Rearview Mirror Bezel Coating for Integrated Signal Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rearview mirror assemblies have inefficient space utilization, leading to additional components being exposed to environmental conditions and increased manufacturing costs due to separate modules for different functions, and they lack the ability to integrate additional functions and elements effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function rearview device with a bezel that surrounds the rearview element, featuring a plastic substrate with a chromium-based coating, allowing for integrated light assemblies that provide various functions such as direction indicators, blind spot indicators, and other signals, while being sealed to protect against environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate modules are used for different functions in rearview mirror assemblies, then each function can be independently implemented, but manufacturing costs increase and space utilization becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional modules (light assemblies for direction indicators, blind spot indicators, and other signals) into a single integrated bezel structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate modules, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while improving space utilization within the rearview mirror assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The bezel is designed as a multi-functional component that houses various light assemblies for different functions (direction indicators, blind spot indicators, signals). This universal structure allows a single component to perform multiple functions, reducing the overall number of parts and simplifying manufacturing processes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional components are added to rearview mirror assemblies, then more functions can be provided, but space utilization becomes inefficient and components are exposed to environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The light assemblies are nested within the bezel structure, which acts as a protective housing. This nesting arrangement allows multiple functional components to be contained within a single protective enclosure, improving space utilization and protecting the components from environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and temperature variations.
3Strength
If a chromium-based coating is applied to the plastic substrate, then aesthetic appearance and durability are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure consisting of a plastic substrate with a chromium-based coating. This composite material combines the durability and aesthetic properties of chromium with the ease of molding and cost-effectiveness of plastic, creating a bezel that is both durable and manufacturable through established coating processes.
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 enhances space utilization, integrates multiple functions within the rearview device, reduces manufacturing costs, and provides a sealed, protected environment for components, enabling the display of important information to the driver while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
a plastic substrate with a chromium-based coating
Implementation Method 2
a plastic substrate with a chromium-based coating
Data Source
AI summary
An internal multi-function rearview device for use with a vehicle includes a rearview element comprising at least one of a reflective element, a camera, or a display element; a housing configured to be attached to the vehicle and configured to be moveable relative to the vehicle; a bezel configured to be affixed to an opening defined by the housing and configured to surround the rearview element; and a foot configured to be fixed to the vehicle and relative to which the housing and bezel is moveable. The bezel is coated and a coating of the bezel is at least one of a decorative coating, an advanced surface technology, or a spectrally controlling system, and the rearview element is coupled to at least one of the bezel or the housing.