Rearview Device Support Assembly with Pivotable Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rearview device support assemblies fail to maintain the movability of rearview devices while providing a stable support for various devices, and they do not effectively integrate light sensor devices to retrieve image data from outside the housing without compromising the rearward view.
Innovation Solution
A rearview device support assembly with a pivotable support member and a light sensor device housed within a rearview device housing, allowing for horizontal rotation of the device while maintaining a constant forward viewing angle for the sensor, and enabling adjustment of the rearview device to optimize the rearward viewing angle without affecting the sensor's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the rearview device housing is made fixed and stable to support various devices, then the support stability is improved, but the movability and adjustability of the rearview device is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: a fixed mounting base providing stability, a pivotable support member enabling adjustment, and a sensor housing that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function without compromising the others.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the sensor device and rearview device into a single integrated housing structure, where the sensor is positioned within the same housing as the rearview device. This merging eliminates the need for separate mounting structures while maintaining both stability and adjustability through the pivotable support member.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the light sensor device is positioned outside the housing to retrieve image data, then the sensor's field of view is improved, but the rearward view and aesthetic appearance are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The light sensor device is nested within the rearview device housing, positioned in an internal cavity. The sensor housing is contained within the main housing structure, allowing the sensor to retrieve image data through a viewing window while maintaining a clean, integrated exterior appearance without external protrusions.
Solution Approach 2:
A viewing window acts as an intermediary element, allowing the light sensor device to retrieve image data from outside the housing while remaining enclosed within the housing. This mediator enables the sensor's external field of view while preserving the housing's aesthetic appearance and structural integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the rearview device housing is made bulky to accommodate sensor devices, then the sensor integration is improved, but the overall design and appearance are affected
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is nested within the existing rearview device housing volume, utilizing the internal cavity space. This nesting approach allows full sensor integration without increasing the external dimensions of the housing, maintaining a sleek and compact design.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it houses the rearview device, contains the light sensor device in an internal cavity, provides structural support, and maintains aesthetic appearance. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional housing volume while achieving complete sensor integration.
Data Source
AI summary
An interior rearview device support assembly having a support member including a connecting end and a pivot end. A rearview device housing defines an internal cavity and includes a socket. The pivot end of the support member is coupled with the socket and is pivotable relative thereto. A sensor device is disposed inside the rearview device housing and is coupled to the support member.