Rear View Device Locking Ring with Detent Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing locking mechanisms in rear view devices suffer from frictional wear, leading to instability and potential accidental movement of the mirror head, as the detents degrade over time, causing uneven wear and increased risk of unwanted unlocking due to vibrations.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates locking rings with radially distributed primary and secondary detents, where the secondary detents are elevated or recessed, providing a V-shaped profile to distribute unlocking forces symmetrically and reduce wear, along with a shallower locking position for reduced wear during unlocking, and a specific arrangement of locking elements to stabilize the mirror head in its operational position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms with detents are used in rear view devices, then the mirror head can be locked in position, but frictional wear occurs over time leading to instability and potential accidental movement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple detents (typically 3-6) distributed around the locking ring, so that the total locking force is distributed across multiple contact points. This segmentation reduces the wear burden on each individual detent while maintaining overall locking reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The detents are designed with specific geometric profiles (angular or curved surfaces) at their contact points to optimize force distribution. The local geometry is engineered to minimize friction and wear during the locking and unlocking cycles, extending the service life of the mechanism.
2Reliability
If multiple detents are used to improve locking stability, then unlocking force distribution improves, but the complexity of the locking ring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring serves multiple functions: it provides the locking interface, distributes unlocking forces through multiple detents, and can be integrated with the pivot axis assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity despite the presence of multiple detents.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring is often integrated with or nested around the pivot axis assembly, combining multiple functional elements into a compact structure. The detents are formed as part of the locking ring geometry rather than as separate components, reducing overall structural complexity.
3Strength
If detents are made deeper to prevent accidental unlocking, then locking strength increases, but frictional wear and risk of unwanted unlocking due to vibrations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detents are designed with preliminary geometric features (such as engagement angles and surface profiles) that ensure proper alignment and gradual engagement during the locking process. This preliminary design ensures that the locking force is applied optimally, providing sufficient strength while minimizing sudden impacts that could lead to vibration-induced unlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact surfaces of the detents are designed with curved or angular profiles rather than sharp edges. This curvature distributes the locking force more evenly and reduces stress concentrations that could lead to wear and vibration-sensitive unlocking. The curved surfaces also facilitate smoother engagement and disengagement.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking ring with a center axis for a rear view device includes one or more primary detents, a first set of secondary detents positioned on the one or more primary detents, and a second set of secondary detents arranged around the locking ring. A rear view device including the locking ring and a motor vehicle including the rearview device and the locking are also described.