Conversation Mirror Assembly in Sunglass Bin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern vehicles face space constraints in incorporating features like conversation mirrors without obstructing conventional rear-view mirrors, necessitating a space-saving design that allows for unobstructed views from both mirrors.
Innovation Solution
An overhead console assembly integrating a sunglass bin with a mirror assembly, utilizing an axial engagement assembly featuring a rotary damper and fixed pivot pin to maintain the mirror's position, allowing separate rotation and retention in a closed position within the bin's cavity, ensuring efficient use of limited space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the conversation mirror is deployed in an overhead position, then the forward seating occupant can view rearward portions of the passenger compartment, but the conventional rear-view mirror view may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The conversation mirror is positioned in the overhead console area, utilizing the vertical dimension above the windshield rather than competing for space in the traditional rear-view mirror location. This dimensional relocation allows both mirrors to function simultaneously without obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror system is segmented into two independent components: a conventional rear-view mirror and a separate conversation mirror. Each serves its specific function independently, with the conversation mirror providing rearward visibility for front passengers without interfering with the driver's rear-view mirror.
2Ease of operation
If a conversation mirror is added to the vehicle interior, then rearward visibility for front passengers is improved, but the available space in the overhead console is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The conversation mirror assembly is merged with the overhead console structure, specifically integrating it into or alongside the sunglass bin. This combination allows the mirror to be housed within the existing overhead console volume, utilizing otherwise wasted space and avoiding additional space consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The conversation mirror assembly is nested within the overhead console cavity, with the mirror housing positioned inside the available space. The sunglass bin and mirror assembly share the same overhead console footprint, with the mirror positioned to rotate within the existing structural envelope.
3Volume of moving object
If the mirror assembly is housed within the sunglass bin perimeter, then space is optimized, but the mirror mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The axial engagement assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides rotational movement for the mirror, maintains the mirror in the closed position within the sunglass bin, and enables easy access and adjustment. This multi-functional mechanism reduces the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The axial engagement assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the mirror assembly and the sunglass bin structure. It mediates the relationship by providing a standardized interface that enables rotation and retention without requiring complex integration of multiple separate mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design provides a space-saving solution that allows for unobstructed views from both the conversation mirror and rear-view mirror, enhancing visibility while optimizing vehicle interior space by housing the mirror assembly within the sunglass bin, which can be easily accessed and adjusted.
Implementation Method 1
a rotary damper, fixed pivot pin and rotational pivot pin which are operable to maintain a position of a conversation mirror about a positioning axis relative to the sunglass bin
Implementation Method 2
The rotary damper, fixed pivot pin and rotational pivot pin which are operable to maintain a position of a conversation mirror
Data Source
AI summary
An overhead console assembly for a vehicle comprising a sunglass bin is disclosed. The sunglass bin defines an outer perimeter configured to be disposed in an overhead console. The overhead console assembly also includes a mirror assembly configured within the outer perimeter of the sunglass bin. The mirror assembly includes an axial engagement assembly that connects the mirror assembly to the sunglass bin. The axial engagement assembly comprises a damper operable to maintain a position of a conversation mirror about a positioning axis relative to the sunglass bin.