Modular Mirror Chassis Layout for Variable Sizes With Fewer Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for designing mirror chassis are inefficient, resulting in a large number of parts needed to accommodate various mirror sizes, which is costly and time-consuming, leading to high manufacturing expenses and resource expenditure.
Innovation Solution
A modular design approach where the length of the channel elements is determined by the length of light elements, allowing for the construction of different sized mirror chassis using a minimal set of parts, with channel elements being coupled together to achieve the required length, and incorporating light elements and accessories such as knockout panels for illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional design methods starting with mirror platform dimensions are used, then mirrors can be designed to suit various uses, but a large number of parts result which are expensive to make and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis is divided into modular channel elements that can be assembled in different configurations. Each channel element is a standardized component that can be combined to create various mirror sizes, eliminating the need for custom parts for each mirror dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
A single set of standardized channel elements serves multiple functions by being configurable for different mirror sizes and arrangements. The same basic components can create various mirror platform dimensions, making the parts universal across different mirror applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional design methods starting with mirror platform dimensions are used, then mirrors can be designed to suit various uses, but significant engineering and manufacturing resources are expended
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis is divided into modular channel elements that can be assembled in different configurations. Each channel element is a standardized component that can be combined to create various mirror sizes, eliminating the need for custom parts for each mirror dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
A single set of standardized channel elements serves multiple functions by being configurable for different mirror sizes and arrangements. The same basic components can create various mirror platform dimensions, making the parts universal across different mirror applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional design methods starting with mirror platform dimensions are used, then mirrors can be designed to suit various uses, but the design process is time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The channel elements are pre-designed as standardized components with fixed dimensions and connection points. This preliminary design work is done once, and then the same components can be quickly assembled into different mirror configurations without requiring new design work for each size.
Solution Approach 2:
A single set of standardized channel elements serves multiple functions by being configurable for different mirror sizes and arrangements. The same basic components can create various mirror platform dimensions, making the parts universal across different mirror applications.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a first channel element; the first channel element has a first end and a second end and a length; and a first light element. The first light element has a length. A length of the first channel element is established using the length of the first light element. The first channel element further includes a coupleable area. The coupleable area permits the first channel element to be coupled to a second channel element, wherein the mirror chassis is formed thereby. A method to establish a set of channel element lengths for a mirror chassis includes selecting a set of light element lengths and then determining a channel element length from each light element length. The channel element length is selected to permit mounting a light element associated therewith.