Side View Mirror Stem With Concealed Fastener Catch
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing side view mirror attachment systems to support structures lack a secure and aesthetically pleasing method for connecting the mirror head to the support structure, often exposing fasteners and requiring complex installation processes.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece stem system with a first portion attached to the mirror head and a second portion attached to the support structure, featuring a catch and retention mechanism for secure alignment and concealed fasteners, allowing for easy installation and a slim, strong design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional single-piece stem is used to attach the mirror head to the support structure, then the attachment is secure, but the fasteners are exposed and the installation process is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is divided into two separate portions: a first portion that attaches to the mirror head and a second portion that attaches to the support structure. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized independently and simplifies the installation process by enabling modular assembly without exposing fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The first portion of the stem acts as an intermediary component between the mirror head and the second portion. It includes a catch mechanism that engages with the retention portion of the second portion, providing secure connection while concealing the fasteners and simplifying installation.
2Reliability
If traditional attachment methods are used, then the connection is secure, but visible fasteners compromise the aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The fasteners are extracted from the visible exterior of the attachment system. The first portion of the stem is designed to conceal the fasteners used to connect it to the mirror head, while the catch mechanism provides secure connection without exposing hardware, thereby maintaining aesthetic appearance.
3Shape
If a slim cross-section stem is used, then the aesthetic appearance is improved and cladding is eliminated, but the structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The stem portions are manufactured from metal materials that provide high strength-to-weight ratio, enabling a slim cross-section design while maintaining structural integrity. The metal construction eliminates the need for additional cladding while ensuring the stem can bear the required loads.
4Reliability
If a complex attachment system is used to ensure secure connection, then the reliability is improved, but the installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The catch mechanism is pre-configured on the first portion of the stem to automatically engage with the retention portion of the second portion during installation. This preliminary design of the engagement mechanism allows for quick and easy assembly without requiring complex alignment procedures or multiple installation steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A mirror assembly includes a stem attached to a mirror head. The stem includes a first portion directly attached to the mirror head. The first portion includes a catch. The second portion is attached to a support structure, and includes a retention portion. The catch of the first portion is engaged with the retention portion of the second portion for supporting the first portion and the mirror head relative to the second portion. Once the first portion is supported by the interaction between the catch and the retention portion, fasteners may be installed to fixedly attach the first portion to the second portion.