Exterior Rearview Mirror Actuator With Dual-Axis Speed Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview mirror assemblies for vehicles lack efficient mechanisms for adjusting the mirror head relative to the mounting arm, particularly in providing a clear rearward field of view while maintaining structural integrity and ease of operation.
Innovation Solution
A vehicular exterior rearview mirror assembly with a dual motor actuator and dual pivot axes, allowing the mirror head to pivot independently about horizontal and vertical axes, utilizing electric motors and gear trains for precise adjustment, and incorporating memory elements to track and adjust the mirror head's position for optimal viewing angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-axis pivot mechanism is used for mirror adjustment, then the device complexity is reduced, but the rearward visibility and viewing flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror adjustment mechanism is segmented into two independent pivot axes (first pivot axis and second pivot axis), allowing the mirror head to rotate about the first pivot axis independently and about the second pivot axis independently. This segmentation enables comprehensive viewing flexibility while maintaining manageable complexity through modular actuation systems.
2Ease of operation
If manual adjustment mechanisms are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation and precision of adjustment are deteriorated
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical adjustment system is replaced with an electrically operable actuator system comprising first and second electrically operable motors. These motors provide powered rotation about the first and second pivot axes, significantly improving ease of operation and adjustment precision while the overall system remains manageable through efficient mechanical-to-electrical substitution.
3Strength
If the mirror head is made heavily constructed for durability, then the strength is improved, but the ease of operation and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror head is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to be easily accelerated and decelerated by the actuator motors. This dynamic design enables the mirror head to achieve desired positions quickly with minimal energy input, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining sufficient structural strength for durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system adjusts operating parameters such as motor speed and torque based on the mirror head's position and adjustment requirements. By optimizing these parameters, the system achieves efficient energy utilization that balances the mirror head's strength requirements with minimal power consumption during operation.
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
Enables precise and efficient adjustment of the mirror head for improved rearward visibility, enhanced durability through dual pivot axes, and user-friendly operation with memory functions for personalized settings.
Implementation Method 1
A first electrically operable motor is disposed at the actuator attachment element. The first gear engages the arcuate first pivot gear disposed at the actuator attachment element. When the first electrically operable motor is electrically operated, the arcuate first pivot gear and actuator attachment element pivot relative to the actuator to adjust the mirror head about a first pivot axis
Implementation Method 2
A second pivot gear is disposed at the distal end of the mounting arm and is rotationally fixed relative to the mounting arm. The second gear engages the second pivot gear. When the second electrically operable motor is electrically operated, the actuator moves relative to the second pivot gear to adjust the mirror head about a second pivot axis
Implementation Method 3
The actuator includes a first pivot memory element that electronically tracks position of the actuator relative to the actuator attachment element as the mirror head pivots about the first pivot axis
Implementation Method 4
The actuator includes a second pivot memory element that electronically tracks position of the actuator relative to the second pivot gear as the mirror head pivots about the second pivot axis
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicular exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a mounting arm, a mirror head accommodating a mirror reflective element, and an electrically operable actuator disposed at a distal end of the mounting arm within the mirror head. The actuator is electrically operable to adjust the mirror head relative to the mounting arm, with the mirror reflective element moving in tandem with the mirror head relative to the mounting arm. The actuator includes first and second electrically operable motors that drive respective first and second gears. When the actuator is electrically operating to adjust the mirror head relative to the mounting arm and based at least in part on a position of the actuator about a pivot axis tracked by a pivot memory element, an operating speed of the second electrically operable motor is adjusted to adjust a pivoting speed of the mirror head about the pivot axis.