Pivotable Wiper Arm Securing Element for Assembly Visibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing wiper device design makes it difficult for users to visually align and mount the wiper blade with the wiper arm due to the obstructive securing element, leading to unfriendly and challenging assembly processes.

Innovation Solution

The securing element is made pivotable in addition to its longitudinal displaceability, allowing it to be positioned for clear visibility of the connection area between the wiper arm and wiper blade adapter, with features like ribbing and stop elements to facilitate assembly and prevent accidental detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the securing element is arranged in a fixed position on the wiper arm, then the wiper blade is securely fixed, but the connection area is obscured making assembly difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of wiper blade assemblyVSAvoidvisibility of connection area
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The securing element is made pivotable relative to the wiper arm, allowing it to move between a first position during assembly where it covers the connection area, and a second position during operation where it secures the wiper blade. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction by providing visibility when needed while maintaining security when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the securing element is made movable to improve visibility, then assembly becomes easier, but the risk of accidental detachment increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of wiper blade assemblyVSAvoidsecurity of wiper blade attachment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The securing element's pivotability is controlled through a defined range of motion with stops at specific positions. The element can pivot to the first position for assembly visibility and to the second position for secure attachment, but cannot accidentally detach due to the constrained angular movement and positioning stops.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The securing element acts as an intermediary between the wiper arm and wiper blade, providing both visibility control and secure attachment. Its dual-position design allows it to mediate between the conflicting requirements of assembly accessibility and operational security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If the securing element covers the connection area during operation, then the wiper blade is securely retained, but visual alignment during mounting is prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveretention of wiper bladeVSAvoidvisual alignment during mounting
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The securing element dynamically changes its position based on the operational phase. During mounting, it pivots to the first position that allows visual alignment while still providing retention through the positioning stops. During operation, it pivots to the second position that maximizes retention security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2797786B1Wiper device for cleaning vehicle windows
Publication Date: 2016.08.17 VALEO SYST DESSUYAGE SAS
  • EP2797786B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2797786B1 patent drawingFigure 4~9
  • EP2797786B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

The invention relates to a wiper device (100) for cleaning vehicle windows (1), having an interchangeably fastened wiper blade (10) on a wiper arm (2), said wiper blade being connected to the wiper arm (2) by means of a wiper blade adapter (11). In the fastening region with the wiper blade (10), the wiper arm (2) has a substantially U-shaped cross-section gripping the wiper blade adapter (11). A moveably arranged securing element (27) for the wiper blade adapter (11) is provided in the connecting area on the wiper arm (2), at least in the longitudinal direction of the wiper arm (2), covering the wiper arm (2) in the connecting area, at least in certain sections, and has a substantially U-shaped cross section, with retaining sections (46, 47) projecting inwards in the direction of the wiper blade adapter (11). According to the invention, the securing element (27) is additionally arranged on the wiper arm (2) in a manner such that it can be pivoted in order to be longitudinally displaceable.