Vehicle Wiper Control via Intelligent Multi-Function Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical wiper and washer control systems in vehicles are inefficient due to limited features, noise from direct drive mechanisms, and high costs resulting from separate input switches and body control modules, with the wiper or washer often stopping mid-operation when the ignition is turned off, and lacking adaptive control based on external environments or user requirements.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent multi-function module (IMFM) that includes a temperature sensor and wireless receiver to control the wiper and washer based on sensed temperature, allowing for adaptive operation in service and driver modes, preventing washer fluid ejection in cold weather and enabling wireless control, thus optimizing wiper and washer functionality according to user needs and environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a typical wiper and washer control apparatus uses a simple switch-driven system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates because the wiper or washer may stop in the middle of operation when the ignition is turned off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical switch-driven control system with an intelligent multi-function module (IMFM) that uses electronic control and temperature sensing. The IMFM continuously monitors temperature and automatically controls the washer pump operation, eliminating the reliability issues of switch-based systems where operations could stop mid-cycle when ignition is turned off.
Solution Approach 2:
The IMFM enables the washer system to automatically monitor its own operating conditions through temperature sensing and self-regulate the washer pump operation. The system serves itself by detecting temperature changes and autonomously controlling fluid ejection without requiring manual switch intervention, ensuring continuous and reliable operation.
2Device complexity
If the washer is controlled without temperature sensing, then the device complexity is reduced, but the object-affected harmful factors increase because washer fluid may be ejected and frozen in cold weather
Solution Approach 1:
The IMFM performs preliminary temperature monitoring and assessment before activating the washer pump. By continuously sensing the temperature in advance, the system determines whether conditions are suitable for washer fluid ejection, preventing harmful freezing before it occurs. This proactive control eliminates the risk of fluid freezing that would occur in simple switch-driven systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control through the temperature sensor that continuously monitors environmental conditions and feeds this information to the IMFM. Based on this feedback, the IMFM automatically adjusts washer pump operation, preventing fluid ejection when temperatures are too low for safe operation, thus eliminating the freezing hazard.
3Ease of operation
If separate input switches and body control modules are used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to higher system cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of separate input switches and body control modules into a single integrated intelligent multi-function module (IMFM). This consolidation maintains full control functionality while eliminating redundant components, thereby reducing system cost without sacrificing ease of operation. The IMFM combines temperature sensing, control logic, and actuation control in one unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The IMFM is designed as a universal control module that performs multiple functions: temperature sensing, washer pump control, and integration with existing vehicle systems. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated switches and control modules, reducing overall system cost while maintaining comprehensive control capabilities.
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 IMFM ensures efficient and adaptive control of wipers and washers, preventing washer fluid freezing and maintaining wiper functionality even when the ignition is off, enhancing user convenience and reducing noise and cost inefficiencies by allowing temperature-dependent operation and wireless control.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor to sense a temperature with respect to the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an apparatus and a method for controlling a wiper and washer. An apparatus for controlling a wiper and washer, includes a wiper to wipe a windshield of a vehicle, a washer to eject washer fluid to the windshield of the vehicle, and an intelligent multi-function module (IMFM) to utilize a temperature sensing function of the vehicle according to a selected intelligent multi-function mode, and control the wiper and washer according to a sensed temperature with respect to the vehicle.