Universal Wiper Adapter Assembly With Flexible Spacer Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper systems require multiple adapter assemblies for different wiper arm designs, causing inconvenience for users when changing wiper blades.
Innovation Solution
An adapter assembly with a spacer that includes flexible tabs and deformable portions to accommodate various wiper arm designs, allowing universal compatibility and secure mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapter assemblies are designed for different wiper arm designs, then compatibility with various wiper arms is improved, but device complexity and user convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple types of wiper arms through a single design. The adapter includes a body with a mounting hole for the wiper blade and a receptacle with engagement features that can interface with different yoke configurations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized adapters.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly incorporates movable or adjustable components that allow it to adapt to different wiper arm configurations. The receptacle can accommodate variations in yoke geometry through flexible engagement mechanisms, enabling a single adapter design to work with multiple wiper arm types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapter assemblies are designed for different wiper arm designs, then compatibility with various wiper arms is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple types of wiper arms through a single design. The adapter includes a body with a mounting hole for the wiper blade and a receptacle with engagement features that can interface with different yoke configurations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized adapters.
3Device complexity
If a single adapter assembly design is used for all wiper arms, then device complexity and ease of operation are improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly incorporates movable or adjustable components that allow it to adapt to different wiper arm configurations. The receptacle can accommodate variations in yoke geometry through flexible engagement mechanisms, enabling a single adapter design to work with multiple wiper arm types.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly acts as an intermediary component between the wiper blade and the wiper arm. It includes a body that interfaces with the wiper blade connector and a receptacle that engages with the wiper arm yoke, mediating the connection between components with different geometries and enabling compatibility across various designs.
4Ease of operation
If a single adapter assembly design is used for all wiper arms, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly acts as an intermediary component between the wiper blade and the wiper arm. It includes a body that interfaces with the wiper blade connector and a receptacle that engages with the wiper arm yoke, mediating the connection between components with different geometries and enabling compatibility across various designs.
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
Enables easy and secure attachment of wiper blades to different wiper arm types, reducing the need for multiple adapter assemblies and simplifying the replacement process.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible tab may include at least a deformable portion. The deformable portion may be configured to deform towards the upper wall. When the wiper arm is completely inserted over the spacer, the flexible tab regains neutral position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an adapter assembly for a vehicle wiper system. The adapter assembly includes a base member, a tilting member, a locking cap and a spacer. The base member is pivotally mounted on a connector of a wiper blade, and the tilting member is pivotally mounted at rear end of the base member. The spacer is mounted on the tilting member allowing connection of wiper arms with different designs with the adapter assembly. The spacer includes a flexible tab provided near lower face, which deforms while sliding the wiper arm on the spacer for engagement. When the wiper arm is completely slid over the spacer, the flexible tab comes back to neutral state to cooperate with folded edges of the wiper arm and restricts rearward movement of the arm with respect to the spacer.