Multi-function Rearview Mirror Bezel Integrating Lighting Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rearview devices have inefficiencies in space utilization and manufacturing costs due to separate modules for different functions, leading to exposed electronics and lost installation space for additional components.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function rearview device with a bezel that integrates light assemblies and electronic means, allowing for additional functions and components to be installed within the device, featuring a plastic substrate with a chromium-based coating for hidden light assemblies until lit, and an actuator that moves the entire device for adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate modules are used for different functions in rearview devices, then each function can be independently implemented, but space utilization is reduced and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional modules (light assemblies for turn signals, brake lights, blind spot indicators, and ambient lighting) into a single integrated bezel structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate modules, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full functional versatility. The bezel serves as both the structural housing and the mounting platform for all lighting functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The bezel is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, houses electronic components, mounts light assemblies, and serves as the visible indicator surface. This multi-functionality approach allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate parts, improving space utilization and reducing manufacturing complexity.
2Shape
If a chromium-based coating is applied to the bezel, then the appearance is enhanced and light assemblies remain hidden until lit, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The chromium-based coating provides a reflective, metallic appearance that enhances the aesthetic quality of the bezel. The coating's reflective properties also serve a functional purpose by keeping the light assemblies hidden in the unlit state, creating a sleek appearance. Only when the lights are activated does the coating reflect the illuminated light, revealing the functional elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional functions are installed within the rearview device, then the functionality for the driver is enhanced, but the installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The design nests electronic components and light assemblies within the internal cavities and spaces of the bezel structure. This nesting approach allows multiple functional elements to be packed into the available space without increasing the external dimensions of the rearview device. The bezel's internal volume is efficiently utilized to accommodate turn signals, brake lights, blind spot indicators, and ambient lighting.
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
Enhances space utilization, reduces manufacturing costs, and provides additional functions and information to the driver while protecting components from environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a plastic substrate with a chromium-based coating for hidden light assemblies until lit
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to a multi-function rearview device (100, 700, 900) 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 housing (110) which is configured to be attached to the vehicle and to be moveable relative to the vehicle 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 the bezel (130) being made of a plastic substrate which is either colored or transparent and coated; 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 the housing (110); a foot suited to be fixed to the vehicle and relative to which the housing (110) with the bezel (130) is moveable; wherein the foot provides at least one spherical seat for the housing (110), and the multi-function rearview device is functionally connected to an actuator such that the actuator can move the multi-function device entirely including the housing, and not only the rearview element, with the actuator being configured for at least a rotational movement; and the electronic means is connected to at least one of the one or more light assemblies (200), the display element, the actuator, a sensor, the camera, a heater and a wiper.