Low Profile Mirror Pivot With Orthogonal Axes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview mirror assemblies are bulky and difficult to adjust, lacking a sleek profile and efficient dual-axis rotation mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A rearview assembly with a mount configured for vehicle coupling, featuring a first support defining a first axis of rotation, a second support defining a second orthogonal axis, a brace, and a spring clip providing clamping force, allowing the housing to rotate about both axes, thereby supporting an electro-optic device and enabling easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional pivot assembly is used for rearview mirror mounting, then the structure provides stable rotation support, but the assembly becomes bulky and difficult to adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot assembly is divided into separate functional components: a first support member for vertical rotation (first axis) and a second support member for horizontal rotation (second axis). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall bulk while maintaining full adjustability functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The second support member is positioned within or alongside the first support member, creating a nested configuration. The spring clip mechanism is integrated within the support structure, allowing multiple functional elements to occupy reduced spatial footprint while maintaining their rotation capabilities.
2Reliability
If a robust pivot mechanism is used for stable mounting, then the structure provides reliable rotation support, but the profile becomes high and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation mechanisms are oriented along orthogonal axes (first axis vertical, second axis horizontal), allowing the pivot assembly to achieve stable multi-directional rotation while maintaining a low vertical profile. The functional complexity is resolved in the horizontal plane rather than increasing vertical height.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clip functions as a flexible elastic element that provides mounting stability through controlled deflection rather than rigid structural bulk. This flexible mechanism achieves reliable rotation support with minimal profile height compared to traditional rigid pivot assemblies.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional mounting mechanisms are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation and removal become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spring clip utilizes elastic recovery to automatically apply clamping force to the second support member upon installation. The mechanism is self-actuating through spring deflection, eliminating the need for separate fastening operations or tools, thereby simplifying installation and removal while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clip's elastic properties allow it to dynamically adjust clamping force based on installation conditions. The force parameter is controlled through spring geometry and material selection, providing sufficient holding force during operation while allowing easy release when installation or removal is intended.
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 lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, and robust rearview assembly with optimal performance, eliminating system lash and allowing for easy adjustment and secure mounting, replacing traditional bulky pivot assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
A spring clip extends around and is in abutting contact with the second support
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~4A
AI summary
A rearview assembly includes a mount configured to be operably coupled with a vehicle. A first support includes a generally linear body and extends downward from the mount. The first support defines a first axis of rotation. A second support defines a second axis of rotation and extends from a side of the first support in a direction generally orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the first support. A brace is coupled with the second support and extends below the second support. A spring clip extends around and is in abutting contact with the second support. A housing is operably coupled with the second support. The housing is rotatable about both the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation.