Windscreen Wiper Connecting Device Snap-Fit Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windscreen wiper devices experience issues with the connecting device and oscillating arm disconnecting due to high forces, causing the wiper blade to loosen during use.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with a U-shaped or rectangular cross-section that snaps onto the oscillating arm using a protrusion and hole mechanism, combined with a hingeable push button for secure attachment and detachment, ensuring a robust and reliable connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional connecting device is used to connect the wiper blade to the oscillating arm, then the connection can be established, but high forces during use cause the connection to fail and the wiper blade to loosen
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device incorporates a resilient element that can elastically deform to accommodate dynamic forces during wiper operation. The resilient element absorbs and dissipates the high forces exerted on the connection, preventing connection failure while maintaining reliable attachment between the wiper blade and oscillating arm throughout the wiping cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism uses a resilient element whose mechanical properties (elasticity, compliance) change to adapt to the varying force conditions during operation. The resilient element's ability to deform and recover allows the connection to handle both low-force and high-force states, transforming the connection from a rigid, force-sensitive joint to a dynamic, force-absorbing assembly.
2Reliability
If the connecting device uses multiple parts to ensure secure connection, then connection reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device integrates multiple functions into a single unified component structure. The resilient element is incorporated directly into the connecting device housing, eliminating the need for separate retention mechanisms, clips, or fasteners. This merging of the resilient element with the connecting device structure achieves reliable force absorption and connection maintenance while minimizing the total number of parts.
3Ease of operation
If the connecting device is designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, then ease of operation improves, but connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient element is pre-loaded or pre-positioned within the connecting device during manufacturing, so that when the oscillating arm is inserted, the connection is automatically secured with appropriate force. The resilient element's predetermined elastic properties ensure that assembly requires minimal effort (simple insertion) while the pre-configured mechanical properties guarantee sufficient connection strength to withstand operational forces.
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 provides a secure and reliable connection between the connecting device and oscillating arm, preventing the wiper blade from loosening and minimizing splashback of rainwater during operation.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient element, in order to absorb forces which are exerted on the connection between the connecting device and the oscillating arm
Implementation Method 2
the second part has an at least substantially U-shaped cross-section at the location of its connection to said first part, wherein each leg of said U-shaped cross-section is allowed to bend outwardly upon insertion of the oscillating arm into said second part for connecting said first and second parts together through a snapping operation
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5
AI summary
A windscreen wiper device (1) comprising a wiper blade (2), which includes at least one groove (3), in which a longitudinal strip (4) is disposed, which windscreen wiper device (1) comprises a connecting device (6) for an oscillating arm (7), wherein said connecting device (6) comprises at least two parts (8, 9) provided with protrusion/hole means arranged for detachably connecting said parts (8, 9) together through a snapping operation, wherein the first part (8) is retained onto the wiper blade (2) and wherein the second part (9) comprises a channel arranged for inserting said oscillating arm (7) therein.