Windscreen Wiper Connection Platform Elastic Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The lack of standardization in connection means for flat wiper blades results in increased production and distribution costs, limiting their availability for all vehicle ranges, as users cannot easily adapt these blades to vehicles designed for classic wiper systems due to the complexity of assembly and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A connection platform with reversible elastic deformation locking means, featuring fork-shaped elastic arms that allow the connector to be locked in a single movement perpendicular to the assembly face, simplifying the assembly process by reducing the number of required movements from two to one.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a connection platform with reversible elastic deformation locking means is used, then the ease of operation is improved by reducing assembly to a single movement, but the device complexity increases due to the elastic arms and forks
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic arms automatically perform the locking function when the connector is inserted. The reversible elastic deformation causes the arms to engage with the connector's locking surfaces passively during insertion, eliminating the need for separate locking actions or complex manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means utilize dynamic elastic deformation of the arms rather than static mechanical interlocking. The arms can deform elastically during insertion and then maintain a locked position through their elastic properties, allowing the system to transition between states dynamically.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standardized connection means are implemented across all vehicle types, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure compatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic arms can deform within specific parameter ranges to accommodate variations in connector positioning and alignment. This elastic compliance allows the connection platform to adapt to different vehicle types and connector variations without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is segmented into multiple elastic arms that can independently deform and engage with the connector. This segmentation allows each arm to compensate for local variations in positioning while maintaining overall connection integrity across different vehicle applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of connectors are produced to accommodate different actuating arms, then the adaptability is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to production costs
Solution Approach 1:
The connection platform is designed with universal adaptability through its elastic arms and forks that can accommodate multiple types of connectors and actuating arms. A single platform design serves multiple functions by working with hook arms, arms with lateral pivot axes, arms with longitudinal clipping, and other connector types without requiring separate specialized platforms for each.
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 significantly simplifies the assembly process for users, reducing the complexity and cost associated with producing and distributing flat wiper blades, making them more adaptable to various vehicle types.
Implementation Method 1
locking means by reversible elastic deformation, capable of locking the connector in a direction of insertion of said connector into the platform substantially perpendicular to said assembly face
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4a
Figure 4b~4c
AI summary
Connection platform (1) for a windscreen wiper blade of a motor vehicle, said platform being intended to receive, on an assembly face, a connector (5) used for coupling to an actuating arm (10). According to the invention, said platform comprises means (21, 23, 27, 29) for reversible locking by elastic deformation that are designed to lock the connector (5) in a direction (25) in which said connector is inserted into the platform (1) substantially perpendicular to said assembly face. Application to motor vehicle wiper systems.