Modular Rearview Device with Interchangeable Head Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external rearview devices for vehicles either rely on conventional mirrors or camera systems, but not all global markets allow for camera side mirror replacements, limiting a universal technical solution for rearview systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular rearview device system that includes interchangeable head assemblies with either a reflective element, a camera unit, or both, allowing for a common base assembly to accommodate different configurations, including a locking system and pivot joint mechanism for easy attachment and detachment, and integration of additional features like camera connectors and functional modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a camera system is used for side mirrors, then rearview functionality can be provided, but not all global markets allow for camera side mirror replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The base assembly is designed with universal compatibility to accommodate multiple types of head assemblies (camera-based, mirror-based, or hybrid). The standardized mounting interface and electrical connector allow the same base to support different rearview technologies, enabling a single platform to serve multiple market requirements and regulatory environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The rearview device is divided into separable modules: a base assembly and interchangeable head assemblies. This segmentation allows customers to select different head assembly types (camera, mirror, or combination) while retaining a common base, facilitating market-specific adaptations without redesigning the entire system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with interchangeable head assemblies is implemented, then flexibility to adapt to various legal requirements is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base assembly serves as a universal platform that can accommodate different head assembly types through standardized interfaces. This multi-functionality allows the same base to support camera-based systems for markets permitting them, traditional mirrors for conservative markets, or hybrid configurations, thereby achieving legal adaptability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different head assemblies provide localized functional variations while sharing common base infrastructure. The customization is confined to the head assembly level (camera vs. mirror optics), while the base assembly maintains consistent structural and electrical characteristics, limiting the complexity increase to only the interchangeable portion rather than the entire system.
3Reliability
If conventional mirrors are used, then universal market acceptance is achieved, but vehicle size and weight cannot be minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables substitution of traditional mechanical mirror systems with lighter camera-based electronic rearview systems in markets that permit them. The modular design allows customers to choose camera units that replace heavy glass mirrors and mechanical adjustment mechanisms, thereby minimizing vehicle weight where legally acceptable while maintaining the option for conventional mirrors in other markets.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows parameter changes in rearview device configuration based on market requirements. In permissive markets, the parameters shift toward lighter camera-based solutions; in restrictive markets, the parameters favor heavier but more universally accepted mirror systems. This parameter flexibility enables weight minimization where possible while ensuring market acceptance reliability where required.
Data Source
AI summary
An external rearview device for a motor vehicle includes a base assembly provided for arrangement on the motor vehicle; a head assembly configured to be attached to the base assembly; rearview means including at least one of a camera unit and a reflective element secured within the head assembly, the head assembly configured to be detachable and selected from a set comprising a first head assembly with a first rearview means including at least one reflective element and a second head assembly with a second rearview means including at least one reflective element, and a camera unit configured to obtain a rearview image through the reflective element, and a third head assembly with a third rearview means including the camera unit.