Pantograph Wiper Connecting Member for Translational Adaptor Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pantographic wiper systems lack a mechanism for translational assembly and disassembly of the adaptor and wiper blade, which complicates connections and affects aerodynamics and liquid supply for cleaning.

Innovation Solution

A connecting member with a 'U-shape' section and bended claws is introduced, allowing for translational assembly of the adaptor between the first and second pivot links, enhancing aerodynamics and enabling liquid connection for cleaning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a traditional rigid connection is used between the adaptor and wiper blade, then structural strength is maintained, but assembly and disassembly operations become complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The connection device is segmented into multiple functional elements: guide claws for alignment, a locking mechanism with movable locking elements, and release buttons. This segmentation allows the connection process to be divided into simple sequential steps (alignment → engagement → locking) that are easy to perform while maintaining strong connection through the distributed locking elements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection device acts as an intermediary component between the adaptor and wiper blade, providing a specialized interface that simplifies the connection operation. The guide claws and locking elements serve as intermediary mechanisms that mediate the assembly process, making it intuitive and easy to perform while ensuring secure connection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the connecting member has a compact design, then aerodynamics is improved, but the range of motion for assembly is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaerodynamic dragVSAvoidassembly range of motion
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection device incorporates dynamic elements including movable guide claws that can flex during assembly, and a locking mechanism with movable locking elements that engage and disengage. This dynamic design allows the connection device to adapt its shape during assembly operations, providing sufficient range of motion while maintaining a compact aerodynamic profile during wiper operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the connecting device is positioned between the pivot links, then aerodynamics and liquid supply are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaerodynamic drag and liquid supply efficiencyVSAvoidconnecting device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection device positioned between the pivot links serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical connection and locking, guides alignment during assembly, supplies cleaning liquid through integrated channels, and maintains aerodynamic efficiency. This multi-functionality consolidates several required features into a single integrated component, managing complexity through functional integration rather than adding separate components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4212397B1Symmetrical connecting member of a wiper system of a pantographic type for cleaning a vehicle
Publication Date: 2025.02.12 VALEO SYST DESSUYAGE SAS
  • EP4212397B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4212397B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4212397B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present invention is directed towards a connecting member (14) of a wiper system (4) of a pantographic type for cleaning a vehicle (1) window, the connecting member (14) is configured to receive an adaptor (22) of the wiper system (4), the connecting member (14) comprising at least a first connection body (24) and a second connection body (26), the first connection body (24) comprising a first pivot link (28) configured to be attached to a first arm (6a) of the wiper system (4) and the second connection body (26) comprising a second pivot link (30) configured to be attached to a second arm 6b of the wiper system (4), the connecting member (14) comprising a connecting device (32) configured to allow a translational assembly of the adaptor (22), characterized in that the connecting device (32) is located between the first pivot link (28) of the first connection body (24) and the second pivot link (30) of the second connection body (26).