DESC:ANTI-THEFT REAR VIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLY
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202421042718 filed on 01/06/2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure generally relates to a mirror assembly of a vehicle. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to an anti-theft rear view mirror assembly.
BACKGROUND
Recently, there has been a rapid development in the automotive technologies. The two-wheeler automobiles are particularly popular due to their affordability and lower cost of running. Furthermore, the two-wheeler vehicles comprises many components that may be removed from the vehicle in an unauthorized manner without requiring any special tool.
Generally, most of the two-wheelers especially motorcycles and scooters use externally mounted rear-view mirrors that are attached to the handlebar, either via a stem inserted into a mirror holder or clamped to a bracket. The mirror mounting arrangement in current two-wheeler designs presents several practical and security-related challenges. While the mounting design allows for ease of adjustability and replacement, the mirror arrangement also exposes the mirrors to a higher risk of theft, damage, and instability due to the lack of integrated security and robustness in the mounting structure. One of the key problems with the current setup is the ease of disassembly. Most mirrors may be unscrewed with a common spanner or wrench within seconds, making the mirror setup an easy target for theft, especially in urban and high-traffic parking environments. Additionally, many of the OEM mirror mounts are not standardized across models or manufacturers which may arises the problem with replacement of the parts which are often not readily interchangeable. These may lead to a dependency on aftermarket parts, which often lack the structural integrity or design fit of original equipment. Such mirrors may become loose over time due to vibrations, posing a safety risk as well as increasing the chances of mirror detachment and loss. Moreover, mirror stems made of low-grade metal are susceptible to bending or snapping during minor impacts or even during parking mishaps, making them not only theft-prone but also fragile. Furthermore, some of the designs of the mirror assembly makes difficult for users to adjust or tighten the mirrors by themselves, leads to persistent alignment issues and reduced rear visibility over time, especially when mirrors become loose due to frequent usage or minor impacts.
Therefore, there is a need to provide an improved mirror mounting arrangement to overcome one or more problems associated as set forth above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide an anti-theft mirror assembly for a vehicle.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an anti-theft mirror assembly. The anti-theft mirror assembly comprises a rear-view mirror module, a mirror holder assembly and at least one lock screw configured to secure the rear-view mirror module inside the mirror holder assembly.
The present disclosure provides the anti-theft rear-view mirror assembly. The anti-theft mirror assembly is advantageous in terms of security, durability, and reliability. Beneficially, the anti-theft mirror assembly enhances the security of the rear-view mirror and prevents unauthorized removal or theft. Beneficially, the anti-theft mirror assembly ensures the mirror remains firmly in place even under vibration or tampering. Moreover, the anti-theft mirror assembly improves the theft resistance and also allows for selective adjustment of the mirror position. Furthermore, use of the anti-theft mirror assembly simplifies the manufacturing, maintenance, and potential part replacements, while also offering customization flexibility. Overall, the anti-theft mirror assembly significantly improves safety, durability, and ease of use, making the mirror assembly a valuable addition to vehicle mirror systems.
Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an anti-theft rear-view mirror assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a rear-view mirror module, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a rear-view mirror stem tightened to the mirror holder assembly, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of an anti-theft mirror assembly and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
As used herein, the terms “vehicle” refers to a two-wheeled and three-wheeled motorized transport systems such as motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, auto-rickshaws, and similar personal or commercial conveyances, which are designed to be operated on roads and are equipped with at least one rear-view mirror for aiding the rider or driver in observing rearward traffic conditions. The vehicle may include, but is not limited to ICE vehicle, electric vehicle, hybrid vehicle, etc.
As used herein, the term “anti-theft mirror assembly” and “mirror assembly” are used interchangeably and refer to a structural arrangement of components configured to prevent unauthorized removal or theft of a vehicle's rear-view mirror. The assembly comprises a rear-view mirror module, a mirror holder assembly, and at least one lock screw.
As used herein, the term “rear-view mirror module” and “mirror module” are used interchangeably and refer to an integrated sub-assembly that comprises a reflective mirror element and a supporting structure, such as a mirror stem, which facilitates the mirror mounting and positional adjustment.
As used herein, the term “mirror holder assembly” and “holder assembly” are used interchangeably and refer to a structural component configured to receive, support, and secure a rear-view mirror module, including the associated stem of mirror. The mirror holder assembly may comprise one or more interconnected parts and may be of a modular or unitary construction. The mirror holder assembly is designed to accommodate the insertion of the rear-view mirror stem and facilitate the secure retention through mechanical fastening means such as threads, lock screws, or assembly screws.
As used herein, the term “at least one lock screw” and “lock screw” are used interchangeably and refer to one or more mechanical fasteners configured to be inserted into the mirror holder assembly in such a manner that the screws engage with a cut section formed on the rear-view mirror stem.
As used herein, the term “rear-view mirror” refers to a reflective device configured to provide the rider or driver with a view of the area behind the vehicle. The rear-view mirror typically includes a reflective surface enclosed within a protective casing or frame and is mounted on a support structure, such as a mirror stem, which is adapted for attachment to a portion of the vehicle. The rear-view mirror may be of a planar or convex type and is positioned and oriented to improve rearward visibility and enhance the situational awareness and safety of the vehicle operator.
As used herein, the term “rear-view mirror stem” and “mirror stem” are used interchangeably and refer to an elongated structural member that mechanically connects the rear-view mirror to the mirror holder assembly. The rear-view mirror stem serves as a support element and facilitates the mounting and positioning of the rear-view mirror relative to the vehicle. The mirror stem typically comprises a first end attached to or integrated with the rear-view mirror and a second end configured to be received and secured within the mirror holder assembly.
As used herein, the term “threaded portion” refers to a portion of the rear-view mirror stem that comprises external threads formed along the surface. The threads are configured to engage with corresponding internal threads provided within the mirror holder assembly, enables the rear-view mirror stem to be securely fastened by a screwing or tightening action. The threaded portion facilitates axial positioning and mechanical coupling of the mirror stem within the mirror holder assembly and may also contribute to the adjustability or locking features of the mirror assembly.
As used herein, the term “cut section” refers to a predefined recessed, notched, flattened, or slotted portion formed on the stem of the rear-view mirror. The cut section is specifically configured to receive the tip of a lock screw such that, when the lock screw is tightened, the lock screw engages with the cut section to prevent rotational or axial movement of the mirror stem within the mirror holder assembly. The cut section may be formed by machining, casting, or any suitable manufacturing process and is dimensioned to allow secure locking engagement without damaging the structural integrity of the mirror stem.
As used herein, the term “selective movement” refers to the desired adjustment of the rear-view mirror stem within the mirror holder assembly to achieve a desired orientation or viewing angle of the rear-view mirror, wherein such movement is allowed only upon loosening or partial disengagement of the at least one lock screw and is restricted or locked upon tightening of the same.
As used herein, the term “modular mirror holder assembly” refers to a flexible and adaptable structural component designed to support and secure a rear-view mirror module within a vehicle. The modular mirror holder assembly is composed of interconnecting parts or subcomponents that can be easily assembled, disassembled, or replaced, allowing for customization or modification based on specific design requirements.
As used herein, the term “at least one assembly screw” and “assembly screw” are used interchangeably and refer to a fastening element used to securely join or assemble the components of the modular mirror holder assembly. The assembly screw is designed to engage with pre-configured openings or threads in the modular parts of the holder assembly, providing a firm connection between those parts.
Figure 1, in accordance with an embodiment describes an anti-theft mirror assembly 100. The anti-theft mirror assembly 100 comprises a rear-view mirror module 102, a mirror holder assembly 104 and at least one lock screw 106 configured to secure the rear-view mirror module 102 inside the mirror holder assembly 104.
The present disclosure provides the anti-theft mirror assembly 100. The anti-theft mirror assembly 100 as disclosed by present disclosure is advantageous in terms of security, modularity, and adjustability of a rear-view mirror 108. Beneficially, the inclusion of the at least one lock screw 106 that engages with a designed cut section 114 on the mirror stem ensures a secure locking mechanism that prevents unauthorized removal or theft of the rear-view mirror module 102 and restricts the unintentional loosening of the mirror stem 110 from the mirror holder assembly. Furthermore, the threaded portion 112 of the mirror stem 110, when combined with the lock screw 106 tightened through the cut section 114 significantly creates a double-layered locking system that increases resistance to tampering and vibrations during vehicle motion. Furthermore, the mirror assembly 100 beneficially allows the selective movement and positional adjustment of the rear-view mirror module 102, thereby provides the ergonomic and visibility benefits to the rider without compromising the anti-theft functionality. Furthermore, the modular mirror holder assembly, assembled using at least one assembly screw 116 which ensures the ease of manufacturing, replacement, and maintenance, thereby offers the long-term cost efficiency and operational convenience. Overall, the anti-theft mirror assembly 100 strikes a balance between security, user flexibility, and modularity, which makes the highly suitable for two-wheelers and other vehicles where mirror theft or tampering is a frequent issue.
In an embodiment, the rear-view mirror module 102 comprises a rear-view mirror 108 and a rear-view mirror stem 110. The rear-view mirror 108 may be configured to provide the rider or driver with a clear view of the rear environment during vehicle operation. The rear-view mirror stem 110 extends from the rear-view mirror 108 and serves as a structural support that connects the rear-view mirror 108 to the vehicle via the mirror holder assembly 104.
In an embodiment, the mirror holder assembly 104 is configured to receive and secure the rear-view mirror stem 110. The internal structure or geometry of the mirror holder assembly 104 may include a mirror stem receiving cavity or bore, which is dimensioned to match the profile of the mirror stem 110. Beneficially, the mirror assembly 100 ensures a precise and stable fit between the mirror stem 110 and the mirror holder assembly 104 which facilitates the secure engagement.
Figure 2, describes the rear-view mirror stem 110 comprises a threaded portion 112 and a cut section 114. Furthermore, the threaded portion 112 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 is tightened inside the mirror holder assembly 104. The threaded portion 112 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 may be inserted into and tightened inside the mirror holder assembly 104, thereby provides a primary means of mechanical fixation. Beneficially, the mirror stem configuration enables an additional locking mechanism that prevents unintentional loosening or unauthorized removal of the mirror module 102 from the mirror holder assembly 104.
Figure 3, describes the at least one lock screw 106 is tightened through the cut section 114 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 to secure the rear-view mirror module 102 inside the mirror holder assembly 104. Furthermore, the tightening of the at least one lock screw 106 through the cut section 114 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 restricts loosening of the threaded portion 112 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 from the mirror holder assembly 104. The lock screw 106 may be positioned in such a manner that the lock screw 106 may be tightened through the cut section 114 of the rear-view mirror stem 110. When the lock screw 106 may be fastened, the lock screw 106 engages with the cut section 114, thereby exerting a radial force that immobilizes the mirror stem 110 inside the mirror holder assembly 104. Beneficially, the mirror assembly 100 prevents rotation or loosening of the threaded portion 112, especially under the conditions such as vibration or attempted unauthorized removal. Furthermore, the tightening of the lock screw 106 through the cut section 114 restricts the loosening or unthreading of the rear-view mirror stem 110 from the mirror holder assembly 104, thereby providing a tamper-resistant and secure attachment of the rear-view mirror module 102 to the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the at least one lock screw 106 allows selective movement of the rear-view mirror stem 110 inside the mirror holder assembly 104 for adjustment of the rear-view mirror 108. The lock screw 106 may be strategically positioned such that, when loosened, the lock screw 106 permits the controlled sliding or rotational movement of the mirror stem 110 inside the holder assembly 104. Beneficially, the mirror configuration enables a user to adjust the orientation or angle of the rear-view mirror 108 according to individual preference or line-of-sight requirements. Once the desired position of the mirror 108 is achieved, the lock screw 106 may be tightened to secure the mirror stem 110 in place, thereby maintaining the adjusted position without further movement during vehicle operation.
In an embodiment, the mirror holder assembly 104 is a modular mirror holder assembly. Furthermore, the mirror assembly 100 comprises at least one assembly screw 116 configured to assemble the modular mirror holder assembly. The modular configuration of the mirror assembly 100 allows for the mirror holder assembly 104 to be manufactured as the separate parts that may be assembled, thereby offering flexibility in design and compatibility with various rear-view mirror modules 102. Additionally, the mirror assembly 100 further configured to assemble the modular parts of the mirror holder assembly 104 via the at least one assembly screw 116. Beneficially, the use of such assembly screws 116 ensures the structural integrity of the holder assembly 104 while allowing for modular adjustments or part replacements when required.
In an embodiment, the anti-theft mirror assembly 100 comprises the rear-view mirror module 102, the mirror holder assembly 104 and the at least one lock screw 106 configured to secure the rear-view mirror module 102 inside the mirror holder assembly 104. Furthermore, the rear-view mirror module 102 comprises the rear-view mirror 108 and the rear-view mirror stem 110. Furthermore, the mirror holder assembly 104 is configured to receive and secure the rear-view mirror stem 110. Furthermore, the rear-view mirror stem 110 comprises the threaded portion 112 and the cut section 114. Furthermore, the threaded portion 112 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 is tightened inside the mirror holder assembly 104. Furthermore, the at least one lock screw 106 is tightened through the cut section 114 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 to secure the rear-view mirror module 102 inside the mirror holder assembly 104. Furthermore, the tightening of the at least one lock screw 106 through the cut section 114 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 restricts loosening of the threaded portion 112 of the rear-view mirror stem 110 from the mirror holder assembly 104. Furthermore, the at least one lock screw 106 allows selective movement of the rear-view mirror stem 110 inside the mirror holder assembly 104 for adjustment of the rear-view mirror 108. Furthermore, the mirror holder assembly 104 is the modular mirror holder assembly. Furthermore, the mirror assembly 100 comprises the at least one assembly screw 116 configured to assemble the modular mirror holder assembly.
In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms “disposed,” “mounted,” and “connected” are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.
Modifications to embodiments and combination of different embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. An anti-theft mirror assembly (100), wherein the mirror assembly (100) comprises:
- a rear-view mirror module (102);
- a mirror holder assembly (104); and
- at least one lock screw (106) configured to secure the rear-view mirror module (102) inside the mirror holder assembly (104).
2. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear-view mirror module (102) comprises a rear-view mirror (108) and a rear-view mirror stem (110).
3. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the mirror holder assembly (104) is configured to receive and secure the rear-view mirror stem (110).
4. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the rear-view mirror stem (110) comprises a threaded portion (112) and a cut section (114).
5. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the threaded portion (112) of the rear-view mirror stem (110) is tightened inside the mirror holder assembly (104).
6. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one lock screw (106) is tightened through the cut section (114) of the rear-view mirror stem (110) to secure the rear-view mirror module (102) inside the mirror holder assembly (104).
7. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the tightening of the at least one lock screw (106) through the cut section (114) of the rear-view mirror stem (110) restricts loosening of the threaded portion (112) of the rear-view mirror stem (110) from the mirror holder assembly (104).
8. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one lock screw (106) allows selective movement of the rear-view mirror stem (110) inside the mirror holder assembly (104) for adjustment of the rear-view mirror (108).
9. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mirror holder assembly (104) is a modular mirror holder assembly.
10. The mirror assembly (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the mirror assembly (100) comprises at least one assembly screw (116) configured to assemble the modular mirror holder assembly.