Plug-in Wiper Blade Connection Device for Uniform Pressure Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper blades face challenges in achieving uniform contact pressure distribution on curved vehicle windows due to the curvature of the support element, and the welded connection device is costly and prone to failure under extreme conditions.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in connection device is used instead of a welded connection, allowing for easy assembly and cost-effective production, with options for blind hole, stepped bore, and film hinge joint designs to enhance the connection reliability and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a welded connection device is used to connect the connecting element 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 welded mechanical connection system with a plug-in mechanical connection system. The connecting element is inserted into a receptacle on the support element and secured by a clamping mechanism, eliminating the need for welding processes while maintaining sufficient connection strength for withstanding torques and vibrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the connection parameter from permanent welded joint to reversible plug-in joint. The clamping force and friction between the plug-in body and receptacle are optimized to provide adequate connection strength without requiring welding, thereby simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs.
2Strength
If a welded connection device is used to connect the connecting element to the support element, then the connection strength is improved, but the reliability under extreme conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic clamping mechanism that can adapt to varying loads. The clamping element exerts variable clamping force on the connecting element, allowing the connection to accommodate vibrations and torques while maintaining reliability. The friction-based connection provides damping effects that enhance performance under extreme conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates friction and clamping force as cushioning mechanisms before extreme conditions occur. The pre-applied clamping force creates friction that absorbs and dampens vibrations and shocks, protecting the connection from failure under extreme loads and vibrations.
3Ease of manufacture
If a plug-in connection device is used instead of welded connection, then the ease of manufacture and assembly are improved, but the connection strength may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces welding with a mechanically secured plug-in system. The clamping mechanism applies sufficient normal force to create friction that resists shear and tensile loads, providing adequate connection strength while enabling simple assembly and disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes parameters such as clamping force, friction coefficient, and contact area between the plug-in body and receptacle to achieve the required connection strength. By adjusting these parameters, the plug-in connection can match or exceed the strength of welded connections while maintaining ease of manufacture.
4Shape
If the plug-in receptacle is designed as a blind hole, then the aesthetics are improved, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the receptacle into a blind hole portion for aesthetic purposes and a separate clamping mechanism portion for assembly. The clamping element is inserted through a small access opening, engages the connecting element, and secures it within the blind hole, achieving both aesthetic appearance and functional assembly without requiring complex external structures.
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 plug-in connection device ensures reliable and cost-effective assembly, improves aesthetics, and enhances the connection strength by allowing for expansion and latching, addressing the issues of uniform pressure distribution and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The connection can be improved if the plug-in bodies are expanded by means of a heat treatment after they have been inserted into the plug-in receptacles.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing a wiper blade, and to a wiper blade for wiping windows, in particular motor vehicle windows, having a supporting element (12) for holding a wiper strip (14) to which a connection apparatus (20) is attached, said connection apparatus having a wiper-blade-side part (15) with claw-like holders (34, 36) which engage around the supporting element (12) at least in regions. The invention proposes that the holders (34, 36) are of two-part design, having a first and a second holder part, wherein the first holder part has at least one plug receptacle and the second holder part has at least one plug body which is inserted into the plug receptacle and attached during assembly of the wiper blade