Wiper Blade Adapter With Modular Coupling Unit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper blade adapter systems lack flexibility and ease of assembly, particularly for end users with limited technical skills, as they often require tools and are not modular enough to accommodate various standardized wiper arm adapters.
Innovation Solution
A wiper blade adapter system with a coupling unit that includes differently shaped connecting elements, a guide unit for linear movement, and latching elements for secure and tool-free assembly, allowing for modular and flexible use with multiple wiper arm adapter types, featuring a bearing unit for pivotable mounting and safety features to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wiper blade adapter system uses a fixed, single-type connecting element design, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different wiper arm adapter types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling unit is designed with multiple differently shaped connecting elements (first, second, and third connecting elements with distinct geometries) that can interface with various standardized wiper arm adapter types. This multi-functional design allows a single coupling unit to serve multiple adapter compatibility functions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity by integrating several connection capabilities into one unified component rather than requiring separate adapters for each wiper arm type
2Ease of operation
If traditional wiper blade adapter systems require multiple tools and complex assembly steps, then the assembly precision can be ensured, but the ease of operation for end users is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling unit incorporates a guide unit with guide surfaces that automatically guide the connecting elements into proper alignment and engagement positions during assembly. The latching elements with spring bias automatically engage with the connecting elements when brought into contact, eliminating the need for tools or complex assembly procedures. This self-service mechanism allows end users to assemble the wiper blade adapter system simply by bringing components together, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and assembly reliability
3Adaptability or versatility
If a wiper blade adapter system uses a non-modular design, then the device structure is simpler, but the adaptability to different connecting elements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling unit is designed as a modular assembly comprising distinct separable components: multiple differently shaped connecting elements, a guide unit with guide surfaces, and latching elements with spring mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed, manufactured, and assembled, enabling the system to accommodate various connecting element types while maintaining overall system integration. The modular structure resolves the contradiction by organizing complexity into manageable, interchangeable segments rather than requiring a completely redesigned monolithic structure for each adapter type
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a wiper blade adapter system comprising a wiper blade adapter unit (10) and at least two connection elements (12, 14, 16) that have different forms. According to the invention the wiper blade adapter unit (10) comprises a coupling unit (18) that is provided in order to be coupled by an end-user to at least one of the at least two connection elements (12, 14, 16) in an assembly step.