Wiper Arm Adapter With Elastic Latching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adapter devices for wiper arms and blades lack a simple and reliable assembly mechanism, leading to operational inefficiencies and potential damage during installation.
Innovation Solution
The adapter device incorporates a wiper arm adapter with a displaceably mounted securing element and a wiper blade adapter featuring elastically deflectable latching means, which are designed to latch onto the securing element during assembly, ensuring a secure and compact connection while allowing for easy installation and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple pushing assembly mechanism is used for the wiper blade adapter to the wiper arm adapter, then the assembly process becomes straightforward, but the operational reliability and secure connection are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The latching means is designed to change its physical state from deflected (during assembly) to latched (in operational position). The elastic deflection allows the latching means to transition from a flexible state during insertion to a rigid locked state, changing the mechanical parameter of stiffness to achieve both easy assembly and secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is mounted in a displaceable manner on the wiper arm adapter, allowing it to move dynamically during assembly and operation. This dynamic positioning enables the securing element to engage with the latching means during pushing assembly while maintaining a stable locked position during operation, resolving the contradiction between simple assembly and reliable connection.
2Reliability
If rigid latching means are used to ensure secure connection, then operational reliability improves, but damage during assembly occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The latching means is designed with elastic properties that allow it to change its mechanical parameter of flexibility during assembly. In the deflected state, it is soft and compliant to avoid damage during insertion. Once in position, it transitions to a rigid latched state for secure connection, thus resolving the contradiction between rigidity for security and flexibility for damage-free assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic deflection capability of the latching means acts as a cushioning mechanism during assembly. The elastic material absorbs impact forces and prevents damage by allowing controlled deformation during the pushing process, while still providing a secure rigid connection once latched, thereby protecting against assembly damage while ensuring operational reliability.
3Device complexity
If the securing element is fixed in position on the wiper arm adapter, then structural simplicity is maintained, but the ability to engage and disengage the wiper blade adapter is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element transitions from a fixed position to a displaceable mounting on the wiper arm adapter. This dynamic capability allows the securing element to move during assembly to engage the latching means, and to be displaced during disassembly to release the connection. The dynamic nature adds minimal complexity while significantly improving operational ease for engagement and disengagement.
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
This solution enables a straightforward assembly process, enhances operational reliability by distributing force evenly, and prevents damage to the latching means during installation, while also allowing for simple disassembly and reassembly.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one latching means is designed to be elastically deflectable in a wiping direction
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an adapter device having a wiper arm adapter (10) that comprises a wiper arm adapter element (12) and a securing element (14) which is mounted so as to be able to slide on the wiper arm adapter element (12), the adapter device also having a wiper blade adapter (16) that comprises a connection element (18) which is provided to be inserted into the wiper arm adapter element (12) during assembly. According to the invention, the wiper blade adapter (16) includes at least one locking means (20) provided to be interlocked with the securing element (14) of the wiper arm adapter (10) during assembly.