Windshield Sensor Wiper Mounting for Precise Holding Positions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wiper arrangements for vehicles are complex, inefficient in energy use, and prone to failure, particularly when attempting to clean sensor fields of vision on windshields without obstructing the main field of view or damaging optical sensors.

Innovation Solution

A wiper arrangement with a carrier and wiping element that is fastened to the windshield, allowing for 360° rotation or pivoting to clean the sensor field of vision without obstructing the main view, utilizing the kinetic energy of the windshield wiper blade for actuation and featuring magnetic and spring-based holding mechanisms to ensure precise positioning and reduced mechanical stress.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a wiper arrangement is added to clean the sensor field of vision, then the sensor field of vision can be cleaned, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor field of vision cleaningVSAvoidwiper arrangement structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the sensor field of vision cleaning function with the existing main field of vision wiper blade. The wiping element is integrated into the carrier that is already part of the main wiper system, allowing both cleaning functions to be performed by a single integrated structure rather than separate independent systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The wiper blade is designed to perform multiple functions: cleaning both the main field of vision and the sensor field of vision. The carrier structure serves dual purposes by supporting both the main wiper blade and the wiping element for sensor cleaning, making the system multi-functional and reducing overall complexity.

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

2Reliability

If a separate wiper arrangement is installed for the sensor field of vision, then cleaning function is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to additional control systems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor field of vision cleaningVSAvoidwiper control system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control systems are merged into a single integrated control mechanism. The control unit receives signals and coordinates both the main wiper blade and the wiping element simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate control systems and simplifying operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit is designed to perform multiple control functions: it controls both the main wiper blade operation and the wiping element actuation. This multi-functional control approach reduces the number of separate control systems needed and simplifies the overall operation.

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

3Stability of the object's composition

If the carrier is fastened directly to the windshield, then the stability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecarrier positioningVSAvoidfastening alignment
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening mechanism uses adjustable parameters such as frictional interlocking force and negative pressure levels to achieve stable positioning without requiring high manufacturing precision. The carrier can be fastened through frictional interlocking or material interlocking with the windshield, allowing for tolerance in positioning while maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening system introduces intermediary mechanisms such as frictional interlocking and negative pressure generation as mediators between the carrier and windshield. These intermediaries provide adaptive positioning that compensates for manufacturing tolerances and ensures stable attachment without requiring precise alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Area of stationary object

If the wiping element can rotate 360°, then the cleaning coverage is improved, but the mechanical stress on the mounting increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor field of vision coverageVSAvoidmounting durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates cushioning elements and damping mechanisms in the mounting structure before mechanical stress occurs. These elements absorb and distribute the stresses generated during 360° rotation, preventing concentration of forces that would lead to mounting failure and extending the durability of the connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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 solution ensures the sensor field of vision is cleaned without obstructing the main view, using existing wiper blade energy and reducing mechanical stress, thus enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the wiper arrangement.

Implementation Method 1

the carrier may be provided with a device for providing a negative pressure between the carrier and the windshield

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNegative pressure: Pressure Drop

Implementation Method 2

or with an adhesive surface, so that a normal suction force or an adhesive interlock is generated between the carrier and the windshield

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive interlock: Adhesive

Implementation Method 3

the carrier may be fastened directly to the windshield, in particular by a frictional interlocking or a material interlocking

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11987214B2Vehicle
Publication Date: 2024.05.21 BOMBARDIER TRANSPORTATION GMBH
  • US11987214B2 patent drawing
  • US11987214B2 patent drawing
  • US11987214B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wiper arrangement for a vehicle is configured for cleaning a sensor field of vision of a windshield and thereby has a wiping element and a carrier. The carrier can be fastened on the windshield. The wiping element is movably mounted on the carrier. The carrier, the wiping element and/or mounting elements acting between the carrier and the wiping element is/are configured so that the wiping element can assume at least one fixed holding position-relative to the carrier, and wherein the wiping element can be brought out of the fixed holding position at least by overcoming a defined holding force. Furthermore, the mounting of the wiping element on the carrier is selected such that the wiping element is always driven to assume at least one specific, preferably a first holding position or second specific holding position with respect to the carrier.