Light Emitting Mirror Bezel for Integrated Vehicle Rearview
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview devices for vehicles have inefficiencies in space utilization and manufacturing costs due to separate modules for different functions, leading to exposed electronics and lost installation space when adjusting the rearview element.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function rearview device with a bezel that houses light assemblies and electronic means, allowing for integrated functions like direction indicators, camera, and display elements, and is sealed to protect against environmental conditions, enabling additional components to be installed within the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate modules are used for different functions (direction indicator, camera, display), then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional modules (direction indicator, camera, display elements, lighting assemblies) into a single integrated bezel structure. This merging approach maintains functional versatility while reducing device complexity by eliminating separate housing structures and simplifying assembly processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The bezel is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions simultaneously: structural support, housing for electronic modules, light guide for illumination, and mounting surface for the rearview element. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated structures for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate modules are used for different functions, then functional versatility is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple functional modules into a single bezel component, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, stored, and assembled. This consolidation lowers manufacturing costs through economies of scale and simplified production processes while maintaining all required functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal bezel design allows a single component to fulfill multiple roles, reducing the bill of materials and manufacturing complexity. Instead of producing separate housings for each function, one multi-functional bezel serves all purposes, directly reducing manufacturing costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the rearview element is made moveable for adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but space utilization is reduced due to exposed electronics and lost installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the electronic modules (direction indicator, camera, display) within the hollow interior space of the bezel structure. This nesting arrangement allows the rearview element to be moveable for adjustment while the electronics are compactly housed within the bezel, maximizing space utilization and eliminating exposed electronics.
Data Source
AI summary
A rearview device including a housing, a bezel and a rearview element used for vehicles. In one embodiment the bezel includes a transparent or chrome-based coating as to allow one or more lighting assemblies positioned in or beneath the bezel to illuminate the surrounding and provide different functions to the driver or other persons. For example, different indicator functions can be provided. Different electronic means may be placed in or beneath the bezel to optimize the used space inside the rearview device.