Windscreen Wiper Connecting Assembly Sliding Lock Mechanism

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing windscreen wiper systems require a large number of constructional parts to disconnect the connecting interface from the wiper blade's connecting device, complicating the assembly process.

Innovation Solution

A wiper blade assembly with a sliding element that moves between locking and separation positions, utilizing interlocking parts with a resilient member to securely connect and disconnect the connecting interface from the wiper blade's connecting device without additional parts, allowing for a simpler construction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional connecting assemblies are used to disconnect the connecting interface from the wiper blade's connecting device, then reliable connection is achieved, but the number of constructional parts increases and assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the connecting device and connecting interface into a single integrated assembly. The connecting device is formed as one piece with the wiper blade, and the connecting interface is directly integrated with the connecting device, eliminating the need for separate constructional parts. This merging reduces assembly complexity while maintaining reliable connection through the unified structural design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If multiple constructional parts are used to achieve disconnection functionality, then separation capability is achieved, but the quantity of parts increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisconnection capabilityVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service disconnection mechanism where the connecting interface automatically disconnects from the connecting device when the wiper blade is removed from the wiper arm. The spring element and cam surface combination creates an automatic release mechanism that requires no additional parts or manual disconnection steps, reducing the number of parts while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If a simple connecting mechanism is used, then the number of parts is reduced, but the secure connection during operation may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of partsVSAvoidconnection security
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a cam surface with a curved profile that works with the spring element to create a secure locking mechanism. The curved cam surface gradually engages and disengages the connecting interface, providing a secure connection during operation while enabling smooth automatic release. This geometric solution maintains connection security without requiring additional complex parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates a spring element that provides dynamic engagement and disengagement forces. The spring maintains constant pressure on the cam surface, ensuring secure connection during wiper operation while automatically releasing when the wiper blade is removed. This dynamic mechanism provides reliable connection security with minimal parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 reliable and efficient disconnection of the connecting interface from the wiper blade's connecting device upon unlocking, reducing the complexity and number of parts required in the assembly, while maintaining a secure connection during operation.

Implementation Method 1

at least one of said interlocking parts comprising a resilient member which is shaped for being pushed by a protrusion of the sliding element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3124336B1Connecting assembly for a windscreen wiper blade
Publication Date: 2018.09.12 VALEO SYST DESSUYAGE SAS
  • EP3124336B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3124336B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP3124336B1 patent drawingFigure 2c

AI summary

Assembly for producing a wiping system, comprising: a terminal part of a wiper arm; a connecting device of a wiper blade which is releasably connectable to the terminal part; a sliding element movably mounted on the terminal part and movable between a first position for locking the connecting device of the wiper blade on the terminal part, and a second position enabling the terminal part and the connecting device to be separated; and a connecting interface which is releasably connectable to the connecting device of the wiper blade and provided for interfacing a liquid supply tube and/or an electrical cable with the connecting device. The connecting interface and the connecting device are together provided with interlocking parts for securing the releasable connection. A resilient member is provided, shaped for being pushed by a protrusion of the sliding element to disengage the connecting interface from the connecting device.