Fold Rear-View Mirror Assembly Retaining Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fold rear-view mirror assemblies face challenges in easily assembling and disassembling while maintaining efficient spring compression, as previous solutions require complex mechanisms to secure the stop member on the shaft.
Innovation Solution
A retaining mechanism with a flexible retaining element clamped in a locking member is used, allowing easy assembly and disassembly by sliding onto a sloped surface and being locked into a recess, utilizing a compression spring for axial retention and expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a push nut with elastic portions is used as a stop member, then the spring compression function is performed, but an opening preventing portion is required on the shaft which complicates the assembly structure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the stop function from the shaft by using a separate stop member that can be independently installed and removed. The stop member with elastic portions is detached from the shaft structure, eliminating the need for complex opening preventing portions on the shaft while maintaining the spring compression function.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop function is segmented into a separate stop member component rather than being integrated into the shaft. This allows the stop member to be independently designed, installed, and removed, simplifying the overall assembly structure while maintaining functional reliability.
2Reliability
If a resin stopper with engaging nails is used, then the stop function is achieved, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes complex requiring precise engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The stop member utilizes elastic deformation dynamics to enable easy assembly and disassembly. The elastic portions can be temporarily deformed to release from the shaft and automatically return to their original shape to engage with the shaft, providing a simple snap-fit operation without complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic portions of the stop member provide self-engagement and self-locking functionality. When the stop member is installed, the elastic portions automatically deform to engage with the shaft and then return to their original shape to secure the position, eliminating the need for complex engagement mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a spring clip with inner retaining tab is used, then the stop function is provided, but a bracing member is required between the spring and spring clip which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the bracing member by directly engaging the stop member with the shaft through elastic portions. The stop function is extracted from the complex spring clip-bracing member assembly and implemented through a simpler stop member that directly interfaces with the shaft and spring.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop member combines multiple functions into a single component: it provides the stop function, engages with the shaft through elastic portions, and retains the spring. This merging eliminates the need for separate bracing members and simplifies the overall assembly structure.
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 flexible retaining element can be easily removed and reattached with minimal force, simplifying the assembly and disassembly process while maintaining effective spring compression, allowing for efficient operation and pre-assembly in a production line.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element, such as for example a compression spring, arranged such that a force is applied on both the base member and the mirror housing
Implementation Method 2
The flexible retaining element can be easily removed and reattached with minimal force
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A fold rear-view mirror assembly（100）for motor vehicles is disclosed. It comprises a base member (120) to be mounted on a motor vehicle, a mirror housing (110), a shaft (140) for rotation of the mirror housing (110) to the base member (120) between operative and folded conditions, an elastic element (160) associated with the shaft (140) for applying a force on the base member (120) and the mirror housing (110), and a retaining mechanism (200) comprising a locking member (260) carrying a retaining element (250) clamped therein such that it can be moved to the locking member (260) between a release position where it can be moved to the shaft (140), and a lock position where it is received in a shaft recess (142) causing the retaining element (250) to be locked to the shaft (140) so that the elastic element (160) is axially retained against the locking member (260).