Self-Regulating Heated Wiper Blade for Efficient Deicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper blades with heating elements lack self-regulation, leading to inefficient and situationally inappropriate heating of the wiping strip.
Innovation Solution
A self-regulating semiconductor matrix heating element, positioned between copper conductors and insulated within the wiper blade, allows for optimal heating control by adjusting power based on temperature, with a fluoropolymer or polyolefin jacket and nickel-plated copper for enhanced corrosion resistance and mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a heating element is added to the wiper blade, then heating capability is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to lack of self-regulation
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is designed with inherent self-regulation capability through material selection and geometric design, allowing it to automatically adjust its heating output based on thermal conditions without external control systems. The element serves itself by utilizing its own thermal expansion and electrical resistance changes to modulate power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating element's electrical resistance and thermal conductivity parameters change dynamically with temperature and operational conditions. This parameter variability enables automatic power regulation, where the element draws more power when cold and less power when hot, achieving energy efficiency through physical property changes rather than electronic control.
2Reliability
If the heating element is made corrosion-resistant with nickel plating, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element employs a composite structure combining base metal with nickel plating. This composite approach provides superior corrosion resistance compared to unplated metal while using established electroplating technology that is well-integrated into existing manufacturing workflows, minimizing additional complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the heating element is made freely movable in transverse direction, then self-regulation is improved, but positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is designed with movable degrees of freedom in the transverse direction, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position in response to thermal expansion, mechanical stress, or installation variations. This dynamic capability enhances self-regulation by enabling the element to find its optimal operational position automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper blade structure incorporates localized flexible support zones and rigid positioning zones. The heating element is constrained in critical positioning areas to ensure manufacturing precision, while being permitted to move in transverse directions where adaptability benefits self-regulation. This spatial differentiation of constraints optimizes both precision and adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides adaptive and reliable heating to the wiping strip, ensuring optimal performance and longevity by maintaining efficient heating power adjustments and protection from environmental influences.
Implementation Method 1
a self-regulating semiconductor matrix heating element
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the conductors, preferably both conductors, is nickel-plated
Data Source
AI summary
A wiper blade (10), in particular for a motor vehicle, is proposed. This comprises a wiping bar (12) and a heating element (32). According to the invention, the heating element (32) is self-regulating.