Motorcycle Mirror Quick Release Mounting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motorcycle mirrors are prone to theft and damage, and frequent removal and reattachment can damage the aluminum threads, requiring costly replacements, due to their threaded attachment system which is cumbersome and risky.
Innovation Solution
A quick release mounting system using a non-circular bore and shaft with retractable protrusions, allowing for tool-free, secure, and repeatable removal and reattachment of motorcycle mirrors without damaging the threads, utilizing a mechanism similar to quick release chucks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded studs and bores are used to attach motorcycle mirrors, then the mirrors can be securely mounted, but repeated threading and unthreading damages the aluminum threads
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into two separate components: a threaded stud that remains permanently installed in the aluminum mount, and a removable quick-release mechanism with a non-circular shaft and bore interface. This segmentation prevents repeated threading/unthreading of the vulnerable aluminum threads while still enabling easy mirror removal and reattachment through the non-circular interface.
Solution Approach 2:
A non-circular shaft and bore interface acts as an intermediary mechanism between the mirror stem and the mounted bracket. This intermediary provides both secure attachment (through the non-circular geometric lock) and easy release (through the quick-release lever or mechanism) without involving the aluminum threads in the repeated connection/disconnection cycles.
2Reliability
If mirrors are frequently removed and reattached using threaded studs, then theft risk is reduced, but the positioning adjustment becomes cumbersome requiring two wrenches
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system separates the mounting function (threaded stud in aluminum bracket) from the attachment/detachment function (quick-release mechanism with non-circular interface). This allows the mirror to be securely mounted for theft prevention while enabling tool-free or single-hand operation for removal and reattachment, eliminating the need for two-wrench positioning adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-circular shaft and bore interface is designed to self-align when the mirror is reattached to the bracket. The geometric constraint of the non-circular shapes automatically orients the mirror in the correct position without requiring manual adjustment with tools, allowing the user to simply snap the mirror back into place.
3Strength
If threaded studs are used for mirror attachment, then secure mounting is achieved, but the system is vulnerable to theft and requires tool-based removal
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the attachment function into a permanent threaded stud (providing secure mounting strength) and a removable quick-release component with non-circular interface (enabling tool-free removal). The threaded stud remains permanently installed in the aluminum bracket to maintain security, while the quick-release mechanism allows rapid attachment and detachment without tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-circular shaft and bore interface uses asymmetric geometry to prevent rotation and ensure proper orientation. This asymmetric design provides secure mechanical engagement that is easy to engage and disengage through the quick-release mechanism, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners while maintaining mounting security and enabling tool-free operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release mounting system for motorcycle mirrors and similar devices that may be attached directly or indirectly to a handlebar of a motorcycle or similar type vehicle is described. The system comprises as an assembly a first part that is attached to or unitarily formed as part of the stem of a motorcycle mirror. A second part is attached to the motorcycle, typically proximate the handlebar. By releasing a locking mechanism the first part can be separated from the second part to allow the mirror to be removed from the motorcycle. The first and second parts typically comprise a non-circular shank and a non circular bore in which the shank is lockably received.