Rearview Cover Fastening with Pivot Locks for Quick Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview mirror systems face challenges with the time-consuming and inconvenient replacement of damaged outer covers, which can lead to reduced aerodynamics and increased fuel consumption, and existing fastening methods may result in lost or damaged fasteners and degradation of snap-in elements.
Innovation Solution
A rearview device with a detachable cover using a fastening arrangement featuring a first and second locking element, where the locking elements are pivotally mounted with a fulcrum, allowing for easy detachment and reattachment of the cover by applying a force, providing secure retention and facilitating servicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fasteners are used to attach the cover, then the cover can be removed and replaced, but the process is time-consuming and fasteners may be lost or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fastening function from separate fasteners and integrates it into the locking elements that are permanently attached to the housing. The locking elements themselves perform both the retention and release functions, eliminating the need for separate removable fasteners that can be lost or damaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to be manually actuatable, allowing the user to directly engage and disengage the cover without requiring separate fastening tools or components. The system serves itself through the inherent mechanical advantage of the locking element design.
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used for cover attachment, then secure retention is achieved, but packaging space and access clearance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening functions into integrated locking elements that are part of the housing structure. Instead of having separate fasteners distributed around the cover, the locking elements combine retention, release, and structural support functions in unified components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements serve multiple functions: they provide secure retention when engaged, allow for easy release when actuated, and are integrated into the housing structure to provide structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tangs or tabs are used to clip the cover into the housing, then different parts can be secured in the same housing, but removal is not convenient and tang strength degrades during multiple exchanges
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are designed with movable components that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The actuation mechanism allows the locking elements to dynamically change their engagement state, making cover removal and reattachment convenient while maintaining secure retention during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism changes the engagement parameter from a permanent rigid connection (like welded tabs) to a controllable mechanical engagement that can be easily switched between locked and unlocked states through manual actuation.
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 enables quick and secure removal and replacement of the cover, reducing the risk of lost fasteners and maintaining aerodynamic efficiency while allowing access for servicing, thus improving serviceability and fuel economy.
Implementation Method 1
the locking elements are pivotally mounted with a fulcrum, allowing for easy detachment and reattachment of the cover by applying a force
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure refers to a fastening arrangement adapted for detachably attaching a cover (102) of a vehicle rearview device (100), comprising: at least one locking element (302, 304) and at least one protrusion (406, 702); at least one retention element (502, 902) detachably restrained between the at least one protrusion (406, 702) and the at least one locking element (302, 304); and at least one aperture (202, 204) for accessing the at least one locking element (302, 304). It also refers to rearview device with such a fastening arrangement as well as to a vehicle with at least one such rearview device.