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 inside rear view mirror (4) options. 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 camera pod (2) and the rectangular forward-facing clear lens. Because the SmartBeam(R) camera looks through the windshield, the system may not function properly if this area of the glass is covered with ice, dirt, haze or any other obstruction.

The camera pod is secured to a bracket (3) that extends from the integral mounting bracket (1) of the electrochromic inside rear view mirror. Within the camera pod is the circuit board and circuitry of the camera. The camera pod and bracket as well as the Light Rain Sensor Module (LRSM) (also known as the Rain Sensor Module/RSM or Light Sensor Module/LSM) are located just below the rear view mirror mounting button on the inside of the windshield glass, where they are both concealed from view within the vehicle interior behind a two piece clamshell-like mirror bracket trim cover.

The digital imager camera is aimed so as to view a predetermined area in the path directly ahead of the vehicle. 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) (also known as the Auto High Beam Module/AHBM) are integral to the circuit board contained within the electrochromic mirror. A short pigtail wire connects the camera circuit board directly to the electrochromic mirror circuit board, and a connector receptacle integral to the forward-facing housing of the electrochromic 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 electrochromic inside rear view mirror. If the SmartBeam(R) camera, lens, circuitry or bracket is damaged or ineffective, the entire electrochromic inside rear view mirror must be replaced.