Windscreen Wiper Control System Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windscreen wiper control systems risk damaging the hood and windscreen due to unintended collisions when the wiper arms are activated from uncertain positions, either during service or when returning to their normal wiping range.
Innovation Solution
A windscreen wiper control system that detects uncertain positions of the wiper arm and returns it to the first position at a reduced speed, specifically within a defined collision risk zone, to minimize impact speed and prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the wiper arm is activated from an uncertain position, then the wiper system can resume operation, but the wiper arm may collide with the hood or windscreen causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs a preliminary detection of the wiper arm position upon activation before resuming normal operation. This preliminary action allows the system to identify uncertain positions and initiate protective measures (reduced speed mode) before collision can occur, thus enabling resumption of productivity while preventing damage
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies a reduced speed mode as a protective cushioning measure when uncertain positions are detected. This beforehand cushioning reduces the kinetic energy of the wiper arm, thereby minimizing potential collision damage to the hood or windscreen while still allowing the wiping function to resume
2Productivity
If the wiper arm returns to the first position at normal speed, then the wiping efficiency is maintained, but the impact force upon collision with the hood increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts the wiper arm speed based on the detected position uncertainty. Instead of maintaining a fixed normal speed, the system transitions to a reduced speed mode when uncertainty is detected, creating a dynamic speed profile that balances wiping efficiency with collision risk mitigation
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the speed parameter of the wiper arm from normal operating speed to reduced speed when uncertain positions are detected. This parameter change reduces the impact force potential while maintaining the ability to resume wiping operations, thus managing the trade-off between productivity and force
Data Source
AI summary
A windscreen wiper control system controls a drive mechanism for at least one windscreen wiper arm to effect a reciprocating movement of the at least one windscreen wiper arm within a wiping range between a first position and a second position. The control system includes a detector that detects, upon activation of the control system, an uncertain position of the windscreen wiper arm within the wiping range but different from the first position. Upon detection of such an uncertain position, the control system returns the windscreen wiper arm to the first position at a predetermined reduced speed, the reduced speed being applied at least in a sub-range of the wiping range in the vicinity of the first position.