Wiper Blade Adapter Backup Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield wiper systems face issues with the risk of disengagement of wiper blades due to failure of locking pins, leading to potential separation of the arm and blade, which compromises the reliability and safety of the system.
Innovation Solution
A device with a connection adapter that includes holding and securing means, which can maintain the wiper blade in place even if the primary locking means fail, utilizing activation mechanisms to ensure the blade remains secured through cooperation with the arm's head, allowing for discreet and unobstructive operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flexible locking pins are used to secure the adapter on the arm, then the blade can be locked in position during normal operation, but the blade may disengage and separate from the arm if the locking pins fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a backup securing mechanism (second retaining element) that is pre-configured to engage with a corresponding feature on the arm head. This backup mechanism remains inactive during normal operation but automatically activates to prevent blade disengagement if the primary locking pins fail, thus providing beforehand cushioning against potential failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is segmented into multiple independent retention mechanisms: primary flexible locking pins for normal operation and a secondary backup securing mechanism for failure scenarios. This segmentation allows each mechanism to perform its specific function without interfering with the others, improving overall reliability while maintaining manageable complexity.
2Reliability
If securing means are made bulky to ensure blade retention, then reliability improves, but the connection area becomes obstructed and inaccessible for hydraulic connections
Solution Approach 1:
The backup securing mechanism is designed to engage in a different spatial dimension or plane than the primary locking pins. The second retaining element cooperates with a feature on the arm head that is positioned to not interfere with the lower passage area, thus maintaining accessibility for hydraulic connections while providing secure retention in a different dimensional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanisms are designed with localized engagement features that concentrate the retention function in specific areas. The backup securing means engages locally with the arm head in a position that does not obstruct the lower passage, allowing different parts of the connection device to have different functional qualities - retention in one area, accessibility in another.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for attaching a wiper blade (1) to a drive arm (3) of a wiping system, said device comprising a connection adapter (9) for a connector (8) of said wiper blade (1) to said arm (3), said adapter (9) comprising at least one retaining means (21) in a nominal locking position on the arm (3), said adapter (9) further comprising at least one locking means (24) for retaining the arm (3) in the nominal locking position in the event of failure of the retaining means (21). The invention also relates to a wiping system arm (3) intended to be connected to a wiper blade (1) of said wiping system by such a device, an assembly of a wiper blade (1) and such a device, and furthermore, a wiping system comprising such a fastening device.