Beam Blade Wiper Coupler for Multi-Arm Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beam blade windshield wiper assemblies are limited in compatibility with different wiper arm attachment members, restricting aftermarket options and requiring multiple replacements for various vehicle configurations.
Innovation Solution
A universal coupler assembly with an adapter that can securely engage multiple types of wiper arm attachment members, including hook-type, pin-type, and bayonet-type, allowing a single beam blade wiper assembly to replace multiple tournament-style wiper assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a beam blade windshield wiper assembly uses a single-style coupler designed for one type of wiper arm attachment member, then the coupling mechanism is simple and reliable, but compatibility with different wiper arm styles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly is designed with a universal adapter that can accommodate multiple types of wiper arm attachment members (hook-type, pin-type, bayonet-type) through a single unified interface. The adapter includes multiple receiving structures that can selectively engage with different attachment member styles, allowing one coupler design to serve multiple functions and achieve compatibility across various wiper arm types without requiring separate coupler designs for each style.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a base coupler body and a removable adapter section. The adapter can be segmented into different configuration options or replaced independently to match specific wiper arm types. This segmentation allows the main coupler structure to remain simple while the adapter portion provides the versatility to interface with multiple attachment member styles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the coupler assembly incorporates multiple adapter configurations to engage different wiper arm attachment members, then compatibility increases, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly incorporates movable or adjustable components within the adapter that can dynamically adapt to different wiper arm attachment member types. For example, the adapter may include movable lugs, adjustable clamps, or flexible receiving structures that can be positioned or configured to match the specific geometry of hook-type, pin-type, or bayonet-type attachment members, allowing a single adapter design to handle multiple configurations without requiring manual reconfiguration or multiple separate adapters.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary component between the standardized beam blade wiper assembly and various non-standardized wiper arm attachment members. This intermediary element translates between different attachment protocols, providing a universal interface that simplifies the connection process. The adapter absorbs the complexity of accommodating multiple attachment styles while presenting a unified, simple interface to the user during installation and replacement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal coupler assembly is designed to accommodate multiple wiper arm attachment member styles, then aftermarket options increase, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly employs a universal adapter design that can be manufactured as a single standardized component using conventional molding or machining processes. The adapter incorporates integrated features (such as molded-in receiving structures, built-in locking mechanisms, or formed metal brackets) that allow it to accommodate multiple wiper arm attachment member types without requiring post-manufacturing assembly or customization. This universal design approach enables economies of scale in manufacturing while providing broad compatibility in the aftermarket.
Solution Approach 2:
The design merges multiple attachment accommodation features into a single integrated adapter component rather than requiring separate adapters for each wiper arm type. The adapter combines various receiving structures, locking mechanisms, and mounting features into one unified part that can be produced in a single manufacturing process, reducing the number of separate components that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled, thereby simplifying production while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a wiper blade system that includes a wiper blade assembly having a wiping element, at least one elongated beam and a carrier that is operatively engaged to the elongated beam. The wiper blade assembly further includes an airfoil and a coupler assembly having a coupler and an adapter that is removably attached to the coupler. The coupler is removably secured the carrier and includes a corridor having a cross member extending therethrough that operatively receives the adapter. Together, the coupler and adapter facilitate mounting the wiper blade assembly to wiper arms having different wiper arm attachment members.