Blind Connector for Rearview Mirror Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview mirror assemblies face challenges in efficiently and automatically connecting electrical components, leading to complex and unreliable connections that can affect the functionality and durability of the mirror systems.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves a method where a rearview mirror assembly is constructed by providing a rear housing section with wiring connected to a first electrical connection device and a circuit board with a second electrical connection device, allowing them to automatically mate when moved relative to each other, ensuring secure and reliable electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual connection methods are used for electrical components in rearview mirror assemblies, then connection reliability may be improved through careful alignment, but assembly complexity and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection devices are designed to automatically mate with each other when the circuit board is inserted into the housing, eliminating the need for manual alignment or connection operations. The system serves itself by using the insertion motion to simultaneously position and connect the electrical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the mechanical positioning function and electrical connection function into a single integrated action. When the circuit board is inserted into the housing, both the mechanical assembly and electrical connection are accomplished simultaneously through the merged design of the mounting structure and electrical connection devices.
2Reliability
If traditional electrical connection methods are used in rearview mirror assemblies, then connection stability can be maintained, but assembly time and production efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection devices are pre-positioned and pre-configured on the circuit board and housing respectively, before assembly. The connection interfaces are prepared in advance with alignment features that guide the automatic mating process, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic mating mechanism allows the electrical connection devices to connect themselves through the natural insertion motion of the circuit board into the housing, eliminating the need for separate connection operations and significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining connection stability.
3Reliability
If complex electrical connection systems are used in rearview mirror assemblies, then connection reliability may be improved, but the overall system complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is segmented into two separate but complementary components: a first electrical connection device on the housing and a second electrical connection device on the circuit board. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled together through a simple automatic mating process, reducing overall manufacturing difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure serves as an intermediary element that facilitates the automatic connection between the circuit board and housing. The mounting structure includes guide features and positioning elements that mediate the alignment and mating process, making the manufacturing of the complete assembly easier while ensuring reliable electrical connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A rearview mirror assembly comprising a rear housing section with wiring connected to a first electrical connection device and a circuit board with a second electrical connection device, with first electrical connection device and the second electrical connection device being configured to automatically mate when the circuit board and the rear housing section are moved relatively towards each other. The rearview mirror assembly can also include a circuit board with a third electrical connection device and a reflective element with a fourth electrical connection device, with third electrical connection device and the fourth electrical connection device being configured to automatically mate when the circuit board and the reflective element are moved relatively towards each other.