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01/04/2007
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Engineers at Eaton Automotive Systems are gaining a reputation for ingenious mechanisms, writes Roger Bishop.
Readers of our November issue will recall our description of a failsafe fuel filler system for both diesel and gasoline powered vehicles that prevents users from using the wrong fuel.
Now they have come up with an elegantly simple system that allows door-mounted electrically powered mirrors to fold flat against the vehicle.
Styling of mirror and door panel often limits the folding angle, forcing manufacturers – for example Audi for the A8 and BMW for the 7 Series – to design systems that angle the mirror downwards as they fold. This is not particularly desirable because it makes the actuators complex and therefore expensive.
On lesser cars with folding mirrors the designers accept that the depth of the mirror assembly close to the hinge will prevent the assembly from folding flat, thereby leaving them vulnerable to damage.
Eaton’s patented Eccentric Powerfold concept solves the problem. Incorporated into the rotating powered hinge mechanism is a simple linear geared rack. As the mirror rotates inwards it also progresses along the short rack, moving the bulky end of the mirror assembly just far enough from the door to provide the space for it to fold completely flat.
Eaton says the solution results in a particularly robust assembly, allows for 100% folding, gives stylists and designers increased freedom and addresses wind noise and vibration issues.
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Author
Roger Bishop
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