Universal Windshield Wiper Connector for Multi-Arm Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield wiper connectors are expensive and complex, requiring multiple configurations to accommodate various wiper arm types, leading to increased manufacturing and inventory costs and complexity in the replacement market.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece, low-cost windshield wiper connector with a rivet clip, elevated plateau, pin cutout, and pivotable cover that can securely attach to a wide variety of wiper arms, including both pin-type and slot-type arms, reducing the need for multiple inventory parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wiper blade configurations are used to accommodate all existing wiper arms, then compatibility with various wiper arm types is improved, but device complexity and inventory costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with multiple functional features that allow it to accommodate different wiper arm types (hook-type, pin-type, slot-type) through a single universal design. The connector includes a rivet clip for securing to the wiper blade, an elevated plateau with pin cutout for pin-type arms, and slot openings for hook-type and slot-type arms, enabling one connector to perform multiple attachment functions
2Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are designed to work with different wiper arm types, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost and structure complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple attachment features that would traditionally require separate connectors are merged into a single integrated connector structure. The rivet clip, elevated plateau, pin cutout, and slot openings are combined in one piece that can be molded as a single component, reducing the need for multiple separate parts and assembly steps
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates multiple attachment mechanisms (rivet clip for blade attachment, pin cutout for pin-type arms, slot openings for hook and slot-type arms) within a single universal component, allowing it to interface with various wiper arm types without requiring multiple specialized connectors
3Quantity of substance
If a single connector design is used for multiple wiper arm types, then inventory costs are reduced, but the connector must accommodate diverse locking mechanisms which increases design complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed as a universal attachment component that can interface with multiple wiper arm types (hook-type, pin-type, slot-type) through integrated features including rivet clip, elevated plateau with pin cutout, and slot openings, allowing a single connector design to replace multiple specialized connectors in inventory
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into distinct functional zones: the rivet clip portion for securing to the wiper blade, the elevated plateau with pin cutout for pin-type arm engagement, and the slot openings for hook-type and slot-type arm attachment. This segmentation allows each feature to perform its specific function while being part of a unified connector structure
Data Source
AI summary
A windshield wiper connector is disclosed for connecting a variety of wiper arms with a wiper blade. The connector may include a pivotable cover. The connector may also include a pin passage for receiving a pin-type wiper arm as well as a gaps in the connector positioned around an elevated plateau for receiving a slot-type wiper arm.