Elastic Locking Element for Wiper Blade Adapter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices for flat wiper blades are complex and costly due to multiple parts, with removable locking members that reduce reliability, and are not compatible with standard hook-type wiper arms, leading to potential disengagement issues during operation.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device with a connector and adapter that allows elastic deformation of locking elements between active and passive positions, enabling automatic locking and unlocking without additional parts, and is compatible with various wiper blade types and arm sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking means with removable holding members are used to prevent disengagement, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the removable holding member (flap, cover, or tab) from the locking means, retaining only the essential elastically deformable locking elements. This extraction eliminates the complexity and reliability issues associated with removable components while maintaining the core locking function through the elastic deformation mechanism alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to automatically engage and disengage through elastic deformation without requiring additional holding members. The system serves itself by using the inherent elasticity of the locking elements to provide both locking and unlocking functions, eliminating the need for separate removable components.
2Reliability
If multiple parts are used in fixing devices, then locking reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (locking elements and holding members) into a single integrated adapter assembly. The elastically deformable locking elements are directly formed as part of the adapter structure, eliminating the need for separate holding members and reducing manufacturing steps, assembly operations, and overall cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements serve multiple functions: they provide locking action when deformed, maintain engagement through elastic recovery, and enable automatic unlocking when deformed in the opposite direction. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated holding members, reducing part count and manufacturing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If elastic deformation is allowed for mounting flexibility, then ease of operation is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are designed with controlled elastic deformation capabilities that allow dynamic adjustment during mounting and operation. The elements can deform to accommodate positioning variations and then recover to maintain stable locking, providing both operational flexibility and structural stability through their elastic properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in the physical state of the locking elements (elastic deformation) to enable mounting operations while maintaining structural integrity. The material properties and geometric design are optimized to allow temporary deformation during assembly that automatically returns to the original stable configuration during operation.
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 simplifies assembly and operation, enhances reliability, and reduces costs by eliminating the need for extra parts, while ensuring secure attachment and detachment of wiper blades to wiper arms.
Implementation Method 1
at least one locking element capable of elastically deforming between an active position in which it locks the arm in the fixing position, and a passive position in which it allows the unlocking of the arm
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device 1 for attaching a windshield wiper blade 100 to an arm 200, comprising a connector 10 intended to be attached to the blade 100, as well as an adapter 40 intended to be coupled on the one hand to the arm 200 and on the other hand to the connector 10, the adapter 40 in a mobile manner comprising at least one locking element 41, 42 capable of elastically deforming between an active position and a passive position. The invention is remarkable in that the connector 10 comprises means for holding each locking element 41, 42 in active position when the adapter 40 is in an operating position, and in that for each locking element 41, 42, the connector 10 comprises an undercut enabling the elastic deformation of said locking element 41, 42 when the adapter 40 is in an assembly position.