Inside-rear view mirror (IRVM) helps drivers to see what’s behind the vehicle. They are of tremendous value when it comes to safety and watchful driving. An auto-dimming IRVM is a special type of mirror that has an element of an electronic system to detect lights. With the help of photo sensors, they automatically adjust incoming lights from cars behind to offer a non-glaring mirror view to drivers. Mounted on the car’s windshield, this device aids during low-light conditions or night driving.
How Does Auto-Dimming IRVM Work?
As a modern safety feature, it is recommended to buy a car that has an IRVM installed. If your vehicle does not have an in-built system, you can always purchase them from outside. The working mechanism of auto-dimming IRVM in a car is explained below:
An auto-dimming IRVM is an electrochromic device that allows automatic adjustment of light reflections from other vehicles through a change in opacity. This happens because a gel-like material on the surface of the mirror glares differently upon being hit by an electric source.
Special sensors mounted on these IRVMs immediately capture any change in the intensity of incoming light, enabling auto-dimming as and when required.
The detection of high-intensity light triggers a response from the control unit in the form of an auto-dimming activation that guides the premise of the device’s working.
- Electrochromic Activation
The activated control unit darkens the mirror by sending an electric current to its coating, initiating a reverse reaction.
The gel helps direct the mirror to reflect less light, dimming the glare from car headlights behind.
- Continuous Monitoring and Restoring Normalcy
Once the source light has sufficiently dimmed, the reversible process of colour change and brightening takes over to ensure that conditions are optimal for safe driving. This happens via adjustments in the electric current emitted by the sensors to trigger the mirror’s electrochromic layer so that the IRVM functions as any ordinary rear-view mirror.
Advantages of Auto-Dimming IRVM
With a primary aim to provide a safe driving experience during low-light conditions, let’s look at the benefits of using an auto-dimming IRVM in a car:
A prime feature of this IRVM is the automatic adjustment of reflections generated by the high-beam headlights of other vehicles. This protects the driver from the blinding effect of the light from behind.
These IRVMs, because of their electrochromic ability, effectively manage light conditions to enhance on-road visibility.
Better on-road visibility translates to greater road safety since drivers do not lose focus. Knowing that such a feature exists to prevent sudden changes in brightness also helps drivers concentrate more on their driving.
Auto-dimming IRVMs are particularly helpful in controlling nighttime conditions.
The reversible mechanism in auto-dimming IRVM facilitates conversion to normal mirror viewing during ideal driving conditions. This contributes to smooth experience with reduced risks.
Uses of Auto-dimming IRVM
These special mirrors have upgraded automobile driving to new standards of safety and comfort. Here’s a look at its uses:
- Auto-dimming IRVM improves drivers' visibility by helping them react more swiftly to possible risks. It also helps them view and avoid blind spots, reducing the risk of accidents.
- It effectively cuts off the glare from high-beam headlights and reduces eye strain, which can cause fatigue and discomfort while driving. It is useful during long-duration drives, which generally put more stress on the eyes.
- Unlike ordinary rear-view mirrors, the automatic dimming feature means that IRVMs do not need to be continuously adjusted or flipped to reduce the glaring effect of bright lights.
- Auto-dimming can also assist in vehicle parking by facilitating better assessment of the surrounding spaces from a distance.
Conclusion
The auto-dimming IRVM in cars is a wonderful technology of the modern automobile industry. Vehicles with this feature are labeled as ‘auto-dimming’, ‘electrochromic’, or EC for easy identification.
Remember to get the best car insurance policy for maximum coverage for your vehicle.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.