Electronic Self-Locking for Windshield Wiper Position Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern windshield wiper systems with reversing electric motors face challenges in maintaining adequate self-locking when the drive is in a non-operating state, particularly in direct wiper drives without mechanical self-locking mechanisms, which can lead to the wiper moving into the wiping area due to external influences like headwind or misuse.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of electronic self-locking using a control means that monitors position sensor signals to return the wiper to a setpoint position when the drive is non-operating, utilizing an internally wakeable electronics system that cyclically wakes up to maintain self-locking without mechanical components, preserving battery power and ensuring effective self-locking in all wiper systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical self-locking measures (helical springs, blocking elements) are used in direct wiper drives, then self-locking reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical self-locking measures (helical springs, blocking elements) with an electronic control system that uses position sensor signals and a microcontroller to monitor wiper position and activate the motor when deviation is detected, thereby eliminating complex mechanical components while maintaining self-locking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the wiper to self-correct its position automatically by monitoring its own position through sensor signals and activating the motor when deviation from the setpoint position is detected, eliminating the need for continuous mechanical locking mechanisms
2Reliability
If the control means continuously monitors wiper position, then self-locking reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control means is designed to cyclically wake up from a low-power standby state at predetermined time intervals to monitor position sensor signals and check for wiper position deviation, then return to standby mode, thereby reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring while maintaining self-locking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The internally wakeable design allows the system to autonomously manage its own power consumption by cycling between active monitoring and low-power standby states without external intervention, optimizing the balance between reliability and energy efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
In order to ensure, when the drive (1) is in a non-operating state, a self-locking that counters a change in position of the wiper (5), an electronically implemented self-locking is provided. To this end, the controller (S) of the wiper system monitors the wiper (5) during the non-operating state of the drive (1) by evaluating the position sensor signals for a change in position and, in response to the position monitoring, activates the drive (1) in order to return the wiper (5) into a set position (U, P).