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Vehicle mirror system with reduced friction actuation and movement

  • US 7,314,285 B2
  • Filed: 08/28/2006
  • Issued: 01/01/2008
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/14/2004
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A mirror assembly for use on a motor vehicle comprising:

  • a reflective element assembly for providing an external rearward reflective view to an operator of the motor vehicle;

    a base adapted to be mounted to the vehicle;

    a support arm assembly having a first end and a second end, the first end being movably attached to the base between a folded position and an unfolded position, the second end being mounted to the reflective element assembly; and

    a reduced-friction detent assembly interposed between the first end of the support arm assembly and the base, the reduced-friction detent assembly comprising;

    at least one bearing selectively mounted in one of an engaged position and a disengaged position;

    a first plate rotatably coupled to the base and having at least one bearing seat;

    a second plate comprising at least one ball aperture and coupled to the first plate for unitary movement therewith in the engaged position;

    a retainer coupled to the second plate comprising at least one housing aligned with the at least one ball aperture; and

    at least one bearing set plate received in the at least one housing and resiliently biased toward the second plate;

    wherein the support arm assembly moves between the folded and unfolded positions in the disengaged position with less friction than when the at least one bearing is in the engaged position.

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