Taking an exterior rearview mirror with electric folding, electric adjustment, and an integrated turn signal as an example, the main structure is illustrated in the figure. Typical sub-components include the mirror bezel, mirror glass, heating element, backing plate, adjustment motor, base plate, secondary housing, turn signal, decorative cover, folding motor, protective cover plate, mounting bracket, housing, gasket, and wiring harness.
Exterior rearview mirrors are generally mounted in one of two locations: the window frame area or the outer door panel (as shown in the figure). When mounted in the window frame area, the mirror must interface with a complex array of surrounding components-such as the upper trim strip, outer beltline weatherstrip, and glass guide rail. Particular attention must be paid to the interface between the mirror and the upper trim strip; the cross-sectional structure is shown below. By inserting the flange of the mirror housing beneath the upper trim strip, the design ensures a proper seal (preventing wind noise) and resolves common issues regarding uneven gaps at the interface.
Cross-section of the interface between the exterior rearview mirror and the upper trim strip
The mounting layout for exterior rearview mirrors typically employs a "one-surface, two-pin, three-mounting-point" positioning and fixation method. "One-surface, two-pin" refers to a positioning scheme that uses a large flat surface and two holes perpendicular to that surface as references, combined with three mounting points for fastening; the spacing between these mounting points must be sufficient to ensure installation stability. During the design phase, the mounting configuration can be flexibly adapted based on the space allocated in the vehicle's sheet metal. Fastener selection requires a comprehensive assessment of factors such as installation space, strength grade, tightening torque, and thread engagement length to ensure the mounting screws meet all assembly requirements.