Rear Vision Device Bezel Hinge Assembly for Serviceable Mirror
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rear vision device assemblies for motor vehicles are difficult to assemble and disassemble, which hampers serviceability and requires specialized tools, potentially damaging components during maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A hinge connection between the bezel assembly and a cradle, combined with snap, latch, and clip connections, allows for rotational attachment and detachment of the bezel assembly to the casing elements, enabling easy assembly and disassembly without damaging reflective elements, and providing access for internal service without specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional rigid connections are used to attach the bezel assembly to the casing elements, then structural stability is improved, but assembly and disassembly difficulty increases and requires specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple independent connection elements (latches, clips, hinges) distributed at different locations on the bezel assembly and casing elements. This allows the assembly to be stabilized by multiple discrete connection points while enabling step-by-step disassembly by releasing each connection element sequentially, eliminating the need for specialized tools.
2Reliability
If multiple connection elements are used to secure the bezel assembly, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connection functions (latching, clipping, hinging) are merged into an integrated connection system where the bezel assembly and casing elements incorporate complementary connection elements that work together. This provides reliable multi-point securing while maintaining manageable complexity through coordinated design of the connection interfaces.
3Strength
If permanent attachment methods are used, then structural integrity is improved, but serviceability deteriorates and component damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from permanent static attachment to dynamic reversible connection. The latches, clips, and hinges are designed to provide strong structural integrity during normal operation while allowing controlled disengagement for service and repair, enabling the assembly to be securely attached yet easily detached without component damage.
4Ease of operation
If simple connection methods are used, then assembly ease is improved, but connection strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection elements are designed to be self-securing through their inherent mechanical properties. Latches automatically engage and lock, clips snap into place with elastic deformation, and hinges provide friction-based holding. This provides strong connections through simple manual assembly operations without requiring additional fastening steps or specialized tools.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The present invention relates to an assembly, in particular comprising a head assembly (70, 70'), for an external rear vision device to be attached to a motor vehicle, said assembly comprising a lower casing element (20, 20', 20", 910), an upper casing element (60, 60'), an articulation assembly (30, 30', 30") and a bezel assembly (50, 50', 50", 801) for carrying at least one rear vision element, characterized by a hinge connection between the bezel assembly (50, 50', 50", 801) and a first sub assembly (10, 10") provided by at least the lower casing (20, 20', 20", 910), the articulation assembly (30, 30', 30") and attachment means (40, 40', 40").