Universal Windscreen Wiper Adapter Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current windscreen wiper adapters are not universal and require multiple varieties to accommodate different types of end pieces, making them impractical and uneconomical.
Innovation Solution
A universal adapter design featuring a longitudinal body with parallel walls, a cowling, and a transverse orifice to receive a cylindrical rod, allowing it to be used with both U-shaped and laterally locking end pieces, with elastic snap-fitting for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple varieties of adapters are produced to accommodate different types of end pieces, then compatibility with various end pieces is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter body is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple types of end pieces through a single design. The body includes a transverse orifice that receives the cylindrical rod of laterally locking end pieces, while the cowling with its transverse dimension larger than the body allows U-shaped end pieces to be mounted. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple adapter varieties, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is divided into distinct functional segments: the body with the transverse orifice for rod reception, the cowling with enlarged transverse dimension for U-shaped end piece accommodation, and the lateral face for bearing. This segmentation allows each part to serve its specific function while contributing to the overall universal compatibility, enabling one adapter design to handle multiple end piece types without increasing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple varieties of adapters are produced to accommodate different types of end pieces, then compatibility with various end pieces is improved, but manufacturing economy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a single universal adapter that can accommodate both U-shaped end pieces (through the cowling's enlarged transverse dimension) and laterally locking end pieces (through the body's transverse orifice), the manufacturer eliminates the need to produce multiple specialized adapter varieties. This reduces tooling costs, inventory requirements, and manufacturing complexity while maintaining full compatibility across different end piece types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cowling has a transverse dimension larger than the body, then compatibility with U-shaped end pieces is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is segmented into the body and the cowling as distinct components with specific functions. The body contains the transverse orifice for receiving cylindrical rods, while the cowling is designed with a transverse dimension larger than the body to accommodate U-shaped end pieces. This clear functional segmentation allows the enlarged cowling dimension to serve its specific purpose without unnecessarily complicating the overall adapter structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The body is nested within or integrated with the cowling, where the cowling's enlarged transverse dimension provides the necessary accommodation space for U-shaped end pieces while the body's transverse orifice remains accessible for rod reception. This nested arrangement allows both functional requirements to coexist in a unified structure without excessive complexity.
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
Enables the adapter to be mounted on multiple types of end pieces, including U-shaped and laterally locking types, providing a cost-effective and versatile solution for connecting wiper blades to windscreen wiper arms.
Implementation Method 1
the body of the adapter generally comprises an actuation button which is inserted by elastic snap-fitting into an orifice in a transverse wall of the end piece
Data Source
AI summary
Adapter for a windscreen wiper, in particular a motor vehicle windscreen wiper, said adapter being intended to connect a wiper blade (12) to an end piece (28′) of a first driving arm (14′), of the laterally locking type that is secured to a cylindrical rod (33) that defines an articulation axis of the adapter with respect to said blade, said adapter comprising a longitudinal body comprising two substantially parallel first longitudinal lateral wall that are connected together by a transverse wall, said body being connected at one longitudinal end to a cowling (46) that has a transverse dimension larger than said body, characterized in that said body has, at a longitudinal distance from said cowling, a transverse orifice (45) configured to receive said cylindrical rod, and in that said cowling comprises, on a first side of said adapter, a lateral face configured to cooperate with said end piece by bearing.