Bezel-Free Rearview Mirror Housing for Electro-Optic Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rearview devices often have aesthetic and functional issues due to the presence of a bezel that wraps around the electro-optic element, which can obstruct the view and create an unsightly appearance.
Innovation Solution
A rearview device housing design that incorporates a peripheral flange and lip structure, allowing the electro-optic element to be positioned within a recessed area without a bezel, enhancing visibility and aesthetic appeal by maintaining a sleek, compact curvature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a bezel wraps around the electro-optic element, then the electro-optic element is supported and positioned, but the view is obstructed and the appearance becomes unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional bezel structure that wraps around the electro-optic element. Instead, the electro-optic element is positioned within a recessed area formed by the peripheral flange and lip structure, eliminating the harmful visual obstruction while maintaining proper support and positioning through the integrated housing design
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure merges the support and positioning functions previously provided by a separate bezel into the main housing body. The peripheral flange and lip structure integrate the electro-optic element mounting directly into the housing, eliminating the need for a distinct bezel component
2Strength
If a bezel is used to support the electro-optic element, then structural support is provided, but the device complexity increases and aesthetic appeal decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure merges the support and positioning functions previously provided by a separate bezel into the main housing body. The peripheral flange and lip structure integrate the electro-optic element mounting directly into the housing, eliminating the need for a distinct bezel component and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The peripheral flange structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, defines the recessed positioning area, and maintains the sleek external appearance. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate support components
Data Source
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AI summary
A rearview device having a housing that defines a cavity. The rearview device additionally includes an electro-optic element. In some embodiments, the housing may comprise a peripheral flange. The peripheral flange may have a mounting surface and a lip. The electro-optic element may be associated with the mounting surface. Further, the lip may substantially circumscribe the electro-optic element. In other embodiments, the rearview device may further comprise a mounting assembly having one or more mechanical fastener acceptors. One or more mechanical fasteners may be received by the mechanical fastener acceptors and extend through holes both in a holder and a circuit board disposed in the cavity. In yet other embodiments, the one or more mechanical fasteners may be received by the mechanical fastener acceptors and extend through and be supported by a washer disposed in the cavity.