End cap assembly for wiper blade unit

Abstract

The present invention relates to an end cap assembly (105) for a wiper blade unit (100) comprising a pair of slats (102a, 102b) and a wiping element (101). The end cap assembly (105) is configured to be mounted at a longitudinal end (100a) of the wiper blade unit (100), and includes a fixing portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) configured to be fixedly assembled to the longitudinal end (100a). The securing portions (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) are configured to prevent lateral movement of the pair of slats (102a, 102b). Further, the end cap assembly includes a removable portion (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) configured to be removably coupled to the stationary portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a), and the removable portion (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) configured to prevent longitudinal movement of the wiping element (101).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an end cap assembly adapted to replace a wiping element of a wiper blade unit, and to a vehicle wiper system having a wiper blade unit, and to a method for replacing a wiping element of a wiper blade unit. Background Art

[0002] Motor vehicles are conventionally equipped with a windshield wiper system to ensure that the windshield is cleaned and the driver's view of the environment is not disturbed. The windshield wiper system typically consists of a wiper blade unit and a wiper arm coupled to the wiper blade unit. The wiper blade unit includes at least a wiping element that directly contacts the windshield of the motor vehicle. The wiper blade unit further includes a support frame, at least one slat received inside the support frame, a spoiler, and a coupling element for coupling the wiper blade unit to the wiper arm. To fasten the wiping element to the support frame, the wiper blade unit further includes a pair of end caps mounted on the longitudinal ends of the support frame. When the wiping element wears out, it must be replaced with another wiping element. Further, to perform maintenance or repair on the wiper system, it may be necessary to remove the wiping element from the wiper blade unit. Conventionally, the wiping element is replaced by replacing the entire wiper blade unit. Since the support frame, the coupling element, and the slats are discarded, this will result in a large amount of waste. Some conventional end caps are assembled to the support frame by permanent fastening (e.g., by crimping). This assembly does not allow the wiping element to be removed from the wiper blade unit, and thus the entire wiper blade unit must be discarded when the wiping element wears out. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An object of the present invention is to alleviate the above problems. More precisely, an object of the present invention is to provide an end cap assembly that allows the wiping element of the wiper blade unit to be replaced.

[0004] Another object of the present invention is to provide an end cap assembly that can prevent the movement of the slats of the wiper blade unit during the replacement of the wiping element.

[0005] To achieve these objectives, the present invention provides an end cap assembly for a wiper blade unit, which wiper blade unit includes a pair of slats and a wiping element. The end cap assembly is configured to be mounted at a longitudinal end of the wiper blade unit extending along a longitudinal axis. The end cap assembly includes: a fixed portion configured to be fixedly assembled to the longitudinal end, wherein the fixed portion is configured to prevent lateral movement of the pair of slats; and a removable portion configured to be removably coupled to the fixed portion, wherein the removable portion is configured to prevent longitudinal movement of the wiping element. Advantageously, the end cap assembly of the present invention enables the replacement of a single component, namely the wiping element, from the wiper blade unit rather than replacing the entire wiper blade unit.

[0006] According to a feature of the present invention, the fixed portion includes a pair of slat retention portions, and wherein the pair of slats are configured to abut against the pair of slat retention portions.

[0007] According to a feature of the present invention, the pair of slat retention portions includes a locking portion configured to cooperate with the pair of slats to lock the pair of slats in place relative to the fixed portion to

[0008] prevent the pair of slats from moving laterally towards each other. Advantageously, the fixed portion allows the wiping element to move freely in the gap between the pair of slats and helps to correctly position the wiping element in the wiper blade unit by preventing lateral movement of the pair of slats.

[0009] According to a feature of the present invention, at least a portion of the inner surface of the fixed portion is configured to abut against a distal portion of a spoiler of the wiper blade unit.

[0010] According to a feature of the present invention, the removable portion includes an abutting portion configured to abut against an end portion of the wiping element to prevent longitudinal movement of the wiping element.

[0011] According to a feature of the present invention, the upper wall of the removable portion is configured to be flush with the upper wall of the fixed portion when the removable portion is coupled to the fixed portion.

[0012] According to a feature of the present invention, an outer edge of the fixed portion facing the longitudinal end is configured to abut against an outer edge of an open end of the removable portion when the removable portion is coupled to the fixed portion.

[0013] According to a feature of the present invention, the fixed portion and the removable portion are coupled to each other by a snap connection or a press-fit connection.

[0014] According to a feature of the present invention, the removable portion includes a fixing device configured to cooperate with the pair of slats to couple the removable portion and the fixed portion.

[0015] According to a feature of the present invention, the present invention also relates to a wiper blade unit for a motor vehicle, the wiper blade unit comprising: a wiping element extending along a longitudinal axis and adapted to contact a surface to be wiped; a support member having a pair of slats configured to support the wiping element; a spoiler extending along the longitudinal axis, wherein the spoiler is operatively mounted to the support member; an end cap assembly as described above configured to be mounted at a first longitudinal end of the support member; and a second end cap configured to be mounted at a second longitudinal end of the support member opposite the first longitudinal end.

[0016] According to a feature of the present invention, the present invention also relates to a method for replacing the wiping element of a wiper blade unit, the method comprising the steps of: removing a removable portion of the end cap assembly as described above; replacing the wiping element with another wiping element through a fixed portion; and detachably coupling the removable portion to the fixed portion.

[0017] According to a feature of the present invention, the replacing step comprises: removing the wiping element from the wiper blade unit, wherein the removing comprises longitudinally sliding the wiping element outwardly by holding an end of the wiping element extending outside the fixed portion; and installing another wiping element through the fixed portion by longitudinally sliding the other wiping element into a gap between a pair of slats of the wiper blade unit.

[0018] According to a feature of the present invention, the method further comprises preventing lateral movement of the pair of slats during replacement of the wiping element.

[0019] Additional advantages, features, and details of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] To complete the specification and to better understand the present invention, a set of drawings is provided. The drawings form a part of the specification and illustrate embodiments of the present invention, which should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention, but only as examples of how the present invention may be implemented. These drawings include the following features.

[0021] Figure 1 A perspective view of a wiper blade unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0022] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 An exploded view of the wiper blade unit shown.

[0023] Figure 3a Shows Figure 1Perspective view of the wiper blade element of the wiper blade unit shown.

[0024] Figure 3b Shows Figure 1 Perspective view of a pair of slats of the wiper blade unit shown.

[0025] Figure 3c Shows Figure 1 Perspective view of the spoiler of the wiper blade unit shown.

[0026] Figure 4a Shows a part of the wiper blade unit according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 which does not have an end cap assembly.

[0027] Figure 4b Shows a part of the wiper blade unit according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 which is mounted with the fixed part of the end cap assembly.

[0028] Figure 5a Perspective view of the fixed part of the end cap assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 5b Shows Figure 5a Bottom view of the fixed part shown.

[0030] Figure 5c Bottom view of the fixed part of the end cap assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 5d Bottom view of the fixed part of the end cap assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 6a Perspective view of the removable part of the end cap assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6b Shows Figure 6a Bottom view of the removable part shown.

[0034] Figure 6c Bottom view of the removable part of the end cap assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6d Bottom view of the removable part of the end cap assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 6e Bottom view of the removable part of the end cap assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 7a A perspective view showing a part of a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 7b Shows Figure 7a a bottom view of.

[0039] Figure 7c A bottom view showing a part of the wiper blade unit when the end cap assembly is assembled to the wiper blade unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 8a A perspective view showing a part of a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 8b Shows Figure 8a a bottom view of.

[0042] Figure 8c A bottom view showing a part of the wiper blade unit when the end cap assembly is assembled to the wiper blade unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 9a A perspective view showing a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 9b Shows Figure 9a a bottom view of.

[0045] Figure 9c A bottom view showing a part of the wiper blade unit when the end cap assembly is assembled to the wiper blade unit according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 10a A perspective view showing a part of a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 10b Shows Figure 10a a bottom view of.

[0048] Figure 10c A bottom view showing a part of the wiper blade unit when the end cap assembly is assembled to the wiper blade unit according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 11aShows a perspective view of a part of a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 11b Shows Figure 11a a bottom view of.

[0051] Figure 11c Shows a bottom view of a part of a wiper blade unit when the end cap assembly is assembled to the wiper blade unit according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0052] The description set forth below in connection with the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of the various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and is not necessarily intended to represent the only (multiple) embodiments. In some instances, in order to provide an understanding of the disclosed subject matter, the description includes specific details. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components may be shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the disclosed subject matter.

[0053] References throughout the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, operation, or function described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" throughout the specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, the particular features, structures, characteristics, operations, or functions may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Further, it is intended that the embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can and do cover modifications and variations of the described embodiments.

[0054] In the drawings, the terms "longitudinal", "transverse", "vertical", "lateral", "left", "right", "upper", "lower" refer to Figure 1 the orientation in the orthogonal axis system Oxyz of the wiper blade unit 100 shown. In the axis system, the axis Ox represents the longitudinal direction, the axis Oy represents the transverse direction, and the axis Oz represents the vertical direction of the relevant object, in particular the end cap or the wiper blade unit. In this axis system, the vertical longitudinal plane is parallel to the plane Oxz, the vertical transverse plane is parallel to the plane Oyz, and the horizontal longitudinal plane is parallel to the plane Oxy.

[0055] Figure 1 Shows a perspective view of a wiper blade unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 an exploded view of the wiper blade unit shown. Figure 3a Shows Figure 1Perspective view of the wiper blade element of the wiper blade unit shown. Figure 3b Shows Figure 1 Perspective view of a pair of slats of the wiper blade unit shown. Figure 3c Shows Figure 1 Perspective view of the spoiler of the wiper blade unit shown.

[0056] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to FIGS. and, the wiper blade unit 100 according to the invention extends along a longitudinal axis X parallel to the axis Ox. The terms "left" and "right" refer to positions on either side of the longitudinal axis X along a transverse axis Y parallel to the axis Oy. The vertical axis Z represents the vertical direction parallel to the direction of the axis Oz, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions described above. The terms "upper", "lower" or "below" refer to the orientation along the vertical axis Z, and the term "lower" includes the plane of the windshield.

[0057] Motor vehicles are generally equipped with a wiper system (not shown in the figures) for removing water and / or dirt present on the surface of the installed glass, in particular the rear window or the front windshield of a motor vehicle. The wiper system includes a drive arm that is capable of moving angularly back and forth along and on the surface of the installed glass. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to being used only in combination with a wiper system suitable for use on the windshield of a vehicle, but is for all applications employing a wiper system.

[0058] The wiper system includes a wiper blade unit 100 that extends along the longitudinal axis X. For example, the wiper blade unit 100 is of the flat blade type. The wiper blade unit 100 includes a wiper blade element 101 that also extends along the longitudinal axis X, and the wiper blade element 101 is adapted to contact the surface to be wiped of the vehicle, such as the windshield. The wiper blade unit 100 further includes a support member 102 (shown in FIGS. Figure 2 and Figure 3b ), which also extends along the longitudinal axis X and is used to reinforce or support the wiper blade element 101. The support member 102 includes a pair of slats 102a, 102b (shown in FIGS. Figure 2 and Figure 3b ). The wiper blade unit 100 may further include a spoiler 103 to prevent the wiper blade unit 100 from lifting off the surface of the windshield. Further, the wiper blade unit 100 further includes a coupling assembly 104 that is adapted to connect the wiper blade unit 100 to the wiper arm via various types of adapters / attachment members (not shown but commonly known in the art).

[0059] In an embodiment, the wiper blade unit 100 may further include: an end cap assembly 105 configured to be mounted at a first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit; and a second end cap 106 configured to be mounted at a second longitudinal end 100b of the wiper blade unit opposite the first longitudinal end 100a. The second end cap 106 configured to be mounted at the second longitudinal end 100b of the wiper blade unit 100 may be similar to a conventional end cap known to those skilled in the art.

[0060] In another embodiment, the end cap assembly 105 may be mounted at both the first longitudinal end 100a and the second longitudinal end 100b of the wiper blade unit 100.

[0061] The end cap assembly 105 is formed by detachably coupling a fixed part 105a and a removable part 105b. The fixed part 105a and the removable part 105b are configured to facilitate the replacement of the wiping element 101 from the wiper blade unit 100. Further, the fixed part 105a is configured to prevent the longitudinal movement of the spoiler 103 during the replacement of the wiping element 101. Each of the above components will be described in more detail below.

[0062] The wiping element 101 is made of flexible rubber. Although the wiping element of the present invention is made of flexible rubber, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the wiping element may be constructed of any flexible material such as silicone or another polymer. As Figure 3a shown, the wiping element 101 includes an upper portion 101a and a lower portion 101b separated by a longitudinally extending bridging or hinge portion 101c. The hinge portion 101c provides flexibility between the upper portion 101a and the lower portion 101b during the operation and movement of the wiper blade unit 100 on the surface to be wiped. The upper portion 101a includes opposing grooves 101d, 101e that extend laterally therein and longitudinally therebetween along the longitudinal ends of the wiping element 101. The grooves 101d, 101e may be configured to receive the slats 102a, 102b of the support member 102 and cooperate with the slats 102a, 102b to engage the slats 102a, 102b therein.

[0063] The support member 102 can be constructed of an elastic flexible material (such as spring steel or polymer) and is adapted to apply a force from an intermediate position between its longitudinal ends. More specifically, the support member 102 receives a force from the spring-loaded wiper arm at the intermediate position and distributes the force across the span of the support member 102 towards its longitudinal ends. In the embodiment shown herein, the support member 102 includes a pair of slats 102a, 102b that operatively reinforce or support the wiper element 101. The support member 102 can have a substantially constant width and a constant thickness over its entire length between its longitudinal ends. The constant width and thickness are adapted to provide high lateral and torsional stiffness to avoid lateral and torsional deflections.

[0064] The spoiler 103 can be operatively coupled to the wiper element 101 and the support member 102. The spoiler 103 extends along the length of the wiper element 101 and the support member 102. The spoiler 103 is used to reduce the likelihood of wind buoyancy by allowing air to flow past the wiper blade unit 101 during its operative movement across the surface to be wiped. In the embodiment shown herein, the spoiler 103 includes a pair of airfoil members 103a, 103b that are operatively mounted to the wiper element 101 and the support member 102, with a coupler member 104 extending between the pair of airfoil members. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the spoiler 103 can be defined by a single integral member without departing from the scope of the present invention. The end cap assembly 105 and the second end cap 106 are adapted to be disposed adjacent the distal ends of the airfoil members 103a, 103b. The end cap assembly 105 can include a profile that substantially mimics the profile of the airfoil members 103a, 103b to maintain the aerodynamic lift characteristics of the wiper blade unit 100 and provide increased aesthetic value.

[0065] As Figure 3c shown, each airfoil member 103a, 103b includes a longitudinal housing 103c and a guiding structure disposed below the longitudinal housing. The guiding structure includes a pair of guide rails 103d, 103e formed at the inner surface of the airfoil members 103a, 103b, through which the pair of slats 102a, 102b are introduced into the airfoil members 103a, 103b.

[0066] Figure 4a A portion of a wiper blade unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, Figure 1 which wiper blade unit does not have an end cap assembly. As can be seen from Figure 4aIt can be seen that this pair of slats 102a, 102b are fixed inside this pair of guide rails 103d, 103e of the airfoil components 103a, 103b, such that the first longitudinal sides 107a, 107b of this pair of slats 102a, 102b abut against the inner surfaces of the airfoil components 103a, 103b, thereby defining the gap between this pair of slats 102a, 102b in the transverse direction. Further, the wiper element 101 is assembled with this pair of slats 102a, 102b in such a way that the slats 102a, 102b are disposed in the grooves 101d, 101e of the wiper element 101. As can be seen from Figure 4a It can be seen that when the wiper element 101, this pair of slats 102a, 102b and the spoiler 103 are assembled, a part of this pair of slats 102a, 102b and a part of the wiper element 101 (for example) extend out from the distal end of the first airfoil component 103a.

[0067] Figure 4b shows a part of a wiper blade unit according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 to which a fixed part of an end cap assembly is mounted. The fixed part 105a of the end cap assembly 105 is fixedly assembled to the longitudinal end of the wiper blade unit 100, such as the first longitudinal end 100a. As can be seen from Figure 4b It can be seen that when the fixed part 105a is coupled to the first longitudinal end 101a of the wiper blade unit 100, the end portions of this pair of slats 102a, 102b and the end portions of the wiper element 101 extend outside the fixed part 105a. As can be seen from Figure 4b It can be seen that when the fixed part 105a is fixedly assembled to the wiper blade unit 100, at least a part of the inner surface of the fixed part 105a abuts against the distal part of the first airfoil component 103a of the spoiler 103.

[0068] Figure 5a shows a perspective view of the fixed part of the end cap assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5b shows Figure 5a the bottom view of the fixed part shown in Figure 5a It can be seen that the fixed part 105a extends longitudinally between a first end 110a and a second end 110b. The fixed part 105a includes a pair of slat retention parts 111a, 111b which are arranged to face each other along the transverse direction of the fixed part 105a. Further, this pair of slat retention parts 111a, 111b extend laterally inwards from the inner surfaces of the side walls 114a, 114b and terminate to define a channel 113a between the opposing slat retention parts 111a, 111b. Further, the fixed part 105a includes an upper wall 114c, as Figure 5aAs shown. Each of the lath retention portions 111a, 111b includes a lower element 112a spaced below an upper element 112b, and the upper element also extends laterally and inwards from the side walls 114a, 114b, and a retention gap 112c is defined between the upper element 112b and the lower element 112a. The retention gap 112c is configured to be substantially similar in shape to the laths 102a, 102b, and these laths are at least partially disposed in the retention gap. The pair of laths 102a, 102b is configured to abut against the pair of lath retention portions 111a, 111b when the pair of laths 102a, 102b is at least partially disposed within the pair of lath retention portions 111a, 111b.

[0069] The pair of lath retention portions 111a, 111b is configured to retain the pair of laths 102a, 102b in the longitudinal direction. Further, the fixing portion 105a includes a housing 113b that is positioned above the channel 113a in the vertical direction. That is, the housing 113b and the channel 113a are arranged one above the other in the vertical direction (Oz) of the fixing portion 105a. Further, the pair of lath retention portions 111a, 111b includes a locking portion that is configured to cooperate with the pair of laths 102a, 102b to lock the pair of laths 102a, 102b in place relative to the fixing portion 105a, thereby preventing the pair of laths 102a, 102b from moving laterally towards each other (i.e., along Figure 4b the directions of the shown arrows 102d, 102e), such that the gap 102c is maintained between the laths 102a, 102b.

[0070] Figure 5b is shown Figure 5a a bottom view of the shown fixing portion 105a. As can be seen from Figure 5b it, in this exemplary embodiment, the locking portion includes first snap - locking elements 116a, 116b disposed on each of the lath retention portions 111a, 111b.

[0071] Figure 5c shows a bottom view of a fixing portion of an end - cap assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5c The shown fixing portion 115a is Figure 5b different from the shown fixing portion 105a in that it has a pair of legs 117a, 117b that longitudinally extend from a first end 110a and are formed continuously with the side walls 114a, 114b of the fixing portion. The free ends 10 of the legs 117a, 117b may be slightly curved and face each other, as can be seen from Figure 5cIt can be seen. The fixed part 115a also includes a gap 117 defined between the pair of legs 117a. Thus, the outlet of this gap 117 is defined by an edge 118. These edges 118 can be used as abutting portions for the removable part 105b and the pair of slats 102a, 102b.

[0072] Figure 5d The bottom view of the fixed part of the end cap assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5d The shown fixed part 125a is different from Figure 5b the shown fixed part 105b in the locking part. As can be seen from Figure 5d it, the lower element 112a of each slat retaining part 111a, 111b has one or more cutout portions 119, which are defined as locking parts to lock the pair of slats 102a, 102b to the fixed part 125a.

[0073] Figure 6a The removable part of the end cap assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 6b Shown is Figure 6a the bottom view of the shown removable part. As mentioned before, the removable part 105b is configured to be detachably coupled to the fixed part 105a. The removable part 105b extends longitudinally between a closed end 120a and an open end 120b opposite to the closed end 120a, and the open end is defined by a rear wall 121c. The removable part 105b at least includes an upper wall 121a, a lower wall 121b, and a rear wall 121c. Further, the removable part 105b includes a housing 122, which is at least defined by the upper wall 121a, the rear wall 121c, and the lower wall 121b. The removable part 105b further includes a fixing device, which is configured to cooperate with the pair of slats 102a, 102b to detachably couple the removable part 105b and the fixed part 105a. In Figure 6b one exemplary embodiment shown, the fixing device includes second snap - locking elements 123a, 123b, which project downward from the lower wall 121b of the removable part 105b and are arranged on both sides of the housing 112 in the transverse direction of the removable part 105b. According to another exemplary embodiment, the second snap - locking elements 123a, 123b can be arranged to extend longitudinally from the open end 120b and in the direction towards the closed end 120a, as can be seen from Figure 6cIt can be seen. Further, the second snap - locking elements 123a, 123b according to this exemplary embodiment are provided below the lower wall 121b and are arranged to face the lower wall 121b. According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the second snap - locking elements 123a, 123b can be arranged to extend laterally inwards from the side walls 121d, 121e of the removable part 125b, as can be seen from Figure 6d It can be seen. Further, the second snap - locking elements 123a, 123b according to this embodiment extend from the open end portion 120b and in the direction towards the closed end portion 120a. Figure 6e Fig. shows a bottom view of the removable part of the end - cap assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. According to this exemplary embodiment, the removable part 135b is provided with a press - fit member 124, as can be seen from Figure 6e It can be seen.

[0074] The fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a and the removable parts 105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b can be detachably coupled by a locking device. For example, the locking device can be selected from snap - fasteners or press - fit connectors. However, those skilled in the art should understand that the locking device can be any other suitable mechanism that can detachably couple the removable parts 105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b and the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a.

[0075] In some embodiments, the removable parts 105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b are detachably coupled to the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a in a direction parallel to the axis Ox. In some other embodiments, the removable parts 105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b are detachably coupled to the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a in a direction parallel to the axis Oz.

[0076] Figure 7a Fig. shows a perspective view of a part of a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end - cap assembly during installation according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7b Fig. shows Figure 7a a bottom view of. In this first embodiment, Figure 5c the shown fixed part 115a is configured to be fixedly assembled to the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100, and Figure 6a the shown removable part 105b is configured to be detachably coupled to the fixed part 115a.

[0077] As shown in this Figure 7aAs shown, a part of the pair of slats 102a, 102b and a part of the wiper element 101 extend longitudinally outside the first airfoil member 103a of the spoiler 103. Therefore, the parts of these elements 102a, 102b, 101 that extend outside are free before the fixing part 115a is installed. As Figure 7a As shown, the fixing part 115a slides on the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100 in the direction S parallel to the axis Ox, so that the pair of slats 102a, 102b are received in the pair of slat retaining parts 111a, 111b of the fixing part 115a. As described above, the pair of slat retaining parts 111a, 111b are configured to cooperate with the pair of slats 102a, 102b to lock the pair of slats 102a, 102b in place relative to the fixing part 115a, thereby preventing the pair of slats 102a, 102b from moving laterally towards each other. In this embodiment, each slat of the pair of slats 102a, 102b is formed with a hole 126, which will cooperate with the first snap - locking elements 116 of each slat retaining part 111a, 111b when the fixing part 115a is assembled to the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100. For example, the holes 126 on each slat 102a, 102b have a rectangular shape. It should be understood that the holes 126 can be designed in different shapes so that they cooperate with the first snap - locking elements 116a, 116b in the pair of slat retaining parts 111a, 111b. For example, the first snap - locking elements 116a, 116b are in the form of protrusions (not shown in the figure), and these protrusions are shaped such that the protrusions can be inserted into the holes 126 to lock the fixing part 115a to the pair of slats 102a, 102b.

[0078] When the fixing part 115a is assembled to the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100, the end parts of the pair of slats 102a, 102b and the end part of the wiper element 101 extend outside the fixing part 115a. Further, at least a part of the inner surface of the fixing part 115b is configured to abut against the distal part of the first airfoil member 103a of the spoiler 103 when the fixing part 115a is assembled to the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100. When the fixing part 115a is assembled to the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100, the removable part 105b is detachably coupled to the fixing part 115a in the vertical direction, i.e., in the direction 'T' perpendicular to the axis Ox. As can be seen from Figure 7aIt can be seen that the removable portion 105b is introduced in the vertical direction onto the pair of legs 117a, 117b of the fixed portion 115a such that the hooks of the second snap-lock elements 123a, 123b bear against the lower surface of the pair of legs 118, thereby detachably coupling the removable portion 105b to the fixed portion 105a. Figure 7c Fig. shows a bottom view of a part of the wiper blade unit when the end cap assembly is assembled at the first longitudinal end of the wiper blade unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention. When the removable portion 105b is detachably coupled to the fixed portion 115a, the upper wall 121c of the removable portion 105b is flush with the upper wall 114c of the fixed portion 115a. In other words, when the removable portion 105b is detachably coupled to the fixed portion 115a, the upper wall 121c of the removable portion 105b and the upper wall 114c of the fixed portion 115a extend in the same plane. Thus, the end cap assembly 105 is formed with an outer contour that substantially mimics the profile of the airfoil members 103a, 103b to maintain the aerodynamic lift characteristics of the wiper blade unit 100 and provide an increased aesthetic value. Further, the outer edge of the fixed portion 115a facing the first longitudinal end 100a is configured to abut the outer edge of the open end of the removable portion 105b. In addition, when the removable portion 105b is detachably coupled to the fixed portion 115a, as can be seen from Figure 7c It can be seen that the abutting portion 127 of the removable portion 105b ( Figure 7c as shown) abuts against the end portion of the wiper element 101 to prevent the wiper element 101 from moving longitudinally. For example, the abutting portion 127 can be a rib element.

[0079] Figure 8a Fig. shows a perspective view of a part of the wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8b Fig. shows Figure 8a a bottom view. In this second embodiment, Figure 5a the shown fixed portion 105a is configured to be fixedly assembled to the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100, and Figure 6c the shown removable portion 115b is configured to be detachably coupled to the fixed portion 105a.

[0080] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the manner in which the removable portion 115b is coupled to the fixed portion 105a. In this second embodiment, the fixed portion 105 slides on the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100 in a direction S parallel to the axis Ox such that a portion of the pair of slats 102a, 102b is received within the pair of slat retention portions 111a, 111b of the fixed portion 105a. Similar to the first embodiment, also in the second embodiment, the pair of slat retention portions 111a, 111b are configured to cooperate with the holes 126 in the pair of slats 102a, 120b to lock the pair of slats 102a, 102b in place relative to the fixed portion 105a, thereby preventing the pair of slats 102a, 102b from moving laterally towards each other. Similar to the first embodiment, when the fixed portion 105a is assembled to the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100, the end portions of the pair of slats 102a, 102b and the end portion of the wiper element 101 extend outside the fixed portion 105a. Further, at least a portion of the inner surface of the fixed portion 105a is configured to abut the distal portion of the first airfoil member 103a of the wiper element 101 when the fixed portion 105a is assembled at the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100.

[0081] In this second embodiment, the removable portion 115b is detachably coupled to the fixed portion 105a by coupling the pair of slats 102a, 102b to the removable portion 115b in a direction 'T' parallel to the axis Ox. The second snap-lock elements 123a, 123b of the removable portion 125b are configured to cooperate with the pair of slats 102a, 102b to couple the removable portion 115b and the fixed portion 105a. The second snap-lock elements 123a, 123b of the removable portion 115b cooperate with the end portions of the slats 102a, 102b that extend outside the fixed portion 105a to lock the pair of slats 102a, 102b to the removable portion 115b, thereby detachably coupling the fixed portion 105a and the removable portion 115b. Figure 8c Figure 5 shows a bottom view of a portion of the wiper blade unit when the end cap assembly is assembled at the first longitudinal end of the wiper blade unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention. When the removable portion 115b is detachably coupled to the fixed portion 105a, the upper wall 121a of the removable portion 115b is flush with the upper wall 114c of the fixed portion 105a, and the outer edge of the fixed portion 105a facing the removable end is configured to abut the outer edge of the open end of the removable portion 115b. Further, when the removable portion 115b is detachably coupled to the fixed portion 105a, as viewed from Figure 8cIt can be seen that the abutting portion 127 of the removable portion 115b abuts against the end portion of the wiper element 101 to prevent the longitudinal movement of the wiper element 101.

[0082] Figure 9a A perspective view showing a part of a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9b Shows Figure 9a a bottom view. In this third embodiment, Figure 5a the shown fixed portion 105a is configured to be fixedly assembled to the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100, and Figure 6d the shown removable portion 125b is configured to be detachably coupled to the fixed portion 105a. The assembly of the fixed portion 105a in the third embodiment with the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100 and the assembly of the removable portion 125b with the fixed portion 105a are the same as those in the second embodiment. The difference between the third embodiment and the second embodiment lies in the arrangement of the second snap-lock elements 123a, 123b of the removable portion 125b. In this third embodiment, the removable portion 125b is detachably coupled to the fixed portion 105a by snap-locking from the side of the removable portion 125b. As can be seen from Figure 9c it, the second snap-lock elements 123a, 123b of the removable portion 125b are received in the recesses or notches 130 ( Figure 9a shown) of the pair of slats 102a, 102b so as to couple the removable portion 125b with the pair of slats 102a, 102b, thereby coupling the removable portion 125b and the fixed portion 105a.

[0083] Figure 10a A perspective view showing a part of a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10b Shows Figure 10a a bottom view. In this embodiment, the removable portion 145b having a groove 137 ( Figure 10b shown) is configured to be detachably coupled to the fixed portion 135a having a clip portion 136 ( Figure 10a shown). Similar to the previous embodiments, the pair of slat retaining portions 111a, 111b are configured to cooperate with the holes 126 in the pair of slats 102a, 102b to lock the pair of slats 102a, 102b in place relative to the fixed portion 135a, thereby preventing the pair of slats 102a, 102b from moving laterally towards each other. As Figure 10aAs shown, the fixed part 135a slides on the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100 in a direction S parallel to the axis Ox, such that the pair of slats 102a, 102b is locked to the fixed part 135a. The removable part 145b is detachably coupled to the fixed part 135a in a vertical direction, which is the direction T as Figure 10a shown. In this embodiment, the clip part 136 of the fixed part 135a is received inside the groove 137 of the removable part 135a, thereby detachably coupling the fixed part 135a and the removable part 145b.

[0084] Figure 11a Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a part of a wiper blade unit having a spoiler and an end cap assembly during installation according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11b Figure 7 shows Figure 11a a bottom view of. In this embodiment, Figure 6e the removable part 135b shown is configured to be detachably coupled to Figure 5a the fixed part 105a shown by a press - fit connection. Similar to the previous embodiment, the pair of slat retention parts 111a, 111b is configured to cooperate with the holes 126 in the pair of slats 102a, 102b to lock the pair of slats 102a, 102b in place relative to the fixed part 105a, thereby preventing the pair of slats 102a, 102b from moving laterally towards each other. As Figure 11a shown, the fixed part 105a slides on the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100 in a direction S parallel to the axis Ox, such that the pair of slats 102a, 102b is locked to the fixed part 105a. The removable part 135b is detachably coupled to the fixed part 105a in the direction T (i.e., along the axis Ox). In this embodiment, the press - fit member 124 of the removable part 135b is introduced inside the housing 113b of the fixed part 105a, thereby detachably coupling the fixed part 105a and the removable part 135b. The press - fit member 124 is shaped such that the press - fit member can be received inside the housing 113b of the fixed part 105a. Similar to the previous embodiment, when the removable part 135b is detachably coupled to the fixed part 105a, as can be seen from Figure 11c Figure 8, the abutment part 127 of the removable part 135b abuts against the end part of the wiping element to prevent the wiping element 101 from moving longitudinally.

[0085] According to another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method of assembling a wiper blade unit 100. The method comprises the steps of: coupling a support member 102 to a connector assembly 104 which is configured to connect the wiper blade unit 100 and a wiper arm. As previously described, the support member 102 extends along an axis Ox and comprises a pair of slats 102a, 102b. When coupling the support member 102 to the coupling assembly 104, the method comprises assembling a spoiler 103 having a pair of airfoil members 103a, 103b with the pair of slats 102a, 102b. The assembling step comprises: guiding the pair of slats 102a, 102b into a pair of guide rails 103d, 103e of the airfoil members 103a, 103b by relatively moving the pair of slats 102a, 102b with respect to the airfoil members 103a, 103b such that an end portion of the pair of slats 102a, 102b longitudinally extends out from a distal end of the airfoil members 103a, 103b. The method further comprises mounting a second end cap 106 at a second longitudinal end of the support member 102 such that an end portion of the slats 102a, 102b which extends out from a distal end of the second airfoil member 103b of the airfoil members 103a, 103b is received inside the second end cap 106. When mounting the second end cap 106, the fixed portions 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a of the end cap assembly 105 are mounted at a first longitudinal end of the support member 102 opposite to the second longitudinal end. Once the fixed portions 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a are mounted, a wiping element 101 is assembled to the pair of slats 102a, 102b and the assembling step comprises: guiding the wiping element 101 from its first longitudinal end through a gap between the slats 102a, 102b to the second longitudinal end when the slats 102a, 102b are assembled inside the airfoil members 103a, 103b of the spoiler 103. Next, the method comprises detachably coupling removable portions 105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b to the fixed portions 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a such that the removable portions 105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b enclose end portions of the pair of slats 102a, 102b extending out from the fixed portions 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a and end portions of the wiping element 101.

[0086] According to another embodiment, the present invention also relates to a method for replacing the wiper element 101 of the wiper blade unit 100. The method comprises the steps of: removing the removable parts 105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b of the end cap assembly 105 mounted at the first longitudinal end 100a of the wiper blade unit 100; replacing the wiper element 101 with another wiper element through the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a; and detachably coupling the removable parts 105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b to the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a. The replacement step comprises: removing the wiper element 101 from the wiper blade unit 100, and the removal includes longitudinally sliding the wiper element 101 outwards by holding the end of the wiper element 101 extending from the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a; and installing the other wiper element through the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a by longitudinally sliding the other wiper element into the gap between a pair of slats 102a, 102b of the wiper blade unit 100.

[0087] As already described, the end cap assembly 105 of the present invention enables the easy replacement of the wiper element 101 from the wiper blade unit 100. Further, the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a of the end cap assembly 105 will prevent the longitudinal movement of the first airfoil member 103a during the replacement of the wiper element 101. Additionally, the fixed parts 105a, 115a, 125a, 135a prevent the lateral movement of a pair of slats 102a, 102b, thereby allowing the wiper element 101 to move freely in the gap between the pair of slats 102a, 102b.

[0088] According to another embodiment, the present invention also relates to a windshield wiper system that at least comprises Figure 1 the windshield wiper blade unit 100 as shown, and a wiper arm for driving the windshield wiper blade unit 100.

[0089] According to another embodiment, the present invention also relates to a motor vehicle comprising a windshield wiper system.

[0090] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is in no way limited to the preferred embodiments described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations can be made within the scope of the appended claims. Additionally, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the different embodiments described herein can be freely combined to obtain new combinations.

[0091] In addition, by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and realize other variations of the disclosed embodiments when practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0092] List of Reference Numerals

[0093] 100 Wiper Blade Unit

[0094] 100a First Longitudinal End of the Wiper Blade Unit

[0095] 100b Second Longitudinal End of the Wiper Blade Unit

[0096] 101 Wiper Element

[0097] 101a Upper Portion

[0098] 101b Lower Portion

[0099] 101c Hinge

[0100] 101d, 101e Opposite Grooves

[0101] 102 Support Member

[0102] 102a Elongated Slat

[0103] 102b Elongated Slat

[0104] 102c Gap between the Arrows

[0105] 102d, 102e Displayed Arrows

[0106] 103 Spoiler

[0107] 103a First Airfoil Component

[0108] 103b Second Airfoil Component

[0109] 103c Longitudinal Housing

[0110] 103d, 103e Guide Structure

[0111] 104 Coupling Assembly

[0112] 105 End Cap Assembly

[0113] 105a Fixed Portion

[0114] 105b Removable Portion

[0115] 106 Second end cap

[0116] 117 Gap

[0117] 117a, 117b First longitudinal ends of a pair of slats

[0118] 110a First end of the fixing part

[0119] 110b Second end of the fixing part

[0120] 111a, 111b Slat retention parts

[0121] 112a Lower element of each slat receiving part

[0122] 112b Upper element of each slat receiving part

[0123] 112c Retention gap

[0124] 113a Housing of the fixing part

[0125] 113b Channel of the fixing part

[0126] 114a, 114b Side walls of the fixing part

[0127] 114c Upper wall of the fixing part

[0128] 115a Fixing part

[0129] 125a Fixing part

[0130] 116a, 116b First snap - locking elements

[0131] 117a, 117b A pair of legs of the fixing part

[0132] 118 Edge of the gap

[0133] 119 Cut - out part

[0134] 120a Closed end of the removable part

[0135] 120b Open end of the removable part

[0136] 121a Upper wall of the removable part

[0137] 121b Lower wall of the removable part

[0138] 121c Rear wall of the removable part

[0139] 122 Housing of the removable part

[0140] 123a, 123b Second snap - locking elements

[0141] Removable parts 115b, 125b, and 135b

[0142] Press-fit part 124

[0143] Holes in a pair of slats 126

[0144] Contact portion of the removable part 127

[0145] Recessed area of a pair of slats 130

[0146] Fixed part 135a

[0147] Removable part 145b

[0148] Clip portion of the fixed part 135a 136

[0149] Slot of the removable part 145b 137

Claims

1. An end cap assembly (105) for a wiper blade unit (100), the wiper blade unit including a pair of slats (102a, 102b) and a wiping element (101), wherein, The end cap assembly (105) is configured to be mounted at a longitudinal end (100a) of the wiper blade unit (100) extending along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the end cap assembly (105) includes: A fixed portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) configured to be fixedly assembled to the longitudinal end (100a), wherein the fixed portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) is configured to prevent lateral movement of the pair of slats (102a, 102b); and A removable portion (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) configured to be removably coupled to the fixed portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a), wherein the removable portion (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) is configured to prevent longitudinal movement of the wiper element (101).

2. The end cap assembly (105) according to claim 1, wherein, The fixed portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) includes a pair of slat retention portions (111a, 111b), and wherein the pair of slats (102a, 102b) are configured to abut against the pair of slat retention portions (111a, 111b).

3. The end cap assembly (105) according to claim 2, wherein, The pair of slat retention portions (111a, 111b) includes locking portions configured to cooperate with the pair of slats (102a, 102b) to lock the pair of slats in place relative to the fixed portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) to prevent the pair of slats (102a, 102b) from moving laterally towards each other.

4. The end cap assembly (105) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least a portion of the inner surface of the fixed portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) is configured to abut against a distal portion of a spoiler (103) of the wiper blade unit (100).

5. The end cap assembly (105) according to claim 1, wherein, The removable portion (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) includes an abutment portion (127) configured to abut against an end portion of the wiper element (101) to prevent longitudinal movement of the wiper element (101).

6. The end cap assembly (105) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, An upper wall (121a) of the removable portion (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) is configured to be flush with an upper wall (114c) of the fixed portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) when the removable portion (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) is coupled to the fixed portion (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a).

7. The end cap assembly (105) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The outer edge of the fixed part (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) facing the longitudinal end (100a) is configured to abut against the outer edge of the open end (120b) of the removable part when the removable part (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) is coupled to the fixed part (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a).

8. The end cap assembly (105) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The fixed part (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) and the removable part (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) are coupled to each other by a snap connection or a press - fit connection.

9. The end cap assembly (105) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The removable part (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) includes a fixing device configured to cooperate with the pair of slats (102a, 102b) to couple the removable part (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) and the fixed part (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a).

10. A wiper blade unit (100) for a motor vehicle, the wiper blade unit comprising: A wiper element (101) extending along a longitudinal axis and adapted to contact a surface to be wiped; A support member (102) having a pair of slats (102a, 102b) configured to support the wiper element (101); A spoiler (103) extending along the longitudinal axis, wherein the spoiler (103) is operatively mounted to the support member (102); An end - cap assembly (105) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, the end - cap assembly being configured to be mounted at a first longitudinal end of the support member (102); and A second end - cap (106) configured to be mounted at a second longitudinal end of the support member (102) opposite to the first longitudinal end.

11. A windshield wiper system, the windshield wiper system at least comprising: A wiper blade unit (100) as claimed in claim 10, and a wiper arm for driving the wiper blade unit (100).

12. A motor vehicle comprising a windscreen wiper system as claimed in the preceding claim 11.

13. A method for replacing the wiper element (101) of a wiper blade unit (101), the method comprising the steps of: Removing the removable part (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) of the end - cap assembly (105) of the wiper blade unit (100) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9; Replacing the wiper element (101) by passing another wiper element through the fixed part (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) of the end - cap assembly (105); and Detachably coupling the removable part (105b, 115b, 125b, 135b, 145b) to the fixed part (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The replacement steps include: Detaching the wiping element (101) from the wiper blade unit (101), wherein the detachment includes longitudinally sliding the wiping element (101) outwards by holding the end of the wiping element (101) extending from the fixed part (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a); and Installing another wiping element through the fixed part (105a, 115a, 125a, 135a) by longitudinally sliding the other wiping element into the gap between a pair of slats (102a, 102b) of the wiper blade unit (100).

15. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein, The method further includes preventing lateral movement of the pair of slats (102a, 102b) during replacement of the wiping element (101).

Images