Ball-Joint Support Rotation Locking for Tool-Free Wiper Rod Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing windshield wiper actuation linkage systems require complex assembly processes, often necessitating specific tools and risking accidental disassembly due to high forces, especially when using connecting rods with ball joint boxes.
Innovation Solution
A ball joint box support that provides rotation guidance and anti-rotation locking functions, allowing for manual assembly without specialized tools, by pre-assembling the ball joint on the crank pin and delivering the connecting rod with the support, which includes a housing with rotational guide and holding elements to secure the ball joint box in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the ball joint box is assembled to the connecting rod using snap-fastening, then the assembly process is simplified, but the risk of accidental disassembly increases due to high forces in the connecting rod
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the ball joint box support with the ball joint box itself, creating an integrated component that combines both functions. This integration eliminates the need for separate snap-fastening operations while providing more robust mechanical attachment through the integrated support structure that includes guide ramps and holding elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball joint box support is pre-assembled onto the ball joint box before final installation onto the connecting rod. This preliminary assembly allows the support structure to be prepared in advance with proper alignment features, reducing the complexity of the final assembly operation while ensuring reliable mechanical engagement.
2Reliability
If additional retaining elements are used to secure the crank pin in the ball joint box, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the retaining function directly into the ball joint box support structure itself, rather than using separate retaining elements. The support includes guide ramps and holding elements that are formed as integral parts of the support structure, eliminating the need for additional discrete retaining components while maintaining secure connection.
3Reliability
If specific tools such as pliers and crimpers are used to crimp the ball joint box onto the crank pin, then the assembly reliability is improved, but the ease of operation decreases and specialized equipment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The ball joint box support is designed to be self-assembling onto the connecting rod through its integrated structural features. The guide ramps and holding elements in the support structure enable the component to be attached without requiring external crimping tools or specialized equipment, making the assembly process accessible with basic tools while maintaining reliable mechanical engagement.
4Strength
If the ball joint box is overmolded onto the connecting rod, then the connection strength is improved, but the assembly complexity and manufacturing effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support function with the ball joint box structure itself, creating an integrated component that provides both structural support and attachment functionality. This integration eliminates the need for separate overmolding operations while maintaining strong mechanical connection through the combined support-box structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a support (27) of a ball-joint housing (28) for a connecting rod (20) of a windshield wiper actuating linkage system, the support (27) having a ball-joint housing (28) that extends along a longitudinal axis (B) and is configured to be received in a complementary orifice (201) in the connecting rod (20). According to the invention, the support (27) is configured to be rotationally joined to the connecting rod (20). The invention also relates to a connecting rod (20) configured to be rotationally joined to such a support (27), and to the corresponding joining method.