CN107000694B

CN107000694B - Windscreen wiper device

Info

Publication number: CN107000694B
Application number: CN201580069586.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: M.施泰因梅茨; M.魏勒
Original assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
Current assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
Priority date: 2014-12-18
Filing date: 2015-12-03
Publication date: 2020-01-07
Anticipated expiration: 2035-12-03
Also published as: DE102014226401A1; FR3030413A1; FR3030413B1; WO2016096453A1; CN107000694A

Abstract

The invention relates to a windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprising a wiper blade (2) having: a longitudinally extending upper part (10) designed to be at least partially bendable; a longitudinally extending lower member (12) configured to be at least partially bendable, wherein the longitudinally extending lower member (12) comprises a first material; a plurality of connecting elements (18) for connecting the upper part (10) and the lower part (12), wherein the connecting elements (18) are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal extension (8) of the wiper blade (2) and are attached to the upper part (10) and/or the lower part (12) by means of a pivot joint (20), in particular wherein the connecting elements (18) are designed such that a movement of the upper part (10) and the lower part (12) relative to one another with a movement component along the longitudinal extension (8) of the wiper blade (2) is possible; and at least one stabilizing device (110, 210) made of a second material.

Description

Windscreen wiper device

Technical Field

The present application relates to a windscreen wiper device for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, and to a method for producing a windscreen wiper device.

Background

A windscreen wiper device typically has a wiper arm or wiper lever, wherein a wiper blade, to which a wiper lip is fastened, moves on a pane of a motor vehicle. The wiper arm is alternately movable between a first and a second pivoted position. For this purpose, the wiper arm is connected to the wiper motor via a drive shaft.

In particular, the windscreen wiper device should have as little influence as possible on the driver's field of vision during wiping, without losing functionality. Furthermore, the wiper blade should exert a stable and sufficient pressing pressure (bearing force) on the vehicle pane over its length in order to be able to achieve a good wiping effect and to reduce or avoid the formation of scratches.

There are also a number of edge conditions that should be taken into account when improving a windscreen wiper device. The manufacturing costs and material costs, but also the properties of the wiper device, in particular the function under various conditions and the long life under various conditions, are associated with these marginal conditions. In this case, it is to be taken into account in wiper devices for vehicles that the cost pressure is constantly increasing and that the vehicle may be used in a plurality of climatic conditions, so that, for example, extreme temperature values occur permanently and/or with large fluctuations.

There is therefore a need for further improvements in the windscreen wiper device, in particular with as little influence as possible on the driver's view.

Disclosure of Invention

The object of the present application is to provide a windscreen wiper device with which at least one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages are reduced or substantially absent.

According to an embodiment of the present application, a windscreen wiper device for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, is provided, comprising a wiper blade. The wiper blade includes: a longitudinally extending upper member designed to be at least partially bendable; a longitudinally extending lower member designed to be at least partially bendable, wherein the longitudinally extending lower member comprises a first material; a plurality of connecting elements for connecting the upper part and the lower part, wherein the connecting elements are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal extension of the wiper blade and are arranged on the upper part and/or the lower part by means of a pivot joint, in particular wherein the connecting elements are designed to enable a movement of the upper part and the lower part relative to one another with a movement component extending in the longitudinal direction of the wiper blade; and at least one stabilizing device made of a second material.

The windscreen wiper device according to the invention can be provided with small geometrical dimensions, whereby the driver's field of vision is little to no longer affected. However, the functionality and stability of the windscreen wiper device are ensured in particular by the provision of the at least one stabilizing element.

Preferred, alternative embodiments and specific aspects of the present application are derived from the drawings and the present description.

Advantages of the present application

In accordance with the embodiments described herein, a pane wiper device, in particular a fin-line pane wiper device, for a vehicle pane can be produced in a particularly advantageous manner and/or for a plurality of different fields of use. The present embodiment of the fin-line windscreen wiper device allows a compact dimensioning of the windscreen wiper device, in particular by means of the stiffening means, so that the driver's field of vision is little to no longer influenced. Functionality and stability can be ensured.

In some embodiments, the second material comprises a metal and/or carbon. The metal and the carbon are characterized by a high hardness level and/or rigidity, whereby the at least one stabilizing element imparts a high stability to the wiper blade. The second material may be an organic sheet according to an embodiment. The organic sheet is a semi-finished product of the fiber base material. In particular, the organic sheet may be made of a fiber fabric or a fiber facing, which may be embedded in a thermoplastic matrix.

Typically, the at least one stabilizing means comprises a flat strip, in particular a metal strip, a metal insert or an organic sheet. The wiper blade can thus be produced simply and cost-effectively.

According to some embodiments described herein, the at least one stabilizing means comprises a reinforcing fiber. For example, the reinforcing fibers may comprise or be carbon fibers or glass fibers. In further examples, the reinforcing fibers may include a mixture made of carbon fibers and glass fibers. Thereby, the wiper blade can be equipped with high stability.

In some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, the at least one stabilization means is at least partially enclosed by the first material and is in particular injection-coated. Typically, the at least one stabilization device may be at least partially, and in particular completely, embedded in the first material. A wiper blade with a stabilizing element can thus be produced in a simple manner, for example by means of injection molding.

According to some embodiments, which may be combined with further embodiments described herein, the first material is selected from the group consisting of: acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyamide (PA), polylactic acid (PLA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), Polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The lower part can thus be produced simply and cost-effectively.

According to some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, the wiper device for a pane comprises a wiper blade side fastening member, which is provided for connection with a fastening element on a vehicle. Typically, the at least one stabilizing element may be arranged in the region of the wiper blade side fastening part. A high stability can thus be provided in the region of the fastening of the pane wiper device on the fastening element, which can, for example, increase the service life of the pane wiper device.

In some implementations, the at least one stabilizing element can have a recess or recess, for example a hole, in the region of the wiper blade-side fastening part. The recess can be provided for the passage of a structural element on the vehicle. A high stability can thus be provided in the region of the fastening of the pane wiper device on the fastening element, which can, for example, increase the service life of the pane wiper device.

According to some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, the pane wiper device comprises at least one spoiler, which is arranged on the longitudinally extending upper part. The spoiler can also ensure contact of the wiper blade and in particular a wiper lip arranged on the wiper blade with the vehicle window pane in the event of driving wind. In particular, the spoiler can ensure a sufficient pressing pressure of the wiper blade on the pane. This improves the wiping effect and prevents scratches from forming.

According to an embodiment of the application, the spoiler has a cross section extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the wiper blade, wherein the cross section is symmetrical or asymmetrical. Typically, the cross-section has a beveled or concave section. By means of a symmetrical or asymmetrical cross section and/or an oblique angled section or a concave section, the spoiler can provide an optimized supporting behavior exerted on the glass pane taking into account, for example, the wind direction of the traveling wind, the buckling of the glass pane and/or the wiping direction of the glass pane wiping device.

According to some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, the at least one stabilizing means comprises at least one cover element, which can be placed onto at least one of the plurality of connecting elements. Typically, the at least one cover element at least partially covers the area between the longitudinally extending upper part and the longitudinally extending lower part. The at least one cover element may improve the stability of the wiper blade.

According to a further aspect of the application, a method for manufacturing a windscreen wiper device as described above is given, comprising injection coating the at least one stabilizing element with a first material, for example by means of injection molding. The wiper blade can thus be manufactured in a simple manner and in a stable manner. In particular, the lower part and the at least one stabilizing means can be produced in a simple manner with reduced effort.

Drawings

Embodiments of the present application are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and explained in detail below. Wherein:

fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device according to an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device according to a further embodiment of the present application;

fig. 3A and 3B show schematic views of a glass pane wiper device having a spoiler according to an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 4A and 4B show schematic views of a windscreen wiper device with a plurality of cover elements according to an embodiment of the present application;

fig. 5A shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device with a wiper blade according to an embodiment of the present application in a basic position;

fig. 5B shows a schematic illustration of the windscreen wiper device according to fig. 5A in a position abutting against the pane;

fig. 6A shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device with a wiper blade according to a further embodiment of the present application in a basic position;

fig. 6B shows a schematic illustration of the windscreen wiper device according to fig. 6A according to an embodiment of the application in a position abutting against the pane;

fig. 7 shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device having a wiper blade according to a further embodiment of the present application in a basic position; and

fig. 8 shows a schematic view of the windshield wiper device according to fig. 7 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application in a position abutting against the pane.

Detailed Description

In the following, the same reference numerals are used for identical and functionally identical elements, if not otherwise noted.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device 100 according to an embodiment of the present application.

According to an embodiment, the wiper blade 2 has a longitudinally extending upper part 10 and a longitudinally extending lower part 12, which are designed to be at least partially bendable, wherein the lower part 12 faces the pane 4 when the windscreen wiper device is in operation. Furthermore, a plurality of connecting elements 18 are provided for connecting the upper part 10 to the lower part 12, wherein the connecting elements 18 are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade and are attached to the upper part 10 and/or the lower part 12 by means of a pivot joint. The connecting element 18 is designed to enable a movement of the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 relative to each other with a movement component along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2. In this case, the connecting elements are connected at corresponding upper connecting points on the upper part 10 and at corresponding lower connecting points on the lower part 12. For example, rotational joints are provided at these connection positions, respectively. The spacing of the upper connection position relative to the lower connection position on the same connection element does not substantially change when the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are moved relative to one another, i.e. the spacing is constant with a deviation of, for example, ± 1mm, in particular, ± 0.3 mm.

The windscreen wiper device 100 further has at least one stabilizing element 110 made of a second material.

Along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2, the spacing between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 from the wiper blade head becomes smaller, at least in the region of the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2 or in the main part of the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2, see fig. 6A, 6B, 7 and 8. Starting from the head end, the height of the wiper blade 2 in these regions tapers or becomes smaller in the region of the longitudinal extension 8. For example, according to one embodiment, the length of the connecting element 18 can be provided for a plurality of connecting elements 18 in such a way that the connecting element 18 provided in the vicinity of the wiper blade head is longer than the connecting element on the opposite side along the longitudinal extension 8, i.e. in the connecting position of the wiper blade 2.

According to an embodiment, the wiper blade 2 comprises a wiper lip (not shown) arranged on the lower part 12 of the wiper blade 2. The wiping lip is typically located on the underside of the lower part 12 facing away from the upper part 10. The wiper lip can be provided for resting on a vehicle pane for wiping purposes. For the sake of overview, the wiper lip is not shown in these figures.

The windscreen wiper device 100 according to the present application can be provided with small geometrical dimensions, whereby the driver's field of vision is little to no influence. However, the functionality and stability of the windscreen wiper device 100 are ensured in particular by the provision of the at least one stabilizing element 110.

In order to influence the driver's field of vision as little as possible, the following relationship applies: b X < L. B gives the width of the windscreen wiper device or wiper blade, L gives the length of the windscreen wiper device or wiper blade, and X may be greater than 20, and in particular may be greater than or equal to 20, 25 or 30. Therefore, a windscreen wiper device or wiper blade having a length of more than or equal to 35cm should have a maximum width of, for example, 1.5cm, in order to influence the field of view as little as possible. In particular, the width may be equal to or less than one twentieth of the length. The at least one stabilizing element can also ensure a stabilization of the windshield wiper device or of the wiper blade with such a geometry.

According to some embodiments, which may be combined with further embodiments described herein, the first material is selected from the group consisting of: acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyamide (PA), polylactic acid (PLA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), Polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In particular, the lower part 12 may be made of one of the materials mentioned above. The lower part 12 can thus be produced simply and cost-effectively.

In some embodiments, the second material comprises a metal and/or carbon. Metal and carbon are characterized by a high hardness level or a high rigidity, whereby the at least one stabilizing element 110 imparts a high stability and/or strength to the wiper blade 2. The metal may be, for example, high quality steel, copper, aluminum or an alloy. The second material may be an organic sheet according to an embodiment. The organic sheet is a semi-finished product of the fiber base material. In particular, the organic sheet may be made of a fiber fabric or a fiber facing, which may be embedded in a thermoplastic matrix.

Typically, the at least one stabilizing device 110 comprises a flat strip, in particular a metal strip, a metal insert or an organic sheet. The metal strip or metal insert may have a substantially rectangular configuration and/or may be a sheet material. As a result, the wiper blade 2 can be produced simply and cost-effectively.

In some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, the at least one stabilization device 110 is at least partially enclosed by the first material, and in particular is injection-coated. Typically, the at least one stabilization device 110 may be at least partially, and in particular completely, embedded in the first material. For example, a metal strip or a metal insert is at least partially embedded in the lower part 12 and/or at least partially surrounded or injection-coated by the first material. The stabilizing means 110 can thus be connected to the lower part 12 in a simple manner.

According to some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, the wiper device 100 for a pane comprises a wiper blade side fastening member, which is provided for connection with a fastening element on a vehicle. The fastening element may be, for example, a drive shaft, which is driven by a motor.

Typically, the at least one stabilizing element 110 may be arranged in an area of the wiper blade side fastening part. A high stability can thus be provided in the region of the fastening of the pane wiper device 100 on the fastening element, which can, for example, increase the service life of the pane wiper device 100.

In some implementations, the at least one stabilizing element 110 can have a recess or recess, for example a hole 112, in the region of the wiper blade-side fastening part. This recess can be provided for the passage of a fastening element on the vehicle (for example a flat strip with "eyes"). A high stability can thus be provided in the region of the fastening of the pane wiper device 100 on the fastening element, which can, for example, increase the service life of the pane wiper device 100.

In some embodiments, the at least one stabilization means 110 may provide a reinforcement, for example a metal reinforcement, on the connection (fastening element, shaft) for improved torque transmission.

According to some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments, the at least one stabilizing means extends over at least a part of the length of the lower part 12 extending in the longitudinal direction, in particular over at least 50%, at least 80% or 100%, i.e. substantially over the entire length of the lower part 12. High stability and strength may be provided by extension over at least a major portion of the longitudinal extension of the lower member 12.

According to another aspect of the present application, a method for manufacturing a wiper device for a glass pane is presented according to embodiments described herein. The method comprises injection coating the at least one stabilizing device with a first material, for example by means of injection molding. The wiper blade can thus be manufactured in a simple manner and with robustness. In particular, the lower part and the at least one stabilizing means can be produced in a simple manner with reduced effort.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device 200 according to a further embodiment of the present application.

According to some embodiments described herein, the at least one stabilizing means 210 comprises reinforcing fibers. For example, the reinforcing fibers may include carbon fibers or glass fibers. In further examples, the reinforcing fibers may include a mixture made of carbon fibers and glass fibers. Thereby, the wiper blade 2 can be equipped with high stability. The reinforcing fibers may be embedded or embedded in the lower component 12 or the first material, for example.

Fig. 3A and 3B show schematic views of a glass pane wiper device 300 having a spoiler 310 according to an embodiment of the present application. Fig. 3A shows a side view of the windscreen wiper device 300, and fig. 3B shows a side view of the windscreen wiper device 300 along the sectional line a-a in fig. 3A.

According to some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, the pane wiper device 300 comprises at least one spoiler 310, which is arranged on the longitudinally extending upper part 10. The spoiler 310 can ensure contact of the wiper blade 2 and in particular a wiper lip arranged on the wiper blade 2 with the vehicle window pane even in the event of driving wind. In particular, the spoiler 310 can ensure a sufficient pressing pressure of the wiper blade 2 onto the pane. This improves the wiping effect and prevents scratches from forming.

According to an embodiment of the application, the spoiler 310 has a cross section substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2, wherein the cross section is symmetrical or asymmetrical. Typically, the cross-section has substantially a beveled or concave section. The spoiler 310 may be symmetrical or asymmetrical about the axis 315. The axis 315 may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2. By means of a symmetrical or asymmetrical cross section, the spoiler 310 can provide an optimized pressing pressure exerted on the glass pane taking into account, for example, the wind direction of the driving wind, the buckling of the glass pane and/or the wiping direction of the glass pane wiper device 300.

The spoiler 310 typically has an angled or concave section. The angled or concave section may be an inflow surface. The inflow surface can be designed such that it faces the main flow direction of the traveling wind acting on the pane during operation of the wiper blade 2. The spoiler 310 can thus improve the contact behavior of the wiper blade 2, in particular at high driving speeds.

Typically, the spoiler 310 is made of a hard plastic, in particular a thermoplastic or a thermoset. The spoiler 310 and the upper part 10 can also be made of the same material. The spoiler 310 and/or the upper part 10 can be constructed, for example, by extrusion. The spoiler 310 can thus be produced in a simple manner and in a robust manner. According to an embodiment, at least the upper part 10 and the spoiler 310 are constructed in one piece or integrally. The spoiler 310 and the upper part 10 can thus be produced in a simple manner with reduced effort.

Fig. 4A shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device 400 with a cover element 410 according to an embodiment of the present application. Fig. 4B shows the cover element 410 of fig. 4A.

According to some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, the at least one stabilizing means comprises at least one cover element 410, which can be placed onto at least one connecting element 18 of the plurality of connecting elements 18. Typically, the at least one cover element 410 at least partially covers the area between the longitudinally extending upper part 10 and the longitudinally extending lower part 12. The area between the longitudinally extending upper part 10 and the longitudinally extending lower part 12 may be a lateral area of the windscreen wiper device 400 and/or comprise a longitudinally extending side surface of the windscreen wiper device 400. The longitudinally extending side surfaces may extend substantially along the longitudinal extension 8. The at least one cover element 410 ensures the stability of the wiper blade 2.

In a typical embodiment, a plurality of cover elements 410 can be provided, which cover (e.g., slide-over) the connecting elements 18 (also referred to as "connecting tabs") in a louvered manner. For example, the plurality of cover elements 410 may be configured as a shiplap shed. The at least one cover element 410 may have a substantially circular or oval shape.

In some implementations, the cover element 410 has a cover plate 412. The cover plate 412 may be arranged to at least partially cover the area between the longitudinally extending upper part 10 and the longitudinally extending lower part 12. Typically, the cover element 410 may have a mounting means 414, such as a clip or clip closure, on one side of the cover plate 412. The cover element 410 can thus be fitted to the wiper blade 2 in a simple manner.

In some embodiments, the first material and the second material may be the same, in particular when the at least one stabilizing means comprises a cover element 410, which is attached to the connecting element 18. For example, the lower part 12 and the cover element 410 can be made of the same material, in particular of the first material.

The following describes aspects of an exemplary pane wiper device, for which the embodiments described therein are particularly advantageous. In order to provide the "fin-line" effect explained in detail below with reference to fig. 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7 and 8, the connecting elements 18 are designed in particular so as to be movable about associated connecting points 20 in order to be able to realize a movement of the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 relative to one another with a movement component along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2. Embodiments of the present application, and in particular the stabilization device, may be used for front windshield wipers (e.g., fig. 5A and 5B) and rear windshield wipers (fig. 6A, 6B, 7, and 8).

Fig. 5A shows a schematic view of a windscreen wiper device having a wiper blade 2 according to an embodiment of the present application in a basic position. Fig. 5B shows a schematic illustration of the windshield wiper device according to the exemplary embodiment of the present application according to fig. 5A in a position abutting against the pane 4.

Fig. 5A and 5B show a wiper blade 2 with a longitudinal extension 8 which extends substantially between the connecting

locations

14 and 16. This arrangement is often used for front panel wipers. According to an embodiment, the pane wiper device may be a front pane wiper device or a rear pane wiper.

Fig. 5A and 5B show a schematic illustration of a wiper blade 2 according to an embodiment of the windshield wiper device according to the present application in a basic position (fig. 5A) and in a position abutting against a pane 4 (fig. 5B). Wiper blade 2 is used for wiping a window pane 4 of a vehicle, for example a motor vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle. In general, wiper blade 2 is mounted on a windshield wiper arm, which is driven for wiping by means of a motor. For this purpose, the wiper blade 2 has a holder 6, on which it can be fastened to the windshield wiper arm. In fig. 4A, the wiper blade 2 is in a basic position, in which it is at least partially lifted from the pane 4. The wiper blade 2 has a longitudinal extension 8 and has a longitudinally extending upper part 10 and a likewise longitudinally extending lower part 12. The longitudinal extension of the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 substantially corresponds to the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2.

The at least one stabilizing means may be provided on or in the lower part 12 and/or may be arranged or fitted on the connecting element 18. The at least one stabilization means may in particular be constructed according to the embodiments described herein.

Both the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are bendable beams or can be designed as bendable beams, which are exemplary each of a one-piece construction in fig. 5A and 5B. This enables a particularly robust construction. It is likewise possible for only a part of the upper part 10 and/or of the lower part 12, respectively, to be designed to be bendable. It is also alternatively possible for the upper part 10 to be designed in two parts, wherein then one end of each of the two parts of the two-part upper part 10 is fastened to the holder 6.

According to some embodiments, which can be combined with further embodiments described herein, a material is used for the upper part 10 and/or the lower part 12, which material has an elastic modulus of 0.005kN/mm²And 0.5kN/mm²In particular 0.01kN/mm²And 0.1kN/mm²In the range of (a). This enables a suitable flexibility between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12. Together with a suitably designed cross section of the upper part 10 and the lower part 12, an optimized bending stiffness is thus obtained. The upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are arranged such that they are opposite to each other. The two ends of the upper part 10 are fixedly connected to one end of the lower part 12 at outer connecting

points

14 and 16, respectively. In other aspects, the upper and

lower components

10, 12 are spaced apart from one another.

The upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are connected to each other by means of a connecting element 8. In particular in the basic position of the wiper blade 2, these connecting elements extend substantially transversely to the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2. The connecting element 18 is fastened on the inner longitudinal sides of the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 facing each other by means of a revolute joint 20. The rotary joint 20 is here, for example, a hinge. In particular, the rotary joint 20 can be designed as a film hinge. This is particularly advantageous when the upper part 10, the lower part 12 and/or the connecting element 18 are manufactured from a plastic material or are covered with a suitable plastic material.

According to embodiments typically described herein, which may be combined with further embodiments described herein, the revolute joint is selected from the group consisting of: a hinge; a film type hinge; a material narrowing for producing less rigidity along the torsion axis; a joint having an axis of rotation; means for connecting the upper part 10 with the connecting element 18 or for connecting the lower part 12 with the connecting element 18, which means allow a displacement of the lower part 12 with respect to the upper part 10 along the longitudinal extension 8; and so on.

Thus, the embodiment in which the articulation is provided by a film hinge provides a very simple way to provide an articulation for a fin-line wiper. According to a typical embodiment, the film hinge has a high extensibility. This may be provided, for example, by selecting a material from the group of PP, PE, POM and PA. Alternatively, the film hinge may be made of one or more materials from the group comprising TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), such as TPE-S, TPE-O, TPE-U, TPE-A, TPE-V and TPE-E.

The connecting elements 18 are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal extension of the wiper blade 2. The spacing between two adjacent connecting elements 18 is the same. These intervals may however also be chosen differently. These spacings are advantageously less than 50mm, in particular less than 30 mm. A particularly high flexibility of the pane wiper device, in particular of its lower part 12, and a good adaptation to the buckling and buckling changes of the pane 4 to be wiped can thereby be ensured. In fig. 5A, the spacing 22 is shown instead for the spacing between two respective connecting elements 18. The connecting elements 18 are fastened to the lower part 12, in particular in the basic position of the wiper blade 2, in such a way that their longitudinal axes extend at an angle 26 relative to the lower part 12.

In fig. 5A, a longitudinal axis 24 is shown by way of example for the longitudinal axis of the connecting element 18 and an angle 26 is shown, for example, for the angle between the connecting element 18 and the lower part 12. The spacing between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 is determined in particular by the length of the connecting element 18. Starting from the two outer connecting

points

14, 16, the length of the connecting element 18 increases approximately up to the point where the mounting of the holding element 6 on the upper part 10 begins. The upper part 10 and the lower part 12 thus form a double wedge in a side view onto the wiper blade 2 according to fig. 5A, wherein the tips of the two wedges point in opposite directions. The connecting element 18 is embodied so as to be flexurally tight.

The connecting elements 18 are connected to the upper part 10 at corresponding upper connecting points and to the lower part 12 at corresponding lower connecting points. For example, rotational joints are provided at these connection positions, respectively. The spacing of the upper connection positions relative to the lower connection positions on the same connection element 18 does not change substantially when the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are moved relative to one another, i.e. the spacing is constant with a deviation of, for example, ± 1mm, in particular, ± 0.3 mm.

Fig. 5B shows a schematic view of the wiper blade 2 according to fig. 5A in a position abutting against the pane 4. Since the pane 4 has a curvature, a contact pressure acts on the lower part 12 when the wiper blade 2 is in contact with the pane 4. Since the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 with the spoiler 310 are flexible beams and the connecting element 18 is rotatably supported on the upper part 10 and the lower part 12, the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 can be displaced relative to one another. By means of a pressing force acting on the lower part 12 from below, the wiper blade 2 is bent in a direction from which the pressing force comes out and comes to bear against the curvature of the pane 4.

In the illustration according to fig. 5B, a small distance exists between the wiper blade 2 and the pane 4, which distance is used here only to clarify the pane 4 and the wiper blade 2, and which distance is therefore largely absent in the actual case when the wiper blade 2 is in contact with the pane 4. Furthermore, typically on the underside of the lower part 12 facing away from the upper part 10, there is a wiper lip which rests on the glass pane 4 for wiping purposes. For the sake of overview, the wiper lip is not shown in fig. 5A and 5B.

The windshield wiper device according to the exemplary embodiments described here uses the effect of certain fish tail fins which, when pressed laterally, do not leave a defined position in the pressing direction, but rather bow in the opposite direction, i.e. in the direction from which the pressing comes out. This principle is also referred to as the fin-ray principle or "fin-line" principle. The windshield wiper device according to the embodiments described herein thus has the advantage of an improved adaptation to the motor vehicle window pane. In the case of conventional wiper blades, the upper part thereof is generally rigid, i.e. it is not designed to be bent.

In fig. 5A, the wiper blade 2 is shown in its position not abutting against the pane 4 in a manner in which the lower part 12 is of substantially rectilinear design. According to a still further embodiment, which can be combined with further embodiments, the lower part 12 is of convex design in the unloaded state, that is to say has a curvature which projects away from the upper part 10 in the central region. A windscreen wiper device according to the embodiments described herein can typically start from the convex shape of the lower part 12 when in contact with the pane 4 and then assume a concave shape in which the lower part 12 fits into the pane 4.

According to a further preferred embodiment, a plurality of connecting elements 18 can be connected to the upper part 10 in a plurality of upper connecting positions and to the lower part 12 in a plurality of corresponding lower connecting positions, wherein the spacing between the upper connecting positions and the corresponding lower connecting positions is substantially constant, in particular constant with an offset of ± 1mm, when the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are moved relative to one another. A force transmission between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 can thereby be provided, which enables a windscreen wiper device operating according to the fin-line principle.

Fig. 6A and 6B show a schematic view of a wiper blade 2 according to a further embodiment of the windshield wiper device according to the present application in a basic position (fig. 6A) and in a position abutting against a pane 4 (fig. 6B).

The upper member 10 and the lower member 12 are fastened to the wiper blade side fastening member 30. The windscreen wiper device can be connected to the vehicle or to the drive shaft of a windscreen wiper drive unit 32 (wiper motor) of the vehicle by means of a wiper blade-side fastening element 30, for example with a quick-fix fastening device. Such a quick-action fastening device makes it possible to connect the drive shaft of the windscreen wiper device to the wiper arm 1 in a quick-action manner.

On the side opposite the fastening part 30 along the longitudinal extension 8 of the windscreen wiper device, the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are connected at a connection location 34. The upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are connected to each other by means of a connecting element 18. The connection elements 18 are designed in such a way that the spacing of the connection positions with the upper part 10 and the spacing of the connection positions with the lower part 12 varies by a maximum of +/-1mm, in particular a maximum of +/-0.3mm (for example due to thermal expansion and/or pulling and pressing loads). The connecting elements 18 can thus be constructed substantially without elasticity or the effect of the connecting elements 18 is based on their force transmission between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 and not on their elasticity.

Fig. 6B shows a schematic view of the wiper blade 2 according to fig. 6A in a position abutting against the pane 4. Since the pane 4 has a curvature, a contact pressure acts on the lower part 12 when the wiper blade 2 is in contact with the pane 4. Since the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are flexible beams and the connecting element 12 is rotatably supported on the upper part 10 and the lower part 12, the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 can be displaced relative to each other. By means of a pressing force acting on the lower part 12 from below, the wiper blade 2 is bent in a direction from which the pressing force comes out and comes to bear against the curvature of the pane 4.

With the construction of the embodiment described here, a bending of the lower part 12 in the direction from which the force acts occurs when a force acts on the lower part 12 (via the glass pane 4). This is given by the connection, shape of the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 at the connection location 34 and by the revolute joint 20 at the connection between the connecting element 18 and the upper or lower part.

Fig. 7 and 8 show a schematic illustration of a wiper blade 2 of a windshield wiper device for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle, in a basic position (fig. 7), i.e. in an unloaded state and in a position abutting against a windshield 4 (fig. 8) according to the exemplary embodiment described therein. The wiper blade 2 comprises a longitudinally extending upper part 10 and a longitudinally extending lower part 12, which are at least partially designed to be bendable. Furthermore, a plurality of connecting elements 18 for connecting the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 are provided, wherein the connecting elements 18 are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2. These connecting elements 18 are designed to enable a movement of the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 relative to each other with a movement component along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2. Furthermore, the connecting element 18 is arranged relative to the lower component 12 in such a way that, in the unloaded state of the wiper blade 2, the angle α n of the respective longitudinal axis 24 of the connecting element 18 relative to the lower component 12 changes, in particular continuously or monotonically or strictly monotonically, at least partially along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2.

In the wiper blade 2 shown in fig. 7 in the unloaded state, the angle α n of the connecting element 18, which angle α n changes along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2, is denoted by α 1, α 2, α 3,. α n-1, α n, with respect to the corresponding longitudinal axis 24 of the lower component 12. In the loaded state of the wiper blade 2, i.e. in the position in which it rests against the pane 4, as shown for example in fig. 8, the angle α n of the respective longitudinal axis 24 of the connecting element 18 relative to the lower part 12 changes compared to the unloaded state. To represent this, the angle α n of the respective longitudinal axis 24 of the connecting element 18 with respect to the lower part 12, which angle α n changes along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2, is denoted α ' 1, α ' 2, α ' 3,. α ' n-1, α ' n in the wiper blade shown in fig. 8 in the position abutting against the pane.

According to an embodiment of the windscreen wiper device, which can be combined with further embodiments, said wiper blade 2 has at least one first region, in which the angle α n of the longitudinal axis 24 of the connecting element 18 with respect to the lower part 12 along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2 decreases, in particular monotonically, in particular strictly monotonically, towards a wiper blade end. Furthermore, the wiper blade 2 has at least one second region in which the angle α n of the longitudinal axis 24 of the connecting element 18 relative to the lower part 12 along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2 increases, in particular monotonically, in particular strictly monotonically, towards a wiper blade end. According to the embodiment shown, for example, in fig. 7 and 8, the angle α n of the longitudinal axis 24 of the connecting element 18 relative to the lower part 12 along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2 increases towards a wiper blade end in a second region of the wiper blade 2, which is arranged in an inner position of the wiper blade in the vicinity of the fastening part 30 of the wiper blade 2. A pane wiper device can thereby be provided, which enables a particularly good adaptation to the buckling of the pane 4. Furthermore, a largely stable pressing pressure of the pane wiper device on the pane 4 and a uniform force distribution of the pane wiper device can be provided, so that a high wiping quality is provided.

According to an embodiment of the wiper blade 2 which can be combined with further embodiments, the connecting element 18 is fastened to the lower part 12, in particular in the unloaded state of the wiper blade 2, in such a way that the longitudinal axis 24 of the connecting element 18 extends at angles α n relative to the lower part 12, which angles lie between a lower angle limit value α nu and an upper limit value α no. According to an embodiment, the lower angle boundary value is α nu =10 °, in particular α nu =15 °, in particular α nu =20 °, and the upper angle boundary value α no =80 °, in particular α no =90 °, in particular α no =100 °. This advantageously ensures that the forces acting on the lower part 12 are transmitted particularly well to the upper part 10.

According to an embodiment of the windscreen wiper device, which can be combined with further embodiments, the connecting element 18 is configured in such a way that the spacing between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 varies at least partially along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2, in particular continuously decreases in a first region and continuously increases in a second region. The spacing between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2 may also comprise an area in which the spacing between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 along the longitudinal extension 8 of the wiper blade 2 is substantially constant. The spacing between the upper part 10 and the lower part 12 is greater on the fastening part 30 than on the opposite ends thereof in the connecting position.

According to an embodiment of the wiper blade 2, which can be combined with further embodiments, the inner (facing fastening means) spacing value is at least 15mm, in particular at least 25mm, in particular at least 35 mm. According to an embodiment which can be combined with further embodiments, the outer spacing value is at least 10 mm, in particular at least 12.5mm, in particular at least 15 mm. According to an embodiment which can be combined with further embodiments, the intermediate spacing value is at least 7.5mm, in particular at least 9mm, in particular at least 12.5 mm.

As is shown by way of example in fig. 7 and 8, the connecting element 18 according to one embodiment, which can be combined with further embodiments, is connected in an articulated manner to the lower part 12 and/or to the upper part 10. In particular, the connecting element 18 is connected to the lower part 12 and/or the upper part 10 by means of a first film hinge 20. The first film hinge 20 can be formed in one piece with the connecting element 18 and the upper part 10 and/or the lower part 12. The one-piece design of the film hinge allows simple and cost-effective production.

According to a wiper blade embodiment which can be combined with further embodiments described therein, the wiper blade comprises a first region with a first curvature ω <0 and a second region with a second curvature ω > 0. Furthermore, the wiper blade according to an embodiment can have a third region with a third degree of flexion ω <0, wherein the second region of the wiper blade with the second degree of flexion ω >0 is arranged between the first region with the first degree of flexion ω <0 and the third region with the third degree of flexion ω <0, as is illustrated in an exemplary manner in fig. 7. A pane wiper device can thus be provided, with which a largely stable pressing pressure can be achieved on the pane 4. Furthermore, a windshield wiper device can be provided which has an improved fit to the windshield 4 and a high wiping quality.

According to a further embodiment, in the case of a quick-action fastening closure which can be used for a fin-line wiper, in which the entire windscreen wiper device is removed from the drive shaft on the vehicle, a mechanism can be provided in addition to the quick-action fastening closure in order to lift the wiper blade 2 of the windscreen wiper device from the pane 4 or to rest it thereon. This further simplifies the use, for example, of manual cleaning of the glass plate 4.

The windscreen wiper device according to the invention can be provided with small geometries, whereby the driver's field of vision is little to no longer affected. The functionality and stability of the windscreen wiper device are ensured in particular by the provision of at least one stabilizing means of the lower part.

Claims

1. Windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) for a vehicle, comprising a wiper blade (2) having:

-a longitudinally extending upper part (10) designed to be at least partially bendable;

-a longitudinally extending lower part (12) designed to be at least partially bendable, wherein the longitudinally extending lower part (12) comprises a first material;

-a plurality of connecting elements (18) for connecting the upper component (10) and the lower component (12), wherein the connecting elements (18) are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal extension (8) of the wiper blade (2) and are arranged on the upper component (10) and/or the lower component (12) by means of a swivel joint (20), wherein the connecting elements (18) are designed to enable a movement of the upper component (10) and the lower component (12) relative to one another with a movement component along the longitudinal extension (8) of the wiper blade (2); and

at least one stabilizing means (110, 210) made of a second material, the at least one stabilizing means (110, 210) being at least partially enclosed by the first material,

wherein the at least one stabilizing means (110, 210) comprises at least one cover element (410) which can be placed onto at least one of the plurality of connecting elements (18), and wherein the at least one cover element (410) at least partially covers a region between the longitudinally extending upper part (10) and the longitudinally extending lower part (12).

2. A windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 1, wherein said vehicle is a motor vehicle.

3. A windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said second material comprises metal and/or carbon.

4. A windscreen wiper device (100, 300, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one stabilizing element (110) comprises a flat strip.

5. A windscreen wiper device (100, 300, 400) according to claim 4, wherein said at least one stabilizing element (110) comprises a metal strip or an organic sheet.

6. A windscreen wiper device (200, 300, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one stabilizing element (210) comprises reinforcing fibers.

7. A windscreen wiper device (200, 300, 400) according to claim 6, wherein said reinforcing fibers comprise carbon fibers and/or glass fibers.

8. A windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one stabilizing device (110, 210) is at least partially injection-coated with a first material.

9. A windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one stabilizing element (110, 210) is at least partially embedded in the first material.

10. A windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said first material is selected from the group consisting of: acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyamide (PA), polylactic acid (PLA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), Polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

11. A windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a wiper blade side fastening part (30) arranged for connection with a fastening element on a vehicle.

12. A windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to claim 11, wherein said at least one stabilizing element (110, 210) is arranged in a region of said wiper blade side fastening part.

13. A windscreen wiper device (100, 300, 400) according to claim 12, wherein said at least one stabilizing element (110) has a recess (112) in the region of said wiper blade-side fastening part, wherein said recess (112) is provided for the passage of said fastening element on the vehicle.

14. A windscreen wiper device (300) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising at least one spoiler (310) arranged on said longitudinally extending upper part (10).

15. A windscreen wiper device (300) according to claim 14, wherein said at least one spoiler (310) has a cross-section substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal extension (8), and wherein the cross-section is symmetrical or asymmetrical.

16. A windscreen wiper device (300) according to claim 15, wherein said cross-section substantially has an angled or concave section.

17. Method for manufacturing a windscreen wiper device (100, 200, 300, 400) according to any of the claims 1 through 16, comprising injection coating said at least one stabilizing element (110, 210) with said first material.