Wiper Arm Adapter With Offset Notches and Single Locking Stud

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing adapters for connecting wiper blades to wiper arms of different sizes are either too large or require significant vertical compression, limiting their adaptability to varying dimensions.

Innovation Solution

A compact adapter with a convex external profile, a single longitudinal locking stud, and elastically deformable positioning tabs with offset notches, allowing for secure mounting on wiper arms with different dimensions by accommodating varying hook sizes without increasing the adapter's overall height.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an adapter with multiple locking studs is used to accommodate different hook sizes, then adaptability to varying wiper arm dimensions is improved, but the overall height of the adapter increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different hook sizesVSAvoidoverall height of adapter

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter employs an elastically deformable body that can flexibly adapt to different hook dimensions. The elastic material allows the adapter to deform and conform to varying hook sizes without requiring multiple fixed-position locking studs, thereby maintaining a compact overall height while achieving adaptability across different wiper arm dimensions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the physical state of the adapter body from rigid to elastically deformable. This parameter change enables the adapter to dynamically adjust its shape and locking stud positions to match different hook sizes, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and compact dimensions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If an adapter with multiple locking studs is used to accommodate different hook sizes, then adaptability to varying wiper arm dimensions is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different hook sizesVSAvoidnumber of locking studs

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter uses a single locking stud on an elastically deformable body that can dynamically reposition itself to engage with hooks of different sizes. This eliminates the need for multiple fixed locking studs, reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The single locking stud on the elastically deformable adapter body serves multiple functions by adapting its position to accommodate different hook sizes. This universal design replaces the need for multiple specialized locking studs, simplifying the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If an adapter is mounted inside a small hook with significant vertical compression, then adaptability to small hook sizes is improved, but the stress on the adapter increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to small hook sizesVSAvoidvertical compression stress

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStress or pressure

Solution Approach 1:

The elastically deformable adapter body can dynamically adjust to the available space within small hooks, distributing compression forces through its flexible structure. This dynamic adaptation reduces stress concentration compared to rigid adapters that must be forcibly compressed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic material inherently provides cushioning against compression stresses before they become problematic. This prior cushioning effect protects the adapter from excessive stress when mounted in small hooks, preventing damage while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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 secure and adaptable mounting of wiper blades on wiper arms with different dimensions, ensuring a snug fit and easy assembly/disassembly while maintaining a compact design.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic element intended to be mounted elastically compressed against a facing portion of the concave closed-end of the end hook

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10543815B2Adapter for connecting the free end of a wiper arm, and assembly comprising an adapter and a wiper arm

Publication Date: 2020.01.28 VALEO SYST DESSUYAGE SAS

AI summary

An adapter for connecting a wiper blade to a U-shaped front end hook of a wiper arm includes a front body with convex external profile, configured to be received in a concave front closed-end of the end hook, at least one branch which extends longitudinally towards the rear from the front body and which carries a single projecting locking stud intended to be received in a locking slot of the end hook, of the wiper arm, and at least two transverse notches for the longitudinal positioning of the adapter. The at least two notches are longitudinally offset relative to one another. One or another of the at least two notches collaborates with a transverse edge of the end hook according to a dimension of the end hook. The locking stud is configured to push against the end hook in a first longitudinal direction.