Variable Sweep Windshield Wiper Control for Multi-Vehicle Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional windshield wiper systems have fixed sweep angles and speeds, limiting compatibility with various vehicle types and windshield sizes, and lack the flexibility to adapt to different operating conditions, requiring hardware changes and reduced configurability.
Innovation Solution
A configurable windshield wiper system featuring a bidirectional motor, gearbox, and controller that adjusts sweep angle and speed dynamically, using sensors to control the motor position and speed, allowing for variable sweep configurations based on vehicle parameters and conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed sweep angle mechanism is used, then the mechanical structure is simple, but the adaptability to different vehicle types and windshield sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements variable sweep angle capability through a dynamically adjustable mechanism that allows the wiper arm to change its sweeping range. The system includes an indexable eccentric plate with multiple positions that can be selected to change the sweep angle, transforming a static mechanical structure into a dynamic one that adapts to different vehicle types and windshield sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper system is designed with multi-functionality to accommodate different vehicle platforms. By incorporating an indexable eccentric plate with multiple predetermined positions and a variable speed control system, a single wiper mechanism can serve multiple functions across different vehicle types, eliminating the need for completely different mechanical designs for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If constant sweep speed is used, then the motor control is simple, but the ability to adapt to different operating conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs variable speed control where the motor speed can be dynamically adjusted based on operating conditions. The controller receives inputs from sensors that detect vehicle speed and weather conditions, then dynamically modifies the wiper sweep speed to optimize performance for rain, snow, or ice removal under varying environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms through sensors that monitor vehicle speed and weather conditions. This feedback is processed by the controller to automatically adjust the wiper motor speed, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing operating conditions without requiring manual intervention.
3Manufacturing precision
If hardware changes are made for different platforms, then the sweep requirements are met, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal wiper mechanism design that can be adapted to different vehicle platforms without requiring completely different hardware. The indexable eccentric plate with multiple predetermined positions and the variable speed control system allow a single base design to meet different sweep angle and speed requirements across various vehicle types, simplifying manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of changing hardware components for different platforms, the system adjusts operational parameters such as sweep angle and speed through software control and mechanical indexing. The controller can be programmed with different parameter sets for different vehicle types, and the eccentric plate can be indexed to different positions, allowing precise sweep angle control without manufacturing different mechanical components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances compatibility with different vehicles and windshields by providing customizable sweep angles and speeds, reducing assembly complexity and costs, and enabling adaptive performance based on vehicle operating conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The motor is a brushless direct current motor
Implementation Method 2
the gear box configured to ratiometrically step down the number of turns at its output shaft relative to its input shaft
Implementation Method 3
The rotary motion of the electric motor is converted into oscillatory motion at the drive shaft by the crank-rocker mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable windshield wiper system for a variable sweep angle and/or variable sweep speed. The system includes a bidirectional motor, a gearbox, the gearbox having and input shaft operably coupled to the motor and an output shaft; the gear box configured to ratiometrically step down the number of turns at its output shaft relative to its input shaft; a wiper arm for sweeping a surface of a windshield, the wiper arm operably coupled to an output of the gearbox; and a controller in operable communication with the motor, the controller configured to execute an algorithm to control the position and speed of the motor to achieve a configured sweep angle and configured sweep speed for the wiper arm.