Wiper blade connection device

Abstract

The main subject of the invention is a connection device (8) for connecting a wiper blade (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (L) to an arm (119, 121, 123, 125) of a wiping system (1), the connection device (8) comprising a connector (10) configured to carry the wiper blade (2) and a connection module (12) adapted to be mounted on the connector (10) and to be connected to the arm (119, 121, 123, 125), the connection module (12) comprises: at least one base (14) pivotably mounted on the connector (10) about a pivot axis (P); and a rotating platform (16) rotatably mounted on the base (14) about an axis of rotation (R), the pivot axis (P) and the axis of rotation (R) extending parallel and separate from each other, the axis of rotation (R) being longitudinally offset with respect to the pivot axis (P).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of wiping systems for motor vehicles. More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of connection devices positioned between a wiper arm and a wiper blade of such a wiping system.

[0002] Motor vehicles are usually equipped with a wiping system for cleaning their glazed surfaces, in particular their windshields. Such a wiping system comprises at least one wiper arm and a wiper blade driven by the wiper arm. The wiper arm is connected to the motor of the vehicle, and the wiper blade comprises at least one wiper rubber intended to come into contact with the glazed surface to be wiped.

[0003] A connection device is arranged between the wiper blade and the wiper arm, so that the wiper blade can be driven. More particularly, the connection device comprises an adapter arranged between the wiper arm and a connector attached to the wiper blade. The adapter is then rigidly fastened to the wiper arm, and more particularly to the free end of the wiper arm, this interaction being detachable so that the wiper blade can be replaced when it is worn.

[0004] However, different types of wiper arms are currently fitted to motor vehicles, forcing automotive equipment manufacturers to design different adapters specific to each type of arm, one adapter specifically connecting one type of wiper arm to one connector. This has on the one hand prompted equipment manufacturers to develop many different adapters, at least one adapter for each type of wiper arm on the market, and on the other hand required users who have to replace their wiper blades to adapt and pay extra attention to choosing the correct adapter according to the type of wiper arm to which the wiper blade is to be mounted.

[0005] Document US2012144615 discloses providing an adapter comprising a base pivotably mounted on a connector and a rotating platform rotatably mounted on the base, wherein the two pivot axes and the rotation axis are longitudinally offset relative to each other. Although it is possible to manage the attachment of a wiper blade to several types of wiper arms, in particular due to the possible attachment of the wiper arm to the rotating platform or the base, this configuration takes up a certain amount of space, since on the one hand it is necessary for the base to be wide enough to be able to retract the rotating platform into the volume of the base, and on the other hand it is necessary for the base to be long enough to be able to offset the rotating pin of the rotating platform.

[0006] The present invention belongs to this background and the main subject is a connection module, which is configured to be pivotally mounted about a pivot axis of a connector, the connector being configured to be rigidly fastened to a wiper blade extending in a longitudinal direction, the connection module being suitable for connection to a wiper arm, the connection module comprising at least one base pivotally mounted on the connector and a rotating platform rotatably mounted on the base about a rotation axis, the pivot axis and the rotation axis extending parallel to and apart from each other, the rotation axis being longitudinally offset relative to the pivot axis, characterized in that the longitudinal dimension of the rotating platform is substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of the base.

[0007] The wiper blade and the wiper arm form part of a wiping system of a vehicle for at least partially cleaning a glazed surface of the vehicle. The wiping system more particularly comprises a wiper arm, a motor configured to rotate the arm and allow the wiper blade to move back and forth along the glazed surface when the wiper blade moves with the arm via a connection device and clean the glazed surface by means of a rubber carried by the wiper blade.

[0008] As mentioned, the connection device comprises a connection module pivotably mounted on a connector rigidly fastened to the wiper blade, the pivot axis allowing, in a known manner, the assembly formed by the connector and the wiper blade to pivot relative to the wiper arm in order to adapt the position of the wiper blade against the glazing surface to be wiped during its back and forth movement.

[0009] According to the invention, the connection module is divided into at least two rotating parts rotating relative to each other, namely a base ensuring the pivoting function of the connection module relative to the connector (as described above) and a rotating platform mounted movably relative to the base.

[0010] The longitudinal offset between the two parts of the connection module makes it possible to generate an angular movement of the platform relative to the base, which angular movement is sufficient to allow the platform to interact with different types of wiper arms independently of the base in a position in which the platform is disengaged from the base, the platform and the base being further configured to lock the position of these different types of wiper arms once the position of the platform is fixed relative to the position of the base. The connection module according to the invention thus makes it possible to associate a wiper blade with connection devices associated with a multitude of different types of arms that can be connected to the connection devices when the rotating platform is pressed against the base and when the rotating platform is at a distance from the base.

[0011] In this context, as mentioned above, the longitudinal dimensions of the base and of the rotating platform are identical. The fact that the longitudinal dimensions of the base are identical to those of the rotating platform makes it possible to limit the longitudinal bulk of the connection module, which is desirable for aerodynamic reasons when the wiping system formed by the blade and the wiper arm is mounted on a motor vehicle, and the fact that the longitudinal dimensions of the rotating platform are identical to those of the base makes it possible to ensure sufficient disengagement of the free end of the rotating platform in its mounted position, so as to be able to attach various types of wiper arms with various profiles and sizes to the rotating platform or to be inserted between the rotating platform and the base.

[0012] According to an optional feature of the invention, the connector comprises two sections extending parallel to each other and projecting from an upper face of the connector, the two sections contributing to at least partially delimiting a housing for the base, each section extending a side wall of the connector.

[0013] According to another optional feature of the invention, at least one of the two sections comprises a pivoting element and the base comprises at least one pivoting member intended to interact with the pivoting element in such a way as to form a pivoting device between the connector and the base.

[0014] According to an optional feature of the invention, the axis of rotation is formed at one of the longitudinal ends of the base. Thus, positioning the axis of rotation at the longitudinal end enables the movement of the rotating platform relative to the base to be optimized. According to a feature of the invention, the axis of rotation is formed at one of the longitudinal ends of the base, while the pivot axis is formed substantially at the center of the base.

[0015] According to another optional feature of the invention, the base comprises: a rotating member adapted to interact with the rotating platform; and a guide block intended to receive the free end of the rotating platform, the base extending longitudinally and having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, the guide block being arranged near the first longitudinal end, and the rotating member being arranged near the second longitudinal end. In other words, the guide block and the rotating member are each arranged at opposite longitudinal ends of the base.

[0016] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform can be moved between a first working position, in which the rotating platform is received in a guide block of the base, and a second mounting position, in which the free end of the rotating platform is arranged at a certain distance from the guide block. Considering a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis, the rotational movement of the platform relative to the base is such that when the rotating platform is in the first working position, the rotating platform extends mainly in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction and parallel to the main extension direction of the base, while when the rotating platform is in the second mounting position, the rotating platform extends in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction and the main extension direction of the base. As described above, this mobility of the rotating platform allows certain types of arms to be mounted on the connection device when the rotating platform is in the first working position, and also allows other types of arms to be mounted on the connection device when the rotating platform is in the second mounting position.

[0017] According to another optional feature of the invention, when the rotating platform is in the second mounting position, the main extension axis of the rotating platform forms an inclination angle of between 30° and 60° with the main extension axis of the base.

[0018] According to an optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform comprises at one of its longitudinal ends a positioning member configured to bear on the connector when the rotating platform is in the second mounting position in such a way as to position the connection module in an angular position suitable for mounting a certain type of wiper arm.

[0019] More particularly, the positioning member extends longitudinally from a longitudinal end of the rotating platform, which longitudinal end is arranged in the vicinity of the rotating member and opposite to the free end of the rotating platform.

[0020] This positioning member facilitates and thus ensures the mounting of a wiper arm of a certain type on the rotating platform of the connection module.

[0021] When the rotating platform is in the second installation position, the positioning member bears on the connector, thereby generating a force which in turn causes the base to pivot forward.

[0022] According to an optional feature of the invention, the locating member is in the form of a post.

[0023] According to another optional feature of the present invention, the base includes a frame, which includes at least two longitudinal walls, which extend parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, and the frame further includes two transverse walls extending vertically and between the longitudinal walls, the first transverse wall is arranged at the first longitudinal end of the structure and faces the guide block, and the second transverse wall is arranged at the second longitudinal end and supports the rotating member.

[0024] According to another optional feature of the invention, at least one longitudinal wall supports a pivot member that interacts with a pivot element of the connector.

[0025] According to another optional feature of the invention, the pivoting member comprises a tab bounded longitudinally by at least one vertical slot formed in the longitudinal wall, the tab supporting a peg extending transversely towards the exterior of the base.

[0026] According to another optional feature of the invention, the tab is elastically deformable about a bending axis parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0027] According to another optional feature of the invention, the longitudinal walls each have a notch extending longitudinally on an upper edge of the longitudinal wall.

[0028] According to another optional feature of the invention, the base comprises at least one reinforcing bridge connecting the upper edges of the two longitudinal walls in a transverse direction parallel to the pivoting direction.

[0029] According to another optional feature of the invention, the reinforcing bridge has a transverse dimension greater than a transverse dimension between the two longitudinal walls, so that two transverse ends of the reinforcing bridge extend transversely beyond the longitudinal walls.

[0030] According to another optional feature of the invention, the base comprises a first reinforcing bar and a second reinforcing bar extending transversely between the two lower edges of the longitudinal wall on either side of the pivoting member.

[0031] According to another optional feature of the invention, the guide block comprises two lateral sections, each extending parallel to each other from one of the longitudinal walls opposite to the connector, and the guide block comprises at least one recess formed on an inner face of one of the lateral sections and suitable for interacting with the rotating platform.

[0032] According to another optional feature of the invention, the connection device comprises a cap mounted to pivot about a pivot axis parallel to the pivot axis and formed at a longitudinal end of the base opposite to the longitudinal end forming the rotation axis.

[0033] According to another optional feature of the invention, the guide block comprises a first recess interacting with the rotating platform and a second recess interacting with the cap, each of these recesses being arranged on the inner face of the lateral segment.

[0034] According to another optional feature of the present invention, the base includes a pivot member, which is used to pivot together with the cap body so that the cap body can move between a covering position and a release position, in which the cap body contacts the guide block and in which the cap body is a certain distance away from the guide block, and the pivot member includes at least one axis protruding laterally from the base at the first longitudinal end.

[0035] According to another optional feature of the invention, the guide block comprises means for stopping the cap when the cap is pivoted about the pivoting direction, thereby blocking the cap in the release position.

[0036] According to another optional feature of the invention, the lateral sections of the guide block are symmetrical to each other relative to a median plane of the base perpendicular to the pivot axis.

[0037] According to another optional feature of the invention, the base comprises at least one protrusion arranged at the second longitudinal end of the base, which protrudes from the first transverse wall in a direction opposite to the connector, and the rotating member takes the form of a shaft carried by the protrusion and extending laterally beyond the protrusion.

[0038] According to another optional feature of the invention, the base comprises means for limiting the rotation of the rotating platform about the rotation axis, the rotation limiting means being arranged at the free end of the projection.

[0039] According to another optional feature of the present invention, the base includes at least one force-bearing device, which protrudes from the longitudinal wall and at least one offset portion of the force-bearing device extends in a plane parallel to and different from the plane inscribed in the longitudinal wall, and the base is configured so that the longitudinal wall and the offset portion are arranged laterally on both sides of the section of the connector.

[0040] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform comprises a body extending in longitudinal direction between a free end configured to interact with the guide block and a longitudinal edge having a rotating element thereon for rotating the rotating platform about the rotation axis.

[0041] According to another optional feature of the invention, the body includes an upper surface intended to face a wiper arm intended to be attached to a connecting device, a lower surface intended to face the base, and two lateral sides extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, and the rotating platform includes a hole forming a support portion for receiving the rod of the wiper arm, the hole extending laterally and being open on at least one of the lateral sides.

[0042] According to another optional feature of the invention, at least one of the lateral sides of the rotating platform comprises retaining means for retaining a protruding element formed on the yoke of a certain type of wiper arm, and more particularly a protruding element formed on the inner face of the yoke of a certain type of wiper arm.

[0043] According to another optional feature of the invention, the holding device is arranged on at least one of the lateral sides of the rotating platform, preferably on both lateral sides, between the pivot axis and the rotation axis.

[0044] Preferably, the holding device is arranged on at least one of the lateral sides of the rotating platform, in the vicinity of the pivot axis.

[0045] According to another optional feature of the invention, the retaining means comprise at least two walls configured to retain a protruding element of a yoke of a wiper arm of a certain type.

[0046] Alternatively, the retaining means comprise a slot configured to receive a protruding element of a yoke of a wiper arm of a certain type.

[0047] According to another optional feature of the invention, the swivel element comprises two swivel lugs, each swivel lug extending one of the lateral sides towards the base, each swivel lug comprising a hole passing transversely through the swivel lug and configured to interact with a swivel member of the base.

[0048] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform comprises a guide wall extending between the rotating lugs of the rotating element in a plane parallel to and different from a plane extending from the upper surface of the rotating platform.

[0049] According to another optional feature of the invention, the guide wall has a stop edge adapted to interact with a rotation limiting device of the base to limit the rotation of the rotating platform about the rotation axis.

[0050] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform includes an attachment area for attaching a removable adapter.

[0051] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform comprises a window delimited by the guide wall and the body of the rotating platform, the window being intended to receive the hook of the removable adapter.

[0052] According to another optional feature of the present invention, the free end of the rotating platform includes a first side surface extending one of the lateral sides in a direction away from the rotating element and a second side surface extending the other lateral side surface in a direction away from the rotating element and parallel to the first side surface, and the first side surface and the second side surface define a housing for receiving the wiper arm.

[0053] According to another optional feature of the invention, at least one of the first side and / or the second side comprises a resiliently deformable tab having a finger extending into the housing for receiving the wiper arm.

[0054] According to another optional feature of the invention, at least one of the lateral sides comprises a supporting member having a supporting edge extending the supporting member towards the base, the body of the rotating platform being intended to be supported on one of the recesses of the base via one of the supporting members of the lateral side.

[0055] According to another optional feature of the invention, when the rotating platform is in the first working position, the lateral support members and the notch of the upper edge of the longitudinal wall help define an opening that helps to fix a certain type of wiper arm in position relative to the connection module.

[0056] According to another optional feature of the invention, one of the attachment areas for attaching the removable adapter is arranged on the body of the rotating platform, the attachment area taking the form of a recess arranged on a lateral side of the body.

[0057] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform comprises a pair of adapter attachment areas which are symmetrical to each other with respect to a middle plane of the rotating platform perpendicular to the rotating direction.

[0058] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform comprises a reinforcing element extending from the lower surface of the body towards the base, the reinforcing element having a U-shaped section viewed in a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction and the axis of rotation, the reinforcing element being intended to form a stop for one end of the wiper arm.

[0059] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotation axis is vertically offset relative to the pivot axis.

[0060] According to another optional feature of the invention, the rotating platform comprises a system for attaching the covering member.

[0061] The present invention also relates to a connecting device, which is used to connect a wiper blade extending in a longitudinal direction to a wiper arm of a wiping system, the connecting device comprising a connector configured to be rigidly fastened to the wiper blade and a connecting module suitable for being mounted on the connector and connected to the wiper arm, the connecting module comprising: at least one base, which is pivotally mounted on the connector around a pivot axis; and a rotating platform, which is rotatably mounted on the base around a rotation axis, the pivot axis and the rotation axis extending parallel to and separately from each other, the rotation axis being longitudinally offset relative to the pivot axis, and characterized in that the longitudinal dimension of the rotating platform is substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of the base.

[0062] The present invention also relates to a connecting device for connecting a wiper blade extending in a longitudinal direction to a wiper arm of a wiping system, the connecting device comprising a connector configured to be rigidly fastened to the wiper blade and a connecting module suitable for being mounted on the connector and connected to the wiper arm, the connecting module comprising: at least one base, which is pivotally mounted on the connector around a pivot axis; and a rotating platform, which is rotatably mounted on the base around a rotation axis and can move between a working position and a release position, the pivot axis and the rotation axis extending parallel to and separately from each other, the rotation axis being longitudinally offset relative to the pivot axis, and characterized in that the platform is at least partially disengaged from the base in the working position.

[0063] In other words, the connection module according to the invention comprises a rotating platform mounted on a pivoting base and resting at least partially on the upper edge of a wall of the pivoting base so as to form between the platform and the base means for attaching a wiper arm of a certain type.

[0064] The base comprises a guide block which projects from the upper wall at the end opposite to the axis of rotation, for receiving the free end of the rotating platform and locking the rotating platform when it rests on the upper edge of the wall of the base. This configuration, in which the platform is not completely retracted into the base when it adopts its working position, makes it possible to use the platform as a means for locking the wiper arm between the base and the platform, and to use the platform (with respect to the disengagement portion) to form a support for a removable adapter or a cover member of a connection module.

[0065] The invention also relates to a wiper blade comprising a wiper rubber and a connection module according to any one of the above features.

[0066] Finally, the invention relates to a wiping system comprising at least a wiper arm and a wiper blade according to the above characteristics, the wiper blade being arranged at one end of the wiper arm and being rigidly fastened to the wiper blade by interaction with a connection module.

[0067] Further characteristics, details and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from reading the description of several embodiments provided by way of non-limiting indication, with reference to the attached schematic drawings, in which:

[0068] [ Figure 1 ] is a perspective view of a wiper blade on which a connection device according to the invention is mounted;

[0069] [ Figure 2 ]yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the wiper blade and connecting device shown;

[0070] [ Figure 3 ] is formed Figure 1 A stereoscopic view of a connector of the connection device, a connection module including a base and a rotating platform, and a cap body;

[0071] [ Figure 4 ]yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the connection module and the cap body shown, wherein the rotating platform is in the installed position;

[0072] [ Figure 5 ]yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the connector shown;

[0073] [ Figure 6 ] is from Figure 3 a perspective view of the base as seen from above;

[0074] [ Figure 7 ] is from Figure 3 A perspective view of the base as seen from below is shown;

[0075] [ Figure 8 ] is from Figure 3 A perspective view of the rotating platform as seen from above;

[0076] [ Fig. 9 ] is from Figure 3 A perspective view of the rotating platform as seen from below;

[0077] [ Fig.10 ]yes Figure 1 A longitudinal section of a connecting device shown and mounted on a wiper arm of a first type;

[0078] [ Fig.11 ]yes Figure 1 A perspective illustration of the connection device shown and mounted on a wiper arm of the second type;

[0079] [ Fig.12 ]yes Figure 1 A perspective illustration of a connection device shown and mounted on a wiper arm of a third type;

[0080] [ Fig.13 ]yes Figure 1 A perspective illustration of a connecting device shown and mounted on a wiper arm of a fourth type.

[0081] The features, variants and different embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other in various combinations, as long as they are compatible with each other or not mutually exclusive. In particular, it is conceivable that the variant of the present invention only includes the selection of the features described below that are separated from the other features described, provided that this selection of features is sufficient to confer technical advantages and / or distinguish the present invention from the prior art.

[0082] In the figures, elements common to several figures retain the same reference numerals.

[0083] In the following detailed description, the terms "longitudinal", "transverse" and "vertical" refer to the orientation of the wiping system according to the invention. The longitudinal direction corresponds to the main extension direction of the wiper blade of the wiping system, which is parallel to the longitudinal axis L in the reference system L, V, T shown in the figures. The vertical direction corresponds to the stacking direction of the connector, the base and the rotating platform of the connection device of the wiping system, which is parallel to the vertical axis V of the reference system L, V, T and which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. Finally, the transverse direction corresponds to the direction parallel to the transverse axis T of the reference system L, V, T, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L and the vertical axis V.

[0084] Figure 1 A wiping system 1 is shown, which is configured to clean a glass surface of a vehicle (e.g. a windshield) so as to improve the driver's view of the road ahead of the vehicle. The wiping system 1 comprises at least one wiper arm ( Figure 1 ), which wiper arm supports at one end a wiper blade 2 extending mainly in the longitudinal direction L.

[0085] The wiper blade 2 comprises at least one wiper rubber 4 intended to come into contact with the glazed surface to be cleaned, and a holder 6 for said wiper rubber 4 .

[0086] The wiper blade 2 is also rigidly fastened to the wiper arm by means of a connection device 8. The connection device 8 according to the invention comprises a connector 10 rigidly fastened to the wiper blade 2 and a connection module 12 pivotably mounted on the connector 10, the connection module 12 being configured to be rigidly fastened to the wiper arm of the wiping system 1.

[0087] The pivotable mounting of the connecting module 12 on the connector 10 thus allows the wiper blade 2 to be pivoted at one of the ends of the wiper arm and thus ensures that the wiper rubber 4 is pressed onto the glazed surface to be wiped.

[0088] More specifically, and as Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the connection module 12 includes a base 14 and a rotating platform 16 , wherein the base is pivotally mounted on the connector 10 around a pivot axis P, and the rotating platform is rotatably mounted on the base 14 around a rotation axis R.

[0089] In other words, the connecting device 8 comprises three components, namely a connector 10, a base 14 and a rotating platform 16, which are hinged in pairs so as to allow, on the one hand, the connector 10 to pivot relative to the connecting module 12 and, by extension, the wiper blade 2 to pivot relative to the connecting module, and on the other hand, to allow different types of wiper arms to be mounted on the connecting module 12.

[0090] As in Figure 3 As can be seen more particularly in FIG. 1 , the pivot axis P and the rotation axis R extend parallel to each other and separately. In the example illustrated, the pivot axis P is formed substantially at the center of the base 14 relative to its longitudinal dimension, and the rotation axis R is offset longitudinally. This longitudinal offset of the rotation axis relative to the pivot axis P allows the swivel platform to be swiveled into an inclined mounting position relative to the longitudinal and transverse planes of the base, the rotation of this swivel platform allowing certain types of wiper arms to be mounted on the connection device 8. Advantageously, the pivot axis P and the rotation axis R are offset vertically relative to each other.

[0091] According to the invention, and as will be described in more detail below, the base and the rotating platform have equal longitudinal dimensions relative to each other. As a result, the longitudinal volume of the connection module is optimized and corresponds to the useful longitudinal dimension of the rotating platform, the base not having any end portion extending beyond the rotating platform.

[0092] Furthermore, as shown, the rotation axis R and the means implemented to produce such a rotation of the rotating platform are arranged at one of the longitudinal ends of the base 14, so that this, together with the equal longitudinal dimensions of the rotating platform relative to the base, allows optimal movement of the rotating platform, so that the rotating platform can adopt the following installation position in which the wiper arm is easily placed on the platform.

[0093] As especially Figure 2 and Figure 4 As can be seen in , the connection device 8 comprises a cap 18 mounted to be pivotally movable about a pivot axis A parallel to the pivot axis P and the rotation axis R. The pivot axis A is formed at a longitudinal end of the base 14 opposite to the longitudinal end forming the rotation axis R. The cap 18 is configured to move between a covering position, in which certain types of wiper arms are attached to the connection device 8, and a release position, in which certain types of wiper arms are allowed to be mounted on the connection device 8.

[0094] As in Figure 2 As can be seen in , the connection device 8 may also include a removable adapter 20 configured to be attached to the rotating platform 16 and to allow interaction between the connection device 8 and certain types of wiper arms that cannot be directly attached to the rotating platform.

[0095] To this end, this removable adapter 20 comprises snap-fit ​​attachment means adapted to interact with the rotating platform, and further comprises means for wedging certain types of wiper arms, which are included in Fig.11 The posts 202 visible in the figure define between them both a longitudinal wedging path and a transverse wedging path, the latter in particular being able to allow positioning of a retaining tab 122 of a type of wiper and / or in Fig.13 Partially visible is at least one locking tongue 204 , against which a wiper arm of another type is arranged.

[0096] In this example, as in Figure 2 As can be seen more particularly in , the connection device 8 may include a covering member 22 that is rigidly fastened to the rotating platform 16 and / or the base 14 and at least partially covers the connector 10, the rotating platform 16 and / or the base 14. The covering member 22 allows interaction between the connection device 8 and certain types of wiper arms.

[0097] Now refer to Figures 2 to 5 Each of the elements making up the connection device 8 will be described in more detail, starting with the connector 10 .

[0098] The connector 10 has a main wall 24 extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction T, with an upper face 26 facing the connection module 12 and a lower face 28 facing the wiper blade 2. More particularly, the lower face 28 of the main wall 24 contributes to delimiting the housing of the blade, in particular the housing of the holder 6 for the wiper rubber 4.

[0099] The connector 10 comprises two side walls 30 extending at each of the transverse ends of the main wall 24, each of the side walls 30 being inscribed in a plane substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the vertical direction V. The side walls 30 each have a gap 32 on their outer face, each gap 32 being formed by removing material from the upper edge of the corresponding side wall and extending longitudinally between the two longitudinal ends of the connector 10.

[0100] The connector 10 comprises two sections 34 extending parallel to each other and protruding from the upper face 26 of the upper wall, each section 34 extending the side wall 30 of the connector 10. The two sections 34 extending on the side opposite to the lower face 28 of the main wall 24 contribute to at least partially delimiting the housing of the base 14. The sections 34 each have a convexly curved free end and are symmetrical to each other relative to a median plane of the connector 10 parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the vertical direction V.

[0101] At least one of the two sections 34 comprises a pivot element 36 suitable for interacting with a pivot member 38 of the base 14 in such a way as to form a pivot device between the connector 10 and the base 14. Preferably, each of the two sections 34 comprises a pivot element 36 interacting with a corresponding pivot member 38 of the base 14, the holes of the pivot elements 36 being aligned in the transverse direction T.

[0102] The pivot element 36 here takes the form of a hole formed in the section 34, in this case a hole passing transversely through the section 34, while the pivot member 38 takes the form of a peg intended to extend at least partially into the hole. The interaction between the hole and the peg thus forms a pivoting device.

[0103] The pivot element 36 is in this case arranged in the center of the segment 34 in the longitudinal direction L, that is to say it is arranged equidistantly from each of the longitudinal ends of the segment 34 in the longitudinal direction L. The central arrangement of the pivot element 36 in particular makes it possible to balance the pivoting of the wiper blade 2 about its arrangement at the end of the wiper arm.

[0104] As described above, the connection module 12 includes the base 14 and the rotating platform 16 rotatably mounted on the base 14, and the longitudinal dimension of each of these components is specific to the present invention.

[0105] The base 14 comprises a rotating member 40 and a guide block 42, the rotating member being adapted to interact with the rotating platform 16 so as to allow the platform to rotate relative to the base 14 about the rotation axis R, the guide block being intended to receive a free end 44 of the rotating platform 16. The base 14 extends longitudinally, having a first longitudinal end 46, near which the guide block 42 is arranged, and a second longitudinal end 48, near which the rotating member 40 is arranged. Thus, the base 14 has a longitudinal dimension DL14 measured between the first longitudinal end 46 and the second longitudinal end 48, as shown in Figure 6 can be seen in.

[0106] The rotating platform 16 comprises a body 78 extending in a longitudinal direction L between a free end 44 configured to interact with the guide block 42 and a longitudinal edge 80 having a rotating element 82 thereon for rotating the rotating platform 16 about the rotation axis R. The rotating platform 16 thus has a longitudinal dimension DL16 measured between the free end 44 and the longitudinal edge 80, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 can be seen in.

[0107] According to the invention, the platform has a longitudinal dimension DL16 substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension DL14 of the base. Thus, when the longitudinal edge 80 of the rotating platform faces the second longitudinal end 48 of the base, the free end 44 of the rotating platform can face the first longitudinal end 46 of the base.

[0108] In addition to the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16, the guide block 42 is also intended to receive a specific type of wiper arm and thus contribute to its rigid fastening to the connection module 12. The rotating member 40, for its part, allows the rotating platform 16 to rotate between a first position, in which the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16 is arranged in the guide block 42, and a second position, in which the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16 is arranged at a distance from the guide block 42.

[0109] In other words, the rotating platform 16 can be Figure 3 The first working position shown is Figure 4 The swivel platform 16 can be moved between a first working position in which the swivel platform 16 is received in a guide block 42 of the base 14 and a second mounting position in which the free end 44 of the swivel platform 16 is arranged at a distance from the guide block 42 .

[0110] The two positions of the rotating platform may in particular be defined in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis R, i.e. in a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the vertical direction V. When the rotating platform 16 is in the first working position, the main extension axis of the rotating platform 16 is parallel to the main extension axis of the base 14, in this case the longitudinal axis L. When the rotating platform 16 is in the second mounting position, the main extension axis of the rotating platform 16 intersects the main extension axis of the base 14.

[0111] As in Figure 4 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , when the rotating platform 16 is in the second mounting position, the main extension axis of the rotating platform 16 forms an inclination angle α with the main extension axis of the base 14 , which has a value between 25° and 45° and may more particularly be about 30°.

[0112] This angular inclination value has the advantage of sufficiently separating the rotating platform 16 from the base 14 to allow certain types of arms to be mounted on the connecting device 8. This angular inclination makes it possible to avoid contact between the connector and the underside of the arm when assembling the arm to the connecting device, taking into account the geometric differences that may exist for the same type of arm depending on the manufacturer of the equipment that manufactures the arm.

[0113] The invention thus makes it possible to obtain an optimal angular separation within a reduced volume of the rotating platform relative to the base, in particular due to the equal longitudinal dimensions of the two parts, and also due to the articulation of the rotating platform on the base, offset at one of its longitudinal ends.

[0114] Note here that the swivel platform 16 is in the first working position when the wiper arm is mounted in the connecting device 8 and in the second mounting position when it is necessary to assemble or disassemble the wiper arm to or from the wiper blade and the associated connecting device 8 .

[0115] First, refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The base 14 is described in more detail.

[0116] The base 14 comprises a frame comprising at least two longitudinal walls 50 extending parallel to each other between the first longitudinal end 46 and the second longitudinal end 48 along the longitudinal direction L, and two transverse walls 52 extending perpendicularly and between the longitudinal walls 50, the first transverse wall 52 being arranged at the first longitudinal end 46 of the structure and facing the guide block 42, and the second transverse wall 52 being arranged at the second longitudinal end 48 and supporting the rotating member 40. In other words, the transverse walls 52 extend parallel to the transverse direction T in such a way as to form with the longitudinal walls 50 a frame supporting at least the guide block 42 and the rotating member 40.

[0117] At least one longitudinal wall 50 supports the above-mentioned pivot member 38, which is configured to interact with the pivot element 36 of the connector 10. It is noted that the peg of the pivot member 38 extends toward the outside of the longitudinal wall 50 supporting it, i.e. away from the other longitudinal wall, in order to interact with the hole of the pivot element 36 supported by the corresponding section 34 of the connector 10.

[0118] More specifically, the pivot member 38 comprises a tab 54, which is longitudinally delimited by at least one vertical slot formed in the longitudinal wall 50, the tab 54 supporting a peg extending transversely toward the outside of the base 14. The tab 54 extends mainly in the vertical direction V, so that the bending axis of the tab 54 extends parallel to the longitudinal direction L. The curvature of the tab 54 allows the base 14 to be mounted on the connector 10, during which the tab 54 can be moved about the bending axis so as to return to its initial position once the peg has at least partially extended into the hole of the section 34.

[0119] The longitudinal walls 50 are spaced apart from one another so that they extend between the sections 34 of the connector 10 when the base 14 is attached to the connector by clip-mounting, with the base 14 extending at least partially into the housing defined by the sections 34 of the connector 10 as described above.

[0120] Furthermore, the longitudinal walls 50 each have a notch 56 extending longitudinally on the upper edge of the longitudinal wall 50 .

[0121] As in Figure 6 and Figure 7 As can be seen more particularly in FIG. 1 , the base 14 comprises at least one reinforcing bridge 58 connecting the upper edges of the two longitudinal walls 50 in a transverse direction T parallel to the pivot axis P. The reinforcing bridge 58 makes it possible to reinforce the frame of the base 14, in particular to ensure that the two longitudinal walls are spaced apart from each other and that the pegs forming the pivot member 38 remain engaged in the holes forming the pivot element 36, even when transverse forces are applied to the connection module 12 by the wiper arm. In addition, the reinforcing bridge 58 has a transverse dimension greater than the transverse dimension between the two longitudinal walls, so that the two transverse ends of the reinforcing bridge extend transversely beyond the longitudinal walls 50.

[0122] Advantageously, the base 14 includes a first reinforcing rod 60 and a second reinforcing rod 62, the first reinforcing rod and the second reinforcing rod being arranged at the Figure 7 3 and extend transversely on both sides of the pivot member 38, between the two lower edges of the longitudinal wall 50. The reinforcing bars 60, 62 have a similar function to the reinforcing bridge 58 extending on the upper edge of the longitudinal wall 50, that is, to reinforce the frame of the base 14 so as to limit deformation of the frame when the connecting device 8 is subjected to transverse forces.

[0123] The guide block 42 arranged at the first longitudinal end 46 of the base comprises two lateral sections 64 extending parallel to each other in a direction opposite to the connector 10, each in the vertical extension direction of one of the longitudinal walls 50. The lateral sections 64 contribute in particular to defining a housing for the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16 when the rotating platform is in the first working position.

[0124] The guide block 42 includes at least one recess 66 formed on the inner face of one of the lateral segments 64. Preferably, each of the inner faces of the lateral segments 64 has a recess 66. The at least one recess helps to form a hollow portion for receiving the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16.

[0125] More specifically, in the example illustrated, the guide block 42 comprises, on at least one of the lateral segments (in this case both lateral segments), a first recess 66a interacting with the cap 18 and a second recess 66b interacting with the rotating platform 16, each of the recesses 66a, 66b being positioned on the inner face of the corresponding lateral segment 64. Note that in this case, the second recess 66b is configured to interact with the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16 when it is in its working position, while the first recess 66a is configured to interact with the cap 18 to block it in the covering position, thus fixing at least the position of the rotating platform 16, and advantageously the position of the wiper arm.

[0126] According to the Figure 6 In the example shown in the figure, the first recess 66a and the second recess 66b are connected to each other so that they form only a single recess 66 having two zones, one of which interacts with the rotating platform 16 and the other interacts with the cap body 18, but it should be noted that the first recess and the second recess can be made separately from each other without departing from the context of the present invention.

[0127] In addition, the base 14 comprises a pivoting member 68 adapted to interact with a pivoting element of the cap 18 in such a way that a pivoting device is formed between the base and the cap about the pivot axis A. The cap 18 is thus movable between a covering position, in which it is in contact with the guide block 42, thereby at least partially covering the housing for the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16 and one end of the wiper arm attached to the connection device, and a release position, in which the cap 18 is at a distance from the guide block 42, in particular to allow the wiper arm to be mounted in its mounting position on the rotating platform. In this case, the pivoting element of the cap is a hole, and the pivoting member 68 comprises at least one shaft, which forms a transverse projection from the base 14 near the first longitudinal end 46.

[0128] A stop device 70 is associated with the pivoting member 68 for stopping the cap 18 when it pivots about the pivot axis A and blocking the cap 18 in its release position. The stop device 70 takes the form of a pin extending in the transverse direction T from an outer face of one of the lateral sections 64 , for example.

[0129] As shown, the lateral sections 64 may be symmetrical to each other relative to a mid-plane of the base 14 that is perpendicular to the pivot axis P.

[0130] At the second longitudinal end 48, the base 14 comprises at least one protrusion 72, which protrudes from the first transverse wall 52 in a direction opposite to the connector 10, in particular for carrying the above-mentioned rotating member 40 and vertically offsetting this rotating member 40 relative to the pivoting member 38. In this case, the rotating member 40 takes the form of a shaft carried by the protrusion 72 and extending transversely on both sides to form two bearing surfaces suitable for interacting with the rotating element of the rotating platform. The protrusion 72 more particularly extends from the transverse wall 52 mainly in the transverse direction T away from the connector 10. As mentioned above, in this configuration, the shaft is at least vertically offset relative to the frame of the base 14, thereby allowing the rotating platform 16 to have enough space to be able to rotate around the rotation axis R.

[0131] The base 14 comprises means 74 for limiting the rotation of the rotating platform 16 about the rotation axis R, which are arranged at the free end of the projection 72. The rotation limiting means 74 thus makes it possible to block the rotation of the rotating platform 16 in the second mounting position, the rotation limiting means 74 taking the form of a stop finger, for example.

[0132] The base 14 also comprises at least force-absorbing means 76 configured to allow the transmission of transverse forces, ie forces experienced by the connection device parallel to the pivoting direction of the connection module 12 relative to the connector 10 . At least a first force-absorbing means is supported by one of the longitudinal walls 50 .

[0133] More particularly, the force-bearing means 76 is characterized in that a portion, more particularly referred to hereinafter as a bearing portion, is arranged facing the corresponding longitudinal wall 50 so as to flank the wall of the connector laterally, and in particular the section of the connector. The portion of the force-bearing means facing the longitudinal wall extends in a plane parallel to the plane in which the longitudinal walls 50 are respectively inscribed, the force-bearing means 76 forming a projection from the corresponding longitudinal wall, which extends vertically away from the upper edge of the longitudinal wall. Preferably, the base 14 comprises a pair of force-bearing means 76 extending on both sides of the base 14, each of the force-bearing means 76 comprising a bearing portion extending in a plane parallel to the longitudinal wall 50 and at a distance from the longitudinal wall, thereby delimiting a housing for the section 34 of the connector 10.

[0134] For example, Figure 3 As shown, the base 14 is configured so that the longitudinal wall 50 and the force-bearing device 76 forming a protrusion from the longitudinal wall are arranged transversely on both sides of the section 34 of the connector 10. In other words, at least one section 34 (in this case each of the sections 34) is laterally flanked on the one hand by one of the longitudinal walls 50 and on the other hand by the force-bearing device 76 of the base 14, and more specifically by the supporting parts of these force-bearing devices. By means of this flanking, the longitudinal wall 50 or the force-bearing device 76 is in contact with the connector 10 in the direction of the force applied transversely to the connector 10, and thus allows the transverse force to be borne regardless of the direction of the force.

[0135] We will now refer specifically to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The rotating platform 16 is described in more detail.

[0136] The body 78 generally takes the form of a wall extending mainly in a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction T. The body 78 presents an upper surface 84 intended to face a wiper arm intended to be attached to a connection device, a lower surface 86 intended to face the base 14 , and two lateral sides 88 .

[0137] The rotating platform 16 comprises a hole 90 intended to form a bearing for receiving the rod of the wiper arm, extending transversely in the body 78 and opening on at least one of the lateral sides 88. Note that in this case, the wiper arm is mounted transversely on the connection device 8, the arm being housed in the hole 90 forming the receiving bearing, which helps to rigidly fasten the connection device 8 to the wiper arm.

[0138] The above-mentioned rotating element 82 is particularly configured to interact with the rotating member 40 of the base 14 so that it can cause the rotating platform 16 to rotate between the first working position and the second installation position, as described above. In this case, the rotating element 82 includes two rotating lugs 92, each of which includes a hole that passes through the rotating lug 92 transversely and is configured to interact with one of the bearing surfaces of the rotating member 40 of the base 14. The rotating lugs 92 refer to a shape that is different from the lateral side faces 88, the difference firstly lies in the vertical extension towards the base 14, and secondly lies in the longitudinal extension of these lateral side faces 88 in the direction away from the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16.

[0139] As a variant, at least one of the lateral sides 88 of the rotating platform 16 comprises retaining means (not shown) for retaining a protruding element formed on the yoke of a certain type of wiper arm, and more particularly on the inner face of the yoke of a certain type of wiper arm. The retaining means are arranged between the pivot axis and the axis of rotation, preferably in the vicinity of the pivot axis.

[0140] According to this variant, the retaining means comprise at least two walls configured to retain a protruding element of a yoke of a certain type of wiper arm, or a groove configured to receive a protruding element of a yoke of a certain type of wiper arm.

[0141] According to the present invention and as Figure 8 or Fig. 9 As can be seen more particularly in FIG. 1 , the rotating platform 16 comprises a guide wall 94 extending in a plane parallel to and different from the longitudinal and transverse planes in which the upper surface 84 of the body 78 extends between the rotating lugs 92 of the rotating element 82. In other words, the guide wall forms a vertical break relative to the upper surface 84 of the body 78.

[0142] The guide wall 94 has a stop edge 96 which is adapted to come into contact with the rotation limiting device 74 of the base 14 when the rotating platform 16 is in the second mounting position to limit the rotation of the rotating platform 16 about the rotation axis R. The stop edge 96 is particularly arranged at a longitudinal end of the rotating platform opposite to the free end 44 and extends transversely between the rotating lugs 92 .

[0143] The stop edge 96 is configured to contact the base 14 , and in particular the rotation limiting device 74 , when the rotating platform 16 has reached the desired tilt angle for the second mounting position, ie in this case, the tilt angle α is between 30° and 60°.

[0144] As a variant, the rotating platform 16 may further include a positioning member (not shown) which is configured at one of its longitudinal ends to bear on the connector 10 when the rotating platform 16 is in the second mounting position in such a way as to position the connection module 12 in an angular position suitable for mounting a certain type of wiper arm.

[0145] More specifically, the positioning member extends longitudinally from a longitudinal end of the rotating platform 16 that is disposed adjacent the rotating member 40 and opposite the free end 44 of the rotating platform.

[0146] This positioning member facilitates and thus ensures the mounting of a wiper arm of a certain type on the rotating platform of the connection module.

[0147] When the rotating platform 16 is in the second installation position, the positioning member bears on the connector 10 , thereby generating a force which in turn causes the base 14 to pivot forward.

[0148] For example, the positioning member takes the form of a strut.

[0149] Furthermore, the rotating platform 16 is configured to interact with the removable adapter 20 by attaching the removable adapter 20 to the rotating platform 16. For example, the rotating platform 16 includes a window 98 formed by a vertical offset between the guide wall 94 and the body 78 of the rotating platform 16, the window 98 being intended to receive the hook portion of the adapter 20.

[0150] In addition, the rotating platform 16 comprises at least one attachment area 100 on the body 78 of the rotating platform 16 for attaching the removable adapter 20, the attachment area 100 taking the form of a recess arranged on the lateral side 88 of the body 78. Preferably, the rotating platform 16 comprises a pair of attachment areas 100 arranged on either side of a mid-plane of the rotating platform perpendicular to the rotation axis R. These attachment areas are dimensioned to receive elastically deformable means on the removable adapter.

[0151] In the example illustrated, the rotating platform 16 comprises two attachment areas 100 for attaching the adapter 20 , which are arranged on the same lateral side 88 of the body 78 in order to retain the removable adapter on the rotating platform.

[0152] like Figure 8 or Fig. 9 As shown, the free end 44 of the rotating platform 16 includes a first side 104 and a second side 106, wherein the first side extends one of the lateral sides 88 in a direction away from the rotating element 82, and the second side extends the other lateral side 88 in a direction away from the rotating element 82 and is parallel to the first side 104, and the first side 104 and the second side 106 define a shell for accommodating a certain type of wiper arm, in particular a shell for a wiper arm with a hook portion.

[0153] To this end, at least one of the first side 104 and / or the second side 106 comprises an elastically deformable tab 108 with fingers 110 extending into the housing for receiving the wiper arm, the elastically deformable tab 108 being surrounded by a slit formed in the corresponding side 104, 106. The initial shape of the tab 108 and its elastically deformable nature make it possible, on the one hand, to ensure that the wiper arm penetrates into the receiving housing between the sides and, on the other hand, to ensure that each of the fingers 110 is in contact with the wiper arm when the wiper arm is in place in the receiving housing.

[0154] Furthermore, the first side 104 and the second side 106 flank a receiving portion 107 of the rotating platform 16 intended to receive a portion of a hook of a certain type of arm, the receiving portion 107 having, for example, a curved profile.

[0155] In addition, at least one of the lateral sides 88 includes a support member 112, which forms a protrusion on the edge between the lower surface 86 and the lateral side, in such a way as to form a support edge 114 facing the base 14, and when the rotating platform 16 is in the first working position, the support edge 114 is intended to be supported on the upper edge of the longitudinal wall 50 of the base 14 at the recess 56 when the rotating platform 16 is in the first working position.

[0156] As in Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure showing this working position of the rotating platform 16, the specific shape of the support member 112 and the recess 56 helps to define an opening 116, which helps to block a specific type of wiper arm in place relative to the connection module 12. This specific type of wiper arm includes an attachment element that is suitable for being received in the opening 116, which is closed when the rotating platform is folded down on the base and enables the attachment element of the wiper arm to be captured.

[0157] Therefore, the platform and the base are configured so that the platform is at least partially disengaged from the base in the working position, which in particular makes it possible to obtain a usable surface for attaching a removable adapter or covering member, and in addition provides an additional device for attaching the wiper arm between the base and the rotating platform as just mentioned, the platform being rotated into its working position so that the wiper arm attachment element can be grasped and locked between the platform and the base.

[0158] As in particular Fig. 9 As can be seen in the figure, the rotating platform 16 comprises a reinforcing element 118 extending from the lower surface 86 of the body 78 towards the base 14, and having a U-shaped section seen in a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction and the axis of rotation R. On the one hand, this reinforcing element 118 makes it possible to guide the rotation of the rotating platform 16 about the axis of rotation R by being inserted between the longitudinal walls 50 of the base when the rotating platform 16 is transferred, in particular from the second mounting position to the first working position. This reinforcing element also makes it possible to form a stop means for a certain type of wiper arm, in particular an arm with a hook that has been positioned around the above-mentioned receiving portion 107, the reinforcing element being able to form a longitudinal stop for an arm with a hook of a first size or a vertical stop for an arm with a hook of a second size.

[0159] It will be appreciated from the above that the connector 10, the base 14 and the rotating platform 16 interact with each other so that the connection device 8 can adopt an installed position (during which the rotating platform 16 is in the second installed position), and a working position (during which the rotating platform 16 is in the first working position). And as described above, the rotating platform can be arranged in the installed position with optimal angular spacing within a reduced volume.

[0160] By means of this mobility of the components of the connection device 8 , in particular the base 14 and the rotating platform 16 , and their dimensions, in particular the longitudinal dimensions, different types of wiper arms can be mounted on the connection device 8 .

[0161] like Fig.10As shown, one type of wiper arm 119 may include a hook 120 extending at least partially into a receiving housing at least partially defined by the first side 104 and the second side 106 of the rotating platform 16. Note that in this case, in order to mount the connection device 8 on the hook 120 of the arm 119, the rotating platform 16 is pre-positioned in the second mounting position by rotating about the axis of rotation R, in such a way that the free end 44 of the rotating platform and in particular the receiving portion 107 formed between the two sides 104, 106 are disengaged. The end of the hook 120 slides under the rotating platform 16, facing the lower surface 86 of the body 78, and the hook returns towards the platform until the hook abuts against the receiving portion 107 and the end of the hook comes into contact with the guide element 118. In this movement, the wiper arm first pushes out the elastic tabs 108 and the fingers 110 formed on the sides 104, 106 of the free end of the rotating platform 16. The wiper arm with hook 120 is held in place against the rotating platform by elastic return to the position of the finger 110 tending to press the hook against the receiving portion. The position of the arm relative to the connection device is then secured and locked by folding the rotating platform down on the base.

[0162] like Fig.11 As shown, a certain type of wiper arm 121 can be mounted laterally on the connection device and, for this purpose, comprises a transverse bar intended to interact with the hole 90 of the rotating platform 16. In this configuration, the interaction between the hole 90 of the rotating platform 16 and the bar of the arm 121 makes it possible to fix the longitudinal and vertical position of the wiper arm relative to the connection device 8. Moreover, a wiper arm 121 of this type comprises a retaining tab 122 adapted to cover the upper surface 84 of the body and more particularly in this case the upper surface 21 of the removable adapter 20, at the free end of which a retaining finger makes it possible to block the transverse position of the wiper arm 121 relative to the connection device 8. A wiper arm 121 of this type with a transverse bar is mounted when the rotating platform 16 is locked on the base in the first working position.

[0163] These two examples demonstrate the advantages of a connection module comprising a base and a rotating platform, the two types of arms being mounted on the connection device with the rotating platform being in different positions in each case. Fig.11 In the example shown, the rotating platform 16 enables the addition of a removable adapter 20 having posts adapted to secure the position of the retention tabs 122 .

[0164] like Fig.12As shown, a type of wiper arm 123 comprises a yoke 124 at least partially covering the connection module 12, the arm 123 comprising at least one attachment element 126 which is trapped in the opening defined by the support member 112 of the rotating platform 16 and the recess 56 of the base 14 when the rotating platform 16 is folded down on the base 14. Note that in this case, in order to mount the connection device 8 on this type of wiper arm 123, the rotating platform 16 is pre-positioned in the second mounting position by rotating about the rotation axis R in such a way that the attachment element 126 can be inserted in this opening without exerting forces on the attachment element and weakening it. The rotating platform 16 is then folded down on the base 14 by rotating about the rotation axis R so as to close the opening and trap the attachment element.

[0165] It is therefore clear that the mobility of the rotating platform relative to the base makes it possible to create specific attachment means for certain arms that are partially formed on the base 14 and partially formed on the rotating platform 16, the rotation of the rotating platform 16 making it possible to capture elements of the wiper arm in these specific attachment means when the rotating platform 16 is folded down on the base 14.

[0166] Fig.13 , another type of wiper arm 125 is shown, which also comprises a yoke 124 suitable for at least partially covering the connection module 12. The free end of the yoke 124 is covered by the cap 18 in its covering position so as to vertically block the yoke 124 relative to the connection device 8, and the yoke 124 rests on at least one locking tab 204 of the removable adapter 20 at its opposite end.

[0167] This type of wiper arm 125 can be mounted on the connection device with the rotating platform 16 in its first working position and in its second mounting position, as long as the cap is pivoted to adopt its release position. Once the wiper arm comes into contact with the locking tab 204 of the removable adapter 20, the cap can be folded down to capture the free end of the yoke 124.

[0168] Here Figures 10 to 13 The various examples presented in show clearly that the connection device 8 according to the invention is adapted to different types of wiper arms, thus making it possible to rigidly fasten the wiper blade 2 mounted on the connection device 8 to various types of wiper arms.

[0169] However, the invention is not limited to the means and configurations described and illustrated in this document, but also extends to all equivalent means and configurations and any technically operable combination of these means.

Claims

1. A connection module (12), configured to be pivotally mounted about a pivot axis of a connector (10), the connector being configured to be rigidly fastened to a wiper blade (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (L), the connection module (12) being suitable for being connected to a wiper arm (119, 121, 123, 125), the connection module (12) comprising at least one base (14) pivotally mounted on the connector (10) and a rotating platform (16) rotatably mounted on the base (14) about a rotation axis (R), the pivot axis (P) and the rotation axis (R) extending parallel to and apart from each other, the rotation axis (R) being longitudinally offset relative to the pivot axis (P), characterized in that The longitudinal dimension of the rotating platform (16) is substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of the base (14).

2. The connection module (12) according to the preceding claim, wherein The rotation axis (R) is formed at one of the longitudinal ends (46, 48) of the base (14).

3. The connection module (12) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The base (14) comprises: a rotating member (40) adapted to interact with the rotating platform (16); and a guide block (42) intended to receive a free end (44) of the rotating platform (16), the base (14) extending longitudinally and having a first longitudinal end (46) and a second longitudinal end (48), the guide block (42) being arranged near the first longitudinal end, and the rotating member (40) being arranged near the second longitudinal end.

4. The connection module (12) according to the preceding claim, wherein The rotating platform (16) is movable between a first working position in which the rotating platform (16) is received in a guide block (42) of the base (14) and a second mounting position in which a free end (44) of the rotating platform (16) is arranged at a distance from the guide block (42).

5. The connection module (12) according to any one of claims 3 and 4, wherein: The base (14) comprises a frame comprising at least two longitudinal walls (50) extending parallel to each other along the longitudinal direction (L) between the first longitudinal end (46) and the second longitudinal end (48), the frame further comprising two transverse walls (52) extending perpendicularly and between the longitudinal walls (50), the first transverse wall (52) being arranged at the first longitudinal end (46) of the structure and facing the guide block (42), and the second transverse wall (52) being arranged at the second longitudinal end (48) and supporting the rotating member (40).

6. The connection module (8) according to claim 5, wherein: The guide block (42) comprises two lateral sections (64), each of which extends parallel to each other from one of the longitudinal walls (50) opposite to the connector (10), and wherein the guide block (42) comprises at least one recess (66, 66a, 66b) formed on the inner face of one of the lateral sections (64) and adapted to interact with the rotating platform (16).

7. The connection module (12) according to any one of claims 5 and 6, wherein: The base (14) comprises at least one protrusion (72) arranged at a second longitudinal end (48) of the base (14), the protrusion (72) protruding from the first transverse wall (52) in a direction opposite to the connector (10), the rotating member (40) taking the form of a shaft carried by the protrusion (72) and extending laterally beyond the protrusion (72).

8. The connection module (12) according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein: The rotating platform (16) comprises a body (78) extending in the longitudinal direction (L) between a free end (44) configured to interact with the guide block (42) and a longitudinal edge (80), the longitudinal edge having a rotating element (82) for rotating the rotating platform (16) around the rotation axis (R).

9. The connection module (12) according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 3, wherein: The free end (44) of the rotating platform (16) includes a first side (104) extending a lateral side (88) of the body (78) in a direction away from the rotating element (82) and a second side (106) extending another lateral side (88) of the body (78) in a direction away from the rotating element (82) and parallel to the first side (104), wherein the first side (104) and the second side (106) define a housing for receiving an arm (119).

10. The connection module (12) according to the preceding claim, wherein At least one of the first and / or second sides (104, 106) includes a resiliently deformable tab (108) having a finger (110) extending into the housing for receiving the arm (119).

11. A connection device (8) for connecting a wiper blade (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (L) to a wiper arm (119, 121, 123, 125) of a wiping system (1), the connection device (8) comprising a connector (10) configured to be rigidly fastened to the wiper blade (2) and a connection module (12) suitable for being mounted on the connector (10) and connected to the wiper arm (119, 121, 123, 125), the connection module (12) comprising: at least one base (14) pivotably mounted on the connector (10) about a pivot axis (P); and a rotating platform (16), which is rotatably mounted on the base (14) around a rotation axis (R), wherein the pivot axis (P) and the rotation axis (R) extend parallel to and separately from each other, and the rotation axis (R) is longitudinally offset relative to the pivot axis (P), characterized in that the longitudinal dimension of the rotating platform (16) is substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of the base (14).

Images