Movable Abutment Element in Wiper Blade Adapter

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current windscreen wiper adapter systems do not effectively utilize the abutment element during operation, as it is primarily designed for mounting assistance and not for limiting angular displacement during windshield wiping.

Innovation Solution

The adapter features a movable abutment element connected by a hinge, allowing it to switch between a functional and non-functional position, which can be retracted inside the adapter, enabling it to move from its abutment position to a non-functional position, facilitating operation by preventing interference with the wiper arm's movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the stop element is fixed in the adapter, then it can assist mounting by limiting angular deflection, but it interferes with the wiper arm's movement during operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting assistanceVSAvoidinterference with wiper arm movement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The stop element is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to change position dynamically. During mounting, the stop element projects outward to limit angular deflection and guide proper alignment. During operation, the stop element can be displaced inward by the wiper arm, eliminating interference while maintaining mounting benefits

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The stop element is separated from the main adapter body through a hinge connection, creating an independent movable component. This segmentation allows the stop element to perform its mounting function independently while being disengageable during operation, resolving the conflict between mounting assistance and operational interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-generated harmful factors

If the stop element is made movable to avoid interference, then operational smoothness is improved, but the mounting assistance function may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterference with wiper arm movementVSAvoidmounting assistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The stop element's movability is designed to be state-dependent: during mounting, gravity and manual positioning keep the stop element in its outward projecting position to provide assistance; during operation, the wiper arm's movement automatically displaces the stop element inward, maintaining both functions without compromise

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge acts as an intermediary mechanism between the stop element and adapter body, enabling the stop element to transition between providing mounting assistance and being displaced during operation. This intermediary connection allows the stop element to fulfill both roles sequentially

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 design enhances the operational flexibility and effectiveness of the windscreen wiper adapter by allowing the abutment element to be out of the way during blade operation, improving the wiper's ability to follow windshield curvature and maintain efficient water removal.

Implementation Method 1

said at least one element is connected by a hinge to said wall

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHinge: Hinge

Data Source

PatentEP3192712B1Adapter for connecting a wiper blade to a driving arm
Publication Date: 2019.10.30 VALEO SYST DESSUYAGE SAS
  • EP3192712B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3192712B1 patent drawingFigure 4a~4c
  • EP3192712B1 patent drawingFigure 4d~4e

AI summary

Adapter (112) for connecting a wiper blade (10) to a drive arm (26), the adapter comprising two substantially parallel walls (28) connected together by at least one connecting element (30), said walls having first internal lateral faces (28a) between which said at least one connecting element extends, and external lateral faces (28b), said adapter further comprising at least one stop element which is carried by one of said walls and which is at least partially projecting from said external lateral face of that wall, characterized in that said at least one element (150) is movable between a functional stop position and a non-functional position.