Linear Wiper Assembly to Reduce Sensor Obstruction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional wiper systems for motor vehicles have bulk issues due to the presence of wiper arms and motors, which obstruct detection modules on glazed surfaces, particularly in vehicles with increased numbers of detection modules.

Innovation Solution

A simplified wiper system with an embedded motorized member that drives a linear movement of the blade rubber along the glazed surface, reducing bulk by integrating the motor within the main body and using guide means such as notched belts or gutters for smooth displacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a conventional wiper system with wiper arm and motor is used, then the glazed surface can be cleaned, but the bulk of the system increases and obstructs detection modules

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning capabilityVSAvoidsystem bulk
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The motor is extracted from the conventional wiper arm assembly and repositioned to the periphery of the detection module, eliminating the need for a bulky central motor housing and reducing overall system volume while maintaining cleaning functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The wiper blade motion is changed from rotational movement around a central axis to linear reciprocating motion along the glazed surface, achieved through a lead screw mechanism that converts rotational motor output into linear blade displacement, thereby reducing lateral bulk

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If the motor is arranged in the vicinity of the glazed surface, then the wiper blade can be driven, but the lateral bulk over the perimeter increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiper blade actuationVSAvoidlateral bulk
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The motor is repositioned from a central location near the glazed surface to the periphery of the detection module, and the drive mechanism uses a lead screw to convert rotational motion into linear motion along the length of the blade, thereby minimizing lateral bulk while maintaining effective blade actuation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The wiper system is segmented into distinct functional components: the motor is separated and placed at the periphery, the lead screw mechanism is positioned along the blade assembly, and the blade itself is independently mounted, allowing each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromising overall compactness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 system effectively cleans the glazed surface while minimizing obstruction, ensuring optimal operation of detection modules by reducing bulk and maintaining a clear field of view for sensors.

Implementation Method 1

at least one fixed guide means configured to guide the linear movement of the main body along the glazed surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical constraint: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS12420746B2Wiper system for a glazed surface
Publication Date: 2025.09.23 VALEO SYST DESSUYAGE SAS
  • US12420746B2 patent drawing
  • US12420746B2 patent drawing
  • US12420746B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a wiper system for a glazed surface, with at least one main body which includes at least one blade rubber designed to come into contact with the glazed surface and at least one embedded motorized member for setting in motion, which is configured to drive a linear movement of the main body along the glazed surface.