Wiper Linkage Ball-Socket Locking for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing windscreen wiper actuating linkage systems require power tools for assembling ball-and-socket joints, which is cumbersome and time-consuming, especially in assembly-line environments, and deliver components as a single, preassembled piece, complicating vehicle mounting.
Innovation Solution
A ball socket assembly with a socket and ball stud that can be secured without tools, featuring a locking mechanism allowing manual assembly of connecting rods to cranks, enabling separate delivery and easy assembly on the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power tools are used to assemble ball-and-socket joints, then the joint can be securely assembled, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The ball-and-socket joint is divided into separate components (ball portion, socket, locking means) that can be assembled manually through sequential steps, eliminating the need for power tools while maintaining secure assembly
Solution Approach 2:
A locking means acts as an intermediary element between the ball portion and socket, providing a manual locking mechanism that secures the joint without requiring powered clamping devices
2Reliability
If components are delivered as a preassembled unit, then assembly security is ensured, but transportation cost increases and assembly flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system is segmented into separate pivot assemblies that can be delivered individually and assembled manually on the vehicle, reducing transportation volume and cost while maintaining assembly security through the manual locking mechanism
3Quantity of substance
If pivot assemblies are delivered separately, then transportation cost is reduced, but assembly becomes more complex requiring tools
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means is extracted as a separate, manually-operable component that simplifies the assembly process, allowing pivot assemblies to be delivered separately and connected without requiring complex powered tools
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~4b
AI summary
The present invention relates to a wiper actuating linkage system for a windscreen wiper system, comprising at least one connecting rod (201) extending between longitudinal ends (203, 205) thereof; and at least one crank, wherein a longitudinal end of the at least one connecting rod (201) is articulated to the at least one crank (207) by means of a ball socket assembly comprising a socket (209) and a ball stud (211) which is configured to be secured to the crank (207), the socket (209) comprising a body portion (215) configured to receive a ball portion (217) of the ball stud (211) therein, and the socket (209) further comprises at least one locking slot (227) receiving a locking means (213) for retaining the ball portion (217) inside the socket (209).