Rearview Mirror Bezel Integration for Sealed Multi-Function Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview devices have inefficiencies in space utilization and manufacturing costs due to separate modules for different functions, leading to exposed components and lost installation space during adjustment, which limits additional feature integration.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function rearview device with a bezel that houses light assemblies and electronic means, allowing for integrated functions like direction indicators, temperature indicators, and communication signals, while being sealed and adjustable as a unit to optimize space and reduce components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate modules are used for different functions (light sources, heaters, displays), then each function can be independently optimized, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate functional modules (light sources, heaters, displays, cameras) into an integrated rearview mirror assembly. The housing unifies these components, eliminating the need for separate mounting structures and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining all individual functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The rearview mirror housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, houses lighting elements for visibility, contains heating elements for defogging/defrosting, integrates display screens for information presentation, and accommodates cameras for blind spot detection. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed.
2Ease of operation
If the rearview element is made adjustable with actuators, then it can be positioned according to driver needs, but additional space is required between bezel and element exposing components to environment
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator and rearview element are nested within the sealed housing structure. The housing acts as a protective container that encloses both the adjustable element and the actuator mechanism, preventing environmental factors from reaching these components while still allowing the element to move through a controlled range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves as an intermediary barrier between the adjustable rearview element and the external environment. It provides a sealed interface that allows mechanical adjustment functionality while blocking environmental contaminants, moisture, and temperature extremes from reaching the internal components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are installed in the rearview device, then functional versatility is achieved, but installation space is lost and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components are merged into a single integrated housing structure. The light sources, heaters, displays, and cameras are all mounted within the same housing cavity, eliminating the need for separate mounting spaces and reducing the overall installation footprint while maintaining full functional versatility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances space utilization, protects components from environmental exposure, and reduces manufacturing costs by integrating multiple functions within a single, adjustable unit, providing enhanced functionality and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a first light assembly positioned within the interior space of the bezel and comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes
Implementation Method 2
mirror reflective elements with heater pad including electrically conductive traces
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention refers to a multi-function rearview device (100, 700, 900) adapted for use with a vehicle, comprising: a rearview element (120, 750, 950) comprising at least one of a reflective element, a camera and a display element; a bezel (130, 720, 920) formed at an outer portion of the multi-function rearview device (100, 700, 900) surrounding the rearview element (120, 750, 950), with an interior space being formed within the bezel (130. 720, 920); and at least one of one or more light assemblies (200, 610, 810) and one or more electronic means being positioned at least partly within the interior space of the bezel (130), wherein the rearview element (120, 750, 950) is attached to at least one of the bezel (130, 720, 920) and a housing (110) which is configured to be attached to the vehicle and to be moveable relative to the vehicle, characterized in that the bezel (130) is coated, wherein a coating of the bezel (130) is a spectrally controlling system.