Connection device for a vehicle wiper system

Abstract

The invention relates to a connecting device (130) for a wiper system (100) for wiping a glass surface of a vehicle, the wiper system (100) comprising at least one wiper (110) designed to wipe the glass surface, at least one wiper arm (120) designed to drive the wiper (110) in rotation, and a connecting device (130) configured to connect the wiper (110) to the wiper arm (120), the connecting device (130) comprising at least one connector (140) configured to be fixed to the wiper (110) and at least one adapter (150) mounted to have the ability to pivot on the connector (140), the wiper arm (120) extending between a first end (121) designed to be connected to a motor carried by the vehicle and a second end (122) designed to be fixed to the adapter (150), characterized in that the adapter (150) and the connector (140) together define a housing (170) having a closed cross section, the housing being designed to receive at least one portion of the second end (122) of the wiper arm (120) and the at least one portion of the second end (122) of the wiper arm (120) being configured to facilitate the retention of the adapter (150) on the connector (140).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to wiper systems for vehicles, particularly motor vehicles. More specifically, the present invention relates to connection devices for these wiper systems. Background Technology

[0002] Motor vehicles are typically equipped with a wiper system for wiping their glass surfaces, especially their windshields. Such a wiper system typically includes at least one wiper for wiping the glass surface, a wiper arm for driving the wiper to rotate, and a connecting device for connecting the wiper arm to the wiper.

[0003] The connecting device includes at least one connector fixed to the wiper and at least one adapter mounted to rotate on the connector. The wiper arm itself extends between a first end and a second end, the wiper arm being connected via the first end to a motor carried by the vehicle, which allows the wiper arm to be driven to rotate, and the wiper arm being connected via the second end to the connecting device, more specifically, to the adapter connected to the connecting device.

[0004] Currently, there are different types of connections between the wiper arm and the adapter. In particular, it is known to make the second end of the wiper arm in the form of a hook, the plane inscribed by the radius of curvature of which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the glass surface to be wiped.

[0005] The drawback of the known connection devices is the need for an assembly to hold the adapter on the connector, ensuring a reliable connection between the two components, and therefore also between the wiper arm and the wiper, while allowing the adapter to pivot relative to the connector. This connection must be robust enough to prevent any accidental separation of these components, which could pose a danger to the vehicle user should such separation occur, for example, during wiping.

[0006] Furthermore, a drawback of using wiper arms with hooks as described above lies in the dimensions of these hooks, particularly their height—that is, their dimensions along the direction perpendicular to the plane extending from the glass surface to be wiped. Additionally, this shape results in a relatively large distance between the glass surface and the wiper arm, which presents at least an aesthetic problem and also obstructs airflow when the vehicle, including the glass surface, is moving. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention falls within this scope by proposing a connection device designed for a wiper system in which the wiper arm is improved compared to existing solutions, the connection device enabling the improved wiper arm to be connected to the corresponding wiper.

[0008] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention relates to a connection device for wiping the surface of a vehicle windshield wiper system, for connecting a wiper to a wiper arm configured to drive the wiper to rotate, the connection device including at least one connector configured to be fixed to the wiper and at least one adapter mounted to pivot on the connector, the connector including a base and a body, the base forming a portion of the connector configured to fix the connector to the wiper, the body forming a vertical protrusion for engaging with the adapter to form the connection device, the adapter and the connector together defining a receiving portion having a closed cross-section, the receiving portion being designed to receive at least a portion of a second end of the wiper arm.

[0009] According to the invention, the connecting device includes a groove disposed in the connector, the groove helping to define a receiving portion having a closed cross-section, the receiving portion being configured to receive at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm, the groove being recessed into the thickness of the connector body.

[0010] According to the invention, the receiving portion having a closed cross-section, configured to accommodate at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm, has a closed cross-section as seen in the vertical plane. Therefore, at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm is positioned within a volume defined between the connector and the adapter to prevent relative movement of the adapter relative to the connector, and more specifically, to prevent relative movement of the adapter relative to the connector along the pivot axis of the adapter relative to the connector. Advantageously, this ensures a connection between the adapter and the connector without requiring additional components; however, such a connection allows at least one degree of freedom between the connector and the adapter.

[0011] According to the invention, a groove is provided in the connector, which helps to define a receiving portion having a closed cross-section, the receiving portion being configured to receive at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm. In other words, the receiving portion having a closed cross-section, configured to receive at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm, is created by structural modifications of the connector and adapter compared to known connectors and adapters.

[0012] According to an optional feature of the invention, the connecting means includes means for pivoting the adapter relative to the connector. For example, these pivoting means include at least one lug disposed on one of the adapter and the connector, and at least one hole disposed on the other of the adapter and the connector, the lug being received in the hole.

[0013] According to one feature of the invention, the adapter includes at least one first sidewall and at least one second sidewall connected together by at least one upper wall, the first sidewall, the second sidewall and the upper wall defining an internal space in the adapter, in which at least a portion of the connector is accommodated.

[0014] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, at least one tab extends from the upper wall of the adapter into the internal space of the adapter and extends in a direction transverse to the main extension plane of the upper wall. The at least one tab supports the at least one lug and is separate from the sidewall of the adapter. Advantageously, the tab extends perpendicular to the main extension plane of the upper wall. According to this exemplary embodiment, the at least one tab extends at least partially in a recess provided in the connector, and the bottom of the recess helps define a receiving portion having a closed cross-section, the receiving portion being configured to receive at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm. In other words, the at least one tab extends at least partially in a receiving portion having a closed cross-section, the receiving portion being configured to receive at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm, such that this portion of the second end of the wiper arm prevents the tab from moving and thus also prevents the lug supported by the tab from disengaging from the hole receiving the lug. Thus, the portion of the second end of the wiper arm received in the receiving portion having a closed cross-section ensures the connection generated between the adapter and the connector.

[0015] Optionally, the at least one tab may include at least one rod extending from the tab in a direction transverse to the main extension direction of the tab, wherein at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm received in a receiving portion having a closed cross-section is arranged to support against the rod. Advantageously, the rod extends perpendicular to the main extension direction of the tab that supports it. As can be understood from the foregoing, the rod thus extends in the receiving portion having a closed cross-section defined between the connector and the adapter, such that at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm can be supported on the rod. For example, the at least one tab may have an inner surface facing the internal space in the adapter and away from the outer surface of the tab, the outer surface supporting the at least one lug, and the rod disposed on the inner surface. Thus, at least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm received in the receiving portion having a closed cross-section can be arranged to support against the rod, and thus indirectly against the inner surface, thereby allowing the lug disposed on the outer surface of the tab to be held in the hole receiving the lug.

[0016] According to one exemplary embodiment of the invention, the at least one tab may be a first tab supporting the rod and a first lug received in a first hole in the connector, and the at least one tab may be a second tab supporting a second lug received in a second hole in the connector and may extend from the upper wall of the adapter in a direction transverse to the main extension plane of the upper wall. At least a portion of the second end of the wiper arm received in the receiving portion having a closed cross-section is configured to contact the first tab (or, if necessary, via the rod) and the second tab. For example, both the first and second tabs may extend perpendicular to the main extension plane of the upper wall of the adapter, meaning that the first and second tabs then extend along two main directions parallel to each other.

[0017] For example, the first tab is as described above, and the second tab similarly includes an outer surface supporting the second lug and an inner surface abutting the portion of the second end of the wiper arm housed in the receiving portion having a closed cross-section. Therefore, this portion of the second end of the wiper arm is configured to hold the first lug in the first hole by being indirectly supported on the first tab via the rod, and to hold the second lug in the second hole by being indirectly supported on the inner surface of the second tab. Thus, the pivoting mechanism can remain cooperative, ensuring optimal operation of the wiper system including the connecting device according to the invention.

[0018] It should be understood that the terms "first protrusion" and "second protrusion" are used only to make the description easier to understand, and the rod may be provided on the second protrusion without departing from the invention.

[0019] As can be seen from the foregoing, according to this exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the receiving portion having a closed cross-section, which is configured to receive a portion of the second end of the wiper arm, also at least partially receives the first tab and the second tab that support the first and second lugs.

[0020] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the at least one lug that facilitates the formation of a means for pivoting the adapter relative to the connector may be disposed on one of the sidewalls of the adapter. Optionally, at least one first lug may be disposed on a first sidewall, and a second lug may be disposed on a second sidewall, the first lug being received in a first hole in the connector, and the second lug being received in a second hole in the connector. For example, at least the first hole may be disposed in the wall of the connector, which helps to define a recess disposed in the connector. Advantageously, both the first hole and the second hole are disposed in the wall of the connector that defines the recess. As for the first lug and the second lug themselves, they may be disposed, for example, on the inner surface of the adapter sidewall, that is, on the surface of these walls facing the internal space in the adapter. It should be understood that these are merely exemplary embodiments and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0021] According to one exemplary embodiment of the invention, the adapter includes at least one coupling tongue designed to receive a portion of a wiper arm, the coupling tongue extending between a first end and a second free end, the coupling tongue being secured to the adapter via the first end.

[0022] In other words, the coupling tongue is configured to secure the second end of the wiper arm to the adapter.

[0023] For example, the coupling tongue extends primarily along a direction parallel to the main extension axis of the wiper, away from the front of the connecting device. The coupling tongue extends between a first end and a second free end, and is secured to the adapter via the first end. The second free end may advantageously include at least one retaining member for holding the first segment of the wiper arm in place. It should be understood that this is merely an exemplary embodiment, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the at least one retaining member may be disposed between the first and second ends of the coupling tongue.

[0024] The present invention also relates to a vehicle wiper system comprising at least one wiper designed for wiping the surface of a vehicle glass, at least one wiper arm designed for driving the wiper to rotate, and at least one connection device as described above, the connection device being designed for connecting the wiper to the wiper arm.

[0025] According to one feature of this exemplary embodiment, a wiper arm extends between a first end and a second end, the first end being designed to connect to a motor carried by the vehicle, and the second end being designed to be fixed to an adapter. The second end of the wiper arm has a hook shape, at least a portion of which is received in a receiving portion having a closed cross-section, and this at least a portion of the hook helps to retain the adapter on the connector. Advantageously, the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm does not extend entirely around the adapter, but rather engages within the space of the receiving portion having a closed cross-section. As described above, this ensures a connection between the adapter and the connector without requiring additional components; however, this connection allows for at least one degree of freedom between the connector and the adapter.

[0026] According to one feature of the invention, the wiper arm is configured to pivot about a main axis of rotation, and the radius of curvature of the wiper arm hook is inscribed in a plane perpendicular to the main axis of rotation of the wiper arm. In other words, the profile of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm is inscribed in a plane perpendicular to the main axis of rotation of the wiper arm, which is also parallel or substantially parallel to the glass surface of the vehicle equipped with the wiper system according to the invention. Advantageously, this radius of curvature allows for limiting the vertical dimension of the connecting device that at least partially accommodates the hook, that is, the dimension along the direction parallel to the main axis of rotation of the wiper arm. This radius of curvature also allows for the release of the back side of the connecting device, that is, not covering the back side of the connecting device, thereby allowing for, for example, the establishment of a connection to a conduit for conveying cleaning fluid. The "back side of the connecting device" is understood to be the face of the connecting device facing the first end of the wiper arm.

[0027] The hook forming the second end of the wiper arm can be U-shaped, comprising at least one first segment and at least one second segment connected together by a base. The at least one first segment forms a continuation of the wiper arm body, and the at least one second segment forms the free end of the hook. At least a portion of the wiper arm hook housed in the receiving portion having a closed cross-section is formed at least by the second segment of the hook. In other words, the second segment of the hook forms part of the hook, which helps to retain the adapter on the connector. The wiper arm body extends between the first segment of the U-shape adopted by the wiper arm hook and the first end of the wiper arm, which is designed to connect to a motor carried by the vehicle.

[0028] According to one feature of the invention, the connecting device extends primarily between a front and a back side, the front side facing away from the first end of the wiper arm, and the U-shaped base of the wiper arm hook is arranged near the front side of the connecting device. Advantageously, the receiving portion having a closed cross-section that accommodates the second segment of the hook can open to the front side of the connecting device. Therefore, this arrangement allows the hook to be inserted into the connecting device through the front side, thereby facilitating the mounting of the wiper arm onto the adapter.

[0029] According to one feature of the invention, the internal space of the adapter can accommodate at least the second section of the wiper arm hook, and the second sidewall of the adapter is clamped, or in other words, clamped between the connector and the first section of the wiper arm hook.

[0030] As described above, the second segment of the wiper arm hook forms the portion of the second end of the wiper arm that is received in a receiving portion having a closed cross-section. According to a feature of the invention, this second segment of the wiper arm hook helps to retain the lug in the hole. As a result, the fit between the lug and the hole helps to form a pivot axis of the adapter relative to the connector. Advantageously, the pivoting device includes a first lug of the adapter received in a first hole of the connector and a second lug of the adapter received in a second hole of the connector. Therefore, the pivot axis of the adapter relative to the connector can be achieved by a straight line passing through the first lug and the second lug, which also passes through the center of the first hole and the center of the second hole receiving the lug.

[0031] According to another exemplary embodiment described above, where at least one lug, which facilitates the formation of a means for pivoting the adapter relative to the connector, is disposed on one of the sidewalls of the adapter, a second segment of the wiper arm hook is received in a groove disposed in the connector, and a first segment of the hook is laterally abutted against the connecting means. Therefore, if the first lug, supported by the first sidewall of the adapter, begins to disengage from the first hole receiving the first lug, the second segment of the hook is driven in the direction of the first sidewall until it abuts against the lateral side of the groove, thereby preventing the first lug from completely disengaging from the first hole. Similarly, if the second lug, supported by the second sidewall, begins to disengage from the second hole receiving the second lug, the second segment of the hook is driven in the direction of the second sidewall until it abuts against the other lateral side of the groove, thereby similarly preventing the second lug from completely disengaging from the second hole. Thus, the second segment of the hook clearly helps to retain the lugs in their respective holes, thereby similarly retaining the adapter on the connector.

[0032] As described above, the at least one tab extending from the upper wall of the adapter may include at least one rod extending from the tab in a direction transverse to the main extension direction of the tab, and a second section of the wiper arm hook is arranged to support against the rod.

[0033] As described above, the second section of the wiper arm hook helps to hold the adapter on the connector, which means that the second section helps to hold the lugs in their respective holes, thereby preventing relative movement of the adapter relative to the connector, especially relative movement along the pivot axis of the adapter relative to the connector.

[0034] According to one feature of the invention, the adapter may include at least one coupling tongue designed to receive a portion of a first section of the wiper arm hook. In other words, the coupling tongue facilitates securing a second end of the wiper arm to the adapter.

[0035] For example, the coupling tongue extends primarily along a direction parallel to the main extension axis of the wiper, away from the front of the connecting device. The coupling tongue extends between a first end and a second free end, through which it is secured to the adapter. The second free end may advantageously include at least one retaining member for holding the first segment of the wiper arm in place. It should be understood that this is merely an exemplary embodiment, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the at least one retaining member may be disposed between the first and second ends of the coupling tongue.

[0036] For example, the at least one retaining member may include teeth that engage with a first cutout in a first segment of the wiper arm, for example, by means of a resilient snap fastener. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one retaining member may include two fingers, each finger laterally extending from the edge of the coupling tongue, the two fingers being designed to hold the first segment of the wiper arm hook. For example, each of these fingers may extend along a main direction perpendicular to the main extension plane of the coupling tongue.

[0037] According to a particular arrangement, at least one retaining member is formed by teeth and two fingers, the teeth being advantageously positioned between the two fingers. In other words, according to this particular arrangement, a first segment of the wiper arm hook is sandwiched between the two aforementioned fingers, close to a cut that engages with the teeth. In other words, according to this particular arrangement, the two fingers and teeth forming the retaining member are aligned along the same axis, and the retaining member thus engages with the first segment in a single region of the first segment of the hook. For example, the second sidewall of the coupling tongue extends the adapter.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the invention, the upper wall extends laterally and remotely from the interior space beyond the second sidewall, and the adapter includes at least one lower wall that extends laterally and remotely from the lower edge of the second sidewall, such that the upper wall, the second sidewall, and the lower wall define an area for receiving a first segment of the wiper arm hook. According to one embodiment of the invention, this lateral continuation of the upper wall is achieved only on one side of the adapter. Optionally, the height of the second sidewall, measured between the upper and lower walls of the adapter and perpendicular to the main extension plane of the upper wall, is the same as or substantially the same as the thickness of the first segment of the hook. More specifically, the height of the second sidewall is measured between protrusions extending beyond the second sidewall formed by the upper and lower walls, respectively.

[0039] According to a specific exemplary embodiment of the invention, at least one damping member is carried by the wiper arm. Advantageously, in the event of wiper arm malfunction, particularly during wiper replacement and before a new wiper is installed on the arm (which would cause the arm to fall off and its free end to contact the glass surface), this damping member can protect the glass surface to be wiped by the wiper system. For example, at least one damping member is mounted on a first section of the wiper arm hook. Advantageously, the damping member at least covers the first section of the wiper arm hook. Optionally, the damping member may also cover at least a portion of the bottom of the hook.

[0040] Advantageously, the wiper system according to the invention may include at least one conduit for delivering cleaning fluid, the conduit being designed to be hydraulically connected to a cleaning fluid tank carried by the vehicle, the delivery conduit being hydraulically connected to a hydraulic connecting member disposed on the back of the connecting device. In this case, the connecting member can be arranged on the back of the connecting device because, due to the shape of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm, the first segment of the hook extends laterally relative to the connecting device, thereby opening a “vertical” inlet on the back of the connecting device. In other words, as described above, the fact that the radius of curvature of the hook extends in a plane parallel to the glass surface allows the wiper arm not to cover the back of the connecting device, thus allowing the connecting member to connect to the back.

[0041] Alternatively, the delivery conduit may be hydraulically connected to a sleeve disposed on a damping member, the sleeve itself being connected to at least one nozzle carried by the damping member, the nozzle being designed to spray cleaning fluid onto the glass surface in question. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Further features, details, and advantages will become more apparent from reading the following detailed description given in an indicative manner and with reference to the various exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings:

[0043] Figure 1A partial perspective view of a wiper system according to the present invention is shown, the wiper system including at least one wiper, a wiper arm and a connection means for connecting the wiper arm to the wiper.

[0044] Figure 2 A perspective view of the connection device of the wiper system according to the present invention is shown, wherein the adapter is shown in an exploded view;

[0045] Figure 3 A perspective view of a wiper arm according to the present invention is shown;

[0046] Figure 4 A perspective view of an adapter for a connection device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0047] Figure 5 It shows according to Figure 4 A perspective bottom view of the adapter of the connection device shown in the first exemplary embodiment;

[0048] Figure 6 A perspective view of a connector of a connecting device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0049] Figure 7 A perspective view of a connection device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0050] Figure 8 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wiper system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, the cross-section being taken in a plane passing through the center of the hook forming the end of the wiper arm;

[0051] Figure 9 A first vertical cross-sectional view of a wiper system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, taken in a plane passing through the connecting device;

[0052] Figure 10 A second vertical cross-sectional view of a wiper system according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, taken in a plane passing through the connecting device, is shown, the plane being different from... Figure 9 The cross-sectional plane in the middle;

[0053] Figure 11 A vertical cross-sectional view of an adapter of a connection device according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0054] Figure 12 A perspective view of a connector of a connecting device according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0055] Figure 13A vertical cross-sectional view of the wiper system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, taken at the connection device, is shown; and

[0056] Figure 14 A vertical cross-sectional view of a modified wiper system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown at the connection device. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The features, variations, and different embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other in various combinations, provided that they are not mutually incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variations of the present invention may be contemplated that include only a selection of the following features, separate from the other features, provided that such selection of features is sufficient to provide a technical advantage or to distinguish the present invention from the prior art.

[0058] In the accompanying drawings, the terms longitudinal, transverse, lateral, left, right, up, and down refer to the orientation of the wiper 110 of the wiper system 100 according to the invention relative to the trihedrons L, V, and T. In this frame of reference, the longitudinal axis L represents the longitudinal direction, the transverse axis T represents the transverse direction, and the vertical axis V represents the vertical direction of the object under discussion. Within this frame of reference, a vertical section corresponds to a section taken in the transverse and vertical planes, that is, a section taken in the plane inscribed by the transverse axis T and the vertical axis V of the trihedron. A longitudinal section itself refers to a section taken in the longitudinal and vertical planes, that is, a section taken in the plane inscribed by the longitudinal axis L and the vertical axis X. In the following description, the terms "wiper" and "wiper blade" are used interchangeably, as are the terms "wiper arm" and "arm".

[0059] Figure 1 A wiper system 100 for wiping the surface of a vehicle glass according to the present invention is shown. For example, the wiper system 100 can be used to wipe the windshield of a motor vehicle. The wiper system 100 includes at least one wiper 110 and at least one wiper arm 120, which are connected together by a connecting device 130.

[0060] The wiper 110 extends primarily along a main extension axis X parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the illustrated trihedron, and includes at least one rubber blade 118 (e.g., in...). Figure 9 , 10 (As seen in 13 and 14), the rubber wiper blade 118 is designed to contact the glass surface for wiping it. The wiper 110 also includes at least one reinforcing member 117 (e.g., in...). Figure 8 , 9(See in 10, 13, and 14) and at least one air deflector 113, which is designed to convert the pressure exerted by the airflow flowing along the glass surface into a force that presses the wiper 110 against the glass surface of the vehicle. The rubber wiper blade 118, the reinforcing member 117, and the air deflector 113 are supported by a support member 116. Figure 9 , 10 As can be seen in 13 and 14, and these four elements are partially connected by two terminals 115 (one of which is in Figure 1 (As can be seen in the image) they remain together, and terminal 115 also has an aesthetic function.

[0061] Wiper arm 120 extends between a first end 121 and a second end 122. Wiper arm 120 is connected via the first end 121 to a motor carried by the vehicle and designed to drive the wiper arm 120 to rotate. Wiper arm 120 is connected via the second end 122 to a connecting device 130.

[0062] More specifically, the connection device 130 includes at least one connector 140 fixed to the wiper 110 and an adapter 150 mounted to pivot on the connector 140. The second end 122 of the wiper arm 120 is more specifically fixed to the adapter 150 of the connection device 130. Therefore, the adapter 150 includes at least one coupling tongue 151 extending between a first end and a second free end, the coupling tongue 151 being fixed to the adapter 150 via the first end, and the second free end including at least one retaining member 152 for holding the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120 in place. The coupling tongue 151 extends the sidewall of the adapter 150. Therefore, the portion of the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120 held by the coupling tongue 151 abuts against the sidewall of the adapter 150.

[0063] The connecting device 130 extends longitudinally along the main extension axis X of the wiper 110 between a front side 131 and a back side 132, the back side 132 facing the first end 121 of the wiper arm 120, and the front side 131 being the opposite side of the back side 132. As will be described in more detail below, the connector 140 and the adapter 150 define a receiving portion having a closed cross-section, the receiving portion being designed to receive at least a portion of the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120, the receiving portion having a closed cross-section opening onto the front side 131 and / or the back side 132 of the connecting device 130. The connecting device 130 and its components will be described in more detail later in the specification.

[0064] Figure 1The wiper system 100 shown also includes at least one damping member 160 carried by the wiper arm 120, more specifically, supported by the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120. The damping member 160 is advantageously designed to limit the risk of damage to the glass surface of a motor vehicle equipped with the wiper system 100 according to the invention in the event of malfunction of the wiper arm 120, such as during the replacement of the wiper 110 (which would cause the wiper arm 120 to fall onto the glass surface).

[0065] Should Figure 1 A more specific embodiment of a wiper system 100 according to the invention is shown, wherein the wiper 110 includes at least one orifice (not visible here) for spraying cleaning fluid, the orifice being designed to spray the cleaning fluid onto a glass surface using the wiper system 100. Advantageously, a plurality of orifices for spraying cleaning fluid are provided in the wiper 110. These spraying orifices are distributed, for example, along both sides of the connecting device 130. At least one channel for distributing cleaning fluid to the spraying orifices is also provided in the wiper 110. Cleaning fluid is supplied to this distribution channel via the connecting device 130. Thus, the presence of a conduit 123 for conveying cleaning fluid will be noted, which extends along the wiper arm 120 and connects to the connecting device 130 via the back side 132 of the connecting device 130. This connection is achieved, in particular, by the shape adopted by the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120, which will be referred to below. Figure 3 The following description is provided. More specifically, a portion of the wiper arm 120 is laterally positioned along one side of the connecting device 130 such that the upper portion of the back surface 132 of the connecting device 130 can be released, thereby allowing the delivery conduit 123 to be connected to the back surface 132 of the connecting device 130. The delivery conduit 123 is held in place against the wiper arm 120 by at least one retaining ring 124 (advantageously multiple retaining rings).

[0066] Figure 2 This is an enlarged view of a portion of a wiper system according to the invention, including a connecting device 130, and wherein an adapter 150 is shown in an exploded view to reveal a portion of a receiving portion having a closed cross-section, which partially accommodates a second end 122 of a wiper arm. As shown, the second end 122 has the shape of a flat hook 220, a section of which is received within the receiving portion having a closed cross-section, that is, within the connecting device 130. The term "flat hook" will be referenced below. Figure 3 A more comprehensive definition. In the remainder of the instruction manual, the terms "flat hook" and "hook" will be used interchangeably.

[0067] Therefore, at least the first segment 221 of the hook 220 forming the second end 122 of the wiper arm is adjacent to one side of the adapter 150, while the second segment 223 of the hook 220 itself is accommodated in a receiving portion having a closed cross-section. As described above, the first segment 221 of the hook 220 thus forms the portion of the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120 adjacent to the connecting device 130.

[0068] Should Figure 2 The hydraulic connection implemented on the back side 132 of the connecting device 130 is also disclosed. A first hydraulic connection member 149 is disposed on the back side 132 of the connecting device 130, and more specifically, on the back side 148 of the connector 140 of the connecting device 130, and a conduit 123 for conveying cleaning fluid is hydraulically connected to the first hydraulic connection member 149.

[0069] Figure 3 Only the wiper arm 120 is shown. As described above, the wiper arm 120 extends between a first end 121 and a second end 122. More specifically, the wiper arm 120 includes at least one rod 125 mounted in a yoke 126, the yoke 126 being fixed to rotate together with a bearing 127 connected to a motor carried by the vehicle. In other words, the bearing 127 forms the first end 121 of the wiper arm 120. The bearing 127 is designed to house the drive shaft of the motor, which is designed to drive the bearing 127 to rotate, and thus drive the entire wiper arm 120 to rotate.

[0070] In the example shown, the wiper arm 120 has two axes of rotation. The primary axis of rotation R1 is formed by the drive shaft of a motor, which is designed to be housed in the bearing 127 just described. This primary axis of rotation R1 is substantially vertical, that is, parallel to the vertical axis V of the illustrated trihedron, and perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the glass surface to be wiped. As a result, the wiper arm 120 is allowed to rotate, and therefore the wiper connected to it is also allowed to rotate, thus ensuring that it sweeps across the glass surface of a vehicle equipped with a wiper system according to the invention. Furthermore, a second axis of rotation R2 is formed between the yoke 126 and the bearing 127. This second axis of rotation R2 is a transverse axis, that is, parallel to the transverse axis T of the illustrated trihedron, and allows the rod 125 and the yoke 126 to move perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the bearing 127. This movement can, in particular, raise the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120 to remove it from the glass surface, thereby allowing replacement of the wiper connected to the wiper arm 130 if necessary.

[0071] As described above, the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120 is in the form of a hook 220. According to the invention, this hook 220 has a flat shape in the vertical direction, such as... Figure 3As shown. This flat shape can be defined by the arrangement of the intermediate plane of the hook 220, or by the arrangement of the radii of curvature of the curved portion forming the hook 220. Therefore, the intermediate plane or radius of curvature of the hook 220 is inscribed in a plane P that is perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the main axis of rotation R1 of the wiper arm 120. As shown, the second axis of rotation R2 of the wiper arm 120 is inscribed in plane P, and the radius of curvature of the hook 220 is also inscribed in this plane. In other words, the radius of curvature R is inscribed in both the longitudinal and transverse planes; that is, the longitudinal axis L and transverse axis T of the illustrated trihedron are inscribed in this plane.

[0072] Viewed from above, hook 220 is U-shaped, meaning it includes at least a first segment 221 extending from the body 222 of the wiper arm 120 and at least a second segment 223 connected to the first segment 221 via a base 224. The first segment 221 of hook 220 forms part of the second end 122 of wiper arm 120, which is secured to the adapter via a coupling tongue, while the second segment 223 of hook 220 is designed to be received in a connecting device, more specifically, in a receiving portion with a closed cross-section defined by the connector and adapter of the connecting device. In other words, as described above, the first segment 221 and the second segment 223 of hook 220 can be distinguished from each other because the first segment 221 is laterally abutted against the connecting device, and because the second segment 223 is received within the connecting device.

[0073] It should be noted that the longitudinal dimension of the first segment 221 is larger than the longitudinal dimension of the second segment 223 of the hook 220 forming the second end 122 of the wiper arm 120. The first segment 221 also has at least one first cutout 225 designed to receive teeth that facilitate the formation of a retaining member supported by the coupling tongue of the adapter, which will be described more fully below. According to the example shown, the first cutout 225 is a through-hole; however, it should be understood that this is merely an exemplary embodiment, and the first cutout 225 can alternatively take the form of a blind hole without departing from the scope of the invention. According to this alternative, the blind hole leads to the inner surface of the first segment 221, that is, the surface of the first segment 221 facing the second segment 223. The first segment 221 also includes at least one second cutout 226, and in particular, according to the example shown, includes two second cutouts 226, which are designed to allow the damping member to be secured to the first segment 221.

[0074] Reference Figures 4 to 10 The first exemplary embodiment of the present invention will now be described. Figure 4 and Figure 5 An adapter 150 of the connection device 130 according to a first exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 6The connector 140 of the connection device 130 according to the first exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 7 The connection device 130 is shown, that is, the adapter 150 is mounted on the connector 140, and Figures 8 to 10 Different cross sections of a wiper system 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment are shown.

[0075] An adapter 150 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention includes at least one first sidewall 153 and at least one second sidewall 154, which are connected together by an upper wall 155. The upper portion 155 and the two sidewalls 153, 154 define an internal space 156 of the adapter 150. In other words, the adapter 150 has an inverted U-shape when viewed in a vertical plane. As shown, the aforementioned coupling tongue 151 causes the second sidewall to extend rearward, that is, away from the front of the connecting device. The upper wall 155 extends laterally and away from the internal space 156 beyond the second sidewall 154. The adapter 150 also includes at least one lower wall 157, which extends laterally and away from the internal space 156 from the lower edge 158 of the second sidewall 154 (that is, the edge on the opposite side of the upper wall 155). As a result, the second sidewall 154, the upper wall 155, and the lower wall 157 define a receiving area 159 for a first segment of the hook. Advantageously, the height H of the second sidewall 154, measured along a direction perpendicular to the main extension plane of the upper wall 155 between the upper wall 155 and the lower wall 157, is the same as or substantially the same as the thickness of the second segment of the hook, measured along the same direction when the wiper assembly is assembled.

[0076] As described above, the coupling tongue 151 includes at least one member 152 for retaining a first segment of the hook. More specifically, the at least one retaining member 152 is disposed at the rear end of the coupling tongue 151, which extends a distance from the upper wall 155 of the adapter. According to the example shown here, the at least one retaining member 152 includes at least one tooth 250 and at least two fingers 251, the tooth 250 being designed to mate with a first cut provided in the first segment of the hook, and the fingers 251 causing the coupling tongue 151 to extend laterally. More specifically, these fingers 251 extend perpendicularly to or substantially perpendicularly to the main extending plane of the coupling tongue 151. Thus, a first finger 251a extends from the upper edge 252 of the coupling tongue 151 away from the interior space 156 of the adapter 150, and a second tongue 251b itself extends from the lower edge 253 of the coupling tongue 151 also away from the interior space 156 of the adapter 150. The "upper edge" and "lower edge" of the coupling tongue 151 are understood here as two edges of the coupling tongue that are opposite each other along a vertical direction parallel to the vertical axis V of the illustrated trihedron, and these two edges are respectively close to the upper and lower walls of the adapter. Advantageously, the teeth 250 are disposed between the first finger 251a and the second finger 251b supported by the coupling tongue 151. As a result, in the installed position, the first segment of the hook is clamped between the first finger 251a and the second finger 251b disposed on both sides of the first notch. For example, the teeth 250 can be fastened to engage with the first notch in the first segment of the hook by snap-fit.

[0077] The adapter 150 is mounted to pivot on the connector. For this purpose, pivoting means are distributed between the adapter 150 and the connector. For example, at least one lug may be provided on one or the other of the adapter 150 and the connector, and a hole adapted to receive the at least one lug is provided on the other of the adapter 150 and the connector. According to the example shown here, the adapter 150 supports at least one lug 254, which is designed to be received in a hole provided in the connector. As shown, the at least one lug 254 is provided on the inner surface of the first sidewall 153, that is, on the surface of the first sidewall 153 facing the inner space 156 of the adapter 150. Advantageously, the lug 254 supported by the first sidewall 153 is a first lug 254a, and the adapter 150 includes a second lug 254b supported by the inner surface of the second sidewall 154, that is, supported by the surface of the second sidewall 154 facing the inner space 156 of the adapter 150. Each lug 254a, 254b forms a protrusion from the sidewalls 153, 154, extending within the internal space 156 toward the other lug 254a, 254b. According to the invention, the first lug 254a is designed to mate with a first hole in the connector, and the second lug 254b is designed to mate with a second hole also provided in the connector. The axis passing through the first lug 254a and the second lug 254b forms the pivot axis of the adapter 150 relative to the connector.

[0078] It will also be noted that adapter 150 includes a front wall 255 extending from the upper wall 155 and the second side wall 154 of adapter 150. For example, in Figure 5 In the middle, the anterior wall 255 is more clearly visible.

[0079] Figure 5 A perspective bottom view of the adapter 150 according to a first exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 5 A second lug 254b supported by the inner surface of the second sidewall 154 is specifically disclosed. Each lug 254a, 254b has a chamfer 351 on its lower surface, meaning that the portion of the lug 254a, 254b facing the wiper has a chamfer when the adapter 150 is mounted on the connector of the connecting device. These chamfers 351 facilitate the mounting of the adapter 150 on the connector of the connecting device.

[0080] As described above, adapter 150 also includes a front wall 255. (As...) Figure 5As shown, the front wall 255 is curved, and the radius of curvature of the front wall 255 is inscribed in a plane parallel to the main extending plane of the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150. The front wall 255 continues rearward through the intermediate wall 256, that is, in the direction of the coupling tongue 151. Advantageously, the front wall 255 extends only a portion of the lateral dimension d1 of the adapter 150, that is, a portion of the dimension of the adapter 150 measured between the first side wall 153 and the second side wall 154 of the adapter 150, parallel to the lateral axis T of the illustrated trihedron, so as to leave at least a portion of this dimension, thereby allowing the insertion of the second segment of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm. It will also be noted that the front wall 255 and the intermediate wall 256 have shapes complementary to the shape of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm. This particular shape can, for example, serve as an insertion guide for the hook, more specifically, as an insertion guide for the second segment of the hook, and then the front wall 255 can form an insertion stop for the hook. For example in Figure 8 As can be seen, the front wall 255 is more specifically designed as a stop forming the base of the hook, which forms the second end of the wiper arm. In other words, it will be understood that the base of the hook 220 helps to form the front of the connecting device.

[0081] Figure 6 A connector 140 of a connection device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown, the connector 140 includes at least one base 141, which is designed to accommodate at least the aforementioned rubber wiper blade, support member, and reinforcing member. In other words, the base 141 forms a portion of the connector 140, which allows it to be secured to a wiper. A body 142 of the connector 140 extends from the base 141, and the body 142 forms vertical protrusions for mating with an adapter to form a connection device.

[0082] As shown in the figure, a groove 143 is provided in the body 142. According to the example shown, the groove 143 is more specifically located approximately at the center of the body 142 of the connector 140 along the lateral direction. Therefore, the groove 143 is defined by two lateral sides 144, a lower side 145, and a rear side 146, which are formed by the inner surface of the body 142 of the connector 140, that is, by the surface of the body 142 facing the groove 143. In other words, the groove 143 is recessed into the thickness of the body. The groove 143, defined by the lateral sides 144, lower side 145, and rear side 146, helps to define a receiving portion of the connecting device with a closed cross-section. In other words, the groove 143 is designed to receive a portion of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm. More specifically, the groove 143 is designed to receive a second segment of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm.

[0083] The connector 140 extends longitudinally between a front side 147 and a back side 148, the front side 147 forming the front of the connector and the back side 148 forming the back of the connector. According to the example shown here, a first hydraulic connection member 149 is disposed on the back side 148 of the connector 140, and a second hydraulic connection member 240 is disposed on the front side 147 of the connector. Although in Figure 6 While not visible in the center, a third hydraulic connection member can advantageously be positioned on the back 148 of connector 140. The first hydraulic connection member 149 is designed to be hydraulically connected to a conduit for conveying the cleaning fluid, meaning it forms an inlet point for the cleaning fluid to enter the connection device. In itself, the second hydraulic connection member 240 is hydraulically connected to a channel for distributing the cleaning fluid, which is positioned along the wiper and allows supply to a component for spraying the cleaning fluid; this means the second hydraulic connection 240 forms an outlet point through which the cleaning fluid exits the connection device.

[0084] As described above, a first hole designed to accommodate a first lug of the adapter and a second hole designed to accommodate a second lug of the adapter are formed on the connector 140. As will be described in more detail below, the adapter is configured to cover the connector 140. Since the lug is located on the inner surface of the sidewall of the adapter, it is understood that a hole needs to be located on the outer surface of the connector 140. Therefore, the first hole ( Figure 6 A first hole (not visible in the center) is formed in the first outer surface of the body 142 of the connector 140, while a second hole 241 is formed in the second outer surface 252 of the body 142 of the connector 140. Advantageously, the first hole and the second hole 241 are aligned, meaning they are arranged along a straight line parallel to the transverse axis T of the illustrated trihedron. For example, the first hole and the second hole 241 can be blind holes.

[0085] Figure 7 A perspective view of the connection device 130 according to a first exemplary embodiment is shown. Therefore, the... Figure 7 Specifically, the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section is visible, which is designed to accommodate the second segment of the hook that forms the second end of the wiper arm. "Receiving portion with a closed cross-section" is understood to mean a receiving portion that has a closed cross-section when viewed in a vertical plane.

[0086] As described above, the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section extends at least to the front side 131 of the connecting device 130. In other words, the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section is in the form of a tube, and its cross-section is closed and irregular when viewed from a vertical plane. Therefore, the second segment of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm can be inserted into the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section via the front side 131 of the connecting device 130 until it abuts against the aforementioned front wall 155. Alternatively, the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section can also extend to the back side of the connecting device 130.

[0087] from Figure 7 It can also be understood that the receiving portion 170, having a closed cross-section, extends at least partially within the internal space 156 of the adapter 150.

[0088] Figure 8 The wiper system 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention is partially shown, as seen in a mid-plane passing through the center of the base 224 of the hook 220 or in a longitudinal section taken from the hook, the center being the point on the base 224 where the radius of curvature of the hook 220 is minimized. Figure 8 This makes the fit between the front wall 255 of the adapter 150 and the base 224 of the hook 220, and more specifically the fit with the back surface 228 of the base 224, particularly visible. The back surface is the face of the base 224 facing the interior of the hook 220 and the first end of the wiper arm. As described above, the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section, which accommodates the second end of the wiper arm, opens at least partially to the front surface 131 of the connecting device 130, allowing the hook 220 to be inserted into the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section via the front surface 131 until the back surface 228 of the base 224 of the hook 220 is arranged against the front wall 255 of the adapter 150. In other words, in the installed position, the base 224 of the hook 220 is positioned close to the front surface 131 of the connecting device 130.

[0089] It will also be noted that, according to the first exemplary embodiment shown here, the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150 extends forward beyond the front wall 255 to cover the base 224 of the hook 220 forming the second end of the wiper arm.

[0090] Should Figure 8 The hydraulic connection between a first hydraulic connection member 149 disposed on the back side 148 of the connector and a conduit 123 for conveying cleaning fluid is also disclosed. The first hydraulic connection member 149 is thus fitted into the conduit 123 for conveying cleaning fluid.

[0091] Figure 9A wiper system 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, as seen in a vertical cross-section taken on the plane passing through the connecting device 130 and through the first segment 221 and the second segment 223 of the hook 220 forming the second end of the wiper arm.

[0092] As described above, the adapter 150 is mounted to at least partially cover the connector 140. This results in the formation of a receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section, for example, as... Figure 9 As shown, the receiving portion accommodates the second segment 23 of the hook that forms the second end of the wiper arm. More specifically, the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section is defined by the first sidewall 153 of the adapter 150, the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150, the second sidewall 154 of the adapter, and the body 142 of the connector 140, that is, by the groove 143 defined above and the upper surface 242 of the body 142 of the connector 140, which is the surface of the body 142 facing the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150 when the adapter 150 is mounted on the connector 140. As described above, the receiving portion 170 with a closed cross-section extends within the internal space 156 of the adapter 150.

[0093] Therefore, the second segment 223 of the wiper arm hook is received both within the internal space 156 of the adapter 150 and within the groove 143 provided in the connector 140. The first segment 221 of the hook itself supports and abuts against the second sidewall 154 of the adapter 150. As shown, the second sidewall 154 of the adapter 150 is thus sandwiched between the first segment 221 of the hook and the body 142 of the connector 140. This arrangement advantageously ensures that the first lug and the second lug, supported by the first sidewall 153 and the second sidewall 154 of the adapter 150 respectively, are held in the first hole and the second hole, which are provided in the outer surface of the body 142 of the connector 140.

[0094] In this arrangement, the second segment 223 of the wiper arm hook is received in a groove 143 provided in the connector 140, while the first segment 221 of the hook is laterally abutted against the connecting device 130. Therefore, if the first lug supported by the first sidewall 153 of the adapter 150 begins to disengage from the first hole receiving the first lug, the second segment 223 of the hook is driven in the direction of the first sidewall 153 until it abuts against the lateral side 144 of the groove 143, thereby preventing the first lug from completely disengaging from the first hole. Similarly, if the second lug supported by the second sidewall 154 begins to disengage from the second hole receiving the second lug, the second segment 223 of the hook is driven in the direction of the second sidewall 154 until it abuts against the other lateral side 144 of the groove 143, thereby similarly preventing the second lug from completely disengaging from the second hole. Thus, the second segment 223 of the hook helps to retain the lugs in their respective holes, and thus also retains the adapter 150 on the connector 140.

[0095] For example in Figure 10 The diagram shows the fit between the first lug and the first hole, and the fit between the second lug and the second hole.

[0096] also, Figure 9 A portion of the intermediate wall 256, which extends the front wall of the adapter, is revealed. The intermediate wall 256 extends from the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150 within the interior space 156 and extends along a direction perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150. The intermediate wall 256 is separate from the first side wall 153 and the second side wall 154 of the adapter 150. According to... Figure 9 In the first exemplary embodiment shown, the intermediate wall 256 is therefore a vertical tab that forms a component for guiding the second segment 223 of the wiper arm hook 220 during insertion into the receiving portion 170 having a closed cross-section.

[0097] As described above, the base 141 of the connector 140 forms a part of the connector 140, through which the connector 140 is fixed to the wiper. Therefore, the base 141 has an overall inverted U-shaped shape, which forms a space for accommodating the support member 116 for supporting the reinforcing member 117 and the rubber wiper blade 118. More specifically, the reinforcing member 117 is in the form of a metal strip accommodated in a receiving portion provided in the support member 116. The support member 116 also includes at least two coupling tabs 119 for the rubber wiper blade 118. The rubber wiper blade 118 includes at least one root 210 and at least one wiping lip 211. The root 210 forms the portion of the rubber wiper blade 118 held by the two coupling tabs 119 of the support member 116, and the wiping lip 211 is connected to the root 210 via a hinge 212. The wiping lip 211 forms the portion of the rubber wiper blade 118 designed to contact the glass surface to be wiped. Figure 9 An intermediate channel 213 is disclosed in the base 141 of the connector 140, which allows cleaning fluid to be delivered to the aforementioned distribution channel, which itself supplies fluid to the spray orifice in the wiper 110. In other words, the intermediate channel 213 is connected to both the first hydraulic connection member and the second hydraulic connection member.

[0098] Finally, the Figure 9 A damping member 160, supported by a first segment 221 of hook 220, is disclosed. As shown, the damping member 160 includes a lower protrusion 161, meaning that when the damping member 160 is mounted on the first segment 221, a portion of the damping member 160 extends from its lower edge toward the second sidewall 154 of the adapter 150. Therefore, the lower protrusion 161 is arranged close to the lower edge of the first segment 221. Optionally, the damping member 160 may include an air deflector, thereby further improving the aerodynamic performance of the wiper system according to the invention. Advantageously, the damping member 160 may also include at least one nozzle hydraulically connected to at least one sleeve, which itself is hydraulically connected to the aforementioned delivery conduit.

[0099] According to a variant of the invention (not shown here), the damping member covers the first segment of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm, and also covers the base of the hook. The portion of the wiper arm furthest from the second axis of rotation is the part of the arm most likely to contact and damage the glass surface. Furthermore, the portions furthest from the second axis of rotation that are not housed in the connecting device, namely the first segment and base of the hook, are even more dangerous. Therefore, according to the invention, it is important that at least the base and / or the first segment of the hook are equipped with a damping member.

[0100] Figure 10The diagram shows another vertical cross-section of the wiper system 100 according to the first exemplary embodiment, taken in a plane passing through the connecting device 130 and only through the first segment 221 of the hook; that is, the cross-section taken is larger than... Figure 9 The cross-section shown is closer to the back of the connecting device 130.

[0101] Therefore, Figure 10 Specifically, the fit between the first lug 254a and the first hole 243 formed on the first sidewall 153 of the adapter 150 and in the connector 140, and the fit between the second lug 254b and the second hole 241 formed on the second sidewall 154 of the adapter 150 and in the connector 140, are made visible. Figure 10 It is understandable that the sidewalls 153 and 154 of adapter 150 need to be spaced apart to allow adapter 150 to be mounted on connector 140. (Reference) Figure 5 The presence of chamfers on the lower surfaces of the described lugs 254a and 254b also facilitates this installation. Therefore, these sidewalls 153 and 154 exhibit sufficient elasticity to allow the lugs 254a and 254b to insert into their respective holes 241 and 243 upon returning to their initial position. During the assembly of the arm onto the connecting device 130, once the hook has been inserted into the receiving portion with a closed cross-section formed within the connecting device 130, at least the first segment 221 of the hook allows the second sidewall 154 to be pressed against the connector 140, more specifically, against the body 142 of the connector 140, thereby ensuring that at least the second lug 254b remains in its respective hole. Similarly, as referenced... Figure 9 The side of the groove provided in the connector is designed to form a stop for receiving the second segment of the hook in the receiving portion having a closed cross section, thereby preventing the lugs 254a, 254b from disengaging from the holes 241, 243 that receive them.

[0102] Should Figure 10 Another portion of the intermediate channel 213 extending through the body 142 of the connector 140 is also revealed. Therefore, this intermediate channel 213 extends longitudinally through the connecting device to supply cleaning fluid to the distribution channel.

[0103] Finally, the Figure 10A device for holding a damping member 160 on a first segment 221 of a hook is shown. As shown, the damping member 160 thus includes a pin 162 extending from an inner surface of the damping member 160 perpendicular to a main extending plane of that inner surface, which is also the surface of the damping member 160 for contacting the first side plate 221 of the hook. The pin 162 is received in one of the second cutouts 226 provided in the first segment 221 of the hook 220 and terminates at a head 163, which forms a stop at the inner surface of the first segment 221, which is also the surface facing the second segment of the hook received in a receiving portion having a closed cross-section. The head 163 has elastic deformation properties, which allows it to be press-fitted into the corresponding second cutout 226, and its return to its original shape forms a relatively disengaged stop, thereby locking the damping member 160 in place. More specifically, it will be noted that the inner surface of the first segment 221 has a notch 227 that surrounds the discussed second cutout 226 and receives the head 163 of the pin 162. Advantageously, the notch 227 allows for a reduction in the lateral dimension of the assembly consisting of the first segment 221 and the damping member 160 it carries, enabling the first segment 221 to engage along the adapter 150 in a receiving area 159 provided for this purpose. It should be understood that this is merely one embodiment of the invention, and the damping member can be attached to the wiper arm by any other known method compatible with the invention. For example, the damping member can be bonded or ultrasonically welded to the wiper arm without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0104] Now refer to Figures 11 to 14 A second exemplary embodiment of the invention is described below. In these different exemplary embodiments, the same elements have the same reference numerals, and for their description, reference may be made to the description already given above.

[0105] therefore, Figure 11 An adapter 150 of a connection device according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. More specifically, the... Figure 11 A vertical cross-section of the adapter 150 is shown, taken along a vertical plane passing through the lug 254, which facilitates the formation of a pivoting mechanism between the adapter 150 and the connector 140. The adapter 150 according to this second exemplary embodiment differs from the first exemplary embodiment, particularly in the positioning of the lug 254, which facilitates the formation of a pivoting mechanism between the adapter 150 and the connector 140.

[0106] Therefore, according to this second exemplary embodiment, at least one tab 257 extends from the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150 in a direction perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the upper wall 155. According to the example shown, two tabs 257 extend from the upper wall 155, perpendicular to the main extension plane of the upper wall 155, and within the internal space 156 of the adapter 150. Each of these tabs 257 supports one of the aforementioned lugs 254. Thus, the first tab 257a supports a first lug 154a designed to mate with a first hole of the connector, and the second tab 257b supports a second lug 254b designed to mate with a second hole of the connector. More specifically, each of these lugs 254 forms the end portion of the tab 257 that supports it. In other words, each tab 257 extends perpendicularly between the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150 and the lug 254 it supports. Each lug 254 is also arranged to protrude from the outer surface 259 of the tab 257 that supports it, the outer surface being the surface of the tab 257 facing away from the other tab 257.

[0107] Furthermore, at least one tab 257 has a rod 258 extending from the tab 257, more specifically, from the inner surface 350 of the tab 257, in the direction of the other tab 257, and in a direction transverse to (advantageously, perpendicular to) the main extension plane of the tab 257. In other words, the rod 258 extends primarily in a plane parallel to or substantially parallel to the main extension plane of the upper wall 155 of the adapter 150. The “inner surface 350 of the tab 257” is understood to be the surface of the tab facing the other tab. (Referring below...) Figure 13 In more detail, the second section of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm is designed to support against the rod 258, which allows the lug 254 to be supported by the tab 257, which supports the rod 258 in a corresponding hole.

[0108] According to the example shown, the rod 258 is disposed on the first tab 257a; however, it should be understood that this is merely an exemplary embodiment, and the rod 258 may be supported by the second tab 257b without departing from the scope of the invention. Alternatively, each tab 257 may support its own rod 258 without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0109] Apart from the differences just described, the adapter 150 according to the second exemplary embodiment is the same as the adapter 150 according to the first exemplary embodiment; therefore, the description given above, especially with reference to... Figure 4 The description, with necessary modifications to the details, applies to this second exemplary embodiment.

[0110] Figure 12A perspective view of a connector 140 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown. The connector 140 according to the second exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a base 141 from which a body 142 extends, wherein a groove 143 is provided. According to the second exemplary embodiment, in addition to the second section of the wiper arm hook, the groove 143 is designed to also accommodate two tabs of a support lug of an adapter, which facilitates the formation of means for pivoting the adapter on the connector 140. Thus, the groove 143 according to the second exemplary embodiment has a lateral dimension, that is, a dimension measured parallel to the lateral axis T of the illustrated trihedron between two lateral sides 144 that help define the groove 143, and the groove 143 varies longitudinally. Thus, the lateral dimension of the first portion 143a of the groove 143 located near the portion of the connector 140 that helps form the front of the connecting means is smaller than the lateral dimension of the second portion 143b of the groove 143, which is closer to the back side 148 of the connector 140. The first portion 143a of the groove 143 is designed to accommodate only a portion of the second section of the wiper arm hook, while the second portion 143b is designed to accommodate the other portion of the second section of the wiper arm hook and the tabs supporting the lugs of the adapter.

[0111] Similar to the connector according to the first exemplary embodiment, the connector 140 according to the second exemplary embodiment includes two holes 241, 243 designed to receive lugs supported by an adapter. As shown, these holes 241, 243 are formed on the outer surface of the body 142 of the connector 140. According to the second exemplary embodiment of the invention, the lugs are designed to be received in recesses 143. To allow mating between these lugs and the holes 241, 243, the holes 241, 243 are through holes, meaning they are formed from the outer surface through the body to the recess 143, more specifically the lateral side 144 of the recess 143. To allow the lugs to be inserted into these holes 241, 243, a chamfer 244 is provided on the lateral side 144, above each of these holes 241, 243.

[0112] The remainder of connector 140 is identical in the first and second exemplary embodiments, and the description thereof given above, in particular with reference to... Figure 6 The given description, after necessary modifications to the details, is applicable. Figure 12 .

[0113] Figure 13 A wiper system 100 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein a vertical cross section is shown in a plane passing through two tabs 257 and through a rod 258 supported by one of the tabs 257.

[0114] As shown in the figure, the second segment 223 of the hook forming the second end of the wiper arm is arranged to support abutting against the first tab 257a and the rod 258 supported by the second tab 257b. More specifically, the second segment 223 supports abutting against the inner surface 350 of the first tab 257a and against the free end of the rod 258. In other words, the second segment 223 is clamped or positioned between the inner surface 350 of the first tab 257a and the rod 258 supported by the second tab 257b. As a result, the second segment 223 allows the first lug 254a and the second lug 254b to be held in place in their respective holes 241, 243. More specifically, the support of the second segment 223 of the hook prevents lateral movement of the pivoting device, that is, movement along the pivot axis of the adapter 150 relative to the connector 140, that is, relative movement of the lugs 254a, 254b relative to the holes 241, 243 that receive them.

[0115] from Figure 13 As can be understood, the adapter 150 is designed to be mounted vertically onto the connector 140. Chamfers 244 positioned above the holes 241, 243 allow the tabs 257 to deform toward each other during insertion. These tabs 257 also exhibit sufficient elasticity to allow them to return to their initial position once inserted into the recess 143, and lugs 254 are arranged near their respective holes 241, 243. During the assembly of the wiper arm and connecting device 130, a second segment 223 of the hook 220 is inserted into a receiving portion with a closed cross-section formed between the adapter 150 and the connector 140, contacting one of the tabs and the tab associated with the other. Therefore, the second segment 221 of the hook 220 ensures the stability of the fit between the holes 241, 243 and the lugs 254. The remainder of the wiper system according to the second exemplary embodiment is the same as that according to the first exemplary embodiment, and therefore refers to above. Figure 9 and 10 The given description of it is applicable to this second exemplary embodiment after being modified as necessary.

[0116] Figure 14 A variant of the wiper system 100 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein a vertical cross-section is shown taken in the plane passing through the two tabs 257 and the rod 258 of the adapter 150. This variant of the second exemplary embodiment differs from the just described exemplary embodiment in that it is a mirror image of the latter. In other words, when mounted on the same vehicle, the coupling tongue 151 of the first segment 221 of the wiper arm hook 220 of the wiper system according to the second exemplary embodiment faces the front of the vehicle relative to the direction of movement of the vehicle, while when the wiper system 100 is implemented according to the variant of the second exemplary embodiment, it faces the rear of the vehicle.

[0117] The wiper system 100 according to the second embodiment is particularly suitable for installation on left-hand drive vehicles, while the wiper system 100 of the variant according to the second embodiment is particularly suitable for installation on right-hand drive vehicles.

[0118] As can be understood from the above, regardless of the implemented embodiment, the wiper arm can be mounted in the connecting device via a single longitudinal translational movement. Advantageously, the present invention thus avoids the need to tilt the wiper relative to the wiper arm in order to insert the wiper arm into the connecting device. As a result of the longitudinal translational movement, the first segment of the hook abuts one of the side walls of the adapter, while the second segment of the hook is accommodated in the connecting device, thereby facilitating the holding of the pivoting device arranged between the adapter and the connector in place.

[0119] As can be understood from the foregoing, the present invention therefore provides a wiper system in which the shape of the wiper arm allows for an advantageous reduction in the vertical dimension of the connecting device, and a conduit for conveying cleaning fluid can be connected via the rear of the connecting device. It is understood that the description just given does not limit the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A connection device (130) for wiping the glass surface of a vehicle wiper system (100) for connecting a wiper (110) to a wiper arm (120) configured to drive the wiper (110) to rotate, the connection device (130) comprising at least one connector (140) configured to be fixed to the wiper (110) and at least one adapter (150) mounted to pivot on the connector (140), the connector comprising a base (141) and a body (142), the base... The portion (141) forms the part of the connector (140) configured to secure the connector (140) to the wiper (110), the body (142) forms a vertical protrusion for engaging with the adapter (150) to form the connecting device (130), the adapter (150) and the connector (140) together define a receiving portion (170) having a closed cross-section, the receiving portion (170) being designed to receive at least a portion of the second end (122) of the wiper arm (120). The connecting device is characterized in that it includes a groove (143) disposed in the connector (140), the groove (143) helping to define the receiving portion having a closed cross-section, the receiving portion being configured to receive at least a portion of the second end (122) of the wiper arm (120), the groove (143) being recessed into the thickness of the body (142) of the connector (140). in, The connecting device (130) includes pivoting devices (254, 241, 243) for pivoting the adapter (150) relative to the connector (140). Each pivoting device (254, 241, 243) includes at least one lug (254, 254a, 254b) disposed on one of the adapter (150) and the connector (140), the lug (254, 254a, 254b) being received in a hole (241, 241) disposed in the other of the adapter (150) and the connector (140). The adapter (150) includes at least one first sidewall (153) and at least one second sidewall (154) connected together by at least one upper wall (155), the first sidewall (153), the second sidewall (154) and the upper wall (155) defining an internal space (156) in the adapter (150), and at least a portion of the connector (140) is accommodated in the internal space (156). Furthermore, at least one tab (257, 257a, 257b) extends from the upper wall (155) of the adapter (150) into the internal space (156) of the adapter (150) and extends in a direction transverse to the main extension plane of the upper wall (155). The at least one tab (257, 257a, 257b) supports the at least one lug (254, 254a, 254b), and the at least one tab (257, 257a, 257b) is separate from the sidewalls (153, 154) of the adapter (150).

2. The connecting device (130) as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The at least one tab (257, 257a, 257b) includes at least one rod (258) extending from the tab (257, 257a, 257b) in a direction transverse to the main extension direction of the tab (257, 257a, 257b), and at least a portion of the second end (122) of the wiper arm (120) having a closed cross-section in the receiving portion (170) is arranged to support against the rod (258).

3. The connecting device (130) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The adapter includes at least one coupling tongue (151) designed to accommodate a portion of the wiper arm, the coupling tongue (151) extending between a first end and a second free end, the coupling tongue (151) being secured to the adapter (150) via the first end.

4. A wiper system (100) for a vehicle, comprising at least one wiper (110) designed for wiping the glass surface of a vehicle, at least one wiper arm (120) designed for driving the wiper (110) to rotate, and at least one connecting device (130) as described in any of the preceding claims, the connecting device (130) being designed for connecting the wiper (110) to the wiper arm (120).

5. The wiper system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein, The wiper arm (120) extends between a first end (121) and a second end (122), the first end (121) being designed to connect to a motor carried by the vehicle, and the second end (122) being designed to be fixed to the adapter (150). The second end (122) of the wiper arm (120) has a hook shape (220), at least a portion of which is received in the receiving portion (170) having a closed cross-section, and this at least portion of which helps to hold the adapter (150) on the connector (140).

6. The wiper system (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The wiper arm (120) is configured to pivot about a main rotation axis (R1), and wherein the hook (220) of the wiper arm (120) has a radius of curvature inscribed in a plane (P) perpendicular to the main rotation axis (R1) of the wiper arm (120).

7. The wiper system (100) as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein, The hook (220) forming the second end (122) of the wiper arm (120) is U-shaped and includes at least one first segment (221) and at least one second segment (223) connected together by a base (224). The at least one first segment (221) forms a continuation of the body (222) of the wiper arm (120), and the at least one second segment (223) forms the free end of the hook (220). The at least part of the hook (220) of the wiper arm (120) that is received in the receiving portion (170) having a closed cross-section is at least partially formed by the second segment (223) of the hook (220).

8. The wiper system (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The connecting device (130) extends mainly between a front (131) and a back (132), the front (131) being away from the first end (121) of the wiper arm (120), and wherein the base (224) of the hook (220) of the wiper arm (120) is arranged close to the front (131) of the connecting device (130).

9. The wiper system (100) as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein, The internal space (156) in the adapter (150) accommodates at least the second segment (223) of the hook (220) of the wiper arm (120), and wherein the second sidewall (154) of the adapter (150) is clamped between the connector (140) and the first segment (221) of the hook (220) of the wiper arm (120).

10. The wiper system (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The second segment (223) of the hook (220) of the wiper arm (120) helps to hold the lugs (254, 254a, 254b) in the holes (241, 243).

11. The wiper system (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The at least one tab (257, 257a, 257b) includes at least one rod (258) extending from the tab (257, 257a, 257b) in a direction transverse to the main extension direction of the tab (257, 257a, 257b), and a second segment (223) of the hook (220) of the wiper arm (120) is arranged to support against the rod (258).

12. The wiper system (100) as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 6, comprising at least one damping member (160) carried by the wiper arm (120).

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