Vehicle Mirror Mounting Assembly with Ball Pivot Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview mirror assemblies for vehicles lack a mounting configuration that allows for easy adjustment of the rearward field of view, often requiring complex assembly processes and limited component integration, which can lead to increased component count and manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A rearview mirror assembly with a mounting configuration featuring a ball pivot joint and a mirror mounting element that is unitarily formed with the bezel, allowing for pivotal adjustment of the mirror head about a ball pivot joint, reducing the number of components and enhancing assembly efficiency through a snap-together or twist-lock connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex mounting configuration is used to allow adjustment of the rearward field of view, then the adjustability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting element is unitarily formed with the bezel, combining two previously separate components into one integrated part. This reduces the number of components and simplifies the mounting configuration while maintaining the adjustment functionality through the integrated ball pivot joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting element serves multiple functions: it provides structural support as part of the bezel, enables pivotal adjustment through the ball pivot joint, and facilitates easy attachment/detachment of the mirror head. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms.
2Strength
If traditional mounting configurations are used, then the structural support is maintained, but the assembly process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By unitarily forming the mounting element with the bezel, the patent eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets or attachment mechanisms, thereby simplifying the assembly process and reducing assembly time while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting element is pre-integrated into the bezel during manufacturing, so that no additional assembly steps are required during installation. The mirror head can be directly attached to the pre-formed mounting element, streamlining the assembly process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple separate components are used in the mounting assembly, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mounting element and bezel into a single unitarily formed component, reducing the total number of parts in the assembly. This integration maintains structural integrity because the mounting element is formed as an inherent part of the bezel structure rather than as a separate attachment.
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 provides a simplified and efficient adjustment mechanism for the rearward field of view while reducing the number of components and improving assembly processes, allowing for direct transfer of adjustment force and integration of the ball member with the attachment plate, enhancing manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A mirror mounting element of the mounting assembly is pivotally attached at an end of the mounting structure to establish a mirror ball pivot joint
Implementation Method 2
The attaching portion of the mirror mounting element is configured to attach to the receiving portion via a snap together connection or twist lock connection or bayonet connection or the like
Data Source
AI summary
An interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror head and a mounting assembly for adjustably mounting the mirror head at an interior portion of a vehicle. The mounting assembly includes a mounting structure that is attachable to an interior portion of the vehicle and includes a mirror mounting element pivotally attached at an end of the mounting structure to establish a mirror ball pivot joint. The attaching portion of the mirror mounting element is configured to attach to a receiving portion of the mirror head via a snap connection and/or a twist connection. The attaching portion of the mirror mounting element, when the mirror mounting element is attached at the end of the mounting structure, is attachable to the receiving portion of the mirror head from a position rearward of the mirror casing and from exterior the mirror casing to attach the mirror head at the mounting structure.