A mirror folding device

Abstract

The application discloses a folding driving device, which comprises a driving mechanism, a gear assembly, a transmission assembly and a rotating seat for fixed connection with a mirror base; the transmission assembly is coaxially arranged with the gear assembly and can be in transmission connection with the gear assembly; the gear assembly is in transmission connection with the output end of the driving mechanism; the transmission assembly is coaxially arranged with the rotating seat and is always in relative static connection; a limiting groove is formed in the side of the base facing the rotating seat; the side of the rotating seat facing the base is provided with an elastic member and a limiting assembly for limiting the limiting groove, and the elastic member can generate a gap between the rotating seat and the base; when the base is limited and the gear assembly continuously rotates in the limited direction, the gear assembly is axially pressed against the transmission assembly, so that the rotating seat is attached to the base. In the application, the transmission resistance between the base and the rotating seat during the folding process of the rearview mirror can be reduced, and the wind sand can be prevented from entering and the wind noise can be reduced after the rearview mirror is folded or unfolded to the position.

Description

[0001] This case is a divisional application based on the invention patent filed on February 9, 2021, with application number 2021101812196, entitled "A Folding Drive Device". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to the field of automotive parts, and in particular to a rearview mirror folding device. Background Technology

[0003] The rearview mirror folding drive mechanism is usually installed between the mirror base plate (where the rearview mirror is mounted) and the mirror base (connected to the door) to drive the electric folding of the rearview mirror. Existing rearview mirror folding drive mechanisms usually only have a rotation function and do not have a lifting function, or they rotate while slowly lifting in a spiral motion.

[0004] In the early days of the automotive industry, electric rearview mirror assemblies with only a rotating function often required a rotation gap between the mirror base and the mirror frame during electric folding to reduce frictional resistance. This gap resulted in significant wind noise during driving. Furthermore, the gap allowed sand and dust to enter, increasing the relative rotational resistance between the mirror base and the frame, leading to increased current in the motor and preventing the rearview mirror from folding properly, or even causing folding failure.

[0005] In recent years, with the development of the automotive industry, electric rearview mirror assemblies with rotation functions and the ability to slowly raise the mirror base have gradually emerged. During the folding process, a relatively small rotational gap can be created between the mirror base and the mirror holder, or elastic windproof rubber strips can be added to block wind and sand. Under normal conditions, this method can solve the problems of excessive wind noise or sand ingress. However, the slow-raising mechanism during rotation has the following drawbacks: initially, the axial clearance is small, resulting in greater resistance than the frictional resistance after rotating a certain angle when the axial clearance is larger. Therefore, slow folding start or failure often occurs. Furthermore, after a certain number of folds over a period of time, the lifting mechanism will cause rubber wear, leading to wind noise problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a rearview mirror folding device that ensures that there is no gap in the folding part of the rearview mirror when driving, and reduces the rotational resistance when the rearview mirror needs to be folded.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is as follows:

[0008] A folding drive device includes a housing for driving connection with a mirror base plate and a base connected to the housing, and also includes a drive mechanism, a gear assembly, a transmission assembly and a rotating seat for fixed connection with the mirror base.

[0009] The fixed end of the drive mechanism is installed in the assembly chamber formed by the first end of the housing and the first end of the base;

[0010] Both the transmission assembly and the gear assembly are installed between the housing and the base;

[0011] The transmission assembly and the gear assembly are arranged sequentially from bottom to top on the second end of the base, and the base can rotate relative to the gear assembly;

[0012] The transmission component is coaxially arranged with the gear component and can be connected to the gear component for transmission.

[0013] The gear assembly is connected to the output end of the drive mechanism in a transmission manner;

[0014] The transmission component is coaxially arranged with the rotating seat and is always connected to it in a relatively static manner.

[0015] The base has a limiting groove on the side facing the rotating seat;

[0016] The rotating seat is provided with an elastic element and a limiting component for limiting the limiting groove on the side facing the base. The elastic element can create a gap between the rotating seat and the base.

[0017] When the base is limited and the gear assembly continues to rotate in the limited direction, the gear assembly presses against the transmission assembly in the axial direction, so that the rotating seat is in contact with the base.

[0018] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: A rotating seat is fixed on the mirror base, and a transmission assembly is fixed through the rotating seat. The gear assembly is then connected to the transmission assembly, allowing the housing and base to move relative to each other under the drive of the drive mechanism, thus realizing the folding and unfolding of the rearview mirror. Due to the elastic element, a gap is always maintained between the base and the rotating seat during the relative movement, reducing rotational resistance. When the base is limited by the limiting assembly, the gear assembly is continuously subjected to a driving force in the opposite direction. Therefore, the gear assembly moves simultaneously along the axial and circumferential directions under the drive of the drive mechanism, and then presses against the transmission assembly. The transmission assembly applies axial pressure to the base, causing the rotating seat to fit against the base, and the rearview mirror will be in a stationary state. This invention, through the action of the elastic element, ensures a gap between the base and the rotating seat during the folding and unfolding of the rearview mirror, reducing frictional resistance. Furthermore, it allows the base and the rotating seat to make tight contact after rotation, overcoming the defects of sand easily entering between the mirror base plate and the mirror base, and the generation of wind noise. This extends the service life of the rearview mirror drive device and ensures the effectiveness of the rearview mirror folding and unfolding. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 An explosion of a folding drive device in this invention Figure 1 ;

[0020] Figure 2 An explosion of a folding drive device in this invention Figure 2 ;

[0021] Figure 3 A partial explosion of a folding drive device in this invention. Figure 1 ;

[0022] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of section A;

[0023] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Enlarged view of section B;

[0024] Figure 6 A partial explosion of a folding drive device in this invention. Figure 2 ;

[0025] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Enlarged view of section C;

[0026] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the base and worm gear assembly in this invention;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a folding drive device in motion according to the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0028] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a folding drive device in the present invention in a folded and stationary state. Figure 1 ;

[0029] Figure 11 for Figure 10 Sectional view of part D in the middle;

[0030] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the mirror base and mirror substrate in this invention;

[0031] Figure 13 A partial explosion of a folding drive device in this invention. Figure 3 ;

[0032] Figure 14 for Figure 13 Enlarged view of section E in the middle;

[0033] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of a folding drive device in motion according to the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0034] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of a folding drive device in the present invention in a folded and stationary state. Figure 2 ;

[0035] Figure 17 for Figure 16 Enlarged view of section F in the middle.

[0036] Label Explanation:

[0037] 1. Mirror substrate; 11. Stop block;

[0038] 2. Mirror base; 21. Limiting protrusion;

[0039] 3. Shell; 31. Top cover; 32. Bottom shell;

[0040] 4. Base; 40. Assembly chamber; 41. Snap ring; 42. Limiting groove; 421. Third climbing ramp; 422. Stop surface; 43. U-shaped groove;

[0041] 5. Drive mechanism; 51. Drive motor; 52. Worm gear assembly; 521. Worm gear body; 522. Transmission gear; 53. Bushing;

[0042] 6. Gear assembly; 61. Boss; 623. Fourth climbing ramp; 624. Fifth climbing ramp; 611. Sixth climbing ramp; 612. Seventh climbing ramp; 62. Limiting plate; 621. First step surface; 622. Second step surface; 63. Wear-resistant pad;

[0043] 7. Transmission assembly; 71. Rib; 72. Gear washer; 721. Guide groove; 7211. First climbing ramp; 7212. Second climbing ramp;

[0044] 8. Rotating seat; 81. Slot; 82. Lifting slot; 83. Blind hole; 84. Groove;

[0045] 9. Elastic component; 91. Limiting part;

[0046] 10. Limiting component; 101. First spring; 102. Stop pin;

[0047] 20. Rotary shaft; 201. Limiting plate;

[0048] 30. Second spring; 50. Rearview mirror; 60. Elastic component. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To explain in detail the technical content, objectives, and effects of the present invention, the following description is provided in conjunction with the embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0050] Please refer to Figures 1-17 A folding drive device includes a housing for driving connection with a mirror base plate and a base connected to the housing, and also includes a drive mechanism, a gear assembly, a transmission assembly and a rotating seat for fixed connection with the mirror base.

[0051] The fixed end of the drive mechanism is installed in the assembly chamber formed by the first end of the housing and the first end of the base;

[0052] Both the transmission assembly and the gear assembly are installed between the housing and the base;

[0053] The transmission assembly and the gear assembly are arranged sequentially from bottom to top on the second end of the base, and the base can rotate relative to the gear assembly;

[0054] The transmission component is coaxially arranged with the gear component and can be connected to the gear component for transmission.

[0055] The gear assembly is connected to the output end of the drive mechanism in a transmission manner;

[0056] The transmission component is coaxially arranged with the rotating seat and is always connected to it in a relatively static manner.

[0057] The base has a limiting groove on the side facing the rotating seat;

[0058] The rotating seat is provided with an elastic element and a limiting component for limiting the limiting groove on the side facing the base. The elastic element can create a gap between the rotating seat and the base.

[0059] When the base is limited and the gear assembly continues to rotate in the limited direction, the gear assembly presses against the transmission assembly in the axial direction, so that the rotating seat is in contact with the base.

[0060] The working principle of this invention is as follows:

[0061] When the rearview mirror is in motion, the base and the gear assembly can move relative to each other. The axial pressure of the gear assembly on the rotating seat is removed, and under the push of the elastic element, a gap can be generated between the rotating seat and the base, reducing the transmission resistance.

[0062] When the rearview mirror is folded or unfolded into place, i.e. the base is in the limit position and the gear assembly is still under axial driving force, the gear assembly will be lifted to apply pressure to the rotating seat, so that the rotating seat fits into the base, the gap is closed, and wind noise is avoided while preventing sand from entering.

[0063] As can be seen from the above description, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: a rotating seat is fixed on the mirror base, a transmission assembly is fixed through the rotating seat, and the gear assembly is connected to the transmission assembly for transmission. This allows the housing and base to move relative to the gear assembly under the drive of the drive mechanism, thereby realizing the folding and unfolding of the rearview mirror. Due to the setting of the elastic element, there is always a gap between the base and the rotating seat during the relative movement, reducing rotational resistance. When the base is limited by the limiting assembly, the gear assembly is continuously subjected to a driving force in the opposite direction. Therefore, the gear assembly moves simultaneously in the axial and circumferential directions under the drive of the drive mechanism, and then presses against the transmission assembly. The transmission assembly applies pressure to the base in the axial direction, so that after the rotating seat and the base are in contact, the rearview mirror will be in a stationary state. This invention utilizes an elastic element to maintain a gap between the base and the rotating seat during the folding and unfolding process of the rearview mirror, reducing frictional resistance. Furthermore, it ensures close contact between the base and the rotating seat after rotation, overcoming the defects of sand easily entering between the mirror base plate and the mirror base and the generation of wind noise. This extends the service life of the rearview mirror drive device and ensures the effectiveness of the rearview mirror folding and unfolding.

[0064] Furthermore, the transmission assembly includes a rib and a hollow gear washer;

[0065] The gear shim is sleeved on the outer side of one end of the rotating seat;

[0066] The rib is provided on the inner circumference of the gear washer and is used to engage with the slot on the outer surface of the rotating seat.

[0067] As described above, the ribs are provided to allow the gear shim to be statically connected to the rotating seat. Since the gear assembly can be connected to the gear shim for transmission, when the drive mechanism is activated and the base is not restricted, the base and housing can rotate relative to the gear assembly, gear shim, and rotating seat, thereby enabling the rearview mirror to fold and unfold.

[0068] Furthermore, the gear washer has a guide groove in the circumferential direction;

[0069] The gear assembly has a boss on the side facing the gear washer that matches the guide groove. When the boss is embedded in the guide groove, the gear washer can rotate with the gear assembly.

[0070] As described above, the boss is provided to improve the transmission reliability between the gear shim and the transmission assembly.

[0071] Furthermore, the guide groove has a first climbing slope and a second climbing slope at its two ends in the circumferential direction, respectively;

[0072] When the limiting component is limited and the gear assembly continues to rotate in the limited direction, the boss can move up and down along the first or second climbing slope to make the gear pad press the elastic member up and down in the axial direction.

[0073] As described above, the first and second climbing ramps are provided so that the gear assembly can climb smoothly when it is subjected to driving forces in different directions, and apply pressure to the rotating seat so that the base presses against the rotating seat, thus avoiding the occurrence of gaps during the operation or stationary process of the car. This ensures that there is no wind noise and also prevents sand from entering, thereby reducing transmission resistance.

[0074] Furthermore, the rotating seat has a lifting groove in the circumferential direction on the side facing the housing for assembling the elastic element;

[0075] The two ends of the elastic element press against the two sides of the lifting groove in the circumferential direction, causing the middle part of the elastic element to arch up, and the highest point of the middle part of the elastic element is higher than the top of the lifting groove in the axial direction.

[0076] As described above, the lifting groove is set to limit the elastic element in the circumferential direction, ensuring that the elastic element can lift the base in the axial direction, ensuring the generation of gaps during the rotation of the base, and reducing rotational resistance.

[0077] Furthermore, one end of the limiting groove has a third climbing slope, and the other end of the limiting groove has a stop surface for limiting the limiting component;

[0078] The limiting groove is provided in multiple ways, and the multiple limiting grooves are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction and arranged in sequence.

[0079] As described above, the base is limited in one rotational direction in the circumferential direction, and a third climbing ramp is provided in the other rotational direction. The limiting component can be inserted into the adjacent limiting groove, so that the base can rotate smoothly and ensure that the rearview mirror can rotate into place. When the base rotates towards the side where the third climbing ramp is located, the base is limited by the limiting structure between the mirror base plate and the mirror base, which can also achieve the effect of limiting the base and making the gear assembly climb, ensuring that the base is pressed against the rotating seat, and preventing the entry of sand and the generation of wind noise.

[0080] Furthermore, the limiting component includes a first spring and a stop pin;

[0081] The rotating seat has a blind hole on the side facing the base;

[0082] The first spring and one end of the stop pin are sequentially installed in the blind hole along the axial direction, and the first spring and the stop pin are coaxially arranged.

[0083] As can be seen from the above description, since the stop pin should always move within the limiting groove during the operation of the base, a first spring and a stop pin are provided to push the stop pin to move axially, ensuring that the stop pin can limit the base and improve the reliability of the base movement.

[0084] Furthermore, it also includes a pivot and a second spring;

[0085] The second spring is sleeved on the outside of the rotating shaft;

[0086] A limiting bracket is provided on the outer side of the end of the rotating shaft away from the base;

[0087] The second spring is located between the limiting plate and the gear assembly, and is used to reset the gear assembly.

[0088] The rotating shaft is inserted from the side of the housing away from the base and passes sequentially through the gear assembly and the transmission assembly, and is statically connected to the rotating seat.

[0089] As described above, a second spring is provided to apply pressure to the gear assembly in the axial direction. This ensures that when the reverse force on the base in the circumferential direction is removed, the drive mechanism applies a reverse pushing force to the gear assembly, and under the push of the second spring, the gear assembly is reset. This ensures that a gap is generated between the base and the rotating seat during the rotation of the rearview mirror, reducing transmission resistance.

[0090] Furthermore, the drive mechanism includes a worm gear assembly;

[0091] The worm gear assembly is fitted with bushings at both ends in the axial direction;

[0092] The base has a worm groove for providing rotation space for the worm gear assembly;

[0093] A U-shaped groove is provided at each end of the worm gear groove;

[0094] Both ends of the worm gear assembly are embedded in the U-shaped groove;

[0095] The U-shaped groove is equipped with an elastic element, which can press against the bushing.

[0096] As described above, bushings are fitted at both ends of the worm gear assembly. When the motor of the drive mechanism drives the worm gear assembly to rotate forward or backward, there is an instantaneous axial driving force, which will drive the worm gear assembly to move axially. The elastic element can provide a reverse force to the worm gear assembly in the axial direction, so as to avoid the worm gear assembly from colliding with the U-shaped groove 4, thereby avoiding the generation of noise.

[0097] Furthermore, the guide groove has a first climbing slope and a second climbing slope at its two ends in the circumferential direction, respectively;

[0098] A limiting platform is provided on the side of the gear assembly facing the gear shim, and the boss is provided on the side of the limiting platform facing the gear shim.

[0099] When the limiting component is limited and the gear assembly continues to rotate in the limited direction, the boss can move up along the first or second climbing slope and press one end of the limiting platform against the side of the gear pad facing the housing.

[0100] As described above, the first and second climbing ramps are provided so that the gear assembly can climb smoothly when it is subjected to driving forces in different directions, and apply pressure to the rotating seat so that the base presses against the rotating seat, thus avoiding the occurrence of gaps during the operation or stationary process of the car. This ensures that there is no wind noise and also prevents sand from entering, thereby reducing transmission resistance.

[0101] This invention is applicable to various folding scenarios, especially in electric rearview mirrors. In this invention, each embodiment is illustrated using an electric rearview mirror as an example.

[0102] Example 1

[0103] Reference Figures 1-17A folding drive device includes a housing 3 for transmission connection with a mirror base 1 and a base 4 connected to the housing 3. It also includes a drive mechanism 5, a gear assembly 6, a transmission assembly 7, and a rotating seat 8 for fixed connection with the mirror base 2. The fixed end of the drive mechanism 5 is installed in an assembly chamber 40 formed by the first end of the housing 3 and the first end of the base 4. The transmission assembly 7 and the gear assembly 6 are both installed between the housing 3 and the base 4. The transmission assembly 7 and the gear assembly 6 are sequentially arranged from bottom to top on the second end of the base 4, and the base 4 is rotatable relative to the gear assembly 6. The transmission assembly 7 and the gear assembly 6 are coaxial. The gear assembly 6 is connected to the gear assembly 6 for transmission; the gear assembly 6 is connected to the output end of the drive mechanism 5 for transmission; the transmission assembly 7 is coaxially arranged with the rotating seat 8 and is always relatively stationary; the base 4 has a limiting groove 42 on the side facing the rotating seat 8; the rotating seat 8 has an elastic element 9 and a limiting assembly 10 for limiting the limiting groove 42 on the side facing the base 4, and the elastic element 9 can create a gap between the rotating seat 8 and the base 4; when the base 4 is limited and the gear assembly 6 continues to rotate in the limited direction, the gear assembly 6 presses against the transmission assembly 7 in the axial direction, so that the rotating seat 8 and the base 4 are in contact. Specifically, the housing 3 and the base 4 are detachably connected; the base 4 is fixed to the rotating seat 8 by a retaining ring 41.

[0104] In this embodiment, during the unfolding process of the rearview mirror 50, after the base 4 rotates to its position, it is limited by the limiting component 10. At this time, the gear assembly 6 climbs up and presses down on the transmission assembly 7 and the base 4, so that the base 4 presses against the rotating seat 8, eliminating the gap. During the folding process of the rearview mirror 50, after the base 4 rotates to its position, there is a limiting structure between the mirror base plate 1 and the mirror base 2 of the rearview mirror 50. By limiting the mirror base plate 1, the housing 3 is limited, thereby causing the gear assembly 6 to climb in the opposite direction. Similarly, after the gear assembly 6 climbs up, it presses down on the transmission assembly 7 and the base 4, so that the base 4 presses against the rotating seat 8, eliminating the gap.

[0105] Specifically, refer to Figure 12 The limiting structure includes a stop block 11 disposed on the mirror base plate 1 and a limiting protrusion 21 disposed on the mirror base 2. When the rearview mirror 50 is folded into place, the base 4 is also rotated into place. At this time, the stop block 11 presses against the limiting protrusion 21 on one side in the circumferential direction, so that the mirror base plate 1 cannot continue to be folded.

[0106] Example 2

[0107] It is worth noting that in this embodiment, the rearview mirror 50 is taken as the left rearview mirror 50 of a car, and the clockwise and counterclockwise directions are both the directions from the top view angle.

[0108] Reference Figures 1-11A folding drive device, based on Embodiment 1, includes a transmission component 7 comprising a rib 71 and a hollow gear washer 72; the gear washer 72 is sleeved on the outer side of one end of the rotating seat 8; the rib 71 is disposed on the inner circumference of the gear washer 72 for engaging with a groove 81 on the outer surface of the rotating seat 8. Preferably, six ribs 71 are provided.

[0109] Reference Figures 1-11 The gear washer 72 has a guide groove 721 in the circumferential direction; the gear assembly 6 has a boss 61 on the side facing the gear washer 72 that matches the guide groove 721. When the boss 61 is embedded in the guide groove 721, the gear washer 72 can rotate with the gear assembly 6. Optionally, one or more bosses 61 and guide grooves 721 can be provided. Preferably, three bosses 61 and three guide grooves 721 are provided.

[0110] Reference Figures 1-11 The guide groove 721 has a first climbing slope 7211 and a second climbing slope 7212 at its two ends in the circumferential direction. A limiting platform 62 is provided on the side of the gear assembly 6 facing the gear pad 72, and a boss 61 is provided on the side of the limiting platform 62 facing the gear pad 72. When the limiting assembly 10 is limited and the gear assembly 6 continues to rotate in the limited direction, the boss 61 can move upward along the first climbing slope 7211 or the second climbing slope 7212, and one end of the limiting platform 62 presses against the side of the gear pad 72 facing the housing 3. Specifically, the limiting platform 62 has a first step surface 621 and a second step surface 622. The first step surface 621 and the second step surface 622 are respectively connected to the side of the gear pad 72 facing the base 4 through a fourth climbing slope 623 and a fifth climbing slope 624. The boss 61 has a sixth climbing slope 611 and a seventh climbing slope 612 on its two sides in the circumferential direction. Preferably, the limiting platform 62 is provided with three.

[0111] Reference Figures 1-11 The rotating seat 8 has a lifting groove 82 circumferentially formed on the side facing the housing 3 for assembling the elastic member 9. The two ends of the elastic member 9 abut against the two sides of the lifting groove 82 circumferentially, causing the middle part of the elastic member 9 to arch, and the highest point of the middle part of the elastic member 9 is axially higher than the top of the lifting groove 82. Optionally, one or more lifting grooves 82 and elastic members 9 can be provided; preferably, three lifting grooves 82 and three elastic members 9 are provided.

[0112] Reference Figures 1-11 One end of the limiting groove 42 has a third climbing slope 421, and the other end of the limiting groove 42 has a stop surface 422 for limiting the limiting component 10; multiple limiting grooves 42 are provided, and the multiple limiting grooves 42 are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction and arranged sequentially. Preferably, three limiting grooves 42 are provided.

[0113] Reference Figures 1-11 The limiting component 10 includes a first spring 101 and a stop pin 102; a blind hole 83 is provided on the side of the rotating seat 8 facing the base 4; one end of the first spring 101 and the stop pin 102 are sequentially installed in the blind hole 83 along the axial direction, and the other end of the stop pin 102 is always located in the limiting groove 42, and the first spring 101 and the stop pin 102 are coaxially arranged. Optionally, one or more limiting components 10 can be provided, preferably, three limiting components 10 are provided.

[0114] Reference Figures 1-11 It also includes a rotating shaft 20 and a second spring 30; the second spring 30 is sleeved on the outside of the rotating shaft 20; a limiting plate 201 is provided on the outer side of the end of the rotating shaft 20 away from the base 4; the second spring 30 is located between the limiting plate 201 and the gear assembly 6, and is used to reset the pushing gear assembly 6; the rotating shaft 20 is inserted from the side of the housing 3 away from the base 4 and passes through the gear assembly 6 and the transmission assembly 7 in sequence, and is relatively stationary with respect to the rotating seat 8. Preferably, both the first spring 101 and the second spring 30 are compression springs. Specifically, a wear-resistant gasket 63 is provided between the second spring 30 and the gear assembly 6.

[0115] Reference Figures 1-11 The drive mechanism 5 includes a drive motor 51 and a worm gear assembly 52; the worm gear assembly 52 is installed between the base 4 and the housing 3; the output end of the drive motor 51 is connected to the gear assembly 6 through the worm gear assembly 52.

[0116] Reference Figures 1-11 The worm gear assembly 52 includes a worm body 521 and a transmission gear 522; the transmission gear 522 meshes with the output end of the drive motor 51; the transmission gear 522 forms a worm gear transmission structure with the gear assembly 6 through the worm body 521, and is used to transmit power to the gear assembly 6.

[0117] Reference Figures 1-11 Specifically, one end of the elastic member 9 has a right-angled folded edge, and the other end is flat. The two ends of the elastic member 9 are in the shape of an arch bridge. The outer edge of the middle part of the elastic member 9 has a limiting part 91, which can be inserted into the groove 84 on the outer circumference of the rotating seat 8 in the axial direction.

[0118] The specific implementation process of this embodiment is as follows:

[0119] Reference Figure 9 When the rearview mirror 50 is in the folding process, the base 4 rotates counterclockwise relative to the gear assembly 6, the limiting platform 62 and the boss 61 slide into the guide groove 721 and are locked together, the gear assembly 6 and the gear washer 72 remain stationary, at this time the stop pin 102 moves relative to the guide groove 721, and the stop pin 102 enters the next guide groove 721 along the third climbing slope 421;

[0120] During this process, the arched part in the middle of the elastic sheet supports the base 4, so that the base 4 and the rotating seat 8 always have a gap a, the distance of gap a is 0.4mm to 1.0mm;

[0121] Until the mirror base plate 1 is rotated into place and the mirror base plate 1 is limited by the mirror base 2, the housing 3 and the base 4 are limited. The drive motor 51 continuously applies a force to the gear assembly 6 in the clockwise direction, causing the fifth climbing slope 624 and the seventh climbing slope 612 to move upward along the second climbing slope 7212 in sequence, and causing the second step surface 622 to press against the side of the gear pad 72 facing the gear assembly 6. At this time, the base 4 applies pressure to the elastic member 9, and the base 4 and the rotating seat 8 fit tightly together, eliminating the gap a. There is a gap b between the gear assembly 6 and the gear pad 72, and the distance of gap b is equal to the distance of gap a.

[0122] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 When the rearview mirror 50 is unfolding, the base 4 rotates clockwise relative to the gear assembly 6, the seventh climbing ramp 612 moves down along the second climbing ramp 7212, the limiting platform 62 and the boss 61 slide into the guide groove 721 and are locked together, the gear assembly 6 and the gear washer 72 remain stationary, at this time the stop pin 102 moves relative to the guide groove 721, and the stop surface 422 gradually approaches the stop pin 102;

[0123] During this process, the arched part in the middle of the elastic element 9 supports the base 4, so that there is always a gap between the base 4 and the rotating seat 8.

[0124] Until the stop surface 422 is in contact with the stop pin 102, the base 4 is limited. The fourth climbing slope 623 and the sixth climbing slope 611 move up along the first climbing slope 7211 in sequence, and the second step surface 622 presses against the side of the gear washer 72 facing the gear assembly 6. At this time, the base 4 applies pressure to the elastic element 9, and the base 4 and the rotating seat 8 are tightly in contact, eliminating the gap a. There is a gap b between the gear assembly 6 and the gear washer 72, and the distance of gap b is equal to the distance of gap a.

[0125] Example 3

[0126] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17 A folding drive device, based on Embodiment 1, includes a transmission component 7 comprising a rib 71 and a hollow gear washer 72; the gear washer 72 is sleeved on the outer side of one end of the rotating seat 8; the rib 71 is disposed on the inner circumference of the gear washer 72 for engaging with a groove 81 on the outer surface of the rotating seat 8. Preferably, six ribs 71 are provided.

[0127] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17 The gear washer 72 has a guide groove 721 in the circumferential direction; the gear assembly 6 has a boss 61 on the side facing the gear washer 72 that matches the guide groove 721. When the boss 61 is embedded in the guide groove 721, the gear washer 72 can rotate with the gear assembly 6. Optionally, one or more bosses 61 and guide grooves 721 can be provided. Preferably, three bosses 61 and three guide grooves 721 are provided.

[0128] Reference Figure 7 The guide groove 721 has a first climbing slope 7211 and a second climbing slope 7212 at its two ends in the circumferential direction. When the limiting component 10 is limited and the gear assembly 6 continues to rotate in the limited direction, the boss 61 can move upward along the first climbing slope 7211 or the second climbing slope 7212 to make the gear washer 72 press the elastic member 9 up and down in the axial direction. Specifically, the boss 61 has a sixth climbing slope 611 and a seventh climbing slope 612 on its two sides in the circumferential direction.

[0129] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17 The rotating seat 8 has a lifting groove 82 circumferentially formed on the side facing the housing 3 for assembling the elastic member 9. The two ends of the elastic member 9 abut against the two sides of the lifting groove 82 circumferentially, causing the middle part of the elastic member 9 to arch, and the highest point of the middle part of the elastic member 9 is axially higher than the top of the lifting groove 82. Optionally, one or more lifting grooves 82 and elastic members 9 can be provided; preferably, three lifting grooves 82 and three elastic members 9 are provided.

[0130] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17 One end of the limiting groove 42 has a third climbing slope 421, and the other end of the limiting groove 42 has a stop surface 422 for limiting the limiting component 10; multiple limiting grooves 42 are provided, and the multiple limiting grooves 42 are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction and arranged sequentially. Preferably, three limiting grooves 42 are provided.

[0131] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17The limiting component 10 includes a first spring 101 and a stop pin 102; a blind hole 83 is provided on the side of the rotating seat 8 facing the base 4; one end of the first spring 101 and the stop pin 102 are sequentially installed in the blind hole 83 along the axial direction, and the other end of the stop pin 102 is always located in the guide groove 721, and the first spring 101 and the stop pin 102 are coaxially arranged. Optionally, one or more limiting components 10 can be provided, preferably, three limiting components 10 are provided.

[0132] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17 It also includes a rotating shaft 20 and a second spring 30; the second spring 30 is sleeved on the outside of the rotating shaft 20; a limiting plate 201 is provided on the outer side of the end of the rotating shaft 20 away from the base 4; the second spring 30 is located between the limiting plate 201 and the gear assembly 6, and is used to reset the pushing gear assembly 6; the rotating shaft 20 is inserted from the side of the housing 3 away from the base 4 and passes through the gear assembly 6 and the transmission assembly 7 in sequence, and is relatively stationary with respect to the rotating seat 8. Preferably, both the first spring 101 and the second spring 30 are compression springs. Specifically, a wear-resistant gasket 63 is provided between the second spring 30 and the gear assembly 6.

[0133] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17 The drive mechanism 5 includes a drive motor 51 and a worm gear assembly 52; the worm gear assembly 52 is installed between the base 4 and the housing 3; the output end of the drive motor 51 is connected to the gear assembly 6 through the worm gear assembly 52.

[0134] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17 The worm gear assembly 52 includes a worm body 521 and a transmission gear 522; the transmission gear 522 meshes with the output end of the drive motor 51; the transmission gear 522 forms a worm gear transmission structure with the gear assembly 6 through the worm body 521, and is used to transmit power to the gear assembly 6.

[0135] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figures 12-17 Specifically, one end of the elastic member 9 has a right-angled folded edge, and the other end is flat. The two ends of the elastic member 9 are in the shape of an arch bridge. The outer edge of the middle part of the elastic member 9 has a limiting part 91, which can be inserted into the groove 84 on the outer circumference of the rotating seat 8 in the axial direction.

[0136] The specific implementation process of this embodiment is as follows:

[0137] Reference Figure 15 When the rearview mirror 50 is in the folding process, the base 4 rotates counterclockwise relative to the gear assembly 6, the boss 61 slides into the guide groove 721 and is locked together, the gear assembly 6 and the gear washer 72 remain stationary, at this time the stop pin 102 moves relative to the guide groove 721, and the stop pin 102 enters the next guide groove 721 along the third climbing slope 421.

[0138] During this process, the arched part in the middle of the elastic element 9 supports the base 4, so that the base 4 and the rotating seat 8 always have a gap a, the distance of gap a is 0.4mm to 1.0mm;

[0139] Until the mirror base plate 1 is rotated into place and the mirror base plate 1 is limited by the mirror base 2, the housing 3 and the base 4 are limited. The drive motor 51 continuously applies force to the gear assembly 6 in the clockwise direction, causing the seventh climbing slope 612 to move up along the second climbing slope 7212. At this time, the base 4 applies pressure to the elastic element 9, and the base 4 and the rotating seat 8 fit tightly together, eliminating the gap.

[0140] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17 When the rearview mirror 50 is unfolding, the base 4 rotates clockwise relative to the gear assembly 6, the seventh climbing ramp 612 moves down along the second climbing ramp 7212, the boss 61 slides into the guide groove 721 and is locked together, the gear assembly 6 and the gear washer 72 remain stationary, at this time the stop pin 102 moves relative to the guide groove 721, and the stop surface 422 gradually approaches the stop pin 102;

[0141] During this process, the arched part in the middle of the elastic element 9 supports the base 4, so that there is always a gap between the base 4 and the rotating seat 8.

[0142] Until the stop surface 422 is in contact with the stop pin 102, the base 4 is limited, and the sixth climbing slope 611 moves up along the first climbing slope 7211. At this time, the base 4 applies pressure to the elastic element 9, and the base 4 and the rotating seat 8 are tightly in contact, eliminating the gap.

[0143] Example 4

[0144] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 8A folding drive device, based on Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2, or Embodiment 3, has bushings 53 fitted at both ends of the worm gear assembly 52 in the axial direction. A worm groove is provided on the base 4 to provide rotational space for the worm gear assembly 52. ​​A U-shaped groove 43 is provided at each end of the worm groove, and an elastic element 60 is installed within the U-shaped groove 43. The elastic element 60 can press against the bushings 53. Since there is an instantaneous axial driving force when the drive motor 51 drives the worm gear assembly 52 to rotate forward or reverse, causing the worm gear assembly 52 to move axially, the elastic element 60 provides a reverse force to the worm gear assembly 52 in the axial direction, preventing the worm gear assembly 52 from colliding with the U-shaped groove 43, thereby avoiding noise generation. Specifically, the force value of the elastic element 60 can be obtained by adjusting the wire diameter or shape; the elastic element 60 is a metal elastic wire.

[0145] Example 5

[0146] Reference Figure 1 A folding drive device, based on Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2, or Embodiment 3, wherein the housing 3 includes a lower housing 32 and an upper cover 31; the upper cover 31 is snapped into one end of the lower housing 32.

[0147] In summary, the folding drive device provided by the present invention, through the cooperation of elastic elements, gear assemblies and gear washers, achieves the formation of a gap between the base and the rotating seat during the movement of the rearview mirror, thereby reducing transmission resistance. Furthermore, by setting up a boss, a limiting platform, a guide groove, a limiting groove and a limiting assembly, it ensures that when the rearview mirror is folded or unfolded into place, there is no gap between the base and the rotating seat, preventing sand and dust from entering and reducing wind noise during vehicle operation.

[0148] The above description is merely an embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent modifications made based on the content of the present invention's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A mirror folding device comprising a housing for driving connection with a mirror base plate and a base connected with said housing, characterized in that, The drive mechanism, the gear assembly, the transmission assembly and the rotating seat for fixed connection with the mirror base are also included; The fixed end of the drive mechanism is arranged in the assembly chamber formed by the first end of the shell and the first end of the base; The transmission assembly and the gear assembly are arranged between the shell and the base; The transmission assembly and the gear assembly are arranged on the second end of the base in sequence from bottom to top, and the base can rotate relative to the gear assembly; The transmission assembly and the gear assembly are coaxially arranged and can be in transmission connection with the gear assembly; The gear assembly is in transmission connection with the output end of the drive mechanism; The transmission assembly is coaxially arranged with the rotating seat and is always in stationary connection; The side of the base facing the rotating seat is provided with a limiting groove; The side of the rotating seat facing the base is provided with an elastic member and a limiting assembly for limiting the limiting groove, and the elastic member can generate a gap between the rotating seat and the base. When the base is limited and the gear assembly continues to rotate in the limited direction, the gear assembly is pressed against the transmission assembly in the axial direction, so that the rotating seat is attached to the base. The transmission assembly includes a hollow gear gasket; the gear gasket is provided with a guide groove in the circumferential direction; The side of the gear assembly facing the gear gasket is provided with a boss matched with the guide groove, and when the boss is embedded in the guide groove, the gear gasket can rotate with the gear assembly; The two ends of the guide groove in the circumferential direction are respectively provided with a first climbing slope and a second climbing slope; one end of the limiting groove is provided with a third climbing slope, and the other end of the limiting groove is provided with a stop surface for limiting the limiting assembly; The side of the gear assembly facing the gear gasket is provided with a limiting table, and the boss is arranged on the side of the limiting table facing the gear gasket; When the limiting assembly is limited and the gear assembly continues to rotate in the limited direction, the boss can move upward along the first climbing slope or the second climbing slope, and one end of the limiting table is pressed against the side of the gear gasket facing the shell; The limiting table has a first step surface and a second step surface, and the first step surface and the second step surface are respectively connected to the side of the gear gasket facing the base through a fourth climbing slope and a fifth climbing slope; The boss has a sixth climbing slope and a seventh climbing slope on the two sides in the circumferential direction.

2. A mirror folding device according to claim 1, wherein The transmission assembly includes a convex rib and a hollow gear gasket; The gear gasket is sleeved on the outside of one end of the rotating seat; The convex rib is arranged on the inner circumference of the gear gasket and is used for clamping with the clamping groove on the outer surface of the rotating seat.

3. A folding device for a mirror according to claim 1, wherein The side of the rotating seat facing the shell is provided with a lifting groove in the circumferential direction for assembling the elastic member; The two ends of the elastic member are respectively pressed against the two sides of the lifting groove in the circumferential direction, and the middle part of the elastic member is arched, and the highest point of the middle part of the elastic member is higher than the top of the lifting groove in the axial direction.

4. A mirror folding device according to claim 1, wherein One end of the limiting groove has a third climbing slope, and the other end of the limiting groove has a stop surface for limiting the limiting assembly; A plurality of limiting grooves are evenly distributed and sequentially arranged in the circumferential direction.

5. The folding mirror assembly of claim 1, wherein: The limiting assembly comprises a first spring and a blocking pin; A blind hole is formed in the side of the rotating seat facing the base; The first spring and one end of the blocking pin are sequentially arranged in the blind hole in the axial direction, and the first spring and the blocking pin are coaxially arranged.

6. A mirror folding device according to claim 1, wherein Further comprising a rotating shaft and a second spring; The second spring is sleeved on the outer side of the rotating shaft; A limiting clamping table is arranged on the outer side of the end of the rotating shaft away from the base; The second spring is located between the limiting clamping table and the gear assembly, and is used for resetting the gear assembly; The rotating shaft is inserted from the side of the shell away from the base and sequentially passes through the gear assembly and the transmission assembly to be connected to the rotating seat in a relatively stationary manner.

7. A mirror folding device according to claim 1, wherein The driving mechanism comprises a worm assembly; Axial ends of the worm assembly are respectively sleeved with shaft sleeves; A worm groove is formed in the base to provide a rotating space for the worm assembly; Two ends of the worm groove are respectively provided with a U-shaped groove; The two ends of the worm assembly are embedded in the U-shaped groove; A resilient member is arranged in the U-shaped groove, and the resilient member can abut against the shaft sleeve.

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