Universal Wiper Adapter for Multiple Arm Configurations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting apparatuses for wiper blades are limited in their ability to accommodate various wiper arm configurations, requiring multiple adapters for different joining elements, which increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A versatile adapter with integrated mounting and fixing mechanisms, including holding cams, steps, locking mechanisms, and a longitudinal web with bearing journals, allows for the secure attachment of multiple wiper arm types, including those with u-shaped, cranked, and hook-shaped ends, enabling flexible and efficient connection options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate adapters are used for different wiper arm configurations, then compatibility with various joining elements is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed with multiple holding cams (first, second, third holding cams) that can engage with different types of joining elements (u-shaped, cranked, hook-shaped ends). This single multi-functional adapter replaces the need for multiple separate adapters, thereby improving versatility while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is divided into functional segments including holding cams, steps, locking mechanisms, and a longitudinal web with bearing journals. Each segment serves a specific function in accommodating different joining element types, allowing the adapter to handle various configurations through modular engagement mechanisms
2Device complexity
If a single versatile adapter is used for multiple wiper arm configurations, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different holding cams are positioned at specific locations on the adapter to engage with different types of joining elements. Each holding cam is designed with specific geometric properties suited for its intended joining element type (u-shaped, cranked, or hook-shaped), allowing precise engagement without requiring the entire adapter to be overly complex
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter incorporates a locking mechanism that can dynamically adjust to secure different joining element types. The locking mechanism works in conjunction with the holding cams to provide adaptive securing, allowing the same adapter structure to maintain precision across multiple configurations through dynamic engagement rather than static rigid design
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting apparatus (24) for hinging a joining element (100, 102, 104, 142, 152, 162, 122 166), which is rigidly connected to a wiper arm, by way of an adapter (62), which is held non-rotatably by the joining element (100, 102, 104, 142, 152, 162, 166), to a connecting element (26) fastened to a wiper blade (10), wherein between the connecting element (26) and the adapter (62) a joint (52, 82) running transversely to the longitudinal direction of the wiper blade (10) is provided, and the adapter (62) forms a frame of two side walls (64) of a front end wall (66) and a rear end wall (70), the frame being partially covered toward the top in the region of the front end wall (66) by a cover wall (68) such that an opening (74) remains toward the rear end wall (70). It is proposed that the adapter (62) has means (76, 78, 80, 86) which are suited for mounting and fixing three different joining elements (100, 102, 104).