Low-Profile Mirror Pivot Joint With Detent Stop Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large commercial vehicle mirror assemblies suffer from wear and tear due to road vibrations, and their bulkiness leads to undesirable aerodynamic properties and fuel economy reduction, with a lack of effective stop mechanisms to prevent unwanted rotation.
Innovation Solution
A low profile pivoting detent joint with a carrier base, lateral base extension, and interlocking tooth rings, along with a leaf spring mechanism and stop block system, to securely hold the mirror assembly in position and prevent over-rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If large coil springs are used to provide detent function, then the necessary basing force is provided, but the mirror assembly becomes larger and bulkier
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the coil spring inside a hollow cylindrical detent member, nesting the spring within the detent structure. This allows the spring to provide the necessary basing force while the overall assembly maintains a compact size, as the spring occupies the internal cavity of the detent member rather than requiring additional external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional external spring arrangement to an internal spring configuration by utilizing the hollow interior of the detent member. This dimensional reorganization places the spring in the radial dimension within the cylindrical cavity, reducing the overall volume footprint of the detent assembly while maintaining the required force output.
2Reliability
If larger mirror assemblies are used, then the detent function is maintained, but wear and tear increases due to road vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pivoting detent member that can rotate between engaged and disengaged positions, allowing dynamic adjustment to absorption of vibrational forces. The detent member pivots on a pin axis, enabling it to dynamically respond to road vibrations while maintaining the detent function, rather than relying on a static rigid connection that would be more susceptible to wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil spring provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining constant pressure between the detent member and support arm, creating a cushioned connection that absorbs vibrational forces before they can cause wear. The spring's elastic properties allow it to preemptively cushion against the harmful effects of road vibrations.
3Force
If larger mirror assemblies are used, then the detent compression is sufficient, but aerodynamic properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The coil spring is nested within the hollow detent member, creating a compact integrated assembly that reduces the overall size of the mirror support structure. This nested configuration maintains sufficient detent compression force while minimizing the external dimensions that would create aerodynamic drag.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial parameters of the spring arrangement by moving it from an external to an internal position, reducing the overall envelope dimensions of the mirror assembly. This parameter change allows the assembly to maintain the required force output while presenting a more aerodynamic profile to reduce drag.
4Device complexity
If no stop mechanism is provided, then the structure is simpler, but unwanted rotation and damage can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The stop mechanism is merged with the existing detent assembly structure. The stop member is integrated into the detent assembly, utilizing the same pivot axis and structural elements, rather than being a separate independent component. This merging provides rotation prevention while minimizing additional structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop mechanism utilizes the existing spring pressure and detent member geometry to provide automatic rotation limits. The spring's biasing force and the geometric relationship between the stop member and detent member create self-regulating limits on rotation without requiring external control systems or complex additional mechanisms.
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 smaller, lighter, and more aerodynamic mirror assembly with improved durability and safety by reducing wear and tear, while maintaining effective detent compression and preventing unwanted rotation.
Implementation Method 1
a leaf spring carried in the hollow base interior channel engaging a connector head of the connecting bolt so that the leaf spring biases against an interior wall of the hollow base interior channel to draw the connecting bolt into the hollow base interior channel
Data Source
AI summary
A carrier base with a lateral base extension having a base hollow interior channel. A tooth ring on the lateral base extension. A stop block channel within the base tooth ring. A support arm pivotally carried on the lateral base extension for carrying a mirror head. A tooth ring included on the support arm engaging the base tooth ring in interlocking cooperation. A stop block carried by the support arm within the support arm tooth ring so that the stop block travels between a first end wall and a second end wall to control movement of the support arm. A connecting bolt carried by the support arm extending through the tooth rings into the hollow base interior channel. A leaf spring biasing the connecting bolt into the hollow base interior channel to draw the support arm against the lateral base extension.