Exterior Rearview Mirror Power Extending Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exterior rearview mirror assemblies for vehicles lack a reliable and efficient mechanism for extending and retracting the mirror head, particularly for applications like trailer towing, where enhanced rearward viewing is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A motor-driven actuator with a rack and pinion mechanism is integrated into the mirror assembly, allowing the mirror head to move between retracted and extended positions via a support structure with a toothed track, enabling translational movement and manual override through a clutch system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a motor-driven actuator with rack and pinion mechanism is integrated into the mirror assembly, then the reliability and efficiency of extending and retracting the mirror head is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the motor, actuator, and rack-and-pinion mechanism into a single integrated actuator assembly that is mounted at the outboard end of the support structure. This merging of components into one unified mechanism improves reliability by reducing the number of separate moving parts and connection points, while the compact integration minimizes the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The toothed rack acts as an intermediary element between the rotational motion of the pinion gear and the linear motion required to extend or retract the mirror head. This intermediary mechanism efficiently converts motor rotation into precise linear displacement, improving the reliability of the extension/retraction function while maintaining a mechanically simple design.
2Ease of operation
If the actuator is disposed at the outboard end of the support structure, then the ease of operation is improved, but the weight of the moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror assembly is equipped with a motor-driven actuator that automatically performs the extension and retraction function when activated. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual operation, improving ease of operation by allowing the driver to simply press a button or switch, while the automated system handles the mechanical work of moving the mirror head.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an electric motor-driven system. The motor substitutes for human hand or arm effort, converting electrical energy into mechanical motion to extend and retract the mirror head. This substitution dramatically improves ease of operation, and the motor's compact design minimizes the added weight.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a clutch system is included for manual override, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator assembly is designed with dual functionality: it can operate automatically via the motor-driven rack and pinion mechanism, or it can be manually overridden through the clutch system. This multi-functionality allows the same mechanism to adapt to different operational needs—automated operation during normal use and manual operation when necessary—improving versatility without requiring separate systems for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch mechanism dynamically engages or disengages the motor from the rack-and-pinion drive train based on operational needs. When manual override is required, the clutch disconnects the motor, allowing direct manual manipulation of the rack. This dynamic switching capability provides adaptability between automated and manual modes while using a relatively simple clutch design that adds minimal complexity.
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 reliable and efficient mechanism for extending and retracting the mirror head, enhancing rearward visibility for drivers, particularly in towing applications, while allowing for manual operation and positive feedback through detent positions.
Implementation Method 1
The motor, when actuated, rotates the output gear, which is engaged with a toothed track of the mirror head bracket of the mirror head, to impart translational lateral movement of the mirror head
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicular exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror head having a mirror casing and a mirror reflective element, a support structure configured for attachment at a side of a vehicle, with the mirror head adjustably mounted at the support structure. The support structure extends laterally from the side of the vehicle. An adjustment mechanism is disposed at the end of the support structure. The adjustment mechanism is movably received at the mirror head and includes a rotatably driven gear that engages a toothed track of a mirror head bracket. Rotation of the gear causes translational movement of the mirror head bracket and the mirror head relative to the support structure to adjust the mirror head position relative to the support structure between a retracted position and an extended position.