Mirror with base bracket having integrally-molded reinforcement
First Claim
Patent Images
1. An exterior vehicle mirror system comprising:
- a base having a mounting portion for mounting the mirror system to a vehicle;
a reflective element assembly for providing an operator of the vehicle with a rearward view;
a connection pivotally mounting the reflective element assembly to the base; and
a first reinforcing element associated with the base and vertically spaced from a second reinforcing element associated with the reflective element assembly, the first reinforcing element comprising a surface, in abutment with the base to resist deflection of the base due to forces imposed on the reflective element assembly, the first and second reinforcing elements being integrally molded with the base and the reflective element assembly in cooperative relationship with the connection to distribute at least one of stresses and forces imposed on the vehicle mirror system to the base along a stress path to enhance the strength of the connection.
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Abstract
A pivoting exterior rearview mirror assembly comprises a mirror housing, a base, a support frame, a pivot assembly, and associated elements comprised primarily of a plastic or polymeric material. The pivot assembly is provided with a pivot reinforcement made of a relatively high-strength material, such as steel. The base is provided with a cantilever reinforcement made of a relatively high-strength material, such as steel. The reinforcing steel increases the load carrying capability of the plastic and reduces the potential material failure of unreinforced plastic.
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Citations
15 Claims
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1. An exterior vehicle mirror system comprising:
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a base having a mounting portion for mounting the mirror system to a vehicle; a reflective element assembly for providing an operator of the vehicle with a rearward view; a connection pivotally mounting the reflective element assembly to the base; and a first reinforcing element associated with the base and vertically spaced from a second reinforcing element associated with the reflective element assembly, the first reinforcing element comprising a surface, in abutment with the base to resist deflection of the base due to forces imposed on the reflective element assembly, the first and second reinforcing elements being integrally molded with the base and the reflective element assembly in cooperative relationship with the connection to distribute at least one of stresses and forces imposed on the vehicle mirror system to the base along a stress path to enhance the strength of the connection. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
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Specification