Vehicle Rear-View Mirror Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rear-view mirror assemblies for vehicles are difficult to disassemble and replace due to restricted visibility and the need for significant manual effort, making it challenging for operators to securely remove and mount the mirror plate without damaging it, especially in heavy-duty vehicles where maintenance is performed at elevated heights.
Innovation Solution
A rear-view mirror assembly with a release mechanism featuring a deformable wire and clip system that allows easy gripping and disengagement, enabling the mirror to be removed with less force and improved visibility, including a strap and tab configuration for easier access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tight fit is used for attachment elements to securely hold the mirror plate, then the mirror plate is held securely and does not fall out, but a significant force is required to pull the mirror plate away
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into a deformable element on the mirror plate and a separate attachment element on the support plate. The deformable element includes engagement portions that can be independently deformed to engage or disengage from the attachment element, allowing secure retention during normal use while enabling easy release when force is applied to the release mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the deformable element is changed from a closed configuration (engaged) to an open configuration (disengaged) through application of force to the release mechanism. This parameter change allows the attachment strength to be dynamically adjusted - strong during normal operation but easily reversible when release is initiated.
2Device complexity
If manual effort and dexterity are required to disassemble the mirror plate, then the attachment mechanism can be simple, but the operator needs significant skill and manual effort to remove and replace the mirror plate
Solution Approach 1:
A release mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operator and the attachment elements. The release mechanism includes a release element that, when actuated, applies force to the deformable element to change its configuration from closed to open. This intermediary simplifies the operation by providing a leveraged mechanical advantage, allowing easy release without requiring the operator to directly manipulate the tight-fitting attachment elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable element automatically engages with the attachment element when the mirror plate is mounted, and automatically disengages when the release mechanism is actuated. The system serves itself by using the deformable element's inherent elasticity to both secure the mirror plate and enable its release, without requiring complex locking mechanisms or multiple components.
3Device complexity
If the operator must work blindly relying on touch and feel due to restricted visibility, then the attachment mechanism can be simple, but the operator cannot see the interface between the mirror plate and housing
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is extracted from the hidden interior space and positioned on the exterior surface of the mirror plate. The release element extends from the engagement area between the mirror plate and support plate to an accessible location on the mirror plate's outer surface. This allows the operator to see and access the release mechanism without needing to reach into the housing or work blindly, while the actual attachment elements remain concealed in their functional position.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a moveable support plate is used to allow angular adjustment of the mirror plate, then the mirror plate orientation can be adjusted to suit driver requirements, but aligning and mounting the mirror plate onto a moveable target presents difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable element is pre-configured on the mirror plate with engagement portions positioned to automatically align with the attachment element on the support plate. When the mirror plate is brought near the housing, the deformable element's geometry guides it into the correct angular position, and the engagement portions snap into place with the attachment element, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment with the moveable support plate.
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 simplifies the process of removing and replacing the mirror plate by providing a secure yet easy-to-disengage attachment mechanism, reducing the risk of damage and operator strain, and facilitating maintenance even in elevated positions.
Implementation Method 1
a first part having a deformable element which is deformable between (i) an open configuration and (ii) a closed configuration
Data Source
Figure 1~2a
Figure 2b
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The rear-view mirror assembly comprises: a housing (110); a mirror plate (120, 220, 320, 420) having a front rear-view mirrored surface (122) and a back surface (124, 224, 324, 424); a support arrangement positioned in a recess (112) of the housing (110) and provided with attachment means having a first part and a complementary second part, the first part of attachment means configured to releasably engage the second part of attachment means provided on the mirror plate rear view surface (122) for attaching the mirror plate to the housing, a release mechanism (140, 240, 340, 440) having a gripping element attached to the mirror plate back surface (124) extending to or beyond one side edge of the mirror plate (120) configured such that, in use, a force applied to the gripping means disengages the first part of attachment means from the second part of attachment means releasing the mirror (120) plate from the support arrangement.