Universal Coupler for Beam Blade Wiper Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beam blade windshield wiper assemblies are limited in compatibility with different wiper arm attachment members, requiring multiple replacement assemblies and increasing costs, as they are typically designed for a single style of wiper arm attachment member.
Innovation Solution
A universal coupler subassembly is introduced for beam blade windshield wiper assemblies, allowing for releasable attachment to various wiper arm attachment members with different configurations, such as those with tracks, pins, and bent tabs, through a modular coupler design that includes flanges, elevated platforms, and engaging members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-style wiper coupler is used, then the manufacturing and design process is simplified, but compatibility with different wiper arm attachment members is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper coupler is designed with multiple engagement configurations that can adapt to different wiper arm attachment member styles (J-hooks, pins, tracks, etc.). The coupler body includes multiple engagement surfaces and adjustable components that allow a single coupler design to interface with various attachment member types, providing universal compatibility without requiring multiple specialized coupler designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple replacement wiper assemblies are purchased for different wiper arm styles, then compatibility is ensured, but costs and packaging requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler design enables a single wiper blade assembly to replace multiple specialized assemblies by providing universal compatibility with different wiper arm attachment styles through its multi-configurable engagement mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper assembly is divided into separable components (wiper blade, coupler, mounting hardware) that allow the coupler to be independently selected and configured for different attachment member styles while using a common wiper blade body.
3Reliability
If a specialized coupler is designed for each wiper arm style, then precise fit and reliability are achieved, but manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single coupler design with multiple engagement surfaces and adjustable features provides reliable connections across different wiper arm styles without requiring separate specialized coupler designs for each style.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler incorporates movable and adjustable components that can be positioned or configured to match different attachment member geometries, allowing the same coupler body to dynamically adapt to various styles while maintaining secure engagement.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a wiper blade system (22) that includes a wiper blade assembly (26) having a wiping element (36), at least one elongated beam (44) and a carrier (66) that is operatively engaged to the elongated beam. The wiper blade assembly (22) further includes an airfoil (54) and a coupler (120, 320) that is removably engaged to the carrier (66) and adapted to releasably attach the wiper blade assembly (26) to a wiper arm attachment member (34). The coupler (120, 320) is universal in that it is used for connecting the wiper blade assembly (26) to various styles of wiper arms.