Adapter for a drive arm
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2026/057863
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-19
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-24
Smart Images
Figure EP2026057863_24092026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Description
[0002] Title of the invention: Adapter for a drive arm
[0003] [1] [The present invention relates in particular to a connection assembly for a wiper blade for its connection with a drive arm, in particular for a motor vehicle, with or without an integrated washing system, and an adapter for a drive arm.
[0004] [2] In general, the invention relates to a connection assembly for a wiper blade to a drive arm, the connection assembly comprising a connector and an adapter rotatably mounted on each other via a pivot joint. The development of integrated wiper blade washing solutions implies a need for more complex connections incorporating both a mechanical and a fluidic linkage. The fluidic linkage, generally achieved via a fluidic connector, can increase the overall size of the connection assembly.
[0005] [3] The invention proposes, in particular, in a general way, to reduce the size of the connection assemblies of a wiper brush on a drive arm.
[0006] [4] The invention thus relates to an adapter for a drive arm, the adapter comprising a body with a window configured to receive a fluidic connector, characterized in that the body of the adapter includes a stop configured to retain the fluidic connector in a longitudinal direction, when the adapter is in the locked position.
[0007] [5] According to one aspect of the invention, the stop is configured to retain the fluidic connector in a locked position in the longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. [6] According to one aspect of the invention, the adapter body is configured to be able to pivot relative to the fluidic connector between the locked position and an unlocked position, in which the fluidic connector can be removed from the window, in particular in the longitudinal direction.
[0008] [7] According to one aspect of the invention, the stop is dimensioned to allow the disengagement of the fluidic connector from the adapter at a predetermined inclination, for example when the adapter is inclined at least 5° from the central longitudinal axis or for example when the adapter is inclined at least 8° from the central longitudinal axis or for example when the adapter is inclined at least 10° from the longitudinal direction.
[0009] [8] According to one aspect of the invention, the stop comprises a longitudinal stop portion and optionally a transverse stop portion.
[0010] [9] According to one aspect of the invention, the longitudinal stop portion has a hook shape.
[0011]
[0010] According to one aspect of the invention, the longitudinal stop portion has a hook shape defining a cavity configured to receive and retain within the window a part of the fluidic connector in a locked position.
[0012]
[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, the longitudinal stop portion has a curved stop surface.
[0013]
[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, the longitudinal stop portion comprises a first part and a second part connected by a common end and forming an angle between them, in particular less than or equal to 90°.
[0014]
[0013] According to one aspect of the invention, the transverse stop portion has a hook shape or a flat stop surface.
[0015]
[0014] According to one aspect of the invention, the window is open on a periphery of the adapter body.
[0016]
[0015] Alternatively, the window has a closed contour (perimeter) within the body of the adapter.
[0016] According to one aspect of the invention, the stop includes a connecting portion linking the first stop portion and the second stop portion, so as to close the perimeter of the window.
[0017]
[0017] According to one aspect of the invention, the perimeter of the adapter body comprises straight lines.
[0018]
[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, the stop is adjacent to the window.
[0019]
[0019] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluidic connector is configured to be press-fitted onto a windshield washer fluid hose.
[0020]
[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluidic connector is configured to cooperate with a connector cannula.
[0021]
[0021] The invention also relates to a connection assembly for a wiper brush for its connection with a drive arm, the connection assembly comprising a connector and an adapter according to any one of the characteristics mentioned above.
[0022]
[0022] The invention also relates, independently or in combination with the foregoing, to a method for mounting and dismounting a fluidic connector on a connector, and the method comprises the following steps:
[0023] - for assembly:
[0024] o Present the fluidic connector in an inclined position relative to the adapter window.
[0025] o Insert the fluidic connector onto the connector cannula; o Rotate an adapter as described above until it reaches its locking position for the fluidic connector, in which the fluidic connector is held by the stop on the adapter body; - for disassembly:
[0026] o Rotate the adapter in the opposite direction to the mounting direction; o Remove the fluid connector from the connector.
[0023] The pivoting movement allows for quick and intuitive insertion and removal of the fluid connector. This simplifies the installation and maintenance of the wiper system.
[0027]
[0024] The pivoting movement, combined with the stop, ensures a robust connection of the fluidic connector, even in the presence of vibrations and movements of the wiper arm.
[0028]
[0025] The stop prevents the fluidic connector from accidentally detaching from the adapter.
[0029]
[0026] The invention further relates, independently or in combination with the above, to a connection assembly for a wiper blade for its connection with a drive arm, the connection assembly comprising a connector and an adapter mounted rotatably relative to each other via a pivot joint, and the connector comprising a base having a lower face provided with at least one mounting element, for example a groove configured to secure a portion of the wiper blade, the at least one mounting element groove having a central longitudinal axis, and an upper face on which a so-called "vertical" wall protrudes, positioned laterally off-center with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the groove in the base, and the vertical wall being configured to form the pivot joint with said adapter.
[0030]
[0027] In the present invention, "the vertical wall is positioned laterally off-center with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the groove in the base" means that it is positioned with a lateral or transverse offset with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the groove (on one side, therefore in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis).
[0031]
[0028] In other words, the vertical wall is not positioned opposite the middle of at least one mounting element.
[0032]
[0029] For example, the vertical wall is offset by at least 1 mm in a transverse direction relative to the central longitudinal axis. For example, the vertical wall is offset by at least 3 mm in a transverse direction relative to the central longitudinal axis. For example, the vertical wall is offset by at least 5 mm in a transverse direction relative to the central longitudinal axis. For example, if at least one mounting element is a groove, the groove has a width of 10 mm.
[0033]
[0030] For example, the vertical wall is offset by at least 10% of the width of at least one mounting element in a transverse direction relative to the central longitudinal axis. For example, the vertical wall is offset by at least 30% of the width of at least one mounting element in a transverse direction relative to the central longitudinal axis. For example, the vertical wall is offset by at least 50% of the width of at least one mounting element in a transverse direction relative to the central longitudinal axis.
[0034]
[0031] For example, the vertical wall is arranged opposite a lateral edge of at least one mounting element.
[0035]
[0032] It is also noted that the central longitudinal axis of the groove corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the wiping brush when the wiping brush is inserted into the groove.
[0036]
[0033] The central longitudinal axis is an axis parallel to the extension direction of at least one mounting element. The central longitudinal axis follows or coincides with a median line of at least one mounting element, that is to say, it passes substantially through the middle of at least one mounting element.
[0037]
[0034] In this application, the terms "before" and "before" are defined.
[0038] "rear" along the central longitudinal axis such that the insertion of the drive arm into the adapter is done from back to front.
[0039]
[0035] At least one mounting element is configured to allow the connector to be mounted on the wiper blade, either directly or indirectly. Thus, for example, at least one mounting element may be a groove to accommodate the wiper blade, or mounting elements on an intermediate part attached to the wiper blade, for example by clipping.
[0040]
[0036] For example, the locking tooth and the vertical wall are arranged on the base on either side of the central longitudinal axis.
[0041]
[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, the vertical wall includes at least one guide surface configured to guide the connector laterally relative to the adapter during assembly, in particular the guide surface being in the form of a groove.
[0042]
[0038] According to one aspect of the invention, the connector includes a fluidic connection, in particular provided with a cannula, configured to allow the passage of windshield washer fluid from a fluidic connector to the wiper blade.
[0043]
[0039] According to one aspect of the invention, the connector base includes one or more tips for a fluidic connection with windshield washer fluid channels in the wiper blade.
[0044]
[0040] According to one aspect of the invention, the vertical wall is positioned at the right of these fluidic connection tips, on one side of the base.
[0045]
[0041] According to one aspect of the invention, the pivot connection is achieved by at least one cylindrical stud protruding from the adapter configured to fit into a corresponding orifice in the vertical wall of the connector.
[0046]
[0042] Offsetting the vertical wall of the connector allows the wiper blade to be positioned more centrally relative to the drive arm. This reduces the risk of the blade touching the edges of the windshield, which could cause damage or premature wear.
[0047]
[0043] The offset position of the vertical wall allows the connection between the brush and the arm to be lowered. This prevents the arm from passing over the vertical wall, which could interfere with the vehicle's hood in the resting position.
[0048]
[0044] In addition, a lower connection reduces the surface area exposed to the wind, which improves the stability of the broom and reduces vibrations.
[0049]
[0045] Off-centering the arm relative to the broom spoiler improves the latter's efficiency. An arm positioned directly above the broom spoiler would have generated aerodynamic disturbances reducing the spoiler's effect.
[0050]
[0046] The invention further relates, independently or in combination with the above, to an adapter for a wiper drive arm, the adapter being suitable for mounting on a connector, the adapter comprising a body and a locking button, the locking button being connected to the body of the adapter by a deformable tab, so that the locking button can be moved along an external surface of the body of the adapter between a locked position and an unlocked position in order to lock or unlock the adapter on the drive arm.
[0051]
[0047] It is understood that the locking button is movable along the extension of the outer surface of the adapter. This movement can also be called a lateral movement of the locking button.
[0052]
[0048] For example, the locking button is manually movable along the upper surface of the adapter body.
[0053]
[0049] For example, the locking button includes a gripping surface.
[0054]
[0050] According to one aspect of the invention, the locking button comprises a head and a column, the column being connected to the body of the adapter by the deformable tab.
[0055]
[0051] According to one aspect of the invention, the column extends into an opening formed on an external surface of the adapter body.
[0056]
[0052] According to one aspect of the invention, the cross-section of the column is smaller than the cross-section of the opening, allowing lateral movement of the button in the opening.
[0057]
[0053] According to one aspect of the invention, the adapter body has a recess configured to receive the button head in the unlocked position.
[0058]
[0054] According to one aspect of the invention, the recess is formed on an external surface of the adapter body.
[0059]
[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, the deformable leg extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the drive arm.
[0060]
[0056] According to one aspect of the invention, the deformable leg extends along a line forming an angle of approximately 50 degrees with the vertical of the adapter body.
[0061]
[0057] According to one aspect of the invention, the locking button has a bearing surface configured to cooperate with a notch in the drive arm.
[0058] According to one aspect of the invention, the bearing surface is defined by a surface extending in a direction of button support.
[0062]
[0059] According to one aspect of the invention, the head of the locking button has dimensions such that in the unlocked position, it at least partially covers the recess, preventing vertical movement of the button.
[0063]
[0060] According to one aspect of the invention, a locking tooth disposed on an associated connector, said tooth being configured to cooperate with the locking button in the locked position, preventing lateral movement of the button.
[0064]
[0061] According to one aspect of the invention, the locking tooth is configured to allow the button to be unlocked when the adapter is inclined relative to the central longitudinal axis at an angle of at least 5°. For example, the locking tooth is configured to allow the button to be unlocked when the adapter is inclined relative to the central longitudinal axis at an angle of at least 8°. For example, the locking tooth is configured to allow the button to be unlocked when the adapter is inclined relative to the central longitudinal axis at an angle of at least 10°.
[0065]
[0062] According to one aspect of the invention, the adapter body includes a window configured to receive a fluidic connector.
[0066]
[0063] According to one aspect of the invention, a stop formed on the body of the adapter, adjacent to the window, to retain the fluidic connector in the locked position.
[0067]
[0064] The invention further relates to a connection assembly for a wiper blade for its connection with a drive arm, the connection assembly comprising a connector and an adapter as described above, rotatably mounted within each other via a pivot joint
[0068]
[0065] The laterally movable locking button, combined with the deformable tab, allows for a more secure and reliable attachment of the drive arm to the adapter. This reduces the risk of accidental disconnection of the arm.
[0069]
[0066] The invention further relates, independently or in combination with the above, to a connection assembly for a wiper blade for its connection with a drive arm, the connection assembly comprising a connector and an adapter rotatably mounted within each other via a pivot link, the adapter comprising a movable locking button for locking the adapter onto a drive arm, and the connector comprising a locking tooth configured to cooperate with the locking button of the adapter and prevent its movement when the adapter is mounted on the connector in the operating position.
[0070]
[0067] According to one aspect of the invention, the locking button is movable laterally relative to the body of the adapter.
[0071]
[0068] Alternatively, the locking button is movable vertically relative to the adapter body.
[0072]
[0069] According to one aspect of the invention, the locking button has a deformable tab connecting the button to the body of the adapter.
[0073]
[0070] According to one aspect of the invention, the locking tooth prevents the locking button from moving within an angular rotation range of the adapter relative to the connector corresponding to the operating position of the brush.
[0074]
[0071] According to one aspect of the invention, the locking tooth is configured to cooperate with the locking button when the wiper blade is in the operating position on a windshield.
[0075]
[0072] According to one aspect of the invention, the locking button has a reach configured to cooperate with a notch in the drive arm.
[0076]
[0073] The invention further relates to a method for mounting and dismounting a windshield wiper drive arm on an adapter, the adapter being rotatably mounted on a connector and comprising a movable locking button, in particular laterally or vertically, for locking the adapter onto the drive arm, the connector comprising a locking tooth configured to cooperate with the locking button and prevent its movement, and the method comprising the following steps:
[0077] For assembly: Insert a section of the drive arm into a passage of the adapter;
[0078] o Push the drive arm until a raised area on the drive arm triggers the lateral or vertical movement, as appropriate, of the adapter locking button;
[0079] o Continue pushing the drive arm until the locking button returns to the locked position, engaging a range of the button in a notch of the drive arm, thus preventing longitudinal movement of the arm relative to the adapter;
[0080] o Rotate the adapter relative to the connector to engage the connector's locking tooth with the adapter's locking button, thus preventing the button from moving;
[0081] - For disassembly:
[0082] o Rotate the adapter relative to the connector to disengage the connector locking tooth from the adapter locking button;
[0083] o Apply a lateral or vertical force, as appropriate, to the adapter locking button to disengage the button's reach from the drive arm notch;
[0084] o Pull the drive arm out of the adapter passage.
[0085]
[0074] The advantage is the securing of the entire connection assembly. The locking tooth on the connector, working in conjunction with the locking button on the adapter, prevents accidental unlocking during brush operation. This significantly reduces the risk of the brush and drive arm separating, which could be dangerous.
[0086]
[0075] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the following description, given by way of illustrative and non-limiting examples, and the accompanying drawings, among which:
[0087]
[0076] - [Figure 1] illustrates, schematically and partially, in perspective a connection assembly according to an example of an embodiment of the invention;
[0077] - [Figure 2] illustrates, schematically and partially, the connection assembly of Figure 1, in view from below;
[0088]
[0078] - [Figure 3] illustrates, schematically and partially, the connection assembly of Figure 1 in enlarged view;
[0089]
[0079] - [Figure 4] shows the connection assembly of Figure 1 substantially along the longitudinal axis;
[0090]
[0080] - [Figure 5] shows in isolation the connector of the connection assembly of Figure 1;
[0091]
[0081] - [Figure 6] shows the adapter and connector assembled, for the whole of figure 1;
[0092]
[0082] - [Figure 7] represents the installation of the drive arm in the adapter, for the whole of Figure 1;
[0093]
[0083] - [Figure 8] represents a schematic cross-section of a connection assembly according to another example of implementation of the invention;
[0094]
[0084] - Figures 9, 10, 11 and 12 represent different examples of a stop retaining the fluidic connector embodiment.
[0095]
[0085]
[0096]
[0086] Figures 1 to 3 show a connection assembly 1 of a wiper brush 2 for its connection with a drive arm 3.
[0097]
[0087] The connection assembly 1 comprises a connector 4 and an adapter 5 rotatably mounted within each other via a pivot link.
[0098]
[0088] The connector 4 comprises a base 7 having a lower face 8 provided with a groove 9 configured to secure a portion of the wiper blade 2, this groove 9 having a central longitudinal axis XC, and an upper face 10 on which a vertical wall 11 projects, positioned laterally off-center with respect to the central longitudinal axis XC of the groove 9 of the base 7, and the vertical wall 11 being configured to form the pivot joint with said adapter 5, as illustrated for example in Figures 4 and 5.
[0089] In the present invention, a "vertical wall" is defined as a wall that is substantially perpendicular to the upper face 10 of the base 7. The term "vertical" does not mean that the wall is vertical with respect to the Earth's frame of reference but that it is vertical with respect to the upper face 10 of the base 7 of the connector 4.
[0099]
[0090] In the present invention, the vertical wall 11 is positioned laterally off-center with respect to the central longitudinal axis XC of the groove 9 of the base 7, meaning that it is positioned with a lateral offset (on one side) with respect to the central longitudinal axis XC of the groove 9.
[0100]
[0091] In other words, the vertical wall 11 is not positioned opposite the middle of the groove 9.
[0101]
[0092] It is also noted that the central longitudinal axis XC of the groove 9 corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the wiper blade 2 when the wiper blade 2 is inserted into the groove 9.
[0102]
[0093] The vertical wall 11 includes guide surfaces 12 configured to guide laterally the connector 4 relative to the adapter 5 during assembly, in particular the guide surfaces 12 being in the form of grooves.
[0103]
[0094] Connector 4 includes a fluid connector, which is provided with a cannula 13, configured to allow the passage of windshield washer fluid from a fluid connector 27 to the wiper blade 2.
[0104]
[0095] The base 7 of the connector 4 includes tips 14 for a fluidic connection with windshield washer fluid channels in the wiper blade 2. Windshield washer fluid spray holes are made along the blade of the wiper blade 2.
[0105]
[0096] The vertical wall 11 is positioned opposite these fluidic connection tips 14, on one side of the base 7.
[0106]
[0097] The pivot connection is made by two cylindrical studs 15 protruding from the adapter 5 configured to insert, by snapping, into two corresponding holes 29 in the vertical wall 11 of the connector 4.
[0107]
[0098] Connector 4 and adapter 5 are here made of plastic.
[0099] The offset of the vertical wall 11 of connector 4 allows the wiper blade to be positioned more centrally relative to the drive arm 3. This reduces the risk of the blade 2 touching the edges of the windshield, which could cause damage or premature wear.
[0108]
[0100] The offset position of the vertical wall 11 allows the connection between the brush and the arm to be lowered. This prevents the arm 2 from passing over the vertical wall 11, which could interfere with the vehicle's hood in its resting position.
[0109]
[0101] In addition, a lower connection reduces the surface area exposed to the wind, which improves the stability of the broom and reduces vibrations.
[0110]
[0102] Off-centering the arm relative to the broom spoiler improves the latter's efficiency. An arm positioned directly above the broom spoiler 2 would have generated aerodynamic disturbances reducing the spoiler's effect.
[0111]
[0103] As can be clearly seen for example in figures 6 and 7, the adapter 5 has a body 16 and a locking button 17, the locking button 17 being connected to the body 16 of the adapter 5 by a deformable tab 18, so that the locking button 17 can be moved laterally relative to the body 16 of the adapter 5 between a locked position and an unlocked position in order to lock or unlock the adapter 5 on the drive arm 3.
[0112]
[0104] The locking button 17 has a head 19 and a column 20, the column 20 being connected to the body 16 of the adapter 5 by the deformable tab 18.
[0113]
[0105] The column 20 extends into an opening 21 formed on an outer surface of the body 16 of the adapter 5.
[0114]
[0106] The section of the column 20 is smaller than the section of the opening 21, allowing lateral movement of the button in the opening 21.
[0115]
[0107] The body 16 of the adapter 5 has a recess 22 configured to receive the head 19 of the button in the unlocked position.
[0108] The recess 22 is formed on an external surface of the body 16 of the adapter 5.
[0116]
[0109] The deformable leg 18 extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis XC of the drive arm 3.
[0117]
[0110] The deformable leg 18 extends along a line forming an angle of approximately 50 degrees with the vertical of the body 16 of the adapter 5.
[0118]
[0111] The locking button 17 has a reach 23 configured to cooperate with a notch 24 of the drive arm 3.
[0119]
[0112] The range 23 is defined by a surface extending in a direction of support of the locking button 17.
[0120]
[0113] The head 19 of the locking button 17 has dimensions such that in the unlocked position, it at least partially covers the recess 22, preventing vertical movement of the button.
[0121]
[0114] A locking tooth 25 disposed on the associated connector 4, said tooth 25 being configured to cooperate with a recess 33 in the locking button 17 in the locked position, preventing lateral movement of the button 17.
[0122]
[0115] A fluidic connector 27 is configured to be mounted on connector 4.
[0123]
[0116] The body 16 of the adapter 5 includes a window 26 configured to receive the fluidic connector 27 when mounted on the connector 4, as illustrated for example in Figures 3 and 7.
[0124]
[0117] The window 26 can in particular be made near a lateral edge of the body 16 of the adapter 5, in particular the lateral edge intended to be aligned vertically with the side of the base 7 carrying the fluidic connection tips 14 and the vertical wall 11.
[0125]
[0118] The window 26 is defined at least by a front longitudinal edge 26a extending substantially transversely from a first distal end to a second proximal end of the lateral edge of the body 16 of the adapter 5 near which the window 26 is made, and a transverse edge 26b extending longitudinally backwards from the first end.
[0126]
[0119] The fluidic connector 27 comprises a front wall 27a for cooperating with a cannula 13 of the connector 4, a rear wall 27b opposite the front wall, and two opposing transverse walls 27c and 27d connecting the facing ends of the front wall 27a and the rear wall 27b. More specifically, the transverse wall 27c connects the transverse ends of the front wall 27a and the rear wall 27b intended to be opposite the transverse edge 26b, and the transverse wall 27d connects the transverse ends of the front wall 27a and the rear wall 27b opposite those connected by the transverse wall 27c.
[0127]
[0120] The front wall 27a and the rear wall 27b can be substantially parallel but preferably the rear wall 27b is oblique with respect to the transverse direction defined as the direction strictly perpendicular to the longitudinal direction defining the central longitudinal axis XC.
[0128] Preferably, the rear wall 27b forms an angle of less than 90° with the longitudinal direction (when the fluidic connector 27 is mounted on the connector 4) so that the rear wall 27b includes a corner C1 with the transverse wall 27c positioned behind longitudinally with respect to the opposite corner C2 formed with the transverse wall 27d.
[0129]
[0121] A stop 28 is formed on the body 16 of the adapter 5, adjacent to the window 26, to retain the fluidic connector 27 in the locked position.
[0130]
[0122] The laterally movable locking button 17, combined with the deformable tab 18, allows for a more secure and reliable attachment of the drive arm to the adapter 5. This reduces the risk of accidental disconnection of the arm.
[0131]
[0123] The locking button 17 is movable laterally relative to the body 16 of the adapter 5.
[0132]
[0124] The locking tooth 25 prevents the locking button 17 from moving within an angular rotation range of the adapter 5 relative to the connector 4 corresponding to the operating position of the wiper 2.
[0125] The locking tooth 25 is configured to cooperate with the locking button 17 when the wiper 2 is in the operating position on a windshield.
[0133]
[0126] Generally, independently of the washing connection, the locking tooth 25 connects to the upper face of the base 7, on a side opposite the vertical wall 11, as seen in Figure 5. The tooth 25 has a raised shape with an inclined pointed apex 25a intended to engage with the locking button 17. The dimensions of the tooth 25 are relatively small, for example at least 5 or 10 times smaller than those of the base 7 measured along the XC axis.
[0134]
[0127] The method for mounting and dismounting the wiper drive arm on the adapter 5 comprises the following steps:
[0135] - for assembly:
[0136] o Insert a section of the drive arm into a passage 30 of the adapter 5;
[0137] o Push the drive arm until a relief 32 on the drive arm triggers the lateral movement of the locking button 17 of the adapter 5;
[0138] o Continue pushing the drive arm until the locking button 17 returns to the locked position, engaging a range 23 of the button in a notch 24 of the drive arm, thus preventing longitudinal movement of the arm relative to the adapter 5;
[0139] o Rotate adapter 5 relative to connector 4 to engage the locking tooth 25 of connector 4 with the locking button 17 of adapter 5, thus preventing the button from moving;
[0140] - for disassembly: o Rotate adapter 5 relative to connector 4 to disengage the locking tooth 25 of connector 4 from the locking button 17 of adapter 5;
[0141] o Apply lateral force to the locking button 17 of adapter 5 to disengage the reach 23 of the button from the notch 24 of the drive arm;
[0142] o Pull the drive arm out of the passage 30 of the adapter 5.
[0143]
[0128] The advantage is the securing of the connection assembly 1. The locking tooth 25 on the connector 4, cooperating with the locking button 17 on the adapter 5, prevents any accidental unlocking during brush operation. This significantly reduces the risk of separation of the brush and the drive arm, which could prove dangerous.
[0144]
[0129] The body 16 of the adapter 5 is configured to be able to pivot relative to the fluidic connector 27.
[0145]
[0130] Figures 3 and 7 present an example of a first embodiment of the stop 28, and Figures 9 to 12 present examples respectively of other embodiments of the stop 28.
[0146]
[0131] The stop 28 comprises a longitudinal stop portion 28a and optionally a transverse stop portion 28b.
[0147]
[0132] The longitudinal stop portion 28a extends from the body 16 of the adapter 5 substantially in the transverse direction, opposite the front longitudinal edge 26a. More precisely, the longitudinal stop portion 28a extends from a rear longitudinal end of the window 26, more precisely from the transverse edge 26b, to a point 35 so as to have a hook shape.
[0148]
[0133] The transverse stop portion 28b extends mainly in the longitudinal direction rearward from the second end of the proximal front longitudinal edge 26a of the lateral edge of the body 16 near which the window 26 is formed. For example, the transverse stop portion 28b may extend substantially parallel to the transverse edge 26b. The transverse stop portion 28b extends for at least 1 millimeter, preferably for at least 5 millimeters, to improve retention.
[0149]
[0134] When the fluidic connector 27 is mounted on the connector 4, the transverse stop portion 28b is thus configured to block a transverse movement of the fluidic connector 27 and to hold it, in particular to hold the front of the fluidic connector 27 by coming into contact with the transverse wall 27d of the fluidic connector 27.
[0150]
[0135] In addition, the transverse stop portion 28b may have a flat stop surface or, like the longitudinal stop portion 28a, have a hook shape.
[0151]
[0136] The term “hook shape” means that the relevant portion of the stop has a concavity 40 intended to be opposite the fluidic connector 27.
[0152]
[0137] In particular, the concavity 40 of the longitudinal stop portion 28a is configured to receive a part of the fluidic connector 27, said part being in particular the corner C1 of the fluidic connector 27 formed between the transverse wall 27c and the rear wall 27b, as in the examples of Figures 3, 7 and 11, or being the whole of the rear end of the fluidic connector 27 formed by the rear wall 27b and a part of the transverse wall 27d as in the examples of Figures 9, 10 and 12.
[0153]
[0138] In particular, the concavity 40 can be formed by a curved abutment surface, as on the longitudinal abutment portion 28a illustrated in an example of an embodiment in Figures 3 and 7. In this case, the longitudinal abutment portion 28a preferably extends over a transverse distance less than the width (distance between the transverse walls 27c and 27d) of the fluidic connector 27, so that the tip 35 is intended to retain the fluidic connector 27 in the transverse direction by bearing against the rear wall 27b, as illustrated in Figures 3 and 7.However, this is not a limiting factor, and a longitudinal stop portion 28a may be provided extending over a transverse distance greater than the width of the fluidic connector 27. The tip 35 and / or a portion of the curved stop surface is then intended to retain the fluidic connector 27 in the transverse direction by bearing against its rear wall 27 and / or its transverse wall 27d. Thus, when the concavity 40 of the longitudinal stop portion 28a is formed by a curved stop surface, it is particularly advantageous for the rear wall 27b of the fluidic connector 27 to form an angle of less than 90° with the longitudinal direction (when the fluidic connector 27 is mounted on the connector 4). Indeed, in this case, the corner C1 of the fluidic connector 27 is inserted within the concavity 40, and due to the orientation of the rear wall 27b, the transverse retention of the fluidic connector 27 within the window 26 is improved.
[0154]
[0139] Alternatively, the concavity 40 can be formed by two parts 100a and 100b of the longitudinal stop portion 28a connected to each other by one of their ends so as to form an angle less than or equal to 90°, as illustrated in examples of embodiments shown in Figures 9 to 12. In this case, the point 35 is formed by the end of the second part 100b opposite the first part 100a.
[0155]
[0140] In particular, the first part 100a of the longitudinal stop portion 28a can extend substantially transversely from the rear longitudinal end of the transverse edge 26b and the second part 100b of the longitudinal stop portion 28a can extend from the end of the first part 100a opposite to the transverse edge 26b towards the front of the adapter 5.
[0156]
[0141] The first part 100a can extend over a transverse distance greater than the width of the fluidic connector 27, as illustrated in the examples of Figures 9, 10 and 12, or over a transverse distance less than the width of the fluidic connector 27, as illustrated in the example of Figure 11.
[0157]
[0142] In particular, the first part 100a extends over a transverse distance of at least 1 millimeter.
[0158]
[0143] Furthermore, the first portion 100a may extend strictly along the longitudinal direction from the transverse edge 26b (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction), as shown in Figures 9 and 11, or be oblique to this longitudinal direction, forming an angle, for example, substantially equal to the angle formed between the rear wall 27b and the transverse wall 27c of the fluidic connector, as shown in Figures 10 and 12, in order to better conform to its shape. This is not limiting, and the angle may differ from that formed between the rear wall 27b and the transverse wall 27c of the fluidic connector 27, but in all cases, the concavity 40 has dimensions such that a rear portion of the fluidic connector 27 fits into it and is retained there.
[0159]
[0144] The second part 100b extends forward at least 1 millimeter from the end of the first part 100a.
[0160]
[0145] When, as illustrated in Figure 11, the second part 100b and the first part 100a are perpendicular to each other and the transverse dimension of the first part 100a is less than the width of the fluidic connector 27, the rear wall 27b of the fluidic connector 27 is necessarily inclined at less than 90° to the transverse wall 27c, and sufficiently inclined, for example at less than 80°, to allow the corner C1 to fit into the concavity 40.
[0161]
[0146] The first part 100a allows a longitudinal movement of the fluidic connector out of the window 26 to be blocked, and the second part 100b allows a transverse and longitudinal movement of the fluidic connector 27 to be blocked.
[0162]
[0147] The stop 28 is dimensioned to allow the disengagement of the fluidic connector 27 from the adapter 5 at a predetermined inclination, for example when the adapter is inclined at least 5° from the central longitudinal axis, and preferably when the adapter is inclined at least 10° from the central longitudinal axis.
[0163]
[0148] In principle, the stop 28 and the window 26 are configured to form, when the fluidic connector 27 is mounted on the connector 4 and received in the window 26, a clearance of at least 0.1 millimeters, preferably 0.5 millimeters, and at most 1 millimeter, in order to ensure satisfactory retention.
[0164]
[0149] In one embodiment, the window 26 is open on the periphery 34 of the body 16 of the adapter 5, as illustrated in the examples of figures 3, 7, 9, 10 and 11.
[0165]
[0150] Alternatively, the window 26 may have a closed contour within the body 16 of the adapter 5, as illustrated in the example of Figure 12. In this case, the stop 28 further includes a connecting portion 28c linking the tip 35 of the longitudinal stop portion 28a and the second transverse stop portion 28b, so as to close the periphery of the window 26, giving the window 26 a shape configured to receive the fluidic connector 27. In a preferred embodiment, the connecting portion 28c and the stop portions 28a, 28b give the window a shape similar to the shape of the fluidic connector, so as to surround it as efficiently as possible in the mounted position on the connector 4.
[0166]
[0151] The perimeter 34 of the body 16 of the adapter 5 includes straight lines.
[0167]
[0152] The stop 28 is adjacent to the window 26.
[0168]
[0153] The fluid connector 27 is configured to be press-fitted onto a windshield washer fluid hose 31.
[0169]
[0154] The fluidic connector 27 is configured to cooperate with a cannula 13 of connector 4.
[0170]
[0155] The method for mounting and dismounting the fluidic connector 27 on the connector 4 comprises the following steps:
[0171] - for assembly:
[0172] o Present the fluidic connector 27 in an inclined position relative to the window 26 of the adapter 5.
[0173] o Insert the fluid connector 27 onto the cannula 13 of connector 4; o Rotate the adapter 5 until it reaches its locking position for the fluid connector 27, in which the fluid connector 27 is held by the stop 28 of the body 16 of the adapter 5; - for disassembly:
[0174] o Rotate adapter 5 in the opposite direction to the mounting direction; o Remove fluidic connector 27 from connector 4.
[0175]
[0156] The pivoting movement allows for quick and intuitive insertion and removal of the fluidic connector 27. This simplifies the installation and maintenance of the wiper system.
[0157] The pivoting movement, combined with the stop 28, ensures a robust connection of the fluidic connector 27, even in the presence of vibrations and movements of the wiper arm.
[0176]
[0158] The stop 28 prevents the fluidic connector 27 from accidentally detaching from the adapter 5.
[0177]
[0159] In another embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 8, the locking button 117 is movable vertically relative to the body 116 of the adapter 105, and the connector 104 includes a locking tooth or locking pin 125 configured to cooperate (by way of a stop) with the locking button 117 of the adapter 105 and prevent its vertical movement when the adapter 105 is mounted on the connector 104 in the operating position. The locking button 117 is connected to the body 116 of the adapter 105 by a flexible longitudinal tab 118. The locking button 117 includes a raised section 140 configured to fit into a cutout 141 in the arm 3 in the unlocked position, and to protrude from this cutout 141 in the unlocked position. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that the movement for the lock button 117 is vertical, and not lateral.
Claims
Demands
1. Adapter (5) for a drive arm (3), the adapter (5) comprising a body (16) with a window (26) configured to receive a fluidic connector (27), characterized in that the body (16) of the adapter (5) includes a stop (28) configured to retain the fluidic connector (27) in a longitudinal direction, in particular in a longitudinal direction and in a transverse direction, when the adapter is in the locked position.
2. Adapter (5) according to the preceding claim, wherein the stop (28) comprises a longitudinal stop portion (28a) having a hook shape.
3. Adapter according to the preceding claim, wherein the body (16) of the adapter (5) is configured to be able to pivot relative to the fluidic connector (27) between the locked position and an unlocked position, in which the fluidic connector can be removed from the window in the longitudinal direction.
4. Adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stop (28) is dimensioned to allow the disengagement of the fluidic connector from the adapter at a predetermined tilt, for example when the adapter is tilted at least 5° from the longitudinal direction.
5. Adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the window (26) is open on a periphery (34) of the body (16) of the adapter (5).
6. Adapter according to claim 4, wherein the perimeter (34) of the body (16) of the adapter (5) comprises straight lines.
7. Adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the stop (28) comprises a transverse stop portion (28a).
8. Adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluidic connector (27) is configured to be press-fitted onto a windshield washer fluid hose.
9. Adapter according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluidic connector (27) is configured to cooperate with a connector cannula (13) (4).
10. Connection assembly (1) of a wiper brush (2) for its connection with a drive arm (3), the connection assembly (1) comprising a connector (4) and an adapter (5) according to any one of the preceding claims.
11. A method for mounting and dismounting a fluidic connector (27) on a connector (4), and the method comprising the following steps: - for assembly: o Present the fluidic connector (27) in an inclined position relative to the window (26) of the adapter (5). o Insert the fluidic connector (27) onto the cannula (13) of the connector (4); o Rotate the adapter (5) according to one of the preceding claims, until it reaches its locking position of the fluidic connector (27), in which the fluidic connector (27) is retained by the stop (28) of the body (16) of the adapter (5), - for disassembly: o Rotate the adapter (5) in the opposite direction to that of the assembly; o Remove the fluidic connector (27) from the connector (4).