Windscreen Wiper Connecting Device Ultrasonic Welding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing windscreen wiper devices require additional tools and an extra manufacturing step due to the need for precisely shaped recesses in the longitudinal strips for secure attachment of the connecting device, which complicates the manufacturing process.
Innovation Solution
The connecting device features engaging members welded to the longitudinal strips to provide a durable and solid connection, using ultrasonic welding with thermoplastic materials, and includes cylindrical protrusions or a U-shaped cross-section for low-force bearing surfaces, allowing for secure attachment without additional cutting steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If precisely shaped recesses are cut in longitudinal strips for secure attachment of the connecting device, then the connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases due to additional tools and cutting steps
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the attachment function from the longitudinal strips themselves and transfers it to separate engaging members. These engaging members are clamped around the strips and then welded to the connecting device, separating the attachment function from the structural function of the strips. This eliminates the need for complex recesses in the strips while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging members act as intermediary elements between the longitudinal strips and the connecting device. Instead of directly attaching the connecting device to the strips through complex recesses, the engaging members serve as mediators that are clamped around the strips and then welded to the connecting device, simplifying the manufacturing process.
2Ease of manufacture
If engaging members are welded to longitudinal strips instead of using recesses, then the manufacturing process is simplified by eliminating additional cutting steps, but the connection strength must be maintained to withstand shearing forces
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical recess-based attachment system with a welding-based attachment system. Instead of relying on precisely fitted recesses and mechanical interlocking, the engaging members are welded directly to the connecting device, substituting mechanical fit with metallurgical bonding to achieve both simplified manufacturing and maintained strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution employs composite construction where engaging members made of one material are welded to longitudinal strips made of different material. This composite approach allows optimization of each component for its specific function while achieving strong connections through welding, balancing ease of manufacture with connection strength.
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
This solution enables a robust and tool-free assembly of the windscreen wiper device, reducing manufacturing complexity and enhancing its ability to withstand shearing forces and torques, while maintaining a secure pivot connection for the oscillating wiper arm.
Implementation Method 1
the engaging members are welded to said longitudinal sides through an ultrasonic welding operation
Data Source
AI summary
A windscreen wiper device (1) comprising an elastic, elongated carrier element, as well as an elongated wiper blade (2) of a flexible material, which can be placed in abutment with a windscreen to be wiped, which wiper blade (2) includes opposing longitudinal grooves (3) on its longitudinal sides, in which grooves (3) spaced-apart longitudinal strips (4) of the carrier element are disposed, wherein neighboring ends of said longitudinal strips (4) are interconnected by a respective connecting piece (6), which windscreen wiper device (1) comprises a connecting device (7) for an oscillating wiper arm (8), wherein said oscillating arm (8) is pivotally connected to said connecting device (7) about a pivot axis near one end, a special feature of which is that said connecting device (7) comprises engaging members (9) being welded to longitudinal sides (10) of said longitudinal strips (4) that face away from each other in such a manner as to withstand shearing forces in a direction along said longitudinal strips (4).