Windshield Wiper Adapter Segmentation for Universal Arm Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield wiper assemblies with spot welding make it difficult to replace squeegees, and adapters are typically specific to particular types of windshield wiper arms, limiting compatibility.
Innovation Solution
Design of adapters with a head, body, and specific features such as bulge portions, cutouts, holes, and leg portions that allow them to be used with various types of windshield wiper arms, including side pin, pinch tab, and hook arms, enabling easy attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If spot welding is used to secure the squeegee between spring steel pieces, then the windshield wiper assembly structure is simplified, but the squeegee replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion that interfaces with the wiper arm, a connector portion that interfaces with the wiper assembly bracket, and a receiving portion that accommodates the squeegee. This segmentation allows the squeegee to be easily detached by removing the adapter, while the welded spring steel structure remains intact and simplified.
2Reliability
If adapters are designed for specific windshield wiper arm types, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the adapter compatibility across different wiper arm types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter body incorporates multiple receiving portions with different geometries (first, second, and third receiving portions) that can accommodate various wiper arm types including side pin arms, pinch tab arms, and hook arms. The body can be selectively positioned and oriented to match different arm configurations, allowing a single adapter design to universally connect to multiple wiper arm types while maintaining secure connections.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter for a windshield wiper assembly includes a head; and a body connected to the head and configured to cooperate with a bracket of a windshield wiper assembly to attach the windshield wiper assembly to a windshield wiper arm, the body including a bulge portion, and a cutout defining portion.