Wiper strip

Abstract

The invention provides a wiper blade which simplifies the structure of a check valve, improves the assembly workability of the check valve, and achieves the miniaturization of a washing unit. The wiper strip includes a washing unit that is attached to the second long-side wall portion of the connecting member and sprays a washing liquid toward the surface of the window glass. The washing unit has a cover member disposed facing the second long-side wall portion, a valve member disposed between the second long-side wall portion and the cover member, and a flow path disposed between the cover member and the valve member and through which the washing liquid flows, and the valve member includes an elastically deformable hollow check valve disposed on the upstream side of the flow path. The check valve has a slit, which is opened against the restoring force of the check valve when the internal pressure of the check valve increases, and which is closed by the restoring force of the check valve when the internal pressure of the check valve decreases.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a wiper strip for wiping a wiping surface. Background Art

[0002] Vehicles such as automobiles are equipped with wiper devices that wipe away rainwater and other debris adhering to the window glass surface (wiping surface). The wiper device includes a wiper blade that slides onto the wiping surface. The wiper blade is attached to the front end of a wiper arm that swings along a drive shaft. The wiper motor rotates the drive shaft forward and reverse, allowing the wiper blade to wipe away rainwater and dust adhering to the wiping surface.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a wiper strip including: a pair of secondary levers gripping a wiper rubber strip; a primary lever supporting the pair of secondary levers; a center cover mounted on the primary levers; and a washer nozzle mounted on the center cover.

[0004] The nozzle body that forms the washer nozzle houses a check valve. The check valve includes a valve body that opens and closes the flow path and a coil spring that presses the valve body toward the flow path. When cleaning fluid is pumped from the washer pump, the valve body moves against the spring force of the coil spring to open the flow path. When the supply of cleaning fluid stops, the valve body moves against the spring force of the coil spring to close the flow path.

[0005] [Prior art literature]

[0006] [Patent Document]

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-030565 Summary of the Invention

[0008] [Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0009] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, the check valve including the valve body and the coil spring must be operably housed inside the nozzle body. This leads to the following problems: the structure of the washing nozzle becomes complicated, the assembly operation becomes difficult, and the washing nozzle becomes larger.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide a wiper strip, which can simplify the structure of a check valve to improve its assembly workability and realize miniaturization of a washing unit.

[0011] [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0012] In one embodiment of the wiper strip, the wiper strip is mounted on a wiper arm that swings through a drive shaft to wipe a wiping surface, the wiper strip comprising: a connecting member rotatably mounted on the wiper arm; a wiper rubber strip mounted on the connecting member and slidably connected to the wiping surface; and a washing unit mounted on a side wall portion on at least one side of the connecting member in the wiping direction of the wiper rubber strip to spray a cleaning liquid toward the wiping surface, the washing unit comprising: a first mounting component disposed opposite to the side wall portion; a second mounting component disposed between the side wall portion and the first mounting component; and a flow path disposed between the first mounting component and the second mounting component for the circulation of the cleaning liquid, the second mounting component comprising a hollow check valve disposed on the upstream side of the flow path and capable of elastic deformation, the check valve having a slit, the slit being opened by overcoming a restoring force of the check valve when the internal pressure of the check valve rises, and being closed by the restoring force of the check valve when the internal pressure of the check valve drops.

[0013] [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, a wiper strip can be realized, in which the structure of a check valve can be simplified to improve the assembly workability thereof, and a washer unit can be miniaturized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a wiper device mounted on a vehicle.

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A arrow diagram.

[0017] Figure 3 It is an enlarged perspective view of the washing unit.

[0018] Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of the washing unit.

[0019] Figures 5A to 5C It is a diagram showing the details of the connecting member.

[0020] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the inner side of the cover member.

[0021] 7A to 7C It is a diagram showing details of the valve member.

[0022] Figure 8A and Figure 8B It is a perspective view showing details of the pipe connecting member.

[0023] Figure 9A and Figure 9B Indicates the movement of the valve body. Figure 4An enlarged view of the dotted circle B.

[0024] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the washing unit.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the assembly flow of the nozzle assembly.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the nozzle assembly as viewed from the valve member side.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the installation flow of the nozzle assembly to the connecting member.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the fixing portion between the nozzle assembly and the connecting member.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a perspective view showing the assembly process of the pipe connecting member to the nozzle assembly.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembly process of the pipe connection member to the nozzle assembly.

[0031] Figure 17A and Figure 17B It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the valve member.

[0032] Figure 18 It is a perspective view showing a modified example in which washing units are included on the outward and return sides of the connecting member.

[0033] Explanation of Figure Numbers

[0034] 10: Wiper device

[0035] 11: Car window glass

[0036] 20: Wiper arm

[0037] 21: Arm head

[0038] 21a: Drive shaft fixing portion

[0039] 21b: First pipe connecting member

[0040] 21c: Handle connection part

[0041] 22: Arm handle

[0042] 22a: Head connection part

[0043] 22b: Sheet fixing portion

[0044] 23: Arm piece

[0045] 23a: U-shaped hook

[0046] 23b: Retaining member

[0047] 30: Wiper strips

[0048] 31: Rubber strip bracket

[0049] 32: Scraper rubber strip

[0050] 32a: Squeegee body

[0051] 32b: Lips

[0052] 32c: Neck

[0053] 32d: Groove

[0054] 34: Bracket

[0055] 35: Vertebrae

[0056] 36: Cover

[0057] 40: Connecting members

[0058] 41: First long side wall

[0059] 42: Second long side wall (side wall)

[0060] 43: The First Bridge Construction Department

[0061] 44: Second Bridge Construction Department

[0062] 45: The Third Bridge Construction Department

[0063] 46: First claw

[0064] 47: Second claw

[0065] 48: Elastic arm

[0066] 48a: Engaging protrusion

[0067] 49: Washing unit installation

[0068] 49a: Rails

[0069] 49b: contact part

[0070] 49c: claw groove

[0071] 49d: Buckle part

[0072] 50: Washing unit

[0073] 60: Cover member (first mounting member)

[0074] 61: Cover body

[0075] 61a: Engaging portion

[0076] 61b: Front end convex part

[0077] 61c: Engaging claw

[0078] 62: Pipe connection component fixing portion

[0079] 62a: Arc-shaped concave portion

[0080] 62b: First fixed claw

[0081] 62c: Second fixed claw

[0082] 70: Valve component (second mounting component)

[0083] 71: Valve body (main body)

[0084] 72: Check valve

[0085] 72a: base

[0086] 72b: Valve body

[0087] 80: Piping connection components

[0088] 81: Piping connection body

[0089] 81a: Side of the table

[0090] 81b: First buckle recess

[0091] 81c: Second buckle recess

[0092] 81d: Dorsal side

[0093] 81e: Insertion

[0094] 82: Pipe connection

[0095] 82a: flange

[0096] 83: Rotating fixed part

[0097] 90: Valve component (second mounting component)

[0098] 100: Connecting components

[0099] BF1: First face of valve member side

[0100] BF2: Second side of valve member

[0101] CF1: First surface on the cover member side

[0102] CF2: Second surface on the cover member side

[0103] CL: Clamping member

[0104] FP1 to FP4: First flow path to fourth flow path (flow path)

[0105] G1~G4: First groove to fourth groove

[0106] H1~H4: First injection hole~fourth injection hole

[0107] HL: Mounting hole

[0108] NA: Nozzle Assembly

[0109] OP: Opening

[0110] P1: Internal pressure

[0111] P2: External pressure

[0112] PN: Connecting pin

[0113] PR: protrusion

[0114] PS: Flow path

[0115] RM: Valve Chamber

[0116] SH: drive shaft

[0117] SL: Slit

[0118] SP: Extension spring

[0119] TB: Second washing tube

[0120] TP: Tapered surface

[0121] TP1: Tapered part on the opening side

[0122] TP2: Tapered part on the insertion side

[0123] W: washing liquid (cleaning liquid)

[0124] W1~W4: First washing liquid~Fourth washing liquid (cleaning liquid)

[0125] WL1: First facing wall

[0126] WL2: Second facing wall DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0127] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0128] Figure 1 A perspective view of a wiper device mounted on a vehicle is shown. Figure 2 Expressed Figure 1 A arrow diagram, Figure 3 An enlarged perspective view of the washing unit is shown. Figure 4shows a cross-sectional view showing the interior of the washing unit, Figures 5A to 5C A diagram showing details of the connecting member is shown. Figure 6 A perspective view showing the inner side of the cover member is shown. 7A to 7C A diagram showing details of a valve member is shown. Figure 8A and Figure 8B A perspective view showing details of a pipe connecting member is shown.

[0129] [Wiper device]

[0130] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, a windshield wiper device 10 wipes the surface of a window glass 11 located in front of a vehicle (not shown), such as an automobile. Typically, a pair of windshield wiper devices 10 are located in front of the vehicle, one on the driver's side and the other on the passenger side. Both wiper devices 10 have the same structure. Therefore, only one of the wiper devices 10 is shown below, and its detailed structure is described.

[0131] The wiper device 10 includes a wiper arm 20 and a wiper strip 30. The wiper strip 30 is rotatably mounted on the front end of the wiper arm 20. The wiper strip 30 reciprocates across a wiping range (not shown) formed between a lower reversal position and an upper reversal position on the surface of the vehicle window glass 11.

[0132] Specifically, the wiper device 10 swings via a drive shaft SH provided on the vehicle. The drive shaft SH is, for example, the output shaft of a wiper motor (not shown) mounted near the bulkhead of the vehicle. The bottom end of the wiper arm 20 is securely fastened to the front end of the drive shaft SH via a fastening nut (not shown).

[0133] [Wiper arm]

[0134] The wiper arm 20 extends along the longitudinal direction of the wiper strip 30 and includes an arm head 21, an arm handle 22, and an arm piece 23. Specifically, the bottom end of the arm handle 22 is rotatably connected to the front end of the arm head 21, and the bottom end of the arm piece 23 is fixed to the front end of the arm handle 22 by caulking.

[0135] [Arm head]

[0136] The bottom end of the arm head 21 is provided with a drive shaft fixing portion 21a, which is fixed to the front end of the drive shaft SH. Thus, the wiper arm 20 is swung by the drive shaft SH. Furthermore, a first pipe connecting member 21b is mounted near the drive shaft fixing portion 21a. The front ends of the first washing pipes (not shown) installed on both sides of the vehicle are connected to the first pipe connecting member 21b.

[0137] Here, the bottom end of the first washing pipe provided on both sides of the vehicle is connected to a washing pump (not shown) provided in the engine room of the vehicle. Figure 1 As shown by the dotted arrow, the cleaning liquid W is supplied to the first pipe connecting member 21b.

[0138] In addition, the washing liquid W corresponds to the cleaning liquid in the present invention.

[0139] Then, the washer fluid W supplied to the first pipe connection member 21 b flows through the second washer pipe TB provided along the wiper arm 20 , and is then supplied to the washer unit 50 provided at the longitudinal center of the wiper strip 30 .

[0140] Here, the washing liquid W supplied to the washing unit 50 is branched into four streams inside the washing unit 50 (see Figure 6 ). And, the washing liquid W branched inside the washing unit 50 is as follows Figure 1 As shown by the dashed arrows, the first, second, third, and fourth washing liquids W1, W2, W3, and W4 are sprayed to different locations in four directions along the longitudinal direction of the wiper strip 30. As a result, the washing liquid W covers four locations on the surface of the vehicle window glass 11 near the wiper strip 30 and on the roadside.

[0141] Furthermore, a handle connection portion 21c is provided at the front end of the arm head 21 to which the bottom end of the arm handle 22 is rotatably connected. Specifically, the arm handle 22 is connected to the handle connection portion 21c in a back-lockable (erectible) manner, and the back-locked state can be maintained by the spring force of a tension spring SP provided between the arm head 21 and the arm handle 22.

[0142] [Arm handle]

[0143] The cross-section of the arm 22 in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal direction is formed into a substantially U-shaped shape. As a result, the second washer pipe TB and the tension spring SP can be housed inside the arm 22. As a result, the overall appearance of the wiper device 10 improves.

[0144] A head connection portion 22a is provided at the bottom end of the arm handle 22, and the head connection portion 22a is rotatably connected to the handle connection portion 21c of the arm head 21. Furthermore, a piece fixing portion 22b is provided at the front end of the arm handle 22, and the piece fixing portion 22b fixes the bottom end of the arm piece 23 by caulking.

[0145] Furthermore, the second washing pipe TB housed inside the arm handle 22 is led out of the arm handle 22 at the sheet fixing portion 22b. Furthermore, the second washing pipe TB led out of the arm handle 22 is substantially straight along the sheet fixing portion 22b and the arm sheet 23 without any slack.

[0146] [Arm piece]

[0147] The arm piece 23 is formed in a rod shape extending substantially straight along the longitudinal direction of the wiper strip 30 . The bottom end of the arm piece 23 is fixed to the piece fixing portion 22 b of the arm handle 22 . A U-shaped hook 23 a is provided at the front end of the arm piece 23 .

[0148] Specifically, the connecting member 40 of the wiper strip 30 is connected via the clamping member CL (see Figure 4 ) and is rotatably mounted on the U-shaped hook 23a. Thus, the longitudinal center portion of the wiper strip 30 is mounted on the front end portion of the arm piece 23, and the wiper strip 30 can slide along the shape of the window glass 11.

[0149] A holding member 23b for holding the second washing tube TB is attached to the substantially longitudinal center of the arm piece 23. The holding member 23b holds the front end of the second washing tube TB along the arm piece 23. This ensures that the second washing tube TB is not loose relative to the arm piece 23.

[0150] [Wiper strips]

[0151] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the wiper strip 30 includes a rubber strip holder 31 and a wiper rubber strip 32. The rubber strip holder 31 holds the wiper rubber strip 32, and the center portion of the rubber strip holder 31 in the longitudinal direction is rotatably connected to the U-shaped hook 23a of the arm piece 23.

[0152] The blade holder 31 comprises a single connecting member 40, a pair of brackets 34, a pair of vertebrae 35, and a pair of covers 36. The connecting member 40 holds the pair of vertebrae 35. Furthermore, a clamping member CL is rotatably mounted on the connecting member 40, to which the U-shaped hook 23a of the arm 23 is fixed. Furthermore, the pair of vertebrae 35 held by the connecting member 40 hold the blade body 32a of the blade rubber strip 32.

[0153] A pair of brackets 34 are arranged on both sides (the front and bottom ends) of the connecting member 40 in the longitudinal direction, and similarly to the connecting member 40, they hold a pair of vertebrae 35. Furthermore, a pair of covers 36 are provided on the longitudinal sides of the brackets 34 opposite the connecting member 40 and fixed to the ends of the vertebrae 35. The covers 36 cover the brackets 34, the vertebrae 35, and the ends of the wiper strip 32, thereby improving the overall appearance of the wiper strip 30.

[0154] [Scraper strip]

[0155] like Figure 4As shown, the wiper rubber strip 32 includes a blade body 32a held by a pair of vertebrae 35 and a lip 32b that slides against the surface of the vehicle window glass 11. Furthermore, a neck 32c is provided between the blade body 32a and the lip 32b. The neck 32c is narrower and more flexible than the lip 32b.

[0156] As a result, the wiper strip 32 reciprocates on the surface of the window glass 11, and the lip 32b moves obliquely. As a result, the corner of the front end of the lip 32b wipes off rainwater and dust attached to the surface of the window glass 11. In other words, the wiper strip 30 wipes the surface of the window glass 11.

[0157] The surface of the window glass 11 corresponds to the wiping surface in the present invention.

[0158] The blade rubber strip 32 is provided over the entire area of ​​the blade support 31 in the longitudinal direction, and its cross-sectional shape along the short side is the same throughout the entire area of ​​the blade rubber strip 32 in the longitudinal direction. In addition, a pair of grooves 32d are provided along the longitudinal direction of the blade rubber strip 32 on both sides of the blade body 32a in the longitudinal direction, i.e., on both sides (the forward side and the return side) of the wiping direction of the blade rubber strip 32. A portion of the vertebra 35 in the longitudinal direction ( Figure 4 Approximately 1 / 3 of the portion in the left and right directions) enters these groove portions 32d respectively.

[0159] Thus, the blade rubber 32 is held by the connecting member 40 and the bracket 34 via the pair of vertebrae 35. That is, the blade rubber 32 is attached to the connecting member 40.

[0160] [vertebra]

[0161] The pair of vertebrae 35 are formed into elongated rods and function as leaf springs, and are held by the connecting member 40 and the bracket 34. The pair of vertebrae 35 are provided over the entire longitudinal direction of the strip bracket 31, and their length is substantially equal to that of the blade strip 32.

[0162] The pair of vertebrae 35, in a free state with no external force applied, are curved to a predetermined curvature. Specifically, the curvature of the vertebrae 35 is smaller than that of the window glass 11. This allows the entire longitudinal area of ​​the lip 32b to conform to the curvature of the window glass 11, ensuring close contact with the surface. In other words, by making the curvature of the vertebrae 35 smaller than that of the window glass 11, sufficient wiping performance of the wiper rubber strip 32 is ensured.

[0163] Furthermore, the other portions of the pair of vertebrae 35 in the short side direction, that is, the portions not entering the groove 32d, are Figure 4 The other approximately 2 / 3 of the left and right directions are provided on the connecting member 40 by a pair of first claws 46 and a pair of second claws 47 (see Figure 4 and Figures 5A to 5C ) is retained and is retained by a pair of brackets 34.

[0164] In addition, an engaging hole (not shown) is provided in the substantially central portion in the longitudinal direction of the vertebra 35, and an engaging protrusion 48a (see FIG. Figures 5A to 5C ) is snapped into the engaging hole. Thus, the pair of vertebrae 35 becomes a state where the movement in the longitudinal direction thereof is restricted relative to the connecting member 40.

[0165] Furthermore, cover fixing holes (not shown) are provided on both sides of the vertebra 35 in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, engaging protrusions (not shown) provided on the inner side of the cover 36 engage with the cover fixing holes. This secures the cover 36 to both sides of the vertebra 35 in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the bracket 34 is held by both the connecting member 40 and the cover 36.

[0166] Here, the bracket 34 holding the vertebra 35 is formed of a flexible plastic material or the like. Thus, the bracket 34 can follow the curved shape of the vertebra 35 and easily deform elastically. Therefore, the bracket 34 does not degrade the wiping performance of the wiper strip 30.

[0167] [Connecting parts]

[0168] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the connecting member 40 is rotatably mounted on the U-shaped hook 23 a of the arm piece 23 via the clamping member CL. That is, the connecting member 40 is rotatably mounted on the wiper arm 20 together with the wiper rubber 32 .

[0169] like Figures 5A to 5C As shown, the connecting member 40 is formed into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape by injection molding a resin material such as plastic, and extends along the longitudinal direction of the wiper strip 30. The connecting member 40 is a component that needs to maintain the rigidity of the pair of vertebrae 35 and is made of a relatively high hardness plastic material.

[0170] The connecting member 40 includes a first long side wall portion 41 and a second long side wall portion 42, which extend along the longitudinal direction of the wiper strip 30 and stand perpendicular to the vehicle window glass 11. The first long side wall portion 41 is positioned toward the front (returning) side of the vehicle when the wiper strip 30 is in the downwardly reversed position relative to the vehicle window glass 11. In contrast, the second long side wall portion 42 is positioned toward the rear (outward) side of the vehicle when the wiper strip 30 is in the downwardly reversed position relative to the vehicle window glass 11.

[0171] Furthermore, a first bridge portion 43, a second bridge portion 44, and a third bridge portion 45 formed in a substantially flat plate shape are provided between the first long side wall portion 41 and the second long side wall portion 42. The first bridge portion 43 is disposed at the longitudinal front end side ( Figures 5A to 5COn the other hand, the third bridge portion 45 is arranged on the bottom end side of the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40 ( Figures 5A to 5C Furthermore, the second bridge portion 44 is disposed between the first bridge portion 43 and the third bridge portion 45 in the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40 .

[0172] Furthermore, a connection pin PN for swingably connecting the clamping member CL is provided between the first long side wall portion 41 and the second long side wall portion 42 and between the first bridge portion 43 and the second bridge portion 44 in the longitudinal direction of the connection member 40 .

[0173] Furthermore, a pair of first claws 46 and a pair of second claws 47 are provided on the window glass 11 side (back side) of the connecting member 40. Specifically, the pair of first claws 46 are arranged at positions corresponding to the first bridge portion 43 in the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40, and the pair of second claws 47 are arranged at positions corresponding to the second bridge portion 44 in the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40.

[0174] Furthermore, a pair of first claws 46 and a pair of second claws 47 are provided on the first long side wall 41 and the second long side wall 42, respectively, and protrude toward the inside of the connecting member 40. Furthermore, the first claws 46 and the second claws 47 each retain a pair of vertebrae 35. Specifically, the first claws 46 and the second claws 47 retain the vertebrae 35 at intervals along their longitudinal direction.

[0175] Furthermore, if Figures 5A to 5C As shown, the second bridge portion 44 of the connecting member 40 is provided with an elastic arm portion 48 extending to the front end side of the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40. Figures 5A to 5C A pair of engaging protrusions 48a are provided on the left side of the vehicle window 11. These engaging protrusions 48a protrude to the side of the vehicle window glass 11 and engage with engaging holes (not shown) respectively provided on a pair of vertebrae 35.

[0176] [Washing unit installation part]

[0177] Furthermore, a washing unit mounting portion 49 is provided on the outward side of the second long side wall 42. Here, the second long side wall 42 is provided on one side of the connecting member 40 in the wiping direction of the blade rubber 32, which is equivalent to one side wall portion in the present invention.

[0178] Furthermore, a washing unit 50 is mounted on the washing unit mounting portion 49 of the second long side wall portion 42 (see Figure 12 In this way, the washer unit 50 and the wiper rubber strip 32 are rotatably mounted on the wiper arm 20 via the connecting member 40 .

[0179] The washing unit mounting portion 49 includes a pair of guide rails 49a that slidably guide the washing unit 50. Specifically, the guide rails 49a are formed into a generally L-shape when viewing the connecting member 40 from the front and back sides, and extend between the front and back sides of the second long side wall 42. The washing unit 50 can be mounted to the connecting member 40 from the front toward the back along the guide rails 49a.

[0180] Furthermore, the washer unit mounting portion 49 is provided with an abutment portion 49b against which the valve member 70 of the washer unit 50 abuts. Specifically, the abutment portion 49b protrudes from the second long side wall portion 42 at a predetermined height toward the roadside in the wiping direction of the wiper strip 30. Furthermore, when the washer unit 50 is mounted to the washer unit mounting portion 49, the valve body 71 of the valve member 70 elastically deforms while abutting against the abutment portion 49b. This secures the washer unit 50 to the connecting member 40 without any looseness.

[0181] Furthermore, on both sides of the abutting portion 49b in the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40, there are provided front end protrusions 61b (see FIG. 1 ) for engaging the claws 61c provided on the cover member 60. Figure 6 ) respectively enter the claw grooves 49c. A pair of front end protrusions 61b respectively enter these claw grooves 49c. On the longitudinal side of the claw grooves 49c, there are provided snap portions 49d for the front end protrusions 61b to snap into. Furthermore, by snapping the pair of front end protrusions 61b into the pair of snap portions 49d, the washing unit 50 is fixed to the connecting member 40 in a state that prevents it from coming off.

[0182] Furthermore, a tapered surface TP is provided near the latch portion 49d of the abutment portion 49b. This tapered surface TP guides the valve body 71 of the valve member 70 as it moves toward the abutment portion 49b. This allows the valve body 71 of the valve member 70 to easily abut the abutment portion 49b while elastically deforming. In other words, the tapered surface TP improves the ease with which the washing unit 50 can be assembled onto the connecting member 40.

[0183] [Washing unit]

[0184] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, a washer unit 50 is installed on the second long side wall portion 42 (road side) of the connecting member 40. The washer unit 50 sprays washer liquid W (first washer liquid W1 to fourth washer liquid W4) toward the surface of the window glass 11. Figures 6 to 8A and Figure 8B As shown, it includes a cover member 60 , a valve member 70 and a pipe connecting member 80 .

[0185] Specifically, if Figure 1As shown, the washing unit 50 sprays the washing liquid W flowing through the second washing pipe TB at different locations along the longitudinal direction of the wiper rubber strip 32 on one side (the outward side) of the wiping direction of the wiper rubber strip 32. Specifically, the washing liquid W is branched into four streams within the washing unit 50: a first washing liquid W1 through a fourth washing liquid W4.

[0186] [Cover member]

[0187] like Figure 6 As shown, the cover member 60 is formed of a resin material such as plastic into a generally box shape and includes a cover body 61 and a pipe connecting member fixing portion 62. Specifically, the cover body 61 is disposed on the window glass 11 side (back side) of the cover member 60, and the pipe connecting member fixing portion 62 is disposed on the side of the cover member 60 opposite to the window glass 11 side (front side).

[0188] On both sides of the longitudinal direction of the cover body 61 (the front end side and the bottom end side), there are respectively provided engaging portions 61a, which engage with a pair of guide rails 49a of the washing unit mounting portion 49 (see Figures 5A to 5C Specifically, each engaging portion 61 a protrudes toward both sides in the longitudinal direction of the cover member 60 at a predetermined height.

[0189] The cover member 60 is disposed facing the second long-side wall portion 42 (washing unit mounting portion 49 ), and corresponds to a first mounting member in the present invention.

[0190] Furthermore, a pair of engaging claws 61c having a front end convex portion 61b are provided on the inner side of the cover body 61. These engaging claws 61c are provided in the thickness direction of the cover body 61, that is, in the direction of the blade rubber strip 32 ( Figure 2 and references Figure 4 ) has flexibility in the wiping direction. And, the front end protrusion 61b of the engaging claw portion 61c enters the claw groove 49c of the washing unit mounting portion 49 (refer to Figures 5A to 5C ) and snapped into the snap portion 49d (see Figure 14 ).

[0191] Furthermore, a valve member side first surface BF1 (see FIG. 1 ) for forming the valve body 71 of the valve member 70 is provided on the inner side of the cover body 61. 7A to 7C ) is abutted against the cover member side first surface CF1. Moreover, on the inner side of the cover body 61, there is provided a valve member side second surface BF2 (refer to 7A to 7C ) is abutted against the second surface CF2 of the cover member side.

[0192] Here, if Figure 6 As shown, the cover member side first surface CF1 is indicated by light hatching, and the cover member side second surface CF2 is indicated by dark hatching.

[0193] Specifically, the cover member side first surface CF1 extends straight along the longitudinal direction of the cover body 61, and the cover member side second surface CF2 is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the cover body 61. In addition, a check valve 72 for the valve member 70 is provided in the space approximately in the center of the inner side of the cover member 60 (see FIG. 7A to 7C ) is used to house the valve chamber RM.

[0194] Furthermore, the first cover member surface CF1 and the second cover member surface CF2 are provided with a first groove G1, a second groove G2, a third groove G3, and a fourth groove G4, which branch the washing liquid W after passing through the check valve 72 into four branches: the first washing liquid W1 to the fourth washing liquid W4. Furthermore, the first groove G1 to the fourth groove G4 form a portion of the first flow path FP1, the second flow path FP2, the third flow path FP3, and the fourth flow path FP4 through which the first washing liquid W1 to the fourth washing liquid W4 flow.

[0195] Here, the second groove G2 and the third groove G3 merge into a single groove on the valve chamber RM side (upstream side). Furthermore, the first groove G1 is provided with the cover member side second surface CF2. Furthermore, these first through fourth grooves G1 through G4 are each recessed to a predetermined depth from the cover member side first surface CF1 and the cover member side second surface CF2 toward the wiping direction of the wiper rubber 32.

[0196] like Figure 6 As shown, an arc-shaped recess 62a is provided at the longitudinal front end (right side in the figure) of the pipe connecting member fixing portion 62. Furthermore, a first fixing claw 62b and a second fixing claw 62c are provided at the longitudinal bottom end (left side in the figure) of the pipe connecting member fixing portion 62.

[0197] Specifically, the rotation fixing portion 83 of the pipe connecting member 80 (see Figure 8A and Figure 8B ) is inserted into the arc-shaped recess 62a, and the arc-shaped recess 62a supports the rotation fixing portion 83 so that it can rotate freely. Moreover, the first fixing claw 62b and the second fixing claw 62c are arranged at different positions in the longitudinal direction of the pipe connecting member fixing portion 62. In addition, the first fixing claw 62b enters the first buckle recess 81b (refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B On the other hand, the second fixing claw 62c enters the second buckle recess 81c (refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B ) and fixed.

[0198] Here, the first fixing claw 62b of the first fixing claw 62b and the second fixing claw 62c can be moved along the scraper rubber strip 32 (refer to Figure 4 Specifically, the first fixing claw 62b can be moved relative to the second fixing claw 62c by the load of external force.

[0199] Thus, by inserting the rotation fixing portion 83 into the arc-shaped recess 62a and fixing the first fixing claw 62b and the second fixing claw 62c of the pipe connection member fixing portion 62 to the first snap recess 81b and the second snap recess 81c of the pipe connection body 81 respectively, the pipe connection member 80 is fixed relative to the cover member 60.

[0200] [Valve components]

[0201] like 7A to 7C As shown, the valve member 70 is made of a resin material such as silicone rubber and includes a valve body 71 and a check valve 72 integrally provided with the valve body 71. That is, the valve member 70 is flexibly elastically deformable and has a lower hardness than the cover member 60.

[0202] The valve body 71 is formed into a substantially flat plate shape, and the wiper rubber strip 32 (see Figure 4 ) is provided with a first surface BF1 on the valve member side and a second surface BF2 on the valve member side in the wiping direction. 7A to 7C As shown, the valve member side first surface BF1 is indicated by light hatching, and the valve member side second surface BF2 is indicated by dark hatching.

[0203] The valve member 70 corresponds to the second mounting member in the present invention, and the valve body 71 corresponds to the body portion in the present invention.

[0204] When the washing unit 50 is assembled, the valve body 71 is disposed between the second long side wall 42 of the connecting member 40 and the cover body 61 of the cover member 60 and is fixed to both the second long side wall 42 and the cover body 61 .

[0205] Specifically, the valve member side first surface BF1 abuts against the cover member side first surface CF1 inside the cover body 61 (see Figure 6 ) and are in close contact with each other. As a result, the second groove G2 to the fourth groove G4 (see Figure 6 ) is covered by the valve member side first surface BF1 of the valve body 71. Therefore, inside the washing unit 50, second flow paths FP2 to fourth flow paths FP4 (see Figure 6 ).

[0206] Furthermore, when the washing unit 50 is assembled, the valve member side second surface BF2 abuts against the cover member side second surface CF2 inside the cover body 61 (see FIG. Figure 6 ) and are in close contact with each other. Thus, the first groove G1 (refer to Figure 6 ) is covered by the valve member side second surface BF2 of the valve body 71. Therefore, a first flow path FP1 (see FIG. 1 ) for the first washing liquid W1 to flow is formed inside the washing unit 50. Figure 6 ).

[0207] Thus, the valve member-side first surface BF1 and the valve member-side second surface BF2 of the valve body 71 of the valve member 70 cover the first through fourth grooves G1 through G4, thereby forming the first through fourth flow paths FP1 through FP4. Specifically, the first through fourth flow paths FP1 through FP4, through which the first through fourth washing liquids W1 through W4 flow, are disposed between the cover member 60 and the valve member 70.

[0208] In addition, the first flow path FP1 to the fourth flow path FP4 correspond to the flow paths in the present invention.

[0209] Furthermore, the check valve 72 is provided so as to protrude relative to the valve body 71 to the side (outward side) where the first valve member side surface BF1 and the second valve member side surface BF2 are provided. When the washing unit 50 is assembled, the check valve 72 is housed in the valve chamber RM of the cover member 60 (see FIG. Figure 6 Furthermore, the check valve 72 is hollow and elastically deformable, thereby being openable and closable within the valve chamber RM, that is, between the second long-side wall portion 42 of the connecting member 40 and the cover member 60. Thus, the hollow check valve 72 is disposed on the upstream side of the first to fourth flow passages FP1 to FP4.

[0210] Specifically, the check valve 72 includes a base 72a formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and a valve body 72b protruding from the base 72a toward the window glass 11 side (back side). In addition, an insertion portion 81e for the pipe connection member 80 is formed on the side (front side) opposite to the valve body 72b side of the base 72a (see FIG. Figure 8A and Figure 8B ) is inserted into the opening OP.

[0211] Here, on the inlet side of the opening OP into which the insertion portion 81e is inserted, Figure 7A As shown in the [front side] of FIG. 8 , an opening-side tapered portion TP1 is formed to guide the connection (insertion) of the insertion portion 81 e.

[0212] The outlet side of the valve body 72b is located upstream of the first to fourth flow paths FP1 to FP4. The washing liquid W flowing out of the valve body 72b flows through the first to fourth flow paths FP1 to FP4 to become the first to fourth washing liquids W1 to W4.

[0213] In addition, a first injection hole H1, a second injection hole H2, a third injection hole H3 and a fourth injection hole H4 are provided on the downstream side of the first flow path FP1 to the fourth flow path FP4 formed in the washing unit 50 (see FIG. Figure 12 and Figure 13 That is, the washing unit 50 includes a total of four first to fourth spray holes H1 to H4.

[0214] Here, the second to fourth spray holes H2 to H4 spray the second to fourth washing liquids W2 to W4 respectively on one side (outward side) of the wiping direction of the scraper rubber strip 32 and near the scraper rubber strip 32. In contrast, the first spray hole H1 sprays the first washing liquid W1 on one side (outward side) of the wiping direction of the scraper rubber strip 32 and away from the scraper rubber strip 32. Figure 1 As shown, the first to fourth spray holes H1 to H4 spray the first to fourth washing liquids W1 to W4 at different positions in the longitudinal direction of the scraper rubber strip 32 .

[0215] like Figure 1 As shown, the first washer fluid W1 is sprayed at the longitudinal leading end of the wiper rubber strip 32, away from the blade rubber strip 32, while the fourth washer fluid W4 is sprayed at the longitudinal bottom end of the wiper rubber strip 32, near the blade rubber strip 32. This is because, during oscillation of the wiper device 10, the longitudinal leading end of the wiper rubber strip 32 moves at a higher speed than the longitudinal bottom end. By displacing the spraying positions at the longitudinal leading end and the longitudinal bottom end of the wiper rubber strip 32, dust and the like adhering to the surface of the vehicle window glass 11 can be fully wetted, thereby improving cleaning performance.

[0216] And, as Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the first to fourth injection holes H1 to H4 are arranged on the surface of the window glass 11 closer to the connecting pin PN connecting the wiper arm 20 and the connecting member 40 .

[0217] More specifically, Figure 2The symbol C, indicated by the dotted chain line, represents the axis of the connecting pin PN. The first through fourth injection holes H1 through H4 are positioned closer to the surface of the window glass 11 than the axis C. As a result, the first through fourth washer liquids W1 through W4 sprayed from the first through fourth injection holes H1 through H4 reach the surface of the window glass 11 over a relatively short spray distance. This prevents the spray position from shifting significantly due to wind and other factors during vehicle travel.

[0218] like 7A to 7C As shown, the valve body 72b employs a so-called duckbill valve structure. Specifically, the valve body 72b is a single-shaped check valve structure that does not include a valve body or a coil spring to open and close the flow path. Furthermore, the valve body 72b extends along both sides (the front and bottom ends) of the wiper strip 30 in the longitudinal direction. This prevents the washer unit 50 from becoming larger on both sides (the forward and return sides) of the wiper rubber strip 32 in the wiping direction.

[0219] Specifically, a slit SL is provided on the outlet side of the valve body 72b, that is, on the downstream side of the valve body 72b in the flow direction of the washer liquid W. The slit SL is openable and closable in the valve chamber RM between the second long side wall portion 42 and the cover member 60. The slit SL is formed by a pair of first opposing walls WL1 facing each other in the long side direction of the wiper rubber 32 and a pair of second opposing walls WL2 facing each other in the wiping direction of the wiper rubber 32.

[0220] Furthermore, the thickness t1 of the first facing wall WL1 along the longitudinal direction of the blade rubber strip 32 is thicker than the thickness t2 of the second facing wall WL2 along the wiping direction of the blade rubber strip 32 (t1>t2). As a result, the valve body 72b elastically deforms against the restoring force of the valve body 72b as the internal pressure increases, thereby Figure 7C As shown by the dotted arrow Open, the valve can be opened toward the wiping direction of the scraper rubber strip 32.

[0221] Here, when the internal pressure of the check valve 72 rises (when the washer pump is driven), the slit SL opens by overcoming the restoring force of the check valve 72. Furthermore, when the internal pressure of the check valve 72 drops (when the washer pump is stopped), the slit SL closes due to the restoring force of the check valve 72. The opening and closing operation of the valve body 72b will be described in detail later.

[0222] [Pipe connection components]

[0223] like Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the pipe connecting member 80 is formed of a resin material such as plastic into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and includes a pipe connecting body 81. Moreover, at the bottom end side of the pipe connecting body 81 in the long side direction, there is a pipe connecting body 81 extending along the long side direction of the scraper rubber strip 32 and connected to the second washing pipe TB (refer to FIG. Figure 3) of the pipe connection portion 82. Furthermore, an arc-shaped recess 62a (see FIG. 1 ) is provided on the front end side of the pipe connection body 81 in the longitudinal direction, that is, on the opposite side of the pipe connection member 80 in the longitudinal direction from the pipe connection portion 82. Figure 6 ) within the rotation fixing portion 83.

[0224] Here, the pipe connecting member 80 is attached to the cover member 60 and has the function of supplying the washer fluid W flowing through the second washer pipe TB provided along the wiper arm 20 to the first to fourth flow paths FP1 to FP4. Furthermore, like the cover member 60, the pipe connecting member 80 is made of a harder plastic than the valve member 70.

[0225] The pipe connection part 82 is formed into a roughly cylindrical shape, and the front end side of the pipe connection part 82 in the longitudinal direction is integrally connected to the bottom end side of the pipe connection body 81 in the longitudinal direction. In addition, a flange portion 82a bulging outward in the radial direction is provided at the bottom end side of the pipe connection part 82 in the longitudinal direction. This prevents the second washing pipe TB connected to the pipe connection part 82 from falling off. In addition, the washing liquid W flowing from the second washing pipe TB into the pipe connection part 82 passes through the flow path PS inside the pipe connection body 81 (refer to Figure 9A and Figure 9B ) and reaches the first to fourth flow paths FP1 to FP4 from the inside of the check valve 72.

[0226] like Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the rotation fixing portion 83 is formed into a substantially half cylindrical shape and is integrally provided at the longitudinal front end of the pipe connecting body 81. Specifically, the rotation fixing portion 83 protrudes to the longitudinal front end of the pipe connecting body 81, and its axis R extends along the wiping direction (the outward and return sides) of the wiper strip 30.

[0227] Thus, the cover member 60 is inserted into the arc-shaped recess 62a (see Figure 6 ) can rotate around the axis R (see Figure 16 ). In other words, Figure 16 As shown, the pipe connecting member 80 is rotatable relative to the cover member 60 about the rotation fixing portion 83 .

[0228] The pipe connection body 81 is formed into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and extends along the longitudinal direction of the wiper strip 30. In addition, a first snap-fit ​​recess 81b and a second snap-fit ​​recess 81c are provided on the side of the pipe connection body 81 where the front side surface 81a is provided. Specifically, the first snap-fit ​​recess 81b and the second snap-fit ​​recess 81c are arranged at different positions along the longitudinal direction of the pipe connection body 81. In addition, the first fixing claw 62b of the cover member 60 (see Figure 6) is snapped into the first snapping recess 81b. On the other hand, the second fixing claw 62c (refer to Figure 6 ) snaps into the second snap recess 81c.

[0229] Furthermore, an insertion portion 81e is provided on the side of the pipe connection body 81 where the back side surface 81d is provided. The insertion portion 81e is disposed between the pipe connection portion 82 and the rotation fixing portion 83 in the longitudinal direction of the pipe connection member 80 and extends in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the pipe connection portion 82 (from the front side toward the back side). Specifically, the insertion portion 81e protrudes from the back side surface 81d toward the window glass 11 (the back side) at a predetermined height.

[0230] The insertion portion 81e is formed into a substantially elliptical shape and is inserted into the opening OP (see FIG. 1 ) provided at the base 72a of the valve member 70 when the washing unit 50 is assembled. 7A to 7C ) and fixed. That is, the insertion portion 81e is inserted from the front side toward the back side of the washing unit 50 into the opening OP of the base 72a. As a result, the washing liquid W flowing through the flow path PS inside the pipe connecting member 80 flows into the inside of the check valve 72 (base 72a and valve body 72b).

[0231] Moreover, if Figure 8B As shown in the [back perspective view] of FIG, an insertion portion side tapered portion TP2 for guiding connection (insertion) toward the opening OP is formed on the insertion side, that is, the distal end side, of the insertion portion 81e.

[0232] Thus, the insertion portion side tapered portion TP2 of the insertion portion 81e cooperates with the opening portion side tapered portion TP1 of the opening portion OP, thereby guiding the connection between the insertion portion 81e and the opening portion OP, thereby facilitating the connection between the insertion portion 81e and the opening portion OP.

[0233] [Washing liquid flow path]

[0234] Next, in the wiper strip 30 formed as described above, in particular, the flow path of the washer fluid W inside the washer unit 50 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0235] Figure 9A and Figure 9B The valve body is shown in the following figure: Figure 4 An enlarged view of the dotted circle B.

[0236] First, the operator operates the washing switch (not shown) provided in the vehicle, thereby driving the washing pump. Figure 1 As shown, the washing liquid W is supplied to the interior of the second washing pipe TB via the first pipe connection member 21 b . Then, the washing liquid W supplied to the interior of the second washing pipe TB is supplied to the interior of the washing unit 50 .

[0237] Next, the washing liquid W supplied to the interior of the washing unit 50 is as follows. Figure 9A As shown by the dotted arrow in [Washing Pump Drive], the liquid flows through the flow path PS of the pipe connecting member 80 and is supplied to the interior of the base 72a and valve body 72b of the check valve 72 forming the valve member 70. As a result, the internal pressure P1 of the valve body 72b becomes greater than the external pressure P2 on the downstream side thereof (P1>P2).

[0238] As a result, the flexible valve body 72b overcomes the restoring force of the valve body 72b itself and opens (opens the valve) as shown by the dotted arrow Open. 7A to 7C As shown, the valve body 72 b opens in both directions of the wiping direction of the wiper rubber 32 (the forward direction and the return direction).

[0239] Then, the washing liquid W flowing out to the downstream side of the valve body 72b flows into the valve chamber RM inside the cover member 60, and then, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown, the cleaning liquid W is branched into the first to fourth flow paths FP1 to FP4. As a result, the cleaning liquid W is converted into the first to fourth cleaning liquids W1 to W4 and is discharged from the first to fourth injection holes H1 to H4 (see FIG. Figure 12 and Figure 13 ) is sprayed toward the surface of the vehicle window glass 11.

[0240] After the surface of the vehicle window glass 11 is cleaned, when the operator stops the operation of the washing switch, the washing pump stops. Figure 9B Specifically, the second washing pipe TB (refer to Figure 1 ), washing liquid W (see hatched area) remains inside the pipe connection member 80 and valve member 70 of the washing unit 50. This is because when the driving of the washing pump stops, the internal pressure P1 of the valve body 72b decreases and the valve body 72b closes (closes) due to the restoring force of the valve body 72b itself. Specifically, by the closing action of the valve body 72b, as shown in FIG. Figure 9B As shown by the dotted arrow ×, air is prevented from flowing back into the interior of the valve body 72b.

[0241] Thus, when the washer pump is driven next (the next time the washer pump is driven), the first to fourth washer liquids W1 to W4 can be sprayed from the first to fourth spray holes H1 to H4 toward the surface of the window glass 11 more quickly (response is improved).

[0242] [Assembly method]

[0243] Next, a method for assembling the wiper strip 30 formed as described above, particularly a process for mounting (fixing) the washer unit 50 to the connecting member 40 , will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0244] Figure 10 Shows an exploded perspective view of the washing unit. Figure 11 A diagram showing the assembly flow of the nozzle assembly is shown. Figure 12 A perspective view of the nozzle assembly as viewed from the valve member side is shown. Figure 13 A diagram showing the installation process of the nozzle assembly to the connecting member is shown. Figure 14 A cross-sectional view showing the fixing portion of the nozzle assembly and the connecting member is shown. Figure 15 A perspective view showing the assembly process of the pipe connection member to the nozzle assembly is shown. Figure 16 A cross-sectional view showing the assembly process of the pipe connection member to the nozzle assembly is shown.

[0245] First, if Figure 10 As shown in FIG, a cover member 60, a valve member 70 and a pipe connection member 80 manufactured through independent manufacturing processes are prepared. Figure 10 In the embodiment, the connecting member 40 for assembling the washing unit 50 is shown as an independent body, but the scraper rubber strip 32 (refer to Figure 4 ) etc. are assembled to the connecting member 40.

[0246] Next, if Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown by the dashed arrow M1, the cover member 60 and the valve member 70 are brought into contact with each other in the wiping direction of the wiper rubber strip 32. Specifically, while the check valve 72 of the valve member 70 is inserted into the valve chamber RM of the cover member 60, the valve member-side first surface BF1 of the valve member 70 is brought into contact with the cover member-side first surface CF1 of the cover member 60. Furthermore, the valve member-side second surface BF2 of the valve member 70 is brought into contact with the cover member-side second surface CF2 of the cover member 60.

[0247] Thus, the assembly of the cover member 60 and the valve member 70 is completed. Figure 12 Here, the cover member 60 is made of a resin material such as plastic having a higher hardness than the valve member 70 made of silicone rubber or the like, so the first to fourth grooves G1 to G4 of the cover member 60 themselves are not deformed.

[0248] Furthermore, the valve member side first surface BF1 and the valve member side second surface BF2 are sufficient to cover the first groove G1 to the fourth groove G4, and are not strongly pressed against the cover member side first surface CF1 and the cover member side second surface CF2. Therefore, the flow path area of ​​the first flow path FP1 to the fourth flow path FP4 does not change significantly, and the first cleaning liquid W1 to the fourth cleaning liquid W4 in each product (see Figure 1 ) will not produce deviation in the injection amount.

[0249] Next, if Figure 10 and Figure 13 As shown by the dashed arrow M2, the completed nozzle assembly NA is mounted on the washing unit mounting portion 49 of the connecting member 40. Specifically, the valve member 70 side of the nozzle assembly NA is positioned facing the washing unit mounting portion 49, with the valve member 70 facing the front side (upper side in the figure) of the connecting member 40. Furthermore, the engaging portion 61a of the cover member 60 is engaged with the guide rail 49a of the washing unit mounting portion 49.

[0250] Then, the cover member 60 is slid relative to the washing unit mounting portion 49, and this sliding action is continued. Figure 14 As shown, the front end projections 61 b ​​forming the engaging claw portions 61 c of the cover member 60 cross the tapered surface TP, enter the claw grooves 49 c , and are engaged with the respective engaging portions 49 d .

[0251] Thus, the cover member 60 is locked relative to the connecting member 40, and the assembly of the nozzle assembly NA to the washing unit mounting portion 49 is completed. Figure 14 ) while undergoing slight elastic deformation, it is clamped by the abutment portion 49b of the washing unit mounting portion 49 and the first and second cover member side surfaces CF1 and CF2 of the cover member 60. Thus, the valve body 71 also functions as a buffer, preventing the cover member 60 from shaking relative to the connecting member 40.

[0252] Next, if Figure 10 and Figure 15 As shown by the dotted arrow M3, the rotation fixing portion 83 of the pipe connecting member 80 faces the arc-shaped recessed portion 62a of the cover member 60 (see Figure 6 and Figure 11 At this time, the pipe connecting member 80 is set to a state inclined relative to the longitudinal direction of the connecting member 40, and in this state, it is made to face the arc-shaped recessed portion 62a of the cover member 60 from the surface side of the connecting member 40. Figure 16 As shown by the dotted line portion, the rotation fixing portion 83 of the pipe connecting member 80 is engaged with the arc-shaped recessed portion 62 a of the cover member 60 .

[0253] Then, if Figure 15and Figure 16 As shown by the dotted arrow M4, the pipe connecting member 80 is rotated (tilted) relative to the cover member 60 about the axis R to be laid down. Furthermore, the first fixing claw 62b of the pipe connecting member fixing portion 62 is engaged with the first engaging recess 81b of the pipe connecting body 81, and the second fixing claw 62c of the pipe connecting member fixing portion 62 is engaged with the second engaging recess 81c of the pipe connecting body 81.

[0254] Therefore, if Figure 9A 、 Figure 9B and Figure 16 As shown, the insertion portion 81e of the pipe connecting member 80 is inserted into the opening OP while elastically deforming the base 72a of the check valve 72, securing it. The washing unit 50 is now complete. At this point, the pipe connecting member 80 presses against the base 72a while elastically deforming it, so that the base 72a also functions as a buffer. This prevents the pipe connecting member 80 from rattling relative to the cover member 60.

[0255] Furthermore, when the first fixing claw 62b is fixed to the first locking recess 81b and the second fixing claw 62c is fixed to the second locking recess 81c while the rotation fixing portion 83 is supported by the arc-shaped recess 62a, the pipe connecting member 80 is restricted from moving in the longitudinal direction and the wiping direction of the wiper rubber 32 relative to the pipe connecting member fixing portion 62. Therefore, the insertion portion 81e and the opening OP can be easily connected without having to look at both (improving assembly efficiency).

[0256] Thus, the assembly of the wiper strip 30 is completed. Figure 16 In the embodiment, the scraper strip 32 is omitted (refer to Figure 4 ) and other diagrams.

[0257] Then, the completed wiper strip 30 is mounted via the clamping member CL (see Figure 3 ) to the arm piece 23, while connecting the front end of the second washing pipe TB to the pipe connecting portion 82 of the pipe connecting member 80. Thus, the assembly of the wiper device 10 is completed.

[0258] In addition, the front end of the second washing pipe TB can also be pre-connected to the pipe connecting portion 82 of the piping connecting member 80. After the connecting member 40 is installed to the arm piece 23, the piping connecting member 80 connected to the second washing pipe TB is installed to the cover member 60, and the assembly is performed according to this process.

[0259] [Variation 1]

[0260] Next, modified examples of the valve member will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0261] In addition, with respect to the valve member 70 (refer to 7A to 7C ) Parts having the same functions are marked with the same reference numerals and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0262] Figure 17A and Figure 17B It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the valve member.

[0263] like Figure 17A and Figure 17B As shown, in the modified example, the valve member 90 is similar to the valve member 70 (see 7A to 7C ), the only difference is that the valve body 71 (white portion) and the check valve 72 (hatched portion) have different hardnesses. Specifically, the valve body 71 and the check valve 72 are both made of a resin material such as silicone rubber, but the hardness of the check valve 72 is lower than that of the valve body 71. In other words, the hardness of the valve body 72b is lower than that of the valve body 71.

[0264] In addition, the valve member 90 corresponds to the second mounting member in the present invention.

[0265] Thus, the check valve 72 can be easily opened without applying a large load to the washing pump. On the other hand, if the check valve 72 is too soft, the washing liquid W inside the check valve 72 will leak out when the washing pump stops, resulting in a decrease in the responsiveness of the next injection of the washing liquid W. Therefore, it is ideal that the hardness of the check valve 72 is adjusted according to the washing unit 50 (see Figure 4 ) to appropriately set the required specifications.

[0266] In addition, regarding the manufacturing method of the valve member 90, the valve body 71 and the check valve 72 may be formed separately, and then the protrusion PR of the check valve 72 (see Figure 17A and Figure 17B ) is inserted into the mounting hole HL of the valve body 71 (refer to Figure 17A and Figure 17B ) and fixed, the check valve 72 can also be bonded to the valve body 71 using adhesive or the like.

[0267] Furthermore, the valve body 71 and the check valve 72 may be pre-molded into one piece by two-color molding.

[0268] [Variation 2]

[0269] As another modified example, the valve body 71 may be made of the same material (resin material such as plastic) as the cover member 60. In this case, in order to connect the resin valve body 71 with the resin cover member 60 to form the first to fourth flow paths FP1 to FP4, and also to prevent leakage of the washing liquid W, it is desirable to weld the valve body 71 and the cover member 60 together.

[0270] Specifically, it is ideal to weld only the valve chamber RM and the first to fourth grooves G1 to G4 of the cover member 60. This can suppress thermal deformation of the cover member 60 and the valve body 71 and save manufacturing energy during welding.

[0271] [Variation 3]

[0272] Next, modified examples of the connecting member will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0273] In addition, the same reference numerals are given to parts having the same functions as those in the above embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0274] Figure 18 It is a perspective view showing a modified example in which washing units are included on the outward and return sides of the connecting member.

[0275] like Figure 18 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the modified example of the connecting member 100 , a washing unit 50 is also installed on the first long side wall portion 41 disposed on the outward side of the connecting member 100 . Figure 18 In the modified example shown, the scraper rubber strip 32 (see Figure 2 ) is sprayed with the first to fourth washing liquids W1 to W4 on both the outgoing and return sides (see Figure 2 ).

[0276] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the washer fluid W from being insufficient on both the forward and return sides during the reciprocating wiping of the wiper rubber 32 .

[0277] Specifically, the washing unit 50 on the outgoing side (the front side in the figure) and the washing unit 50 on the return side (the back side in the figure) have the same structure. The washing unit 50 on the outgoing side and the washing unit 50 on the return side are respectively formed to be mirror-symmetrical with each other with the connecting member 100 interposed therebetween.

[0278] As described in detail above, according to this embodiment, it includes: a connecting member 40, which is rotatably mounted on the wiper arm 20; a wiper rubber strip 32, which is mounted on the connecting member 40 and slides onto the surface of the vehicle window glass 11; and a washing unit 50, which is mounted on the second long side wall portion 42 of the connecting member 40 in the wiping direction of the wiper rubber strip 32 and sprays the first washing liquid W1 to the fourth washing liquid W4 toward the surface of the vehicle window glass 11. The washing unit 50 has: a cover member 60, which is arranged opposite to the second long side wall portion 42; a valve member 70, which is arranged on the second long side wall portion 42 and the cover member 60; and the first flow path FP1 to the fourth flow path FP4, which are arranged between the cover member 60 and the valve member 70, for the first washing liquid W1 to the fourth washing liquid W4 to circulate, the valve member 70 includes a hollow check valve 72 which is arranged on the upstream side of the first flow path FP1 to the fourth flow path FP4 and can be elastically deformed, the check valve 72 has a slit SL, and the slit SL overcomes the restoring force of the check valve 72 when the internal pressure P1 of the check valve 72 rises and opens, and is closed by the restoring force of the check valve 72 when the internal pressure P1 of the check valve 72 drops.

[0279] Thus, the check valve 72 can be configured as a single-shaped check valve structure without a valve body or a coil spring that opens and closes the flow path, while also allowing the first to fourth washer fluids W1 to W4 to be sprayed quickly from the first to fourth spray holes H1 to H4 toward the surface of the window glass 11. This improves the assembly workability of the wiper strip 30 and enables the washer unit 50 to be miniaturized.

[0280] Moreover, according to this embodiment, the valve member 70 includes a valve body 71, which is arranged between the second long side wall portion 42 and the cover member 60 and is integrally provided with a check valve 72. The slit SL provided in the check valve 72 can be opened and closed between the second long side wall portion 42 and the cover member 60. The hardness of the check valve 72 is lower than the hardness of the valve body 71 (refer to Figure 17A and Figure 17B (a modified example of ).

[0281] Thus, the valve body 72b can be easily opened without applying a large load to the washing pump.

[0282] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the slit SL is formed by a pair of first opposing walls WL1 facing each other in the long side direction of the scraper strip 32 and a pair of second opposing walls WL2 facing each other in the wiping direction of the scraper strip 32, and the wall thickness t1 of the first opposing walls WL1 along the long side direction of the scraper strip 32 is thicker than the wall thickness t2 of the second opposing walls WL2 along the wiping direction of the scraper strip 32.

[0283] Thus, the valve body 72 b can be configured as a so-called duckbill valve structure having a single shape and capable of opening in the wiping direction of the wiper rubber 32 in response to an increase in the internal pressure.

[0284] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the structure of the check valve 72 can be simplified, thereby improving its assembly workability, and the washing unit 50 can be miniaturized. Therefore, the increase in manufacturing energy can be suppressed, and even the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, especially Goal 7 (Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all) and Goal 13 (Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts), can be achieved.

[0285] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the above-described embodiment shows a case where there are four first to fourth injection holes H1 to H4, but the present invention is not limited to this. The number of injection holes can also be set to three or less or five or more.

[0286] Moreover, in the embodiment, Figure 6 As shown, only the portion of the first groove G1 where the cover member 60 is disposed, that is, the portion of the second surface CF2 on the cover member side, is inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the cover body 61, and as shown in FIG. 7A to 7C As shown, only the portion of the valve body 71 covering the first groove G1 , ie, the portion where the valve member side second surface BF2 is arranged, is inclined in accordance with the inclination of the cover member side second surface CF2 .

[0287] The present invention is not limited to this. Alternatively, only the portion of the cover member 60 where the fourth groove G4 is located may be tilted, or both the first and fourth grooves G1 and G4 of the cover member 60 may be tilted, or both the first and fourth grooves G1 and G4 of the cover member 60 may be straightly extended along the longitudinal direction of the cover body 61. In this case, the shape of the valve body 71 is also changed so that it covers the portions where the first and fourth grooves G1 and G4 are located.

[0288] Furthermore, in the embodiment, Figure 10 As shown, the following process is used for assembly, namely, first, the cover member 60 and the valve member 70 are connected to each other (refer to the dotted arrow M1), second, the nozzle assembly NA is installed to the connecting member 40 (refer to the dotted arrow M2), and third, the piping connecting member 80 is installed to the cover member 60 (refer to the dotted arrow M3).

[0289] The present invention is not limited to this, and can also be assembled in the following process, that is, first, the cover component 60 and the valve component 70 are connected to each other, second, the piping connection component 80 is installed to the cover component 60, and third, the nozzle assembly NA with the piping connection component 80 installed is installed to the connecting component 40.

[0290] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the wiper strip 30 is used in a vehicle such as an automobile, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be used in, for example, an airplane, a train, or construction machinery.

[0291] In addition, the material, shape, size, number, installation location, etc. of each component in the above-described embodiment are arbitrary as long as the present invention can be achieved, and are not limited to the above-described embodiment.

Claims

1. A wiper strip is mounted on a wiper arm that swings through a drive shaft to wipe the wiping surface. The wiper strip comprises: A connecting member, rotatably mounted on the wiper arm; a scraper rubber strip, mounted on the connecting member and slidably connected to the wiping surface; as well as A washing unit is mounted on the side wall of at least one side of the connecting member in the wiping direction of the scraper rubber strip, and sprays cleaning liquid toward the wiping surface. The washing unit has: a first mounting member disposed opposite to the side wall portion; a second mounting member disposed between the side wall portion and the first mounting member; as well as A flow path is arranged between the first mounting member and the second mounting member, through which the cleaning liquid flows. The second mounting member includes a hollow check valve that is arranged on the upstream side of the flow path and is elastically deformable. The check valve has a slit, The slit When the internal pressure of the check valve rises, the check valve overcomes the restoring force of the check valve and opens. When the internal pressure of the check valve decreases, the check valve is closed by the restoring force of the check valve.

2. The wiper strip according to claim 1, wherein The second mounting member includes a main body portion, the main body portion is arranged between the side wall portion and the first mounting member, and is integrally provided with the check valve. The slit provided in the check valve can be opened and closed between the side wall portion and the first mounting member. The hardness of the check valve is lower than the hardness of the body portion.

3. The wiper strip according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The slit is formed by a pair of first facing walls and a pair of second facing walls. The pair of first facing walls face each other in the long side direction of the scraper rubber strip, The pair of second facing walls face each other in the wiping direction of the scraper rubber strip, The thickness of the first facing walls along the long side direction of the rubber scraper strip is thicker than the thickness of the second facing walls along the wiping direction of the rubber scraper strip.

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