Wiper Coupler Assembly with Universal Base and Interchangeable Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wiper assemblies are limited to specific types of wiper arm styles, requiring a coupler that can operatively engage multiple attachment members and facilitate easy attachment and detachment for versatility and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A coupler assembly with a base and releasable couplers that include projections, tabs, and a release lever, allowing connection to various wiper arm attachment members and enabling easy installation and removal, along with self-aligning and locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a coupler is designed for a single type of wiper arm style, then the connection is simple and reliable, but the adaptability to different wiper arm styles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly is designed with a base that can accommodate multiple types of couplers (first coupler, second coupler, third coupler) to engage different attachment member styles (bayonet-style, pin-type, hook-type). This multi-functional design allows a single base structure to serve multiple wiper arm styles, achieving universality without requiring multiple separate coupling systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler assembly is segmented into a base portion and multiple interchangeable coupler portions. The base remains fixed while different couplers can be attached or removed based on the required wiper arm style. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different styles without redesigning the entire coupling mechanism.
2Ease of manufacture
If the coupler structure is simplified for easy manufacturing, then the manufacturing cost decreases, but the ability to securely engage different attachment members is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed as a universal platform that can engage multiple attachment member types through standardized engagement features. The base includes recesses, tabs, and mounting structures that work with various coupler types, allowing reliable engagement across different styles while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that is easy to manufacture.
3Ease of operation
If the wiper assembly uses a fixed coupler design, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the ease of replacement and adaptability to different styles is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler assembly incorporates a release lever that enables dynamic switching between engaged and disengaged states. The release lever works with tabs and recesses to allow quick attachment and detachment of couplers without requiring tools or complex procedures. This dynamic feature facilitates easy replacement while maintaining structural integrity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The separable design between the base and couplers allows the wiper assembly to be easily replaced by removing the coupler from the base. This segmentation enables quick changes without affecting the base structure or the wiper blade itself, simplifying the replacement process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple coupler types are integrated into one assembly, then the versatility increases, but the device complexity and difficulty of manufacture increase
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly is divided into a base component and separate coupler components that can be manufactured independently using standard manufacturing processes. The base includes standardized features (recesses, tabs, mounting holes) that are easy to produce, while the couplers are designed to mate with these features. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The base is designed as a universal platform with standardized engagement features that work with multiple coupler types. By concentrating the adaptability requirements in the base design rather than in each individual coupler, the manufacturing complexity is reduced while maintaining compatibility with multiple attachment member styles.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a wiper assembly and a coupler assembly for use in releasably attaching the wiper assembly to a plurality of different attachment member for wiper arms. The coupler assembly includes a base mounted to structure of the wiper assembly and at least one coupler releasably attached to the base to allow connection to the attachment members. The coupler assembly also includes a release lever cooperating with the base and the at least one coupler for releasing the at least one coupler from the base to facilitate releasable attachment between a wiper assembly and the attachment members of the wiper arms.