the respective sensors [122] in the enclosed space [202], localized levels of moisture in the enclosed space [202] corresponding to locations of the sensors [122].
[0088] In an embodiment, the control device [150] is configured to determine and/or predict if the moisture level in the enclosed space [102] is equal to or greater than a threshold value. The threshold value may relate to a level of moisture in the enclosed space [102] that may likely result in condensation and consequent fogging of the reflective surface [202] of the assembly [200]. In an embodiment, the threshold value is equal to or greater than 70%.
[0089] In another embodiment, the responsive to determining that the moisture level in the enclosed space [102] is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the control device [150] is configured to operate the blower [220] to force circulate fluid, so as to expel the fluid towards the reflective surface [202] of the assembly [200]. The expelled fluid drives the moisture away from the reflective surface [202] thereby mitigating fogging. Further, in some embodiments, based on determining that the moisture level in the enclosed space is much greater than the first threshold value (e.g., greater than 50%), the control device [150] is configured to operate the heating module [222]. The heated fluid then expelled towards the reflective surface [202] further raises the temperature of the reflective surface [202] further mitigating fogging of the reflective surface [202].
[0090] In an embodiment, the control device [150] is configured to continuously and/or intermittently monitor the moisture levels in the enclosed space [202]. In response to the moisture levels in the enclosed space [202] decreasing below the threshold value, the control device [150] is configured to operate the blower [220] and the heating module [222] to stop their respective operations, as there may not be a requirement to defog the reflective surface [202] at lower levels of moisture. As a result, the control device [150] facilitates energy saving by operating the blower [220] and heater [222] only when required.
[0091] In another embodiment, the control device [150] is further configured to operate the blower [220] and heater [222] based on a manual input received. The manual input may be received in the form of an activation signal from a user of the assembly [100]. In a preferred embodiment, the control device [150] is still, subsequently, configured to stop operations of the blower [220] and heater [222] based on decreased moisture levels.
[0092] Figure 3 is a schematic flow diagram for a method [300] for mitigating fogging in the assembly [200], according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to Figures 1 to 3, in an embodiment, at step [302], the method [300] includes receiving, by the control device [150], from the sensors [122], signals indicative of a current moisture level in the enclosed space [202].
[0093] In an embodiment, the method [300] further includes collating, by the control device [150], all the signals received, and further determining, by the control device [150], the average moisture level in the enclosed space [202]. In another embodiment, the method [300] includes determining, by the control device [150], based on location of the respective sensors [122] in the enclosed space [202], localized levels of moisture in the enclosed space [202] corresponding to locations of the sensors [122]. The method [300] further includes determining or predicting, by the control device [150], the level of moisture in the vicinity of the assembly [200] based on the trend of moisture levels detected by the sensors [122]. In an embodiment, the method [300] includes determining and/or predicting, by the control device [150], if the moisture level in the enclosed space [102] is equal to or greater than a threshold value.
[0094] In an embodiment, at step [304], the method [300] includes, responsive to the moisture level in the enclosed space [102] being equal to or greater than the threshold value, operating, by the control device [150], the blower [220] to force circulate fluid, so as to expel the fluid towards the reflective surface [202] of the assembly [200].
[0095] Further, in an embodiment, the method [300] further includes, responsive to the moisture level in the enclosed space being substantially greater than the first threshold value (e.g., greater than 50%), also operating, by the control device [150], the heating module [222].
[0096] In an embodiment, the method [300] further includes continuously and/or intermittently monitoring, by the control device [150], the moisture levels in the enclosed space [102]. Responsive to the moisture levels in the enclosed space [102] decreasing below the threshold value, the method [300] further includes operating, by the control device [150], the blower [220] and the heating module [222] to stop their respective operations.
[0097] In another embodiment, the method [300] further includes operating, by the control device [150], the blower [220] and heater [222] based on a manual input received. In a preferred embodiment, the method [300] further includes stopping, by the control device [150], subsequently, the operations of the blower [220] and heater [222] based on decreased moisture levels.
[0098] To demonstrate the effects of the present invention, a mirror assembly [200] was fabricated with the following parameters.
[0099] In this example embodiment, the mirror assembly [200] comprises a reflective surface [202] of a stadium or shape comprising two curved sides and two straight sides.
Opening surface area of Per opening Opening Angle inwards tilt (centre) Air Flow rate Ambient temperature Pitch distance between opening Duct to Duct (mm)
40-50mm2 • Y-axis by 10°
• X-axis by 5°
10CFM-15CFM 20.2°C-22°C
45 ~ 55 mm 400-500
[0100] Typically, in such a configuration, the defogging action is performed along the length of the mirror, i.e., the openings [208] are configured to be located only on the lengths of the reflective surface [202], i.e., positioned on either side of the reflective surface [202].
[0101] For an effective defogging, the width of the reflective surface [202] or the "duct to duct distance," is an important consideration. It refers to the spacing between the two straight sides of the reflective surface or the width of the reflective surface [202] wherein the air flow channel [210] is positioned. This measurement is crucial for efficient airflow, while ensuring effective heat distribution.
[0102] In the example embodiment, the distance between each opening or the pitch distance was maintained between 45 ~ 55 mm and an optimal mirror width was maintained between 400-500 mm.
[0103] In this embodiment, the openings [208] were tested for efficacy at an ambient temperature of 20.2°C-22°C. It was observed that there was a marked defogging of about (70-80) % at 30 seconds and a (90-95) % defogging at 50 seconds and a maximum of 98% defogging at 68 seconds.
[0104] While the example embodiment was illustrated with a mirror assembly [200] comprising a certain shape and dimensions, it is to be appreciated that the mirror assembly [200] may be configured to be of both regular shapes and irregular shapes such as irregular polygons and like shapes.
[0105] In such a varied configuration, the openings [208] may be positioned on the entire outline of the reflective surface [202] or be positioned only partially on the outline of the reflective surface [202]. The shape of the reflective surface [202] is determinant of the placement of the openings [208].
[0106] In an embodiment, where the reflective surface [202] comprises of a regular shape, with defined lengths and width of the reflective surface [202], and is designed to comprise of openings [208] to be arranged on either side of the reflective surface [202], then the duct-to-duct distance may be configured to be in the range 400-500 mm to achieve maximum defogging efficiency.
[0107] Figure 4 is a depiction of the hot air distribution model, in an exemplary depiction, based on the parameters listed above. Figure 4 is an image [400] depicting the extent of defogging through the temperature distribution via hot air distribution across the surface of the reflective surface [202] of the assembly [200].
[0108] Although particular embodiments have been disclosed herein in detail, this is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended in any way to limit the intended scope of the invention. Variations and adaptations of the system as described herein do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention and are within the expertise of a person skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:

1. A mirror assembly [200], comprising:
a reflective surface [202];
a frame [204] to surround the reflective surface [202];
an airflow channel [210] disposed within the frame [202];
a plurality of openings [208] located in the airflow channel [210];
wherein the opening [208] is directed towards the reflective surface [202]; and
a defogging means.
2. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the defogging means comprises of:
a blower [220] disposed at the rear of the reflective surface [202]; and
a heating module [222] coupled to the blower [220], configured to heat an ambient fluid before it is circulated to the blower [220].
3. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 2, wherein the blower [220] is configured to circulate heated fluid, received from the heating module [220], through the airflow channel [210] and out through the openings [208] towards the reflective surface [202].
4. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 3, wherein the heating module [222] is a passive heating module that utilizes heat from an external source.
5. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 4, wherein the external source of heat is selected from hot water running from a tap, heat from lights present in the enclosed space, or combinations thereof.
6. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a control device [150] operatively coupled to the defogging means; and wherein the control device [150] is configured to operate the blower [220] and the heating module [222] based on detected moisture levels.
7. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the opening [208] may have a predefined geometric profile selected from polygonal or circular profiles.
8. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claims 1 and 7, wherein the opening [208] comprises of an angular orientation both horizontally and vertically.
9. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claims 1 and 8, wherein the opening [208] is oriented angularly in the range of 3-7 degrees horizontally; and wherein the [208] is oriented angularly in the range of 8-12 degrees vertically.
10. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame [204] may be a permanent fixture or a detachable frame.
11. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame includes a cavity adapted to provide a tight fitment to the reflective surface.
12. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the openings [208] are distributed along the frame [204] in an annular region in a first portion [206] of the frame [204] to direct the fluid towards the reflective surface [202].
13. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the airflow channel [210] includes an inlet [212] and an outlet [214] to allow ingress and egress of the fluid.
14. The mirror assembly [200] as claimed in claims 1 and 13, wherein the assembly further comprises a temperature sensor [224] disposed proximate the inlet [212], configured to sense the temperature of the fluid entering the inlet and generate signals indicative thereof.
15. A system for mitigating fogging in a mirror assembly [200], the system comprising:
a reflective surface [202];
a frame [204] to surround the reflective surface [202];
an airflow channel [210] disposed within the frame [202];
a plurality of openings [208] located in the airflow channel [210];
wherein the opening [208] is directed towards the reflective surface [202];
a defogging means.;
One or more sensors [122] configured to detect a level of moisture in a region [102] where the mirror assembly [200] is disposed and generate signals indicative thereof; and
A control device [150] configured to operate the defogging means based on the detected moisture level.
16. The system as claimed in claim 15, wherein the defogging means comprises of:
a blower [220] disposed at the rear of the reflective surface [202]; and
a heating module [222] coupled to the blower [220], configured to heat an ambient fluid before it is circulated to the blower [220].
17. The system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the blower [220] is configured to circulate heated fluid, received from the heating module [220], through the airflow channel [210] and out through the openings [208] towards the reflective surface [202].
18. The system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the blower is configured to force circulate fluid at a rate of between about 10 liters per minute (lpm) and about 80 lpm.
19. The system as claimed in claims 15 and 16, wherein the control device [150] is configured to operate the blower [220] and the heating module [222] when the moisture level is equal to or greater than a threshold value.
20. The system as claimed in claims 15 and 16, wherein the control device [150] is configured to stop the operation of the blower [220] and the heating module [222] when the moisture level is below the threshold value.
21. The system as claimed in claims 15 and 16, wherein the control device [150] is configured to receive manual input from a user the blower [220] and the heating module [222].
22. The system as claimed in claim 15, wherein the sensors [122] are positioned at different locations within the region [102] to continuously or intermittently monitor the moisture levels.
23. The system as claimed in claims 15 and 16, wherein the heating module [222] is configured to heat the fluid to a temperature range of 18°C to 45°C.
24. The system as claimed in claim 15, further comprising a temperature sensor [224] disposed proximate an inlet [212] of the airflow channel [210]; and wherein the sensor [224] is configured to sense the temperature of the fluid entering the inlet [212] and generate signals indicative thereof.
25. The system as claimed in claims 15 and 24, wherein the control device [150] is configured to receive signals from the temperature sensor [224] and operate the heating module [222] based on the sensed temperature of the fluid.
26. A method for mitigating fogging in a mirror assembly [200], the method comprising:
Generating signals by one or more sensors [122] indicative of a current moisture level in a region [102] where the mirror assembly [200] is disposed;
Receiving the signals by a control device [150];
Determination by the control device [150], if the moisture level is equal to or greater than a threshold value;
Engagement of a defogging means by the control device [150], to direct a heated fluid towards a reflective surface [202] of the mirror assembly [200]; and
Expelling the heated fluid through a plurality of openings [208] towards the reflective surface [202] to drive away moisture and mitigate fogging.
27. A method as claimed in claim 26, wherein the heated fluid is ambient air.
28. A method as claimed in claim 26, wherein the ambient air is heated by a heating module [222] prior to circulation through an airflow channel [210].
29. A method as claimed in claim 26, further comprising determining localized levels of moisture in the region [102] based on the location of the respective sensors.
30. A method as claimed in claim 26, wherein the control device [150] operates the defogging means based on the threshold value; and wherein the control device [150] stops the operation of the blower [220] and the heating module [222] when the moisture level is below the threshold value.
31. A method as claimed in claim 26, wherein the control device [150] controls the heating module [222] based on a temperature sensed by a temperature sensor [224] located at an inlet [212] of the airflow channel [210].