Universal Wiper Module Programming for Vehicle Windscreens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wiper systems for vehicle windscreens require four different modules to accommodate left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles, leading to increased logistical costs and complexity due to fixed master and slave configurations.
Innovation Solution
A method where wiper modules are initially undefined and can be programmed to operate as either a left-hand or right-hand module based on vehicle-specific data, eliminating the need for separate master and slave configurations and reducing structural expenditure by allowing automatic detection of installation position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If four different wiper modules are produced for left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles with fixed master and slave configurations, then the wiper system can be reliably configured for specific vehicle types, but the logistical costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single wiper module that can function as either master or slave depending on programming. The control unit stores multiple program sequences (first program sequence for master mode, second program sequence for slave mode) and can switch between them based on installation configuration. This eliminates the need for four different module types while maintaining reliable configuration for both left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the wiper module's operational mode changeable through programming rather than fixed at manufacturing. The control unit can be programmed with different characteristics (first characteristic for master, second characteristic for slave) and can dynamically switch between program sequences based on the installation situation, allowing the same hardware to adapt to different vehicle configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If four different wiper modules are produced for left-hand and right-hand drive vehicles, then the correct module can be selected for each vehicle type, but the manufacturing and logistical costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing and logistical costs by producing only one type of wiper module that can be programmed for different vehicle types. Instead of maintaining four different module inventories (master/left, master/right, slave/left, slave/right), the system uses a single universal module with reconfigurable control software, significantly simplifying supply chain and inventory management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the wiper module through programming rather than through physical manufacturing variations. By storing multiple program sequences and switching between them based on installation configuration, the system achieves vehicle-type-specific functionality without requiring different hardware designs, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the wiper module is reprogrammed from slave to master mode, then the module can function correctly in the new configuration, but additional programming time and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing multiple program sequences (first program sequence for master mode, second program sequence for slave mode) in the control unit during manufacturing. The module comes with all necessary programming already embedded, requiring only a simple activation or selection process during installation rather than time-consuming reprogramming procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables quick mode switching through dynamic configuration where the control unit can activate different program sequences based on installation situation. The reconfiguration process is simplified to selecting between pre-loaded programs rather than writing new code, significantly reducing the time and complexity of adapting the module to different vehicle types.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for programming a wiper system for operating a vehicle windscreen wiper where a wiper module on the driver's side is programmed as a master module and a wiper module on the passenger's side is programmed as a slave module. The wiper modules include a reversing motor, a gear, a holder, and a control. A program sequence, vehicle-specific characteristic data and data for the operation of the wiper module as master or slave module are stored in the control. The wiper module on the driver's side is connected via an on-board wiring system interface and a first data communication line with a vehicle control unit. Provision is made that before the activation of the wiper module on the driver's side via the first data communication line in its control the wiper module is defined or respectively pre-programmed neither as master module nor as slave module.