Rounded Edge Mirror Substrate Bezelless Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rearview mirror assemblies often have a bezel that encompasses the perimeter edge and front surface of the reflective element, which can obstruct the view and create aesthetic issues, while also potentially increasing the risk of damage during collisions.
Innovation Solution
A bezelless rearview mirror assembly design where the reflective element is attached to a casing without a bezel, with a rounded perimeter edge that provides a smooth transition between the reflective element and the casing, enhancing visibility and safety by eliminating the bezel's obstruction and potential impact risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a bezel is used to encompass the perimeter edge and front surface of the reflective element, then the structural support and protection are improved, but the field of view is obstructed and aesthetic appeal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional bezel structure that surrounded the reflective element. Instead, the reflective element is directly mounted to the casing with its perimeter edge exposed, eliminating the visual obstruction and expanding the driver's field of view while maintaining structural integrity through direct mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional bezel frame surrounding the reflective element to a three-dimensional integration where the reflective element is directly mounted to the casing surface. This dimensional change eliminates the bezel's visual bulk while maintaining structural support through the casing itself.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a bezel is used to encompass the perimeter edge of the reflective element, then protection during impact is improved, but the risk of head impact damage increases and aesthetic appeal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the bezel structure that could potentially create impact risks. By directly mounting the reflective element to the casing, the design removes intermediate structures that could fail or create hazards during impact events.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates rounded edges on the reflective element and ensures the casing provides adequate mounting support before impact occurs. This pre-engineering of edge geometry and mounting structure provides inherent protection without requiring additional protective bezels.
3Shape
If the perimeter edge of the reflective element is exposed without a bezel, then aesthetic appeal and field of view are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies rounded edge geometry to the reflective element's perimeter. This curvature serves multiple functions: it provides aesthetic appeal by creating a smooth, modern appearance, and it reduces manufacturing precision requirements by eliminating sharp corners that would be difficult to finish and more prone to damage.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of making a mirror substrate for a vehicular rearview mirror assembly includes providing a glass substrate having a planar front surface, a planar rear surface and a circumferential perimeter edge. The glass substrate is positioned at a fixture and the front perimeter edge portion of the glass substrate is ground by moving a grinding wheel around the periphery of the glass substrate to establish a rounded surface about and around the periphery of the glass substrate and between the planar front surface and a rear portion of the perimeter edge of the glass substrate. The rounded surface has a radius of curvature of at least 2.5 mm. The rounded surface provides a curved transition between the planar front surface of the glass substrate and the rear portion of the perimeter edge of the glass substrate. The planar rear surface of the glass substrate is coated with a coating.