Wiper Arm Washer Nozzle Layout for Leak-Safe Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing wiper arm designs require complex assembly due to the need for multiple small parts and orthogonal flow paths, leading to increased complexity and potential leakage issues with washer fluid.
Innovation Solution
A wiper arm design featuring a washer nozzle with intersecting flow paths that can be molded using a single mold, utilizing a large closing member to seal the flow path opening, reducing the need for small parts and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a connection flow path is provided orthogonally between upstream and downstream flow paths, then the washer fluid can be supplied from the upstream flow path to the downstream flow path, but it requires mounting a lid member on the end of the connection flow path to prevent leakage, which increases the number of parts and complicates assembly work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection flow path with the downstream flow path by providing a communication portion that allows the connection flow path to communicate with the downstream flow path internally. This eliminates the need for a separate lid member to close the connection flow path, as the downstream flow path itself serves as the closing structure. The washer fluid flows from the upstream flow path through the connection flow path and directly into the downstream flow path without requiring additional sealing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The downstream flow path serves multiple functions: it acts as both a fluid conduit and a closing member for the connection flow path. By designing the downstream flow path to have an internal communication portion, it simultaneously guides the washer fluid and prevents leakage at the connection flow path end, eliminating the need for a dedicated lid member.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple small parts are used for flow path connection and sealing, then the washer fluid can be directed through multiple flow paths, but small parts management becomes difficult and assembly work becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flow path functions into a single integrated nozzle body structure. The upstream flow path, connection flow path, and downstream flow path are all formed as continuous internal passages within the nozzle body, eliminating the need for multiple separate small parts. The communication portion between the connection flow path and downstream flow path is built into the nozzle body structure, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
While maintaining internal integration, the nozzle body is segmented into distinct functional regions: the upstream flow path portion, the connection flow path portion, and the downstream flow path portion. This segmentation allows for clear functional differentiation while maintaining structural integration, making the design both versatile for fluid distribution and simple for assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A washer nozzle comprises a first flow path that extends in the longitudinal direction of an arm piece, a second flow path that is connected to the downstream side of the first flow path and that extends in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the arm piece, an upstream opening that opens the first flow path and the second flow path toward one side in the longitudinal direction of the arm piece, and a blocking member that is provided with a joint part connected by a washer tube and that blocks the upstream opening.