Vehicle Mirror Assembly Retention Clip for Theft Deterrence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mirror assemblies in vehicles face theft issues due to anti-theft measures that compromise visibility or rely on unreliable adhesive fixation.
Innovation Solution
A mirror assembly with a support bracket, actuator assembly, and retention clip that mechanically secures the mirror glass, using a retention clip and actuator assembly to inhibit separation and deter theft without affecting visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If adhesive fixation is used to secure the mirror glass, then installation is simplified, but reliability deteriorates due to variations in materials of construction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the adhesive (chemical) fixation system with a mechanical retention clip system. The retention clip engages with the bracket clip and actuator assembly through mechanical interlocking features, eliminating dependence on adhesive bonding variables such as material composition, surface preparation, and curing conditions. This mechanical substitution provides reliable fixation while maintaining ease of installation through simple clip engagement.
2Reliability
If anti-theft measures are implemented on the mirror glass, then theft deterrence is improved, but visibility deteriorates due to intrusion on the mirror glass
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the anti-theft function from the mirror glass itself and relocates it to the mechanical connection interface between the support bracket and actuator assembly. The retention clip and bracket clip form a mechanical locking system that prevents mirror glass removal without adding any visual obstructions to the mirror surface. This extraction allows theft deterrence to be achieved independently of the mirror glass, preserving full visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a retention clip as an intermediary component that provides anti-theft protection without contacting the mirror glass. The retention clip mediates between the support bracket and actuator assembly, creating a mechanical barrier to theft while leaving the mirror glass completely unobstructed. This intermediary approach allows the anti-theft function to be implemented in the mechanical connection zone rather than on the visible mirror surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A mirror assembly for a vehicle is disclosed that includes: a support bracket that includes a bracket clip; a mirror glass that is connected to the support bracket; an actuator assembly that includes a retainer and which is configured for engagement with the bracket clip such that movement of the actuator assembly causes corresponding movement of the support bracket and the mirror glass; and a retention clip that is configured for positioning about the retainer and the bracket clip to inhibit separation of the support bracket and the actuator assembly and thereby deter theft of the mirror glass.