Rear View Mirror Snap-Fit Connection Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rear view mirror assemblies require multiple threaded fasteners for connection, which can be incorrectly installed or loosened over time, leading to operational failures and safety issues due to the complexity of assembly.
Innovation Solution
A snap-fit connection system with integrated screw holes that replaces multiple mounting studs, allowing for a simplified assembly process using a single screw solution, enhancing reliability and reducing production costs by integrating snap-fit connectors and screw holes into the mirror housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple threaded fasteners are used to connect mirror components, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the assembly complexity increases and the risk of incorrect installation or loosening over time worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate mounting studs into a single integrated snap-fit connector that incorporates multiple mounting apertures. This merging reduces the number of individual fasteners from multiple threaded fasteners to one unified component, simplifying assembly while maintaining connection strength through the distributed aperture design.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, enables snap-fit attachment, and incorporates multiple mounting apertures for secure fastening. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate mounting studs and fasteners, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple mounting studs with circular bodies are used, then the components are fixed rigidly without pivoting, but the number of molding pistons and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate mounting studs into a single molded connector component. Instead of requiring multiple independent molding operations with separate pistons for each circular mounting stud, the design integrates all mounting apertures into one connector that can be molded as a single piece, reducing the number of molding pistons required and lowering production costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates multiple mounting apertures arranged in a pattern that provides rigid fixation. By segmenting the mounting function into multiple apertures within a single connector rather than using multiple separate studs, the design maintains rigid fixation capability while simplifying the molding process.
3Strength
If separate fasteners are used for assembly, then the mirror components can be securely connected, but the assembly time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single snap-fit connector that can be installed in one operation. Instead of requiring assemblers to handle and install multiple separate threaded fasteners, the unified connector with integrated mounting apertures allows for single-step attachment, significantly improving assembly efficiency while maintaining connection reliability through the multi-aperture design.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is related to an external rear view mirror assembly comprising a connection mean that fits mirror components as a support frame mounted to a mirror housing or shell. More especially the invention is related to method to assemble a rear view mirror in a few steps.