Wiper Blade Connecting Device Adapter for Universal Arm Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper blade connection devices lack versatility in accommodating different wiper arm designs, such as those with hook-shaped ends, lateral bearing pins, and varying orientations, leading to limited compatibility and securement options.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device featuring an adapter with a button connected via a spring tongue, laterally projecting guide rails, and locking cams, allowing for secure attachment to wiper arms with different connection principles (toplock and sidelock) using the same components, including a plastic connection part with a bearing bolt and adapter cap for enhanced compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional connection device with fixed structure is used, then the manufacturing and assembly process is simple, but the adaptability to different wiper arm designs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is designed with a universal adapter that can accommodate multiple wiper arm designs (hook-shaped ends, lateral bearing pins, toplock principle, sidelock principle) through a single standardized interface, enabling one connection device to serve multiple functions across different wiper arm configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is divided into separate functional components including the adapter, bearing element, and connection elements, allowing each segment to be optimized for specific attachment methods while maintaining overall compatibility with various wiper arm designs
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized connection devices are used for different wiper arm types, then the adaptability to specific designs is high, but the device complexity and variety of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single standardized adapter design serves as a universal interface that can connect to various wiper arm types through different connection principles (toplock, sidelock), eliminating the need for multiple specialized connection devices and reducing component variety while maintaining broad compatibility
3Device complexity
If a standardized connection interface is used for all wiper arms, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the adaptability to specific wiper arm orientations and configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device incorporates a pivotable bearing element that allows dynamic adjustment and articulation to accommodate different wiper arm orientations and configurations, enabling the standardized interface to adapt to various mounting positions and angles while maintaining structural simplicity
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 versatile attachment of wiper blades to various wiper arm designs, ensuring reliable operation and easy assembly while maintaining a visually appealing design, with the ability to connect wiper arms with different orientations and configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a button (100) at its drive-side end above the spring clip, which is connected to the adapter via a spring tongue
Implementation Method 2
locking cams, allowing for secure attachment to wiper arms with different connection principles
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting device (10) for the articulated connection of a wiper blade (38) to a wiper arm (12, 14, 16, 18), wherein the connecting device (10) comprises a connecting element (46, 48, 186) rigidly connected to a carrier element (44) of the wiper blade (38), said connecting element comprising a base element (48) and a connecting part (46, 186) having a joint carrier (72, 194) extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein said joint carrier laterally guides an adapter (82, 200) on the insides of the lateral walls (84) thereof and carries a transversely directed joint (70). The joint protrudes slightly on each side of the joint carrier (72, 194), on which the adapter (82, 200) is pivotally mounted, wherein said adapter can be detachably fastened to the free end of the wiper arm (12, 14, 16, 18) or to a connecting element (20, 22, 24, 26) rigidly connected thereto and comprises a spring clip (104) at the end thereof facing the drive, said spring clip on the lateral surfaces thereof having detent cams (106) which protrude facing outward and comprise contact surfaces (110) facing the free end which form acute angles with the carrier element (44). The lateral walls (84) have steps (118) on the free end which form a recess (120) with a web (121, 206). According to the invention, the adapter (82, 200) comprises a button (100) on the end of the drive side thereof above the spring clip (104), wherein said button is connected via a spring tongue (98) to the adapter (82, 200) and protrudes beyond the upper edges of the lateral walls (84). The lateral walls (84) at the lower edges thereof comprise a protruding guide rail (90), on which a stop (92) is provided.