Wiper Blade Fluid Connection with Integrated Heating Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing windshield wiper systems obscure the view by applying cleaning fluid, which is not immediately wiped away, causing visibility issues during the wiping process.
Innovation Solution
A fluid connection for the wiper blade with a heating element in a lumen and a tubular sealing means that allows direct application of cleaning fluid onto the windshield, reducing obstruction and enabling immediate removal by the wiper blade, while the heating element prevents freezing and enhances flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If cleaning fluid is applied to the windshield by a spray nozzle spaced apart from the wiper blade, then the windshield can be moistened for cleaning, but the cleaning fluid obscures the view through the windshield until wiped away
Solution Approach 1:
The spray nozzle is integrated into the wiper blade assembly, changing the spatial dimension of fluid application from a distant fixed position to a position co-located with the wiping element. This dimensional change enables simultaneous application and removal of fluid, eliminating the visibility obstruction period.
Solution Approach 2:
The spray nozzle and wiper blade are merged into a single integrated assembly. The nozzle is positioned upstream of the wiper lip, combining the fluid application function with the wiping function in one unit, allowing the fluid to be applied and immediately removed by the same assembly.
2Temperature
If a heating element is arranged in a lumen to prevent cleaning fluid from freezing, then the fluid can be protected in cold conditions, but the opening of the lumen requires protection against fluid entry and exit
Solution Approach 1:
A tubular sealing means is introduced as an intermediary element between the external environment and the lumen opening. This sealing tube surrounds the heating element and closes the opening, preventing cleaning fluid from entering or escaping while allowing the heating element to remain in place and functional.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating element is nested within the lumen, and the tubular sealing means is nested over the lumen opening, creating a nested structure where the sealing tube protects the heating element and lumen opening. This nested arrangement allows the heating element to be protected while remaining accessible for electrical connections.
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 reduces the time the windshield is obscured by cleaning fluid, improves visibility, and ensures the wiper blade remains flexible and functional during operation by applying the fluid directly upstream of the wiper lip and using a heating element connected to a voltage source for effective fluid management.
Implementation Method 1
The heating means serves to prevent the cleaning fluid from freezing. The heating means additionally heats the wiper blade and makes it flexible for the wiping process.
Implementation Method 2
a tubular sealing means is arranged on the opening and closes the opening in a fluid-tight manner
Data Source
AI summary
Fluid connection (12) for a wiper blade (14) of a windshield wiping system, wherein a heating element (16) is arranged in a lumen (18) and protrudes from an opening (18) of the lumen (18), wherein a tubular sealing means (10) is able to be arranged on the opening (20) and closes the opening (20) in a fluid-tight manner and fixes the heating means (16).