Universal Wiper Coupler Assembly for Multiple Arm Types
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aftermarket wiper assemblies face compatibility issues with various wiper arm attachment members, limiting options for replacement and increasing costs due to the need for multiple coupler assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A universal coupler assembly featuring a carrier and saddle with a locking mechanism, designed to accommodate different types of wiper arm attachment members, such as pinch-type, push-button-type, side-pin-type, and pin-and-bent-tab-type, allowing for interchangeable use with multiple wiper arm styles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-style wiper coupler is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but compatibility with various wiper arm attachment members is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper coupler assembly is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of wiper arm attachment members including pinch-type, push-button-type, side-pin-type, and pin-and-bent-tab-type attachments. The carrier and saddle configuration creates a standardized mounting interface that adapts to various attachment styles without requiring different coupler designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler assembly features a nested structure where the saddle is received within the carrier, and the wiper arm attachment member is received within the saddle. This nested configuration allows multiple functional elements to be integrated in a compact arrangement, enabling versatility without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple coupler assemblies are provided for different wiper arm styles, then compatibility is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal coupler assembly design replaces the need for multiple specialized coupler types. The standardized carrier and saddle interface can adapt to various wiper arm attachment members through configuration changes rather than requiring entirely different coupler assemblies, thereby reducing inventory complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler assembly is divided into separable components (carrier and saddle) that can be independently configured or replaced. This segmentation allows the same basic assembly structure to accommodate different attachment member types by changing specific components rather than requiring completely different assemblies.
3Ease of manufacture
If a universal coupler assembly is implemented, then compatibility and cost are improved, but assembly complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier and saddle are designed to be assembled together as an integrated unit, combining multiple functions into a single assembly process. This merging reduces the number of separate assembly steps required compared to using multiple different coupler types, thereby simplifying the overall assembly process despite the universal functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler assembly incorporates self-aligning and self-retaining features that reduce the skill level and time required for assembly. The design allows the components to automatically position and secure themselves during installation, minimizing the complexity of the assembly process from the user perspective.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal coupler assembly for a wiper assembly includes a carrier adapted to be mounted to the wiper assembly and a saddle that is removably received and retained by the carrier. The saddle is slideably mounted in a side of the carrier and includes a locking mechanism to provide releasable engagement with the carrier. The carrier and saddle cooperate to accommodate various sizes of “pinch-type” wiper arm attachment members, “push-button-type” attachment members, as well as “side-pin-type” and “pin-and-bent-tab-type” attachment members that are used to connect the wiper arm and the wiper assembly.