Universal Wiper Connector with Flexible Wing Stops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers face difficulties in finding a windshield wiper blade that can be easily attached to their vehicle's wiper arm due to the availability of multiple types of connectors, which often come in separate packages and can be lost or not compatible, leading to a cumbersome shopping experience.
Innovation Solution
A universal connector with a base for attachment to a wiper blade and a receiving element that can accommodate multiple types of wiper arms, including pin, push tab button, insert & lock, and J-hook arms, using a single piece construction with flexible wing stops and an engagement tongue to securely attach various wiper arm classes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are supplied in separate packages or with the wiper blade, then compatibility with different wiper arm types is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to consumers having to deal with multiple connectors that can be lost or are not appropriate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single connector that can accommodate multiple types of wiper arms (pin type, J-hook type, push tab button type, and insert & lock type) through a unified receiving element structure. This eliminates the need for consumers to manage multiple separate connectors while maintaining compatibility across different wiper arm types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple connector functions into a single integrated connector assembly. The receiving element is designed to accept various wiper arm types within a single connector body, combining what would traditionally require multiple separate connectors into one unified component that simplifies the attachment process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are supplied, then compatibility with different wiper arm types is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates as connectors come as multiple pieces that are easy to lose
Solution Approach 1:
The universal connector design allows a single connector to serve multiple functions by accommodating different wiper arm types through its specially designed receiving element, eliminating the need to handle multiple separate connectors and reducing the risk of losing individual connector pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
By combining multiple connector functionalities into one integrated unit, the patent improves ease of operation. The single connector with its versatile receiving element structure accepts various wiper arm types without requiring consumers to manage multiple separate pieces, thus preventing loss and simplifying the attachment process.
3Device complexity
If a single connector is designed to accommodate multiple wiper arm types, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision must increase to ensure proper engagement with different arm types
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving element incorporates local quality variations through its specifically designed slot structure with engagement surfaces and support surfaces at different locations. These localized structural features are precisely engineered to accommodate different wiper arm types, with the slot dimensioned to snugly receive various arm surfaces while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2~7
AI summary
A connector (100) for connecting a wiper blade and multiple types of wiper arms, the connector (100) including a base (102) for attachment to a wiper blade. The connector (100) further includes a receiving element (104) attached to the base (102), the receiving element (104) having a structure to receive and be connected to at least six different wiper arms.