Universal Windshield Wiper Connector for Side-Saddle Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost associated with manufacturing connectors for windshield wiper blades to accommodate various wiper arm configurations, particularly for side-saddle wiper arms, result in limited and expensive aftermarket replacement options for consumers.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece or few-piece windshield wiper connector with a mounting portion and a side-saddle portion, featuring a wiper blade securing element and a receiving cavity with a cantilever locking tab, designed to securely attach to wiper blades and side-saddle wiper arms, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wiper blade configurations are used to accommodate all existing wiper arms, then compatibility with various wiper arms is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single wiper blade configuration with a multi-functional connector that can accommodate multiple wiper arm types (hook-type, pin-type, and side-saddle arms). The connector integrates multiple attachment mechanisms into one universal design, eliminating the need for multiple specialized wiper blade configurations while maintaining compatibility across different arm types.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional components: a mounting base for attachment to the wiper blade, a receiving cavity for different arm types, and interchangeable or adjustable attachment elements. This segmentation allows the single connector design to adapt to various wiper arm configurations through modular attachment mechanisms rather than requiring entirely different wiper blade designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If specialized connectors are designed for side-saddle wiper arms, then compatibility with side-saddle arms is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the specialized side-saddle arm attachment functionality with the universal connector design. The receiving cavity and attachment elements are integrated into the single connector structure, allowing side-saddle arm compatibility to be achieved without requiring a separate specialized connector. This combining approach maintains ease of manufacture while expanding adaptability.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single connector design is used for all wiper arm types, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced, but compatibility with all wiper arm types may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates dynamic or adjustable elements that allow it to adapt to different wiper arm types. The attachment mechanism can be adjusted or configured to accommodate varying arm geometries, enabling a single static connector design to achieve dynamic compatibility across multiple arm types without compromising manufacturing simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
Novel connectors and wiper blade assemblies including same for securing windshield wiper blades and arms are described, including those that accommodate side-saddle wiper arms. A wiper blade connector may have a mounting portion comprising a wiper blade securing element, the wiper securing element being capable of securing a wiper blade, and a side-saddle portion comprising two side walls, a top wall and a bottom surface, defining a receiving cavity, said top wall having a cantilever with a locking tab.