Wiper Blade Adhesive Bonding for Uniform Contact Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper blade connection methods, such as welded connections, are costly and prone to quality control issues, especially in mass production, and fail to maintain uniform contact pressure on varying window curvatures.
Innovation Solution
A wiper blade design featuring a gap between the support element and connecting device, filled with a flowable mass that solidifies, forming a secure bond without heating, allowing for even pressure distribution and improved aesthetics by preventing dirt accumulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a welded connection is used to fasten the connecting device to the support element, then the connection strength is improved, but the manufacturing cost and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical welding process with a chemical adhesive bonding process. The adhesive is applied to the connecting element and bonds to the support element through chemical adhesion, eliminating the need for welding equipment, power supply, and complex process control while achieving comparable connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an adhesive as an intermediary substance between the connecting element and support element. This adhesive layer mediates the bonding process, allowing for tolerance compensation and creating a solid bond without requiring direct mechanical or thermal contact between the rigid components.
2Strength
If a welded connection is used to fasten the connecting device to the support element, then the connection strength is improved, but the manufacturing process control requirements and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive bonding process replaces the welding system, eliminating the need for precise temperature control, power management, and complex process parameters. The adhesive can be applied at room temperature or with minimal heating, significantly simplifying the manufacturing process and increasing production speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive can be pre-applied to the connecting element or support element before assembly, allowing for preparation of bonding surfaces in advance. This eliminates the need for on-site welding operations and enables faster assembly operations.
3Stress or pressure
If the support element curvature is increased to maintain contact pressure on curved windows, then the contact pressure distribution is improved, but the fit and appearance on the window surface worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive provides localized compensation for curvature mismatches between the support element and window surface. Rather than requiring the entire support element to be highly curved, the adhesive fills gaps and accommodates local variations in window curvature, maintaining contact pressure where needed while preserving overall shape compatibility.
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
The solution ensures a solid, durable bond that compensates for tolerances and maintains even contact pressure across varying window curvatures, reducing production costs and enhancing the wiper blade's performance and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
A bond is formed in this gap using adhesive mass
Implementation Method 2
a flowable mass that solidifies, forming a secure bond
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a wiper blade and to a method for producing a wiper blade, comprising a support element (12) for receiving a wiper strip (14), to which support element a connecting device (20) is attached, which has a wiper blade-side part (15) having claw-like receptacles (32, 34) surrounding the support element (12) at least in some regions. A gap (42) is provided between the support element (12) and at least one receptacle (32, 34). After the support element (12) is positioned in the receptacles (32, 34) of the connecting device (20), a compound (44) is introduced into the gap (42), said compound hardening in the gap (42).