Rearview Device Segmented Housing and Spacing Truss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview devices lack a sleek and aesthetically versatile design that integrates an electro-optic element with a housing and trim bezel configuration, failing to provide a slim profile and customizable appearance.
Innovation Solution
A rearview device design featuring a housing with an electro-optic element, a rear trim plate, and a peripheral gap, utilizing a spacing truss and aesthetic channel for a customizable appearance, along with an ambient light sensor and electrochromic medium for adjustable transmissivity, and a mounting assembly for secure windshield attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional rearview device design is used, then the device structure is simple, but the aesthetic appeal and customization options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into multiple components including a front housing portion, rear housing portion, and separate trim bezel assembly. This segmentation allows independent design optimization of each component for both aesthetics and functionality, enabling customization without requiring complete redesign of the entire housing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The trim bezel is nested within the housing structure, with the rear trim plate positioned behind the electro-optic element and the peripheral gap creating a nested visual effect. This nesting approach allows multiple aesthetic layers that can be customized independently while maintaining a compact overall structure.
2Length of moving object
If the electro-optic element is positioned close to the front surface, then the device achieves a slim profile, but the housing structure becomes more constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The design extends the housing structure in the depth dimension by incorporating a rear housing portion that extends behind the electro-optic element. This allows the front face to remain slim while providing sufficient internal space for mounting the electro-optic element and accommodating the trim bezel assembly in the rear dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The peripheral gap acts as an intermediary space between the electro-optic element and the rear trim plate, allowing for proper positioning and spacing of components while maintaining a compact overall profile. This gap enables the slim front design by distributing component spacing across multiple dimensions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trim components are added for customization, then aesthetic versatility improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trim bezel assembly is designed as a universal component that can be configured with different rear trim plates and appliques to provide multiple styling options. This multi-functional design allows a single base trim bezel structure to serve multiple aesthetic purposes through interchangeable elements, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the trim assembly have specialized functions: the peripheral gap provides aesthetic spacing, the rear trim plate offers customization, and the appliques provide branding or decorative elements. This local quality approach allows each component to be manufactured independently with optimized processes for its specific function, then assembled as a complete trim package.
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 design achieves a sleeker profile, improved aesthetics, and customizable styling options through interchangeable appliques and finishes, while maintaining functionality with an electro-optic element that adjusts between clear and darkened states based on ambient light.
Implementation Method 1
an electro-optic element that adjusts between clear and darkened states based on ambient light
Data Source
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AI summary
A rearview device includes a housing that includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side. An electro-optic element is operably coupled with the first side of the housing. A rear trim bezel is disposed on the second side of the housing. A rear trim plate is operably coupled with the second side of the housing. A peripheral gap is defined between the rear trim plate and the second side of the housing. A spacing truss is disposed in the peripheral gap. The spacing truss includes first and second lateral walls extending to the rear trim bezel.