Pivotable Wiper Plate Wings With Single-Element Lock Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper plates require high force and skill to transition between working and release positions due to complex structural configurations and separate locking and release devices, making them difficult to operate and inefficient in material usage.
Innovation Solution
A wiper plate design featuring a single movable element that fixes and releases plate wings, allowing easy transition between positions with a structurally simple structure, utilizing interlocking tooth surfaces and a bistable locking lever that can be operated with minimal force, eliminating the need for separate locking and release devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate locking means and separate release device are provided, then the panel wings can be reliably fixed in working position, but the device complexity increases and material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking means and release device into a single integrated movable element (locking lever). This single element performs both locking and releasing functions, eliminating the need for separate locking lugs and release mechanisms. The locking lever engages with detents on the pivot axes to lock the plate wings, and can be actuated to release them, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability through the unified design.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable element (locking lever) is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the locking means that secures the plate wings in working position and the release device that unlocks them. By making this single component multi-functional, the patent reduces the overall number of parts and simplifies the structure while ensuring reliable operation for both locking and releasing operations.
2Reliability
If a rocker is fixed to panel wing with locking device nose, then the panel wing cannot fall back into latched state, but the ease of operation deteriorates requiring high force and skill
Solution Approach 1:
The locking lever is designed as a dynamic element that can move between different positions (locked and released states) rather than being fixed. It pivots about a lever axis and can be easily actuated by foot pressure to transition between locking and releasing the plate wings. This dynamic design eliminates the need for fixed rockers and locking device noses, making operation simple and intuitive without requiring high force or skill.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking lever system is designed to be self-operating through simple foot pressure. The lever naturally transitions between locked and released states based on the operator's input, without requiring complex mechanisms or high forces. The detents on the pivot axes work automatically with the locking lever to provide stable positioning, and the system self-regulates to prevent accidental release while allowing easy intentional release.
3Reliability
If a spring is used to fix movable element in release position, then the element remains fixed in release position, but the ease of operation worsens requiring force against spring restoring force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the spring mechanism entirely from the design. Instead of using a spring to hold the movable element in the release position, the locking lever is designed to be held in the locked position by detents on the pivot axes. The lever can be easily moved to the release position by simple foot pressure without having to overcome any spring restoring force. This extraction of the spring element simplifies operation while maintaining reliable positioning through the detent-based locking mechanism.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6a~6c
AI summary
The invention relates to a wiper plate (1) comprising a base body (2) to which two plate wings (5, 6) that each can pivot about a pivot axis (3, 4) are connected, a displaceable element (7) which can be actuated such that it reversibly secures the plate wings (5, 6) in a working position and, in doing so, is fixed in position. Said displaceable element (7) can be actuated such that it can undo the securing of the plate wings (5, 6) and move the plate wings (5, 6) into a loose position in which they can be pivoted relative to each other. The aim of the invention is to design and develop a wiper plate of said type such that it can be moved easily from a working position into a loose position whilst having a simple design. As a result, the displaceable element (7) is secured in the working position and is not secured in the loose position.