Vehicle Camera Mounting Assembly for Single-Step Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of optical systems, including camera devices and cleaning mechanisms, on vehicle body elements is complex and prone to errors, with existing solutions not adequately addressing the integration of these systems to ensure reliable operation and easy installation.
Innovation Solution
A mounting arrangement that includes a housing element with a flexible tongue for securing the optical device, a reversible intermediate piece for fixing to the vehicle body, and an adjustable fixing element with metal clips and adhesive material, allowing for simple and secure assembly of both the camera and cleaning devices on the vehicle body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the optical system and cleaning device are mounted separately on the vehicle body, then each component can be installed independently, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the optical system housing and cleaning device into a single integrated mounting structure. The housing element (2) and retaining element (3) form a unified assembly that is pre-mounted together, allowing both components to be installed as one unit on the vehicle body element (9), thereby simplifying the assembly process while reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system and cleaning device are pre-assembled into a complete mounting unit before being installed on the vehicle. The housing element, retaining element, and intermediate piece are prepared in advance with all necessary mounting features (flexible tabs, notches, metal clips) already in place, enabling a single-step installation process that eliminates complex on-site assembly.
2Ease of operation
If traditional rigid mounting structures are used, then the mounting is stable, but the assembly process is complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible tabs (8) with notches (8a) made of elastomeric or plastic material that can deform during insertion and then elastic recovery to secure the optical system. This flexible mounting mechanism simplifies installation by allowing easy insertion and automatic securing, while maintaining reliable mounting stability through the elastic retention force of the deformed tabs.
3Device complexity
If the camera housing is directly mounted to the support, then the structure is simple, but the electrical connection and alignment are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate piece (14, 19) as a mediator between the housing element and the vehicle body element. This intermediate piece carries both the fixing elements (metal clips, adhesive) and the electrical interface (7), enabling simultaneous mechanical mounting and electrical connection in a single installation step, thereby simplifying the installation process while ensuring reliable electrical connectivity.
4Ease of operation
If fixed angular positioning is used, then the mounting is stable, but the adjustment and alignment are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides adjustable angular positioning elements that allow the housing element to be rotated and oriented at different angles relative to the intermediate piece during installation. Once the desired angular position is achieved for proper alignment, the flexible tabs and metal clips secure the housing in that position, providing stable mounting while enabling easy angular adjustment during the installation process.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement (1) for mounting an optical system on a body element of a vehicle, the optical system comprising an image capturing device (2') and a device for projecting a cleaning fluid (3') from the image capturing device. According to the invention, the arrangement comprises a housing element (2) for holding the image capturing device (2') in the mounting position; a holding element (3) of the fluid projection device (3') for placing the latter in a functional position with respect to the image capturing device (2') disposed in the mounting position, and a fastening element (4), on which the housing element (2) and the holding element (3) are mounted, wherein the fastening element (4) is intended to be fastened to the body element of the vehicle.