Wiper Device Latching Means for Secure Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wiper devices for motor-vehicle windows lack a straightforward assembly mechanism that effectively restricts the movement of the wiper-arm adapter unit relative to the wiper-blade adapter unit, leading to complex assembly processes and potential instability during operation.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a movably mounted latching means that undergoes elastic deformation, designed as a barb or integral with the wiper-blade adapter unit, to establish a form fit and restrict movement in specific directions, allowing for easy assembly and protection against external influences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a latching means is added to restrict movement of the wiper-arm adapter unit, then assembly straightforwardness and stability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly straightforwardnessVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The latching means is integrated into the wiper-blade adapter unit by forming it in one piece with the basic body, combining the latching function with the existing adapter structure to avoid adding separate complex components while still achieving movement restriction and stable assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The latching means is designed to undergo elastic deformation during assembly, allowing it to automatically engage and restrict movement without requiring additional fastening operations or complex adjustment mechanisms, making the assembly process straightforward while maintaining stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If the latching means is deflected parallel to the transverse direction to absorb large forces, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce absorption capabilityVSAvoidoperational straightforwardness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The latching means is designed with elastic deformation capability that allows it to dynamically adapt its deflection direction based on the assembly process and operational forces, enabling it to absorb large forces in the transverse direction during assembly while remaining operable by the user through controlled deformation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the latching means is deflected parallel to the longitudinal direction for easier operation, then ease of operation is improved, but force absorption capability worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational straightforwardnessVSAvoidforce absorption capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The latching means is designed with specific elastic properties and geometric parameters that allow it to undergo controlled deformation in the longitudinal direction during operation while maintaining sufficient force absorption capability through its material selection and structural design, balancing ease of operation with mechanical strength

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution enables straightforward and secure assembly of the wiper device, restricting movement in desired directions, enhancing stability and protection against external factors like water, while allowing for efficient user access and operation.

Implementation Method 1

a means which, during an assembly sequence, undergoes elastic deformation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9302652B2Wiper device
Publication Date: 2016.04.05 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • US9302652B2 patent drawing
  • US9302652B2 patent drawing
  • US9302652B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention is based on a wiper device for a motor vehicle window, with a wiper arm adapter unit (10a 10j) and a wiper blade adapter unit (12a 12j), which, in a fitted state, form a form-fitting connection. It is proposed that the wiper device has at least one movably mounted latching means (56a 56j) for restricting the wiper arm adapter unit (10a 10j) in the freedom of movement thereof, in the fitted state, at least substantially in a vertical direction (44a 44j) of the wiper blade adapter unit (12a 12j).