Windshield Washer Reservoir Pressurization Without Mechanical Pumps

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing windshield washer systems in vehicles rely on mechanical water pumps, which are prone to wear due to numerous rotating components, leading to inefficiencies and potential failure.

Innovation Solution

A device that uses a pressure regulating system to pneumatically convey windshield washer fluid using compressed air, eliminating the need for mechanical pumps by controlling air pressure within the reservoir to maintain a consistent fluid flow, and utilizing existing vehicle compressed air systems for pressurization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If mechanical water pumps are used to supply windshield washer fluid, then the fluid can be conveyed to nozzles, but the pumps are prone to wear and failure due to numerous rotating components

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical water pump system with a pneumatic fluid supply system. Compressed air is introduced into the washer fluid reservoir to create pressure that forces the fluid through hoses and nozzles, eliminating mechanical rotating components and their associated wear and failure modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses pneumatic pressure from compressed air to convey the windshield washer fluid. The compressed air system generates pressure that pushes the fluid through the delivery system, replacing the need for mechanical pumping while utilizing existing vehicle pneumatic infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

2Reliability

If separate compressed air systems are installed for fluid pressurization, then pneumatic fluid supply is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the existing compressed air system in the vehicle for multiple purposes: both for pneumatic brake operation and for windshield washer fluid supply. This multi-functional use eliminates the need for a separate dedicated compressed air system, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable pneumatic fluid supply.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Provides a low-wear, efficient, and reliable method for supplying windshield washer fluid, ensuring consistent flow rates and reducing the need for separate compressors or pumps, applicable to various vehicles including cars, trains, and ships.

Implementation Method 1

The washer fluid is forced out of the reservoir by the pressure built up inside it and is thus pneumatically conveyed to the corresponding windshield and/or headlight units

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPneumatic pressure: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentEP4406790B1Motor vehicle comprising a device for providing windscreen wiper water

Publication Date: 2025.12.17

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AI summary

The invention relates to a device 10 for supplying windshield washer fluid 1 to a motor vehicle 20. The device 10 comprises a washer fluid reservoir 2 for storing and supplying windshield washer fluid 1 and a pressure regulating device 3, which is configured to supply the washer fluid reservoir 2 with compressed air 4 in a controllable manner. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle 20 with a corresponding device 10 for supplying windshield washer fluid 1.