GB2495838A

GB2495838A - Mirror assembly with adjustable positioning mechanism

Info

Publication number: GB2495838A
Application number: GB201218716A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Neil Schofield
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-10-18
Filing date: 2012-10-18
Publication date: 2013-04-24
Anticipated expiration: 2032-10-18
Also published as: GB2495727A; GB201218716D0; GB2495838B; GB201117934D0

Abstract

A mirror assembly 110 is provided which comprises a mirror 112, a mechanism for connecting the mirror to a structural support (132 in Figure 22) and an adjustable positioning mechanism (124 in Figure 23) for adjusting the distance between the mirror and the structural support. This may allow mirror 112 to be angled to any desired angular position. It is envisaged that mirror assembly 110 will have particular application in viewing sexual activity, because mirror assembly 110 may be easily attached to a ceiling and later repositioned on a wall. The adjustable positioning mechanism may comprise a plurality of elongate members 130, which may be adjustable in length, preferably by a telescopic mechanism, may be adjustable independently, and may be pivotally connected to the mirror 112. The mirror may be provided with a plurality of apertures 125, and the elongate members 130 may be provided with spherical members 129 for the mirror to rest upon. The assembly may be releasably connected using a first connector (32 in Figure 2) and a second connector (41 in Figure 2).

Description

Mirror Assembly

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to mirror assemblies, particularly to mirror assemblies configured to be capable of being mounted to both a ceiling and a wall and be configured to move there between. The present invention also relates to mirror assemblies configured to be capable of being mounted to a horizontal surface such as a ceiling in which the height of the mirror assembly with respect to the horizontal surface and/or the angle of the mirror with respect to the horizontal surface can be altered whilst mounted on the horizontal surface.

Background of the Invention

Typically household mirrors are configured either to be mounted to a vertical wall or to be free standing. Such mirrors may be provided with a frame for aesthetic reasons. In the case of mirrors that are configured to be mounted to a wall this frame may also be used to permanently secure such a mirror in a desired position.

Alternatively, the mirror may be directly attached in position using, for example, screw fixings, which may be obscured with covers. Such wall mounted mirrors are typically configured to stay fixed in a single position on a wall rather than being configured to be moved to a different position on the same wall or even to a different wall. However, due to the fact that most wall mirrors are hung or hooked over a permanent fixing in the wall it is possible to remove the mirror from the wall if desired, leaving the permanent fixing in place on the wall.

Attempts have been made to provide mirrors configured to be mounted to a horizontal surface such as a ceiling instead of a vertical wall. However, such mirrors are typically permanently fixed in a single position without being readily removed from this fixed position once in situ. Furthermore, such mirrors also cannot have their height or angle adjusted, relative to such a horizontal surface.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a mirror assembly comprising a mirror, a means for connecting the mirror to a structural support and an adjustable positioning means for adjusting the distance between the mirror and the structural support.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a mirror assembly comprising a mirror, a means for connecting the mirror to a structural support and an adjustable positioning means is configured for adjusting the distance between the mirror and the structural support.

Preferably the adjustable positioning means comprises a plurality of elongate members.

Preferably the plurality of elongate members are adjustable in length.

Preferably the plurality of elongate members are adjustable in length by means of a telescopic mechanism.

Preferably the telescopic mechanism comprises a plurality of tubes configured to slide in and out of each other.

Preferably the telescopic mechanism comprises complimentary screw threads provided on a plurality of tubes configured to twist in and out of each other.

Preferably the length of each elongate member can be adjusted independently of the other elongate members.

Preferably the plurality of elongate members are fixed in length.

Preferably the plurality of elongate members are pivotally connected to the mirror.

Preferably the mirror is provided with a plurality of apertures configured to receive an elongate member and wherein each elongate member is provided with a spherical member larger than the diameter of the aperture upon which the mirror is configured to rest.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a mirror assembly comprising a mirror, a first connector and a second connector wherein the first connector is configured to connect to the mirror and releasably connect to the second connector and wherein the second connector is configured for connecting to a structural support.

Preferably the first connector is configured to releasably connect to the mirror.

Preferably the second connector is configured for permanently connecting to a structural support.

Preferably the first connector comprises an engagement member and the second connector comprises an aperture configured to receive the engagement member.

Preferably the second connector further comprises a seating configured to be angularly off-set from the aperture and receive the engagement member upon rotation of the engagement member after the engagement member after being received by the aperture.

Preferably the engagement member is substantially planar.

Preferably the engagement member is in the shape of a cyclic polygon.

Preferably the aperture is in the shape of a cyclic polygon.

Preferably the seating is in the shape of a cyclic polygon.

Preferably the seating is provided with an aperture extending through the second connector for determining when the engagement member has been received by the seating.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a mirror assembly comprising a mirror, a rear support member disposed behind the rear surface of the mirror, adjustable positioning means attached to the rear support member, a first connector means mounted to the adjustable positioning means and second connector means for attaching to a structural support, the first connector means being releasably engageable with the second connector means.

An advantage of the mirror assembly is that the second connector can be mounted to a wall, ceiling or other structural support and the first connector can be reasably connected thereto, enabling convenient positioning of the mirror. A number of second connectors may be provided for mounting in different positions, enabling straightforward repositioning of the mirror.

Furthermore, the positioning means enables the face of the mirror to be angled relative to the connectors.

The rear support member may be a back board.

The mirror may be attached to the rear support member by a frame. A circular rim may be provided around the mirror and attached to the back board, if desired.

The mirror may double sided and the frame may be releasable for enabling selection of a forward facing side of the mirror. The reflective surface of the mirror may be tinted a particular colour on one or both sides of the mirror.

The adjustable positioning means may include a plurality of elongate members, which may be adjustable in length. Ideally, there are three elongate members.

The elongate members may be telescopic and may be locked in a desired position by means of rotating collars.

The elongate members are adapted to lie substantially flat against the rear support member in a first position and extended from the rear support member in a second position.

In an alternative arrangement, the adjustable positioning means may be provided by one or more chains, which can be varied in length, preferably at the point of connection to the rear support member and/or the first connector means.

The first connector means may include a central support spigot attached to the positioning means substantially at one end thereof and an engagement member disposed at the other end of the central support spigot.

The engagement member may be substantially planar and may substantially a cyclic polygon. The engagement member may include three arm areas extending from a central area, the arm areas being equi-angularly spaced. Other shapes of engagement member may be utilised, for example, star shapes or other geometrical or non-geometrical shapes, The second connector means may include a mounting member, the mounting member having an aperture in at least a lower face thereof through which the engagement member can pass.

A seating corresponding to the shape of the engagement member may be provided in a lower wall of the mounting member, the engagement member being engaged in the seating by passing the engagement member through the aperture in the lower face of the mounting member and rotating the engagement member.

A viewing aperture may be provided through the mounting member for determining when the engagement member is located in the seating.

A cover may be provided for attachment to the mounting member. The cover obscures the means for fastening the mounting member to the structural support.

The fastening means may be screws and the screw heads may be obscured by the cover.

A viewing aperture may also be provided through the cover member for determining when the engagement member is located in the seating. The viewing apertures in the cover and mounting member may be aligned.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 illustrates a perspective exploded view of a mirror assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates a perspective exploded view of the adjustable positioning means and first and second connectors of the mirror assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the mirror assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention from the rear; Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of the engagement member of the first connector passing through the aperture in the second connector of the mirror assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the engagement member of the first connector engaged in the seat of the second connector of the mirror assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 illustrates a side view of the mirror assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 illustrates a top perspective view of the mirror assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 illustrates a bottom side perspective view of the mirror assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 illustrates a top side perspective view of the mirror assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 illustrates an exploded view of the elongate member according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 illustrates an assembled view of the elongate member according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 to 16 illustrate the extension of an elongate member through an aperture in the mirror from various angles according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figures 17 to 19 illustrate the interengagement of the first and second connectors from various angles according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 20 illustrates an exploded view of the adjustable positioning means and first and second connectors according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 21 illustrates an assembled view of the adjustable positioning means and first and second connectors according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 22 illustrates a partially exploded view of the adjustable positioning means and first and second connectors according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 23 illustrates an assembled view of the adjustable positioning means and first and second connectors according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 24 illustrates the rotation mechanism according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 25 illustrates the ability of the mirror to be angled with respect to the first connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figures 26a to 26d illustrate a third embodiment of the present invention; Figure 27 illustrates an embodiment of the mirror with handles; Figure 28 illustrates a fourth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 29 illustrates a fifth embodiment of the present invention; Figures 30a to 30b illustrate a sixth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 31 illustrates an embodiment of the mirror assembly with a remote control winch; Figures 32a to 33b illustrate embodiments of the mirror assembly with chains; Figure 34 illustrates alternate elongate members for the mirror assembly; Figure 35 illustrates an alternate embodiment having a single alternate elongate member; Figure 36 illustrates an alternate embodiment having a scissor extender instead of an elongate member; Figure 37 illustrates an alternate embodiment having GorillaPod (RTM) legs; and Figure 38 illustrates an alternate embodiment having magnetic first and second on n ecto rs.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments

Figures 1 and 3 illustrate a mirror assembly 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Mirror assembly 10 includes a mirror 12 configured to be supported on a rear support member or backboard 14. A frame 16 is provided which is configured to connect mirror 12 to backboard 14. Frame 16 is provided in two parts, a first part 18 which is configured to extend around a substantial portion of the periphery of mirror 12 and a second part 20 which is configured to sit on top of first part 16 and hold mirror 12 in place. In this arrangement mirror 12 is substantially sandwiched between the rear of second part 20 and the forward face of backboard 14. In the embodiment illustrated, mirror 12 is circular, although it will be appreciated that the mirror can be provided in other shapes, as desired and the backboard and frame can also be provided in corresponding shapes. Mirror 12 has reflective surfaces on both sides thereof, and one or both of these sides may be tinted in a particular colour-way, to match with, for example the decor in a particular room. In an alternative mirror 12 is only provided with a single reflective surface on one side of the mirror, the other side of the mirror being a decorative image or blank.

In a further alternative mirror 12 is provided with reflective surfaces on both sides thereof, both having a different magnification. In one alternative the mirror is formed from an acrylic plastics material which is lightweight and shatterproof. In a further alternative the mirror is provided with handles, as illustrated in Figure 27.

A logo or brand name (not shown) can optionally be cut into backboard 14 along with other indicia, which may be viewed when mirror assembly 10 is displayed in-store for sale, or is moved away from a mounted position on a wall! ceiling or other structural support.

An adjustable positioning means 24 is mounted to the rear of backboard 14 and in use can be used to change the angle or position of mirror 12 relative to the mounting point of mirror assembly 10. Adjustable positioning means 24 includes three elongate members 30 each configured to be connected to backboard 14 at one end and to a first connector 32 at the other end. Figure 34 illustrates alternate examples of elongate members, namely telescopic, screw threaded, or of a fixed length. In an alternative a different number of elongate members may be provided, for example one, two, four or five elongate members may be provided. Figure 35 illustrates an example with a single elongate member. Elongate members 30 are telescopic in the first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5. Elongate members 30 may in one alternative comprise a series of tubes configured to slide in and out of each other as illustrated in Figures 1 to 5. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 elongate members 30 are each provided in three rigid parts 11, 13, 15 of similar length configured to slide in and out of each other, which can be locked together in substantially any desired overall length by virtue of two locking collars 17, 19, provided at the ends of central part 13. In another alternative the telescopic mechanism may comprise a screw thread as illustrated in Figures 10 and 11 in respect of the second embodiment of the present invention.

Elongate members 30 are each configured to be pivotally connected to backboard 14 at one end. In one alternative elongate members 30 are pivotally connected using brackets 26. Brackets 26 illustrated are substantially U-shaped and are attached to the rear of backboard 14 close to the periphery thereof and are equally angularly spaced apart. The same number of brackets 26 are provided as are elongate members 30. If only one elongate member 30 is provided then bracket 26 should be mounted in the centre of backboard 14. Brackets 26 are each provided with a supporting pin 28 extending between side members of brackets 26.

Supporting pins 28 are configured to extend through corresponding apertures 29 provided in the respective elongate members 30.

Elongate members 30 are also each configured to be pivotally connected to first connector 32. In one alternative elongate members 30 are pivotally connected to first connector 32 by similar U-shaped brackets 34 and pins 36, which form the pivot points.

Using the above described arrangement it is possible to adjust the distance of mirror 12 away from first connector 32. It is possible to keep mirror 12 parallel to first connector 32 by adjusting the length of each of elongate members 30 by the same amount. It is possible to adjust the angle of mirror 12 with respect to first connector 32 by making the length of one or more of elongate members 30 different from the length of the others. For example if one elongate member 30 is shortened with respect to the others, then this will have the effect of angling mirror 12 backwards towards that elongate member 30 and hence mirror 12 will be presented at a different angle relative to first connector 32, as can be seen in Figure 23 in respect of the second embodiment which operates by the same principle.

First connector 32 includes a central spigot 38 extending from a substantially planar engagement member 40 which in the alternative illustrated takes the shape of a cyclic polygon. In an alternative engagement member 40 may be of any other suitable shape. In the embodiment illustrated engagement member 40 includes three arm areas 21, 23, 25 extending from a central area 27, arm areas 21, 23, 25 being equally angularly spaced apart. In an alternative engagement member 40 includes two, four, five or any other suitable number of arm areas. U-shaped brackets 34 discussed above are attached to the sides of central spigot 38 and similarly are equally angularly spaced around the outside of central spigot 38.

Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the interengagement of first connector 32 and second connector 41. Second connector 41 includes mounting member 42 and cover member 44.

Apertures 46, three of which are shown, are provided through mounting member 42 for enabling mounting member 42 to be permanently attached to a structural support, for example a wall or ceiling, by virtue of screw fixings or other suitable fastening means.

A central aperture 48 is provided through at least a lower face of mounting member 42 which corresponds to the shape of engagement member 40. In use, engagement member 40 is configured to pass through aperture 48. A seating 50 is formed internally of mounting member 42 which again corresponds to the shape of engagement member 40. Seating 50 is angularly displaced from central aperture 48, in such a manner to allow engagement member 40 to be passed through central aperture 48, rotated, and then engaged with seating 50. In one alternative, not shown, latching means may be provided to secure engagement member 40 within seating 50, although in the embodiment shown engagement member 40 is retained in seating 50 by virtue of gravity alone. In a further alternative second connector 41 is provided with a central recess instead of an aperture that corresponds to the shape of engagement member 40. Second connector 41 is further provided with a slot extending into second connector 41 at the same height as the back of the central recess. Such that in use when engagement member 40 is located within the central recess engagement member 40 can then simply be rotated to engage with the slot, retaining engagement member 40 in position. The slot may further be provided with a retaining means to assist in retaining engagement member 40 in position in the slot until removal of engagement member 40 from the slot is desired.

Such a retaining means may for example comprise a spring clip.

A viewing aperture 52 is provided in mounting member 42, in a position aligned with an area of seating 50, and a similar viewing aperture 54 is provided in cover member 44. In use, whether or not engagement member 40 is engaged with seating 50 can be determined at a glance, because it is possible to see engagement member 40 through aligned viewing apertures 52, 54.

Referring in particular to Figure 3, resilient clip members 56 are attached to the rear surface of backboard 14, which are configured to lock elongate members 30 to the rear surface of backboard 14 when elongate members 30 are in their shortened or stowed positions. The same number of resilient clip members 56 are provided as elongate members 30, such that one resilient clip member 56 is provided for each elongate member 30. When in this position, such that elongate members 30 are located in resilient clip members 56, mirror 12 will be in a position substantially parallel with mounting member 42, and as close to mounting member 42 as is possible. If, for example mounting member 42 is attached to a wall, ceiling or other substantially planar member, then the surface of mirror 12 will be parallel with the surface of the wall, ceiling or planar member in this position. In one alternative frame 16 may be extended to obscure the stowed elongate members 30 from being viewed from the side.

In use, several second connectors 41 can be attached to a number of different structural supports. Firstly the mounting means 42 is attached to the structural support using screw fixings or other suitable fastening means. Cover member 44 is then attached, for example, as a push fit. Such second connectors 41 can be mounted to walls, ceilings, doors, furniture or any other suitable structural support.

Mirror 12 is configured to be released from frame 16, for example, by release of bayonet connectors, screws, clips or any other connector that has been utilised.

The opposite side of mirror 12 can then be selected for viewing and mirror 12 re-assembled within frame 16 and backboard 14. Elongate members 30 can then be set to desired lengths, for example, extended or stowed as shown in Figure 3.

Engagement member 40, is then passed through central aperture 48 in second connector 41 and mirror 12 rotated, for example, through 60 degrees, to engage engagement member 40 with seating 50.

Figures 6 to 9 illustrate a mirror assembly 110 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Mirror assembly 110 includes a mirror 112. Mirror 112 in one alternative is provided with reflective surfaces on both sides thereof, or on an alternative on a single side thereof. The reflective surfaces may be provided with a colour tint, or in the alternative may be provided with different magnifications. A frame 116 is provided to protect the periphery of mirror 112. In the embodiment illustrated mirror 112 is circular, although it will be appreciated that the mirror can be provided in other shapes as desired. In one alternative mirror 112 is formed from an acrylic plastics material which is lightweight and shatterproof. In a further alternative the mirror is provided with handles as illustrated in Figure 27.

An adjustable positioning means 124 is configured to removeably connect to mirror 112. Adjustable positioning means 124 includes three elongate members 130 each configured to removeably connect to mirror 112 at one end and to a first connector 132 at the other end. In an alternative a different number of elongate members may be provided. Elongate members 130 are telescopic in the embodiment illustrated.

In this embodiment instead of elongate members 130 simply sliding in and out of each other, as illustrated in respect of the first embodiment, a screw thread is utilised to control the movement. Elongate members 130 are provided with a first elongate tube 131 having an internal screw thread configured to house a second elongate tube 133 having an external screw thread. Rotation of second elongate tube 133 within first elongate tube 131 results in second elongate tube 133 either retracting further into or extending further from first elongate tube 131 depending on the direction of rotation, effectively changing the overall length of elongate member 130. This arrangement of the elongate members can be seen in more detail in Figures 10 and 11. Further in the alternative illustrated a quick release mechanism 135 is provided which is configured to prevent the internal screw thread 137 provided in first elongate tube 131 from engaging the external screw thread 139 of second elongate tube 133 to allow the second elongate tube 133 to move freely within first elongate tube 131 by depressing button 161. In yet another alternative the quick release mechanism 135 is configured to release internal screw thread 137 from first elongate tube 131 to allow both the internal screw thread 137 and second elongate tube 133 to removed from first elongate tube 131 by depressing button 161.

Elongate members 130 may further be provided with a secondary second elongate tube (not shown). The secondary second elongate tube is configured to fit into first elongate tube 131 after second elongate tube 133 has been completely removed there from. Second elongate tube 133 can then be re-inserted into first elongate tube 131. This secondary elongate tube has the effect of extending the length of the elongate member in an extended position beyond the previous maximum length.

Secondary elongate tube is configured to connect to second elongate tube 133 to form an extended length tube.

In an alternative, as illustrated in respect of the first embodiment of mirror assembly 10, elongate members 130 may comprise a traditional sliding telescopic mechanism, or be fixed in length.

Elongate members 130 are each configured to be pivotally removeably connected to mirror 112. In one alternative mirror 112 is provided with a number of apertures 125 equal in number to the number of elongate members 130. Apertures 125 are located close to the periphery of mirror 112 and equally angularly spaced apart. If only one elongate member 130 is provided then aperture 125 should be provided in the centre of mirror 112. Apertures 125 are each provided with a frame 127 to protect the internal periphery thereof. Apertures 125 are configured to be larger in diameter than the diameter of elongate members 130. Elongate members 130 are each provided with a removable spherical member 129 configured to be larger in diameter than the diameter of apertures 125 provided in mirror 112. In use, when the user desires to mount mirror 112 on a ceiling, each spherical member 129 is removed from the end of each elongate member. Each elongate member 130 is then passed through respective aperture 125, before each spherical member 129 is re-connected to each elongate member 130. When this procedure has been completed mirror 112 is configured to rest on top of spherical members 129. This arrangement can be seen in more detail in Figures 12 to 16.

Spherical members 129 in one alternative are removeably connected to elongate members 130 by a screw thread, in another alternative by a bayonet, in yet another alternative by a quick release mechanism comprising a spigot/socket arrangement, as illustrated, wherein a sprung spigot in the form of button 143 is provided on elongate member 130 which is configured to depress into elongate member 130 whilst spherical member 129 is slid over elongate member 130 and button 143.

When spherical member 129 is coirectly located about elongate member 130, button 143 is configured to spring back up and pass through socket aperture 145 provided in spherical member 129 to lock spherical member 129 in position. In an alternative spherical members 129 may be connected to elongate members 130 by magnets, key release, buckle, sucker, clip, safety circlip or any other suitable means.

Further, given that it is most likely that the user will raise mirror assembly 110 into position for mounting to a ceiling by holding mirror 112, a stop 147 is provided on each elongate member 130 to prevent mirror 112 from passing along the full length thereof.

Elongate members 130 are also each configured to be pivotally connected to first connector 132 as can be seen in more detail in Figures 17 to 22. In one alternative the elongate members 130 are pivotally connected to first connector 132 using brackets 134 and bracket connectors 149. The brackets 134 illustrated are substantially U-shaped and are attached to first connector 132 and are equally angularly spaced apart around the periphery thereof. The same number of brackets 134 are provided as elongate members 130. If only one elongate member is provided bracket 134 should instead be located in the centre of first connector 132.

Brackets 134 are each provided with a supporting pin 136 extending between side members of brackets 134. Supporting pins 136 are configured to extend through corresponding apertures 151 provided in bracket connectors 149. Bracket connectors 149 are configured to insert into the ends of elongate members 130 and in turn be secured in place with supporting pins 153 extending through apertures in the elongate members 130 and apertures 157 in the bracket connectors 149.

Using the above described arrangement it is possible to adjust the distance of mirror 112 away from first connector 132. It is possible to keep mirror 112 parallel to first connector 132 by adjusting the length of each elongate member 130 by the same amount. It is possible to adjust the angle of mirror 112 with respect to first connector 132 by making the length of one or more elongate member 130 different from the length of the others. For example if one elongate member 130 is shortened with respect to the others, then this will have the effect of angling mirror 112 backwards towards that elongate member 130 and hence mirror 112 will be presented at a different angle relative to first connector 132, as can be seen in Figure 25.

First connector 132 includes a central spigot 138 depending from a substantially planar engagement member 140 which in the alternative illustrates takes the shape of a cyclic polygon. In an alternative engagement member 140 may be of any other suitable shape. In the embodiment illustrated engagement member 140 includes three arm areas 121, 123, 125 extending from a central area 127, arm areas 121, 123, 125 being equally angularly spaced apart. In an alternative engagement member 140 includes two, four, five or any other suitable number of arm areas. U-shaped brackets 134 discussed above are attached to the sides of central spigot 138 and similarly are equally angularly spaced around the outside of central spigot 138.

Second connector 141 includes an integral mounting member 142 and cover member 144.

Apertures 146, three of which are shown, are provided through second connector 141 for enabling second connector 141 to be permanently attached to a structural support, for example a wall or ceiling, by virtue of screw fixings or other suitable fastening means.

A central aperture 148 is provided through at least a lower face of second connector 141 which corresponds to the shape of engagement member 140. In use, engagement member 140 is configured to pass through aperture 148 with clearance. A seating 150 is formed internally of second connector 141 which again corresponds to the shape of engagement member 140. Seating 150 is angularly displaced from central aperture 148, in such a manner to allow engagement member 140 to be passed through central aperture 148, rotated, and then engaged with seating 150. In one alternative, not shown, latching means may be provided to secure engagement member 140 within seating 150, although in the embodiment shown engagement member 140 is retained in seating 150 by virtue of gravity alone. In a further alternative second connector 141 is provided with a central recess instead of an aperture that corresponds to the shape of engagement member 140. Second connector 141 is further provided with a slot extending into second connector 141 at the same height as the back of the central recess. Such that in use when engagement member 140 is located within the central recess engagement member 140 can then simply be rotated to engage with the slot, retaining engagement member 140 in position. The slot may further be provided with a retaining means to assist in retaining engagement member 140 in position in the slot until removal of engagement member 140 from the slot is desired. Such a retaining means, may for example, comprise a spring clip.

A viewing aperture (not shown) is provided in second connector 141, in a position aligned with an area of seating 150. In use, when engagement member 140 is engaged with seating 150, this can be determined at a glance, because it is possible to see engagement member 140 through the viewing aperture.

Figure 24 illustrates a further mechanism 153 incorporated into the first connector 132 which allows mirror 112 to be rotated once engagement member 140 has been locked in place within seating 150. In a further alternative first connector 132 may be provided with a ball joint to allow the mirror to swivel in any direction and angle once the engagement member 140 is engaged with seating 150.

When it is desired to mount mirror 112 on a wall rather than on a ceiling elongate members 130 are simply removed from apertures 125 and mirror 112 can simply be hooked over an alternate mount located on the wall using any or all of apertures 125. In one alternative three mounting spigots may be provided on the wall, each configured to be received in an aperture 125. Once the mirror 112 has been positioned, spherical members 129 can simply be releasabley engaged with the mounting spigots, using the same mechanism as used to connect spherical members 129 with elongate members 130. In one alternative adjustable mounting means 124 is configured to clip onto the back of mirror 112 or simply be placed into a drawer or the like when not in use.

When it is desired to select the opposite side of mirror 112 for viewing, spherical members 129 can simply be released from elongate members 130, mirror 112 removed from elongate members 130, flipped over and then put back over elongate members 130 using apertures 125, before spherical members 129 are re-engaged.

Mirror 112 can then be mounted back on the ceiling by passing engagement member 140 through central aperture 148 in second connector 141, rotating mirror 112 through, for example 60 degrees, to engage engagement member 140 within seating 150.

Mirrors 12, 112 can be angled to any desired angular position, by adjustment of the length of elongate members 30, 130 as discussed above. It is envisaged that mirror assemblies 10, 110 will have particular application in viewing sexual activity, because mirror assemblies 10, 110 can be easily attached to a ceiling and later, repositioned on a wall.

Figures 26a to 26d illustrate a mirror assembly 210 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Mirror assembly 210 includes a mirror 212 and a plurality of elongate members 230 pivotally connected to mirror 212. Elongate members 230 are pivotally connected using brackets 226. Brackets 226 are attached to the rear of mirror 212 close to the centre thereof and are equally angularly spaced apart. The same number of brackets 226 are provided as are elongate members 230. Brackets 226 are each provided with a supporting pin (not shown) extending between side members of brackets 226. Supporting pins (not shown) are configured to extend through corresponding apertures (not shown) provided in the respective elongate members 230.

The ends 260 of elongate members 230 are also each configured co-operate to form a first connector 232. First connector 232 includes a substantially planar engagement member 240 which in the alternative illustrated takes the shape of a cyclic polygon. In an alternative engagement member 240 may be of any other suitable shape. Engagement member 240 is formed from the planer surface at the ends 260 of each elongate member 230.

Figure 26d illustrates the interengagement of first connector 232 and second connector24l.

A central aperture 248 is provided through at least a lower face of second connector 241 which corresponds to the shape of engagement member 240. In use, engagement member 240 is configured to pass through aperture 248. A seating (not shown) is formed internally of second connector 241 which again corresponds to the shape of engagement member 240. The seating is angularly displaced from central aperture 248, in such a manner to allow engagement member 240 to be passed through central aperture 248, rotated, and then engaged with the seating. In one alternative, not shown, latching means may be provided to secure engagement member 240 within the seating. In a further alternative second connector 241 is provided with a central recess instead of an aperture that corresponds to the shape of engagement member 240. Second connector 241 is further provided with a slot extending into second connector 241 at the same height as the back of the central recess. Such that in use when engagement member 240 is located within the central recess engagement member 240 can then simply be rotated to engage with the slot, retaining engagement member 240 in position. The slot may further be provided with a retaining means to assist in retaining engagement member 240 in position in the slot until removal of engagement member 240 from the slot is desired. Such a retaining means may for example comprise a spring clip.

In a fourth embodiment illustrated in Figure 28 mirror assembly 310 includes a mirror 312 having a first connector 332 connected thereto configured to engage with a second connector 341 configured to connect to a structural support.

In filth and sixth embodiments illustrated in Figures 29, 30a and 30b pulley systems are configured to mount mirrors 412, 512 to a structural support.

In a seventh embodiment illustrated in Figure 31 a remote control winch system is configured to mount mirror 612 to a structural support.

In another embodiment elongate members are GorillaPod (RTM) legs configured to flex to adjust in both length and angle as illustrated in Figure 37.

In a further embodiment illustrated in Figure 36 a scissor type extender may be provided in place of the elongate members.

In yet another alternative no elongate members are provided and instead the first connector includes a first magnet and the second connector includes a second magnet as illustrated in Figure 38.

In other alternatives, the adjustable positioning means can be provided by chains as illustrated in Figures 32a, 32b, 32c, 33a and 33b.

In further alternatives the adjustable positioning means may include actuable extendable elongate members, which can be controlled by, for example, aerial remote control.

An electrical connection may be provided to the mirror assembly, which may also include built in lights, such as LEDs, and may also include a camera, either hidden or visible.

In the specification when the term plurality is used this should be interpreted to mean one or more unless specifically referred to as being more than one.

Claims

<claim-text>Claims 1. A mirror assembly comprising a mirror, a means for connecting the mirror to a structural support and an adjustable positioning means for adjusting the distance between the mirror and the structural support.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the adjustable positioning means is further configured for adjusting the distance between the mirror and the structural support.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein the adjustable positioning means comprises a plurality of elongate members.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 3 wherein the plurality of elongate members are adjustable in length.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 4 wherein the plurality of elongate members are adjustable in length by means of a telescopic mechanism.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 5 wherein the telescopic mechanism comprises a plurality of tubes configured to slide in and out of each other.</claim-text> <claim-text>7. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 5 wherein the telescopic mechanism comprises complimentary screw threads provided on a plurality of tubes configured to twist in and out of each other.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. A mirror assembly as claimed in any of claims 4 to 7 wherein the length of each elongate member can be adjusted independently of the other elongate members.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 4 wherein the plurality of elongate members are fixed in length.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. A mirror assembly as claimed in any of Claims 13 to 19 wherein the plurality of elongate members are pivotally connected to the mirror.</claim-text> <claim-text>11. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 20 wherein the mirror is provided with a plurality of apertures configured to receive an elongate member and wherein each elongate member is provided with a spherical member larger than the diameter of the aperture upon which the mirror is configured to rest.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. A mirror assembly as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a first connector and a second connector wherein the first connector is configured to connect to the mirror and releasably connect to the second connector and wherein the second connector is configured for connecting to a structural support.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 12 wherein the first connector is configured to releasably connect to the mirror.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 12 or Claim 13 wherein the second connector is configured for permanently connecting to a structural support.</claim-text> <claim-text>15. A mirror assembly as claimed in any of claims 12 to 14 wherein the first connector comprises an engagement member and the second connector comprises an aperture configured to receive the engagement member.</claim-text> <claim-text>16. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 15 wherein the second connector further comprises a seating configured to be angularly off-set from the aperture and receive the engagement member upon rotation of the engagement member after the engagement member after being received by the aperture.</claim-text> <claim-text>17. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 15 or Claim 16 wherein the engagement member is substantially planar.</claim-text> <claim-text>18. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 15 or Claim 16 or Claim 17 wherein the engagement member is in the shape of a cyclic polygon.</claim-text> <claim-text>19. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 18 wherein the aperture is in the shape of a cyclic polygon.</claim-text> <claim-text>20. A mirror assembly as claimed in Claim 18 or Claim 19 wherein the seating is in the shape of a cyclic polygon.</claim-text> <claim-text>21. A mirror assembly as claimed in any of claims 16 to 20 wherein the seating is provided with an aperture extending through the second connector for determining when the engagement member has been received by the seating.</claim-text> <claim-text>22. A mirror assembly substantially as herein before described, with reference to and as illustrated in any of the accompanying figures.</claim-text>