Rotating Side Mirror Control With Timed Return Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Drivers face difficulties in controlling side mirrors while driving vehicles, as existing side mirrors do not allow for easy orientation adjustment using a button press.

Innovation Solution

A moving side mirror system is developed, featuring a rotatable design with an input device and actuator that allows the mirror to be adjusted by a button press, returning to its original position after a predetermined time, utilizing components like electromagnets, solenoids, and motors for mechanical movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional fixed side mirror is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the driver cannot easily adjust the orientation of the mirror

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of mirror orientation adjustmentVSAvoidcomplexity of mirror control system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The side mirror is designed with rotational capability around a vertical axis, transforming from a fixed structure to a dynamic one that can be adjusted to different orientations. The mirror assembly includes a rotating mechanism that allows it to pivot between multiple positions while maintaining stable reflection surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The manual adjustment mechanism is replaced with an automated electromechanical system. An electromagnet or solenoid actuator receives electrical signals from a button input device and automatically rotates the mirror to the desired orientation, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If manual adjustment of side mirror is used, then the device complexity is low, but the driver cannot adjust the mirror while driving

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of mirror adjustment during drivingVSAvoidcomplexity of control mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical adjustment system is replaced with an electromechanical control system. An input device such as a button mounted within the driver's reach sends electrical signals to an electromagnet or solenoid, which automatically actuates the mirror rotation mechanism, allowing adjustment without manual manipulation of mechanical parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The mirror adjustment system operates autonomously once the driver initiates the command. The electromechanical actuator self-regulates the rotation process, moving the mirror to the predetermined position and maintaining it there, reducing the need for continuous driver intervention or complex manual control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If the side mirror remains at extreme position, then the adjusted view is maintained, but the mirror should return to original position for safety

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of mirror positioningVSAvoidsafety of mirror position
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mirror rotation system operates in periodic cycles: when the driver activates the adjustment, the mirror rotates to the extreme position and remains there for a predetermined duration to maintain the adjusted view. After this period, the system automatically initiates a return rotation to the original position, creating a periodic adjustment-maintain-reset cycle that balances convenience with safety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 drivers to easily adjust and control the orientation of side mirrors using a button, enhancing visibility and convenience while driving vehicles like motorcycles, cars, and bicycles.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing components like electromagnets, solenoids, and motors for mechanical movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnet: Electromagnet

Implementation Method 2

utilizing components like electromagnets, solenoids, and motors for mechanical movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Data Source

PatentUS11820291B2Moving side mirror for a vehicle
Publication Date: 2023.11.21 GOVIND RAM NITIN
  • US11820291B2 patent drawing
  • US11820291B2 patent drawing
  • US11820291B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein is a moving side mirror for a vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments. Further, the moving side mirror is configured to be rotatably mounted on the vehicle. Further, the moving side mirror comprises an input device and an actuator. Further, the input device is configured for receiving an external action on a portion of the input device. Further, the actuator is operationally coupled with the input device. Further, the actuator is configured for rotating the moving side mirror relative to the vehicle around an axis in a forward direction from an original position of the moving side mirror to an extreme position of the moving side mirror based on the external action. Further, the actuator is configured for rotating the moving side mirror relative to the vehicle around the axis in a reverse direction from the extreme position to the original position after a predetermined duration of time.