Elastic Holding Device for Wiper Linkage Blocking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wiper mechanism wheelhouse blocking elements require tools for installation and removal, generate debris, and are disposable, leading to additional costs and waste.

Innovation Solution

A holding device comprising a clip with elastic arms and a retaining clip that snap-fastens onto the wheelhouse's bearing and connecting rod, allowing for tool-free installation and removal, and remaining on the linkage post-installation to reduce waste.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If disposable locking elements are used to block the wheelhouse in transport position, then the wheelhouse can be secured during transport, but tools are required for removal and debris is generated that requires treatment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidremoval ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The holding device is designed to be self-servicing through its elastic arms that automatically engage with the barrel and connecting rod. The elastic arms flex to allow installation without tools and return to their original position to secure the linkage, eliminating the need for external tools during both installation and removal operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic arms change their physical state by flexing and deforming elastically during installation and removal. This parameter change allows the arms to temporarily yield to permitting engagement and disengagement without tools, while maintaining secure locking during transport when in their rigid, engaged state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If disposable locking elements are used, then the wheelhouse can be blocked in transport position, but additional costs are incurred for tool usage and waste treatment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidwaste generation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of discarding the holding device after single use, the design allows it to be recovered and reused. The elastic arms and modular construction enable the device to maintain its functional properties after removal, allowing it to be reused on subsequent wheelhouses, thereby reducing waste and associated treatment costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Solution Approach 2:

The holding device is designed as an inexpensive component that can be easily replaced if needed, but its reusability extends its service life. The simple elastic arm mechanism and lack of complex materials keep production costs low while enabling multiple uses, reducing the frequency of disposal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If complex locking mechanisms are used to secure the wheelhouse, then reliable blocking is achieved, but installation becomes complicated requiring tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblocking reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The holding device is segmented into distinct functional components: the clip with elastic arms for engaging the barrel, and the retaining clip for securing the connecting rod. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall installation process, as each segment can be independently engaged without requiring tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The traditional mechanical locking system requiring screws, clips, or other fastening mechanisms is replaced with an elastic deformation-based system. The elastic arms use their inherent material properties to create the locking action, eliminating the need for separate fastening components and tools while maintaining reliable blocking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Facilitates easy and tool-free blocking and release of the wheelhouse in transport and installation positions, reducing waste and operational costs by remaining on the linkage after installation.

Implementation Method 1

a clip (11) comprising two elastic arms (13) intended to cooperate with a barrel (31) of a bearing (5)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3412522B1Device for holding a linkage of a wiping mechanism, linkage bearing, associated linkage subassembly and linkage, and method for placing a holding device on a linkage
Publication Date: 2020.08.26 VALEO SYST DESSUYAGE SAS
  • EP3412522B1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP3412522B1 patent drawingFigure 5A~6

AI summary

The present invention relates to a holding device (1) of a linkage (3) of a wiping mechanism in a transport position, characterized in that the holding device (1) comprises: • a clip including two elastic arms intended to cooperate with a barrel (31) of the linkage (3), and • a holding clip intended to cooperate with a connecting rod (33) of the linkage (3), the holding clip being connected to the clip so that in the mounted state, the holding device (1) connects the connecting rod (33) to the barrel (31) in a fixed manner in a position close to the barrel (31) relative to the connecting rod (33).