Modular Rear View Mirror Snap-Fit Connector Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rear view mirror assemblies face issues with incorrect fastener installation and torque, leading to operational failures and safety concerns due to complex and unreliable connection methods.
Innovation Solution
A modular snap-fit connector system using retention latches with conical bearing surfaces and curved slots for easy assembly, providing structural rigidity and flexibility, allowing for standardized production and easy replacement of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded fasteners are used to connect mirror components, then structural strength is improved, but assembly complexity and reliability deteriorate due to incorrect installation and torque issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces threaded fasteners with a snap-fit mechanical connection system. The retention latch with cam surface engages with the mounting stud to create a secure connection without threads, eliminating installation errors and torque issues while maintaining structural strength through the cam locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention latch design allows the assembly process to self-regulate through the cam surface geometry. As the latch closes, the cam surface automatically guides the mounting stud into the correct position and provides tactile feedback when fully engaged, ensuring proper assembly without requiring external torque control or complex fastening procedures.
2Reliability
If multiple separate fasteners are used to connect mirror components, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single retention latch component. The latch integrates the mounting stud reception, positioning, and locking functions that previously required multiple separate fasteners, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining connection reliability through the unified cam-based locking mechanism.
3Strength
If threaded fasteners with proper torque are used, then connection strength is improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the threaded fastener system requiring torque application with a snap-fit retention latch that engages through simple insertion and closure. This eliminates the need for torque tools and multi-step fastening procedures, dramatically increasing assembly speed while maintaining connection strength through the cam surface locking action.
4Ease of operation
If snap-fit connectors with conical faces are used, then assembly ease is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to difficult-to-produce connector geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs conical and curved surfaces in the retention latch and mounting stud design. These curved geometries, while providing smooth engagement and easy assembly, can be efficiently manufactured using injection molding or other plastic forming processes, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture despite the non-linear surfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is related to a rear view mirror assembly with a least two parts out of the group of part as: mirror frame, mirror base, mirror housing, mirror bezel, mirror glass, mirror lighting means, actuator, that must be connected during assembly process with at least one retention latch. This retention latch comprises a circular hood and a rectangular arm formed in a first part and to be inserted into an opening and shifted along a slot in a second part.