Vehicle interior rearview mirror assembly mounting bracket, rearview mirror module and interior module

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a mounting bracket (26) for an interior rearview mirror assembly (24) of a vehicle. The mounting bracket includes a strip support element (28) having a first end (28a) and a second end (28b). A mounting interface (56) for connecting the interior rearview mirror assembly to the mounting bracket (26) is connected to the support element. Furthermore, a first lever arm (30) extends from the support element and has a first pivoting feature (34). A second lever arm (32) extends from the support element and has a second pivoting feature (38). The support element, the first lever arm, and the second lever arm form a U-shape. Additionally, an interior rearview mirror module (22) includes an interior rearview mirror assembly and such a mounting bracket. Furthermore, an interior module (10) of a vehicle includes a console unit (12) configured to be connected to the windshield or roof structure of the vehicle. The interior module also includes a mounting bracket of the type described above, wherein the mounting bracket is pivotally supported on the console unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a mounting bracket for an interior rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle.

[0002] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to an interior rearview mirror module including an interior rearview mirror assembly and such a mounting bracket.

[0003] Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a vehicle interior module including such a mounting bracket. Background Technology

[0004] The rearview mirror of a vehicle is typically mounted on the upper part of the windshield or the front of the roof structure. In modern vehicles, interior modules can be located in the same area inside the vehicle. Such interior modules include, for example, sensor units and / or storage compartments.

[0005] In addition, interior rearview mirror modules are typically equipped with a mechanism that allows the interior rearview mirror assembly to fold in the event of an impact, such as an impact from a driver or passenger inside the vehicle.

[0006] Therefore, when designing the vehicle's interior, the space available for the folding mechanisms of the interior modules and interior rearview mirror modules is very limited. In other words, the folding mechanisms and interior modules require conflicting spaces. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, one object of this disclosure is to resolve or at least mitigate this conflict and to provide a solution that provides sufficient space for the folding mechanism of the internal module and the internal rearview mirror module.

[0008] The subject matter disclosed herein addresses or mitigates this problem at least partially.

[0009] According to a first aspect, a mounting bracket for an interior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle is provided. The mounting bracket includes a strip-shaped support element having a first end and a second end. Furthermore, the mounting bracket includes a mounting interface for connecting the interior rearview mirror assembly to the mounting bracket. The mounting interface is connected to the support element at a location between the first end and the second end. Additionally, the mounting bracket includes a first lever arm extending from the first end of the support element and having a first pivoting feature at its free end. Furthermore, the mounting bracket includes a second lever arm extending from the second end of the support element and having a second pivoting feature at its free end. The support element, the first lever arm, and the second lever arm form a U-shape. The second end of the support element is opposite to the first end of the support element. Therefore, when installed inside the vehicle, the mounting bracket provides free space within the U-shape. This free space can be used for other components inside the vehicle, such as interior modules of the type described above. The first and second pivoting features can be used to form a folding mechanism for the mounting bracket and the interior rearview mirror assembly mounted thereon. Therefore, the aforementioned conflict is resolved because the U-shape provides sufficient space for additional internal components and provides a folding mechanism.

[0010] It should be noted that the lengths of the first lever arm and the second lever arm can be adapted to specific implementation methods. Furthermore, the length of the strip-shaped support element can be adjusted. Therefore, the internal dimensions of the U-shape can be selected according to the specific implementation of the mounting bracket, thereby providing adjustable free space for additional internal components.

[0011] In one example, the first lever arm and the second lever arm extend parallel to the support element. Therefore, the mounting bracket has a simple structure. At the same time, it possesses mechanical stability and compactness.

[0012] In another example, the first lever arm and the second lever arm have substantially the same length and / or approximately the same shape. In such a configuration, the structure of the mounting bracket is particularly simple. Therefore, the mounting bracket can be manufactured at a relatively low cost.

[0013] In one example, at least one of the first pivot feature and the second pivot feature includes at least one of a hole for receiving a pivot shaft and a short shaft for engaging with the pivot hole. Therefore, the first pivot feature and the second pivot feature can be the same or different. If they are the same, both pivot features may include a hole for receiving a pivot shaft, or both pivot features may include a short shaft. Thus, the mounting bracket can be pivotally supported inside the vehicle. Such a support can form part of a folding mechanism, thus resulting in a simple and reliable folding mechanism.

[0014] In one example, the mounting interface is connected to the support element via an extension element. This means that the mounting interface is not directly disposed on the support element. Therefore, the extension element forms an intermediate element connecting the mounting interface and the support element. The extension element is implemented, for example, as a short axis. Thus, sufficient space is provided for the interior rearview mirror assembly connected to the mounting interface to adjust its position and / or orientation.

[0015] In one example, the mounting interface may include a ball joint. Therefore, the interior rearview mirror assembly connected to the mounting component can be easily adjusted in position and / or orientation.

[0016] In one example, the support element, the first lever arm, the second lever arm, and the mounting interface are parts of a single integral component. If an extension element is provided, it can also be part of the integral component. In other words, the support element, the first lever arm, the second lever arm, and the mounting interface are formed as a single component. If an extension element is provided, it can also be part of the single component. Therefore, no assembly process is required when manufacturing the mounting bracket. Furthermore, the mounting bracket can be manufactured in a partially or fully automated manner. Therefore, the mounting bracket can be manufactured at a relatively low cost.

[0017] In one example, the mounting bracket is formed as an injection-molded part. Therefore, the mounting bracket can be produced efficiently, especially when producing large quantities of mounting brackets.

[0018] In one example, the free end of at least one of the first lever arm and the second lever arm can elastically deform in a direction parallel to the extension of the support element. This means that the distance between the free end of the first lever arm and the free end of the second lever arm can be increased by elastically bending the first lever arm and / or the second lever arm. In such a configuration, elasticity can be used to engage the first pivot feature and / or the second pivot feature with the corresponding anti-pivot feature. Once the first pivot feature and / or the second pivot feature is engaged with the corresponding anti-pivot feature, the first lever arm and / or the first lever arm can return to its original position. Therefore, the mounting bracket can be easily installed inside a vehicle.

[0019] According to a second aspect, an interior rearview mirror module is provided. The interior rearview mirror module includes an interior rearview mirror assembly and a mounting bracket according to this disclosure. The interior rearview mirror assembly is connected to the mounting bracket via the mounting interface. In this configuration, the interior rearview mirror assembly includes a rearview mirror element (i.e., a plate-shaped element reflecting on one side) and a rearview mirror housing (i.e., a shell-shaped element in which the rearview mirror element is disposed). Due to the mounting bracket, as described above, a folding mechanism can be provided for such an interior rearview mirror assembly. Simultaneously, due to the U-shape, the mounting bracket provides sufficient space for other interior components of the vehicle.

[0020] According to a third aspect, an interior module for a vehicle is provided. The interior module includes a console unit. The console unit has a connection interface configured to connect the console unit to a windshield or roof structure of the vehicle. Furthermore, the interior module includes a mounting bracket according to this disclosure. The mounting bracket is pivotally supported on the console unit via pivoting features of a first lever arm and a second lever arm, and a corresponding pivoting feature of the console unit. Therefore, when using such an interior module, support for the console unit and an interior rearview mirror module with a folding mechanism can be provided. Thus, the space inside the vehicle is utilized effectively. In this document, the pivotal connection between the mounting bracket and the console unit constitutes part of the folding mechanism. Alternatively, the interior rearview mirror assembly can be mounted to the mounting interface of the mounting bracket. In this case, the interior module includes an interior rearview mirror module according to this disclosure.

[0021] In one example, each pivot feature of the console unit includes at least one of a pivot hole and a short shaft. The pivot features of the console unit can be configured in the same or different ways. It should be understood that when the pivot feature of the console unit includes a pivot hole, the corresponding pivot feature of the mounting bracket includes a short shaft, and vice versa. Therefore, the mounting bracket can reliably pivot on the console unit.

[0022] In one example, the pivoting features of the console unit are arranged on opposite side surfaces of the console unit. These side surfaces can be oriented left and right relative to the forward direction of travel of the vehicle using the console unit. In this case, the mounting bracket can pivot forward and / or backward relative to the forward direction of travel. Therefore, an effective folding mechanism for the interior rearview mirror assembly can be formed.

[0023] In one example, at least a portion of the console unit is received within the U-shape formed by the support element of the mounting bracket, the first lever arm, and the second lever arm. In other words, the mounting bracket can be placed on the console unit. This allows the mounting bracket to be arranged in a space-saving manner while maintaining all relevant functions, particularly the folding function. Simultaneously, it provides sufficient space for the console unit.

[0024] In one example, the console unit is provided with at least one abutment element. The abutment element includes an abutment surface against which the mounting bracket abuts when in an operating position. The operating position of the mounting bracket corresponds to a standard position on which an interior rearview mirror assembly can be mounted. In the standard position, the interior rearview mirror assembly is not folded but arranged internally so that the driver of the corresponding vehicle can use the interior rearview mirror assembly to observe rear traffic. The abutment surface can be oriented forward relative to the forward direction of travel. Therefore, when in the operating position, the abutment surface reliably defines the position of the mounting bracket. Simultaneously, the abutment element does not impede folding movement.

[0025] In one example, the abutment element is formed as part of the console unit. In other words, the abutment element is an integral part of the console unit.

[0026] In one example, two or more abutment elements may be provided on the console unit. These abutment elements may be distributed across the console unit. If two abutment elements are provided, they may be arranged on opposite sides of the console unit. Therefore, the mounting bracket is reliably positioned in the operating position.

[0027] In one example, at least one retaining protrusion is provided on the console unit. The at least one retaining protrusion may be arranged at a distance from the abutting element such that when the mounting bracket is in the operating position, the retaining portion of the mounting bracket can be received between the abutting element and the retaining protrusion. The operating position has been defined above. Therefore, in this position, the mounting bracket is held between the retaining protrusion and the abutting element. The space between the retaining protrusion and the abutting element may substantially correspond to the width of the retaining portion of the mounting bracket, which is arranged between the retaining protrusion and the abutting element. Therefore, the mounting bracket is reliably held in the operating position.

[0028] In one example, two or more retaining protrusions may be provided on the console unit. These retaining protrusions may be distributed on the console unit. If two retaining protrusions are provided, they may be arranged on opposite sides of the console unit. Therefore, the mounting bracket is reliably held in the operating position.

[0029] In one example, the retaining portion of the mounting bracket may be part of the support element.

[0030] In one example, the retaining protrusion is formed as part of the console unit. In other words, the retaining protrusion is an integral part of the console unit.

[0031] In one example, a portion of the mounting bracket and at least one of the retaining protrusions are deformable, allowing the mounting bracket to be converted to a retracted position in which the abutment element and the retaining portion of the mounting bracket are arranged on opposite sides of the retaining protrusion. The retracted position corresponds to a position where the interior rearview mirror assembly connected to the mounting bracket is folded. It should be noted that a certain force is required to deform the retaining protrusion and / or the mounting bracket to release the mounting bracket from the retracted position. This force can be adjusted by adjusting the deformability of the retaining protrusion and / or the mounting bracket. Alternatively or additionally, this force can be adjusted by the form of the retaining protrusion and / or the mounting bracket. Furthermore, this force can be adjusted by the height of the retaining protrusion. Therefore, a folding mechanism is provided in which the force required to fold the interior rearview mirror assembly can be precisely defined. Therefore, the folding mechanism is reliable in operation.

[0032] In one example, at least one of the retaining protrusion and a portion of the mounting bracket is elastically deformable. Therefore, the mounting bracket can be easily moved from the retracted position back to the operating position. Thus, the folding mechanism can be used multiple times.

[0033] In one example, at least one of a radar unit, a light detection and ranging unit, a camera unit, a light sensor unit, a humidity sensor unit, and a rain sensor unit is arranged inside the console unit. In this case, the console unit can also be designated as a sensor unit. It should be understood that, typically, various sensor units can be arranged inside the console unit. Alternatively or additionally, one or more storage compartments may be located within the console unit, for example, for sunglasses.

[0034] It should be noted that the above examples can be combined with each other, regardless of the aspect involved.

[0035] These and other aspects of this disclosure will become apparent and illustrated by the examples described below. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Examples of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the following figures.

[0037] Figure 1 An internal module according to the present disclosure is shown, including an interior rearview mirror module according to the present disclosure and a mounting bracket according to the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 2 Along Figure 1 The side view of the center direction II shows Figure 1 Details of its internal modules, and

[0039] Figure 3 Displayed in front view Figure 1 Internal modules within. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are intended to illustrate examples of this disclosure. Identical or equivalent elements generally have the same reference numerals.

[0041] Figure 1 The internal module 10 for the vehicle is shown.

[0042] The internal module 10 includes a console unit 12, which in this example houses a radar unit 14, a camera unit 16, and a rain sensor unit 18.

[0043] exist Figure 1 The radar unit 14, camera unit 16, and rain sensor unit 18 are only schematically depicted.

[0044] It is worth noting that, alternatively or additionally, the console unit 12 may also accommodate a light detection and ranging unit (lidar unit).

[0045] In this example, the console unit 12 is configured to be mounted on the top of the inside of the vehicle's windshield. For this purpose, the console unit 12 has a connection interface 20 configured to connect the console unit to the windshield.

[0046] The connection interface 20 can be an adhesive surface that is bonded to the inside of the windshield.

[0047] The internal module 10 also includes an internal rearview mirror module 22, which is pivotally supported on the console unit 12.

[0048] The interior rearview mirror module includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 24 and a mounting bracket 26.

[0049] Mounting bracket 26 has a strip-shaped support element 28 including a first end 28a and a second end 28b.

[0050] In addition, the mounting bracket 26 includes a first lever arm 30 extending from the first end 28a.

[0051] In addition, the mounting bracket has a second lever arm 32 extending from the second end 28b.

[0052] The first lever arm 30 and the second lever arm 32 are generally the same shape and extend parallel to the support element 28.

[0053] The support element 28, the first lever arm 30, and the second lever arm 32 form a U-shape.

[0054] Furthermore, at its free end, the first lever arm 30 has a first pivot feature 34, which in this example includes a hole 36.

[0055] The second lever arm 32 has a second pivot feature 38 at its free end, the second pivot feature 38 also including a hole 40.

[0056] The first pivot feature 34 and the second pivot feature 38 of the mounting bracket 26 interact with the corresponding pivot feature of the console unit 12.

[0057] The first pivot feature 42 of the console unit 12 is arranged on the first side surface 44 of the console unit 12.

[0058] The first pivot feature 42 includes a short shaft 46, which is received in a hole 36 in the first pivot feature 34 of the mounting bracket 26.

[0059] The second pivot feature 48 of the console unit 12 is disposed on the second side surface 50 of the console unit 12. The second side surface 50 is disposed opposite to the first side surface 44.

[0060] The second pivot feature 48 also includes a short shaft 52, which is received in the hole 40 of the second pivot feature 38 of the mounting bracket 26.

[0061] Therefore, the mounting bracket 26 is pivotally supported on the console unit 12.

[0062] Meanwhile, a portion of the console unit 12 is received inside the U-shape formed by the support element 28, the first lever arm 30, and the second lever arm 32.

[0063] The mounting bracket also includes an extension element 54 connected to the support element 28.

[0064] The extension element 54 is basically arranged in the middle between the first end 28a and the second end 28b of the support element 28.

[0065] The extension element 54 extends from the support element in a direction substantially opposite to the direction in which the first lever arm 30 and the second lever arm 32 extend.

[0066] An installation interface 56 is provided at the free end of the extension element 54.

[0067] Mounting interface 56 is configured to connect the interior rearview mirror assembly 24 to the mounting bracket 26.

[0068] The mounting interface 56 includes the articulated ball 58.

[0069] In this example, the support element 28, the first lever arm 30, the second lever arm 32, the extension element 54, and the mounting interface 56 are formed as a single unit.

[0070] The interior rearview mirror assembly 24 includes a rearview mirror element 60, i.e., a plate-shaped element that reflects on one side, and a rearview mirror housing 62 in which the rearview mirror element 60 is disposed.

[0071] A recess 64 is formed in the rearview mirror housing 62. A ball joint 58 engages the recess 64, such that the rearview mirror housing 62 is connected to the mounting bracket 26 via a ball joint 66.

[0072] Figure 2 and Figure 3 More details are shown regarding the interaction between the mounting bracket 26 and the console unit 12.

[0073] like Figure 1 ,as well as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the mounting bracket 26 is shown in the operating position, i.e., the position in which the interior rearview mirror assembly 24, which is mounted thereon, can be used by the vehicle driver to observe traffic behind.

[0074] To keep the mounting bracket 26 in this operating position, two abutment elements 68 are provided on the control unit 12.

[0075] In this example, the abutment element 68 is formed as a protrusion integral with the console unit 12. They are arranged on the bottom surface 70 of the console unit 12. In addition, the abutment element 68 is positioned adjacent to the first side surface 44 and the second side surface 50, respectively.

[0076] Each abutting element 68 includes an abutting surface 72, which abuts the side surface of the mounting bracket 26, or more precisely, the support element 28, when the mounting bracket 26 is in the operating position (see [link]). Figure 2 ).

[0077] In addition, two retaining protrusions 74 are provided on the console unit 12.

[0078] In addition, the protrusion 74 is arranged on the bottom surface 70 of the control unit 12 and integrally formed therein.

[0079] In addition, the protrusion 74 is arranged adjacent to the first side surface 44 and the second side surface 50 respectively.

[0080] In the operating position of the mounting bracket 26, the protrusion 74 is positioned on the opposite side of the support element 28 compared to the abutment element 68.

[0081] In other words, the space between the adjacent abutting element 68 and the retaining protrusion 74 substantially corresponds to the width of the supporting element 28.

[0082] Therefore, the corresponding retaining portion of the mounting bracket 26, or more precisely, the support element 28, can be received between each abutting element 68 and its adjacent retaining protrusion 74.

[0083] In this example, the mounting bracket 26 has a certain degree of elasticity. Therefore, the mounting bracket 26 can elastically deform in the following manner.

[0084] The free ends of the first lever arm 30 and the second lever arm 32 are capable of elastic deformation in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the support element 28.

[0085] In other words, the free ends of the first lever arm 30 and the second lever arm 32 can elastically deform to increase the distance between the free ends.

[0086] This deformability is used to mount the mounting bracket 26 onto the console unit 12. The deformability allows the short shafts 46, 52 of the console unit 12 to be placed in the corresponding holes 36, 40.

[0087] In addition, the support element 28 of the mounting bracket 26 can be elastically deformed so that the mounting bracket 26 can be switched to the retracted position.

[0088] In this retracted position, the retaining portions of the abutting element 68 and the support member 28 are arranged on the opposite side of the retaining protrusion 74.

[0089] This means that the support element 28 can elastically deform in such a way that when the mounting bracket 26 pivots around the console unit 12 using the pivot features 34, 38, 42, 48, the support element 28 can slide on the retaining protrusion 74.

[0090] Of course, a certain force needs to be applied to the interior rearview mirror assembly 24 or the mounting bracket 26 in order to move the mounting bracket 26 and the interior rearview mirror assembly 24 together to the retracted position.

[0091] To allow for a smooth transition to the retracted position, the side surfaces 76 of the protrusion 74 facing the adjacent abutting element 68 are kept curved.

[0092] Those skilled in the art, through study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed examples. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite terms "a," "an," or "a kind" do not exclude multiple elements. The fact that certain measures are listed only in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageous.

[0093] List of reference numerals

[0094] 10 Internal Modules

[0095] 12 console units

[0096] 14 radar units

[0097] 16-camera unit

[0098] 18 rainwater sensor units

[0099] 20. Connection interface of the console unit

[0100] 22 Interior rearview mirror module

[0101] 24 Interior rearview mirror assembly

[0102] 26 Mounting bracket

[0103] 28 support elements

[0104] The first end of the 28a support element

[0105] The second end of the 28b support element

[0106] 30 First lever arm

[0107] 32 Second lever arm

[0108] 34 First pivot feature of the first lever arm

[0109] 36 holes

[0110] 38. Second pivot feature of the second lever arm

[0111] 40 holes

[0112] 42. First pivot feature of the console unit

[0113] 44 First side surface

[0114] 46 short axis

[0115] The second pivot feature of the 48 console units

[0116] 50 Second side surface

[0117] 52 short axis

[0118] 54 extension elements

[0119] 56 Mounting bracket mounting interface

[0120] 58-joint ball

[0121] 60 rearview mirror components

[0122] 62 rearview mirror housing

[0123] 64 recesses

[0124] 66 ball joint

[0125] 68 Abutment Components

[0126] 70 bottom surface

[0127] 72 abutment surface

[0128] 74 maintains protrusion

[0129] 76 side surfaces

Claims

1. An internal module (10) for a vehicle, comprising: A console unit (12) having a connection interface (20) configured to connect the console unit (12) to the windshield or roof structure of the vehicle, and A mounting bracket (26) for an interior rearview mirror assembly (24) of the vehicle, the mounting bracket (26) comprising: a strip-shaped support element (28) having a first end (28a) and a second end (28b) for connecting the interior rearview mirror assembly (24) to the mounting bracket (26) for connecting the interior rearview mirror assembly (24) to the support element (28) at a position between the first end (28a) and the second end (28b); a first lever arm (30) extending from the first end (28a) of the support element (28) and having a first pivot feature (34) at its free end; and a second lever arm (32) extending from the second end (28b) of the support element (28) and having a second pivot feature (38) at its free end, wherein the support element (28), the first lever arm (30) and the second lever arm (32) form a U-shape. The mounting bracket (26) is pivotally supported on the console unit (12) via pivot features (34, 38) of the first lever arm (30) and the second lever arm (32) and corresponding pivot features (42, 48) of the console unit (12). At least one abutting element (68) is provided on the console unit (12), the abutting element (68) includes an abutting surface (72), and when the mounting bracket (26) is in the operating position, the mounting bracket (26) abuts against the abutting surface (72). At least one retaining protrusion (74) is provided on the control console unit (12), the at least one retaining protrusion (74) being arranged at a distance from the abutting element (68) such that when the mounting bracket (26) is in the operating position, the retaining portion of the mounting bracket (26) can be received between the abutting element (68) and the retaining protrusion (74). A portion of the mounting bracket (26) and at least one of the retaining protrusions (74) are deformable, such that the mounting bracket (26) can be switched to a retracted position, in which the abutment element (68) and the retaining portion of the mounting bracket (26) are arranged on opposite sides of the retaining protrusions (74).

2. The internal module (10) according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the pivot features (42, 48) of the console unit (12) includes at least one of a pivot hole and a short shaft (46, 52).

3. The internal module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least a portion of the console unit (12) is received within the U-shape formed by the support element (28) of the mounting bracket (26), the first lever arm (30), and the second lever arm (32).

4. The internal module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least one of the radar unit (14), light detection and ranging unit, camera unit (16), light sensor unit, humidity sensor unit and rain sensor unit (18) is arranged inside the console unit (12).

5. The internal module (10) according to claim 1 or 2 further includes an internal rearview mirror assembly (24), wherein, The interior rearview mirror assembly (24) is connected to the mounting bracket (26) via the mounting interface (56).

6. The internal module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first lever arm (30) and the second lever arm (32) extend parallel to the support element (28).

7. The internal module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The mounting interface (56) is connected to the support element (28) via an extension element (54).

8. The internal module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The mounting interface (56) includes a joint ball (58).

9. The internal module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The support element (28), the first lever arm (30), the second lever arm (32), and the mounting interface (56) are parts of a single unit.

10. The internal module (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The free end of at least one of the first lever arm (30) and the second lever arm (32) is elastically deformable in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the support element (28).

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