Multiple Wiper Blade System with Fluid Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield wiper systems are inadequate for removing stubborn debris and ice, particularly on larger vehicles, requiring frequent and costly manual cleaning at service facilities, and existing multi-blade solutions are complex, expensive, and not widely accepted by manufacturers or consumers.
Innovation Solution
A multiple wiper blade system with connectors allowing quick installation of additional wiper blade assemblies, featuring a scraper blade with fluid conductivity for efficient debris removal, compatible with conventional manufacturing techniques and existing wiper systems, including a scraper blade with a water channel and apertures for uniform fluid distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single conventional wiper blade system is used, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but it is inadequate at removing stubborn debris and ice from the windshield
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper system is divided into multiple independent blade assemblies (typically two) that can be attached to the same wiper arm. Each blade can be optimized for specific functions (e.g., one for rain, one for ice/debris), allowing the system to handle multiple cleaning tasks simultaneously without requiring a completely new complex system
2Reliability
If multiple automated blade assemblies with motors and electronics are implemented, then debris removal capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper blades are designed to work passively with the existing wiper arm motion, utilizing the arm's natural movement to activate both blades simultaneously. No additional motors or electronic controls are needed—the system serves itself using the existing mechanical infrastructure of the vehicle's wiper system
Solution Approach 2:
The additional wiper blade assembly is designed to be compatible with existing wiper arm mounting systems, allowing it to integrate with conventional vehicles without requiring vehicle-specific modifications. The blade itself serves multiple functions by combining scraping, wiping, and fluid distribution capabilities in a single component
3Reliability
If the entire blade assembly system is replaced with a multi-blade system, then cleaning performance is improved, but installation complexity and consumer burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows customers to purchase and install only the additional blade assembly needed, rather than replacing the entire wiper system. This modular approach lets consumers upgrade incrementally and perform installation themselves using basic tools and the existing mounting hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses the existing wiper arm and mounting mechanism as an intermediary to connect and power the additional blade assembly. This intermediary approach allows the new blade to be integrated into the vehicle's existing infrastructure without requiring direct connection to the vehicle's electrical or mechanical systems
4Productivity
If conventional wiper systems are used on large vehicles with vertical windshields, then the system is simple, but debris accumulation is more severe and manual cleaning is required frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The additional wiper blade adds a second dimension of cleaning coverage to the windshield, allowing simultaneous action across a broader area. This is particularly effective on large, vertical windshields where a single blade must travel a longer path and may miss areas or require slower, more frequent passes
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 provides effective and cost-efficient windshield cleaning, reducing the need for manual cleaning and addressing the inefficiencies of existing wiper systems, while being manufacturing-friendly and consumer-friendly, with superior cleaning performance compared to single-blade systems.
Implementation Method 1
the scraper blade comprises an attachment surface for engaging a wiper assembly, a scraper surface for engaging a windshield, a channel for conducting wiper fluid, a plurality of apertures for disbursement of the wiper fluid onto a windshield
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple windshield wiper assembly is disclosed. The multiple windshield wiper assembly may comprise a first wiper assembly having a squeegee blade; a second wiper assembly having a scraper blade, the second wiper assembly being coupled to the first wiper assembly by a windshield wiper assembly connector; wherein the scraper blade comprises an attachment surface for engaging a wiper assembly, a scraper surface for engaging a windshield, a channel for conducting wiper fluid, a plurality of apertures for disbursement of the wiper fluid onto a windshield, and a water connection fitting for connection of the scraper blade to a vehicle water supply hose. A number of embodiments of a windshield wiper assembly connector for use in connecting one or more windshield wiper assemblies to pin-type and hookslot-type wiper arms are also disclosed.