CA2159816A1 - Power pack for an automotive exterior mirror assembly - Google Patents
Power pack for an automotive exterior mirror assemblyInfo
- Publication number
- CA2159816A1 CA2159816A1 CA002159816A CA2159816A CA2159816A1 CA 2159816 A1 CA2159816 A1 CA 2159816A1 CA 002159816 A CA002159816 A CA 002159816A CA 2159816 A CA2159816 A CA 2159816A CA 2159816 A1 CA2159816 A1 CA 2159816A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- pair
- housing
- pivot
- pivot cup
- cup
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000011800 void material Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 7
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 7
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 4
- 229920006100 Vydyne® Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- YTRMTPPVNRALON-UHFFFAOYSA-N 2-phenyl-4-quinolinecarboxylic acid Chemical compound N=1C2=CC=CC=C2C(C(=O)O)=CC=1C1=CC=CC=C1 YTRMTPPVNRALON-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920002292 Nylon 6 Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 241000282320 Panthera leo Species 0.000 description 1
- 229910000639 Spring steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001084 poly(chloroprene) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C11/00—Pivots; Pivotal connections
- F16C11/04—Pivotal connections
- F16C11/06—Ball-joints; Other joints having more than one degree of angular freedom, i.e. universal joints
- F16C11/0661—Ball-joints; Other joints having more than one degree of angular freedom, i.e. universal joints the two co-operative parts each having both convex and concave interfaces
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R1/00—Optical viewing arrangements; Real-time viewing arrangements for drivers or passengers using optical image capturing systems, e.g. cameras or video systems specially adapted for use in or on vehicles
- B60R1/02—Rear-view mirror arrangements
- B60R1/06—Rear-view mirror arrangements mounted on vehicle exterior
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R1/00—Optical viewing arrangements; Real-time viewing arrangements for drivers or passengers using optical image capturing systems, e.g. cameras or video systems specially adapted for use in or on vehicles
- B60R1/02—Rear-view mirror arrangements
- B60R1/06—Rear-view mirror arrangements mounted on vehicle exterior
- B60R1/062—Rear-view mirror arrangements mounted on vehicle exterior with remote control for adjusting position
- B60R1/07—Rear-view mirror arrangements mounted on vehicle exterior with remote control for adjusting position by electrically powered actuators
- B60R1/072—Rear-view mirror arrangements mounted on vehicle exterior with remote control for adjusting position by electrically powered actuators for adjusting the mirror relative to its housing
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C11/00—Pivots; Pivotal connections
- F16C11/04—Pivotal connections
- F16C11/06—Ball-joints; Other joints having more than one degree of angular freedom, i.e. universal joints
Abstract
The present invention relates to a power pack (11) for an exterior automotive mirror assembly having a central depression (45) in its upper housing(19) whereby a large diameter pivot cup (21) can be used. The pivot cup, of thispower pack, is separate from the mirror casing and is retained by a unique spring retainer (27). The lower housing (17) comprises fastening bores for receiving bosses of said upper housing (19) and temporarily retaining said upper housing to said lower housing before mounting said power pack to a bracket of an automotive vehicle.
Description
, 2159816 21~3-00(~10 PO~TER PACK FOR AN AUTOMOTIVE ~ ~IOR MIRROR ASSEl~Bl,Y
BACKGROUN~ OF THE INVE~ION
This iu~elllioll relates generally to a power pack for an automotive S exterior mirror assembly and specifically to an exterior mirror power pack having a large diameter pivot cup.
Glass Illill~;)ls used in exterior mirror assemblies for automotive vehicles have become increasingly heavy due to the many added features such as electric heaters and electrochromic ~l;"""i"g units. This weight, when subjected10 to gravitational forces and the normal vehicle vibration, will create opticaldistortion of the mirror. This problem is exacerbated further when mirrors are used in combination with motori7ed power packs. However, vibration problem$
can be reduced in a number of ways. One such way is to use lighter weight materials. A second method is to use what is known as a "clam shell" power pack 15 housing wherein two outer surfaces are in frictional contact, thereby dampening the mirror from vlbration; this is depicted in U.S. Patent No. 4,281,899 entitled "Adjusting Device For Motor Car Mirrors", issued to Oskam on August 4, 1981.
A third method to reduce rnirror vibration is by use of a planetarv transmissiondrive unit; this can be obsel~ed in U.S. Patent No. 4,116,S38, entitled "Motor-Car 20 Mirror Adjustable About Two Perpendicular Axes", issued to Oskam on September 26, 1978. A fourth method uses a partially spherically shaped pivot cup which is held in frictional contact against a housing. Examples are: U.S.
Patent No. 4,696,~55 entitled '~lectric Remote Control Mirror Apparatus", issuedto Enomoto on September 29, 1987; U.S. Patent No. 4,693,571 entitled "Support ~5 And Drive Unit For Mirror Devices", issued to Klmura on September 15, 1987;
U.S. Patent No. 4,555,166 entitled "E1ectric Remote Control Mirror With Half-Ball Portion", issued to Enomoto on ~ovember 26, 1985; and, U.S. Patent No.
4,506,954 entitled '~otor Dr*en Remote Control Mirror Device With Shaft Portion Pivot Not Coincident With Shaft Axis", issued to Enomoto on March 26, 30 1985. Nevertheless, while these patents have improved the art, the patents using pivot cups usually have a cup with a relatively small cross sectional ciameter.
Moreover, these p*ot cups are integrated into the mirror c~ing~ A-60-179 349 discloses a motor actuating a mirror su~t)o~ g plate which employs a jacl~
*IE~IDE~ SHEF~
~ - 2159~i6 screw. A relatively small pivot cup is integral with the supporting plate and ispositioned outward of the motor. FR-A-2 119 772 shows a retainer which slidably secures a cup portion of a shell for a handset mirror. Finally, EP-A-0 276 677 teaches the use of a motor to drive a relatively small pivot cup through a 5 jsckscrew. An apellul~ of a mirror holder or casing is adjacent the pivot cup.
SUMMARY OF THE I~VENl IO~
In accordance with the present invention. the preferred embodiment of a power pack unit for use in exterior mirror assemblies for automotive vehicles is co~ ised of an upper housing wherein a partially spherical depression is created centrally therewithin. More specifically, the depression in this unique upper housing extends below the planar surface created by the tOp of the motors contained thereunder. Therefore, the pivot cup sectional diameter can become larger without taking up increased space between the lower housing and the rnirror.
A further aspect of the ~lcsell~ invention iS that the pivot cup is independent from the mirror casing. This allows for serviceability of the power pack without de?llvyillg the mirror. This is also beneficial in that the pivot cup material can be diL[ere~t than the ultraviolet light stabilized and colored casing material.
Another aspect of the plesent invention is that the upper housing can be permanently ~tt~hed to the lower housing when both are fastened to the )ullLillg bracket. Furthermore, a un~que spring retainer eliminates the need fora co~ essio" spring to provide fricnon against the pivot cup.
BRIEF DESCRIPTIO~ OF THE DRAWINGS
- Additional fealu.es of the present invention will become apparent from the following deseLi~,lion and appended cl~im~, taken in conjunction with the ac~o~ .~lg dl awill~,a.
Figure 1 is a rear elevation view showing the preferred embodiment of tne present invention automotive exterior rnirror assembly and power pack;
t~ S~
~_ 21~9816 -3 .
Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the present invention power pack from Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a rear elevation view showing the lower housing and dnve system of the plesel~t invention power pack from Figure 1;
S Figure 4 is a sectional view of the present i~ LiO~ power pack, taken from Figure 3 along line 4-4;
Figure 5 is also a sectional view of the present invention power pac~
in a pivoted position, taken from Figure 3 along line 4-4;
Figure 6 is a l,er~cctive view showing the retention means of the present invention power pack from Figure 2;
Figure 7 is a sectional view showing the drive system of the present invention power pack, taken from Figure 3 along line 7-7; and figure 8 is a sectional view showing a portion of the present invention power pack, taken from Figure 1 along line 8-8.
DESCRrPTION OF T~ PRE~;ERRED EMBODIMENT
The p,efe.lcd embodiment of the present invention automotive exterior rnirror power pack 11 serves to retain and remotely position a rmirror 13.
~eferring to Figure 1, the power pacl~ 11 is attached to a mounting bracket 15, both of which are encased within an aesthetically pleasing outer shell 16.
Referring to Figures 2-5, power pack 11 is co~ ised of a lower housir~g 17, an upper housing 19, a boot 31, a pivot cup 21, a pivot sleeve 23, a pivot retainer 25, a spring retainer 27 and a dri e means 29. Lower housing 17 is circular in shape, having a center portion 34 which is substantially ~at with ribs 33 extending uywards theleLoln. Center portion 34 also contains cavities 35 for retai~ g a pair of motors 37 and a variety of gears. Lower housing 17 has upwardly extending walls 39 around the ci~ rerellce of the part.
Upper housing 19 is located adjacent to and on top of the lower housing 17. Upper housing 19 has a genera~ly flat top surface 41 bounded cL(. ul..ferential~y by a downward extending wall 43. Top surface 41 contains a 30 partially spherical depression 45 centrally located therewithin. Sphencal depression 45 partially protrudes below the top hol~ontal plane created by ~ 2159816 .
motors 37. A post 47 is centrally located within spherical depression 45 and is perpendicular to top surface 41. Post 47 is integrally molded within upper housing 19. Top surface 41 of upper housing 19 has two openings 49 contained therewithin. A jack screw 51 extends u~wards through each opening 49, and both openings 49 and threaded portion 113 of jac~ screws 51 are covered by an elastomeric boot 31. This boot 31 serves to protect drive mech~ni~m 29 from dirtand water. Boot 31 has two upwardly directed conical projections 53 with passages 55 contained in the tOp side of each. Each conical section 53 has an outwardly extending bottom lip 57 therearound with pair of lips 57 being connected by a generally flat section 59. Each lip 57 fits snugly over an outwardly extending i~ange 61 partially molded around upper housing openings 49. Upper housing 19 and lower housing 17 are injection molded from Nor~ 1 844, which can be obtained from General Electric Plastics.
As can best be seen in Figure 8, upper housing 19 has three equallv spaced apart coll,plesslble bosses 50 extending down below normal surface 41 of upper housing 19. A fastening bore 52 extends through each boss 50. These multiple bosses ~0 serve to engage m~t-~hinP bosses 54 upwardly extending from central portion 34 of lower housing 17. A fastening bore 52 also extends axiallythrough lower bosses 54. The illtel~rence fit of colllplessible bosses 50 into lower bosses 54 provides a temporary att~hment be~veen upper and lower housinos~
respecl*ely 19 and 17. Once the entire power paclc 11 is assembled, screws 141 can be driven through bores 52 and directly into mounting ~racket 15, thus upperhousing 19 and lower housing 17 are permanently and simultaneously attached when the entire assembly is a~ixed to mounting braclcet 15.
Referring again to Figures 2-~, pivot cup 21 is proximately adjacent to the concave side of upper housing spherical depression 45. Pivot cup 21 has a c~ntral parhally spherical portion 63 bordered by a generally flat outer rim 65.
Within the center of spherical portion 63 there e7~ists a generally square aperture 67 with rounded corners. When pivot cup 21 is assembled onto upper housing 19, upper housing post 47 extends upward through square- aperture 67, and edges 69 of square aperture 67 limit the X-Y pivotal movement. A groove 71 is formed in the concave side of pivot cup spherical portion 63 and runs latitudinally from rim AMENDED S!lE~t ~_ 21S9~16 65 to square aperture edge 69. At two positions on the backsi~e of pivot cup nm 65 there are a set of cavities 75 which serve to pivotally retain top portion 77 of each jac~ screw 51. The inside diameter of pivot cup spherical portion 62 is ap~fo,~ ately 37 rnillimeters, thereby placing pivot point 79 at the intersection of 5 pivot axis 73 and the bac~side of mirror casing 81. The large size of pivot cup spherical portion 62 and the position of pivot point 79 significantly reduces optical distortion caused by vibration. Pivot cup 21 is also injection molded from ~Toryl 844. Boot 31 is injection molded from a Neoprene synthe.ic elastomer.
Pivot sleeve 23 is located on top of spherical portion 63 of pivot cup 10 21. Pivot sleeve 23 is partially spherically shaped on its top and bottom surfaces, respectively 84 and 86, with a subst~ntially square orifice 82 cut centrally therein.
Pivot sleeve 23 has a latitudinal ri~ 74 extending along bottom surface 86 thereof such that nb 74 fits within groove 71 of pivot cup 21. Rib 74 and groove 71 act coincidentally to index the pivotal motion along either the X or Y axis. A
15 latitudinal groove 88 extends along top surface 84 of pivot sleeve 23 from a peripheral edge 90 to central square orifice 82. This groove 88 is perpendicularto n~ 74. Pivot sleeve 23 is injection molded from Nylon 6/6.
Pivot retainer 25 is forcibly CO~ essed upon top surface 84 of pivot sleeve 23. P*ot re~ail~er 25 has a lower surface 92 which is partially spherical20 with a void located centrally ther~iLllill. A nb 77 extends latitudinally along lower surface 92 and fits within groove 88 of pivot sleeve 23. This rib 77 and groove 88 cooperatively act to maintain pivotal movement along the a~s perpen~lic~ r to that of rib 74 and groove 71. Moreover, top side 94 of pivot retainer 25 has structural ribbing. Pivot retainer 25 is injection molded from 25 Nylon R400G, which can be obtained from Monsanto Corporation.
A spring retainer 27 forcibly co~lcsses pivot retainer 25 against -pivot sleeve 23, which in turn, frictionally traps pivot cup 21 between pivot sleeve 23 and upper housing 19. This dowllwa~d press,lle supplies pivotal control and vibration da",~cllillg for pIVOt CUp 21. As can best be observed in Figure 6, spring 30 retainer 27 itself col"~lises a central ring portion 79 with an openin 81a centrally located therewithin, s* relief slots 83 r~ ting outward ~rom the central open~ng81a, and s* S-shaped spring arms 85 radiating outward and down below central A~ENSE~ S~lEE~-~_ 2159816 ring portion 79a. Inside edge 87 of central ring 79a supplies the locking action of spring retainer 27 upon the end of upper housing post 47. The downwardly pressing spring arms 85 supply tne coulprcssi~te force against top surface 94 ofpivot retainer 25. Spring retainer 27 is st~mre~ and formed from spring steel.
Referring to Figures 4, 5 and 7, drive means 29 acts to pivotally move the pivot cup 21 about its X and Y axes. Drive means 29 is retained between the upper and lower housings, respectively 19 and 17. The pair of motors 37 are spaced so that their rearward ends are facing toward one another with their respective drive shafts 89 angularly facing away from each other. T~hese motors 37 are of a standard type known to one skilled in the art. Upon each drive shaf~ 89, a worm gear 91 is press fit thereupon. Each worrn gear 91 is injection molded from Monsanto Vydyne G.P. Nylon and has a diametrical pitch of 64, a pressure angle of 20, a lead angle of 5, a right hand helix, a pitch diameter of 4.5974 millimeters, an outside diameter of 5.3899 millimeters. In turn, each worm gear 91 engages upper teeth 93 of an idler gear 95. Each idler gear 95 has 24 upper teeth 93, a 64 diametral pitch, a ~ress~lre angle of 20, a pitch diameter of 9.525 millimeters, an outside diameter of 10.319 millimeters, and a 5 right hand he~ix. Each idler gear 95 is axially mounted upon a pin 113 dc,wllwardly extending from upper housing 19, thereby maintaining constant angled engagement with each worm gear 91. This reduces the gearin_ noise. A
lower teeth set 99 is axially beneath upper teeth 93. There are 12 lower teeth 99, each having a diametral pitch of 64, a ~,es~ule angle of 20, a pitch diameter of 4.763 rnillimeters, an outside diameter of 5.556 millimeters and a 5 right handheli~ angle. Furthermore, these lower teeth 99 engage and drive a screw gear 101.
Each screw gear 101 has 44 te~th with a diametral pitch of 64, a pressure angle of 20, a pitch diameter of 17.462 millimeters, an outside diameter of 18.254, and a 5 left hand hel~ angle, and is made from Vydyne G.P. ~ylon. Each screw gear 101 sits upon a spring washer 103 which provides u~w~rd pre;,:,ule against screwgear 101. Each screw gear 101 has a generally flat upper surface 105 with a plurality of fingers 107 extending upwards thereLol,l These fingers 107 have inwardly facing points 109 and an O-ring 111 co.llp~esses each finger 107 inwards for engagement w~th a jaclc screw 51. Each jaclc screw has a lower threaded ~ LJ ;*~
~ ~, 21S9816 portion 131 having M6 by 1.0 millimeter threads. The top portion 77 of each jackscrew 51 protrudes up through boot passages 55 and pivotally connects with each pivot cup cavity 75. Each jack screw 51 is also injection molded from Vydyne G.P. ~ylon. Jack screw drives of this general type are shown: in U.S. Patent ~o.5 4,940,321 entitled '~rive Unit For Electrically Driven Remote-Controlled Mirror", issued to Yoshida on July 10, 1990; in U.S. Patent No. 4,881,418 entitled "Pivotable Screw Jack Drive", issued to Fimeri on November 21, 1989; and in U.S.Patent No. 4,693,571 entitled "Support And Drive Unit For Mirror Devices"~
issued to Kimura on September 15, 1987.
It will be appreciated that the power pack of the present invention represents a significant i~ Jv~ ent for automotive exterior rnirror assemblies.
The central depression in the upper housing and the specific motor positioning within the lower housing allow for a large ~ m~ter pivot cup to be used in a thin cross sectional mirror package. This will ~ Tifi~ntly reduce the vibrational 15 problems which lead to optical distortion. Furthermore, the pivot cup is independent from the mirror casing thereby allowing easier serviceability and more cost effective material selections. The unique spring retainer also allows for adequate frictional da~ en.ng without requiring a separate co~ cssion spring and spring retainer. Finally, the ability to simultaneously attach the upper and20 lower housings, while assembling the power pack to the mounting bracket, provides a more cost effective assembly technique.
While a number of specific embodi,l.ellts of this power pack have .
been ~ ose~l it will be appreci~te~l that various modifications may be made without de~a~Ling from the present invention. For example, while a spring 25 retention means has been shown, a collvellLional spring retainer and co,ll~rcssion spring can be used without departing from the present invention. Furthermore, it will be appreci~tecl that other dri~e means may be employed without departingfrom the invention, even though a specific worm gear, idler gear, screw gear andjac~ screw, drive means have been disclosed. While various materials-have been 30 disclosed in an exemplary fashion, various other materials may of course be employed. It is intended by the following claims to cover these and any other ~ . 215981B
departures from these disclosed embodiments which fall within the true spirit ofthis invention.
~0 ~
BACKGROUN~ OF THE INVE~ION
This iu~elllioll relates generally to a power pack for an automotive S exterior mirror assembly and specifically to an exterior mirror power pack having a large diameter pivot cup.
Glass Illill~;)ls used in exterior mirror assemblies for automotive vehicles have become increasingly heavy due to the many added features such as electric heaters and electrochromic ~l;"""i"g units. This weight, when subjected10 to gravitational forces and the normal vehicle vibration, will create opticaldistortion of the mirror. This problem is exacerbated further when mirrors are used in combination with motori7ed power packs. However, vibration problem$
can be reduced in a number of ways. One such way is to use lighter weight materials. A second method is to use what is known as a "clam shell" power pack 15 housing wherein two outer surfaces are in frictional contact, thereby dampening the mirror from vlbration; this is depicted in U.S. Patent No. 4,281,899 entitled "Adjusting Device For Motor Car Mirrors", issued to Oskam on August 4, 1981.
A third method to reduce rnirror vibration is by use of a planetarv transmissiondrive unit; this can be obsel~ed in U.S. Patent No. 4,116,S38, entitled "Motor-Car 20 Mirror Adjustable About Two Perpendicular Axes", issued to Oskam on September 26, 1978. A fourth method uses a partially spherically shaped pivot cup which is held in frictional contact against a housing. Examples are: U.S.
Patent No. 4,696,~55 entitled '~lectric Remote Control Mirror Apparatus", issuedto Enomoto on September 29, 1987; U.S. Patent No. 4,693,571 entitled "Support ~5 And Drive Unit For Mirror Devices", issued to Klmura on September 15, 1987;
U.S. Patent No. 4,555,166 entitled "E1ectric Remote Control Mirror With Half-Ball Portion", issued to Enomoto on ~ovember 26, 1985; and, U.S. Patent No.
4,506,954 entitled '~otor Dr*en Remote Control Mirror Device With Shaft Portion Pivot Not Coincident With Shaft Axis", issued to Enomoto on March 26, 30 1985. Nevertheless, while these patents have improved the art, the patents using pivot cups usually have a cup with a relatively small cross sectional ciameter.
Moreover, these p*ot cups are integrated into the mirror c~ing~ A-60-179 349 discloses a motor actuating a mirror su~t)o~ g plate which employs a jacl~
*IE~IDE~ SHEF~
~ - 2159~i6 screw. A relatively small pivot cup is integral with the supporting plate and ispositioned outward of the motor. FR-A-2 119 772 shows a retainer which slidably secures a cup portion of a shell for a handset mirror. Finally, EP-A-0 276 677 teaches the use of a motor to drive a relatively small pivot cup through a 5 jsckscrew. An apellul~ of a mirror holder or casing is adjacent the pivot cup.
SUMMARY OF THE I~VENl IO~
In accordance with the present invention. the preferred embodiment of a power pack unit for use in exterior mirror assemblies for automotive vehicles is co~ ised of an upper housing wherein a partially spherical depression is created centrally therewithin. More specifically, the depression in this unique upper housing extends below the planar surface created by the tOp of the motors contained thereunder. Therefore, the pivot cup sectional diameter can become larger without taking up increased space between the lower housing and the rnirror.
A further aspect of the ~lcsell~ invention iS that the pivot cup is independent from the mirror casing. This allows for serviceability of the power pack without de?llvyillg the mirror. This is also beneficial in that the pivot cup material can be diL[ere~t than the ultraviolet light stabilized and colored casing material.
Another aspect of the plesent invention is that the upper housing can be permanently ~tt~hed to the lower housing when both are fastened to the )ullLillg bracket. Furthermore, a un~que spring retainer eliminates the need fora co~ essio" spring to provide fricnon against the pivot cup.
BRIEF DESCRIPTIO~ OF THE DRAWINGS
- Additional fealu.es of the present invention will become apparent from the following deseLi~,lion and appended cl~im~, taken in conjunction with the ac~o~ .~lg dl awill~,a.
Figure 1 is a rear elevation view showing the preferred embodiment of tne present invention automotive exterior rnirror assembly and power pack;
t~ S~
~_ 21~9816 -3 .
Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the present invention power pack from Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a rear elevation view showing the lower housing and dnve system of the plesel~t invention power pack from Figure 1;
S Figure 4 is a sectional view of the present i~ LiO~ power pack, taken from Figure 3 along line 4-4;
Figure 5 is also a sectional view of the present invention power pac~
in a pivoted position, taken from Figure 3 along line 4-4;
Figure 6 is a l,er~cctive view showing the retention means of the present invention power pack from Figure 2;
Figure 7 is a sectional view showing the drive system of the present invention power pack, taken from Figure 3 along line 7-7; and figure 8 is a sectional view showing a portion of the present invention power pack, taken from Figure 1 along line 8-8.
DESCRrPTION OF T~ PRE~;ERRED EMBODIMENT
The p,efe.lcd embodiment of the present invention automotive exterior rnirror power pack 11 serves to retain and remotely position a rmirror 13.
~eferring to Figure 1, the power pacl~ 11 is attached to a mounting bracket 15, both of which are encased within an aesthetically pleasing outer shell 16.
Referring to Figures 2-5, power pack 11 is co~ ised of a lower housir~g 17, an upper housing 19, a boot 31, a pivot cup 21, a pivot sleeve 23, a pivot retainer 25, a spring retainer 27 and a dri e means 29. Lower housing 17 is circular in shape, having a center portion 34 which is substantially ~at with ribs 33 extending uywards theleLoln. Center portion 34 also contains cavities 35 for retai~ g a pair of motors 37 and a variety of gears. Lower housing 17 has upwardly extending walls 39 around the ci~ rerellce of the part.
Upper housing 19 is located adjacent to and on top of the lower housing 17. Upper housing 19 has a genera~ly flat top surface 41 bounded cL(. ul..ferential~y by a downward extending wall 43. Top surface 41 contains a 30 partially spherical depression 45 centrally located therewithin. Sphencal depression 45 partially protrudes below the top hol~ontal plane created by ~ 2159816 .
motors 37. A post 47 is centrally located within spherical depression 45 and is perpendicular to top surface 41. Post 47 is integrally molded within upper housing 19. Top surface 41 of upper housing 19 has two openings 49 contained therewithin. A jack screw 51 extends u~wards through each opening 49, and both openings 49 and threaded portion 113 of jac~ screws 51 are covered by an elastomeric boot 31. This boot 31 serves to protect drive mech~ni~m 29 from dirtand water. Boot 31 has two upwardly directed conical projections 53 with passages 55 contained in the tOp side of each. Each conical section 53 has an outwardly extending bottom lip 57 therearound with pair of lips 57 being connected by a generally flat section 59. Each lip 57 fits snugly over an outwardly extending i~ange 61 partially molded around upper housing openings 49. Upper housing 19 and lower housing 17 are injection molded from Nor~ 1 844, which can be obtained from General Electric Plastics.
As can best be seen in Figure 8, upper housing 19 has three equallv spaced apart coll,plesslble bosses 50 extending down below normal surface 41 of upper housing 19. A fastening bore 52 extends through each boss 50. These multiple bosses ~0 serve to engage m~t-~hinP bosses 54 upwardly extending from central portion 34 of lower housing 17. A fastening bore 52 also extends axiallythrough lower bosses 54. The illtel~rence fit of colllplessible bosses 50 into lower bosses 54 provides a temporary att~hment be~veen upper and lower housinos~
respecl*ely 19 and 17. Once the entire power paclc 11 is assembled, screws 141 can be driven through bores 52 and directly into mounting ~racket 15, thus upperhousing 19 and lower housing 17 are permanently and simultaneously attached when the entire assembly is a~ixed to mounting braclcet 15.
Referring again to Figures 2-~, pivot cup 21 is proximately adjacent to the concave side of upper housing spherical depression 45. Pivot cup 21 has a c~ntral parhally spherical portion 63 bordered by a generally flat outer rim 65.
Within the center of spherical portion 63 there e7~ists a generally square aperture 67 with rounded corners. When pivot cup 21 is assembled onto upper housing 19, upper housing post 47 extends upward through square- aperture 67, and edges 69 of square aperture 67 limit the X-Y pivotal movement. A groove 71 is formed in the concave side of pivot cup spherical portion 63 and runs latitudinally from rim AMENDED S!lE~t ~_ 21S9~16 65 to square aperture edge 69. At two positions on the backsi~e of pivot cup nm 65 there are a set of cavities 75 which serve to pivotally retain top portion 77 of each jac~ screw 51. The inside diameter of pivot cup spherical portion 62 is ap~fo,~ ately 37 rnillimeters, thereby placing pivot point 79 at the intersection of 5 pivot axis 73 and the bac~side of mirror casing 81. The large size of pivot cup spherical portion 62 and the position of pivot point 79 significantly reduces optical distortion caused by vibration. Pivot cup 21 is also injection molded from ~Toryl 844. Boot 31 is injection molded from a Neoprene synthe.ic elastomer.
Pivot sleeve 23 is located on top of spherical portion 63 of pivot cup 10 21. Pivot sleeve 23 is partially spherically shaped on its top and bottom surfaces, respectively 84 and 86, with a subst~ntially square orifice 82 cut centrally therein.
Pivot sleeve 23 has a latitudinal ri~ 74 extending along bottom surface 86 thereof such that nb 74 fits within groove 71 of pivot cup 21. Rib 74 and groove 71 act coincidentally to index the pivotal motion along either the X or Y axis. A
15 latitudinal groove 88 extends along top surface 84 of pivot sleeve 23 from a peripheral edge 90 to central square orifice 82. This groove 88 is perpendicularto n~ 74. Pivot sleeve 23 is injection molded from Nylon 6/6.
Pivot retainer 25 is forcibly CO~ essed upon top surface 84 of pivot sleeve 23. P*ot re~ail~er 25 has a lower surface 92 which is partially spherical20 with a void located centrally ther~iLllill. A nb 77 extends latitudinally along lower surface 92 and fits within groove 88 of pivot sleeve 23. This rib 77 and groove 88 cooperatively act to maintain pivotal movement along the a~s perpen~lic~ r to that of rib 74 and groove 71. Moreover, top side 94 of pivot retainer 25 has structural ribbing. Pivot retainer 25 is injection molded from 25 Nylon R400G, which can be obtained from Monsanto Corporation.
A spring retainer 27 forcibly co~lcsses pivot retainer 25 against -pivot sleeve 23, which in turn, frictionally traps pivot cup 21 between pivot sleeve 23 and upper housing 19. This dowllwa~d press,lle supplies pivotal control and vibration da",~cllillg for pIVOt CUp 21. As can best be observed in Figure 6, spring 30 retainer 27 itself col"~lises a central ring portion 79 with an openin 81a centrally located therewithin, s* relief slots 83 r~ ting outward ~rom the central open~ng81a, and s* S-shaped spring arms 85 radiating outward and down below central A~ENSE~ S~lEE~-~_ 2159816 ring portion 79a. Inside edge 87 of central ring 79a supplies the locking action of spring retainer 27 upon the end of upper housing post 47. The downwardly pressing spring arms 85 supply tne coulprcssi~te force against top surface 94 ofpivot retainer 25. Spring retainer 27 is st~mre~ and formed from spring steel.
Referring to Figures 4, 5 and 7, drive means 29 acts to pivotally move the pivot cup 21 about its X and Y axes. Drive means 29 is retained between the upper and lower housings, respectively 19 and 17. The pair of motors 37 are spaced so that their rearward ends are facing toward one another with their respective drive shafts 89 angularly facing away from each other. T~hese motors 37 are of a standard type known to one skilled in the art. Upon each drive shaf~ 89, a worm gear 91 is press fit thereupon. Each worrn gear 91 is injection molded from Monsanto Vydyne G.P. Nylon and has a diametrical pitch of 64, a pressure angle of 20, a lead angle of 5, a right hand helix, a pitch diameter of 4.5974 millimeters, an outside diameter of 5.3899 millimeters. In turn, each worm gear 91 engages upper teeth 93 of an idler gear 95. Each idler gear 95 has 24 upper teeth 93, a 64 diametral pitch, a ~ress~lre angle of 20, a pitch diameter of 9.525 millimeters, an outside diameter of 10.319 millimeters, and a 5 right hand he~ix. Each idler gear 95 is axially mounted upon a pin 113 dc,wllwardly extending from upper housing 19, thereby maintaining constant angled engagement with each worm gear 91. This reduces the gearin_ noise. A
lower teeth set 99 is axially beneath upper teeth 93. There are 12 lower teeth 99, each having a diametral pitch of 64, a ~,es~ule angle of 20, a pitch diameter of 4.763 rnillimeters, an outside diameter of 5.556 millimeters and a 5 right handheli~ angle. Furthermore, these lower teeth 99 engage and drive a screw gear 101.
Each screw gear 101 has 44 te~th with a diametral pitch of 64, a pressure angle of 20, a pitch diameter of 17.462 millimeters, an outside diameter of 18.254, and a 5 left hand hel~ angle, and is made from Vydyne G.P. ~ylon. Each screw gear 101 sits upon a spring washer 103 which provides u~w~rd pre;,:,ule against screwgear 101. Each screw gear 101 has a generally flat upper surface 105 with a plurality of fingers 107 extending upwards thereLol,l These fingers 107 have inwardly facing points 109 and an O-ring 111 co.llp~esses each finger 107 inwards for engagement w~th a jaclc screw 51. Each jaclc screw has a lower threaded ~ LJ ;*~
~ ~, 21S9816 portion 131 having M6 by 1.0 millimeter threads. The top portion 77 of each jackscrew 51 protrudes up through boot passages 55 and pivotally connects with each pivot cup cavity 75. Each jack screw 51 is also injection molded from Vydyne G.P. ~ylon. Jack screw drives of this general type are shown: in U.S. Patent ~o.5 4,940,321 entitled '~rive Unit For Electrically Driven Remote-Controlled Mirror", issued to Yoshida on July 10, 1990; in U.S. Patent No. 4,881,418 entitled "Pivotable Screw Jack Drive", issued to Fimeri on November 21, 1989; and in U.S.Patent No. 4,693,571 entitled "Support And Drive Unit For Mirror Devices"~
issued to Kimura on September 15, 1987.
It will be appreciated that the power pack of the present invention represents a significant i~ Jv~ ent for automotive exterior rnirror assemblies.
The central depression in the upper housing and the specific motor positioning within the lower housing allow for a large ~ m~ter pivot cup to be used in a thin cross sectional mirror package. This will ~ Tifi~ntly reduce the vibrational 15 problems which lead to optical distortion. Furthermore, the pivot cup is independent from the mirror casing thereby allowing easier serviceability and more cost effective material selections. The unique spring retainer also allows for adequate frictional da~ en.ng without requiring a separate co~ cssion spring and spring retainer. Finally, the ability to simultaneously attach the upper and20 lower housings, while assembling the power pack to the mounting bracket, provides a more cost effective assembly technique.
While a number of specific embodi,l.ellts of this power pack have .
been ~ ose~l it will be appreci~te~l that various modifications may be made without de~a~Ling from the present invention. For example, while a spring 25 retention means has been shown, a collvellLional spring retainer and co,ll~rcssion spring can be used without departing from the present invention. Furthermore, it will be appreci~tecl that other dri~e means may be employed without departingfrom the invention, even though a specific worm gear, idler gear, screw gear andjac~ screw, drive means have been disclosed. While various materials-have been 30 disclosed in an exemplary fashion, various other materials may of course be employed. It is intended by the following claims to cover these and any other ~ . 215981B
departures from these disclosed embodiments which fall within the true spirit ofthis invention.
~0 ~
Claims (10)
1. A power pack (11) for an automotive exterior mirror assembly comprising a pivot cup (21) having a partially spherical center portion (63) circumferentially bordered by a substantially flat rim (65) therearound;
a first housing (19) having a centrally located post (47) protruding upward therefrom, said first housing having a partially spherical depression (45) centrally located therewithin, said first housing spherical depression partiallyextending below the top horizontal plane of a pair of motors (37) contained therewithin, said first housing spherical depression serving to provide frictional contact with the lower surface of said pivot cup's spherical center portion, said post of said first housing extending through an aperture (67) within the center of said pivot cup's spherical portion;
a pivot sleeve (23) having a partially spherical shape, said pivot sleeve being frictionally located against the top of said pivot cup's central spherical portion, said pivot sleeve having an orifice (82) in the center thereof such that said first housing post extends therethrough;
a pivot retainer (25) having a partially spherically shaped lower surface, said pivot retainer being forcibly located against the top of said pivot sleeve, said pivot retainer having a void in the center thereof such that said first housing post extends therethrough;
a second housing (17) coupled to said first housing having cavities for locating said pair of motors therewithin; and said pivot cup sliding between said pivot sleeve and said first housing.
a first housing (19) having a centrally located post (47) protruding upward therefrom, said first housing having a partially spherical depression (45) centrally located therewithin, said first housing spherical depression partiallyextending below the top horizontal plane of a pair of motors (37) contained therewithin, said first housing spherical depression serving to provide frictional contact with the lower surface of said pivot cup's spherical center portion, said post of said first housing extending through an aperture (67) within the center of said pivot cup's spherical portion;
a pivot sleeve (23) having a partially spherical shape, said pivot sleeve being frictionally located against the top of said pivot cup's central spherical portion, said pivot sleeve having an orifice (82) in the center thereof such that said first housing post extends therethrough;
a pivot retainer (25) having a partially spherically shaped lower surface, said pivot retainer being forcibly located against the top of said pivot sleeve, said pivot retainer having a void in the center thereof such that said first housing post extends therethrough;
a second housing (17) coupled to said first housing having cavities for locating said pair of motors therewithin; and said pivot cup sliding between said pivot sleeve and said first housing.
2. The power pack of claim 1 wherein:
a mirror holder (81) has a central portion which is substantially flat with ribs thereupon; and said pivot cup is an independent member from said mirror holder, whereby said mirror holder and said mirror, retained thereupon, can be disassembled from said pivot cup for repair.
a mirror holder (81) has a central portion which is substantially flat with ribs thereupon; and said pivot cup is an independent member from said mirror holder, whereby said mirror holder and said mirror, retained thereupon, can be disassembled from said pivot cup for repair.
3. The power pack of Claim 2 wherein:
each of said pair of motors has a drive shaft (89) extending therefrom;
said second housing holds said pair of motors, the rearward end of each of said pair of motors being angled toward each other and said drive shaftsbeing displaced at an angle away from one another; and said first housing has said partially spherical depression centrally located therewithin, said first housing spherical depression partially extends below the top horizontal plane created by said pair of motors and said first housing spherical depression protrudes downwards into the space between said pair of motors.
each of said pair of motors has a drive shaft (89) extending therefrom;
said second housing holds said pair of motors, the rearward end of each of said pair of motors being angled toward each other and said drive shaftsbeing displaced at an angle away from one another; and said first housing has said partially spherical depression centrally located therewithin, said first housing spherical depression partially extends below the top horizontal plane created by said pair of motors and said first housing spherical depression protrudes downwards into the space between said pair of motors.
4. The power pack of Claim 3 further comprising:
a pair of worm gears(91) each being attached to said drive shafts by an interference fit, said drive shafts supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of worm gears;
a pair of idler gears (95) each having two different teeth sets axially spaced thereupon, said pair of idler gears each being axially held upon said upper housing by a pin (113) extending downward therefrom, said pair of worm gears supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of idler gears;
a pair of screw gears (101) each having geared teeth surrounding a lower circular portion thereof, each of said pair of screw gears having a plurality of fingers (107) extending upwards therefrom, said plurality of fingers each having internally directed points (109) thereupon, said pair of screw gears being located in a pair of cavities within said lower housing, each of said pair of idler gears supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of screw gears;
a pair fo O-rings (111) placed around said plurality of fingers on each of said pair of screw gears for maintaining inward pressure of said plurality of fingers;
a pair of jack screws (51) each being externally threaded, the external threads of each providing an engagement surface thereupon with said plurality of fingers of said screw gear, said plurality of fingers supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of jack screws, said pair of jack screws each having a generally spherical top with a pin extending centrally therefrom, said pin being generally affixed perpendicular to each of said pair of jackscrews' axes; and said pivot cup rim having a pair of pivoting and attachment cavities (75) thereupon, whereby said pair of jack screws provides the pivotal drive means for said pivot cup.
a pair of worm gears(91) each being attached to said drive shafts by an interference fit, said drive shafts supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of worm gears;
a pair of idler gears (95) each having two different teeth sets axially spaced thereupon, said pair of idler gears each being axially held upon said upper housing by a pin (113) extending downward therefrom, said pair of worm gears supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of idler gears;
a pair of screw gears (101) each having geared teeth surrounding a lower circular portion thereof, each of said pair of screw gears having a plurality of fingers (107) extending upwards therefrom, said plurality of fingers each having internally directed points (109) thereupon, said pair of screw gears being located in a pair of cavities within said lower housing, each of said pair of idler gears supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of screw gears;
a pair fo O-rings (111) placed around said plurality of fingers on each of said pair of screw gears for maintaining inward pressure of said plurality of fingers;
a pair of jack screws (51) each being externally threaded, the external threads of each providing an engagement surface thereupon with said plurality of fingers of said screw gear, said plurality of fingers supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of jack screws, said pair of jack screws each having a generally spherical top with a pin extending centrally therefrom, said pin being generally affixed perpendicular to each of said pair of jackscrews' axes; and said pivot cup rim having a pair of pivoting and attachment cavities (75) thereupon, whereby said pair of jack screws provides the pivotal drive means for said pivot cup.
5. The power pack of Claim 4 wherein:
said first housing has a pair of openings (49), each of said pair of openings has a wall peripherally extending upward therefrom, said walls have outwardly extending partial flanges thereupon;
said pair of jack screws each protrudes upward through said pair of openings in said upper housing;
a boot (31) has a pair of conical shapes extending upwards therefrom, each of said pair of conical shapes has passages in the top thereof, said pair of conical shapes each a lip extending generally perpendicular therebelow, said lips are connected by a substantially flat central portion; and said boot is retained to said first housing through a fit of said conical lip upon said first housing opening flanges, each of said pair of jack screws extends through each of said pair of passages within said boot.
said first housing has a pair of openings (49), each of said pair of openings has a wall peripherally extending upward therefrom, said walls have outwardly extending partial flanges thereupon;
said pair of jack screws each protrudes upward through said pair of openings in said upper housing;
a boot (31) has a pair of conical shapes extending upwards therefrom, each of said pair of conical shapes has passages in the top thereof, said pair of conical shapes each a lip extending generally perpendicular therebelow, said lips are connected by a substantially flat central portion; and said boot is retained to said first housing through a fit of said conical lip upon said first housing opening flanges, each of said pair of jack screws extends through each of said pair of passages within said boot.
6. The power pack of Claim 3 further comprising a retainer (27) attached to the top of said post, said retainer including a central ring portion (79) with a central openeing (81) located therewithin, said central ring portion has a plurality of relief slots (83) radiating outwards from the central ring portion's central opening, said central ring portion has a plurality of S-shaped spring arms (85) radiating outwards and away therefrom.
7. The power pack of Claim 3 wherein said pivot cup has an inside diameter of at least 35 millimeters.
8. A power pack (11) for an automotive exterior mirror comprising:
a mirror holder (81) for holding a mirror having a non-appearance backside, said mirror holder having a central portion which is substantially flat with ribs thereupon. said central portion being bordered by a lip outwardly extending therefrom;
a pivot cup (21) having a partially spherical center portion (63) circumferentially bordered by a substantially flat rim (65), said rim being in proximate contact with said non-appearance backside of said mirror holder, saidpivot cup being an independent member from said mirror holder;
a first housing (19) having a centrally located post (47) protruding upwards therefrom, said first housing having a partially spherical depression (45) centrally located therewithin, said first housing spherical depression partiallyextending below the top horizontal plane of a pair of motors (37), said first housing spherical depression protruding downwards into the space between said pair of motors, said first housing spherical depression serving to provide frictional contact with the lower surface of said pivot cup's spherical center portion, said post of said first housing extending through an aperture (67) within the center of said pivot cup's spherical portion;
a pivot sleeve (23) having a partially spherical shape, said pivot sleeve being frictionally located against the top of said pivot cup's central spherical portion, said pivot sleeve having an orifice (82) in the center thereof such that said first housing post extends therethrough;
a pivot retainer (25) having a partially spherically shaped lower surface, said pivot retainer being forcibly located against the top of said pivot sleeve, said pivot retainer having a void in the center thereof such that said first housing post extends therethrough;
means for retention (27) attached to the top of said first housing post, said retention means forcibly retaining said pivot retainer, said pivot sleeve, and said pivot cup against said first housing;
a second housing (17) having a substantially flat central surface with ribs upwardly extending therefrom, said second housing central surface being bordered by a raised side wall extending around the circumference thereof, said second housing being retained to said first housing by a means for attachment (141), said second housing having cavities for locating said pair of motors therewithin, the rearward end of each of said pair of motors being angled towardeach other and a drive shaft (89) extending from each of said pair of motors being displaced at an angle away from one another, a pair of worm gears(91) each being attached to said drive shafts by an interference fit, said drive shafts supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of worm gears;
a pair of idler gears (95) each having two different teeth sets axially spaced thereupon, said pair of idler gears each being axially held upon said first housing by a pin (113) extending downward therefrom, said pair of worm gears supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of idler gears;
a pair of screw gears (101) each having geared teeth surrounding a lower circular portion, each of said pair of screw gears having a plurality of fingers (107) extending upwards therefrom, said plurality of fingers each having internally directed points (109), said pair of screw gears being located in a pair of cavities within said second housing, each of said pair of idler gears supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of screw gears;
a pair of O-rings (111) placed around said plurality of fingers on each of said pair of screw gears for maintaining inward pressure of said plurality of fingers;
a pair of jack screws (51) each being externally threaded, the external threads of each providing an engagement surface with said plurality of fingers of said screw gear, said plurality of fingers supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of jack screws, said pair of jack screws each having a generally spherical top with a pin extending centrally therefrom, said pin being generallyaffixed perpendicular to each of said pair of jackscrews' axes;
said pivot cup rim having a pair of pivoting and attachment cavities (75), whereby said pair of jack screws provides a means for pivotally driving said pivot cup; and said drive means pivotally moving said pivot cup, said pivot cup sliding between said pivot sleeve and said first housing.
a mirror holder (81) for holding a mirror having a non-appearance backside, said mirror holder having a central portion which is substantially flat with ribs thereupon. said central portion being bordered by a lip outwardly extending therefrom;
a pivot cup (21) having a partially spherical center portion (63) circumferentially bordered by a substantially flat rim (65), said rim being in proximate contact with said non-appearance backside of said mirror holder, saidpivot cup being an independent member from said mirror holder;
a first housing (19) having a centrally located post (47) protruding upwards therefrom, said first housing having a partially spherical depression (45) centrally located therewithin, said first housing spherical depression partiallyextending below the top horizontal plane of a pair of motors (37), said first housing spherical depression protruding downwards into the space between said pair of motors, said first housing spherical depression serving to provide frictional contact with the lower surface of said pivot cup's spherical center portion, said post of said first housing extending through an aperture (67) within the center of said pivot cup's spherical portion;
a pivot sleeve (23) having a partially spherical shape, said pivot sleeve being frictionally located against the top of said pivot cup's central spherical portion, said pivot sleeve having an orifice (82) in the center thereof such that said first housing post extends therethrough;
a pivot retainer (25) having a partially spherically shaped lower surface, said pivot retainer being forcibly located against the top of said pivot sleeve, said pivot retainer having a void in the center thereof such that said first housing post extends therethrough;
means for retention (27) attached to the top of said first housing post, said retention means forcibly retaining said pivot retainer, said pivot sleeve, and said pivot cup against said first housing;
a second housing (17) having a substantially flat central surface with ribs upwardly extending therefrom, said second housing central surface being bordered by a raised side wall extending around the circumference thereof, said second housing being retained to said first housing by a means for attachment (141), said second housing having cavities for locating said pair of motors therewithin, the rearward end of each of said pair of motors being angled towardeach other and a drive shaft (89) extending from each of said pair of motors being displaced at an angle away from one another, a pair of worm gears(91) each being attached to said drive shafts by an interference fit, said drive shafts supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of worm gears;
a pair of idler gears (95) each having two different teeth sets axially spaced thereupon, said pair of idler gears each being axially held upon said first housing by a pin (113) extending downward therefrom, said pair of worm gears supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of idler gears;
a pair of screw gears (101) each having geared teeth surrounding a lower circular portion, each of said pair of screw gears having a plurality of fingers (107) extending upwards therefrom, said plurality of fingers each having internally directed points (109), said pair of screw gears being located in a pair of cavities within said second housing, each of said pair of idler gears supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of screw gears;
a pair of O-rings (111) placed around said plurality of fingers on each of said pair of screw gears for maintaining inward pressure of said plurality of fingers;
a pair of jack screws (51) each being externally threaded, the external threads of each providing an engagement surface with said plurality of fingers of said screw gear, said plurality of fingers supplying rotational movement to each of said pair of jack screws, said pair of jack screws each having a generally spherical top with a pin extending centrally therefrom, said pin being generallyaffixed perpendicular to each of said pair of jackscrews' axes;
said pivot cup rim having a pair of pivoting and attachment cavities (75), whereby said pair of jack screws provides a means for pivotally driving said pivot cup; and said drive means pivotally moving said pivot cup, said pivot cup sliding between said pivot sleeve and said first housing.
9. An apparatus which retains a pivot cup (21) to a post (47) in an automotive exterior mirror power pack (11), said apparatus comprising a central ring portion (79) with a central opening (81) located therewithin, said central ring portion having a plurality of relief slots (83) radiating outwards from the central ring portion's central opening, said central ring portion having a plurality of S-shaped spring arms (85) radiating outwards therefrom and away therefrom, said arms holding at least one rigid intermediate member having a partially sphericalsurface against said pivot cup.
10. A power pack (11) for an automotive exterior mirror comprising:
a mirror holder (81) having a first surface adjacent to a mirror (13) and a backside oppositely disposed therefrom, said central portion of said backside being bordered by a lip outwardly extending substantially perpendiculartherefrom for substantially surrounding the edges of said mirror; and a pivot cup (21) having a partially spherical center portion (63) circumferentially bordered by a substantially flat rim (65), said rim being in snap fit engagement with said backside of said mirror holder, a continuous and unbroken centerline surface of said mirror holder disposed between said mirror and said partially spherical center portion of said pivot cup, said pivot cup being an independent member from said mirror holder, wherein said mirror holder can be disassembled from said pivot cup for repair.
a mirror holder (81) having a first surface adjacent to a mirror (13) and a backside oppositely disposed therefrom, said central portion of said backside being bordered by a lip outwardly extending substantially perpendiculartherefrom for substantially surrounding the edges of said mirror; and a pivot cup (21) having a partially spherical center portion (63) circumferentially bordered by a substantially flat rim (65), said rim being in snap fit engagement with said backside of said mirror holder, a continuous and unbroken centerline surface of said mirror holder disposed between said mirror and said partially spherical center portion of said pivot cup, said pivot cup being an independent member from said mirror holder, wherein said mirror holder can be disassembled from said pivot cup for repair.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/060,268 US5363246A (en) | 1993-05-12 | 1993-05-12 | Power pack for an automotive exterior mirror assembly |
| US060,268 | 1993-05-12 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2159816A1 true CA2159816A1 (en) | 1994-11-24 |
Family
ID=22028439
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002159816A Abandoned CA2159816A1 (en) | 1993-05-12 | 1994-03-08 | Power pack for an automotive exterior mirror assembly |
Country Status (9)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (4) | US5363246A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0696969B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH08510195A (en) |
| KR (1) | KR100312301B1 (en) |
| AT (1) | ATE199076T1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU675527B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2159816A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE69426670T2 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1994026557A1 (en) |
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| DE102011101534B4 (en) * | 2011-05-14 | 2014-12-11 | Oechsler Aktiengesellschaft | Adjusting device for a pivotable carrier plate, in particular for receiving a motor vehicle mirror |
| WO2018157002A1 (en) | 2017-02-23 | 2018-08-30 | Munchkin, Inc. | Automobile mirror with integrated fan |
| DE202019100579U1 (en) * | 2019-01-31 | 2019-02-25 | Mci (Mirror Controls International) Netherlands B.V. | Sichteinstellmechanismus |
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-
1993
- 1993-05-12 US US08/060,268 patent/US5363246A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1994
- 1994-03-08 DE DE69426670T patent/DE69426670T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1994-03-08 JP JP6525395A patent/JPH08510195A/en not_active Ceased
- 1994-03-08 KR KR1019950704191A patent/KR100312301B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1994-03-08 EP EP94912189A patent/EP0696969B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1994-03-08 CA CA002159816A patent/CA2159816A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1994-03-08 AU AU64438/94A patent/AU675527B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1994-03-08 AT AT94912189T patent/ATE199076T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1994-03-08 WO PCT/US1994/002473 patent/WO1994026557A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 1994-10-04 US US08/317,720 patent/US5546240A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1994-10-26 US US08/329,471 patent/US5539584A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1995
- 1995-05-25 US US08/450,852 patent/US5497275A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US5363246A (en) | 1994-11-08 |
| DE69426670D1 (en) | 2001-03-15 |
| KR960700919A (en) | 1996-02-24 |
| US5546240A (en) | 1996-08-13 |
| AU6443894A (en) | 1994-12-12 |
| KR100312301B1 (en) | 2001-12-28 |
| JPH08510195A (en) | 1996-10-29 |
| EP0696969A1 (en) | 1996-02-21 |
| EP0696969B1 (en) | 2001-02-07 |
| ATE199076T1 (en) | 2001-02-15 |
| US5539584A (en) | 1996-07-23 |
| US5497275A (en) | 1996-03-05 |
| DE69426670T2 (en) | 2001-05-23 |
| WO1994026557A1 (en) | 1994-11-24 |
| AU675527B2 (en) | 1997-02-06 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |