Windshield Wiper Drive Protective Cap Radial Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing windscreen wiper devices face issues with the sealing connection of the protective cap to the output shaft being impaired due to loads and dynamic forces, especially in reverse positions, which can lead to a negative effect on the sealing connection.
Innovation Solution
The protective cap is radially supported via a support sleeve that bridges the radial gap between the output shaft and the protective cap, with the support sleeve being fixed axially by an annular collar and a locking shoulder, allowing forces to be absorbed without affecting the sealing connection, and a ring seal is used for the sealing connection supported by an annular holding element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the protective cap is directly connected to the output shaft without radial support, then the structure is simple, but the sealing connection is impaired due to loads and dynamic forces
Solution Approach 1:
A support sleeve is introduced as an intermediary component between the protective cap and the output shaft. The support sleeve bridges the radial gap and provides radial support to the protective cap, preventing deformation under loads while maintaining the sealing connection to the output shaft.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is segmented into distinct functional components: the protective cap for sealing, the support sleeve for radial support, and the annular collar for axial fixation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, resolving the conflict between structural simplicity and sealing reliability.
2Strength
If the protective cap is rigidly fixed to prevent deformation, then structural strength is improved, but the sealing connection is compromised due to dynamic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cap is designed with differentiated local properties: the region where it penetrates the cover is supported by the support sleeve to prevent deformation under external loads, while the sealing region maintains flexibility to accommodate dynamic forces during wiper operation, ensuring both strength and sealing reliability.
3Reliability
If radial support is provided to the protective cap, then sealing connection is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support sleeve is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides radial support to the protective cap, bridges the radial gap between the cap and output shaft, and is axially fixed by the annular collar. This merging of functions minimizes the number of additional components needed, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining sealing reliability.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A windshield wiper drive (1) is provided for the output shaft (4) with a protective cap (15) across a longitudinal region. The protective cap (15) is supported between the terminal supports thereof against the drive shaft (4) and the drive housing (2) of the windshield wiper drive (1) in relation to the output shaft (4) via a supporting bearing (20).