RU2416536C1 - Device to joint window wiper flat brush with window wiper levers - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: transport. ^ SUBSTANCE: invention relates to machine building, particularly, to joint between window wiper levers and brushes. Proposed joint comprises: fastener jointed to window wiper flat brusher frame, bracket latched to said fastener, and adapter arranged on said bracket. Bracket has hinge bored pin passing perpendicular to frame length. Adapter has two lateral walls. Said walls have mounting cutouts. Adapter is arranged on said bracket to that hinge both ends fit in mounting holes. Adapter is configured to comply with window wiper lever far ends. Fastener joints one flat brush with different levers of window wiper. ^ EFFECT: reliable joint between flat brush and lever. ^ 10 cl, 58 dwg

Description

Technical field

The present invention relates to a device configured to be mounted on a wiper blade for removably connecting a wiper blade to a wiper arm. In particular, the present description relates to a device for removably connecting a flat wiper blade to various types of wiper arms.

State of the art

Cars are equipped with a wiper device for cleaning the surface of the windshield. Typically, a wiper device includes a drive motor, a wiper arm, and a wiper blade located on the surface of the windshield.

The drive motor works to create a reciprocating motion. The wiper arm is connected to the rotating shaft of the drive motor with its support end. The wiper blade is removably connected to the distal end of the wiper arm. At the far end of the wiper arm is a component for pressing the far end of the wiper arm to the windshield. Thus, the wiper blade is adjacent to the surface of the windshield under the action of the pressing force of the wiper arm and cleans the surface of the windshield, sliding on it with a rotary reciprocating motion created by the drive motor.

The wiper blade, in a typical embodiment, has an elongated cleaning strip that comes into contact with the surface of the windshield, and a frame component for attaching along it and holding the cleaning strip on it. The frame component may include a unit having a plurality of levers.

Recently, wiper blades have been used, with which one frame is used, having a flat and elongated strip shape, as a frame component. Such a wiper blade is known in the art as a “flat wiper blade” or “wiper blade”. A flat wiper blade not only reduces the overall height of the wiper device, but also has a cleaning strip that comes into contact with the surface of the windshield with a uniform or constant load.

The flat wiper blade can be connected to the wiper arms through a connecting device that is installed in the middle section of the frame. The connecting device is adapted for the distal end of the wiper arm. Wiper arm manufacturers offer their own wiper arms for flat wiper blades on the market. Also, wiper arm manufacturers or wiper device manufacturers offer various connecting devices that are configured to be suitable for wiper blade arms on the market. Accordingly, various wiper arms for flat wiper blades and various connecting devices adapted for wiper arms are known in the art.

Figures 1-6 show examples of various conventional wiper arms for flat wiper blades.

The wiper arms 1, 1 ′ shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 are configured so that their distal ends have a receiving section, concave parts located on the rear side of the receiving section, and a tongue extending from the front side of the receiving section. These wiper arms are known in the art as “top wiper arms” or “wiper arms with clamping tongue”. Korean Published Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-2005-0085129 and Korean Published Patent Laid-open Application No. 10-2005-0007446 describe an example of a connection between a flat wiper blade and a wiper arm with a locking top, in which the connecting device supports the tongue and engages with a snap with concave parts.

The wiper arm 2 shown in FIG. 3 is configured so that its distal end has a hook shape. This wiper arm is known in the art as a “wiper arm”. The wiper hook is also used for the wiper blade including a frame component comprising a lever assembly. Korean Published Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-2005-0033046 describes an example of a connection between a flat wiper blade and a hook-shaped wiper arm in which a hook-shaped portion located at a distal end of the wiper arm 2 and a connecting device are connected by resilient engagement between them.

The wiper arm 3 shown in FIG. 4 is configured so that its far end forms a space for insertion. This wiper arm is known in the art as a “wiper bayonet arm”. Korean Patent No. 10-725988 describes an example of a connection between a wiper blade and a wiper bayonet lever in which a connecting device is inserted into the insertion space for connection with a wiper arm.

The wiper arm 4 shown in FIG. 5 is configured so that its distal end portion has a side pin and a clamping branch protruding to the wiper arm 4. This wiper arm is known in the art as “side wiper arm”, “side wiper arm” or “sliding wiper arm”. Korean Published Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-2008-0059225 describes an example of a connection between a wiper blade and a wiper arm with side locking, in which the side pin 41 passes through the tubular component of the connecting device and the clamping branch 42 engages with a snap into the connecting device.

The wiper arm 5 of FIG. 6 is configured so that its distal end has a finger 51 perpendicularly extending from it and an annular groove 52 is formed in the finger 51. This wiper arm is known in the art as a “wiper arm with a finger”. The wiper arm with a finger is also used for the wiper blade, which includes a frame component containing a lever assembly. The wiper arm with a finger can be connected to the connecting device by engagement between the finger 51, the annular groove 52 and the connecting device.

As described above, the wiper arms 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, 5 shown in FIGS. 1-6 can be connected to the wiper blade using only a connecting device configured to match the shape of the distal end of each wiper arm. That is, various types of connecting devices must be prepared according to the shapes of the distal ends of the wiper arms. As a result, various connecting devices must exist, each of which is only suitable for the specific shape of one wiper arm.

In addition, manufacturers of such connecting devices must design and develop various connecting devices, each of which is suitable for only one wiper arm. This is obviously disadvantageous due to the large number of parts that make up the connecting device, which thus creates difficulties in development and maintenance while increasing production and marketing costs. On the other hand, users or consumers should select a specific connecting device that is configured to match the distal end of the wiper arm mounted on their own car. This is also disadvantageous, as they may encounter difficulty and inconvenience in choosing the proper connecting device. Accordingly, there is a need for a connecting device for a flat wiper blade and wiper arms that can be used with various types of wiper arms.

In addition, in the case of conventional connecting devices described in Korean Patent Laid-open Publication Nos. 10-2005-0085129 and 10-2005-0007446, a pair of elongated strip portions of the connecting devices are latched into engagement with concave portions 14a, 14b, 14a ', 14b 'of the wiper arm 1, 1'. However, the engagement between these strip parts and the concave parts may be weak due to the configuration of the strip parts. That is, when the wiper blade is reciprocated by the wiper arm, the strip parts can bend into the wiper blade, thereby causing a problem of loose engagement between the strip parts and the concave parts. In addition, since the strip portions protrude backward from the connecting device, the strip portions can be bent and broken during transport or assembly.

In addition, in the case of the conventional connecting device described in Korean Patent Laid-open Publication No. 10-2008-0059225, the side pin 51 is not able to rotate smoothly relative to the connecting device. Thus, the flat wiper blade cannot be in close contact with the surface of the windshield when adapting to the curvature of the surface of the windshield.

As indicated above, with conventional connecting devices, there is a problem in that a strong connection between the wiper blade and the wiper arm is not achieved. In addition, it cannot be ensured that the flat wiper blade rotates smoothly. Accordingly, there is an obvious need for a connecting device that provides smooth rotation of the wiper blade when the wiper blade is firmly connected to the wiper arm.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Received various embodiments of the device for connecting a flat wiper blade with wiper arms. In one typical embodiment of the invention, as a non-limiting example, a device is obtained for connecting a flat wiper blade to various wiper arms. The device with the possibility of detachment connects the flat wiper blade 9, 9 'with the wiper arm 1, 1', 2, 3, 4, having one of the following components: the first connecting component 10, 10 ', including the upper plate 11, 11' and a pair of concave parts 14a, 14b, 14a ', 14b'; a second connecting component 20 including a hook portion 21; a third connecting component 30 including an upper plate 31 and a pair of side plates 32a, 32b; and a fourth connecting component 40, including a side pin 41 and a clamping branch 42. The device includes a connector 110, 210, an arm 120, 220 and an adapter 130, 230. The connector is connected to the wiper blade 9b, 9b ′ of the wiper blade. The bracket is mounted on the connector. The bracket includes the following: a pair of spaced apart vertical wall portions 122a, 122b, 222a, 222b; and a hinge axis 123, 223 located on the upper part of the vertical wall parts and having a hinge hole 123a, 223a formed therein. The adapter 130, 230 includes the following: a pair of side wall portions 131, 132, 231, 232 having mounting holes 134a, 134b, 234a, 234b formed therein, respectively; and a first lateral connection 133a, 233a connecting the side wall portions to each other and located in front of the mounting holes. The adapter is rotatably mounted on the bracket when both ends of the hinge axis are inserted into the mounting holes. The adapter further includes: a first locking device 131d, 132d, 140, 142a, 142b, 231e, 232e, 240, 242a for positioning the concave portion of the first connecting component relative to the side wall portion and securing the upper plate of the first connecting component to the side wall parts; a second locking device 131a, 132a, 136a, 136b, 231a, 232a, 236a, 236b for locking the hook-shaped portion of the second connecting component between the side wall portions relative to the first transverse connection; and guides 137a, 137b, 237a, 237b formed on the outer surfaces of the side wall portions and configured to be inserted between the side plates of the third connecting component. The lateral pin of the fourth connecting component can be inserted into the hinge hole and can be rotated therein.

In another typical embodiment of the invention, as a non-limiting example, a device for connecting a flat wiper blade to wiper arms is provided. The device with the ability to disconnect connects a flat wiper blade 9, 9 'with a wiper arm 1, 1', 2, 3, 4, 5, having one of the following: a first connecting component 10, 10 'including a tongue 13, 13' and a pair of concave parts 14a, 14b, 14a ', 14b'; a second connecting component 20 including a hook portion 21; a third connecting component 30 including an upper plate 31 and a pair of side plates 32a, 32b; a fourth connecting component 40, including a lateral pin 41 and a clamping branch 42; and a fifth connecting component 50, including a finger 51 and an annular groove 52 made in the finger. The device includes a connector 210, an arm 220, and an adapter 230. The connector is connected to a wiper blade frame 9b, 9b ′. The bracket is mounted on the connector. The bracket includes the following: a pair of spaced apart vertical wall parts 222a, 222b; and a hinge axis 223 located on the upper part of the vertical wall parts and having a hinge hole 223a formed therein. The adapter includes: a pair of side wall portions 231, 232 having mounting holes 234a, 234b formed therein, respectively; a first transverse connection 233a connecting the side wall portions to each other and located in front of the mounting holes; and a second lateral connection 233b connecting the side wall portions to each other and located rear of the mounting holes. The adapter can be pivotally mounted on the bracket when both ends of the hinge axis are inserted into the mounting holes. The adapter further includes the following: a first locking device 235a, 235b, 235c for positioning the concave portion of the first connecting component relative to the side wall portion and locking the tongue of the first connecting component relative to the side wall parts; a second locking device 231a, 232a, 236a, 236b for locking the hook-shaped portion of the second connecting component between the side wall portions relative to the first transverse connection; guides 237a, 237b formed on the outer surfaces of the side wall portions and configured to fit a third connecting component between the side plates; a locking lever 237e extending from the rear end of one of the side wall portions and configured to resiliently engage with the rear end of one of the side plates of the third connecting component; and a fifth locking device 238a, 238b, 238c for securing the finger of the fifth connecting component laterally to the side wall portions and fixing the annular groove of the fifth connecting component relative to the side wall portions. The lateral pin of the fourth connecting component can be inserted into the hinge hole and can be rotated therein.

A brief description of the invention is provided to provide a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are further described below in the detailed description of the invention. This brief description is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter and is not intended to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The devices and embodiments of the invention can be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference position refers to similar components and in which:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a conventional wiper arm with upper lock;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing another conventional wiper arm with an upper lock; FIG.

3 is a perspective view showing a conventional hook-shaped wiper arm;

4 is a perspective view showing a conventional wiper bayonet lever;

5 is a perspective view showing a conventional wiper arm with side locking;

6 is a perspective view showing a conventional wiper arm with a finger;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a connecting device for a flat wiper blade and wiper arms according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention in accordance with the present invention;

Fig.8 is a perspective view showing the connector of Fig.7;

Fig.9 is a front view showing one half-profile of the connector of Fig.8;

10 is a front view showing another half profile of the connector of FIG. 8;

11 is a side view showing an assembled connector;

12 is a perspective view showing the bracket c of FIG. 7;

Fig.13 is a perspective view with a longitudinal section of the bracket of Fig.12;

Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a connector and bracket assembly;

FIG. 15 is a partial sectional view of a connector assembly and an arm of FIG. 14;

Fig.16 is a perspective view showing the adapter of Fig.7;

Fig.17 is a perspective view showing the inside of the adapter of Fig.16;

Fig. 18 is a plan view of the adapter of Fig. 16;

Fig.19 is a side view of the adapter shown in Fig.16;

Fig.20 is a perspective view showing the inside of the coating of Fig.7;

Fig.21 is a side view of the coating shown in Fig.20;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing a bracket, adapter, and coating assembly; FIG.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a flat wiper blade and an upper locking wiper arm using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention; FIG.

24 is a perspective view showing how the flat wiper blade and the upper wiper arm are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

25 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a flat wiper blade and another wiper arm with an upper lock using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and another upper wiper arm are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention; FIG.

Fig. 27 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a flat wiper blade and a hook-shaped wiper arm using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 28 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and a hook-shaped wiper arm are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 29 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a wiper blade and a wiper bayonet using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

30 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and a wiper bayonet lever are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 31 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a wiper blade and a wiper arm with side locking using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

32 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and a side wiper arm are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 33 is a perspective view with a spatial separation of parts, showing a connecting device for a flat wiper blade and wiper arms according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 34 is a perspective view showing the connector of Fig. 33;

Fig. 35 is a side view of the connector shown in Fig. 34;

Fig. 36 is a perspective view showing the bracket of Fig. 33;

Fig. 37 is a perspective view in longitudinal section of the bracket of Fig. 36;

Fig. 38 is a perspective view showing a connector and bracket assembly;

Fig. 39 is a perspective view showing the adapter of Fig. 33;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view showing the inside of the adapter of FIG. 39;

Fig - top view of the adapter shown in Fig;

Fig. 42 is a side view of the adapter of Fig. 39;

Fig. 43 is a perspective view showing the inside of the coating of Fig. 33;

Fig. 44 is a side view of the coating shown in Fig. 43;

Fig. 45 is a perspective view showing a connector assembly, an arm, an adapter, and a cover;

Fig. 46 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a flat wiper blade and an upper locking wiper arm using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 47 is a partial enlarged view illustrating the connection between the articulated protrusion and the concave portion of the first connecting component;

Fig. 48 is a perspective view showing how the flat wiper blade and the upper wiper arm are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 49 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a flat wiper blade and another upper wiper arm using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 50 is a partial enlarged view illustrating the connection between the hinge protrusion and the concave portion of the first connecting component;

51 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and another upper wiper arm are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 52 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a flat wiper blade and a hook-shaped wiper arm using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 53 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and a hook-shaped wiper arm are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 54 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between a wiper blade and a wiper bayonet using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

55 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and a wiper bayonet lever are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

56 is a perspective view showing a typical connection operation between the wiper blade and the wiper arm with side locking using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 57 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and a side wiper arm are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention; and

Fig. 58 is a perspective view showing how a flat wiper blade and a wiper arm with a finger are connected to each other using a connecting device according to a second embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A detailed description can be given with reference to the accompanying drawings. One skilled in the art will understand that the following description is illustrative only and does not introduce any limitations. Other illustrative embodiments of the invention may be readily contemplated by those skilled in the art who benefit from this description.

As used herein, the term “forward” generally refers to a direction toward the distal end of a wiper arm, while the term “back” generally refers to a direction opposite to a forward direction. In addition, the term “up” or “upper” as used herein generally refers to the direction of the wiper arm in the wiper arm and flat wiper blade assembly, while the term “down” or “lower” generally refers to the direction opposite to up.

A device for connecting a flat wiper blade to wiper arms (also referred to simply as a “connecting device”) according to typical embodiments of the present invention can be designed for use with various types of wiper arms. In particular, the connecting device may include an adapter configured for removable connection with all connecting components located on the distal end parts of the wiper arms.

With reference to FIGS. 1-6, the wiper arms 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, 5 and the first to fifth connecting components 10, 10 ′, 20, 30, 40, 50 located at their distal ends will be described first. for which a connecting device according to the present invention can be used.

The first connecting component 10 may include an upper plate 11 and a pair of side plates 12a, 12b extending from both side edges of the upper plate 11, thereby forming a generally U-shaped configuration and forming a space into which an adapter can be inserted. The upper plate 11 may come into contact with the upper side of the adapter, while the side plates 12a, 12b may face the sides of the adapter. In addition, the first connecting component 10 includes the following: a tongue 13 extending from the front end of the upper plate 11; and concave portions 14a, 14b formed so that the rear end portions of the side plates 12a, 12b are partially cut out or the rear end portions of the side plates 12a, 12b are partially cut up.

The other first connecting component 10 'can be configured like the first connecting component 10, except that a cutout 11a' is made in the upper plate 11 ', another tongue 15' extends from the edge of the cutout 11a 'and the concave sections 14a', 14b 'are formed with right angle. Another example of the first connecting component 10 'may not include the specified other tab 15'.

The second connecting component 20 may include a hook-shaped portion 21, generally 180 degrees bent, and an elongated portion 22 extending back from the hook-shaped portion 21 substantially parallel to the wiper arm 3. The hook portion 21 may have an outer surface 21a, which is the outer side of the convex curved configuration, and an inner surface 21b, which is the inner side of the convex curved configuration.

The third connecting component 30 may include a top plate 31 and side plates 32a, 32b vertically extending from both side edges of the top plate 31, thereby forming a generally U-shaped configuration and forming a space into which an adapter can be inserted. The upper plate 31 may have a slot 31 extending therethrough. In addition, the third connecting component 30 may include a locking portion 33a, 33b extending inward from the lower edge of each of the side plates 32a, 32b. The locking parts 33a, 33b may be located in the rear parts of the side plates 32a, 32b.

The fourth connecting component 40 may include a lateral pin 41, perpendicular to the far end of the wiper arm 4, and a clamping branch 42 extending adjacent to and parallel to the lateral pin 41. The clamping branch 42 may include a locking section 42a and a clamping section 42b extending from the distal end of the locking section 42a as bent downward from it.

The fifth connecting component 50 may include a finger 51, perpendicularly extending from the far end of the wiper arm 5, and an annular groove 52 formed in the middle section of the finger 51 and having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the finger 51.

The connecting device according to the present invention can be adapted to detachably connect a flat wiper blade with a wiper arm 1, 1 ', 2, 3, 4, 5, which has one of the differently configured first to fifth connecting components 10, 10 ', 20, 30, 40, 50 at its far end, using the specified adapter or its other component except the adapter. To this end, the connecting device in accordance with the present invention may include first to fifth locking devices for performing locking operations for the first to fifth connecting components, respectively. The first and fifth locking devices can only be used in the adapter or used in the adapter and other components except the adapter in combination.

The first locking device may be used in the adapter. The first locking device may perform a locking operation by hanging and snapping between the adapter and the first connecting component 10, 10 '.

A second locking device may be used in the adapter. The second locking device may perform a locking operation by engagement and snapping between the adapter and the second connecting component 20.

A third locking device may be used in the adapter. The third locking device may perform a locking operation by inserting and seating between the adapter and the third connecting component 30.

A fourth locking device may be used in the adapter and component to swivel the adapter with it. The fourth locking device may perform an insertion and rotation locking operation between the connecting device and the fourth connecting component 40.

A fifth locking device may be used in the adapter. The fifth locking device can perform an insertion and snap locking operation between the adapter and the fifth connecting component 50.

7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a connecting device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention in accordance with the present invention. A connecting device 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention can detachably connect a wiper blade to a wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4 having one of a first to fourth connecting components at its distal end. In addition, the connecting device 100 may include first to fourth locking devices for making a removable connection.

In one embodiment, the connecting device 100 may include the following: a connector 110 connected to a wiper blade 9; a bracket 120 mounted by snapping on the connector 110, an adapter 130 mounted on the bracket 120; and a cover 140 pivotally coupled to a front end of the adapter 130.

The wiper blade 9 may include: a cleaning strip 9a configured to come into contact with the surface of the windshield; and a frame 9b for attaching and holding the cleaning strip 9a along and on it. The cleaning strip 9a may be made, for example, of a rubber material. The cleaning strip 9a includes an end portion having a triangular section and placed in contact with the surface of the windshield. The frame 9b may be made of metal or plastic material and may be in the form of a thin and elongated rail. The cleaning strip 9a may be attached to the frame 9b by insertion into a groove (not shown) formed along the frame 9b in the direction of its length. The frame 9b may be bent or bent with a certain radius of curvature, as shown in Fig.7. Furthermore, a substantially linear frame (e.g., frame 9b 'shown in FIG. 33) can be used as the specified frame for the cleaning strip.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a connector. The connector 110 may be connected to the wiper blade 9b of the wiper blade 9 to connect the wiper blade 9 to the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, 5. The connector 110 may be located in the middle section of the frame 9b and attached to it.

In one embodiment, connector 110 may include the following: a first half-profile 110a attached to one edge of the chassis 9b; and a second half-profile 110b attached to the opposite edge of the frame 9b. The first half profile 110a and the second half profile 110b can be connected to each other by holding or securing the frame 9b between them. Figures 9 and 10 are front views showing each half profile, respectively. 11 is a side view showing the assembled connector 110. The connector 110 will be further described with reference to FIGS.

The first half-profile 110a may have a half-profile body 111a. The second half-profile 110b may have a half-profile body 111b. The connector 110 may include a mounting component located on one of the half profiles, and an engaging component located on the other half profile and configured to mesh with a mounting component for connecting both half profiles 110a, 110b. In one embodiment, the fastening component in the first half-profile 110a can be applied to the receiving part 112a, having an inverted U-shaped configuration, and an engaging notch 113a in the upper side of the receiving part 112a. In addition, in one embodiment of the invention of the engaging component in the second half profile 110b, an elastic insertion branch 112b and an engaging protrusion 113b can be used that extend at the free end of the insertion branch 112b. The insertion branch 112b is located at the upper end of the base 114b formed in the middle 111b of the half-profile body. The insertion branch 112b is inserted into the receiving portion 112a, and the engaging protrusion 113b is resiliently inserted into the engaging notch 113, thereby connecting the first half-profile 110a and the second half-profile 110b to each other. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 11, since the receiving portion 112a is detached from the half-profile body 111a and the insertion branch 112b is located at the upper end of the base 114b, the second half-profile 110b body 111b is lower than the first half-profile body 111a when they are connected.

Connector 110 may include a mounting component to allow half-profiles to connect and prevent relative movement between them when half-profiles 110a, 110b are connected to each other. In one embodiment of the installation component, the first mating portion 115a, 115b may be applied at the front ends of the first and second half profiles 110a, 110b, while the second mating portion 116a, 116b may be applied at the rear ends of the first and second half profiles 110a, 110b. In the shown embodiment, one first mating portion 115b includes a vertically projecting protrusion 117b ', while the other first mating portion 115a includes a groove 117a' therein into which the protrusion 117b 'is inserted. In addition, one second mating portion 116b includes a horizontally extending protrusion 117b ″, while the other second mating portion 116a includes a groove 117a ″ into which the protrusion 117b ″ is inserted. The lower sides of the first mating parts 115a, 115b and the second mating parts 116a, 116b are concave upward so that a part of the cleaning strip 9a located on the frame 9b can be placed therein.

The connector 110 may include a carcass holding support 118a, 118b for securing to them both edges of the carcass 9b by seating or engaging, and carcass holding protrusions 118c that extend inwardly from them. At the lower ends of the half-profiles 110a, 110b, frame support legs 118a, 118b are arranged. In the shown embodiment, the carcass holding support 118a extends downward from the lower end of the first half-profile 110a, and the carcass holding protrusions 118c are formed at both ends thereof. In addition, the carcass holding support 118b extends downward from the lower end of the second half profile 110a, and carcass holding protrusions 118c are formed at both ends thereof. The upper surfaces of the carcass holding protrusions 118c and the lower surfaces of the first and second half profiles 110a, 110b are curved to match the curvature of the carcass 9b. The frame 9b may be held between opposing half profiles 110a, 110b and between the lower surfaces of the half profiles 110a, 110b and the upper surfaces of the frame holding protrusions 118c when the half profiles 110a, 110b are connected to each other. Alternatively, the frame 9b may be attached to the connector 110 by inserting in the direction of its length between the frame holding supports 118a, 118b of the assembled connector 110.

12 is a perspective view showing the bracket 120. The bracket 120 can be located on the connector 110 and can be mounted on it by means of a snap connection.

In one embodiment, the bracket 120 may include the following: a base 121 configured so that it substantially covers the connector 110; a pair of vertical wall portions 122a, 122b vertically standing on the base 121; and a hinge axis 123 located on the upper side of the vertical wall portions 122a, 122b.

The hinge axis 123 can serve as the swing axis of the wiper blade assembly 9 and the wiper arm 1, 1 ', 2, 3, 4. The hinge axis 123 is located on the upper side of the vertical wall portions 122a, 122b with an orientation substantially perpendicular to the length direction of the chassis 9b. The hinge axis 123 may be hollow to form a hinge hole 123a passing therethrough. The hinge hole 123a may be involved in connecting the wiper blade 9 to the wiper arm 4 having a fourth connecting component 40 at its distal end. Both lateral ends of the hinge axis 123 protrude slightly outward from the vertical wall portions 122a, 122b. Both lateral ends of the hinge axis 123 have inclined portions 123d that are inclined inward to facilitate installation of the adapter 130.

13 is a perspective view showing the inside of the bracket. Figures 14 and 15 show an assembled assembly of a connector and an arm.

12-15, the bracket 120 may have a mounting component for the mounting bracket 120 when the bracket 120 is connected to the connector 110. In one embodiment of the mounting component, a protruding portion 121d and a side of the rear end of the base are formed on the front end side of the base 121. 121, an angled wall portion 121c is formed. In addition, at the lower ends of the vertical wall portions 122a, 122b, there are two cross members 121a, 121b having an inverted U-shaped section. The protruding portion 121d is configured so that its lower surface corresponds to the upper surface of the second mating portion 116a, 116b. Thus, when the bracket 120 is mounted on the connector 110, the second mating portion 116a, 116b is inserted inside the protruding portion 121d. In addition, the protruding portion 121d may lie between the front sides of the side wall portions 131, 132 of the adapter 130 and prevent the adapter 130 from vibrating in the transverse direction relative to the hinge axis 123. The angled wall portion 121c is located on the sides of the rear ends of the vertical wall portions 122a, 122b. The angled wall portion is formed so that it comes into contact with the upper and rear surfaces of the first mating portion 115a, 115b. The crossbars 121a, 121b are arranged so that they are on two sides of the receiving portion 112a when the bracket 120 is mounted on the connector 110.

The bracket 120 may include a snap component to provide snap engagement with the connector 110. In one embodiment of the snap component, the wedge-shaped snap protrusions 121e protrude inward from both lower side edges of the base 121 (see FIG. 15). Two snap-in protrusions are formed in each lateral lower edge of the base 121. The snap-in protrusions engage with the half-profile bodies of the connector between the two frame-holding protrusions 118c. When the bracket 120 is placed against the connector 110 through the mounting component 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d and then pressed against the connector 110, the snap tabs 121e engage with the half-profile bodies of the connector 110 when parts of the base 121 having the snap tab 121e are bent or deformed outward and then spring back inside.

16 is a perspective view showing an adapter. 17 is a perspective view showing the inside of the adapter. On Fig shows a top view of the adapter. On Fig shows a side view of the adapter.

As shown in FIGS. 16-19, in one embodiment, the adapter 130 may include a pair of side wall portions 131, 132; and first to fourth lateral joints 133a, 133b, 133c, 133d connecting the side wall portions 131, 132 to each other. A section of the bracket 120 including the hinge axis 123 may be located between the side wall portions 131, 132. In addition, the protruding portion 121d located on the front side of the base 121 of the bracket 120 may be between the front sides of the side wall portions 131, 132. Fourth transverse connection 133d, which may have a curved U-shape, may be located between the rear sides of the side wall portions 131, 132. If the adapter 130 is mounted on the bracket 120, the protruding portion 121d and the fourth transverse soy The extension 133d can prevent the adapter 130 from vibrating in the transverse direction relative to the hinge axis 123.

The mounting holes 134a, 134b are formed through the side wall portions 131, 132, respectively. Both side ends 123b, 123c can be inserted into the mounting holes 134a, 134b, respectively. The distance between the inner surfaces of the side wall portions 131, 132 is slightly greater than the distance between the outer surfaces of the vertical wall portions 122a, 122b. Furthermore, the distance between the inner surfaces of the side wall portions 131, 132 is set so that the tongue 13, 13 ′ of the first connecting component 10, 10 ′ and the hook-shaped portion 21 of the second connecting component 20 can be inserted between the side wall parts 131, 132. When the adapter 130 are mounted on the bracket 120, the hinge axis 123 comes into contact with the lower edges of the side wall parts 131, 132 by the inclined parts 123d of both of its side ends. When the adapter 130 is pressed against the bracket 120, both side ends of the hinge axis 123 enter the mounting holes 134a, 134b, while the side wall parts 131, 132 are elastically bent or deformed outward with respect to the adapter 130. In this case, if the side ends of the axis 123 the hinges are fully inserted into the mounting holes 134a, 134b, the side wall portions 131, 132 are resiliently returned and thus the lateral ends of the hinge axis 123 and their corresponding mounting holes 134a, 134b are mating with each other. When the adapter 130 is fully mounted on the bracket 120, the outer surfaces of the side wall portions 131, 132 and the outer edges of both side ends of the hinge axis 123 are substantially flush with each other.

As described above, the adapter 130 can be mounted on the bracket 120 by pressing against the bracket 120 and, thus, snap engagement. The hinge axis 123 is oriented perpendicular to the chassis 9b, and the wiper arms are connected to the adapter 130 parallel to the chassis 9b. Thus, when the wiper blade 9 is connected to the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, they can both rotate relatively clockwise or counterclockwise around the hinge axis 123 within a certain angular range. Accordingly, when the wiper blade 9 is moved on the windshield surface by the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, the wiper blade 9 can be placed in close contact with the windshield surface in accordance with the curvature of the windshield surface.

The first lateral connection 133a is located in front of the mounting holes 134a, 134b. The front surface of the first transverse joint 133a is rounded so that the inner surface 21b of the hook portion 21 of the second connecting component 20 can be fitted onto it. The second lateral connection 133b is located rear of the mounting holes 134a, 134b. A third transverse connection 133c is located at the front ends of the side wall portions 131, 132. In the illustrated embodiment, the third transverse connection 133c includes a tubular member with its both side ends open. Cutouts 131c, 132c located at the lateral ends of the third lateral joint 133c serve to swivel the cover 140, as will be described below. A fourth lateral connection 133d is located at the rear ends of the side wall portions 131c, 132c and is generally U-shaped. Thus, a gap or space is formed between the side surfaces of the fourth transverse connection 133d and the inner surfaces of the side wall portions 131 132. A portion of the rear side of the vertical wall portions 122a, 122b can be inserted into the specified gap or space when the adapter 130 is mounted on the bracket 120.

The inner side of the coating is shown in FIG. On Fig shows a side view of the coating. On Fig shows the node bracket, adapter and cover.

The coating 140 may serve to facilitate or participate in locking operations between the first and second connecting components 10, 10 ′, 20 and the adapter 130. In addition, the coating 140 serves to close or hide the distal end of the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2 and partially the adapter 130. As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, in one embodiment of the invention, the coating has a generally U-shaped configuration. The coating 140 includes an upper plate 141c placed over the upper edges of the side wall portions 131, 132, and a pair of side plates 141a, 141b facing the side wall portions 131.6 132, respectively. The gap between the side plates 141a, 141b is set so that the side plates 12a, 12b, 12a ', 12b' of the first connecting element are between them with a slight backlash. The pivot pins 143a, 143b for pivoting the cover 240 with the adapter 130 protrude inward from the front end of the cover 140 (i.e., from the front ends of the side plates 141a, 141b). Hinge pins 143a, 143b fit into holes 131c, 132c formed at both lateral ends of the third lateral joint 133c. To facilitate seating, the pivot pins 143a, 143b have inclined portions on their lower sides. The coating 140 can be easily connected to the adapter 130 by contacting the pivot pins 143a, 143b with both lateral ends of the third transverse joints 133c and pushing it inside the adapter 130.

Coating 140 may be configured to rotate toward and lock relative to adapter 130. To this end, in one embodiment of the invention, the coating 140 has locking protrusions 142a, 142b on the lower inner sides of the side plates 141a, 141b. Accordingly, the adapter 130 has locking plates 131d, 132d (see FIG. 18) with which the locking protrusions 142a, 142b snap into engagement when the cover 140 is fully rotated onto the adapter 130. The locking plates 131d, 132d extend parallel to the respective side wall portions 131. 132 from the retaining walls 131e, 132e, which are formed in the corresponding side wall portion 131, 132 in front of the mounting holes 143a, 143b. The distal ends of the locking plates 131d, 132d comprise free ends. Thus, the locking plates 131d, 132d are resiliently flexible in the direction of the side wall portions 131, 132. The locking plates 131d, 132d have inclined parts at their distal ends that come in contact with the locking protrusions 142a, 142b, and curved locking plates 131d, 132d bend toward the side wall portions while lowering the locking protrusions 142a, 142b. The locking protrusions 142a, 142b engage with the lower edges of the locking plates 131d, 132d, thereby locking the cover 140 on the adapter 130. The engagement position between the locking protrusions 142a, 142b and the locking plates 131d, 132d is set so that the upper plate 11, 11 ′ of the first the connecting component 10, 10 'or the rear section of the second connecting component 20 can be inserted between the lower surface of the upper plate 141a of the coating 140 and the upper edges of the side wall parts 131, 132 with little or no clearance.

The adapter 130 includes coating stoppers 131g, 132g to limit the rotation of the coating 140 with the locking plates 131d, 132d. Stoppers 131g, 132g of the coating may be in the form of a hemisphere. Concave portions 145a are formed on the lower edges of the side plates 141a, 141b in accordance with the stoppers 131g, 132g of the coating. The cover stoppers 131e, 132d and the concave portions 145a are configured such that when the cover 140 is turned towards the adapter 130 and the cover stoppers 131g, 132g come into contact with the concave portions 145a, the locking protrusions 142a, 142b engage with the locking plates 131d, 132d and hold the protrusions 144a, 144b are adjacent to the stepped parts 131h, 132h of the clamping plates 131a, 132a.

The adapter 130 has coating-holding protrusions 131f, 132f to prevent vibrations of the coating 140 when the coating 140 is closed. The coating holding protrusions 131f, 132f are located at the lower edges of the side wall portions 131, 132 (e.g., at the stop portions 137c, 137d). The coating holding protrusions 131f, 132f are spaced from the outer surfaces of the side wall portions 131, 132 with a predetermined clearance (for example, spaced from the rails 137a, 137b with a predetermined clearance). As shown in FIG. 22, when the cover 140 is closed and locked on the adapter 130, the lower sides of the side wall portions 141a, 141b of the cover 140 are seated between the cover holding protrusions 131f, 132f and the guides 137a, 137b. Thus, vibrations of the coating 140 can be prevented.

In a first exemplary embodiment, the first locking device may include the following: a positioning device for the concave portions 14a, 14b, 14a ', 14b' of the first connecting component 10, 10 'for mounting relative to the side wall portions 131, 132 so that the adapter 130 can rotate relative to the first connecting component 10, 10 '; and a mounting device for the upper plates 11, 11 ′ of the first connecting component 10, 10 ′ on the side wall portions 131, 132.

The positioning device may include articulated protrusions 135c, 135d extending outward from the respective rear ends of the side wall portions 131, 132. The articulated protrusions 135c, 135d are configured to be inserted into the concave portions 14a, 14b, 14a ', 14b'. The hinge tabs 135c, 135d may be in the form of a triangle with a rounded angle.

The fastening device is configured to fix the upper plates 11, 11 ′ relative to the side wall portions 131, 132. In one embodiment of the invention, the fastening device includes the following: an installation component onto which the upper plate 11, 11 ′ is mounted; the coating 140 and a coating locking device for locking the coating 140 on the adapter 130. In the shown embodiment, the mounting component is the upper edges or upper surfaces 135a, 135b of the side wall portions 131, 132. In addition, the coating locking device includes locking protrusions 142a, 142b located inside relative to the side plates 141a, 141c and the locking plates 131d, 132d located on the respective side wall portions 131, 132, so that they engage in snap-fit with the locking by projections 142a, 142b, when the cover 140 is fully rotated to the adapter 130. Another embodiment of the coating fixing device may include wedge-shaped protrusions that are formed on the outer surfaces of the side wall portions 131, 132 so that they mutually engage with the locking protrusions 142a, 142b .

In a first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the second locking device may include a pair of second locking protrusions 136a, 136b located on the inner surfaces of the side wall portions 131, 132 adjacent to the first transverse connections 133a. The second locking protrusions 136a, 136b are wedge-shaped, whereby the hook-shaped portion 21 of the second connecting component 21 can be easily inserted between the second locking protrusions. The inclined surfaces of the second locking protrusions face the front of the adapter 130, while its engaging surfaces face the rear surface of the adapter 130. The gap between the engagement surfaces of the second locking protrusions 136a, 136b and the front surface of the first transverse connection 133a may generally correspond to the thickness of the hook parts 21 In addition, the second locking protrusions 136a, 136b can be configured so that they are elastically movable in and out with respect to the adapter 130. With this spruce in one embodiment, each side wall portion 131, 132 has an elastically curving clamping plate 131a, 132a. The second locking protrusions 136a, 136b are formed on opposite sides of the clamping plates 131a, 132a, respectively.

In the shown embodiment, the clamping plates 131a, 132a are formed, for example, by parts with slots of the side wall parts 131, 132 adjacent to their upper edges parallel to the upper edges. In addition, cutouts 131b, 132b are formed in the end parts of the base of the clamping plates 131a, 132a, thereby facilitating the bending of the clamping plates 131a, 132a. The stepped portions 131h, 132h are formed at the front free ends of the clamping plates 131a, 132a. The stepped parts are configured to come into contact with the support protrusions 144a, 144b of the coating 140.

The second locking device may also include a component to complement the locking operation between the connecting device 100 and the wiper arm 2 by restricting the outward movement of the second locking protrusions 136a, 136b from the side wall parts 131, 132 when the second connecting component 20 is locked relative to the side wall parts 131, 132 In one embodiment of the invention, the component can be used on the cover 140 to perform an additional function when the cover 140 is connected to the adapter 130. In paragraph It seemed component embodiment of the invention includes a pair of support arms 144a, 144b, formed on the inner surfaces of the side plates 141a, 141b cover 140. The distance between the supporting protrusions 144a, 144b is slightly larger than the distance between the stepped portions 131h, 132h. The support protrusions 144a, 144b are configured so that when the cover 140 is connected to the adapter 130, they are close to the stepped parts 131h, 132h or compress the stepped parts 13lh, 132h slightly. Thus, when the cover 140 is fully rotated and locked relative to the adapter 140, the support protrusions 144a, 144b prevent the clamping plates 131a, 132a from bending outward from the side wall portions 131, 132. Accordingly, when the hook portion 21 of the second connecting component 20 is locked while being seated between by the second locking protrusions 136a, 136b and the first transverse connection 133a, a strong locking can be obtained between the hook portion 21 and the adapter 130 by means of the supporting protrusions 144a, 144b.

In a first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the third locking device may include the following: guides 137a, 137b slidingly sliding between the side plates 32a, 32b of the third connecting component 30 and inserted therein; retaining walls 131e, 132e arranged so that they come into contact with the front ends of the side plates 32a, 32b; and a locking protrusion 137e elastically lockable in the hole 31a of the upper plate 31. In the shown embodiment, the guides 137a, 137b protrude from the lower edges of the side wall portions 131, 132 in the length direction, respectively. In addition, the third locking device may include locking parts 137c, 137d to limit the insertion of the adapter 130 into the third connecting component 30 by coming into contact with the locking parts 33a, 33b located on the lower edges of the side plates 32a, 32b of the third connecting component 30. The locking parts 137c, 137d have a length that is less than the length of the guides 137a, 137b. The locking parts 137c, 137d protrude outward from the rails 137a, 137b below the rails. A locking protrusion 137e may be used on the rear side of the side wall portions 131, 132. In the shown embodiment, the locking protrusion 137e is located on the free end of the elastic cantilever strip 137f, which extends backward from the second transverse connection 133b. Since the bar 137f can elastically bend up and down from the second lateral joint 133b, the locking protrusion 137e can be elastically locked in the hole 31a. The elastic bar 137f is positioned so that when the front ends of the side plates 32a, 32b of the third connecting component 30 come into contact with the retaining walls 131e, 132e, the locking protrusion 137e can be locked in the hole 31a. By unlocking the adapter 130 and the third connecting component 30, when the locking protrusion 137e is pressed down and then released from the cutout 31a, the connecting device 100 can be separated from the third connecting component 30.

In a first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the fourth locking device may include: a hinge axis 123 to which a side pin 41 of the fourth connecting component 40 can pivotally engage; and a component with which the clamping branch 42 of the fourth connecting component 40 may snap into engagement. In the shown embodiment, the component is the outer surface of the side wall portion 132. The distance between the outer surfaces of the side wall portions 131, 132 is set so that the clamp branch 42 can snap onto the outer surface of the side wall portion 132.

On Fig and 24 shows the locking operation between the connecting device 100 and the wiper arm 1 having a first connecting component 10 at its distal end. With reference to FIGS. 1, 23 and 24, a typical example of the connection between the connecting device 100 and the wiper arm 1 will be described in detail.

When the cover 140 is turned forward from the adapter 130, the hinge protrusions 135c, 135d of the adapter 130 are inserted into the corresponding concave parts 14a, 14b of the first connecting component 10. When the hinge protrusions 135c, 135d come into contact with the concave parts 14a, 14b, the adapter 130 (and flat the wiper blade 9 with an adapter 130) mounted on it can be rotated to the first connecting component 10 around the hinge tabs 135a, 135b. When it is fully rotated, the tab 13 is located between the front sides of the side wall parts 131, 132 (in particular, the front sides including the front end parts of the clamping plates 131a, 132a) and the upper plate 11 comes into contact with the upper edges of the side wall parts 131, 132 Then, the cover 140 is rotated back to the adapter 130 until the locking protrusions 142a, 142b engage with the locking plates 131d, 132d. The coating 140 can be locked relative to the adapter 130 due to engagement between the locking protrusions and the locking plates. Then, the lower surface of the upper plate 141c of the coating 140 is partially placed in contact with the upper surface of the upper plate 11 of the first connecting component 10. In addition, the inner surfaces of the side plates 141a, 141b of the coating 140 are partially placed against the outer surface of the side plates 12a, 12b of the first connecting component 10 s a small gap. Thus, the adapter 130 is held on the first connecting component 10 and is blocked relative to it. Furthermore, since the lower edges of the side plates 141a, 141b of the cover 140 are fixed between the cover holding protrusions 131f, 132f and the side wall portions 131, 132 after locking between the cover 140 and the adapter 130, the adapter 130 can be prevented from vibrating in the transverse direction relative to the first connecting component 10. As described above, the flat wiper blade 9 can be connected to the wiper arm 1 with a first connecting component 10 at its distal end so that the adapter 130 is attached to the first connecting component 10 using a positioning device of a first locking device (e.g., hinge tabs 135c, 135d) on the rear end side and with a cover 140 and a cover locking device (e.g., locking tabs 142a, 142b and locking plates 131d, 132d ) on the front end side.

On Fig and 26 shows the locking operation between the connecting device 100 and the wiper arm 1 'using the first connecting component 10' at its distal end.

When the cover 140 is rotated forward from the adapter 130, the hinge tabs 135c, 135d of the adapter 130 are inserted into the respective concave portions 14a ', 14b' of the first connecting component 10 '. Then, the wiper blade 9 with the adapter 130 mounted thereon is rotated to the first connecting component 10 ', and the adapter 130 and the first connecting component 10' come into contact with each other in their respective parts. After that, the coating 140 is turned back to the adapter 130, thereby completing the locking operation. The connecting device 100 can be locked relative to the wiper arm 1 'having a first connecting component 10', in the same way as having a first connecting component 10. When the locking operation is completed, the locking protrusion 137e can be inserted into the slot 11a 'of the first connecting component 10 '.

On Fig and 28 shows the locking operation between the connecting device 100 and the wiper arm 2 having a second connecting component 20 at its distal end.

When the cover 140 is rotated forward from the adapter 130, the elongated portion 22 of the second connecting component is inserted inside the adapter 130 and between the clamping bars 131a, 132a. When inserted, the clamping bars 131a, 132a are bent outward when the hook portion 21 and the second locking tabs 136a, 136b come into contact with each other. Also, when the hook portion 21 extends the second locking protrusions 136a, 136b, the clamp bars return and thus the second locking protrusions 136a, 136b engage with the outer surface 21a of the hook portion 21. At this point, the inner surface 21b of the hook portion 21 is placed in contact with the front surface of the first transverse connection 133a, while the elongated portion 22 is under the first transverse connection 133a and the hinge axis 123.

When the adapter 130 is locked relative to the hook portion 21 by a second locking device (e.g., clamping bars 131a, 132a and second locking protrusions 136a, 136b), the cover 140 is returned to the adapter 130 and closed thereon. Then, when the locking protrusions 142a, 142b engage with the locking strips 131d, 132d, the supporting protrusions 144a, 144b are located near the stepped parts 131h, 132h for holding the clamping bars 131a, 132a. This completes the locking operation.

On Fig and 30 shows the locking operation between the connecting device 100 and the wiper arm 3 having a third connecting component 30 at its distal end.

As shown in FIG. 29, an adapter 130 mounted on a flat wiper blade 9 is inserted into the third connecting component 30 from the rear end side of the adapter 130. The adapter 130 is inserted into the third connecting component 30, with the slide rails 137a, 137b coming into contact with the inner surfaces of the side plates 32a, 32b, respectively. The landing locking is completed when the front ends of the side plates 32a, 32b come into contact with the locking walls 131e, 132e, the locking parts 33a, 33b come into contact with the locking parts 137c, 137d of the guides 137a, 137b and the locking protrusion 137e is locked in the hole 31a of the upper the plate 31. Since the locking protrusion 137e is locked in the hole 31a of the upper plate 31, the separation of the third connecting component 30 and the adapter 130 can be prevented.

On Fig and 32 shows the locking operation between the connecting device 100 and the wiper arm 4 having a fourth connecting component 40 at its distal end.

As shown in FIG. 31, a flat wiper blade 9 with an adapter 130 mounted thereon is connected to the wiper arm 4 so that the side pin 41 is inserted into the hinge axis 123. This installation is completed when the portion of the fourth connecting component 40 adjacent to the side pin 41 comes into contact with the outer surface of the side wall portion 131. When the side pin 41 is inserted into the hinge axis 123, the adapter 130 (and the wiper blade 9) can rotate around the lateral pin 41. Then, the adapter 130 is rotated to the wiper arm 4 so that the locking section 42a is brought into contact with the upper edges of the side wall portions 131, 132. Then, the snap-on section 42b is engaged by nodding to the outer surface of the side wall portions 132. As shown in FIG. 32, when the side pin 41 is inserted into the hinge axis 123 and the latching section 42b resiliently engages with the outer surface of the side wall portion 132, the connecting device 100 and the fourth connecting component 40 are locked relative to each other through fit and snap fit.

With reference to FIGS. 33-56, a connecting device according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

A connecting device 200 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention is configured such that it is connected to all connecting components 10, 10 ', 20, 30, 40, 50 of the wiper arms 1, 1', 2, 3, 4, 5 of the wiper shown in FIG. .1-6. Thus, the connecting device 200 according to this exemplary embodiment of the invention further includes a fifth locking device adapted for the fifth connecting component of the wiper arm 5 in addition to the first to fourth locking devices.

As shown in FIG. 33, the connecting device 200 may include the following: a connector 210 connected to a wiper blade 9 ′ along it; a bracket 220 snap mounted on the connector 210; an adapter 230 mounted on an arm 220; and a cover 240 pivotally connected to the front end of the adapter 230.

The wiper blade 9 'may include a cleaning strip 9a' and a frame 9b 'for securing and holding the cleaning strip 9a'. The frame 9b 'is configured so that it is substantially linear, as shown in FIG.

On Fig shows a perspective view of the connector. On Fig shows a side view of the connector. The connector 210 may be connected to the wiper blade 9 ′ to connect the wiper blade 9 ′ to the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, 5. In particular, the connector 210 can be located in the middle of the frame 9b 'and can be attached to the frame 9b', for example, by means of a fixed fit.

As shown in FIGS. 33-35, in one embodiment, the connector 210 may include: a connector housing 211 having a generally U-shaped cross section; the frame holding tabs 212 for holding the frame 9b 'and the snap component 213 for snap engagement with the bracket 220.

The connector housing 211 has a frame holding support 211a, 211b at respective lateral edges. The carcass holding tabs 212 retreat into the connector housing 211 from the lower edges of the carcass holding supports 211a, 211b. The frame 9b 'is held fixedly supported by the frame holding supports 211a, 211b and the frame holding protrusions 212. In other words, the connector 210 and the frame 9b' can be connected to each other by fitting the frame 9b 'between the frame holding supports 211a, 211b below the lower surface of the housing 211 connectors at one end of the chassis 9b '. The connecting device 200 may include a component to complement the fixed fit of the chassis 9b '. To this end, in the shown embodiment, cutouts 214a are formed on both sides of the connector housing 211. The pressure tabs 221e of the bracket 220, which will be described later, are inserted into the cutouts 213a. Once inserted, the pressure protrusions 221e protrude more inwardly than the frame holding supports 211a, 211b to come into contact with both side edges of the frame 9b '. Snap-on components 213 can be used on both lateral edges on the upper surface of the connector housing 211. The snap-in components 213 may be in the form of a tooth or hook protruding up and out from the connector housing 211. In the shown embodiment, the carcass holding protrusions 212 and snap-in components 213 are arranged in pairs on respective side edges of the connector housing 211. Another design may include more than two retaining frame protrusions and snap components. The connector housing 211 has a groove or recess 211c that is concave upward in its lower surface. Such a groove or recess 211c serves as a space into which a part of the cleaning strip 9a ′ located on the frame 9b ′ can be inserted.

36 is a perspective view showing the bracket 220. The bracket 220 may be located on the connector 210 and may be mounted on it by snap engagement.

In one embodiment, the bracket 220 may include the following: a base 221 configured to substantially close the connector 210; a pair of vertical wall parts 222a, 222b vertically standing on the base 221; the hinge axis 223 located on the upper side of the vertical wall portions 222a, 222b; and support cutouts 224a, 224b formed in respective vertical wall portions 222a, 222b near the hinge axis 223.

The hinge axis 223 can serve as the swing axis of the wiper blade assembly 9 and the wiper arm 1, 1 ', 2, 3, 4, 5. In the shown embodiment, the hinge axis 223 is located on the upper side of the vertical wall portions 222a, 222b with an orientation substantially perpendicular to the length direction of the chassis 9b ′. The hinge axis 223 may be hollow to form an opening 223a passing through it. The hinge axis 223 is open at its one end 223b and closed at its opposite end 223c. The hinge hole 223 may be involved in connecting the wiper blade 9 to the wiper arm 4 having a fourth connecting component 40 at its distal end. Both lateral ends of the hinge axis 223 protrude slightly outward from the vertical wall portions 222a, 222b. Each of the two lateral ends of the hinge axis 223 has an inclined portion 223d that is inclined inward to facilitate installation of the adapter 230.

On Fig depicts a perspective view showing the inner side of the bracket. On Fig shows the node of the connector and the bracket.

36-38, the bracket 220 may have an installation component for positioning the bracket 220 on the connector 210 when the bracket 220 is connected to the connector 210. In one embodiment of the installation component, undercuts 221 are formed in the middle of both side edges of the base 211. Undercuts 221 are configured to match the mating protrusions 215a, 215b located on both side edges of the connector housing 211. In addition, a groove or recess 221c extending in the length direction of the base 221 is formed on the lower side of the base 211. The recess 221c coincides with the groove or recess 211c of the connector body 211 in shape or configuration. The recess 221c serves as a space into which a part of the cleaning strip 9a ′ located on the frame 9b ′ can be inserted. The snap-cuts 225 for snap-engagement of the snap-fit components 213 of the connector 210 are formed on both sides relative to the cuts 221a. Thus, the latching components 213 of the connector 210 snap into engagement with the latching holes 225, thereby mounting the bracket 220 on the connector 210. The mating protrusions 215a, 215b and undercuts 221a are arranged so that when the bracket 220 is mounted on the connector 210, the lower surfaces of the base 221 and connector bodies 211 are substantially flush with each other.

The support cutouts 224a, 224b are cut out at the upper edges of the vertical wall portions 222a, 222b in a generally semicircular shape, as shown in the illustrated embodiment. The finger 51 of the fifth connecting component 50 can be held in the support cutouts 224a, 224b. In some embodiments, if portions of the vertical wall portions 222a, 222b behind the hinge axis 123 are lowered, support cutouts may be omitted.

On Fig shows a perspective view of the adapter. 40 is a perspective view showing the inside of the adapter. On Fig shows a top view of the adapter. On Fig shows a side view of the adapter.

As shown in FIGS. 39-42, in one embodiment, the adapter 230 may include the following: a pair of side wall portions 231, 232; and first to fourth lateral joints 233a, 233b, 233c, 233d connecting the side wall portions 231, 232 to each other. A section of the bracket 220, including the hinge axis 223, may be located between the side wall portions 231, 232. In addition, a protruding portion 221d located on the front side of the base 221 of the bracket 220 may be between the front sides of the side wall portions 231, 232. Fourth transverse connections 233d, which may have a curved U-shape, may be located between the rear sides of the side wall portions 231, 232. If the adapter 230 is mounted on the bracket 220, the protruding portion 221d and the fourth transverse joint Adjustment 233d can prevent the adapter 230 from vibrating in the transverse direction relative to the hinge axis 223.

The mounting holes 234a, 234b are formed through the side wall portions 231, 232, respectively. Both lateral ends 223b, 223c of the hinge axis 223 can be fitted into the mounting holes 234a, 234b, respectively. The distance between the inner surfaces of the side wall portions 231, 232 is slightly larger than the distance between the outer surfaces of the vertical wall portions 222a, 222b. Furthermore, the distance between the inner surfaces of the side wall portions 231, 232 is set so that the tongue 13, 13 ′ of the first connecting component 10, 10 ′ and the hook-shaped portion 21 of the second connecting component 20 can be inserted sufficiently between the side wall parts 231, 232. When the adapter 230 is mounted on the bracket 220, the hinge axis 223 is brought into contact with the lower edges of the side wall parts 231, 232 by its inclined parts 223d of both of its side ends. When the adapter 230 is pressed against the bracket 220, both side ends of the hinge axis 223 enter the mounting holes 234a, 234b, while the side wall parts 231 232 are elastically bent or deformed outward with respect to the adapter 230. Then, if the side ends of the hinge axis 223 are fully inserted into the mounting holes 234a, 234b, the side wall portions 231, 232 resiliently return. Thus, the lateral ends of the hinge axis 223 and their corresponding mounting holes 234a, 234b mate with each other. When the adapter 230 is completely mounted on the bracket 220, the outer surfaces of the side wall portion 231, 232 and the outer edges of both side ends of the hinge axis 223 are substantially flush with each other.

As described above, the adapter 230 can be mounted on the bracket 220, being pressed against the bracket 220, and engages in a snap engagement. The hinge axis 223 is oriented perpendicular to the frame 9b ', and the wiper arms 1, 1', 2, 3, 4, 5 are connected to the adapter 230 parallel to the frame 9b. Thus, when the wiper blade 9 is connected to the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, both of them can rotate relatively clockwise or counterclockwise around the hinge axis 223 within a certain angular range. Accordingly, when the wiper blade 9 moves on the surface of the windshield with the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, 5, the wiper blade 9 can be placed in close contact with the surface of the windshield according to the curvature of the windshield.

A first transverse connection 233 is located in front of the mounting holes 234a, 234b. The front surface of the first transverse joint 233a is rounded so that the inner surface 21b of the hook portion 21 of the second connecting component 20 can be placed on it. The second lateral connection 233b is located behind the mounting holes 234a, 234b. A third lateral connection 233c is located at the front ends of the side wall portions 231, 232. Hinge holes 231c, 232c for pivoting the cover 240, which will be described later, are made in the respective lateral wall portions 231, 232. A fourth transverse connection 233d is located at the rear ends of the side wall parts 231c, 232c and has a generally U-shaped cross section. Thus, gaps or spaces are formed between the side surfaces of the fourth lateral connection 233d and the inner surfaces of the side wall parts 231, 232. The rear parts of the vertical wall parts 222a, 222b can be inserted into these spaces or spaces when the adapter 230 is mounted on the bracket 220.

In a second typical embodiment of the invention, the first locking device may include the following: first locking protrusions 235a, 235b elastically engaged with the tongue 13, 13 'of the first connecting component 10, 10'; and a hinge protrusion 235c configured to fit the concave portion 14a, 14b, 14a ', 14b' of the first connecting component 10, 10 '.

The first locking protrusions 235a, 235b are wedge-shaped. The first locking protrusions 235a, 235b protrude on the inner surfaces of the side wall portions 231, 232 at their upper edges. The first locking protrusions 235a, 235b are located between the first transverse connection 233a and the third transverse connections 233c. The sections of the side wall portions 231, 232 between the first and third lateral joints 133a and 133c are configured so that they are elastically bent or deformed. Thus, the first locking protrusions 235a, 235b can elastically move in and out relative to the adapter 130. At the rear end of the side wall portion 232, an articulated protrusion 235c is formed. The hinge protrusion 235c is configured so that it can be inserted into the concave portion 14b, 14b ′ formed at the rear end of the side plates 12b, 12b ′ of the first connecting component 10, 10 ′. The articulated protrusions 235c may be in the form of a triangle with a rounded angle. In the shown embodiment, while the hinge protrusion 235c is formed in only the side wall portion 232, another hinge protrusion can be applied at the rear end of the side wall part 231.

In a second typical embodiment of the invention, the second locking device may include a pair of second locking protrusions 236a, 236b located on the inner surfaces of the side wall portions 231, 232 adjacent to the first transverse joints 233a.

The second locking protrusions 236a, 236b are wedge-shaped so that the hook-shaped portion 21 of the second connecting component 21 can be easily inserted between the second locking protrusions. The inclined surfaces of the second locking protrusions are facing forward with respect to the adapter 230, while their engaging surfaces are facing back with respect to the adapter 230. The gap between the engaging surfaces of the second locking protrusions 236a, 236b and the front surface of the first transverse connection 233a may generally correspond to the thickness of the hook-shaped parts 21. In addition, the second locking protrusions 236a, 236b can be configured with elastic mobility in and out relative to the adapter 230. With this pour in one embodiment, each side wall portion 231, 232 has an elastically curving clamping plate 231a, 232a. The second locking protrusions 236a, 236b are formed on opposite sides of the clamping plates 231a, 232a, respectively.

In the shown embodiment, the clamping plates 231a, 232a are formed, for example, by parts with slots of the side wall parts 231, 232 adjacent to their upper edges. In addition, cutouts 231b, 232b are formed near the supporting parts of the clamping plates 23la, 232a, thereby allowing easier clamping of the clamping plates 23la, 232a. At the front free ends of the clamping plates 231a, 232a, stepped portions 231f, 232f are formed. The stepped parts may come into contact with the support plates 244a, 244b of the coating 240.

The inner side of the coating is shown in Fig. 43. On Fig shows a side view of the coating. On Fig shows the site of the connector, bracket, adapter and cover.

The coating 240 serves to facilitate the locking operations of the first and second connecting components 10, 10 ′, 20. In addition, the coating 240 serves to partially cover or cover the distal end of the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2 and adapter 230. As shown in FIG. 43 and 44, coating 240 is generally U-shaped. The coating 240 includes an upper plate 241c located above the upper edges of the side wall portions 231, 232, and a pair of side plates 241a, 241b facing the side wall portions 231, 232, respectively. The pivot pins 243a, 243b for pivoting the cover 240 with the adapter 230 protrude inward from the front end of the cover 240 (i.e., from the front ends of the side plates 241a, 241b). The pivot pins 243a, 243b are seated in the pivot holes 231c, 232c located near the third lateral joint 233c. To facilitate fixed engagement, the pivot pins 243a, 243b have inclined portions on their lower sides. The coating 240 can be easily connected to the adapter 230 by contacting the pivot pins 243a, 243b with the front end of the side wall portions 231, 232 and pressing them inward relative to the adapter 230.

The connecting device 200 may include a coating locking device for locking the coating 240 on the adapter 230. In a second typical embodiment of the invention, the coating locking device includes: concave tooth sockets 242a located on the lower sides of the side plates 141a, 141c; and locking teeth 231e, 232e located on respective side wall portions 131, 132 for snapping into engagement with tooth sockets 242a when coating 240 is fully turned toward adapter 230.

The locking teeth 231e, 232e extend parallel to the respective side wall portions 231, 232 from the retaining walls 231d, 232d, which are formed on the respective side wall parts 231, 232. The locking teeth 231e, 232e are latched into engagement with the tooth sockets 242a, 242b behind the lower edges of the side of the plates 241a, 241b, thereby locking the coating 240 relative to the adapter 230. The inclined parts are formed on the lower edges of the side plates 241a, 241b in alignment with the tooth sockets 242a, thereby facilitating engagement with the tooth sockets 242a at. The engagement position between the tooth sockets 242a and the locking teeth 231e, 232e is set so that the upper plate 11, 11 ′ of the first connecting component 10, 10 ′ or the rear section of the second connecting component 20 can be inserted between the lower surface of the upper plate 241a of the coating 240 and the upper edges of the side wall parts 231, 232 with a small gap or no gap at all.

The coating 240 may further include a component to complement the locking operation between the connecting device 200 and the wiper arm 1, 1 ′, 2 by restricting the outward movement of the first locking protrusions 235a, 235b or the second locking protrusions 236a, 236b from the side wall portions 231, 232 when the first connecting component 10, 10 ′ or the second connecting component 20 is blocked relative to the side wall portion 231, 232. In one embodiment of the invention, the component can be used in the coating 240 to perform ext function when the cover 240 is connected to the adapter 230. In the shown embodiment, the component includes a pair of support plates 244a, 244b formed on the inner surfaces of the side plates 241a, 241b of the cover 240, respectively. The distance between the support plates 244a, 244b is slightly larger than the distance between the outer surfaces of the sections of the side wall parts 231, 232 having the first locking protrusions 235a, 235b, and the distance between the stepped parts 231f, 232f. The support plates 244a, 244b are configured so that when the cover 240 is connected to the adapter 230, they are placed on all stepped parts 231g, 232g of the clamping plates 231a, 232a and on the outer surfaces of the side wall parts 231, 232 on which the first locking protrusions 235a are formed , 235b. In addition, the cover 240 may include abutment protrusions on respective inner surfaces of the side plates 241a, 241b, which may be opposed to the side plates 12a, 2b, 12a ', 12b' of the first connecting component when the cover 230 is locked on the adapter 230.

In a second typical embodiment of the invention, the third locking device may include the following: guides 237a, 237b sliding to slide between the side plates 32a, 32b of the third connecting component 30 and mounted on it; retaining walls 231d, 232d arranged to come into contact with the front ends of the side plates 32a, 32b; and a locking lever 237e elastically lockable relative to the rear end of the side plate 32b.

In the shown embodiment, the guides 237a, 237b protrude from the lower edges of the side wall portions 231, 232 in the length direction, respectively. In addition, the third locking device includes locking parts 237c, 237d for restricting the insertion of the adapter 230 into the third connecting component 30, being in contact with the locking parts 33a, 33b located on the lower edges of the side plates 32a, 32b of the third connecting component 30. The locking parts 237c , 237d have a length that is less than the length of the guides 237a, 237b. The locking parts 237c, 237d protrude outward from the rails 237a, 237b below the rails. The locking lever 237e extends outward from the rear end of the side wall portion 232. The locking lever 237e can elastically bend outward from the side wall portion 232. To this end, the rear end portion of the side wall portion 232 is horizontally cut below the hinge protrusion 235c. The locking lever 237e is positioned so that when the adapter 230 is fully inserted into the third connecting component 30, its front end is engaged by snap engagement with the rear end of the side plate 32b. By disconnecting the adapter 230 and the third connecting component 30, when the locking lever 237e is pressed down and then disconnected from the rear end 32d of the side plate, the connecting device 200 can be separated from the third connecting component 30.

In a second typical embodiment of the invention, the fourth locking device may include the following: a hinge axis 223 into which a side pin 41 of the fourth connecting component 40 can be pivotally mounted; and a component with which the snap branch 42 of the fourth connecting component 40 can be latched into contact. In the shown embodiment, the component is the outer surface of the side wall portion 232. The distance between the outer surfaces of the side wall portions 231, 232 is set so that the clamp branch 42 may snap onto the outer surface of the side wall portion 232.

A connecting device 200 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a fifth locking device located in the adapter for performing a locking operation by inserting and snapping between the adapter 230 and the fifth connecting component 50. In one embodiment of the invention, the fifth locking device may include the following: supporting holes 238a, 238b for holding the finger 51 of the fifth connecting component and a locking portion 238c elastically engaged with the surrounding groove 52 of the fifth connecting component.

In the shown embodiment, the support holes 238a, 238b are respectively formed through the side wall portions 231, 232 near the mounting holes 234a, 234b. The locking part 238c is located on the locking strip 238d, as a unit formed with a second transverse connection 233b at one end thereof. The opposite end of the locking strip 238d is the free end, so that the locking strip 238d can elastically move relative to the second transverse joints 233b. The locking portion 238c includes a rounded contact surface corresponding to the peripheral shape of the surrounding groove 52. In addition, the locking portion 238c is formed on the locking strip 238d so that it is within the cylindrical configuration defined by the supporting holes 238a, 238b in the free state of the locking strip 238d. With the configuration described above, the finger 51 of the fifth connecting component 50 enters the adapter 230 through the support hole 238a of the side wall part 231 and can protrude outward from the support hole 238b of the side wall part 232. When the finger 51 passes through the support holes 238a and 238b one after the other, the lock the bar 238d elastically bends upward. If the annular groove 52 reaches the locking bar 238d, the locking portion 238c elastically engages with the annular groove 52. When the adapter 230 and the fifth connecting component are disconnected, if the locking bar 238d is bent upward and disengaged from the surrounding groove 52, the pin 51 may be disconnected from the side wall parts 231, 232.

Figures 46-48 show a locking operation between the connecting device 200 and the wiper arm 1 having a first connecting component 10 at its distal end. With reference to FIGS. 33 and 46-48, a typical example of the connection between the wiper blade 9 ′ and the wiper arm 1 will be described in detail.

When the cover 240 is turned forward from the adapter 230, the hinge protrusion 235c of the adapter 230 is inserted into the corresponding concave portion 14b of the first connecting component 10. When the hinge protrusion 235c comes into contact with the concave part 14b, the adapter 230 (and the wiper blade 9 ′ mounted on it adapter 230) can be rotated to the first connecting component 10 around the hinge protrusion 235c. When it is fully rotated, the tab 13 is locked between the first locking protrusions 235a, 235b on the front sides of the side wall portions 231, 232, while the upper plate 11 comes into contact with the upper edges of the side wall portions 231, 232. Then, the coating 240 is turned back to the adapter 230 until the locking teeth 231e, 232e engage with the tooth sockets 242a.

If the cover 240 is locked on the adapter 230, the lower surface of the upper plate 241c of the coating 240 is partially placed in contact with the upper surface of the upper plate 21 of the first connecting component 10. Also, the support plates 244a, 244b are located near the outer surfaces of the side wall portions 231, 232 with the first locking protrusions 235a, 235b, thereby preventing the first locking protrusions 235a, 235b from moving outward. As described above, the flat wiper blade 9 ′ can be connected to the wiper arm 1 having a first connecting component 10, so that the adapter 230 is attached to the first connecting component 10 by a hinge protrusion 235c on the side of its rear end and is locked relative to the first connecting component 10 using the first locking protrusions 235a, 235b on the side of its front end.

Figures 49-51 show a locking operation between the connecting device 200 and the wiper arm 1 'having a first connecting component 10' at its distal end.

When the cover 240 is rotated forward from the adapter 230, the hinge protrusion 235c is inserted into the corresponding concave portion 14b ′ of the first connecting component 10 ′. Then, the wiper blade 9 'with the adapter 230 mounted thereon is rotated to the first connecting component 10', and the adapter 230 and the first connecting component 10 'come into contact with each other with their respective parts. After that, the coating 240 is returned to the adapter 230, thereby completing the locking operation. The connecting device 200 may be locked relative to the wiper arm 1 'having a first connecting component 10', in the same manner as with the first connecting component 10.

On Fig and 53 shows the locking operation between the connecting device 200 and the wiper arm 2 having a second connecting component 20 at its distal end.

When the cover 240 is rotated forward from the adapter 230, the elongated portion 22 of the second connecting component is inserted inside the adapter 230 between the clamping bars 231a, 232a. When inserted, the clamping plates 231a, 232a are bent outward when the hook portion 21 and the second locking tabs 236a, 236b come into contact with each other. Also, when the hook portion 21 extends the second locking protrusions 236a, 236b, the clamping bars return. Thus, the second locking protrusions 236a, 236b engage with the outer surface 21a of the hook portion 21. At this point, the inner surface 21b of the hook portion 21 is in contact with the front surface of the first transverse connection 233a, while the elongated portion 22 is under the first transverse connection 233 and pivot pin 223.

When the adapter 230 is locked relative to the hook portion 21 with a second locking device (e.g., clamping bars 231a, 232a and second locking tabs 236a, 236b), the cover 240 is returned to the adapter 230 and closed on it. Then, when the locking teeth 231e, 222e engage with the tooth sockets 242a, the support plates 244a, 244b are located near the stepped parts 231f, 232f to hold the clamping plates 231a, 232a. This completes the locking operation.

On Fig and 55 shows the locking operation between the connecting device 200 and the wiper arm 3 having a third connecting component 30 at its distal end.

As shown in FIG. 54, an adapter 230 mounted on a wiper blade 9 ′ is inserted into the third connecting component 30 from the rear end side of the adapter 230. The adapter 230 is installed in the third connecting component 30 when the slide rails 237a, 237b come into contact with the inner surfaces of the side plates 32a, 32b, respectively. The locking operation is completed when the front ends of the side plates 32a, 32b come into contact with the locking walls 231d, 232d and the locking parts 33a, 33b come into contact with the locking parts 237c, 237d of the guides 237a, 237b, and the locking lever 237e is locked relative to the rear end of the side plates 32b. Since the locking lever 237e engages with the rear end of the side plate 32b, separation of the third connecting component 30 and the adapter 230 can be prevented.

Figures 56 and 57 show a locking operation between the connecting device 200 and the wiper arm 4 having a fourth connecting component 40 at its distal end.

As shown in FIG. 56, a flat wiper blade 9 ′ with an adapter 230 mounted thereon is connected to the wiper arm 4 so that the side pin 41 is mounted on the hinge axis 223. This installation is completed when the part of the fourth connecting component 40 adjacent to the side pin 41 makes contact with the outer surface of the side wall portion 231. When the side pin 41 is inserted in the hinge axis 223, the adapter 230 (and the wiper blade 9 ') can rotate around the lateral pin 41. Then, the adapter 230 is turned to the wiper arm 4 so that the locking section 42a of the clamping branch 42 is brought into contact with the upper edges of the side wall portions 231, 232. Then, the snap section 42b snap into engagement with the outer surface of the side wall portions 232. As shown in FIG. 57, when the side pin 41 is mounted in the hinge axis 223 and the snap section 42b is resiliently engaged with the outer surface of the side wall portion 232, the connecting device 200 and the fourth connecting component 40 are locked relative to each other by snap engagement and seating.

On Fig shows the locking operation between the connecting device 200 and the wiper arm 5 having a fifth connecting component 50 at its distal end.

A flat wiper blade 9 'with an adapter 230 mounted thereon is connected to the wiper arm 5 so that the pin 51 is inserted one after the other into the support holes 238a, 238b. When the finger 51 is inserted, the locking strip 238d of the fifth locking device elastically bends upward. If the insertion of the finger 51 is completed, the blocking portion 238c is elastically engaged with the annular groove 52 by means of a locking strip 238d. Due to the connection between the finger 51 and the support holes 238a, 238b and the engagement between the annular groove 52 and the locking part 238c, the connecting device 200 and the fifth connecting component are locked relative to each other by means of an insert and snap engagement.

Embodiments of the present invention may provide a device for connecting a flat wiper blade to wiper arms. A connecting device 100, 200 may connect the same wiper blade to various wiper arms configured for use with a wiper blade. In typical embodiments, the connecting device 100, 200 may include: a connector 110, 210 mounted on the frame 9b, 9b 'of a flat wiper blade 9, 9'; a bracket 120, 220 snap-mounted on the connector; and an adapter 130, 230 mounted on the bracket. The bracket may have a hinge axis 123, 223 extending perpendicular to the length direction of the chassis and have a hinge hole 123a, 223a passing through it. The adapter can be mounted on the bracket by snap-fit and fit. The adapter can be configured so that it is suitable for variously configured connecting components 10, 10 ', 20, 30, 40, 50 of the levers 1, 1', 2, 3, 4, 5 of the wiper. Accordingly, the connecting device can connect the same flat wiper blade to different wiper arms.

In one embodiment of the invention, when the adapter is locked relative to the first connecting component 10, 10 'so that it is locked relative to the first connecting component with a coating 140, 240 or the first locking protrusions 235a, 235b on the side of its front end, and it is held by the hinged protrusions 135a , 135b, 235c on the side of its rear end, the adapter and the first connecting component can be connected by a simple and strong connection. In addition, since the adapter can be connected to the wiper arm 1, 1 ′ without any force acting in the direction of movement of the wiper arm, the wiper blade 9, 9 ′ cannot be separated from the wiper arm during operation of the wiper arm.

In addition, in one embodiment of the invention, since the cover 140, 240 maintains the immobility of the second locking device after the adapter is fixed to the second connecting component 20 by the second locking device, the adapter can be firmly connected to the wiper arm 2 by the second connecting component 20 on its far end.

In addition, in one embodiment, the adapter may have a pair of side wall portions 131, 132, 231, 232. Mounting holes 134a, 134b, 234a, 234b may be provided in the side wall parts. The adapter is mounted on the bracket in such a way that both lateral ends of the hinge axis are installed in the mounting holes, thus providing smooth pivoting movement and a simple and quick connection between the bracket and the adapter.

Although embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments of their construction, it should be understood that many other modifications and variations of construction may be contemplated by those skilled in the art that will be consistent with the spirit and scope of the principles of this invention. More specifically, many variations and modifications are possible in components and / or in a combination arrangement within the scope of the description, drawings and appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications of components and / or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (10)

1. A device (200) for removably connecting a flat wiper blade (9, 9 ′) to a wiper arm (1, 1 ′, 2, 3, 4, 5), comprising one of the following: first connecting component (10, 10 ′) including a tongue (13, 13 ') and a pair of concave parts (14a, 14b, 14a', 14b '); a second connecting component (20) including a hook portion (21); a third connecting component (30), including a top plate (31) and a pair of side plates (32a, 32b); a fourth connecting component (40), including a side pin (41) and a clamping branch (42); and a fifth connecting component (50), including a finger (51) and an annular groove (52) formed in the finger, the device comprising:
a connector (210) connected to the frame (9b, 9b ') of the wiper blade;
an arm (220) mounted on the connector and containing a pair of spaced vertical wall parts (222a, 222b) and a hinge axis (223) located on the top of the vertical wall parts and having a hinge hole (223a) passing through it; and
an adapter (230), including: a pair of side wall parts (231, 232) having mounting holes passing through them (234a, 234b); a first transverse connection (233a) connecting the side wall portions to each other and located in front of the mounting holes; and a second transverse connection (233b) connecting the side wall portions to each other and located rear of the mounting holes, the adapter being pivotally mounted on the bracket when both ends of the hinge axis are inserted into the mounting holes,
wherein the adapter includes:
a first locking device (235a, 235b, 235c) for positioning the concave portion of the first connecting component relative to the side wall portion and locking the tongue of the first connecting component relative to the side wall portions;
a second locking device (231a, 232a, 236a, 236b) for locking the hook-shaped part of the second connecting component between the side wall parts against the first transverse connection; guides (237a, 237b) formed on the outer surfaces of the side wall parts and configured to install a third connecting component between the side plates;
a locking lever (237e) extending from the rear end of one of the side wall parts and configured to resiliently engage with the rear end of one of the side plates of the third connecting component; and
a fifth locking device (238a, 238b, 238c) for securing the finger of the fifth connecting component across the side wall parts and locking the annular groove of the fifth connecting component relative to the side wall parts,
wherein the lateral pin of the fourth connecting component is adapted to be inserted into the hinge hole and rotated therein. 2. The device according to claim 1, in which the first locking device includes:
first locking protrusions (235a, 235b) formed on opposite surfaces of the side wall portions; and
an articulated protrusion (235c) formed at the rear end of one of the side wall parts,
in this case, when the hinge protrusion is installed in the concave part (14b, 14b ') of the first connecting component, and the adapter is then turned to the first connecting component, the tongue is locked relative to the first locking protrusions. 3. The device according to claim 2, in which the second locking device includes second locking protrusions (236a, 236b) formed on opposite inner surfaces of the side wall portions near the first transverse connection. 4. The device according to claim 3, in which each of the side walls includes a clamping plate (231 a, 232a) formed by making a cut in the upper part of the side wall part,
moreover, the second locking protrusions are formed on opposite sides of the clamping plates,
however, when the inner surface (21b) of the hook-shaped portion of the second connecting component is placed in contact with the first transverse joint, the second locking protrusions engage with the outer surface (21a) of the hook-shaped portion by elastic deformation of the clamping plates. 5. The device according to claim 4, further comprising:
a coating (240) pivotally connected to the front ends of the side wall portions and configured to partially close the first connecting component and the second connecting component; and
a coating locking device (231e, 232e, 242a) for locking the coating relative to the adapter. 6. The device according to claim 5, in which the coating includes support plates (244a, 244b) located on its opposite inner surfaces, the support plates being located near the clamping plates and parts of the side wall parts of the first locking protrusions when the coating is locked relative to the adapter . 7. The device according to claim 1, in which the fifth locking device includes:
supporting holes (238a, 238b) made in the side wall parts near the mounting holes for holding the finger of the fifth connecting component; and
a locking component (238c, 238d) located between the side wall portion and elastically engaged with the annular groove of the fifth connecting component. 8. The device according to claim 7, in which the locking component includes:
a locking strip (238d) extending from the second lateral connection; and
a locking part (238c) located on the locking bar (238d) and engaged with the annular groove. 9. The device according to claim 1, in which the connector includes a pair of retaining frame supports (211a, 211b),
the connector and the frame are attached to each other so that the frame is located between the holding frame supports. 10. The device according to claim 1, in which the bracket further includes a protruding part (221d), protruding in such a way that it can be inserted between the side wall parts,
wherein the adapter further includes a fourth transverse connection (233d) located at the rear ends of the side wall portions and configured so that it can be inserted between the vertical wall portions of the bracket.

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