End Cap Tab Notch Retention for Wiper Longitudinal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wiper assemblies face challenges in retaining the wiping element from longitudinal movement, which affects wiper assembly clearance and stability, particularly during assembly and operation.
Innovation Solution
The end cap design includes a body with at least one tab that fits into a notch on the wiping element, along with an elongated support member, airfoil, and coupler, to securely retain the wiping element from longitudinal movement, enhancing assembly clearance and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional attachment methods are used to assemble wiper components, then the wiper assembly can be constructed, but the wiping element is not retained from longitudinal movement
Solution Approach 1:
The tab is nested within the notch of the wiping element, creating a secure retention mechanism where the tab fits inside the notch to prevent longitudinal movement of the wiping element relative to the end cap
Solution Approach 2:
The tab acts as an intermediary retention feature between the end cap and the wiping element, providing a mechanical interface that prevents longitudinal movement without requiring complex attachment mechanisms
2Manufacturing precision
If the wiping element is not retained from longitudinal movement, then assembly is simpler, but wiper assembly clearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tab-notch nested structure provides precise positional control of the wiping element, ensuring proper clearance relationships with surrounding components while maintaining a simple retention mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The notch in the wiping element serves dual purposes: it provides the retention interface for the tab while also establishing the precise positional relationship needed for proper clearance, eliminating the need for separate positioning features
Data Source
AI summary
An end cap for retaining a wiping element of a wiper assembly includes a body adapted to be disposed over a portion of a wiping element of the wiper assembly and the body includes at least one tab adapted to be disposed in at least one notch of the wiping element of the wiper assembly to retain the wiping element from longitudinal movement relative thereto.