Multi-Blade Wiper with Pivoting Subassembly for Debris Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional windshield wiper assemblies are ineffective in removing non-water soluble substances such as bugs, tree secretions, road dirt, grease, and oil from windshields, as they rely on single composite blades or require manual operation to switch between different blade configurations.
Innovation Solution
A windshield wiper blade assembly with a blade subassembly featuring three blades - two scrubbing blades made of porous abrasive material and a central rubber blade, pivotally mounted to oscillate and engage the windshield in different positions to effectively remove water and debris without manual or powered actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single conventional wiper blade is used, then the structure is simple and easy to operate, but it is ineffective for removing non-water soluble substances such as bugs, tree secretions, road dirt, grease and oil
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper blade is divided into three separate blade components (first blade, second blade, third blade) mounted side-by-side, each capable of performing different cleaning functions. This segmentation allows the system to handle both water-soluble and non-water-soluble substances effectively while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-blade assembly provides universal cleaning capability by combining different blade types (scrubbing blades and conventional wiper blades) in one unit, enabling the system to remove various substances including water, bugs, tree secretions, road dirt, grease and oil without requiring separate wiper systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple blades are arranged in a Y configuration with manual rotation, then different blade types can be selected, but the driver must be outside the car to position the blade assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The blade subassembly is designed to pivot dynamically between different positions based on the direction of movement of the wiper arm. During oscillating motion, the subassembly automatically shifts to engage different blades with the windshield, eliminating the need for manual positioning while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-positioning through the oscillating motion itself, which automatically causes the blade subassembly to pivot and select the appropriate blade configuration without requiring driver intervention or manual adjustment.
3Extent of automation
If an electrically operated actuator is used to tilt a blade into operating position, then blade selection is automated, but the driver must operate a switch to select the particular blade to use
Solution Approach 1:
The blade subassembly automatically selects and positions the appropriate blade for operation through the oscillating motion of the wiper arm itself, without requiring any driver input or electrical actuators. The system uses the existing mechanical motion to achieve automated blade selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable blade subassembly dynamically responds to the direction of wiper arm movement, automatically transitioning between different blade engagement positions during the oscillating cycle, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms.
4Reliability
If gaps are eliminated between blade components, then dirt removal is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The blade assembly is segmented into three distinct blade components mounted side-by-side on a common support strip, allowing each blade to be optimized for specific cleaning functions while maintaining close spacing to prevent dirt accumulation in gaps.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple blade components are merged into a single integrated assembly that moves together as one unit during wiper operation, eliminating gaps between components and preventing dirt accumulation while maintaining a manageable structural complexity.
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 assembly efficiently removes water and non-water soluble substances without driver intervention, using the oscillating motion to selectively engage different blades, ensuring effective cleaning without scratching the glass surface.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanism for wiping rain water and debris from the windshield to enable the driver to see the road ahead. Typically there is a pair arms that that move in an oscillating manner over the windshield when driven by a motor
Implementation Method 2
Movement in the first direction causes engagement with the windshield to exert a force which pivots the blade subassembly into a first position
Implementation Method 3
the first and third blades are formed of a scrubbing material, that preferably is porous and has an abrasive surface which does not scratch glass
Implementation Method 4
The conventional automobile windshield wiper blade assembly is sufficient for wiping water and water soluble materials from the windshield
Data Source
AI summary
A windshield wiper blade assembly has a blade arm to which a blade subassembly is pivotally coupled. The blade subassembly includes a first blade, a second blade, and a third blade located side-by-side. The first and third blades are formed of a scrubbing material for debris and the second blade is formed of a rubber-like material. Movement in a first direction causes engagement with the windshield to exert a force that pivots the blade subassembly into a first position in which the first and second blades contact the windshield and the third blade is spaced from the windshield. Movement in an opposite second direction causes engagement with the windshield to exert another force which pivots the blade subassembly into a second position in which the second and third blades are in contact with the windshield and the first blade is spaced from the windshield.