Elastomer Adjustable Mirror Joint Reducing Parts and Assembly Complexity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable mirrors for motor vehicles have a multi-part structure and complex assembly process due to the use of metal springs and teeth, making them heavier and harder to assemble.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable mirror design featuring an elastomer element between the mirror base and carrier, with radially aligned projections and a coupling element, simplifies assembly and reduces parts by using a form-fit or material bond, allowing for easier adjustment and vibration damping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal spring and multiple teeth are used to fix the mirror in specified positions, then the holding force is provided and pivoting movement is prevented, but the multi-part structure makes assembly difficult and the mirror heavier
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the spring element and the toothing into a single integrated component made of elastomeric material. This single component provides both the holding force through elastic deformation and the positioning function through integrated teeth, eliminating the need for separate metal spring and tooth components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses elastomeric material (such as vulcanized rubber or thermoplastic elastomer) that combines the properties of elasticity for providing holding force with the ability to form integrated toothing structures. This composite material approach replaces traditional metal components with a single elastomeric component.
2Reliability
If a metal spring with prestress is used to prevent pivoting movement, then the mirror is fixed in specified positions, but the assembly process becomes complex due to the need to prestress the spring
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric component automatically provides the necessary prestress and holding force through its inherent elastic properties when installed. The component self-adjusts to provide the required positioning force without requiring external prestressing operations or complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric component can be designed as a simple, easily replaceable part that is molded in the desired shape with integrated toothing. This simplifies manufacturing and assembly, as the component can be produced cost-effectively and installed without complex prestressing procedures.
3Reliability
If multiple components are used for the mirror joint, then the holding and positioning functions are achieved, but the number of parts increases and assembly is more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components (spring, teeth, positioning elements) into a single elastomeric component. This single component performs multiple functions simultaneously: providing holding force, enabling positioning at specified angles, and facilitating easy assembly, thereby increasing production efficiency.
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
The solution results in a lighter, easier-to-assemble mirror with reduced parts, secure holding of the mirror in desired positions, and effective vibration damping, while maintaining the ability to adjust the mirror's position.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomer element is arranged between the mirror base and the mirror carrier... which compresses the elastomer element when the mirror carrier is displaced from the first position into a second position... The elastomer element is radially compressed by the radially aligned projections and thus counteracts an adjustment about the axis of rotation with a force that can be determined
Implementation Method 2
The elastomer element or the elastomer elements are then held in bulges or between two projections, so that when the mirror carrier is displaced relative to the mirror base about the axis of rotation, the elastomer element moves relative to either the mirror base or the mirror carrier
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to an adjustable mirror, in particular to an outside mirror of a motor vehicle, with a hinge, which links a mirror support (3) to a mirror base (2) so that the mirror can be twisted about an axis of rotation. An elastomeric element (4) is arranged between the mirror base (2) and the mirror support (3) and is form-fitted or bonded to the mirror support (3) and/or to the mirror base (2) and holds the mirror support (3) in a first position. Compression elements (21) are arranged on the mirror support (3) and/or on the mirror base (2) and compress the elastomeric element (4) when the mirror support (3) is moved from a first position into a second position.