Symmetric Wiper Blade End Fitting with Universal Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional end fittings for wiper blades require two different fittings for each blade end, increasing production complexity and equipment needs.

Innovation Solution

A symmetrically designed end fitting with locking means, including elastic tongues and hooks, that can be mounted on either end of the wiper blade, allowing for universal compatibility and easy removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional asymmetric end fittings are used for each blade end, then proper locking engagement is achieved, but the number of different fittings increases and production complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking engagementVSAvoidnumber of different fittings
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry within symmetry by designing fittings that are symmetric in overall shape and mounting orientation but asymmetric in their internal locking feature configuration. Each fitting has a unique asymmetric locking geometry tailored to its specific blade end position, while the external form remains symmetric. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining reliable locking engagement through asymmetric internal features while avoiding the need for completely different fitting designs for each end.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal fitting design that can be used on both ends of the blade by incorporating symmetric external dimensions and mounting features. The fitting serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables locking engagement through its asymmetric internal features, and maintains aesthetic consistency. This multi-functionality approach reduces the number of different fitting types needed while ensuring proper locking engagement at each end.

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

2Reliability

If asymmetric locking features are produced for each fitting end, then proper vertebra locking is achieved, but production equipment requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevertebra lockingVSAvoidproduction equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the locking feature design from the overall fitting structure. The asymmetric locking features are designed as separate functional elements within the symmetric fitting body, allowing them to be manufactured independently or as integrated features using standardized production processes. This segmentation enables the use of common production equipment for both fittings while maintaining the necessary asymmetric locking characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements asymmetry only where functionally necessary - in the internal locking feature geometry - while maintaining symmetric external dimensions and manufacturing interfaces. This selective asymmetry allows the majority of the fitting to be produced using standard symmetric manufacturing equipment, reducing the need for specialized production tools while ensuring reliable vertebra locking through the asymmetric internal features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Reliability

If different fittings are used for each blade end, then proper locking engagement is achieved, but inventory complexity and equipment storage increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking engagementVSAvoidnumber of fitting types
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal fitting that performs multiple functions and can be installed on either blade end. The symmetric external design and standardized mounting features allow the same fitting type to serve both ends of the blade, eliminating the need to maintain separate inventory for left and right fittings. The asymmetric internal locking features are configured to work with the corresponding asymmetric receptacles at each blade end, ensuring reliable locking engagement while reducing fitting type diversity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent inverts the conventional approach by making the fitting symmetric and the blade end receptacles asymmetric, rather than making each fitting asymmetric to match each end. This inversion allows a single fitting design to be used on both ends, as the asymmetric locking engagement is achieved through the blade end receptacles rather than through different fitting geometries. This reduces inventory complexity while maintaining reliable locking engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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

Simplifies production by enabling a single fitting design for both ends of the wiper blade, reducing equipment requirements and facilitating easy replacement of worn components.

Implementation Method 1

the locking means comprises two elastic tongues, each of which is produced in a wall of the longitudinal housing, extending longitudinally in the direction of the second longitudinal end of the fitting, and wherein the free longitudinal end of each tongue is curved towards the inside of the longitudinal housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9902373B2End fitting for a wiper blade
Publication Date: 2018.02.27 VALEO SYST DESSUYAGE SAS
  • US9902373B2 patent drawing
  • US9902373B2 patent drawing
  • US9902373B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An end fitting for a wiper blade that can be mounted on a longitudinal end of the blade and that includes means for locking the end of the vertebra when in its inserted position in a longitudinal housing, the means are designed to engage with a slot made in a longitudinal edge of the end of the vertebra is disclosed, where the locking means are produced symmetrically with respect to a vertical longitudinal mid-plane of the longitudinal housing.