Universal Wiper Blade Adapter for Multi-Standard Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper devices require multiple adapters for different wiper-arm adapters, leading to inefficiencies in component usage and increased complexity, with a lack of user-friendly solutions for interchangeable connections.
Innovation Solution
A wiper device with a wiper-blade adapter featuring a coupling unit that can connect to multiple wiper-arm adapters, including at least five different types, utilizing an outer and inner unit in a fixed arrangement to create an accommodating space, which includes longitudinal and transverse form-fit elements and a guide element for easy fitting, allowing for stable and tool-free attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate adapters are used for different wiper-arm adapters, then compatibility with various wiper-arm adapters is achieved, but device complexity and component quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper-blade adapter is designed with a universal coupling unit that can connect to multiple types of wiper-arm adapters (at least five different types) through a single standardized interface. The coupling unit includes an accommodating space with form-fit elements that adapt to different wiper-arm adapter geometries, eliminating the need for multiple specialized adapters while maintaining compatibility across various standards.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple adapter functions are merged into a single wiper-blade adapter component. The coupling unit integrates the accommodating space, form-fit elements, and connection mechanisms into one unified structure that can interface with different wiper-arm adapter types, reducing the total number of components from multiple separate adapters to a single multi-functional adapter.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate adapters are used for different wiper-arm adapters, then compatibility with various wiper-arm adapters is achieved, but component-related efficiency and cost effectiveness decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper-blade adapter serves multiple functions by accommodating at least five different wiper-arm adapter types through a single standardized coupling unit. This multi-functionality reduces inventory requirements, simplifies assembly operations, and improves cost-effectiveness by eliminating the need to stock and install multiple different adapter types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple adapter functionalities into one integrated wiper-blade adapter, reducing the total component count and simplifying the assembly process. This merging of functions improves productivity by reducing the time and resources required for installation and maintenance operations.
3Device complexity
If a standardized coupling unit is used for multiple wiper-arm adapters, then component quantity is reduced, but fitting precision and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling unit incorporates localized form-fit elements within the accommodating space that are specifically designed to engage with different geometries of various wiper-arm adapters. These localized features provide precise form-fitting connections for each adapter type while maintaining the overall standardized structure, ensuring high fitting precision without compromising stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper-arm adapter is nested within the accommodating space of the coupling unit, with form-fit elements providing precise geometric engagement. This nested arrangement allows the standardized coupling unit to maintain high fitting precision through internal form-fit features while keeping the overall device complexity low.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a wiper device comprising a wiper blade adapter (10), which comprises at least one coupling unit (12) provided to produce a connection with at least two different wiper arm adapters (14, 16, 18, 20, 22), and at least one external unit (24) and at least one internal unit (26) which is at least partially embraced by the outer unit (24), which jointly delimit at least partially a receiving space (28) for the wiper arm adapters (14, 16, 18, 20, 22) and which are arranged at least substantially immovably relative to one another.