Windshield Wiper Fluid Dispensing via Integrated Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windshield wiper systems fail to dispense washing fluid directly onto the windshield in a controlled manner, often missing desired spots due to uncontrolled spraying from nozzles or jets positioned on the vehicle's hood.
Innovation Solution
A windshield wiper apparatus with an elongate body member featuring a sealable channel and downward protruding blades, equipped with series of holes for fluid dispensing, and a clip mechanism to form a leakproof seal, allowing fluid to be directed onto the windshield as the blade moves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If nozzles or jets are positioned on the hood to spray water, then water can be delivered to the windshield, but the spraying is uncontrolled and does not reach desired spots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning multiple holes at specific locations along the wiper blade body, with each hole strategically placed to deliver water to particular spots on the windshield that correspond to the wiper's cleaning path. This ensures water is delivered precisely where needed rather than through uncontrolled hood-mounted nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper blade body serves as an intermediary device that combines both the wiping function and the water delivery function. By integrating holes into the blade itself, the system uses the blade as a mediator to transport and dispense water directly at the contact point with the windshield, eliminating the need for separate hood-mounted nozzle systems.
2Reliability
If a sealable channel is formed by connecting opposing parts, then a leakproof seal can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the wiper blade body into first and second opposing parts that can be separately manufactured and then connected. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of each part while maintaining the ability to form a complete sealable channel when assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the additional assembly step.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting structure serves multiple functions: it mechanically joins the opposing parts together, forms the sealable channel for water delivery, and provides mounting points for the wiper carriage. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining seal integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a windshield wiper apparatus that is formed to dispense fluid. The wiper apparatus includes an elongate body member having a length with a sealable channel therein that runs along the length. At least one blade protrudes downward along the length of the elongate body member. Further, a series of holes are formed such they pass from the sealable channel and through the elongate body member proximate the at least one blade. Thus, a fluid passing through the sealable channel is dispensed onto a surface proximate the at least one blade.