Vehicle Rearview Mirror Locking Bolt Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rearview mirrors have limited adjustable angle ranges and are not securely fixed to the vehicle, leading to inconvenience during driving, as they tend to move with the vehicle's motion.
Innovation Solution
A rearview mirror structure featuring a fixing mount, rotation unit, and first locking bolt that allows for adjustable rotation and secure fixation, with a mechanism where the first locking bolt tightens to secure the mirror in place, and loosens to increase the adjustable angle range, utilizing a system of connection tabs, abutting elements, and a peripheral trench to stabilize the mirror.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spherical holder is used to connect the rearview mirror body to the support post, then the mirror can be rotated to a desired angle, but the mirror is not fixed firmly and moves its angle as the vehicle runs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking bolt can be rotated between locked and unlocked positions. When unlocked, the mirror can be adjusted to desired angles; when locked, the mirror position is fixed firmly. This dynamic state change allows the system to switch between adjustability and stability as needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the friction parameter between contacting surfaces by using a locking bolt mechanism. In the unlocked state, low friction allows free rotation; in the locked state, high friction through the locking bolt prevents movement. This parameter change resolves the contradiction between ease of adjustment and position stability
2Reliability
If the first locking bolt is rotated tightly to fix the rearview mirror structure, then the mirror is secured stably during vehicle runs, but the adjustable angle range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bolt mechanism allows the system to dynamically switch between two states: locked state for stability during vehicle operation and unlocked state for adjustment. This dynamic capability enables the system to provide both stability and adjustability at different times, resolving the apparent contradiction
3Device complexity
If a conventional spherical holder mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the mirror is not fixed firmly and requires additional space for adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the adjustment function and fixation function into a single integrated mechanism. The locking bolt serves dual purposes: it allows rotation when unlocked and provides firm fixation when locked. This merging eliminates the need for separate adjustment and fixation mechanisms, maintaining structural simplicity while achieving reliable fixation
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 enhances the adjustable angle range of the rearview mirror and ensures stable fixation during vehicle operation, saving space and operation complexity while allowing for 360-degree rotation.
Implementation Method 1
The first locking bolt is screwed with the threaded orifice of the second connection tab of the fixing mount via the through orifice of the first connection tab of the fixing mount
Implementation Method 2
Each abutting element is driven by the first connection tab or the second connection tab to contact with the peripheral trench of the post of the mirror by using the forcing portion
Data Source
AI summary
A rearview mirror structure for vehicle contains: a fixing mount, a rotation unit, a mirror, and a first locking bolt. The fixing mount includes a first connection tab, a second connection tab, and a fixer. The first connection tab has a through orifice, and the second connection tab has a threaded orifice. The rotation unit includes a rotatable seat and at least one abutting element, wherein the rotatable seat has a rotating portion and a connecting portion, and the rotating portion has a first aperture and at least one accommodation groove, wherein the connecting portion has a trough, and the at least one abutting element has a forcing portion with a second aperture. The mirror includes a post having a peripheral trench. The first locking bolt is screwed with the threaded orifice via the through orifice, the first aperture, and the second aperture.