Three-Piece Mirror Base Cover With Screwless Clip-Latch Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exterior rear view devices for vehicles face challenges in providing a base cover that simultaneously meets aesthetic and technical requirements, such as water drainage and secure attachment of electronic components, while avoiding the use of screws for assembly.
Innovation Solution
A base cover system comprising three cover pieces (lower base cover, base cover cap, and upper base cover) made from plastic, which are designed to releasably mantle the metal base frame using clip, snap, and/or latch connections, thereby providing a secure, watertight, and aesthetically pleasing solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw connections are used to attach the base cover to the base frame, then the attachment strength and reliability are improved, but the assembly complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base cover is divided into three separate cover pieces (first cover part, second cover part, and third cover part) that can be assembled in sections. Each cover piece has its own connection elements that engage with corresponding elements on the base frame, allowing for modular assembly without requiring screws throughout the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional screw-based mechanical fastening systems with a clip-and-latch mechanism. Connection elements on the cover pieces engage with corresponding engagement elements on the base frame through elastic deformation and geometric interlocking, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners while maintaining secure attachment.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single-piece base cover is used, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the adaptability and ease of assembly/disassembly are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The base cover is segmented into three separate cover pieces that can be manufactured independently and then assembled together. This segmentation allows each piece to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall manufacturing efficiency through standardized connection elements and processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection elements and engagement features are designed with universal characteristics that allow the same basic mechanism to be used across all three cover pieces and their interfaces with the base frame. This standardized approach maintains manufacturing simplicity while providing assembly flexibility.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the base cover is made from plastic material, then the corrosion resistance and aesthetic appearance are improved, but the structural strength is reduced compared to metal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs plastic material for the base cover pieces, utilizing the inherent properties of plastic to provide corrosion resistance and aesthetic appearance. The design compensates for lower material strength through optimized geometric features, including rib structures, connection element designs, and engagement mechanisms that distribute and manage mechanical loads effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic cover pieces incorporate localized structural features such as reinforced connection elements, strategically placed ribs, and optimized wall thicknesses in critical areas. This local quality enhancement provides necessary structural strength at specific locations while maintaining the overall plastic construction for corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure refers to a base cover of a base assembly of an exterior rear view device to be mounted to a vehicle and to moveably support a head assembly, comprising three cover pieces designed to releasably mantle the base frame by being attached via clip, snap and/or latch connections. It also refers to an exterior rear view device, comprising a base assembly with a base frame manteled with a base cover of the present disclosure, and to a vehicle with such an exterior rear view device. Further, the present disclosure refers to a method for assembling the base cover of the present disclosure as well as a method for dis-assembling the base cover of the present disclosure.