Universal Windshield Wiper Connector for Multiple Arm Types
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing windshield wiper systems require multiple configurations for different wiper arms, leading to increased complexity and cost in manufacturing and replacement, particularly for pin-plus-locking-arm wiper arms, which limits consumer options and necessitates expensive dealership replacements.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece windshield wiper connector designed to accommodate various pin-type and pin-plus-locking-arm wiper arms, featuring a peripheral wall with retaining pin apertures and locking tab apertures, allowing secure attachment to multiple wiper arm configurations without the need for separate connectors for each type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wiper blade configurations are used to accommodate different wiper arms, then compatibility with various wiper arms is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single wiper blade configuration with a standardized connector that can accommodate multiple types of wiper arms (hook-type, pin-type, and pin-plus-locking-arm). This eliminates the need for multiple specialized configurations, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining broad compatibility across different vehicle models and wiper arm designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wiper blade configurations are maintained in inventory, then compatibility with various wiper arms is improved, but inventory cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal connector design allows a single wiper blade model to serve multiple vehicle types and wiper arm configurations. This reduces the number of distinct SKUs that dealers and retailers must stock, as one standardized blade can replace what would previously require multiple specialized blade variants to cover the same market segment.
3Reliability
If specialized connectors are used for pin-plus-locking-arm wiper arms, then secure attachment is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with a unified structure that handles pin-plus-locking-arm wiper arms through the same basic mechanism used for other wiper arm types. The connector features a retention system that adapts to different pin configurations and locking arm variations without requiring specialized components, thereby maintaining secure attachment while avoiding the need for complex, type-specific connector designs.
4Reliability
If type-specific wiper blades are required for different wiper arms, then proper fit and function are improved, but replacement cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized connector enables a single wiper blade design to properly fit and function across multiple wiper arm types. This universality allows consumers to purchase one blade type for their vehicle regardless of the specific wiper arm configuration, and enables quicker replacement since they don't need to identify and source a specialized blade variant, thereby reducing both replacement time and the risk of improper installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for a windshield wiper, and a wiper blade assembly including same, that accommodates multiple pin-type windshield wiper arms having varying pin lengths and locking mechanisms. The connector for connecting a windshield wiper assembly to a wiper arm may have a peripheral wall having at least two opposing peripheral side walls and a top surface extending from one of the two opposing peripheral side walls to the other. The opposing peripheral side walls may each have one or more retaining pin apertures aligned with one another and sized to be capable of slideably accepting a retaining pin of at least one pin-type and/or pin-plus-locking-arm windshield wiper arm.