Faired Wiper Blade Hinge Geometry for Low-Stress End Cap Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of wiper end caps on adapter elements requires substantial force and deformation, which can lead to breakage due to concentrated mechanical stresses at the joint, especially in hybrid wipers with articulated mounting.
Innovation Solution
The adapter element features a punctiform narrowing and inclined mounting surfaces that facilitate easy articulation of the end cap, reducing the necessary force and deformation during assembly, and includes guide surfaces to align the components smoothly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the end cap is deformed to mount it in articulation on the adapter element, then the articulation can be achieved, but the end cap may break due to concentrated mechanical stresses
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter element incorporates a localized narrowing (reduced cross-section) at the specific location where the end cap articulates. This local modification concentrates the deformation in a controlled manner, reducing stress on the end cap while maintaining articulation functionality. The narrowing acts as a stress-relief feature that prevents breakage during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter element's geometry is modified by introducing a narrowing that changes the cross-sectional parameters at the articulation point. This parameter change allows the adapter to deform more easily during mounting, reducing the force required and preventing end cap breakage, while still providing sufficient rigidity in other areas.
2Ease of manufacture
If a substantial force is applied to the end cap during assembly, then the articulation can be mounted, but the risk of breakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The narrowing in the adapter element creates a localized soft spot that deforms preferentially during assembly. This local quality change allows the articulation to be mounted with reduced force, eliminating the need for substantial force application and thereby preventing end cap breakage while maintaining assembly ease.
3Ease of operation
If the sides of the end cap are moved apart to position articulation elements, then the articulation can be established, but mechanical stresses concentrate at the join between flanks
Solution Approach 1:
The narrowing in the adapter element provides a localized region that accommodates the movement of end cap sides apart. This local modification absorbs the stress that would otherwise concentrate at the critical join between the end cap flanks, allowing articulation positioning while protecting the structural integrity of the end cap.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a windscreen wiper blade for a motor vehicle. The wiper blade includes a fairing, with a central mounting, at least one end cap, and at least one adapter element attached to the central mounting. The adapter element includes a central core and two legs extending from opposite edges of the central core, one of the at least one end cap(s) being pivotally hinged to the adapter element. The adapter element having a narrowed portion in at least one of the two legs, located at the hinge between the end cap and the adapter element and extending from at least one hinge hole to the central core of the adapter element.